President Ali vows unyielding protection of Guyana’s sovereignty
Oil Pollution Bill 2025 signals Govt’s commitment to environment – PM
…legislation to strengthen national oil spill preparedness, response, accountability …Opposition refuses to support Bill
Oil Pollution Bill 2025 signals Govt's commitment to environment – PM
…legislation to strengthen national oil spill preparedness, response, accountability
…Opposition refuses to support Bill
n a decisive move
Ito safeguard Guyana’s environment, the Government has tabled the Oil Pollution Prevention, Preparedness, Response and Responsibility Bill 2025, a sweeping piece of legislation that mandates strict oil spill prevention, emergency response protocols, and clear accountability for polluters.
However, despite its alignment with international conventions such as the International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Cooperation (OPRC), the Opposition has refused to back the Bill.
The Bill, passed on Friday evening during a sitting of the National Assembly, has been hailed by Prime Minister (PM) Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips as a push for national development. The PM emphasised that the legislation will play a pivotal role in safeguarding Guyana’s environment, affirming the Government’s long-term commitment to responsible resource management and environmental protection.
and legally accountable.”
“The Bill is forward-looking; it is a re -
“This legislation is not only essential but timely,” Phillips stated, “as Guyana continues to emerge as a major oil-producing nation. The Bill provides a robust framework to prevent, mitigate, and respond to oil pollution incidents, and ensures those responsible are held financially
sponse to the increasing scale of petroleum operations and shipping activities within Guyana’s waterways, and it cannot underscore the potential environmental risks. This Bill positions Guyana's legal infrastructure to comply with regional and international best practices. The long title of the Bill reflects its core objectives to make provision for preventative, restorative, and compensatory measures relating to oil spill incidents; to provide for preparedness, response, cooperation, and financial responsibility; and to formally establish a com-
national best practices, PM Phillips cited landmark legislation such as the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA 90) in the
petent national authority tasked with oversight and enforcement responsibilities,” PM added. Drawing from inter -
United States (US) and the Merchant Shipping (Pollution) Act 2006 of the United Kingdom (UK). He also referenced
Nigeria’s national approach via NOSDRA–all underscoring the importance of enforcement, accountability, and state oversight.
One of the most notable aspects of the Bill is the formal recognition of the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) as the Competent National Authority for oil spill response, correcting what the PM called a “legal gap” in the country’s disaster preparedness structure.
Under the Bill, the Director-General of the CDC will serve as the National Incident Commander in the event of a spill.
Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips
Opposition Member of Parliament Shurwayne Holder
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, May 16 –no retraction and Saturday, May 17 –06:30h-07:15h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, May 16 – 05:55h-07:25h and Saturday, May 17 –06:35h-08:05h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Thundery showers are expected during the day and at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East North-Easterly to Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.02 metres.
High Tide: 06:16h and 18:50h reaching maximum heights of 2.55 metres and 2.26 metres.
Low Tide: 12:22h reaching a minimum height of 0.67 metre.
President Ali vows unyielding protection
of Guyana’s
sovereignty
… “obey our laws or face legal consequences” – warns Venezuelans in Guyana
resident Dr Irfaan
Ali has issued a firm statement asserting that the defence of Guyana is a sacred national duty, as tensions with Venezuela over the border controversy persist. Emphasising patriotism and rule of law, the President made clear that safeguarding Guyana’s sovereignty is not optional but an obligation for every citizen.
“The defence of Guyana is a patriotic responsibility, not an option for patriots, a convenience, or political tool. It is a duty, a national honour, and the highest level of dignity for any citizen,” the Head of State declared.
In a strongly worded rebuke of recent actions by Venezuela, President Ali condemned what he described as “a parade of arrogance and consistent disregard for international law.” He added that such behaviour has “no place in a democracy or a peaceful region.”
The statement comes just days after three separate armed attacks were carried out on Guyana Defence Force (GDF) troops within a 24-hour period along the Cuyuni River, between Eteringbang and Makapa in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni).
The first attack occurred on Tuesday, 13 May 2025, at approximately 17:17 hrs. The troops, who had departed Eteringbang and were en route to Observation Post (OP) Makapa, came under fire from armed men positioned on the Venezuelan shore. The assailants reportedly used automatic weapons during the assault.
Then on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at around 14:35h, another patrol departed OP Makapa and was going to an area called Black Water when armed men on the Venezuelan border again opened fire on the patrol, using automatic weapons. Again, fire was returned and no one was injured.
Three hours later, another patrol travelling from Eteringbang, while passing the same location, came under fire and they returned fire.
On Friday, President Ali reaffirmed that both the Government and the people of Guyana, with support from international partners, stand united in defence of the nation’s territorial integrity.
“Make no mistake,” he said, “the Government and people of Guyana, along with our unshakable international partners, will do everything to ensure the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our country remain intact.”
The President also addressed Venezuelan nation-
als residing in Guyana, urging them to abide by the country’s laws and distance themselves from any actions linked to Venezuela’s controversial stance.
“To our Venezuelan neighbours residing here, we expect you to follow the rule of law of our country and not be part of Venezuela’s rogue behaviour. Failure to do so will have legal consequences,” he warned.
He also called for national pride and unity, while encouraging Guyanese, especially those living in border regions, to celebrate their heritage and identity.
“To Guyanese living on our border locations and every other citizen, fly the golden arrowhead high in celebration of our heritage in this 83,000-square-miles that belongs to all of us,” he said.
On Thursday, Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, declared that while the GDF expects no vi-
olation of the country’s sovereignty by neighbouring Venezuela, it remains fully mobilised and prepared to respond to any threat.
His comment was made during a press briefing at Base Camp Ayanganna addressing the armed attacks on GDF troops in Region Seven.
According to Brigadier Khan, though no serious injuries were reported, the attacks — described as deliberate and provocative – have heightened concerns along the border, prompting strengthened patrols and renewed assurances from the GDF that all measures are in place to safeguard Guyana’s territorial integrity and the safety of its border communities.
In this regard, Khan has assured that GDF ranks are deployed along the border with Venezuela, and remain on high alert.
Venezuela has been planning unlawful elections in
connection with its ongoing claim to Guyana’s Essequibo region—a claim that Guyana has consistently rejected and is actively challenging at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The ICJ has issued a binding order instructing Venezuela to refrain from taking any action to conduct or prepare for elections within Guyana’s internationally recognised territory, including the Essequibo region.
Back in January, the Nicolás Maduro regime had announced plans to hold elections in the Essequibo region, which is two-thirds of Guyana’s landmass, on May 25, 2025 – something which Guyana wrote the ICJ in March to have blocked. The World Court, which is hearing the case to settle the decades-long border controversy, issued an order recently that Venezuela must refrain from conducting or preparing to conduct elections in Guyana’s Essequibo region.
It also reaffirmed the provisional measures issued by the Court on December 1, 2023, which states that “… Venezuela shall refrain from taking any action which would modify the situation that currently prevails in the territory in dispute, whereby the Co-operative Republic of Guyana administers and exercises control over that area; and (2) Both Parties shall refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute before the Court or make it more difficult to resolve.”
President Dr Irfaan Ali
Editor: Tusika Martin
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Telemedicine push in Guyana
The challenges of delivering healthcare to remote and underserved communities have long been a reality for developing nations with geographically dispersed populations. In Guyana, where riverine and hinterland regions remain difficult to access due to terrain and infrastructure limitations, the integration of telemedicine presents a transformative opportunity to close long-standing gaps in the delivery of medical services. The announcement by New York State’s Northwell Health, one of the largest private healthcare providers in the United States (US), regarding its intention to expand and strengthen Guyana’s telemedicine network is therefore a welcome development that signals a new era in healthcare modernisation.
Telemedicine, by design, facilitates two-way, real-time communication between a patient and healthcare provider who are not physically in the same location. Supported by secure audio and video technology, as well as remote diagnostic devices, telemedicine offers not only convenience but also lifesaving intervention capabilities for communities where medical professionals and specialised care are in short supply. Since its formal launch in Guyana in 2022, the telemedicine programme has grown to 81 sites across the country—a commendable achievement by the Ministry of Health in partnership with global stakeholders.
The initiative’s next phase, as outlined by Dr Eric Cioe-Peña, Vice President (VP) of the Centre for Global Health at Northwell Health, promises even greater impact. Speaking on The Guyana Dialogue programme, Dr Cioe-Peña detailed plans to amplify the Ministry’s current efforts by establishing a more robust, integrated telemedicine service centred around an acute care command centre. This facility is envisioned as a hub that will unify patient triage, teleconsultations, and emergency management, significantly enhancing the country’s capacity to respond to urgent medical situations.
Such a command centre will be instrumental in reducing unnecessary medical evacuations, which are often costly, logistically complicated, and sometimes avoidable. The proposed system will allow healthcare professionals to assess cases virtually and determine whether a patient requires physical transfer or can be treated effectively on site with remote specialist guidance. This model not only conserves critical resources but also promotes faster, more patient-centred care.
Importantly, the long-term success of this system depends on effective coordination, ongoing investment in digital infrastructure, and the continuous upskilling of local healthcare workers. With Northwell Health’s expertise and the Government’s demonstrated commitment to digital transformation, there is strong potential to create a sustainable model of telehealth that other nations may look to emulate.
The visionary component of this partnership also includes the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) tools into the health ecosystem. As highlighted by Dr Cioe-Peña, AI technologies can significantly increase the efficiency of healthcare delivery, reduce administrative burdens, and improve diagnostic accuracy. In settings where the workforce is often stretched thin, the integration of AI into electronic medical record (EMR) systems and diagnostic platforms can allow medical professionals to focus more on direct patient care rather than data entry and bureaucratic tasks.
