Opposition claims mass exodus from PNC/APNU, AFC will not affect electoral performance
Sod turned for new Diamond Primary School to serve 750 students
Chinese national dies at Region 1 worksite "Monkeyman" gets 4 years for B&E, larceny
Govt working to address land boundaries, illegal mining in 2 Indigenous communities
Guard on $100,000 bail after brutal attack on partner Guyana, Netherlands explore enhanced defence cooperation
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, June 7 –02:15h-03:45h and Sunday, June 8 – 02:55h-04:25h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, June 7 – `13:50h-15:20h and Sunday, June 8 –14:35h-16:05h.
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 sunshine in the afternoon. Temperatures are expected to range between 22 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 2.23 metres and 3.58 metres.
High Tide: 14:02h reaching a maximum height of 2.30 metres.
Low Tide: 07:35h and 19:50h reaching minimum heights of 0.86 metre and 0.90 metre.
“Let us rejoice, let us pray and let us give with gratitude and generosity” – Pres Ali Eid-ul-Adha 2025
As Muslims in Guyana and around the world observe Eidul-Adha today, President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has urged this festival be celebrated with gratitude.
In extending heartfelt Eid-ul-Adha greetings to all Guyanese, especially to the Islamic communities here in Guyana and in the Diaspora, the Head of State noted that this sacred occasion should cause persons to reflect not only on their intentions and efforts, but also on the quiet, guiding hand of Allah in all their affairs.
“On this magnificent occasion, let us rejoice, let us pray and let us give with gratitude and generosity. Trust the process. Trust the Planner. Trust Allah,” President Ali stated.
Eid-ul-Adha or Qurbani is called the Festival of Sacrifice Muslims observe Qurbani by slaughtering an animal – a goat, sheep, cow – to reflect Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Isma’il, at God’s command, and to commemorate a testament of God’s mercy to the faithful.
It is tradition for onethird of the meat from sacrificed animal to go to poor or vulnerable people; one-third for neighbours, associates and friends, and one-third for family use.
According to the Guyanese Leader, Eid-ulAdha is a reminder that while persons are called to act with purpose and conviction, the ultimate course of their lives is shaped by divine wisdom.
He said Muslims are agents of their choices, but Allah is the Master of all outcomes. The Holy Quran states (at 81:29) "But you cannot will unless Allah wills – Lord of the Worlds."
To this end, President Ali urges the Guyanese Islamic community to observe this important occasion, reaffirmed in the conviction that to surrender to Allah is not to give up—it is to rise above fear. For it is written in the Holy Quran (65:3). "And whoever puts their trust in Allah, then He ‘alone’ is sufficient for them. Certainly Allah achieves his Will. Allah has already set a destiny for everything.”
The Head of State went on to note that in a world often driven by the desire for control and certainty, may this Eid be a gentle reminder that true peace comes not from having all the answers, but from trusting the One who does.
“The story of Ibrahim and his devotion to Allah instructs us that Faith begins where certainty ends. Faith is what keeps us moving, keeps us believing, and keeps us trusting when everything else tells us to stop,
to reject and to doubt. It is in that spirit of absolute trust— of moving forward even when the path is unclear—that we find the true essence of Eid,” the Guyanese Leader noted.
President Ali added, “Let us therefore celebrate this
festival with gratitude, walk forward with intention, and rest in the assurance that what is meant for us will come to pass and what misses us was never ours… my wish for you is that this Eid will find you filled with peace, your heart overflowing with contentment and your journey blessed with divine clarity. May you walk the path Allah has written for you— with grace in your steps and a radiant light in your heart! Eid Mubarak!”
Isma’il (AS) was born to Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and Hajra (Hagar) in Ibrahim’s old age—a miraculous blessing after a lifetime of devotion, patience, and faith in God. His birth came after many years of longing and prayer, as Ibrahim’s wife Sarah was unable to conceive for most of their lives together. Yet through it all, Ibrahim never wavered in his trust in his Creator.
Eid-ul-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates the ultimate test of that unwavering faith. It marks the moment when God commanded Ibrahim to sacrifice his beloved son, Isma’il – a command he obeyed without hesitation. In a remarkable act of submission, both father and son prepared to carry out God's will. But just as the act was to be completed, God, in His infinite mercy, intervened. Through the angel Jibra’il (Gabriel), Ibrahim was told that his devotion had already been accepted, and a ram was provided as a substitute for the human sacrifice.
This moment established a critical message for all of humanity: that human life is sacred, and human sacrifice is strictly prohibited. It was also the origin of Qurbani – the ritual of animal sacrifice that is central to the observance of Eid-ulAdha.
Qurbani, which means "sacrifice", is performed annually by Muslims around the world as a symbolic act of obedience and devotion. A goat, sheep, or cow is sacrificed to honour Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to give up what he cherished most for the sake of God. The meat from the sacrificed animal is distributed in three equal parts: one-third is kept by the family, one-third is given to relatives and friends, and one-third is donated to the poor and vulnerable. This sharing reinforces the values of charity, compassion, and community support that lie at the heart of Islam.
Eid-ul-Adha is one of the two major Islamic festivals observed each year. The other, Eid-ul-Fitr, is celebrated at the end of the holy month of Ramadan. Eid-ul-Adha, often referred to as the “Greater Eid”, takes place during the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah and coincides with the completion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage – the fifth pillar of Islam.
As noted in Islam Now, Hajj is a sacred religious obligation for all Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake it at least once in their lifetime. Every year, millions of Muslims journey to Mecca, retracing the footsteps of Prophet Ibrahim, who, in obedience to God’s command, left his wife Hajra and son Isma’il in the desert valley of Mecca. Hajra’s desperate search for water between the hills of Safa and Marwah, and the eventual appearance of the Zamzam well, remain deeply significant parts of the Hajj rites.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) later institutionalised Hajj as a core practice of the faith, and today, those who complete the pilgrimage are honoured with the titles Hajji (for men) or Hajjah (for women). These individuals are respected within their communities for their commitment and spiritual dedication.
Locally, a prominent Guyanese Muslim explained that once the special Eid prayers and sermon are completed, the Qurbani sacrifice begins. The act must be performed with sincerity, and the meat must be shared according to Islamic tradition. Beyond the sacrifice itself, the day is marked by celebration, unity, and generosity – families gather, greetings are exchanged, and gifts are shared.
Islam, as described by Wikipedia, is an Abrahamic monotheistic faith followed by approximately 1.9 billion people globally – about 25 per cent of the world’s population. It teaches that God is merciful, all-powerful, and singular, and that humanity has been guided through a line of prophets including Ibrahim and Muhammad (peace be upon them). Muslims form the majority population in more than 50 countries around the world.
The term Islam itself derives from the Arabic root “S-L-M,” which connotes meanings such as peace, submission, and surrender. According to Quranic teachings, Islam means attaining peace – peace with God, peace within oneself, and peace with all of creation – through complete submission to the will of God. This definition is perfectly embodied in the life of Prophet Ibrahim and his acceptance of divine will, which the Festival of Sacrifice seeks to honour and remember.
As Muslims in Guyana and across the world gather to observe this sacred occasion, the management and staff of Times Media Group extend warm Eid-ul-Adha greetings to all our readers.
Eid Mubarak!
PNC cannot promise, provide or protect peace for Guyanese
Dear Editor, Young Younge’s quagmire has torpedoed a political tornado, leaving hundreds to answer many charges for unlawful behaviour. Guyana, the land of many waters and races, weather many cultures while residing in multiple communities. Engulfed in an inferno of madness, the melee fanned the flame of mayhem, to sound the call for “Mayday,” as it unfolded from the trauma at Tuschen. It was no fantasy, but a fiasco of furious fermentation as demonstrated by the rascals who chose not to rationalise but to demoralise.
The body of young Adrianna is still to be put to rest. A beauty full of life has left a dent in the nest. What a beast of a story the country had to digest. So much hearsay many had to evidently confess. Unfortunate victims now seek redress. Unanswered questions and curious queries, it’s time to address. The cabals have deflected to mislead and misrepresent, rather than reflect on mistakes and misguidance.
Mischief is certainly afoot with the Opposition acting as insurgents to the state while capitalising on a family’s misfortune. They have converted the Younge’s pain for their political gain. Like Venezuela's insane Maduro, the opposition has also added their name to his list of malfeasances. There is a sober fate as exercised by the police when they quickly pursued the organised thugs to quell the looting, the burning, the advanced threats and attacks.
From the onset of laying a foundation of division, destruction and distrust, the PNC inscribed their true DNA from the early 1950’s when Burnham initiated the separation of Indo and Afro Guyanese to create the birth of racism in this country. The 60’s saw the destruc-
tion of the infamous Wismar and Georgetown burning and looting under Burnham’s oversight. His alliance with the UF Party and eventual falling out, stemmed the root of dishonesty and materialized branches of election rigging. Setting fire to the hotel at Tuschen, the owner’s home and burning tires and other debris while blocking traffic on the road, stemmed from an influence of disrespecting and disregarding the law.
Following in Burnham’s footsteps, Hoyte crystalised the party’s evilness of “slo fya, mo fya” to announce “war break.” 28 years of PNC’s initial dictatorship followed by another 5 years of disaster, diffused the economic progress attributed to the PPP/C’s mantle-ship and harnessed a retrogressive back slide to prosperity. Granger’s adversity advanced the epitome of election fraud attempted in the clumsiest yet boldest act. Over the past month, vandalising business premises and wholesale stealing reflected the self-righteous law of the PNC to rob and relieve others of their worth.
An independent nation had to suffer the agony of migrating to greener pastures in the 70’s and onwards, as the PNC dominated a path of “hooliganism.” They were aided and abetted by the umbrella of the armed forces at that time, lending protection to lawlessness and providing the PNC under Burnham and his counterparts with security. The PNC ruined the economy, robbed the people of peace and reversed the decency of dignity. The PNC has always reverted to the use of violence without reservation, to intimidate Guyanese who are non-supporters of the Party, regardless of class, colour or composition. Organising loads of unruliness to disturb the smooth flow of traffic, disrupt the functioning of busi-
ness entities and schools and divert the attention of the government, simply confirm the deviousness of the intellectual antagonists who are politically inclined to destabilise the law of the day.
While peaceful protest is a universal law and guaranteed by the United Nation, what is not sanctioned is the false pretext of misusing the crowd to mobilise people for an ulterior motive, contrary to the original objective as depicted at the Double Day Hotel at Tuschen, the Police Station at Leonora and the Public Hospital in Georgetown. Putting motorists, passengers and people at risk in the city, at Mandella Avenue, East Bank, East Coast and West Coast Demerara by blocking roadways with fire, clearly define the true motives of distorting the facts, duping the bereaved family and deluding the public. This type of action obviously and overtly construe the mantra of PNC’s teachings. It is enshrined in their X-13 Plan!
The sour PNC has a dour track record of antagonising amicability, propagating propaganda and crowning corruption. Guyanese have always lived in fear under all the PNC’s era and agenda. They have been the thief of peace long before the kick-down door days. Tongue-twisting the orchestration of unruliness by blaming the innocent, perpetrates the darkness of their evilness. Raping the treasury, administering by mismanaging and employing prejudice, abusing their authority and using their party card as a passport for preference, quantity and qualify their negativity. Choosing to host a press conference at the ill-fated scene in Tuschen, endorses their insensitivity and insecurity.
Complicity with contradiction is construed in the consti-
tution of the PNC. Claiming that the PPP/C’s hired help were responsible for the recent waywardness and then running to defend the very accused, confirms how callous the crooked PNC can conspire to confuse and cheat. Drowning was the cause of how a life ended as jointly certified from the expert and professional summation by all the international pathologists. The Government has requested a detailed probe and has already instituted reactive measures. The PNC’s local and overseas cry, carelessly clamoring for “no justice, no peace,” premeditates a path to torment and terrorise Guyanese with trepidation.
The PNC wants to hold this country at ransom again. Guyanese were held hostage by the PNC in 2018 when the PNC refused to call an election for 18 months. In 2020, for 5 months they squatted in office after losing the General Election. In the USA, they fanned a baseless and unsuccessful argument that the Guyana Government practices apartheid and that the Afro Guyanese are being suppressed. The PNC became a laughing stock at the UN and in the US Congress. The PNC will desecrate the dead in order to deceive Guyanese. They did it with the Henry cousin’s incident and now with Adrianna’s. Genuine Guyanese sympathise with the Younge family over this tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers sincerely go out to all affected. This sentiment cannot be endorsed by the looters, arsonists, terrorists, the perpetrators of violence, the thieves and those politicians who spew vengeance and civil unrest while unabashedly defending lawlessness. Guyana needs peace, something the PNC cannot promise, provide or protect.
Yours respectfully, Jai Lall
The age-old tradition of signing shirts with messages of love, friendship, and best wishes lives on as Education Minister Priya Manickchand joined in the celebrations on Friday on the last day of CSEC 2025, signing students’ shirts at Queen’s College (Priya Manickchand photos)
CIOG President’s Eid-ul-Adha Message: A call for unity, sacrifice, and trust in Allah
As-Salaamu Alaikum WaRahmatullahiWaBarakaatuh.
Eid Mubarak! Eid Mubarak! Eid Mubarak!
All praise is due to Allah (SWT), the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate. Peace and blessings be upon our noble Prophet Muhammad (SAW), his family, his companions, and all those who follow in his footsteps. As we gather to celebrate Eid-ul-Adha, I extend warm greetings on behalf of the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana. May this blessed occasion bring joy to your hearts, unity to our communities, and strength to our faith.
Eid-ul-Adha is a commemoration of unwavering devotion, deep sacrifice, and complete submission to the will of Allah (SWT), as exemplified by the life of Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him), his son Prophet Ismail (peace be upon him), and his wife Hajar (may
Allah be pleased with her). Their story is one of sacrifice, of trusting the divine plan, and of showing what it truly means to live a life in obedience to the Creator.
The Quran tells us in Surah As-Saffat: “We called out to him, ‘O Abraham! You have fulfilled the vision.’ Indeed, this is how We reward the doers of good.” (Qur’an 37:104-105)
This sacred day reminds us that true success lies not in material wealth, but in our commitment to our faith, our willingness to sacrifice for righteousness, and our compassion for others. As millions of our brothers and sisters perform the pilgrimage of Hajj, let this remind us of the unity of the Ummah –regardless of race, status, or nationality – we are one body worshipping One God.
The Muslim Ummah all over, especially in Palestine and South Sudan, contin-
ues to experience unimaginable trials and tribulations; we must remember them in all our prayers. We are in a period of immense testing. However, our Beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) trained us to turn to Allah (SWT) in solitude, in profuse prayer, prolonged prostration, and to confide in Allah (SWT). Our Beloved Prophet (peace be upon him) lifted his arms into the sky as he made du’a (supplication) – an action reserved for the most desperate of prayers and requests. Afterwards, seek the counsel of sincere and trusted people. The Prophetic methodology is to combine unwavering Tawakkul reliance in Allah (SWT) while putting in the effort with one’s own hands.
Let us take comfort in the beautiful and powerful words of the Qur’an:
“Hasbunallahu wa ni’mal wakeel”
Allah (alone) is sufficient for us, and He is the best disposer of affairs. (Qur’an 3:173) This verse reminds us that in times of hardship and uncertainty, we place our full trust in Allah’s wisdom and mercy. Adversities are an opportunity to connect deeply back to Allah (SWT), God Almighty. Let us use the trials as an impetus to drive us towards our Creator, the Infinitely Merciful. For Allah (SWT) reminded us in Surah Al-Baqarah, chapter 2, verse 286:
Allah does not burden a person beyond his scope. He gets reward for that (good) which he has earned, and he is punished for that (evil) which he has earned…
Eid-ul-Adha is the celebration of the reformation of the human condition from that of servitude to other men to that of devotion to the Creator of all living and non-living things. Do not fall into
the trap of considering yourself better than others. Allah (SWT) reminds us,
“People, we created you all from a single man and a single woman and made you into races and tribes so that you should get to know one another. The most honoured of you are the ones most mindful of Him: God is all knowing, all aware.” (Qur’an 49:13)
The sacrifice of Eid is not merely about the animal; it is about sacrificing pride, ego, and selfishness. The Quran reminds us:
“It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is piety from you that reaches Him.” (Qur’an 22:37)
Let us make this Eid a time to strengthen our ties with family, reach out to our neighbours, and support the vulnerable in our communities. Let us be generous, kind, and forgiving. As citizens of Guyana, let us also
work hand in hand for national unity, peace, and prosperity, respecting the rich diversity that makes us stronger together.
May this Eid renew in us the spirit of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) – the spirit of trust in Allah, the spirit of compassion, and the courage to stand for what is right. I pray that Allah (SWT) showers His mercy upon all of us, accepts our sacrifices, forgives our shortcomings, and grants peace and blessings to all of humanity. May Allah (SWT) bless you and your loved ones during these sacred days and always. Hasbunallahu wa ni’mal wakeel.
Eid-ul-Adha stands as a symbol of humility, faith, selfless sacrifice – PPP
The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) extends heartfelt Eid-ul-Adha greetings and best wishes to our Muslim brothers and sis-
ters across Guyana and the Diaspora.
Eid-ul-Adha stands as a symbol of humility, faith, and selfless sacrifice in obedience to the will of God.
Celebrations filled with joy, reflection, and togetherness
The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) extends heartfelt Eid-ul-Adha greetings to the Muslim community across Guyana and beyond. This sacred occasion, known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant events on the Islamic calendar. It commemorates the profound obedience and devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was willing to make the ultimate sacrifice in submission to God’s will.
Eid-ul-Adha is a powerful reminder of the values of selflessness, humility, and piety. These values are central to the Islamic faith and essential virtues that can help guide our conduct and national journey. As a union representing workers from all walks of life, GAWU recognises that the spirit of sacrifice — whether in pursuing personal improvement or national development — plays a critical role in building a more just, inclusive, and prosperous so -
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GAWU
ciety. We are proud of Guyana’s rich multi-religious and multicultural heritage. Eid-ul-Adha allows all Guyanese, regardless of faith, to reflect on the importance of unity, compassion, and shared responsibility. In these times, the festival’s message of charity and empathy is significant, reminding us of the importance of caring for the less fortunate and strengthening the bonds that unite us as a people.
GAWU, therefore, urges that the values and lessons of Eid-ul-Adha resonate not only within the Muslim community but throughout our nation. Let us embrace its message of devotion, sacrifice, and communal harmony as we strive to build a better future for all Guyanese.
Once again, we extend best wishes to the Muslim community for a blessed and peaceful Eid-ul-Adha. May your sacrifices be accepted and your celebrations be filled with joy, reflection, and togetherness.
Its message holds spiritual meaning for all of humanity, promoting the universal values of peace, compassion, and unity.
It inspires qualities such as generosity, morality, and care for the less fortunate, principles that are especially meaningful in our diverse, multi-religious society. These values help
ERC reaffirms commitment to fostering environment of mutual respect
The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) extends warmest greetings and best wishes to the Muslim community and all Guyanese on the joyous occasion of Eid-ul-Adha.
Eid-ul-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice in Islam, is an annual observance of profound spiritual significance, commemorating the unwavering faith and devotion of Prophet Ibrahim. It is a powerful reminder of the values of sacrifice, obedience, and submission to the will of God. Beyond its religious observance, Eid-ulAdha embodies principles of charity, compassion, and community spirit, as families share meals and extend generosity to those in need. It also reminds us of the values of selflessness and unwavering commitment to what is righteous and just. For Guyana, a land blessed with a rich cultural and religious diversity, the occasion serves as a beautiful testament to our shared humanity and the strength found
in our unity and multiculturalism. It is a time for reflection on the importance of peace, harmony, and understanding among all ethnic and religious groups.
The ERC reaffirms its commitment to fostering an environment of mutual respect and appreciation for all Guyanese. This national holiday inspires us to come together in solidarity, sharing in acts of kindness and generosity, and working collectively to build a society rooted in peace and equality. On this auspicious occasion, the Commission encourages everyone to embrace the messages of empathy, forgiveness, and brotherhood that are central to Eid-ul-Adha. Let us continue to build bridges of understanding and work collectively towards a more cohesive and inclusive society for all. May this Eid-ulAdha bring abundant blessings, peace, happiness, and prosperity to every home and to our beloved Guyana. Eid Mubarak
to strengthen the bonds of unity and mutual respect among all Guyanese, enriching our national spirit and deepening appreciation for our cultural and religious diversity.
As our Muslim community observes this holy occasion through worship, prayer, and charitable acts,
the PPP encourages all Guyanese to reflect on the timeless lessons of sacrifice and resilience.
Let us also honour the sacrifices made by generations of Guyanese in the pursuit of a better life and a more prosperous, unified nation.
Eid Mubarak!
Multiplying Whole Numbers
When you multiply whole numbers, start by lining up the numbers correctly. It is easy to line the numbers up if you are multiplying by a 1-digit number.
Example
Multiply the 2 in the first line by the 6 in the second line. 2 x 6 = 12. You cannot write 12 in the ones place, so you do just what you did when adding. You write the 2 and save the 1 for the tens place. Keep that 1 in mind. Go back to the first line, and move one digit to the left to multiply 3 x 6, which is equal to 18. Then you are ready to add that 1. You get 18 + 1 = 19. Write the 9 in the tens place and set the 1 aside. Now go back to the first line again, and move one more digit to the left. Multiply 2 x 6 = 12. But remember the 1 you set aside. So 12 + 1 = 13. The product, or answer to this multiplication problem, is 1392.
When you are multiplying a number by a 2-digit or 3-digit number, you have to be careful to line up the place values correctly.
Remember
Mount Grace Priory
By G.C. Waldrep
It was not a question of not having the language for it— having two, in fact. The walking towards it, and then the walking away. How that felt, all the green gathering itself to the idea of green, lingering right at the edge of the dark, what we call the dark. And the languages, both of them, noticing that, envying it. From their places at the beginning & at the end.
Guyana-China trade quadrupled to US$1.4B in 2024 – Chinese Ambassador
– Pres Ali lauds role of Chinese nationals living, working here to national development
ilateral trade be-
Btween Guyana and China has expanded significantly in recent years, reaching an all-time high of approximately US$1.4 billion in 2024.
This was disclosed by the newly appointed Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Mr Yang Yang, during a reception held at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown on Thursday evening, commemorating 53 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
According to Ambassador Yang, Guyana was the first English-speaking Caribbean country to establish diplomatic ties with China, and over the past 53 years, the two nations have enjoyed enduring ties, with deepening mutual political trust, broadening practical cooperation, and flourishing people-to-people exchanges.
This, she outlined, is reflective in the fact that bilateral cooperation between the two countries has surged massively in recent years.
“In 2024, bilateral trade volume reached US$1.4 billion, nearly four times higher than in 2019. China’s direct investment in Guyana also surged from US$256 million in 2019 to US$10.6 billion in 2024, representing a fortyfold increase,” the Chinese Ambassador stated during her address.
Moreover, Ambassador Yang noted that Chinese en-
terprises here have not only undertaken various projects, but also actively shouldered social responsibilities.
“They have created a large number of job opportunities in Guyana and actively involved in public welfare initiatives such as poverty alleviation, educational support, and charitable donations,” she stated.
Since 1993, the diplomat added, the Chinese Government has dispatched 20 Chinese medical brigades to Guyana, providing healthcare to over 1,310,000 patients, treating more than 30,000 critically ill cases, and performing over 70,000
surgeries.
According to the Ambassador, the Confucius Institute at the University of Guyana (UG) has also made remarkable achievements for over a decade, not only triggering a Chinese study boom, training numerous Chinese language talents, but also facilitated cultural exchanges between the two nations.
“As the world’s largest developing country and the fastest-growing economy, China and Guyana have set a vivid example of equality, mutual assistance, and win-win cooperation for big countries and small ones.”
“China is pursuing national strength and rejuvenation through “Chinesestyle modernisation” while Guyana is undergoing the largest economic and social transformation in its history. At this pivotal moment, I am deeply honoured to serve as China’s new Ambassador to Guyana and keenly aware of the great responsibility entrusted to me. I will spare no effort to work with the Guyanese Government and all sectors to write a new chapter in China-Guyana relations,” she expressed.
Similar sentiments were returned by President Dr Irfaan Ali during his fea-
ture address at Thursday’s event, which also served as a welcome reception for Ambassador Yang, who was accredited back in April.
The Head of State underscored the importance of Chinese nationals to Guyana’s national development. He explained that his Government is committed to building a One Guyana that demonstrates equity and opportunity for all.
Under this One Guyana initiative, he explained that “every person who contributes to our development regardless of nationality is welcomed and valued. Chinese nationals living and working in Guyana are therefore an important part of our national development thrust.”
The President also saluted the Chinese Government’s contribution to Guyana’s development, noting that the co-operation between the two countries spans a broad-spectrum, including areas such as agriculture, education, infrastructure, health, security, sport, arts and culture, telecommunications, technology, trade, transport and private investments.
President Ali said as Guyana forges ahead with its transformative development and social agenda, China will remain a long-standing partner in that journey.
“We’re confident that as Guyana rises to new
heights, China will be there offering friendship, partnership to advance mutual benefit and development,” the Head of State emphasised. He also recognised China’s contribution to Guyana’s cultural identity.
“The Chinese community in Guyana has for over 170 years contributed significantly to our cultural diversity, our commerce and our national development. These enduring people-to-people connections have enriched our society and continue to serve as a bridge between our two nations,” he noted.
Signature projects including the New Demerara River Bridge, six Regional Hospitals, and the Chinaaided China-Guyana Friendship Joe Vieira Park, are poised to become iconic landmarks of the ever-growing China-Guyana friendship.
Moreover, Chinese companies are executing various major road expansion projects across Guyana and are actively participating in the country’s burgeoning oil and gas sector.
On the other hand, numerous Guyanese officials, doctors, entrepreneurs, journalists, policemen, engineers have undertaken professional and technical training in China, emerging as key participants, beneficiaries, and promoters of China-Guyana people-to-people exchanges.
President Dr Irfaan Ali, Prime Minister Mark Phillips, and Foreign Minister Hugh Todd sharing a toast with Chinese Ambassador Yang Yang and other officials at the Chinese Embassy in Georgetown
Guard granted $100,000 bail after brutal attack on partner
— victim remains hospitalised, fearful for her life
A25-year-old security officer was on Friday granted $100,000 bail after being charged with inflicting grievous bodily harm on his partner, an act which, according to investigators and persons close to the case, forms part of a disturbing pattern of abusive and controlling behaviour.
Kevon French, of Lot 408 Onderneeming, La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara (WBD) appeared before Magistrate Annette Singh at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court to answer to the charge of unlawfully and maliciously wounding 35-year-old Althea Morris, on May 29, at Thomas Lands, Georgetown.
Initially, French was not required to plead since the charge was indictable. However, after the prosecution made a successful application for the matter to be tried summarily, with consent from French, he pleaded not guilty. During the hearing, he reportedly attempted to explain his version of events.
This publication understands that on the night of the incident, Morris, a caterer who prepares and delivers meals to a special needs school, had informed French that she needed to attend
a wake on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD). French, who was at work at the time, allegedly told her that she should wait for him because she could not go without him.
Morris, aware of his history of controlling behaviour, allegedly waited for several hours, but French never showed up. She ultimately decided not to attend the wake but proceeded to drop off meals that were due for delivery. It was during this trip that she was reportedly followed by French without her knowledge.
As she exited the premises where she had made her delivery, French allegedly confronted her, demanding to know where she had gone and why. According to information revealed, Morris attempted to explain that she had no intention of continuing the relationship due to its toxic nature and his controlling tendencies. It was then that French allegedly began slamming her head into the car, causing her nose to break and leaving her with multiple facial and bodily injuries.