Moreover, the digitisation of health records and realtime data management will allow for better national health surveillance, improved resource allocation, and policy decisionmaking informed by accurate, timely data. These are fundamental components of a resilient and responsive healthcare system.
Northwell Health’s involvement in Guyana must also be viewed within the broader context of global health equity. International cooperation and public-private partnerships are essential for bridging disparities between urban and rural populations and between developed and developing countries. When executed with respect for local context and with capacity-building at its core, such collaborations can yield lasting improvements in both outcomes and quality of life.
The foundation for a modern, tech-driven healthcare system has been laid. With the continued expansion of telemedicine, strengthened by command-centre capabilities and enhanced by AI integration, there lies an unprecedented opportunity to democratise access to high-quality medical care. The health of any nation is a fundamental pillar of its development, and Guyana’s progressive embrace of digital health innovation sets a strong example of what can be achieved through vision and partnership.
After 35 years, the Menendez brothers have a chance for parole. Was that the Netflix effect?
By Zoe Williams
When the truecrime documentary Menendez Brothers: Misjudged? aired in 2022 on Discovery+, its impact was not immediate, except on TikTok, where – chicken and eggstyle – it was hard to determine whether people were talking about the case because of the show or because a general cultural osmosis had brought the topic to the fore. Erik and Lyle killed their parents in 1989, when they were 18 and 21. They alleged a childhood of sexual, psychological and physical abuse by their father, which their mother knew about but didn’t act on. The judge disallowed what was called the “abuse excuse” at the time, and the prosecution successfully landed the argument that they had murdered their parents for their inheritance, resulting in whole-life sentences without the possibility of parole.
Two years later, Netflix brought out the dramatisation Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, closely followed by a documentary, The Menendez Brothers, which featured Erik and Lyle speaking from Donovan correctional cacility. They split the water-cooler crowd. Many felt that, had the brothers been tried today, with our superior understanding of abuse and how it can affect the
brain and behaviour, their sentences would have been far less severe. Others still felt that given how rich the family was (their estate was worth about $14m at the time), cash was most likely the real motive; and as for the rest, the only people who could contest the charges of abuse were dead. A California judge yesterday brought their sentence down to 50 years to life, which makes them immediately eligible for parole since the crimes took place before they were 25. The judge framed his decision not as some post-hoc adjudication on the credibility of their abuse claims, but rather because “they’ve done enough in the past 35 years” to earn their chance at freedom. The brothers also said they have taken “full responsibility” for the murders. The interplay between true-crime drama and the judicial process is simultaneously very subtle and incredibly pronounced. Drama, whether it is based on a true story or merely a truthy one, influences outcomes all the time, and we are always freshly surprised as though it’s unprecedented. Mr Bates v the Post Office, which said nothing that hadn’t already been unearthed by media investigations, animated that injustice to such an extent that it briefly stood in for everything dishonest in faceless institutions. By the start of this year, many
of the 4,000 victims of the Horizon scandal had still not been compensated, and there were more than 2,000 new claims – so it was by no means a perfect delivery of justice via ITV, but it was still important.
Of another Netflix show, Adolescence, the even more abstract claim was made that it “started the conversation” about kids today and how they relate to one another, to social media, to the world. When you look at much more concrete consequences – Ken Loach’s Cathy Come Home, in 1966, led to the establishment of Shelter that year and then invigorated provision of social housing in the decade after – they often stand as a dispiriting reminder that it takes more than fervent public opinion to bed in a social principle. The late Dawn Foster wrote furiously in 2016 that, “We did not learn from the [drama] … Fifty years on, the government has pushed through a Housing Act that seems destined to create thousands more Cathys across the country.” It takes astronomical humility for the law to rethink its verdicts on the basis of what is, in essence, entertainment. A programme uncovering new evidence isn’t unheard of, but just as often what it uncovers is a paucity of existing evidence. The first season of the podcast Serial, covering the case of Adnan Syed, who
was convicted in 1999 of killing his girlfriend, Hae Min Lee, helped pave the way for his resentencing, though his conviction still stands – he has been out of prison since 2022. The podcast and its aftermath were a rollercoaster of mystery, outrage, triumph and disaster, so that it fell to Young Lee, Hae Min’s brother, to remind everyone: “This isn’t a podcast for me. It’s real life.” The outcome of In the Dark, about Curtis Flowers, the American tried six times for a murder he didn’t do, had a much more satisfying outcome: in 2019, a year after the podcast aired, its details in essence a grisly narrative of racial injustice, Flowers was released, and charges against him were formally dropped the following year. Ultimately, neither Menendez documentary proved motive, and neither led to this possibility of parole. Did the chance to speak and be heard on Netflix allow the brothers eventually to voice the remorse that the judge found decisive? That would be hard to prove. But true crime, at its best, fosters curiosity in the putatively open-and-shut, empathy for the supposedly worst, and reminds us that people shouldn’t be forgotten entirely, whatever their crime. It’s an adjunct to the law, not a thorn in its side. (The Guardian)
(Zoe Williams is a Guardian columnist)
The breathtaking Sakaika Waterfalls, nestled in the untouched wilderness of the Cuyuni–Mazaruni Region, reward adventurers with a captivating natural spectacle after a scenic 15-mile trek from the Blake Slater airstrip
Avoiding the maximum leader syndrome and fostering cooperation
Dear Editor, After listening to both the Leader of the Opposition and the General Secretary of the PPP it is apparent that the political divide is widening. Referring to each other as trash and resorting to name calling only worsens the situation.
In my humble opinion they are both correct and incorrect on many key issues, but unfortunately neither has shown the po -
litical maturity needed to listen to each other's perspective. Neither has all of the answers and neither should try to project the image of being the maximum leader of the Nation. Instead, they should listen to each other and seek solutions together. When there is an opportunity to learn from each other, there is also an opportunity for cooperation and personal growth. Differences in opinion
should not result in finger pointing and harsh words. Our Nation's best interest should be the priority above all other considerations.
Yes, we should not be preparing to party at a concert instead of focusing on preparing to strengthen our national security. Yes, we should not be making the death of a child a political issue. Yes, the circumstances leading to her drowning need to be
clarified and determined by a thorough investigation. Yes, a longstanding member of a political party that dedicated her life's work to serving her country should not experience the absence of her colleagues at her funeral. Yes, agreements made must be honoured and participation by each side of the aisle in key committees must occur.
Inclusivity in the governance of our Nation is a
requirement that was put in place to avoid the current pitfalls before us.
It is also very clear to all impartial observers that neither side has all of the answers, and together as one nation with a shared destiny we must be united to gain the strength provided by understanding additional perspectives on the same issue. The anger and passion that has led to the rejection of political cooper -
ation must be overcome and redirected towards our external enemies.
In unity there is strength. We must rebuild our relationships within the House of Parliament and with our sidelined allies of the past if we truly want to maintain peace in the region and strength within our borders.
Sincerely,
Jamil Changlee
Supporting Indigenous Rights, Governance, and Respectful Political Engagement
Dear Editor,
As a proud son of Guyana’s Indigenous heritage and a former elected Chief, I reaffirm my unwavering support for the authority of Amerindian Village Councils as enshrined in the Amerindian Act of 2006, and for the foundational rights guaranteed to all Guyanese under our Constitution.
The National Toshaos Council (NTC) plays a vital role in safeguarding the autonomy, traditions, and Governance systems of our First Peoples. I welcome its recent Public Advisory as a timely reminder that entry into Amerindian villages must be guided by law, rooted in respect, and carried out in consultation with Village Councils, whose authority must never be undermined.
At the same time, I be-
lieve it is essential to uphold and defend the right of all Amerindian citizens to participate fully and freely in the political life of our country, including the right to be members of, support, or engage with any political party of their choice. This right is a sacred pillar of our democracy, and it must be protected with the same vigilance as our cultural and governance norms.
The Liberty and Justice Party stands firmly for the empowerment of Indigenous voices in national decision-making, and we encourage respectful, lawful political discourse within all communities. Political participation should never be seen as a threat to Indigenous governance but rather as a complement to it, provided that visits to villages are conducted with
transparency, with prior approval from the Village Council, and in a manner consistent with established laws and customs.
We also urge our fellow Guyanese to avoid politicizing Indigenous governance, and instead focus on building mutual respect, informed dialogue, and partnerships that uplift our communities in every region.
As a political leader and former Chief, I recommit myself to walking in full respect of Amerindian law, culture, and leadership, while continuing to advocate for equity, inclusion, and constitutional freedoms for all Guyanese, especially our Indigenous brothers and sisters.
It take this opportunity to remind the general public that Indigenous Communities and lands are private properties held communally – similar to someone owning a private home.
As such, in a similar manner, when you wish to enter someone’s private yard or house, permission must be sought and be granted from the owner lest you are charged for trespassing. It is the same for Indigenous Lands and Villages. Under Part II of the Amerindian Act, it clearly states; Part II, Entry and Access, 5(1): “A person, other than a person referred to in section 8, who wishes to enter Village Lands shall apply for and
obtain the permission of the Village Council.”
The act also grants unto the Toshao, the authority to represent and act in the best interest of the Village and sometimes such actions may conflict with the interest of some, something that I can speak intimately and knowledgeably about.
The Constitution of Guyana also empowers and gives that right to the Indigenous Peoples under Article 149G. “Indigenous Peoples shall
have the right to the protection, preservation, and promulgation of their cultural heritage and ways of life.”