Morris was rushed to the hospital and has remained there since the incident. Reports indicate that she continues to suffer from nasal bleeding and is deep-
"Monkeyman" gets 4 years for B&E, larceny
…stole gun, ammo, over $10M, jewellery
A29-year-old man who goes by the alias “Monkeyman”, was on Thursday sentenced to four years in prison after pleading guilty to a break and enter and larceny charge in connection with a multi-million-dollar burglary in Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara (ECD).
Ralph Pollard, a resident of Lot 29 Diamond New Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara (EBD) and also of Beterverwagting, ECD, appeared virtually from the Lusignan Prison before Magistrate Abigail Gibbs at the Sparendaam Magistrates’ Court. Pollard was arrested on May 30, 2025, and formally charged on Thursday, June 5. He admitted to breaking into the home of Andre Perreira at New Granville Park, Beterverwagting, and stealing a .32 pistol along with 12 matching rounds of ammunition. In addition to the firearm, Pollard carted off gold and diamond jewellery and a quantity of cash, amounting to a total loss of $10,487,000.
According to police, the firearm and ammunition
were successfully recovered during the investigation. Pollard’s guilty plea led Magistrate Gibbs to impose a four-year sentence with immediate effect. This is not Pollard’s first encounter with the law. Back in 2021, he was charged with attempted murder in an unrelated matter. He was accused of attempting to kill Stephen Waldron and appeared before Magistrate Rochelle Liverpool at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court. At the time, Pollard was not required to plead to the indictable charge and was remanded to prison until September 20, 2021. However, the outcome of that case remains unclear.
ly traumatised by the attack. During Friday’s bail hearing, the prosecution strongly objected to French being released, citing the serious nature of the injuries, the victim’s ongoing hospitalisation, and repeated claims that she fears for her life.
The investigating officer confirmed in court that this was not the first reported incident of abuse involving French and Morris, and described a pattern of coercive behaviour. Morris allegedly told authorities that French would routinely demand that she send photographs of herself before leaving home and again upon arrival at her destination. He reportedly insisted that she not go anywhere without him, and that she inform him of her every movement.
The officer confirmed in court that although French and Morris had previously lived together, French had since moved out of the shared residence. The address he provided to the court is reportedly his parents’ home.
Despite the prosecution’s objection, Magistrate Singh questioned the rationale for opposing bail, noting that French had already been on station bail prior to being charged. “He was already out on station bail,” the Magistrate remarked, asking, “What exactly is the prosecution objecting to now?”
Still, the prosecution maintained its position, pointing to the continued threat to the victim’s safety.
In the end, Magistrate Singh granted French bail in the sum of $100,000 but imposed strict conditions: French is to stay at least 100 yards away from Morris and must not attempt to contact her in any way.
The Magistrate warned that any breach of these conditions would lead to immediate revocation of bail and remand to prison until the conclusion of the trial.
The case has been adjourned to July 4, 2025, and investigations are ongoing.
Mixologist granted bail over alleged conversion of over $1M in gold jewellery
A33-year-old mixologist was on Friday granted $150,000 bail after being charged with fraudulently converting over $1 million in gold jewellery that had been entrusted to him, including a pair of wedding rings and a gold band.
Joel Waldron, of Lot 104 Victory Valley, Linden, appeared before Magistrate Annette Singh at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court to answer to a charge which alleged that on May 23, 2025, at Robb Street, Georgetown, he was entrusted by Mark Lewis with one gold band valued at $470,000 and two gold wedding rings valued at $558,000, all totalling $1,028,000.
Waldron is accused of converting the items for his personal use and benefit.
The charge was initially laid indictable, but at Friday’s hearing, the prosecution requested that the matter be tried summarily. With the agreement of Waldron, the case proceeded in the Magistrate’s court, and Waldron pleaded not guilty.
During the proceedings, Magistrate Singh questioned whether the parties were interested in resolving the matter through a settlement. However, the virtual com-
plainant, Mark Lewis, made it clear that he had no intention of settling. Waldron also stated that he wished to proceed to a full trial.
The prosecution did not object to bail, and Magistrate Singh granted Waldron bail in the sum of $150,000. The court also ordered Waldron to return on July 11 for the disclosure of evidence.
This is not Waldron’s first time before the court. Back in March 2021, he was charged with breaching COVID-19 social distancing restrictions. He had appeared before Linden Magistrate Wanda Fortune, accused of hosting a private party on February 27, 2021, at Buck Hill, Wismar. Waldron had pleaded not guilty to that charge and was placed on $20,000 bail. It is unclear what became of that matter.
Politicking… …for keeps
There’s been a steady stream of prominent members of Opposition parties – all the way to sitting MPs –who’ve decided to throw their lot in with the PPP in time for the Sept 1 elections. And the phenomenon seems to be developing such a head of steam ,your Eyewitness wouldn’t be surprised if some in the LEADERSHIP core decide to follow suit!! Wouldn’t it be a bitch if Norton moves from shaking Prezzie’s hand to announcing he’s now supporting the latter’s candidacy??!! But naaah!! Ain’t gonna happen –but you get the idea, don’t you??
So, what’s really going on?? Now in politics in Guyana – like politics everywhere – folks support parties for any number of reasons – personal and objective ones. We all know about the ethnic factor – which works at both levels. Is that what’s playing out here? Well, one rabid rabble rouser from the WPA – who’s got race in his brain – thinks so where the persons departing the Opposition parties to the PPP are Indians!! For example, with Geeta Chandan and Daniel Seeram – who’d been brought in by Granger to broaden the PNC’s image – he fumed that they were “ingrates” since they’d been given positions that far exceeded Indian support they’d brought into the party!!
But as usual, he misses the point because of his compulsion to fulminate!! If in fact Granger brought in these Indian persons and gave them big positions in the PNC, it was because he calculated they helped present a “kinder, gentler and more accommodative” PNC. The party was already dead meat that stank from head to tail and – just like Hoyte back in the day – he had to sanitise it!! These folks were willing to be called “PNC” when most wouldn’t touch them with a mile-long pole!! When Norton initially made Geeta Chandan PNC General Secretary and Seeram Reg 4 Chairman, they weren’t only signalling that the PNC was kosher – but so was he!! That’s of inestimable political value – so there’s nothing “ungrateful” about their decision to leave the PNC as if they got more than they gave!!
So, what does the reprobate say about the Afro and Mixed Guyanese who’ve moved over to the PPP – like for instance James Bond and of Region 4, Dep Chair, Samuel Sandy?? They are “opportunists” who “hang their mouths where soup aleak”!! It’s inconceivable to him that these folks – and those above – could POSSIBLY see the PPP as better equipped to develop Guyana – which includes them – than the PNC!!
And that such persons leaving the PNC damages its credibility and image – not to mention signalling weakness in being unable to generate loyalty. Rather than cussing the departed, the Opposition should up their game!! Or remain dead meat!!
…and talking fat
Your Eyewitness guesses that the AFC announcing they’re gonna be renegotiating the Exxon PSA is a case of desperate times calling for desperate measures!! After all, is there anything more desperate than becoming extinct!! Which is the condition they’re teetering on after their condition deteriorated from “Dead Meat” – which they’d become after they hitched up with the PNC!! The very fact that your Eyewitness has even mentioned them proves the point!!
So let’s suspend every iota of discretion we have and suppose that the AFC on its lonesome – after they were spurned by the PNC – wins the election – they’ll still have to get past that small matter of the most draconian freezing stability clause in the contract – which prohibits ANY renegotiation or modification!! But HOLD IT!! It was the AFC’s co-founder Trotman who agreed to that clause, innit? Maybe – as most believe – he received “inducements” to accept that??
And is now willing to fall on his sword and fess up – thus voiding the contract??
…on accomplishments
The news that KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is once again flying into our dear Mudland is another nail in the coffin of the Opposition. With British Airways already having returned we’re now firmly reconnected to our founders!
Joel Waldron
Ralph Pollard
Kevon French
Aubrey Norton excuses David Hinds’s racist tirades
...says does not conflict with PNC’s position
Opposition Leader
Aubrey Norton has stated that neither he nor the People’s National Congress (PNC)led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) coalition will condemn Working People’s Alliance (WPA) executive David Hinds for his series of racist and derogatory remarks. “I don’t know about disparaging remarks,” Norton said in response to questions during his party’s press conference on Friday.
Hinds recently expressed that PNC’s Daniel Seeram was only given his position in the party because of his ethnicity, stating that “when you’re an Indian, you rise up quickly in the black party—at the expense of some black members” and that “here’s an Indian man rewarded by the votes of Africans”.
In the past, Hinds referred to PNC’s then General Secretary Geeta Chandan-Edmond as a “slave catcher”.
In February 2025, Hinds during his “Politics 101” programme, hurled a series of insults at AfroGuyanese, calling them “lick bottoms,” “house slaves,” and “sell outs”, among others. In all these
cases, Norton and the PNC/ APNU have refused to condemn Hinds.
Now, the PNC/APNU have teamed up to contest the upcoming General and Regional Elections on September 1.
On Friday, Norton was again asked by the media whether he will condemn Hinds over his divisive comments.
However, the PNC leader and presidential hopeful said, “I know for a fact that David is passionate about whatever and mind you, we are not answerable for the WPA.”
Norton went on to say that, “we engage David hinds, we believe he’s a very intelligent person. We know what his beliefs are, we will work together, but
there is no way we will condemn David. He has a right as a member of the WPA, just as others, have a right to express his views.”
“When his views conflict, we will have to deal with it,” Norton added.
He also pointed out that “David Hinds has been in politics long, he obviously knows that he has to choose what he says and I think if he chooses to go whichever road he went down, it is after a conscious decision…”
In March 2023, WPA’s Tacuma Ogunseye faced widespread criticism after
alleging that the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) was using law enforcement agencies to “execute” Africans. He also urged members of his ethnic group—particularly those within the Joint Services— to be “battle ready” for a “fight”.
While Ogunseye was strongly condemned by a wide cross-section of society over his inflammatory statements, Norton refused to speak up. Norton instead described the utterances from the WPA member as just “poor choice of words” and noted that Ogunseye’s right to free speech must be respected.
In spite of these developments, the PNC is promising the electorate that it will fix race relations in the country. On its website, the PNC states that “…improving race relations depends on establishing mutual respect and shared understandings among the races. We in the PNCR/APNU have identified race relations as one of national priorities.”
Chinese national dies at Region 1 worksite
The Labour Ministry’s Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Department has launched an investigation into a fatal workplace accident that occurred at Guyana Manganese Incorporated (GMI) in Matthew’s Ridge, Region One (BarimaWaini).
Dead is Siyuan Chen, a Chinese national employed as an electrician at the mining facility. Reports are that the incident occurred at about 13:45h on Thursday.
Preliminary reports indicate that Chen was monitoring the conveyor belt system in the wash plant when he became entangled in the machinery. This resulted in the loss of his right arm and ultimately
led to his death.
OSH Officer, Chavez Daniels, the Ministry said, is leading the investigation, which is being conducted in collaboration with the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and Environmental Officer Sergio Phillander. The inquiry is focused on identifying the root causes of the incident and developing measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Labour Minister, Joseph Hamilton, has expressed deep concern over the occurrence of workplace accidents and extended condolences to the relatives, co-workers, and friends of the deceased. The investigation remains ongoing.
Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton
WPA leader David Hinds
Former Forestry Commissioner James Singh passes away
…remembered for transformative impact on Guyana’s environment
Former Commissioner of Forests, James Singh, who has had decades-long service leaving an indelible mark on the country’s forestry and environmental conservation sectors, has died. His passing has drawn tributes from national leaders and institutions, highlighting a life dedicated to sustainable forest management and global climate advocacy.
President Dr Irfaan Ali, in a tribute, described Singh as "a mighty tree" whose contributions to the nation’s forestry landscape were both foundational and visionary. “James’s leadership within the Guyana Forestry Commission was nothing short of transformative,” President Ali said. “His work ensured Guyana met important international obligations relating to our Low Carbon Development Strategy. Under his stewardship, our nation achieved and maintained a low deforestation rate.”
The Head of State further credited Singh’s leadership for laying the groundwork that enabled Guyana to successfully enter the global carbon market. He emphasized Singh’s “quiet efficiency” and en -
during impact, stating, “James was one of the unseen roots that strengthened our forestry sector, ensuring that the benefits of our forests would endure for future generations.”
Meanwhile, the Natural Resources Ministry and the Guyana Forestry Commission also expressed deep sorrow over Singh’s passing, describing him as a “stalwart in the forestry sector” who devoted more than 20 years to safeguarding Guyana’s forests. In their joint statement, they noted that his expertise was central to advancing environmental conservation efforts and sustainable forest practices.
Singh served as the Chief Negotiator for the European Union Forest Law Enforcement,
Governance and Trade Voluntary Partnership Agreement (EU FLEGT VPA), and played a key role in the National Implementation Working Group and Government Coordination Body. His tenure saw the introduction of reduced impact logging techniques and the establishment of the Log Tracking System, both of which were pivotal in promoting sustainability and traceability in forestry operations.
“Mr Singh’s vision and leadership have had a
transformative impact on our forests and the people who depend on them,” the statement noted. “He has played a pivotal role in advancing the cause of forest preservation on the global stage.”
Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat, along with the staff of the ministry and its agencies, extended condolences to Singh’s family and friends, acknowledging the depth of his contributions to both national development and global environmental stewardship.
Fmr High Commissioner named Chair of CanadaGuyana Chamber of Commerce
The Canada-Guyana
Chamber of Commerce (CGCC) has announced the appointment of Lilian Chatterjee, former Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, as Chair of its Board of Directors following the Chamber’s 2025 Annual General Meeting.
According to the chamber, Chatterjee’s diplomatic experience and deep knowledge of Guyana’s political and economic landscape are expected to bring added depth to the Chamber’s work.