Let us work together toward a future where governance, tradition, and democracy coexist in harmony, and where every citizen, regardless of heritage or political belief, is empowered to shape the destiny of our beautiful nation.
Yours sincerely, Lenox Shuman Leader-LJP
SATURDAY, MAY 17, 2025
Page Foundation
English
Maths
‘Because
We Care’ cash grant
APNU/AFC never took responsibility for its failure – Jagdeo
prioritising Govt
perks over children’s welfare
Vice President (VP) Bharrat Jagdeo has criticised former President David Granger for failing to take responsibility for the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition’s failure to meet the needs of the nation’s children during its term in office — including the discontinuation of the cash grant and the alleged use of state funds for perks.
Speaking at his weekly press conference, Mr Jagdeo’s comments came in response to a recent letter to the editor by Mr Granger, in which the former President criticised Minister of Education Priya Manickchand for stating that the “Five Bs”
In the letter, Mr Granger also defended his party’s decision to cancel the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government’s “Because We Care” cash grant, stating that the move was justified and fair.
penditure of about $1.6 billion.
“In five years, if it’s calculated $1.6 billion times five, that's $8 billion which the children would have received had they not discontinued the grant. Instead,
(5Bs) programme, introduced under his administration, had failed. Minister Manickchand claimed that the programme had effectively deprived the nation’s children of financial support they had previously been receiving.
In 2014, the PPP/C introduced the “Because We Care” cash grant, providing $10,000 to each child enrolled in public schools across Guyana. At that time, approximately 167,000 students benefited from this initiative, amounting to an annual ex-
he replaced this with the 5B’s programme,” Jagdeo told the media on Thursday.
According to the VP, former President Granger has a very different view of his tenure’s success than the PPP/C does when assessing the measures he implemented during his term in
No confirmed presence of organised gangs in Guyana — Benn
Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn on Friday disclosed that the Home Affairs Ministry in collaboration with the Joint Services has not officially confirmed the presence of organised gangs operating within the borders of Guyana.
He was at the time responding to a question submitted by Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) Tabitha Sarabo-Halley on organised Venezuelan gangs. She specifically asked the Minister “whether the Ministry of Home Affairs and/or Joint Services observed any presence of organised Venezuelan gangs, in particular, the Tren de Gang anywhere within our borders?”
Home Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn
In response, Minister Benn explained that while there have been intelligence reports and concerns about cross border criminal activities and the potential spillover of gang violence, “there is no verified evidence to suggest that the Tren de Gang has established an operational base or presence in Guyana.”
Nevertheless, the Minister assured that authorities remain vigilant and are actively monitoring the border areas, particularly in Regions One (Barima -Waini); Seven (CuyuniMazaruni); Eight (PotaroSiparuni) and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo.)
office. Thundering in frustration over the failure, he expressed a range of things they did with the money instead on continuing the “Because we care” cash grant.
“And then, in this letter, he seeks to justify that somehow this was a fair replacement of the grant his Government took away from the children. With $8 billion, imagine—you could have bought over 1,000 buses. But he doesn’t see it this way. And in his Government, the reason that they express for taking this away from the children was that they could not afford it.”
He added, “But in the same [APNU] Government, they were spending over $1.6 billion more per year on dietary food for the Government. So clearly, his Government made a choice to spend the money on food for Government officials rather than giving it to the children.”
He highlighted how APNU spent even more than what they would have spent on the cash grant and stressed that APNU did not see it as a priority to meet the needs of the nation’s children.
“That’s the difference. In a respectful way, I want him to consider that—his Government did not see the children’s grant as a priority. And look at some of the things they spent money on during that period. They
spent money on rentals, which increased by a billion dollars, and vehicle maintenance, maybe nearly by $1.5 billion. I can go down the long list of where money was spent because the budget grew massively.”
Jagdeo said APNU collected $94 billion more per year in taxes by increas-
buses donated can’t replace the $1.6 billion per year that you took away from the children. So I hope that he, now in his quiet moments, would reflect upon this and understand why people were so aggrieved by this policy.”
Meanwhile, on Monday the PPP/C Administration
ing taxes. However, none of these funds were allocated to the nation’s children. He said that APNU, once again, claimed that they could not afford the grant. Speaking on behalf of the Education Minister, he backed up her claim that the 5B’s programme did not properly cater to children and failed.
“So that is why Priya Manickchand can proudly say today that his 5B’s programme catered to a few people—maybe a few persons got those buses. But 35
kicked off the distribution of the “Because We Care” cash grant in regions Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).
A total of $11 billion has been allocated in the 2025 Budget for the distribution of the grant to 205,000 children in public and private schools nationwide. This year, the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant has been increased to $50,000, coupled with the $5,000 uniform allowance, giving parents a total of $55,000 per child.
Oil Pollution Bill 2025 signals...
He will be supported by the Director of the Maritime Administration Department and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), responsible for offshore and onshore responses, respectively. The Guyana Coast Guard will serve as the lead response unit for maritime spills.
Another, major feature of the legislation is the strict imposition of financial responsibility on the “responsible party” — the entity responsible for the spill, who will be legally obligated to bear all cleanup costs, pay for environmental restoration, and settle legitimate claims from affected individuals.
“Guyana must learn from the successes and shortcomings of these frameworks,” Phillips said. “We are building not just a legislative document but an operational system that includes institutional capacity, emergency funding, and independent oversight.”
“This provision shifts the burden away from
taxpayers and places it firmly where it belongs — on the polluter,” Phillips said, noting that any failure to comply could result in penalties of up to $2 billion”.
Non-support Meanwhile, Opposition Member of Parliament Shurwayne Holder delivered a blistering critique of the legislation, declaring it a “hoax and a sham” designed to give cover to oil companies at the expense of Guyana’s national interest.
During his address to the National Assembly, Holder argued that the bill fails to guarantee comprehensive liability
and instead allows limited liability companies to evade responsibility in the event of a major spill. “Mr Speaker, in concluding, in concluding, this oil pollution prevention, preparedness, response, and responsibility bill is nothing but a hoax and a sham. It has to be seen for what it is: applying to give critical support to the oil companies, placing their interests and the interests of the People's Progressive Party above the collective interests, safety, and well-being of the people of Guyana. We cannot and will not support such a bill,” Holder said.
Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo
Money laundering case “I really hope I don’t have to” take actionMagistrate warns Brutus’ wife over absence …blames 5-month absence on delay in obtaining newborn’s US passport
The prolonged absence of Adonika
Aulder, the wife of embattled former Assistant Police Commissioner Calvin Brutus, took centre stage during a hearing on Friday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, where Prosecutor David Braithwaite expressed the state’s “serious concern” over her failure to return to the jurisdiction after being granted leave by the court some five months ago.
Aulder, who is jointly charged with Brutus in a multi-million-dollar money laundering conspiracy, was granted permission in December 2024 by acting chief Magistrate Faith McGusty to travel overseas, reportedly for medical reasons related to her pregnancy. However, despite assurances to the court that she would return within a reasonable timeframe, Aulder has yet to appear in person. She has instead attended proceedings virtually, citing delays, first pregnancy complications, and now in obtaining a United States (US) passport for her newborn.
Prosecutor Braithwaite, before Magistrate McGusty, raised the matter early in the hearing, calling on the court to address what he described as a breach of its directive.
“The prosecution and the State are very much concerned in relation to the co-accused person not being within the jurisdiction,” Braithwaite told the court. He reminded Magistrate McGusty that permission had been granted for Aulder to travel around December 17 or 18, 2024, and that she was expected to return after giving birth in March 2025.
“Today is the 16th [of May], that is approximately five months… The co-accused has never returned to the jurisdiction, which is in direct breach of the court’s direction and the leniency of this court,” he said.
Braithwaite underscored that Aulder faces two indictable counts of money laundering and that the state cannot proceed without her presence. He urged
the court to pronounce on the next course of action if the accused continues to remain absent.
“We want to know what is the court’s position is,” he said. “I know the co-accused would have asked for six weeks, today is approximately the fourth, so there are two outstanding weeks. But in the absence of the return of this person, maybe we can have some update.”
However, Aulder, appearing virtually, told the court that the passport application process was still ongoing. When asked if she had an option to collect the passport in person, Aulder replied that the document would be mailed to her.
Magistrate warns Magistrate McGusty re-
sponded that she would allow the full six-week period to lapse before taking any definitive action, but signaled that other measures could be considered. “I believe I did mention, and I’m not sure if you were here, that there was another option, and I was begged not to consider that option. I really hope I don’t have to. But if I have to, I will,” she said.
Prosecutor Braithwaite, while acknowledging the unique circumstances of Aulder’s medical situation, reiterated that five months had passed and that such processes, under normal circumstances, do not take that long. “There is no intelligence that this process in its ordinary course takes this long,” he noted. He asked for it to be formally noted that the accused remains in breach.
Also raised during the hearing was the issue of incomplete disclosure of key evidence by the prosecution including the Welfare Fund book.
Prosecutor Braithwaite responded that the prosecution had disclosed all the statements in its possession, but confirmed that the Welfare Fund book was not among them. “We don’t have it in our possession,” he said.
Magistrate McGusty weighed in on the matter, clarifying that if the prosecution does not possess a particular document, the defence is entitled to obtain and present it independently.
Magistrate McGusty adjourned the matter to July 2.
Charges
The charges against Calvin Brutus and his co-accused Adonika Aulder, Kevin George, Corwin Nicholson, and Asif Zafarally, stem from a major investigation by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) into financial irregularities and procurement fraud within the Guyana Police Force (GPF).