Joining Chatterjee on the Board are Dr Surendra Persaud as CoChair, Winston Kassim as Honorary Co-Chair –Canada, Anand Beharry as Honorary Co-Chair –Guyana, Vishnu Doerga as Secretary, and Suraj Mattai
as Treasurer. Fareed Amin, former Deputy Minister in the Government of Ontario, will continue to serve as Managing Director. In a statement, the CGCC congratulated the new Board members and expressed gratitude to outgoing members for their service. “The newly constituted Board brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and cross-sector expertise that will further strengthen the Chamber’s ability to serve its members and advance the Canada-Guyana commercial partnership,” the Chamber noted.
The CGCC reiterated its commitment to promoting bilateral trade, investment, and innovation while supporting inclusive and sustainable development in both Canada and Guyana.
Former Head of the Guyana Forestry Commission, James Singh
Chair of Canada-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (CGCC), Lilian Chatterjee
Mohamed Ali, the man accused of scamming a woman and her teenage daughter of more than $700,000 while posing as a Mobile Money Guyana (MMG) agent, was again denied bail when he appeared before Magistrate Annette Singh at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Friday.
Ali is facing a fraud charge linked to the March 29 incident, in which he allegedly deceived a Suriname-based woman and her 16-year-old daughter, using the pretext of an MMG account update and a fake promotion.
The case drew attention after it was revealed that he collected $625,000 in cash from the teen at Stabroek Market, having earlier manipulated one-time
passwords to access an additional $113,000 electronically.
Represented by Attorney Dominick Bess, Ali sought bail during the hearing. Bess admitted that his client had a previous conviction for a similar type of offence but insisted that he was not a flight risk and would attend all future court dates.
However, the prosecution strongly objected, stating that the investigation is still ongoing. They also revealed that CCTV footage clearly captured Ali with the virtual complainant at the Stabroek Market location during the handover of the cash.
According to the prosecutor, Ali was shown the footage during a police confrontation and confirmed that he was the individual seen in the video.
Additionally, the clothing worn by the accused in the footage matched the description provided by the teen.
It was also stated that Ali was not only charged with obtaining monies by false pretence, but he also had computer-related charges.
Magistrate Singh, after considering the submissions, refused bail and adjourned the matter to June 27, 2025.
She informed Attorney Bess that he could renew the bail application at the next hearing.
Ali remains in custody as police continue investigations into this case, which forms part of a larger pattern of MMG-related scams that have targeted unsuspecting victims across the country.
Sod turned for new Diamond Primary School to serve 750 students …as $296M Houston Secondary nearing completion
Education Minister Priya Manickchand has announced that the new $296 million Houston Secondary
School is nearing completion, following a recent visit to the construction site on Thursday. The school is being built on the grounds of the former Houston Secondary School, which has since been demolished to make way for the modern facility. In a statement shared on her official Facebook page, Minister Manickchand highlighted the grand cost of the project.
“I'm actually in the com-
School,” Manickchand affirmed.
750 students Meanwhile in Diamond, Minister Manickchand also turned the sod for the construction of a new primary school, which is expected to serve 750 students.
The school is projected to be completed by September 2026; however, the Ministry is aiming for an earlier delivery.
The Minister explained
pound of what used to be the Houston Secondary School. As you can see, it has been demolished, with a view by the Government of Guyana and the Ministry of Education to rebuild a modern facility, costing close to $300 million, for 400 children from the Lower East Bank area,” she shared in the post.
Manickchand noted that the new school will be equipped with state-ofthe-art facilities, including individual classrooms, Science and IT laboratories, TVET labs, a modern staff room, library and counselling spaces.
“I count on the contractor… to deliver high quality work, on time and within budget,” she added.
“To the parents, families, and children of the Lower East Bank, this is soon coming to you: a brandnew Houston Secondary
that the decision to build the school was driven by overcrowding in the area’s existing institutions:
“Right now, the Diamond Grove Old School and the Diamond No. 1 Primary are already overcrowded. We definitely need this new primary school for the growing population in this large community.”
Manickchand added that the school will serve the rapidly expanding residential developments in Diamond, including housing schemes for young professionals.
“This is a 10-month project. They’re going to be using prefab materials, so construction should move quickly. The design incorporates all international child-friendly standards,” she informed.
“I'm very glad that this brand-new primary school is about to come on board.”
Education Minister Priya Manickchand alongside key officials during the sod turning
APNU/AFC lost all credibility with attempts to steal elections – Jagdeo
– “If you steal elections, what else can you talk about governance?” he says
General Secretary (GS) of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Bharrat Jagdeo has criticised the major Opposition political parties – A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) – for trying to present themselves as champions of good governance when they attempted to derail the will of the people at the last elections in 2020. “Stealing elections is the litmus test for credibility and governance. If you steal elections, what else can you talk about governance? Everything else becomes muted, everything else,” he emphasised during his weekly press conference on Thursday.
Jagdeo recalled the refusal by the APNU+AFC to hold elections three months after they were defeated by a No-Confidence
motion in the National Assembly in December 2018.
“You defied the Constitution of Guyana, you had to go to elections three months after a successful no-confidence motion, you stuck around and squatted in office for over a year then only with international pressure and the CCJ (Caribbean Court of Justice) ruling we managed to get elections,” he reminded.
The coalition was elected to office in 2015 after decades of PPP being in office. But three short years later, they were defeated in a motion of no confidence in the National Assembly. This was possible when AFC member Charandass Persaud voted with the then PPP parliamentarians that they have lost confidence in the Government.
However, the APNU+AFC sought the in-
tervention of the courts in an attempt to remain in power, with current Leader of the AFC, Nigel Hughes arguing that Persaud’s lone crossover vote cannot topple the Government.
After several legal battles, the General and Regional Elections were subsequently held on March 2, 2020 but even after being voted out of office, the coalition refused to give up power.
“Then after the elections, you squatted another five months in office enjoying all the benefits… and now they’re talking about governance. You violated the Constitution,” Jagdeo reminded.
He also reminded of efforts of the then David Granger-led administration, prior to the 2020 elections, to unilaterally appoint a Chairperson of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) -
again in violation of the Constitution.
“…25 years of common understanding between the PNC, the PPP and everyone else that this provision in the Constitution will work in this manner; we’ve all respected that, [former leaders of the People’s National Congress] Desmond Hoyte, Robert Corbin [and former presidents] Donald Ramotar, Jagdeo, until the last Government came into office and decided to uni-
laterally appoint,” Jagdeo explained.
The PPP GS questioned “if you can’t respect a basic provision of the Constitution. The interpretation of that, law that has been settled not only in law but in practice, then how could you ever claim credibility again with anything associated with governance?”
The next General and Regional Elections are slated for September 1, 2025.
Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton
Nigel Hughes
Opposition walkouts will not stall September 1 elections – Jagdeo assures
Opposition-nominated Commissioners on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) continue to walk out of meetings that deal with preparations for the upcoming polls, however, Vice President (VP) Dr Bharrat Jagdeo said their actions cannot delay the hosting of the 2025 General and Regional Elections on September 1.
“We predicted this, that they are going to try to stymie the work of the Elections Commission so that we can’t have the elections by September 1. I doubt they will succeed because the Commission has already laid out the plan. From what I see and the time-
line, I don’t see them being able to disrupt the activities, the preparations for the elections,” Jagdeo explained during his press conference on Thursday.
The Oppositionnominated Commissioners – Vincent Alexander, Desmond Trotman, and Charles Corbin – have repeatedly walked out of meetings since the announcement of September 1 as election day.
Under current procedures, the quorum for statutory meetings requires the presence of the Chairperson and at least two commissioners from both the Government and opposition sides.
However, a revised quorum structure—consisting of the Chairperson and any three commissioners—has been invoked under constitutional provisions to allow GECOM’s work to continue. Jagdeo noted that the actions of the Opposition Commissioners are reminiscent of their posture during the 2020 elections.
“I thought they had an opportunity to change the way they work but you can’t depend on them to act in good faith,” he noted.
Attorney General (AG) Anil Nandlall had described the Opposition Commissioners’ behaviour as “undemocratic and authoritarian”. He had noted
too that their actions indicate that the political opposition is not ready for the upcoming polls.
“On the one hand, Norton is puffing his chest and saying he is ready for the elections but on the other hand, he has his cohorts at GECOM carrying out his directions to obstruct the process as far as possible, to frustrate the process as far as possible with the objective of possibly delaying the elections,” Nandlall had suggested.
GECOM has already approved a workplan for the upcoming elections. Nominations Day has been set for July 14.
Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo
Pres Ali, Chinese Ambassador discuss role China must play in ensuring region remains a zone of peace
President Dr Irfaan Ali and Chinese Ambassador to Guyana Yang Yang have discussed the GuyanaVenezuela border controversy, including the role China must play in ensuring the region remains a zone of peace. This was disclosed by President Ali on Thursday evening during a reception to commemorate the 53rd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Guyana and China.
“Ambassador, we’ve already had many discussions on ways in which we can advance our partnership, discussions surrounding every aspect of
our national life including the safeguarding of our sovereignty and territorial integrity and the role China must play in ensuring this region remains peaceful and that our neighbours in a just manner follow what we all believe in, that is, international order and the rule of law, and respect of sovereignty and territorial integrity,” President Ali said.
In April, Guyana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation issued a statement noting that it has “taken note that there has been no comment from the Government of the People’s Republic of China
on the blatant announcement by the Government of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela that it intends to conduct elections on 25 May 2025 for a Governor and legislative council of “Guayana Esequiba State”, which is the name Venezuela has given to Guyana’s Essequibo region. This is a clear violation of Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
While China has traditionally refrained from commenting on the border controversy, it had previously called for peace to prevail between Guyana and Venezuela back in 2023.
At a December 6, 2023 press conference in Beijing, China’s former Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson, Wang Wenbin, was asked by French news agency AFP about the GuyanaVenezuela border issue.
The former spokesman was asked whether China, a “firm” ally of Venezuela while also maintaining friendly relations with Guyana, supported Venezuela’s unjust claims on Guyana’s territory, and whether the country was worried about a possible invasion.
In response, he had said, “Venezuela and Guyana are both China’s good friends. China always respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries. China always supports the two countries in properly settling the issue of demarcation of their boundary through friendly consultation. This is in the interests of the people of both countries, and conducive to the stability, cooperation and development of Latin America and the Caribbean.”
Venezuela is claiming two-thirds of Guyana’s landmass – the entire Essequibo region – and a portion of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) offshore, where more than 11 billion barrels of oil equivalent (boe) have been discovered in the prolific Stabroek Block. Chinese state-owned oil company, China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), is one of the partners operating in the oil-rich Stabroek Block with a 25 per cent working interest.
Waramuri Secondary School nears completion
Construction of the Waramuri Secondary School in the Moruca Sub-District, Region One, is 90 percent completed. Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, provided an update during a recent site visit to the school.
Once completed, the modern facility will accommodate nearly 400 students from Waramuri, Haimaracabra, Para, and other surrounding villages.
Students will have access to more than 12 classrooms, information technology (IT), physics, chemistry, biology, and home economics laboratories, a library, sports fa -
py to be able to do that.
We are very proud to bring these opportunities to children in this region.”
cilities, an auditorium, and accommodation for 10 teachers.
“We are also training teachers simultaneously as we build out this building,” the Education Minister said before declaring, “We are very hap -
In June 2024, the sod was turned for the construction of the $434.5 million school. Waramuri Secondary is one of four secondary schools currently being built in the region, alongside Kwebanna, Hosororo, and Matthew’s
Ridge.
Minister Manickchand noted that when the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government took office in 1992, there was only one secondary school in Mabaruma, Region One. She explained that the Government built more schools between 1992 and 2015, namely the Santa Rosa Secondary and Port Kaituma Secondary Schools.
Dormitories at these schools are currently being refurbished to ensure all necessary facilities are available.
The construction and refurbishment of educational institutions are part of the Government’s wider plan to achieve universal education in Region One.
The Minister was joined by Marti DeSouza, Deputy Chief Education Officer (DCEO) for Amerindian and Hinterland Education Development; Monet Williams, Teacherin-Charge (ag) of the Waramuri Secondary Department; and Collin De LaCruz, Headmaster of Waramuri Primary.
Education Minister Priya Manickchand during a site visit at Waramuri Secondary School
Waramuri Secondary School in Region One is almost completed
Queen’s College cops 1st place at SHOUT 3.0 competition
Anushka Singh, of Queen’s College, was crowned the SHOUT 3.0 National Champion after delivering an outstanding performance across all four phases of the competition, presenting a compelling vision for sustainable transformation.
As a result of her accomplishment, Queen’s College will receive a GYD 1 million cash grant to implement an environmen-
vironmental speaker, spotlighting the next generation of environmental leaders.
Hosted at the Ramada Georgetown Princess Hotel, the event marked the national finale of the fourphase competition, which began in March. It was organised by Recover Guyana in collaboration with the Education Ministry, and supported by ExxonMobil Guyana (EMGL). This year’s competition
tries, 30 schools advanced to the national finals on SHOUT Day.
Kuvina Singh of Bishops’ High School earned second place for a well-balanced and emotionally resonant speech, while Subrina Jagdeo of President’s College secured third place with a thoughtful and passionate call to action.
Prizes for second and third-place winners included cash prizes, education-
tal enhancement project inspired by Singh’s proposal. Additionally, the school will benefit from one year of free fibre internet service provided by One Communications. Singh was awarded GYD 100,000 in cash, a laptop, and one year of free One Fibre service.
The SHOUT 3.0 competition sought to identify Guyana’s premier youth en-
received more than 60 applications across 11 educational districts, including hinterland regions. SHOUT 3.0 featured four challenging and engaging phases, beginning with a one-minute video submission where students pitched an original environmental project they would implement at their school if awarded one million dollars. From these en-
al technology packages, and learning-focused rewards. Each national finalist received an award recognising their outstanding participation and commitment to environmental advocacy.