Runnings…
…in Customs
Well, well, well. There are always unintended consequences, aren’t they?? Here’s it was the Lombard Street Mohammed scion was tooling around the town – never to Berbice or anywhere of THAT beaten (possibly muddy) track! – with his high end pimped rides that beat Diddy’s hands down!! They both have Rolls, Lambos, Ferraris, Land Cruisers etc. – but as anybody with access to the internet – meaning EVERYBODY! – knew, they were all waaaay more expensive than the “Freak Offs” Diddy’s stable!!
Now the kid – like most folks who’re socially awkward, which he clearly is – was just doing it to win friends with Guyanese – 48% of whom are still dirt poor!! He even boasted – as the “old rich” would NEVER do – about the prices he supposedly paid – and the duties levied!! Seems he didn’t realize that sooner or later – in this case later – the folks over at the GRA would’ve started wondering whether he’d paid the proper taxes for bringing in the vehicles!! You ask, “why would they do that”, Dear Reader?? Well under which log have you been living?? Ever since those massive duties were imposed on cars back in the day, Guyanese have been trying every-which way – and then some – to see how they could beat the system.
And the easiest one was to “have a friend” in Customs!! “While “having a friend in Jesus” takes care of you in the hereafter, “having a friend in Customs” does it for you in the here and now with cars!! That said friend would accept a lower declared valuation on vehicles imported which, when being cleared, would intervene to ensure the GRA’s checking system was bypassed!! This system bounced declared costs versus market values for the product. Clearly, if the vehicles were imported some years back it meant that the “friend” in the GRA gotta be a big fish – Even a whale!! -to keep it off the radar – as the sun-shaded-friendless kid kept flaunting his baubles to get some!!
Anyhow, after the US Dept of Treasury imposed sanctions on the companies, the kid’s name was listed as an official –for gold smuggling – the scrutiny became mandatory as all government agencies rushed to ensure they weren’t facilitating illegalities!! There’s the lesson next door from Mad Maduro’s corporate executive being sanctioned!! And lo and behold, someone in the GRA -above the whale’s pay grade – took another gander at the pimped rides’ duties paid and the scam was busted!! And the unintended consequences of boosting his ego by “showing off” his rides has brought him low!!
So what’s the lesson here? If you’re a hustler – no matter how big – you gotta stay off the radar. And for sure, you don’t actually COURT attention!! That’s stupid!!
… for Maduro
The Opposition’s playing right into the hands of Mad Maduro as the latter ratchets up the pressure against us before his May 25 legislative and gubernatorial elections for our Essequibo. While on one hand they SAY they reject the madman’s campaign to take over two-thirds of our national territory, their sponsoring of terrorism in the wake of young Adrianna’s death DEMONSTRATES otherwise!!
This has reached a world-wide audience and the international media – and certainly Miraflores Palace – to give Mad Maduro the assurance that the domestic political brouhaha will distract the government from giving their full attention to his armed incursions on our western border. This is especially true since the Adrianna Affaire involves one of the key institutions of the Disciplined Forces – the Guyana Police Force.
As we’ve done before, we predict that the emboldened Mad Maduro’s gonna keep pushing the envelope – as he’s done for two years now – to assume “sovereignty” over Essequibo.
If for nothing else than it would give him overwhelming support in any future elections.
…by Venezuelans
GDF Head Khan issued a condign warning to Venezuelans in Guyana who might vote in Mad Maduro’s upcoming elections. “Any Venezuelans living in Guyana and participate in such election will be arrested and deported!” No questions asked!!
Acting chief Magistrate Faith McGusty
Charged: Former Assistant Police Commissioner, Calvin Brutus
Charged: Adonika Aulder
GRA moves ahead with criminal case against US-sanctioned Azruddin Mohamed
The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has confirmed that it has laid criminal charges embattled United States (US)sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohamed in connection with the importation of a 2020 Lamborghini Roadster SVJ, following the discovery of a falsified invoice and significantly understated taxes.
The charge follows the submission of new evidence by the US Department of Justice (DOJ) to Guyanese authorities under the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT). The documents, including a US$695,000 invoice billed to Mohamed, contradict his previous claim to the court that the vehicle cost only US$76,000 — a difference of over US$619,000.
According to the GRA, the agency sought informa -
ceived has corroborated prior findings, showing that the invoice and value submitted at the time of importation were false,
tion from its counterparts in the US via the Home Affairs Ministry, in accordance with the Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Act, Chapter 15:05. The request pertained specifically to the purchase and importation of a 2020 Lamborghini Roadster SVJ.
GRA on Friday said that on May 14, 2025, US authorities responded, providing a copy of the purchase invoice and other supporting documents. The GRA said these documents confirmed the true purchase price of the vehicle, which aligned with existing evidence already submitted before the Court.
In keeping with its legal obligations, the GRA filed a Supplementary Affidavit to have this newly obtained evidence admitted in ongoing Judicial Review proceedings. However, on May 15, 2025, the presiding judge, Justice Gino Persaud ruled against admitting the documents from the US’s DOJ, stating that reasons for the decision would be issued at a later date in September 2025.
Despite the court's ruling, the GRA emphasised that the information re -
and that the taxes declared were significantly understated.
As a result, the GRA has instituted criminal
proceedings under Section 218 (e) of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01, for fraudulent evasion and false declarations.
The statement also noted that the importer had signed the Form C32A –Customs, affirming that all information provided was true and acknowledging the GRA’s authority to review and reassess declared values for up to seven years under the Fifth Schedule.
Based on the newly uncovered evidence, the GRA issued a reassessment and demand letter for the payment of additional taxes owed.
In April, GRA officials, backed by police attempted to seize several luxury vehicles — including a Lamborghini Roadster, Ferrari, Rolls Royce, and Land Cruisers — from the family’s residence in Houston, Greater Georgetown. The operation was aborted after a hostile crowd, reportedly paid by Mohamed, blocked access to the premises.
GRA has said that the vehicles were imported under the re-migrant scheme, but failed to meet key requirements, including residency status and proper declaration of value. The total tax liability in the matter is estimated at nearly $900 million.
Among the outstanding amounts are: $479.7 million for a 2020 Ferrari registered to Hana Mohamed; $371.7 million
for the Lamborghini tied to Azruddin Mohamed; $320 million for a 2023
Rolls Royce registered to Bibi Mohamed and additional millions linked to a
Range Rover and Toyota Land Cruisers under various family names.
US-sanctioned Azruddin Mohamed
GBTI reports $4B profit, up 31%
…Chairman Robin Stoby to step down after 20 years
The Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry Limited (GBTI) reported robust financial results at its 37th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Friday, showcasing a 31 per cent year-on-year increase in profit after tax to G$4 billion.
Delivering the Chairman’s Address, Robin Stoby, SC, highlighted the Bank’s continued growth trajectory. GBTI’s total assets climbed to G$249 billion, customer deposits rose by 24 per cent to G$209 billion, and the loan portfolio expanded by 12 per cent. The Bank also reported a reduction in Non-Performing Loans (NPLs) to 3.85 per cent, signalling improved credit quality and effective
ening commitment to corporate social responsibility and inclusive development. Through initiatives like GBTI GROW, launched in 2024, the Bank has expanded support for small businesses, farmers, and young entrepreneurs by improving access to credit and financial empowerment tools.
The Bank also reiterated its focus on community development and environmental sustainability through ongoing outreach efforts. These initiatives reflect GBTI’s broader goal of fostering long-term value and positive social impact across Guyana.
Shareholders welcomed the declaration of a G$32 per share dividend, up 21 per cent from the previous
requirements.
In a notable announcement, Stoby revealed his intention to step down as chairman of the board after
risk management practices.
In addition to its financial performance, the AGM underscored GBTI’s deep-
year. The Bank also maintained a strong Capital Adequacy Ratio of 18 per cent, well above regulatory
two decades of service. “This decision follows deep reflection and a belief in leadership renewal,” he stated, while affirming his contin-
ued presence on the Board to offer strategic guidance.
The appointment of a new Chairman is expected to be determined at the Board’s next meeting in June.
During the AGM,
shareholders voted to reelect Stoby; Anna Lisa Fraser-Phang, and Glen Parmassar as Directors of the Board.
Looking ahead, GBTI said that it will advance its
focus on digital innovation, customer-centric strategies, and data-driven decision-making to support Guyana’s evolving financial landscape and economic expansion.
“I really hope I don’t have to...
Brutus, once the Assistant Commissioner overseeing administration is accused of directing police finance officers to process payments to suppliers for goods that were never delivered. These transactions, investigators say, amounted to large-scale fraud and involved forged quotations, fictitious supplier invoices, and deliberate misappropriation of public funds.
The probe revealed that funds totaling over $800 million passed through accounts belonging to Brutus, Aulder, their underage son, and their associated companies Business Enterprise,
Premium Supplies and Logistics, and Western Logistics. Aulder is alleged to have received over $473 million in laundered proceeds between December 2023 and July 2024. Brutus has been charged with over 240 offences to date, including misconduct in public office, obtaining money by false pretence, and money laundering. He remains out on bail.
Earlier this year, SOCU filed 21 additional charges against him, further widening the scope of the allegations. Meanwhile, multiple other officers and associates have also been charged, with the inves-
tigation expected to lead to further revelations.
As the matter progresses, the court is expected to determine whether the case should proceed indictably to the High Court. The prosecution told the court that while a new People’s Collectives Act was expected to take effect on June 1, 2025, this matter, being a pre-existing case, may still be treated under previous legislative guidelines.
The next hearing on July 2 will focus on submissions by both prosecution and defence on how the matter will proceed and what further evidence is to be disclosed.
A section of the gathering at the AGM which was held on Friday
Delays in shipment, limited concrete suppliers stall CH&PA building
The construction of a new headquarters for the Central Housing & Planning Authority (CH&PA) is stalled due to the supply of construction materials.
In response to written questions posed by Opposition Member of Parliament, Annette Ferguson to Housing and Water Minister, Collin Croal, it was disclosed that
an extension time is currently being reviewed by the CH&PA with approval from the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB). The new date “will be provided shortly,” the Minister promised.
The delay he said is due to delays in the shipment of materials for the steel superstructure and limited availability of concrete suppliers with concrete pump
trucks.
The contract was awarded to Aika General Construction and Hardware Supplies Inc, Mac Junior International, N Balgobin & Sons Contracting Service & Electrical Supplies and Amazon Cooling Inc to complete the projects in phases. The phases commenced at different times in 2023 and 2024.
Situated at Houston,
along the Mandela to Eccles Highway, East Bank Demerara (EBD), the new complex will comprise two buildings, one designated to host the Ministry’s secretariat, and the CH&PA, while the other will serve as the headquarters for the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI).
Also, in response to questions from Ferguson, the Minister disclosed that the
construction of the GWI building is also stalled. This contract was awarded to Kares Engineering Inc.
According to Croal, the delay in construction is due to the inclusion of a fourth floor of the building. He noted that a revised completion date is currently under review.
The five-story housing Ministry building is being constructed at a cost of
$741.5 million, while the four-story GWI building will amount to $562 million. The new facility will house in excess of 320 staff members and is being constructed on a plot of land measuring approximately 214’ x 407’ (2 acres). The building measures approximately 150 ft in length x 105 ft in width and is designed with a parking area catering to over 100 vehicles.
An artist’s impression of the new headquarters
Govt, Unions sign multi-year agreements
...GPL, GPSU; GUYOIL, CCWU ink wage agreements
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh, today oversaw two agreements signed by the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Incorporated and the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), and the Guyana Oil Company Limited (GUYOIL) and the Clerical and Commercial Workers Union (CCWU) respectively.
took place at the Ministry of Finance, in the presence of representatives of the workers unions and the companies involved as well as the Ministry of Finance.
The signing ceremonies
The agreement between GPL and GPSU is a two-year
agreement (2024-2025) allowing for an increase in salaries and allowances for GPL workers, while the agreement between GUYOIL and CCWU also paving the way for increased salaries and allowances, is a three-year agreement for the years 2024-2026.
Speaking during the signing of the GPL and GPSU agreement, Minister Singh said the agreement covers two years and comes against the background of a succession of multiyear agreements that Government has been able to conclude between agencies in the public sector and the various labour Unions.
“The agreements represent just the two most recent instalments in what constitutes a visible manifestation of President Ali’s Government’s commitment to a favourable industrial relations climate.
etc.; all of which go to the core quality of life.”
Chief Labour Officer Dhaneshwar Deonarine, during brief remarks said he was pleased that the respective parties were able to conclude agreements, as he applauded the management of the entities and the union, pointing out that in many cases, collective bargaining isn’t about winning but examining the best interest of those whom the bargaining entities are serving.
In his remarks, GPL’s Team Leader for its Management Committee, Kesh Nandlall said GPL is in an expansion mode, and the company has a pivotal role to provide cheap and reliable power across the country especially now during the economic expansion taking place.
He also recognised
ment between GUYOIL and CCWU, as it would bring further stability to the company, and workers can focus their efforts on delivering a good service to Guyanese.
CCWU’s General Secretary, Sherwood Clarke, during his remarks highlighted that GUYOIL is the largest membership unit of CCWU in terms of both numbers and participation, as he commended the parties involved for their support towards ensuring that GUYOIL’s employees benefit as a result. He also acknowledged Minister Singh’s active role and strong support in the agreement coming to fruition.
It can be recalled that in 2024 the Government and the GPSU, after extensive discussions and negotiations also concluded a multi-year agreement with respect to employ-
I would say that the last two years perhaps were historic years in connection to the industrial relations climate in Guyana in particular, in relation to the number of multiyear agreements concluded,” Minister Singh noted.
Minister Singh also emphasised that “the fact that we've been able as a Government to conclude so many multiyear agreements really is something that I'm immensely proud of. It is reflective of the maturity of the relationship that we enjoy with the unions in Guyana and the maturity with which the leadership of the unions have adopted its engagement with us. Government places the highest level of importance on improving the lives of every single citizen and we aim to realise this through all that we do, including, of course, the various investments that we're making in infrastructure, including social infrastructure, education, health care, housing, water,
Minister Singh’s role during the negotiation process, which led to the successful conclusion of the agreement.
Also speaking during the signing of the GPL- GPSU agreement, as she signed the agreement on behalf of the Union, GPSU’s First Vice President Dawn Gardner, said that in terms of bargaining in good faith “as a union we take it very seriously – and the human resource of any organisation is the most valuable resource. For the development of any organisation this resource must be treated with respect. At GPL it is no different.”
She also pointed out that Dr Ashni Singh’s intervention during the bargaining process, on behalf of Government, was very helpful towards the parties reaching the agreement today.
In terms of the GUYOILCCWU agreement, Chairman of GUYOIL, Paul Cheong said he is appreciative of the signing of the multi-year agree-
ment benefits for public servants for 2024 and 2025 and this represented the first agreement concluded by the GPSU with any Government in recent memory. Under that agreement, public servants benefitted from a 10 per cent salary increase for 2024 and will benefit from an 8 per cent salary increase in 2025. This followed a 3-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) and the Ministry of Education (MOE). Government also concluded similar multi-year agreements with the University of Guyana Senior Staff Association (UGSSA), University of Guyana Workers Union (UGWU), and the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), under which these workers received a 10 per cent salary increase for 2024, and an 8 per cent and 9 per cent increase to be paid in 2025 and 2026, respectively.
Govt seeking over $57.4B in supplementary funds
…to be spent on GtE, expansion of electricity distribution network …funds for housing development, hinterland roads, sea defence works also sought
The Government of Guyana is seeking parliamentary approval for more than $57.4 billion in supplementary funds aimed at propelling several flagship development projects, including the Gas-toEnergy (GtE) initiative, electricity distribution network upgrades, expanded housing infrastructure, and national resilience projects, such as sea and river defence works.
During Friday’s sitting of the National Assembly, Dr Ashni Singh, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, presented Financial Paper No. 1 of 2025. The Supplementary Appropriation Bill outlines additional allocations to sustain the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government’s expansive 2025 development agenda.
The largest single component of the supplementary request amounts to $29.5 billion, and once approved, will go toward expanding and upgrading electricity distribution networks under the Office of the Prime Minister, with $28.7 billion set aside for grid upgrades as part of
the GtE Project, and $737 million to extend electricity to unserved communities.
Already, significant progress has been made on the project, which consists of the construction of 225 kilometres (km) of pipeline from the Liza field in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana,
where Exxon and its partners are currently producing oil.
It features approximately 200 km of a subsea pipeline offshore that would run from Liza Destiny and Liza Unity Floating, Production, Storage, And Offloading (FPSO) vessels in the Stabroek Block to the shore. Upon landing on the West Coast of Demerara (WCD) shore, the pipeline would continue for approximately 25 km to the Liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant at Wales, West Bank Demerara (WBD).
According to Dr Singh: “Government’s electricity programme under the energy sector has been addressing longstanding issues of electricity reliability, affordability, and access, as well as service to new areas through the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) and those in the hin-
terland. The Government has also been placing heavy focus on enhancing the nation’s energy infrastructure and accelerating a transition to more sustainable power sources.”
“The ambitious Gas-toEnergy (GtE) Project, which is set to revolutionise the country’s energy landscape, has also been advancing. In addition, previously unserved areas such as New Forest in Region Six, and many other areas, now receive electricity for the first time, while the Government has provided solar panels to a large number of hinterland communities that are not in close proximity to the national grid.”
These upgrades include support to GPL and new electrification in previously unconnected areas like New Forest, along with solar panel distribution to hinterland
communities outside the reach of the national grid.
Additionally, the sum of $12 billion is being sought for the Ministry of Housing and Water to support the continuation of Government’s large-scale housing development programme.
According to the Financial Paper No. 1 of 2025, the $12 billion will play a pivotal role to distribute 50,000 house lots by the end of 2025, specifically as it relates to infrastructural development and buildings.
Meanwhile, in the area of public works, $4.9 billion has been earmarked for road upgrades and construction across the country to improve transportation and connectivity. Specifically, $1.5 billion is being sought for the construction of hinterland roads, $1.4 billion for farm access roads and $2 billion for sea and river defence.
US healthcare provider to help develop command centre for local telemedicine services
New York State's healthcare provider and private employer Northwell Health has revealed plans to further strengthen healthcare services particularly in hinterland and riverine communities through its telemedicine initiative.
Telemedicine is a method of two-way, real-time interactive communication between a patient and healthcare provider at different locations.
It is supported by audio and video equipment, as well as integrated medical devices to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients remotely.
The programme was officially launched in Guyana in 2022 and has expanded to 81 telemedicine sites to date. This initiative aims to enhance patient outcomes and emergency response capabilities in underserved communities – particularly those in the hinterland.
During a recent edition of The Guyana Dialogue programme, Vice President (VP) of the Centre for Global Health at Northwell Health, Dr Eric Cioe-Peña, discussed how his organisation is actively working to modernise and improve Guyana’s healthcare system.