Special awards were also presented to Subrina Jagdeo of President’s College who received the Most Influential Speech award; Kristina Teekaram
of Leguan Secondary School was honoured with the Best Speaker Award and the Environmental Impact Award; and Anushka Singh of Queen’s College received the Go Green Award.
Additionally, champion speakers were recognised from each county: Demerara’s Damian Martins of Hope Secondary School, Berbice’s Amanda Sampson of Lower Corentyne Secondary School, and Essequibo’s Kristina Teekaram of Leguan Secondary School.
Dr Dave Lalltoo, Founder of Recover Guyana, praised the achievements of the young participants, stating, “These students have not only found their voices, but they have found purpose. SHOUT 3.0 is about more than speeches. It is about building a culture of environmental leadership that begins in our schools and communities.”
Representing the Education Ministry, Mr Granville, Senior Education Officer for English, remarked, “We are proud to partner with Recover Guyana and ExxonMobil Guyana in this endeavour. Through SHOUT, we see not only brilliant public speakers but passionate environmental ambassadors who are already shaping the future of Guyana.” Ryan Lowry of EMGL reaffirmed the company’s commitment to environmental education and youth development.
“The fact that you are here, that you are exploring real, tangible ways to begin making changes, that you have thought through
how you are actually going to execute your innovative ideas, shows you have the potential to continue doing great things. It’s one of the reasons why at EMGL we support youth empowerment, we support programmes that encourage critical thinking, and we support STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education—so that we can support building the capacity of young Guyanese, and we can really help make a difference in your lives and those around you,” he told the gathering.
SHOUT 3.0 was made possible through the generous support of corporate donours and partners, including the Ministry of Education, title sponsor ExxonMobil Guyana, Nand Persaud & Company Ltd.; Premium Green Sponsor Flawless Dental GY, Camex Restaurants Inc., Scotiabank Guyana, and
Guyoil; Eco-Green Sponsors One Communications; ONE Fibre Sponsor SEVA Marketing Inc., Ramada Georgetown Princess Hotel, Macon Construction, 360 Professional Services, Trophy Stall, Anthony Indar Productions, M. Pro Media, Engage Media, Guyana Premier Consultancy, ELEVATE, Krowned, Pixel Perfect Productions, the Guyana Learning Channel, Book-A-Ride, Phoenix Oilfield Services and Engineering Inc., AN Pins & Gifts, and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA). Recover Guyana has grown into a national leader in youth empowerment, environmental education, and community development. As SHOUT continues to expand, it remains Recover Guyana’s flagship initiative, promoting awareness, civic responsibility, and leadership among young advocates committed to building a sustainable future for Guyana.
Govt working to address land boundaries, illegal mining in 2 Indigenous communities
After issues and concerns were raised regarding land boundaries and illegal mining during the recent National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference in May, Government, through several ministries and agencies, have been working with Indigenous communities to have them resolved.
According to a Department of Public Information (DPI) news report, concerns about land boundaries, and claims of illegal mining were presented by both residents of Jawalla, Region Seven, and Paramakatoi, Region Eight, at the Conference.
Jawalla: Land demarcation
Jawalla is contesting that the village is larger than what it is currently, and the boundaries therefore, are not accurate.
This presents a unique challenge that can only be resolved by the Guyana Lands and Survey Commission (GLSC), which has the primary responsibility for all land demarcation across the country, the report said.
In an attempt to resolve this issue, Minister of Natural
Resources, Vickram Bharrat, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources, and senior officials of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) met with the representatives of Jawalla Village during NTC Conference, and discussed the specific boundary concern.
The guidance from Minister Bharrat to the representatives was for Jawalla to undertake a demarcation process, which would, in effect, bring much-needed clarity; however, the community representatives rejected this.
The cost of demarcation is borne by the state and community members; they do not have to be burdened with this expenditure, the news report noted.
Mining
Jawalla is currently recognised as Titled Amerindian Lands, meaning it is legally owned by Guyana’s First Peoples.
Before this significant achievement, 5 small-scale properties (or claims) existed and were licensed to operate within this area.
As stipulated by the
Amerindian Act Section 48(1 & 2), any mining operations must have the seal of approval from the community. Therefore, the existing miners who were allocated the legal means to operate in Jawalla before it became titled are now in a position where their claims are surrounded by village lands.
In an invited comment to the DPI, Jacques Foster, Deputy Commissioner, Administration, GGMC, highlighted that there are no largescale or medium-scale mining within the recognised Jawalla boundary.
Following NTC engagements, Foster sat down with community representatives and further committed to having the concerns addressed by exploring all avenues and mechanisms that would lead to the relocation of the current miners.
He told the DPI that as part of the commitment, a team was dispatched to the area to investigate allegations of illegal mining, environmental concerns, and conduct a site visit to the claims within the village lands.
The report from the com-
pleted field exercise would guide the next steps in providing closure for all parties.
Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai also held discussions with Jawalla’s community leaders and reiterated the Government’s willingness to engage with community stakeholders.
Paramakatoi
Meanwhile, the GGMC has acknowledged the concerns raised by community representatives from Paramakatoi, and stated that claims of illegal mining were directly addressed after a thorough investigation was completed several months before being raised at the NTC. Allegations of illegal mining, disenfranchised villagers and a dispute over a mining property spurred the investigation.
Upon investigating, GGMC determined that the disputed area was legally held by a medium-scale permit, and the mining claims were incorrectly represented to be within the medium-scale area. The correct location of the claims was 9 miles away from where the persons were
attempting to place them.
This meant that the initial complaint of illegal mining did not match what occurred. The medium-scale mining operators were within their legal parameters to conduct their operations and therefore, were not in breach of the laws.
With respect to the allegations of threats and security concerns, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) investigated these matters.
The Ministry of Natural Resources, the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs and the GGMC continue to engage with all stakeholders via
open-door policies and official open days.
The Government, the DPI report said, remains committed to ensuring that all Amerindian communities benefit and develop alongside the rapid pace of transformation, ensuring no one is left out.
Conferences like the NTC continue to serve as a progressive avenue for meaningful engagement with Amerindian communities across the country, aiming to propel the transformation of these villages and the lives of their residents.
The brightest minds from across the nation united at SHOUT 3.0 — 30 national finalists pictured here represent the pinnacle of creativity, innovation, and determination. Each team earned their place through exceptional talent and bold ideas, making this year's competition a true celebration of youth-driven impact
First-place winner Anushka Singh (centre), Queen's College; second-place winner Kuvina Singh (right), Bishops' High School, and third-place winner Subrina Jagdeo (left), President's College, were honoured for their outstanding creativity, vision, and impact. The event showcased the next generation of change makers pushing boundaries and shaping the future
The current recognised boundaries of Jawalla as guided by the GLSC
Opposition claims mass exodus from PNC/ APNU, AFC will not affect electoral performance
The leadership of both the Peoples National Congress (PNC)-led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) opposition parties are not worried about the mass crossover of party members to the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C). In recent weeks, a large number of opposition politicians have come forward to endorse the President Dr Irfaan Ali-led PPP/C Government for a second term in office, ahead of the September 1, 2025 elections.
PNC-led APNU, Aubrey Norton, dismissed concerns about the impact this mass exodus from his party will have on their performance at the upcoming polls.
During his press conference on Friday, Norton was asked if he is concerned about the impact these departures will have on the party’s performance at the upcoming polls.
“Our base is strong,” Norton contended during his press conference on Friday.
“Our party structure is intact; our party base is intact… There will be no neg-
pull three votes.”
The recent crossovers from the PNC include former General Secretary and Opposition Parliamentarian, Geeta Chandan-Edmond; Regional Chairman for Region Four, Daniel Seeram, Vice Chairman for Region Four, Samuel Sandy, and Dr Richard Van-West Charles, who is the son-in-law of former President and founder of the PNC, Linden Forbes Burnham.
Additionally, former PNC members James Bond and Thandi McAllister,
However, Leader of the
ative impact on the party…I don’t believe any of them can
along with former General Secretary of the Guyana
said.
Youth and Student Movement – the youth arm of the PNC, Lance Smith, and former Georgetown Mayor and longstanding PNC member, Patricia Chase-Green, are now supporting the PPP.
However, Norton went on to dismiss the contributions of these politicians to the PNC over the years, noting that “they were not doing work for the party.”
He also described the recent exits from the PNC as “an end of an era when we made bad choices in terms of the people we placed in positions.”
Going forward, Norton said the PNC will be more careful in choosing members for positions.
“What I can assure you is that moving forward, most of the people on the PNC list will be tested and proven PNC persons. When people aren’t tested and proven, then you cannot be assured of their commitment. We will work in naming our next list to ensure there will be new people but we will have a list of people who are committed to [the] party…,” Norton
Meanwhile, the AFC camp has not been spared by the crossovers, with its Regional Democratic Councillor for Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), Ismail Muhammad-Al-Cush, and Chairman of the AFC’s Region Seven Division, David Daniels, recently endorsing President Ali.
At the party’s press conference on Friday, AFC Leader Nigel Hughes also stated that these departures will not impact the party’s performance at the upcoming elections.
“We are unaware of any immediate impact to the persons who are likely to vote for the Alliance For Change… It doesn’t have an impact of our policies. As a matter of fact, a lot of the work – in the case of Mr Daniels, that had been done at the Small Miners Association and the development of mining in Region Seven, was done while he headed the Alliance For Change and most of those policies, he did with the support of persons in the Alliance For Change and re-
main in the Alliance For Change in Region Seven,” Hughes posited.
The AFC leader went on to add, “…we appreciate the work and time and effort of both of them but the proof of the pudding is coming on the 1st of September.”
In addition to crossovers from these two main political parties, leaders of several smaller parties –The Citizenship Initiative (TCI) – Shaz Ally; The New Movement (TNM) Dr Asha Kissoon, and the Liberty and Justice Party (LJP) Lenox Shuman – have also joined the PPP/C ahead of the 2025 polls.
During his weekly press conference on Thursday, PPP General Secretary (GS) noted that these persons from the Opposition camp, who have come forward to endorse President Ali and the PPP for a second term, are witnessing the transformation of the country and want to contribute to this process.
In fact, he dismissed claims that these individuals were promised positions when the PPP wins the upcoming elections, noting that even the current Cabinet Ministers do not know if they will be returning to their offices after the September 1 elections.
“None who came to us has been offered anything,” Jagdeo explained, noting that unlike the Opposition political parties, the PPP does not spend time discussing ‘positions’ but rather, focuses its discourse on policies and strategies that can contribute to the development of the country.
UG collaborates with MMG, One Communications to launch financial project for migrants, low-income citizens
The University of Guyana (UG), through its International Centre for Migration and Diaspora Studies (MiDiAS), has officially launched a Financial Inclusion Project in collaboration with Mobile Money Guyana (MMG) and One Communications, aimed at expanding access to essential financial services for migrants and low-income Guyanese citizens. The project was launched at the Education Lecture Theatre (ELT) at UG’s Turkeyen Campus.
The initiative was created in response to growing challenges faced by under-banked populations, particularly migrants, who often lack access to traditional banking services due to limited identification, financial literacy, and systemic barriers.
By using mobile money platforms and community outreach, the project will enable users to securely conduct transactions, receive payments, pay bills, and manage expenses with-
out needing a conventional bank account.
The initial rollout will focus on underserved communities in Georgetown and Linden, with planned expansions to other regions.
At the launch event held at UG’s Turkeyen Campus, during Money Week 2025, Vice-Chancellor Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin described the initiative as "a path-breaking programme" that aligns with UG’s mission of inclusive development.
“It supports not only UG’s work as a university of service and solution, but it directly benefits those among us, migrants and the under-banked, who are often left behind. This is going to change the lives of many,” she said. The Vice-Chancellor also commended the longstanding collaboration with UG and One Communications.
Representing MiDiAS, Fellow Ms Gillian Williams shared that the project will target unbanked populations starting in
Georgetown and Linden in the first phase.
“Many migrants and informal workers are locked out of the system. We’re going into communities to share practical, secure tools to help them access
the financial system,” she said. Mr Mark Singh, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MMG, emphasised the importance of mobile money platforms in closing gaps in financial access.
“MMG enables users, es-
pecially those without access to traditional banking, to manage transactions with ease, build credit history, and participate in the economy securely,” he explained.
Deputy CEO of One
Communications Guyana, Mr Richard Stanton, said the initiative is about more than just technology. “This project is about creating knowledge, building opportunity, and improving quality of life. We are honoured to work with UG and MMG to help transform lives across Guyana.”
Mr Richard Das, Director of Distribution at MMG, highlighted the platform’s reach, with over 4,000 agents across Guyana, including hinterland and rural areas.
“From salary payments to everyday transactions, our services are mobile, flexible, and increasingly inclusive—even without a traditional bank account,” he noted.
The project will roll out in phases and will include language-accessible features, community-based outreach, and digital literacy support. It is designed to strengthen economic resilience and promote greater equity in access to financial services.
(From left) Dr Coreen Jacobs-Chester, Director of UG’s International Centre for Migration and Diaspora Studies (MiDiAS); Richard Das, Director of Distribution, MMG; Gillian Williams, Fellow, MiDiAS; Richard Stanton, Deputy CEO, One Communications Guyana; Mark Singh, CEO, MMG; and Carl Momplaisir, Partnership Programme Office, One Communications Group
PNC/APNU Leader Aubrey Norton
AFC Leader Nigel Hughes
“We’re
Drug trafficking sanctions
cutting off their profits, securing our borders” – US State Dept official
The United States (US) is tackling international drug trafficking head-on with its recent sanctions on four Guyanese nationals, by cutting off their profits and securing the US borders, according to a senior official at the Department of State.
On Thursday, the US Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned Senior Superintendent of Police Himnauth Sawh along with Paul Daby Jr, Mark Cromwell, and Randolph Duncan – all Guyanese –along with two Colombian nationals, for trafficking tonnes of cocaine from South America to the US, Europe, and the Caribbean.