The VP highlighted one project which his organisation is planning to execute in collaboration with the health Ministry that will see the already existing telemedicine network being significantly improved.
“What we've been thinking about for this is, how do we create a more robust telemedicine service? We want to take what the Ministry's done and amplify it, make it bigger. We think about an acute care command centre. The Ministry is already heading this way in terms of
es. “AI has the potential to make nurses and doctors, not only more efficient…It will actually bring the joy of being in medicine back to medicine because the things that we don't like about medicine, AI can fix. They're rolling out an EMR (Electronic Medical Record), but needing to spend time documenting what you've done for a patient instead of spending time with the patient.”
they've allocated space and they want to build a command centre, but we want to integrate telemedicine into that command centre.”
According to Dr CioePeña, this system would not only help patients by giving them immediate solutions but will also help the Ministry to save resources by eliminating unnecessary medical evacuations.
“Because sometimes you call for a patient transfer from Lethem, for instance, and the real answer is, you don't need the patient to move. You just need someone who's a specialist to give an opinion about that patient and help manage that patient remotely. We want the people to determine whether you get medevacked or whether there's a telemedicine solution to be the same people and to be working in the same command centre. If the care can be delivered immediately where the patient lives, we do that.”
Moreover, as the Government works to digitise its services the VP also highlighted the important role Artificial Intelligence (AI) can play within the medical community as well as addressing workforce challeng-
He added, “Decision tools that will help doctors and nurses provide better care, capture data. All of those
don't have enough people in healthcare.” Meanwhile, the Health Ministry received a $143.2
billion allocation in the 2025 budget. This allocation will be used to complete regional and specialty facilities, procure medical equipment, and other health-related initiatives. The budget also includes specific amounts for malaria prevention ($15 million), tuberculosis training ($12.5 million), and HIV/ AIDS management training ($28 million). A significant portion of the budget is also dedicated to improving healthcare accessibility and quality nationwide, with $83.6 billion allocated for regional and clinical services.
things that right now are being done manually by people, we
Vice President of the Centre of Global Health at Northwell Health Dr Eric Cioe- Peña
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh
71 single mothers honoured by Reg 5 Welfare Department
– as school attendances improve, parents’ involvement in PTA activity increases
Seventy-one single mothers who have been playing an active role in their child’s schooling, were recognised for the contribution they have made over the past year to the development of their child and the child’s peers. The recognition awards were part of the Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) Education Ministry’s Welfare Department’s Mother’s Day activities.
The annual event aims to award the best parent in each of the region’s 71 schools.
Coordinator of the event, Gloria DavidsonJames, explained that the programme was introduced across the region in 2018, to involve parents in their children’s lives.
The programme, called ‘Mother Empowerment Session’, is a mother’s forum that empowers mothers, for which they are honoured. This year it was held under the theme, ‘Creating a million ways to be a good mother in a world where you can’t be perfect.”
According to the coordinator, since its inception, the programme has reaped tremendous success, with school attendances improving and parents’ involvement in PTA activity increasing.
“Our objectives for this programme are to foster parental involvement, and we are seeing that; and building relationships with parents, especially the mothers that we are looking at... We are building relationships with the par-
ents – and not only them, with the community, so that when we go out there and if there is a situation where children are not attending school or children are in difficult circumstances, they would reach out to the school’s welfare section and we will help them where we can.”
For parents, there is an incentive to participate in the programme apart from their child’s improved performance at school; they have the bragging rights of being the best parent in the school.
Davidson-James explained that certain criteria must be met before winners are chosen.
“Their children must do all the assignments and finish them on time. They must be involved in oth-
er children’s lives. They must be an inspiration to other parents – and that is just to name a few,” she explained.
“We see at many schools, if students are absent, it would only be when they are sick, or if they are out of the area at Bath. We used to have poor attendance, not only at the primary, but with the children within communities; it was similar in some other areas within the region. We used to have poor attendance at Belladrum and other places, but we have seen with this programme, and with the cash grant and all the other developments, we are seeing improvement in our attendance,” she said.
One single parent, Melissa McAllmont, a mother of three, recalled
her inspiration through the programme.
“This programme has inspired me for many years; with the encouragement and advice from the welfare officers. They encouraged me to go back to school, and I went back to school and wrote CXC
(Caribbean Examinations Council), and I was successful, and from there, with their guidance and encouragement, I applied for a job and now I am a trained teacher and a student at the University of Guyana (UG),” McAllmont revealed.
Berbice family dissatisfied with investigations into son’s death ...calls for thorough probe
AWest Berbice, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) family is not satisfied with the investigation by the police of their son’s drowning, and is calling for a thorough probe.
Their son, 30-yr-old Sadain Habibullah, a fisherman of Ketting Street, Cotton Tree, reportedly left shore on May 5, on a fishing expedition, with the expectation of returning within 4 to 5 days.
According to the fisherman’s father, Shamir Habibullah, they later received information that his son had drowned while at sea. The following day, the boat returned to shore without his son. When
Habibullah left for sea, he was a part of a crew of five, two of whom were brothers.
“I went by the koker there. And then when the boat came in, they come out of the boat and went straight past me. The captain didn't tell me anything, and then another man asked them if they would not tell the boy's father anything, and then they tell me that he fall over in the ocean and they have to go to Blairmont Police Station to make a report,” he recounted.
The father said that when they went to the Blairmont Police Station, they were told that since the incident occurred closer to the Corentyne shore,
the matter would have to be handled by police in Region Six, and advised that they visit Central Police tation in New Amsterdam, which they did.
Arrangements were subsequently made for a search party to go out at sea.
The senior Habibullah said that along with the boat captain and two other persons, they were prepared to join the boats with five police officers for the search. However, they were told that only two people could have gone on the trip with the police officers.
A decision was then made for the father and the boat captain to go with the officers. However, following a request from the police officers, they dropped the other two men across the river to DeEdward. The boat crossed the Berbice River, where the boat cap-
tain also left but returned shortly after.
The father added that it was then that he was told he couldn’t go with the police search party, and has not heard anything since
about that search, nor has he been contacted on the matter.
Habibullah said the family had organised several search parties and visited the sea daily in search of his son, and is questioning why it was that he was not allowed to be part of the crew searching for his missing son.
He believes that something is amiss.
The fisherman’s body was found on the foreshore along the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) on May 11.
An autopsy performed on the body on May 13, by Government Pathologist Dr Nihal Singh, gave the cause of death as drowning.
Father: Shamir Habibullah
Dead: Sadian Habibullah
Koral Edwards, a grandmother, receiving the best parent award for Number 8 Primary, from Regional Education Officer, Selestine LaRose
GAWU presents prizes to essay competition winners
The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) on Friday announced the winners of its recently concluded essay competition centred on the theme, “The Importance of Trade Unionism in Guyana.”
The competition was held as part of GAWU’s commemoration of the 49th anniversary of its historic recognition as the official union representing workers in the sugar industry.
The essay competition aimed to engage young minds and foster greater awareness of trade unions’ critical role in advocating for workers’ rights, fair wages, and safe working conditions in Guyana. The initiative received an overwhelming response from participants nationwide, who showcased their knowledge, insights, and passion for the cause of trade unionism.
GAWU’s President Seepaul Narine expressed delight at the quality of
the submissions, stating, “The essays submitted reflect a deep understanding of the fundamental principles of trade unionism and the ongoing struggles for workers’ rights in Guyana. It is heartening to see young people actively engaging with these important issues.”
The winners of the competition are as follows:
1st prize Sahil Khan, 2nd prize Samera Khan, 3rd prize Abedah Inshan and 4th prize Quacy Joel Garnett.
Each winner received a plaque and a cash prize. GAWU remains committed to educating and empowering workers while promoting the principles of solidarity, fairness, and equity.
As the union continues to champion workers’ rights in Guyana, initiatives such as the essay competition serve as a vital platform to inspire the next generation to uphold the values of trade unionism.
Over 3,900 grants distributed by SBB within last four years …82% of businesses that received grants still in operation
As the Small Business Bureau (SBB) continues to promote entrepreneurship and support small businesses nationwide, the organisation from 2020 to 2024 has distributed more than 3,900 grants to small business within the country, the majority of which are still in operation.
This data was presented at the 103rd Sitting of the Twelfth Parliament on Friday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC).
In a written question to the Minister of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) Annette Ferguson asked if the Minister could “indicate to the National Assembly, from 2020 to October 2024, how many small businesses that received grants still exist? If none, what are the pitfalls?”
In her written response, Minister Walrond revealed that over the period 2020 to 2024, the SBB issued a total of 3,920 grants to small businesses across the country, as part of its efforts to support entrepreneurship and stimulate economic growth.
Notably to date, the
Bureau has also successfully conducted Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) visits for 2,877 of those businesses, representing a significant commitment to ensuring accountability and tracking the impact of these grants to ensure business continuity and growth.
Of the businesses monitored, an average of 82 per cent are still in operation over the four years a testament to the resilience of our small business sector and the positive impact of this initiative.
However, the Ministry also acknowledge that challenges remain.
According to the Minister, the Bureau was unable to conduct monitoring and evaluation (M&E) visits for all grant recipients due to factors such as changes in business locations, failure to provide updated contact information, and, in some cases, the migration of business owners. Nevertheless, the Ministry remains committed to supporting small businesses and will continue to strengthen its monitoring mechanisms to better serve this vital sector of the economy.
MP Ferguson also asked about the mechanisms the Tourism Ministry has in place to ensure that businesses who received grants remain viable.
According to Minister Waldron, as part of efforts to ensure these businesses remain viable, the SBB uses its robust inoV systems to address this matter effectively.
Firstly, continuous business development and financial literacy training plays a critical role. Entrepreneurs benefiting from these grants are continuously engaged in workshops and training sessions. These sessions focus on essential areas such as Business Proposal Writing, Financial Management and Record Keeping, Small Business Management, Marketing Fundamentals and many others.
This ensures that business owners are equipped with the necessary skills to successfully manage and grow their enterprises. Secondly, Monitoring and Evaluation is a continuous process. The SBB conducts regular follow-ups with businesses to assess their progress, address challenges and
further needs of businesses. This hands-on approach ensures that businesses remain on track toward achieving their goals.
Additionally, the SBB has introduced Mentorship Programmes that connect grant recipients with experienced business advisors. These mentors provide guidance on best practices, strategic decision-making, and overcoming challenges. Notably, the relaunch of the Resource Centre further enhances support by offering a hub for business advice and resources.
Furthermore, the SBB actively promotes sponsorship opportunities, by enabling clients to showcase their products in local and international markets. Through trade fairs and expos, entrepreneurs are provided with platforms to expand their reach and build valuable connections and increasing their marketability.
The SBB also facilitates Access to Additional Financing through its Loans Guarantee programme, by linking entrepreneurs with financial institutions accessing loans for business from $500,000 to $30,000,000
(GYD) at 6 per cent per annum, while guaranteeing from 40 per cent to 70 per cent of the collateral. This ensures that businesses have the financial backing they need to scale up operations and remain competitive.
These mechanisms demonstrate a comprehensive and structured approach by the SBB to not only ensure accountability for grants provided, but also to empower small businesses to thrive and contribute to economic growth. The SBB remains
steadfast in its mission to foster sustainable entrepreneurship and create opportunities for long-term success.
Meanwhile, in January this publication had reported that the SBB had made a monumental impact on small businesses in the country, disbursing nearly $1 billion in grants since 2020 to date. The grants were allotted to entrepreneurs from the ten administrative regions, with the aim of fostering growth and sustainability within the small business community.
First prize winner: Sahil Khan
Second prize winner: Samera Khan
Third prize winner: Abedah Inshan
Fourth prize winner: Quacy Joel Garnett
Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Oneidge Walrond handing over a grant to a small business owner
Decline in unauthorised siren use due to sensitisation efforts – Traffic Chief
The unauthorised use of sirens by drivers has seen a notable decline across the nation's roadways. A positive change that is largely credited to the Guyana Police Force's (GPF) ongoing sensitisation initiatives aimed at educating the public on the legal implications of misusing such equipment, says Traffic Chief, Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Singh, during a recent telephone interview with this publication.
While media reports have suggested a significant prevalence of this issue, Singh emphasised that perception often drives public concern.
"Perception usually drives conflict. As much as it was recognised – and maybe to one extent amplified when some persons were seen who were not authorised, it would have been shared widely across the media,” he noted.
Singh pointed out that the GPF's awareness programmes, which began last year and continued into
this year, have been instrumental in reducing the misuse of sirens.
These efforts included public advisories informing citizens about who is authorised to use such equipment, and the legal consequences of unauthorised use.
"The awareness programmes we have done and
the subsequent advisories from last year coming all over to this year to let them know who is so authorised and what they're doing is unlawful... That has had a deterrent effect,” he stated.
Despite these efforts, Singh acknowledged that a small number of individuals continue to use unauthorised sirens.
MMG fraudster denied bail again; court hears file still incomplete
Mohamed Ali, the man long suspected to be the mastermind behind a series of electronic payment scams, was brought before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Friday where Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty again refused bail in relation to a new fraud charge.
Ali, who remains in custody, is accused of posing as an agent of Mobile Money Guyana (MMG) to defraud a woman and her teenage daughter of more than $700,000.
He appeared in court as police continue their probe into multiple reports of financial scams involving the impersonation of MMG officials, manipulation of onetime passwords (OTPs), and unauthorised transactions affecting several victims across the country.
During the proceedings, the prosecution indicated that the virtual complainant was absent and the file in the matter was still incomplete. However, based on Ali’s known history of engaging in fraudulent activities, the prosecution made it clear that he should not be released.
The court was informed that Ali had previously been charged in connection with similar offences, and that shortly after being released for one such matter, he allegedly committed the current offence.
Magistrate McGusty, after reviewing the details, refused bail and set June 6, 2025, as the next date for re-
port and further disclosure in the case.
The charges against Ali relate to an incident that occurred on March 29, when he reportedly contacted a woman who was at the time in Suriname. Identifying himself as an MMG agent, he claimed her account required urgent updating. Using this pretext, he convinced her to provide her one-time passwords. He then contacted her 16-yearold daughter and, under the same pretext, obtained further access to the account, resulting in a $113,000 transfer.
The matter escalated when Ali allegedly arranged to meet the teenager in person at Stabroek Market. There, he reportedly convinced her that she had qualified for an MMG promotion and collected an additional $625,000 in cash from her.
After realising they had been scammed, the wom-
an and her daughter reported the matter to MMG, the Stabroek Market Police Outpost, and subsequently to the Cyber Crime Unit.
Following these reports, investigators executed an operation at High Street, Georgetown, where Ali was arrested. Several mobile phones were recovered from the premises and later examined by cybercrime analysts, who confirmed that the devices were used in the execution of the fraud.
Further investigations led to an identification parade, during which the teen reportedly picked out Ali as the individual who collected the money. In addition, surveillance footage from the area placed the suspect at the scene wearing clothing that was later found at his residence, and was lodged as evidence.
Over the past four years, Ali has been under the watch of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), the Major Crimes Unit (MCU) and the Cyber Crime Unit for his alleged role in a growing number of MMG-related scams.
These schemes included impersonating agents to trick victims into revealing sensitive information, as well as fraudulent schemes involving fake apartment rentals, housing plots, and motor vehicle sales.
Investigators believe that the recent charges form only part of a broader criminal enterprise, and that additional charges are likely as other victims come forward.
"Notwithstanding the fine being low or high, it has had a deterrent effect. There's still some people out there who have it and they do use it. Once we detect it, we will ensure that the due process is followed and you're placed before the court," he asserted.
The GPF remains committed to enforcing traffic laws and ensuring that only authorised personnel utilise sirens and emergency lights, thereby maintaining public safety and order on the nation's roadways.
As of July 17, 2024, Singh reported that enforcement teams had already confiscated approximately 15 sets of unauthorised sirens and lights.
In each case, the equip-
ment was seized and presented in court as evidence, with offenders being charged for violating prescribed fitness standards for vehicles.
Singh emphasised that while initial efforts focused on public awareness and education, the scale of the issue now necessitates immediate legal action.
In an effort to strengthen road safety and reinforce adherence to traffic regulations, the GPF had intensified its crackdown on the unauthorised use of sirens and flashing "doom lights" by private vehicle owners in July of 2024.
This enforcement drive, spearheaded by Assistant Superintendent Mahendra Singh, came amid rising concerns over the misuse of emergen -
cy-style devices by civilians attempting to mimic authorised service vehicles. Under current Guyanese law, only designated emergency services—namely the police, fire service, and ambulances—are legally permitted to operate vehicles equipped with sirens and flashing lights.
However, Superintendent Singh has flagged a disturbing trend where private individuals are outfitting their vehicles with such equipment to manoeuvre through congested traffic, especially during peak hours. These actions have raised alarm over public safety risks and the potential confusion created on roadways.
Second man remanded for Albouystown murder
Asecond man has been charged and remanded to prison in connection with the brazen daylight robbery and fatal shooting of Chandradeo Kumar Singh that occurred March 31, at Hill Street, Albouystown, Georgetown.
Akeem Mullin, whose address was not disclosed, appeared before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Friday to answer to the capital offence.
The charge alleged that on March 31, 2025, at Hill Street, Albouystown, Mullin murdered 40-year-old Singh in the course or furtherance of a robbery. Mullin was not required to plead to the indictable charge.
Magistrate McGusty denied bail and adjourned the matter until June 13, 2025.
The case against Mullin stems from the ongoing investigation into Singh’s violent death, which police say unfolded while he was sitting outside a neighbourhood shop playing cards with two other men.
Just after 10:30h on the day in question, two men on a blue and black motor-
cycle approached the group. Both suspects, who were reportedly masked and armed with handguns, fired a warning shot before singling out Singh and giving chase as he attempted to escape through an alleyway near his Lot 26 Hill Street home.
Singh was shot twice in the thighs and collapsed before reaching his yard. His attackers then robbed him of several pieces of gold jewellery and a wallet containing $40,000 in cash, before fleeing the scene.
Singh, a horse cart operator, was rushed to the hospital by neighbours and eyewitnesses, but succumbed to his injuries on April 1 during emergency surgery. His death has been classified as a murder during a robbery under aggravating circumstances.
The first person charged in the case, 25-year-old Prince Ian Jackman, a labourer from North Sophia, was arraigned on April 9, 2025, before the same court. He too, was remanded to prison.
Police believe that both Jackman and Mullin were
among a group of assailants who carried out the fatal attack on Singh.
Law enforcement authorities are meanwhile intensifying their search for the three other suspects, who are still at large.
On May 14, 2025, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) issued wanted bulletins for Ryan Goodluck, 31, of Lot 928 Herstelling, East Bank Demerara (EBD); Tyrese Mullin, 21, of Lot 25 Hill Street, Albouystown; and Damion Bobb, 22, of Bare Root, Bachelor’s Adventure, East Coast Demerara (ECD). The trio is also accused of participating in the robbery-murder.