“@POTUS is confronting international drug trafficking head-on. Today @ USTreasury, supported by @StateDept and other agencies, sanctioned individuals operating cocaine trafficking networks in Guyana. We’re cutting off their profits and securing our borders,” State Department Spokesperson, Tammy Bruce, said in a social media post late Thursday night.
In a statement earlier on Thursday, the State Department said the sanction imposed on the four Guyanese nationals and two Colombian nationals demonstrates strong US’s commitment to combating illicit drug trafficking and protecting the American people.
The US Department of State’s Diplomatic Security
Service (DSS) had supported the investigation by OFAC that resulted in the sanctions, which will see all properties and interests in property of the named individuals in the US or in the possession or control of US persons being blocked.
“This action was in coordination with Homeland Security Investigations, US Customs and Border Protection, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).”
“In particular, DSS and DEA supported Guyanese authorities in the August 2024 discovery of 4.4 tonnes of cocaine buried deep underground in a clandestine airfield in the north-west region of Guyana that shares a border with Venezuela,” the State Department noted.
The Treasury Department had stated on
Thursday that Guyana has been the focus in the last few years of major US law enforcement operations in partnership with Guyanese authorities, resulting in multi-tonne seizures of cocaine.
The most significant of these busts was the August 31, 2024 discovery of the 4.4 tonnes of cocaine, with a street value of over G$40.7 billion, hidden in several bunkers near an illegal airstrip at Matthew’s Ridge in Region One (Barima-Waini).
At the time of the discovery, which is Guyana’s largest narcotics interception to date, Senior Superintendent Sawh was the Police Commander of the BarimaWaini region. According to the Treasury Department, Sawh “…has ensured safe passage to Colombian and Venezuelan traffickers
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, on Tuesday received a courtesy call from Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Suriname and Guyana, Walter Oostelbos.
In a social media post, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) said that the engagement focused on enhancing defence cooperation between the GDF and the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Discussions highlighted the importance of international military
partnerships and mutual understanding in bolstering regional security frameworks.
Both sides expressed keen interest in exploring avenues for training exchanges, capacity building, and strategic collaboration to strengthen ties between their respective defence institutions.
The ambassador was accompanied by Commander (Navy) Geordie Klein, the Kingdom’s Non-Resident Military Attaché.
Commander Klein’s vis-
it also marked part of his farewell tour as he prepares to conclude his tenure in the region. Brigadier Khan extended sincere appreciation for the Commander’s service and his contributions toward advancing defence cooperation between Guyana and the Netherlands. On behalf of the GDF, the CDS wished Commander Klein continued success in his future endeavours.
through Region One.”
The senior cop was removed from the post in Region One shortly after the cocaine discovery last year. Prior to Thursday when he was sent on administrative leave by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) following the sanctions, Sawh was posted at the GPF’s Projects Office.
President Dr Irfaan Ali has already indicated that there will be an investigation locally into the officer’s involvement in the narco-trade ring.
“We have to launch an investigation but we have to have information. So, I’ve spoken to the US Ambassador [to Guyana, Nicole Theriot], and I know the security architecture is also seeking this information,” the Head of State told reporters on the sidelines of
an event Thursday evening.
With regard to the other three sanctioned Guyanese nationals, the Treasury Department stated that Daby Jr and Duncan operate the largest drug trafficking organisations in Guyana, and rely on maritime vessels and aircraft to conceal and traffic cocaine, while also allegedly bribing Guyanese officials to facilitate their drug trafficking operations.
“Daby Jr traffics tonne-quantities of cocaine, coordinating the shipment of loads from Colombia and Venezuela via aircraft, and [is] utilising illegal airstrips in Guyana. Daby Jr also relies on a network of individuals to conceal and transport cocaine in shipping containers from the ports of Guyana and Suriname. Daby Jr is also involved in the transporting of illegal gold from Guyana via maritime vessels. Duncan traffics cocaine from Guyana to Africa and the Caribbean, with Europe and the United States as the ultimate destinations,” the US officials stated.
Meanwhile, it was noted that Cromwell, also a former Police officer, is a violent drug trafficker and associate of Daby Jr Cromwell is wanted by the GPF for his connection to the 2024 abduction of a former Guyanese police officer.
According to the Treasury Department, the
two sanctioned Colombian nationals, Yeison Andres Sanchez Vallejo and Manuel Salazar Gutierrez, are responsible for overseeing the clandestine airstrips used to transport tonne-quantities of cocaine via aircraft from Colombia to Guyana.
The Guyana Government, through the Home Affairs Ministry, on Thursday welcomed the sanctions as part of efforts to clamp down on Guyana being used as a transshipment point for drugs trafficking.
The Ministry noted that in addition to the senior cop being sent on admin leave, further action will certainly follow. It said the Attorney General’s (AG) Office will also request details from OFAC to facilitate further investigations locally and guide the actions of the Police Service Commission as well as the Guyana Government.
Nevertheless, the Home Affairs Ministry further committed to continue working with the US and other counterparts in the fight against drug trafficking.
The US State Department had noted that its Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs provided specialised training under the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative to several of Guyana’s specialised counternarcotics units that participated in the successful operations to crackdown on illicit trade.
COTED to convene 60th Regular Meeting in Georgetown
The sixtieth (60th) Regular Meeting of the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) is sched uled to take place in Georgetown, Guyana, next week, under the chairmanship of the Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of Barbados, Kerrie Symmonds.
The CARICOM SecretaryGeneral, Dr Carla Barnett and the COTED Chair will pro vide remarks at the opening session of the Meeting.
of Origin and reports from the Monitoring Mechanisms
According to a release from CARICOM on Friday, the agenda of the Meeting to be held on June 10 and 11, is packed with critical trade matters including the proposed implementation of the revised Common External Tarriff (CET), progress of the Sectoral Working Group reviewing CARICOM Rules
on sugar, cement and rice.
CARICOM Ministers will also address compliance with the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas and decisions of COTED as CARICOM works to enhance the operations of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME).
Other key discus-
sions will centre around a draft Industrial Policy and Strategy for 2025-2030, and issues related to the free movement of Community nationals. An update will also be provided on a recently commissioned consultancy to assess the impact and potential benefits of the CSME. This study is being funded by the European Union (EU) under the 11th European Development Fund (EDF).
Additionally, the Council will review several external trade matters, including developments at the World Trade Organisation (WTO), implications of the America First Trade Policy for CARICOM trade and economic prospects, and negotiations to expand preferential market access under the Agreement on Trade, Economic and Technical Cooperation between CARICOM and the Government of Colombia.
Regional
Officials: Environmental disaster averted in Barbados’ first major oil spill
Barbados faced its first-ever crude oil spill of this nature early Friday morning, prompting an all-hands emergency response that officials say helped prevent what could have been a far worse environmental disaster.
The incident also prompted temporary closure of parts of the Oistins commercial district.
Acting Prime Minister Santia Bradshaw confirmed that the spill, which occurred around 1 a.m. near the Barbados National Energy Company Ltd. (BNECL)’s facility, where crude oil is processed and exported, marked an unprecedented environmental threat for the country.
“This is the first oil spill of this nature that we have seen in the country,” Bradshaw told reporters at the scene. “Thanks to
has been successfully contained
the quick action of the Bay Garden team and the coordinated effort of emergency agencies, we were able to contain what could have been a far more serious situation.”
She credited staff at the Bay Garden for detecting the leak and immediately using sand to block the spread of crude oil toward the road and nearby coastline, stating, “Their respon-
siveness ensured all of the various teams across the country were able to be mobilised.”
Officials say the leak originated from BNECL’s pumping facility at Fairy Valley, which was in the process of exporting crude oil to a waiting tanker offshore. The exact cause of the leak has not yet been confirmed as investigations continue. (Excerpt from Barbados Today
Belize teachers to appear in court
for industrial action activities
At least 11 teachers are due to appear before the Dangriga Magistrate’s Court on June 11 after they were charged in connection with blocking roads last Wednesday, as teachers took to the streets in support of salary increases.
The Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU) has defended its decision to shut down major roads and bring traffic to a standstill as negotiations with the government over salary increases appear to have hit a snag.
The teachers are seeking an 8.5 per cent salary increase.
Police have since laid charges of obstructing police officers in the line of duty against the union members and teachers, including union activist Ifasina Efunyemi.
Guatemala’s
The Belize Police Department said it is reviewing the law to determine what charges, if any, could be brought against the other protesting teachers.
“We decided to take the opportunity to raise concerns with the public about our fight with the government over our 8.5 per cent salary adjustment, over the fact that we had frozen increments that are owed to us, the high cost of living, the high inflation rate and so on,” said Efunyemi.
“And so, we took the opportunity to give out fliers to people who were nearby and we were just there, actually talking with each other and seeing how we could support and assist each other. The police, they were already aware that this was happening and they appeared on the scene immediately, actu-
ally, and they just stood on the side and they were looking at us.
“They saw that we were just there peacefully, talking with each other; until the senior officers came on the scene. When they came on the scene the situation escalated because they brought a tow truck. They didn’t offer any mechanical support,” she added.
Efunyemi said she is disappointed that the police have laid charges against the teachers.
“It’s shameful that they would take that position. Imagine, scouring our laws to find how to stand against the very people that are standing for them, you see. And I see that as simply political manipulation. That’s all that boils down to,” she added. (Source: Loop Caribbean News)
“Volcano of Fire” sends ash, lava flowing as hundreds flee
Guatemalan authorities have ordered the evacuation of hundreds of people, after Central America’s most active volcano spewed gas and ash thousands of metres into the sky.
At least 700 residents – including those from five communities in the Chimaltenango, Escuintla and Sacatepequez areas near the volcano – were told to move to shelters, the country’s disaster agency said on Friday.
The National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (CONRED) said late on Thursday that Volcan de
Fuego (Volcano of Fire) emitted hot gases and volcanic matter up to 7km (4 miles) from the site of the eruption. The volcano is located some 35km (22 miles) from the capital, Guatemala City.
In a report shortly after midnight on Friday, Guatemala’s National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology, and Hydrology (INSIVUMEH) said a lava flow could be seen stretching to around 1.2km.
“This continues to accumulate in an unstable manner around the crater and in the high parts of the ravines,
which could collapse and cause more pyroclastic flows,” it said.
Authorities said they continued to monitor the situation.
Images posted on social media showed fiery lava flowing from the volcano and a mix of ash, rocks and water raging down the volcano’s slopes following the eruption.
CONRED said the mix of ash and gas spewing into the sky was affecting several communities situated to the northwest, west, and southwest of the volcano. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
Antigua Cabinet approves pardons for cannabis, COVID violations, involvement in prison programme
Antigua and Barbuda’s Cabinet has authorized sweeping criminal justice reforms that will expunge the records of individuals convicted for small-scale cannabis possession and grant pardons to prisoners demonstrating rehabilitation through a government housing program.
The Cabinet has directed the Attorney General and Ministry of Legal Affairs to draft legislation for the next parliamentary session that will clear the criminal records of individuals convicted for possessing less than 15 grams of cannabis and grant them official pardons.
The proposed legislation will also extend to individuals convicted un -
der the Public Health Amendment Act during the Covid-19 pandemic, clearing their records as well.
In a separate but related decision, Cabinet agreed that Prime Minister Gaston Browne will advise the Governor General to exercise constitutional authority under Section 84(1) of the Constitution to pardon individuals currently serving sentences at His Majesty’s Prison who are actively engaged in the HAPPI Programme and have demonstrated genuine rehabilitation.
The HAPPI (Home Advancement Program for the Poor and Indigent) initiative aims to improve living conditions for vulnerable families, includ -
ing single-parent households, the elderly, and the disabled by providing free housing.
Cabinet emphasized that the criminal records of pardoned individuals will be expunged, “allowing them a fresh start and an opportunity to continue contributing positively to society.”
The government described the action as aligning with the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party’s commitment to rehabilitation and reintegration.
Prisoners who receive pardons will be immediately offered full-time employment within the HAPPI Programme, according to the Cabinet decision. (Excerpt from Loop Caribbean News)
PM Kamla warns Venezuelan leader: T&T off limits
...says deadly force will be used
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has issued a direct warning to the Venezuelan government: Trinidad and Tobago’s territory is off limits. And she has also made it clear T&T is standing with the United States on its policies against the Nicolás Maduro regime.
“Today, I want to make it very clear to the Venezuelan government and officials that they can do whatever they want on Venezuelan territory, but they cannot come here. T&T territory is off limits to them,” she declared during a post-Cabinet media briefing at the Red House, Port-of-Spain.
She added, “No amount of rhetoric from the Maduro government will drive any wedge between this UNC-led government and the US government. We stand solidly with the American government on the issues concerning Venezuela. That will not change.”
Her remarks followed claims by Venezuela Justice Minister Diosdado Cabello, who alleged on his programme Con El Mazo Dando that a Trinidadian national, whom he named as “Guis Kendell Jerome,” had been captured while travelling to Venezuela
with a group labelled “terrorists” in an attempt to destabilise that government.
Cabello alleged that T&T had become a “launchpad” for mercenaries and provocateurs, and sarcastically warned that the man’s identity might later be “distorted” into that of a missionary or athlete.
Speaking later at a public event, Cabello added, “There must be justice. We are going after the gangs, wherever they are… Together, we will guarantee peace in this country.”
Yesterday, however, Prime Minister PersadBissessar flatly rejected the accusations.
“We have no evidence to validate this at this point,” she said, referring to the reports in Venezuelan and local media.
“Again, we have seen no evidence to support the comments from these Venezuelan officials.”
She described Cabello’s threats as politically motivated and warned that her Government would treat any incursion as an act of aggression.
“If Mr Cabello’s comments are a real threat to enter T&T territory, they should reconsider any such intention. As a responsi -
ble Government, we have to take all threats against any incursion into our territory seriously.”
Persad-Bissessar announced plans to consult the Minister of Defence and Attorney General regarding protection measures.
“I will speak to the Minister of Defence and the Attorney General to seek advice on protections for our Coast Guard to use deadly force on any unidentified vessel entering T&T waters from Venezuela.”
(Excerpt from Trinidad &Tobago Guardian)
Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar addresses members of the media at Thursday’s post-Cabinet briefing at the Red House
BNECL has confirmed that the oil spill in Oistins, Christ Church,
Around the World
CNEWS
Crude climbs on US jobs report, China talks
rude rose more than $1 a barrel on Friday morning and oil prices were on track for their first weekly gain in three weeks after a favorable U.S. jobs report and resumed trade talks between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping, raising hopes for growth in the world's two largest economies.
Brent crude futures gained $1.28, or 1.96%, to $66.62 a barrel by 1649 GMT. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude climbed $1.34, or 2.11%, to $64.71.
On a weekly basis, both benchmarks were on track to settle higher after declining for two straight weeks. Brent has advanced 2.75% this week, while WTI is trading 4.9% higher.
"I think the jobs report was Goldilocks," said Phil Flynn, senior analyst with the Price Futures Group. "It was not too hot, not too cold but just right to increase the chances for an interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve."
The U.S. Labor Department's monthly employment report showed the unemployment rate held steady at 4.2% last month.
Flynn also said the planned output hike announced by OPEC+ to begin in July would likely be absorbed by higher demand, keeping supply tightly balanced with demand.
China's official Xinhua news agency said trade talks between Xi and Trump took place at Washington's request on Thursday.
The oil market continued to swing with news on tariff negotiations and data showing how trade uncertainty and the impact of the U.S. levies are flowing through into the global economy. (Excerpt from Reuters)
North Korea refloats warship after failed launch
North Korea has reportedly refloated a warship after it capsized during a launch attempt, in an incident that drew harsh criticism from the country's leader Kim Jong Un.
State-run news agency KCNA reported on Friday that the warship had "safely entered the water vertically" and had then been "moored at the pier".
It is expected to be fully repaired before a key meeting led by Kim which top officials in the one-party state will attend, KCNA said.
The 5,000-tonne destroyer can be seen upright at the pier and then about three hours later, "floating in the harbour" in satellite images published by specialist news sites 38 North and NK News.
Russia bombards Kyiv after Putin vows revenge for Operation Spiderweb
Russia launched an intense missile and drone barrage at Kyiv overnight after Vladimir Putin vowed to respond to Ukraine’s Operation Spiderweb attack on some of the Kremlin’s nuclear-capable bombers.
The Ukrainian president wrote in a social media post: “If someone does not put pressure and gives the war more time to take lives, they are complicit and responsible. We need to act decisively.”
Missiles and drones hammered the Ukrainian capital leading fires to rage through residential buildings and forcing the local metro system to close after a train was hit.
It was part of a nationwide assault that ranks
among the largest coordinated attacks in the three years of full-scale war, with 44 ballistic and cruise missiles and 407 drones launched. About 50 people were injured across the country.
Yurii Ihnat, the Ukrainian air force spokesperson, said Ukrainian forces had shot down about 30 of the cruise missiles and up to 200 of the drones.
Russia’s defence ministry said its forces had carried out the overnight attacks in response to what it called Ukrainian “terrorist acts” against Russia. The Kremlin later described its three-year invasion of Ukraine as “existential” for Russia, casting it as nothing short of a battle for the “future” of Russia.
Despite the efforts of
Ukraine’s air defences, the authorities in Kyiv reported that three emergency workers had been killed and 20 people wounded, of whom 16 had been hospitalised.
“Search and rescue operations are ongoing at several locations,” Kyiv’s mayor, Vitali Klitschko, said on Telegram. (Excerpt from The Guardian)
Group stranded with ICE in Djibouti shipping container after removal from US
Agroup of men removed from the US to Djibouti, in east Africa, are stranded in a converted shipping container together with the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers sent to supervise them, after a deportation flight to South Sudan was stopped by an American court.
The eight deportees and 13 Ice staff have begun to “feel ill”, the US govern -
ment said.
Eight men, from Latin America, Asia and South Sudan, and the Ice staff, have been stuck at a US naval base since late May. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said that the Ice officers began to fall ill “within 72 hours of landing” in Djibouti, and continue to suffer from suspected bacterial upper respiratory infections.
European Union backs ICC after US sanctions on court judges
The European Union “deeply regrets” the United States sanctions placed on four judges at the International Criminal Court (ICC), European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen has said.
The effort to right the ship, which had happened on Thursday, was a manual process, researchers at 38 North said, noting that satellite imaging showed workers on the quay pulling tethers and using barrage balloons to bring the vessel back to balance.
Kim, who witnessed the warship tipping over during the failed launch about two weeks ago, had criticised the incident as a "criminal act" that "severely damaged the [country's] dignity and pride".
At least four officials, including Ri Hyong-son, the deputy director of the ruling Workers' Party's Munitions Industry Department, have been arrested over the incident. (Excerpt from BBC News)
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday announced sanctions on four judges whom the US accuses of taking “illegitimate and baseless actions” against the US and its allies.
Responding to the announcement on Friday, von der Leyen said the Haguebased court had the “full support” of the EU.
“The ICC holds perpetrators of the world’s gravest crimes to account & gives victims a voice,” von der Leyen said on X on Friday. “It must be free to act without pressure.”
United Nations Human Rights Chief Volker Turk said he was “profoundly disturbed” by the US decision.
“Attacks against judges for performance of their judicial functions, at national or in-
ternational levels, run directly counter to respect for the rule of law and the equal protection of the law – values for which the US has long stood,” Turk said.
“Such attacks are deeply corrosive of good governance and the due administration of justice,” he added, calling for the sanctions to be withdrawn.
The US State Department said the sanctions were issued after the court made decisions to issue an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and a separate decision in 2020 to open an investigation into alleged war crimes by US troops in Afghanistan.
The four sanctioned judges include Solomy Balungi Bossa of Uganda, Luz del Carmen Ibanez Carranza of Peru, Reine Alapini-Gansou of Benin and Beti Hohler of Slovenia.
EU member Slovenia said it “rejects pressure on judicial institutions” and urged the EU to use its blocking statute.
(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
The Trump administration had attempted to send the eight detainees, who it said had been convicted of criminal offenses, to South Sudan, but a judge intervened to stop their flight in May, arguing that they were entitled to challenge the deportation in the courts.
The Trump administration had attempted to send the eight men to their home countries of Myanmar, Cuba, Vietnam, Laos, Mexico and South Sudan. Those countries
declined to accept them, however, and US authorities then arranged to fly them to South Sudan in late May.
Brian Murphy, a US district judge in Boston, intervened, ruling that the administration had “unquestionably” violated his earlier order, issued in April, which ruled that anyone facing deportation to third-party countries had the right to challenge it legally. (Excerpt from The Guardian)
Trump to sell his Tesla amid bitter row with Musk
Donald Trump is planning to sell the White House Tesla amid a bitter row with Elon Musk.
Mr Trump bought a red Model S Tesla in March when Mr Musk brought a range of his fleet to the White House for the president to peruse.
The purchase was a show of support for Mr Musk’s business at a time when his shares were tumbling, with Mr Trump declaring the car a “great product” and “as good as it gets”.
However, a senior administration official told NewsNation that Mr Trump now planned to sell or give away the car, which is currently parked at the White House and used by staff.
Mr Musk spent hundreds of millions of dollars on the president’s re-election campaign before assuming a senior role in his government, but the two men have fallen out, primarily because of disagreements over Mr Trump’s tax-and-spend Bill.
On Thursday, Mr Trump suggested the Tesla billionaire had developed “Trump derangement syndrome”, while Mr Musk suggested he should be impeached and would cause the US to go into recession.
The president continued the war of words on Friday when he claimed Mr Musk had “lost his mind”, despite officials claiming he was “over” their public spat. (Excerpt from The Telegraph UK)
This satellite image shows a re-floated North Korean destroyer after it suffered a failed launch while being put to sea in Chongjin, North Korea, on Thursday (CNN)
Firefighters extinguish a fire in Kyiv after the Russian drone-andmissile attack
SUDOKU
You are better off than you realize. Observe, and you’ll see a path forward that can help you get involved in something essential to reaching your goals.
Taking risks will leave you in a weak position. Whether it’s a physical, financial or emotional chance you take, expect to face last-minute changes. Too much of anything will work against you.
Speak up and stand behind your word. Protect and take care of your home and take advantage of any efficiency-related rebates available.
Stay focused on what’s important to you, and finish what you start. Social events will lead to interesting connections that can offer insight into how you can avoid setbacks.
Refuse to let stubbornness become your downfall. Put ego aside and show resilience, integrity and foresight. If you play it cool, you will receive the support you require to reach your destination.
Say a little, do a lot. The less conspicuous you are, the easier it will be to address your agenda. You are overdue for a change, so visit a place that inspires you.
Updating your skills and qualifications, attending a networking function and engaging in discussions that offer insight into trends will help you make wise choices. Expand your mind and your long-term goals.
Emotions will surface regarding your relationships. Limit spending, overreacting and joint ventures. Concentrate on how you look and feel, and choose a path that offers peace of mind.
Get into the swing of things, attend functions that make you happy or spend time with someone who makes your heart flutter. Changes at home will encourage you to reevaluate what’s important to you.
You’ll meet with opposition, denial and false information. Hasty decisions will lead to regret and lifestyle issues. Distance yourself from those tempting you with indulgent suggestions.
Make your surroundings more efficient. Personal and financial gains are apparent. A social event will lead to interesting concepts you can integrate into your lifestyle.
Verify everything you hear before passing it along or incorporating that information into your plans. When in doubt, take a pass and protect your interests.
ARCHIE
Jos Buttler 96, Liam Dawson 4-for set up England victory
Jos Buttler began life back in the ranks of England’s T20 International side by making his highest score on home soil, his supremely-calculated innings of 96 from 59 providing a reassuring touch of quality to a new-look batting order. Liam Dawson then marked his return to England duty after more than two years out of the side with his best return in any format, figures of 4 for 20 putting the skids under West Indies in the chase.
Buttler scored almost exactly half of England’s runs, but did most of the heavy lifting to give his successor, Harry Brook, a largely-comfortable first outing as T20I Captain.
Jamie Smith and Jacob Bethell were the only other batters to make double figures on a lop-sided scorecard, but West Indies paid for a profligate start with the ball that allowed England to race away to 78 for 1 at the end of the powerplay.
Run-scoring became harder thereafter on a Chester-le-Street surface that was unusually receptive to slow bowling –something England had twigged by only including two seamers in their XI.
Having notched a half-cen-
tury from 25 balls, Buttler added 46 from his next 34 as partners came and went, but did enough to steer England to an above-par total.
West Indies struggled to get going in reply. Dawson opened the bowling and made the breakthrough in his second over, luring Johnson Charles from his ground, before Matthew Potts removed West Indies Captain, Shai Hope, with his second ball on debut. Evin Lewis briefly threatened to fire up the chase during an over from Bethell than cost 24 – but he was caught in the deep from the final ball, and when Dawson claimed the wickets of Sherfane Rutherford and Roston Chase in the space of three balls, the jig was as good as up.
Dawson steps up on return It is only just over a year since Dawson seemed to have turned his back on international cricket, after 20 sporadic appearances across formats since his debut in 2016. He was overlooked for the Test tour of India, and seemed happy to embrace a future on the T20 franchise circuit rather than carrying drinks for England.
However, his continued excellence for Hampshire,
coupled with the retirement of Moeen Ali and the decision to drop Liam Livingstone, opened up a window of opportunity with the T20I side. He grasped it with both hands on a chilly Friday night in Durham. His first over was Spandex tight, giving up just three runs; his second saw off Charles with a classic onetwo, following a speared-in delivery with one that was beautifully flighted.
West Indies had been 44 for 2 at the end of the powerplay, but recovered somewhat to be 91 for 3 at halfway, needing 98 more. A tight over from Adil Rashid pushed the required run rate above 10, and then Dawson returned to take the guts out of the innings. Rutherford and Chase were caught in the deep before Rovman Powell was castled by one that skidded through from round the wicket. Afterwards, Dawson admitted to nerves on making his comeback –but by that stage he was holding the Player-of-theMatch Award.
England stick to Smith opening gambit
With Phil Salt on paternity leave, England opted to simply plug in his replacement at opener. Smith had auditioned for the job
the leg side – two cross-batted, two ramps – as another 23 went on the scoreboard to leave England 78 for 1 after six.
Buttler does Buttler things
with a 25-ball fifty opening the batting in the Oval One-Day International (ODI) on Tuesday, and was preferred up top to Tom Banton, back in the side for the first time since January 2022, but asked to bat out of position at number five.
With England opting to put runs on the board, Smith had a clear brief –one he set about putting into action as he charged Jason Holder from the off to pick off three boundaries in the opening over. While Ben Duckett fell to the third ball of the second, duped by Romario Shepherd’s offcutter to send a leading edge behind, that only brought Buttler out to the middle. After a brief period of reconnaissance, the second-wicket pairing went pedal to the metal to ensure England got what they wanted from the powerplay.
Andre Russell, back in the side after being injured against England in November, was greeted by Buttler reverse-scooping his first ball for four to start the fifth over. Smith twice launched Russell disdainfully for six over longon in an over that cost 22 – but worse was to come for West Indies. Alzarri Joseph repeatedly missed his lengths as Buttler crunched 6-6-4-6 through
The introduction of Gudakesh Motie brought an immediate slowdown, and signalled that spin could play a more significant role than expected. Motie bowled four boundary-less overs off the reel, while Shepherd returned to remove Smith, who holed out to deep midwicket after being forced to hit square. Brook was bowled by Chase the ball after reverse-slapping him for four, while Banton fell lbw to a marginal call against Russell as England slipped to 116 for 4.
They were grateful for the skill and experience of Buttler in navigating a path through the middle
overs. Having notched his fifty in the eighth, he prioritised knocking the ball around with the field out. England had rattled off 11 boundaries during the powerplay, but only managed six more during the second half of the innings; Buttler hit four of them, including another audacious reverse-swat off Shepherd. An edged four to deep third moved him to 95, but Joseph had his revenge in the same over when pinning him in front, the lbw decision confirmed via umpire’s call on DRS. The Chester-le-Street crowd groaned in unison as Graham Lloyd’s finger went up, and Buttler missed out on adding a second T20I hundred to the one he made in Sharjah at the 2021 World Cup. But for England under their new captain, it was pretty much job done. (ESPNcricinfo)
Liam Dawson had Johnson Charles stumped
Jos Buttler played an excellent innings
The Guyana Under-19 cricket team will continue its preparation for the upcoming Cricket West Indies (CWI) Regional Under-19 Tournament with its second weekend encampment, which was scheduled to begin on Friday afternoon (June 6) and run through Sunday (June 8) at the Essequibo Hostel, located in the scenic Cinderella County.
Both the first and second encampments have been held in Essequibo as part of the Guyana Cricket Board’s (GCB) effort to decentralise its development programmes and create balanced opportunities for youth cricketers across the country.
Speaking ahead of the encampment, Head Coach Garvin Nedd emphasised
Guyana U19 slated for 2nd encampment in Essequibo
the importance of continuing the team’s physical and technical work while beginning to instil greater tactical awareness and match intelligence.
“This weekend we’ll continue the physical preparation, but we’re also moving into fine-tuning technical areas — especially batting and bowling,” said Nedd. “We’ve already begun introducing game sense and situational awareness so the players
understand what we want to achieve as a unit in this year’s tournament.”
Reflecting on the previous encampment, Nedd noted that while inclement weather limited some of the outdoor sessions, he was pleased with the level of skill displayed, particularly by the batsmen.
“The batters showed solid technique in the sessions we had access to. While we couldn’t do as much with
Akeal Hosein out of T20I opener after failing to secure UK visa
Akeal Hosein, West Indies’ left-arm spinner, has been ruled out of the opening match of the T20 International (T20I) series against England that got underway in Chester-leStreet on Friday evening –and potentially the entire series – after he and his fellow Trinidadian, Jyd Goolie, were unable to secure the necessary visas to enter the United Kingdom.
Both men were unable to travel to the country following recent changes to UK visa entry requirements for Trinidad and Tobago citizens, which came into effect on April 23 and May 12, 2025. These changes required both players to submit visa applications and attend mandatory in-person appointments.
However, Hosein was unable to meet these requirements after being given permission by Cricket West Indies (CWI) to remain with Quetta Gladiators until the conclusion of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) late last month.
Goolie, meanwhile, had been named as a late replacement for West Indies’ tour of Ireland last month, in the wake of Roston Chase’s appointment as Test Captain, but was unable to secure a visa waiver at such short notice.
Chase had been due to leave for a training camp in Barbados, ahead of the forthcoming home series against
Australia, but has instead been retained in the T20I squad for the duration of the England series.
Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, explained the situation. “As soon as the updated visa requirements were announced, CWI began the necessary application processes,” he said. “This was only possible after Akeal returned to Trinidad, and following the confirmation of Jyd’s selection to the Ireland squad.
“Akeal, who was selected for both the England and Ireland legs of the tour, was granted permission to fulfil his commitments with the extended Pakistan Super League until mid-May.
“Jyd was called up for the Ireland series … however, [he] was unable to secure the required visa waiver, as the
transition period for Trinidad and Tobago residents had already expired.”
CWI confirmed that formal efforts had been made to expedite the process for both players. “These processes are ultimately governed by UK immigration authorities and remain outside of CWI’s control. CWI remains optimistic that the matter will be resolved in the coming days, allowing Hosein to join the squad for the remaining matches.”
The situation comes in the wake of concerns raised by Major League Cricket about the potential exclusion of Afghanistan cricketers from this season’s tournament, which begins on June 12, following a recent travel ban implemented by the Trump Administration.
far,” he added.
Looking ahead, the Coach remains cautiously optimistic about the group’s progress.
“We’re hoping the weather holds up so we can get in more match scenarios and practical sessions. These players are talented, and many of them I’ve watched from the U17 level. It’s now about ensuring they understand their roles clearly and come together as a cohesive unit.”
Team Manager Nazeer Mohammed also shared his perspective, noting that while the first encampment was affected by heavy rainfall, it still served its purpose in building team spirit and laying the foundation.
the wicketkeepers, pacers, and spinners due to the conditions, we made the most of the facilities available. Overall, I’m quite impressed with the skill set shown so
“We were hit with rain during the last encampment, but still managed some solid physical work at the new stadium in the morning.
Coach Nedd also did one-onone technical sessions,” said Mohammed. “This time, the
GCB has taken extra steps to minimise disruptions, including protecting the practice nets area so we can get in more batting and bowling drills.”
The GCB has also made a bowling machine available to provide quality, targeted batting practice throughout the weekend. Mohammed praised the players’ attitude and commitment, noting that their enthusiasm boded well for the tournament ahead.
“What stood out was the commitment. Despite limited on-field time, these boys were eager, disciplined, and fully locked in. They’re listening, learning, and showing the right attitude to represent Guyana proudly at the regional level.”
This second encampment forms part of an ongoing development programme aimed at refining player performance and finalising the squad for the regional showdown.
HMS Mining Inc supports One Guyana King and Queen of the Sand
Located in Amelia’s Ward in the bauxite mining town of Linden, HMS Mining Inc is the latest corporate entity to come on board with tangible support for the One Guyana King and Queen of the Sand Football tournament currently ongoing in Linden.
Aubrey “Shanghai” Major, organiser of the competition, which has attracted eight female and 20 male teams, visited the sponsor’s office where three of the principal officers handed over the sponsorship cheque.
Executive Secretary DeYi Lin made the presentation to Major, stating that HMS Mining Inc was happy to lend support to the competition which features dozens of players, including females and young people.
“We are happy to be backing a tournament
of this nature which creates the space and time for youths to showcase their talent and in the process, they can earn some incentives. More importantly though, it helps to build the community in a positive way, which is important. We wish all the teams the very best,” the Executive Secretary said.
Major, in response thanked her and her company for their support, including Managing Directors Hualeng Liang and Jie Lin.
“We are more than grateful to your company for this support, which will add more value to this competition. It is always great to see companies within communities giving back to activities such as these and we say thank you.”
A total of seven matches – two matches in the queen’s competition and five in the king’s segment – are card-
Football
Civic (PPP/C) Linden office ground.
ed for Saturday night commencing from 18:00h at the People’s Progressive Party/
HMS Mining Inc Executive Secretary De-Yi Lin hands over the sponsorship cheque to Aubrey “Shanghai” Major in the presence of Managing Directors Hualeng Liang and Jie Lin
Akeal Hosein had been at the PSL, and was unable to attend an in-person visa appointment
Guyana’s U19 team will benefit from a second encampment weekend
Head Coach Garvin Nedd
Dane Cleaver ready for GSL Challenge
“It’s exciting to be part of a new tournament with so much potential,” says Cleaver
Central Stags’ aggressive opener and wicketkeeper Dane Cleaver is all fired up for his Caribbean debut, as he and his teammates gear up for their inaugural ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) appearance – a thrilling T20 showdown bringing together some of the world’s top domestic teams.
Cleaver, no stranger to pressure after representing New Zealand in 10 internationals, sees this as a golden
opportunity to showcase his game on a global stage.
“There is just a lot of excitement, really. The opportunity to play some cricket in our winter. It’s an exciting tournament, new tournament, but a lot of potential. And for us getting overseas and playing in some different conditions against some world-class players, it’s an exciting opportunity. The boys are pumped.”
The Central Stags, fresh off their Super Smash triumph, are turning up the heat as they prepare for their first clash – a high-voltage day game against the Dubai Capitals on July 10. “It’s an
amazing opportunity for the Central Districts Cricket Association and their legacy, and as an association to get some exposure worldwide and a great opportunity for the players.
“We’ve got the likes of New Zealand’s all-format maestro Will Young; our seasoned Captain Tom Bruce, who’s played in multiple leagues; the ever-reliable international fast bowler Blair Tickner, and a bunch of young guns who are eager to light up the stage,” Cleaver said. “There’s going to be plenty of talent on show for the locals to enjoy.”
The GSL is more than
Saturday night fever at CASH as 6 more teams to book 2nd-round slots
Futsal fans are in for another exciting night of skill and endurance as night three of the inaugural June Madness Futsal Championship is set to unfold at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall from 20:00h.
Given the fact that this championship, powered by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and ANSA McAL is being played using the knock-out format, it’s all to play for from the start of the matches.
Another exciting feature is the yellow ball which can be requested by either team four minutes after the games commence and six minutes before the action concludes. A goal scored within the two-minute life of the yellow ball by either team shall be counted as two.
One team have been successful to date with the yellow ball, Albouystown A through Ezikiel Telford, who ended the match with a helmet-trick in their 9-0 whipping of Campbellville.
Tonight’s opening clash will see Stevedore Ballers challenging Westside Ballers. From 20:45h, Mocha Red Force will throw down the gauntlet to fellow East Bank side Timehri Warriors, followed by Linden All Star against Show Stoppers.
Gaza Squad will then take centre stage when they come up against Gladiators with the penultimate showdown of the night featuring Real Sport and Kitty Hustlers. The night’s main attraction is between North Ruimveldt and Team Family.
Five more teams booked their spots in the next round following wins on Thursday
A look at the action from Night 2 of the June Madness Futsal competition
night at the same venue. Following are those results:
Match 1
Make It Happen 2 v Street Vybz 0
Jahno Jeran 5th
Jafet George 30th
Match 2
Kingston 4 v Finishers 1
Ezekiel David 2nd, 5th, 13th Medino
Christian 24th
Shuwabe Hutson 10th
Match 3
Agricola Ballers 0 v YMCA 5 Kevin Gittens
4th, 23rd
Nicholas Gentle 7th
Kymani Sealey 21st
Jonathan Simon 26th
Match 4
Unity Ballers 2 v Spaniards 5
Joshua Kamal 3rd Shakac Louis 7th, 20th
Cleyon Forrester 18th
Cummings 2nd
Gordon 28th
Match 5
just another tournament – it’s a launchpad. For the Stags, it’s a chance to break new ground, and for Cleaver, it’s about seizing the moment and staying ready for what’s next.
“You’ve got to be open to the idea of playing globally, and this league can open a lot of doors. But at the same time, it’s about staying grounded, focusing on the now, and giving everything one game at a time.”
This marks the first-ever Caribbean trip for Cleaver and most of the Stags squad, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Not just for the team, but for New Zealand cricket and the individual futures of these tal-
ented players. “On a personal note, I’m very excited. I love watching cricket over in the Caribbean and have not been fortunate enough to manage to get there in my career so far. So, it’s exciting to get over there and hopefully just immerse myself in the culture and play in some different conditions against some world-class players.”
“It’ll be pretty special to walk away as Global Super League champions,” Cleaver admits. The Global Super League is in its second season. It is a bold new venture, pitting franchise champions from around the world in a single electrify-
ing tournament. This year’s line-up features the reigning champs Rangpur Riders (Bangladesh); Hobart Hurricanes XI (Australia); Dubai Capitals (United Arab Emirates); Central Stags (New Zealand), and the home crowd favourites, the Guyana Amazon Warriors of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). The tournament will be played in a single round-robin format, culminating in a fierce final between the top two teams at the iconic Guyana National Stadium in Providence. Expect passion, fire, and high-octane cricket – this is not one to miss.
CM Khan retains National Open Chess title in convincing fashion
Candidate Master (CM) Taffin Khan has successfully defended his title at the 2025 Guyana Chess Federation National Open Chess Championships, playing undefeated and finishing ahead of his challengers with an impressive eight out of nine points, including two draws.
The prestigious round-robin classic-style tournament took place from May 24 to June 1 at the David Rose Special Needs School on Thomas Lands and the School of the Nations. The event featured 10 participants: the top nine qualifiers from the National Open Championship Qualifiers and the defending champion, CM Taffin Khan.
Tyreck
Teshawn
Sophia Ballers 2 v Laing Avenue 3
Isiah Jack 17th
Matthew Nedd 13th, 30+5
Richie Richards 30+9 (P) Kenroy Domonic
30+9
Game decided in extra time
Khan showcased excellent form throughout the event, navigating a competitive field of seasoned players and rising stars. Finishing closely behind him in second place was 15-year-old Kyle Couchman, who earned 7.5 points. In the crucial round eight confrontation between
Khan and Couchman, the defending champion scored a brilliant victory over his challenger. In a carefully-executed attack, Khan sacrificed his Bishop followed by his Queen in a stunning raid that began on move 23 to breach his opponent King’s defences. Khan’s well-coordinated pieces continued the aggression and Couchman was forced to concede the loss on move 46, ending the hopes of all other challengers in the Championships.
Fourteen-year-old CM
Sachin Pitamber secured third place with 6.5 points, reflecting a strong showing. Pitamber successfully drew his game with Khan in round six.
Alexander Zhang and Keron Sandiford ended with 5 points each, with Zhang taking the higher position due to the tiebreak. Sandiford drew his game with Khan in round nine.
Veteran player CM Ronuel Greenidge placed sixth, followed closely by the tournament’s only female participant, Woman Candidate
Master (WCM) Aditi Joshi.
Rounding out the top 10 were Rolex Alexander and Joshua Gopaul, who brought competitive spirit and resilience to the event. Reigning Junior Chess Champion Ricardo Narine opted out of the tournament in the early phase of the competition.
The GCF wished to extend its heartfelt gratitude to the Tournament Director, FIDE Arbiter John Lee, who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that all games were conducted in accordance with the rules and regulations and that the games were streamed live on Lichess.org.
The GCF also thanked the David Rose Special School and the School of the Nations for providing the venue for the tournament over the past weeks.
Ronuel Greenidge
Aditi Joshi, Sachin Pitamber, Rolex Alexander and Ronuel Greenidge in action