The police is urging anyone with information on the whereabouts of these suspects to contact the nearest police station or the Criminal Investigation Department at 225-8196. All information will be treated with the strictest confidence.
With two of the alleged perpetrators now before the court, the GPF continues to pursue leads in the hope of bringing the remaining suspects to justice.
Accused: Akeem Mullin
Murder victim: Chandradeo Kumar Singh
Mohammed Ali
Traffic Chief, Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Singh
100 graduates celebrate lifechanging achievement with HMG
In a powerful demonstration of resilience, determination, and community spirit, 100 students graduated from the first semester of 2025 at the Humanitarian Mission Guyana Inc. (HMG) in a moving ceremony held at the organization’s Port Mourant headquarters.
The graduates successfully completed vocational training across six in-demand disciplines: Makeup Artistry, Nail Technology, Hairdressing, Cake Decoration, and both Basic and Advanced Information Technology.
This graduation marks another milestone in HMG’s ongoing mission to transform lives through free, skillsbased education. Since its founding in 2015, HMG has trained thousands of individuals—95 percent of whom are women—resulting in tangible improvements in self-esteem, economic independence, and quality of life.
Humanitarian Mission Guyana is a registered non-profit organization dedicated to uplifting underserved communities through education, life skills training,
and holistic outreach. With a strong focus on inclusivity, the organization provides onsite childcare services, ensuring that even single parents can participate without barriers.
“We welcome everyone, especially those who’ve faced hardship,” said HMG Founder Mr. Suresh Sugrim. “This is more than training—it’s about restoring confidence, promoting self-reliance, and creating a pathway to a better future.”
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Ashni Singh, Minister of Finance and Public Service, commended the graduates for their perseverance and highlighted their vital role in national development.
“These graduates are a shining example of the untapped potential within our communities,” said Minister Singh. “By acquiring practical, marketable skills, they have empowered themselves and are now better positioned to contribute to our nation’s growth.”
Also present was Regional Chairman and Chairman
of the Board of Industrial Training, Mr. David Armogan, who praised HMG for its continued partnership in promoting sustainable development throughout Guyana.
The ceremony featured moving testimonies from graduates who shared stories of personal growth and newfound purpose.
“This program gave me the courage to believe in myself again. Today, I’m ready to start my own business and support my family. I’ll always be grateful to the Mission,” one of the graduates expressed.
HMG remains a cornerstone in the Berbice region and beyond, offering free training and outreach across multiple sectors, including education, health, disability support, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and single-parent empowerment.
“Handouts offer shortterm relief,” said Mr. Sugrim. “But lasting change comes from empowerment. We’re building capacity, restoring
Health Ministry working to reduce mosquito population
…as citizens urged to liaise with Vector
Amid the ongoing rainy season, the Health Ministry has been working assiduously to control mosquito population in communities across the country, and as such, is urging members of the public to cooperate with the Ministry’s vector control fogging team as they execute fogging exercises across the country.
This call to action was made by the Health Ministry’s Acting Director of the Vector Control Services, Dr Reza Niles-Robin, during a recent edition of the Ministry’s Health Matters programme.
According to Dr Robin, her department is responsible for overseeing and conducting fogging exercises within the country.
“We are speaking of the Aedes Department, and here is where we principally do a lot of the fogging...and a fogging is actually a form of adulticiding, and that simply is a big word to say we're trying to kill the adult mos-
Control Fogging team
quito, because it's the adult mosquito that does the biting and does the transmission. However, the fogging is one component of many.... you could do your part at home along with the fogging; these are complementary.”
Currently, Dr Robin highlighted that these exercises are being executed across the country, in all ten administrative religions. On this point, the Acting Director urged citizens to be respectful to the persons doing their job within the various communities.
“We ask that you treat them with kindness when you see them because I know that some people, they do have one and two complaints – and we're trying to address them all, but we also ask that you collaborate with the programmes so that when you see them fogging, you cheer them on, you open your windows – you know –you prepare, you move people who may have breathing issues or disorders such as
asthma, for example.”
She added, “You just move them away from the area so that they don't breathe in the smoke. Those are some of the few simple things. But I'd also advise that they look on the Ministry of Health page, we put up a fogging advisory.”
In their efforts to reduce mosquito-borne diseases, the Ministry of Health in January had invested approximately $646 million to ensure that every region of Guyana receives fogging machines, chemicals and other essential vector control supplies. More than 100 fogging machines and the relevant supplies are to be deployed to aid in national efforts against diseases such as malaria and dengue.
With the implementation of this initiative, it is hoped that dengue, malaria and filaria cases will decrease significantly. As it relates to stats on these diseases, last year Guyana recorded some 10,000 dengue cases and 24,000 cases of malaria.
hope, and helping people take control of their own futures.”
The event was made possible through the generous
support of donors, volunteers, and community partners. Special thanks go to the Greater Guyana Initiative
and its partners for sponsoring trophies and awards that recognized student excellence.
GAIMMS launches workforce training in welding
Global Asset Integrity & Maintenance Management Services (GAIMMS) Guyana, a leading asset management solutions provider in the energy, marine, and construction sectors, has launched its first Welding and Fabrication Workshop, designed to equip apprentices with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on industrial training.
The inaugural batch includes five talented individuals (3 males, 2 females): Eliyahu Yisrael, Tia Henry, Shabique Jabbar, Alex Andrews, and Dwayne Winter.
These apprentices will join the GAIMMS team on the Yellow Tail Steel Fabrication W-BEAMS Project, gaining invaluable on-the-job experience.
This initiative is geared toward promoting local Guyanese workers in the energy sector, with global standards, industrial excellence, and international experience. The programme also offers international exchange opportunities with STEP Oil & Gas in Brazil.
GAIMMS delivers innovative asset management solutions for the energy, marine, and construction industries,
specialising in maintenance, repair, and operational optimisation. With a focus on environmentally friendly technologies, GAIMMS brings cutting-edge, safe and sustainable solutions to Guyana while fostering local expertise.
Under the leadership of Derek Cardinez, GAIMMS continues to collaborate with the Guyanese workforce to build globally competitive skills in asset management and industrial maintenance.
Addressing this grand initiative in a recent press release, the company noted that this innovative programme distinguishes itself by focusing on real-world industrial practices, ensuring participants gain skills directly applicable to major projects.
Successful graduates will have the opportunity to further refine their expertise through an international exchange programme facilitated by GAIMMS and its joint venture partner, STEP Oil & Gas in Brazil.
Derek Cardinez, a seasoned oil & gas professional, with over 25 years of experience, highlighted that the initiative is aimed at developing Guyana’s workforce with globally recognised skills.
"This initiative underscores GAIMMS’ dedication to developing Guyana’s workforce with globally recognised skills," he said. "By bridging the gap between training and industrial application, we’re preparing Guyanese talent for high-value opportunities in the energy and construction sectors."
Meanwhile, Wystan Robertson, Director and Business Development Consultant at GAIMMS, added:
"As a Guyanese company, our aim from inception was to ensure the necessary knowledge transfer to enable a competent local workforce. We started our Local Workforce Training Initiative in January 2024 with training in ColdWork Asset Maintenance and Repair Solutions, conducted by our French partner Coldpad and our local facility partner, the Guyana Technical Institute (GTI).
The Welding and Fabrication Workshop is conducted by GAIMMS’ certified professionals in partnership with STEP Oil & Gas in Brazil, to ensure that participants not only learn best practices but also gain international exposure and training to global standards."
Five Guyanese apprentices (middle row) with GAIMMS’ CEO Derek Cardinez (centre)
Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh addressing the graduates
Regional
J’ca man charged in roadrage assault on nurse
Police in St Andrew, Jamaica have charged 65- year-old businessman Robert Bell, otherwise called ‘Andy Bell’ of a St Andrew address with Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm following the assault of a nurse along Mt Friendship Road, in the parish on Tuesday, May 13.
Reports from the Stony Hill Police are that at about 7:15 pm, Bell, who was the driver of a Mercedes-Benz motor vehicle ahead of a woman’s Toyota Vitz motor car, abruptly halted and started swerving along the roadway.
The woman allegedly attempted to drive around Bell’s vehicle when he stopped, got out, shoved his head into the woman vehicle, spat in her face and struck the vehicle repeatedly with his hand.
Reports are that the nurse exited her vehicle to make checks for damages when she saw Bell with a handgun in his hands. He then flung her to the ground and physically assaulted her causing swell-
Part of the incident captured on video
ing and bruises all over her body.
A report was made to the police, and Bell was subsequently apprehended and taken into custody where he was formally charged.
The incident, parts of which were captured on video, is believed to be a case of road rage.
Bell’s court date is being finalised. (Source: Loop Jamaica News)
TT businessman, suspect killed in botched robbery
An investigation has been launched into the deaths of a 37-yearold businessman and an alleged robber, following a suspected botched robbery in Carapichaima, Trinidad on Thursday.
Police said they were called to the scene of a shooting at Rodney Road, Orangefield Road, and upon arrival, they discovered Mario Maraj kneeling outside a house with visible gunshot wounds to the head and chest.
He was reportedly gasping for breath and had a faint pulse.
Emergency Health Services were called, but Maraj died before they arrived.
A search of the premises led to the discovery of a second deceased male in the upper-level kitchen, lying in a
pool of blood.
He sustained gunshot wounds to the chest and was surrounded by a quantity of cash. Initial investigations suggest the unidentified man was one of three suspects who attempted to rob Maraj, a car parts dealer operating from the ground floor of the same building.
According to police, around 12:45 pm, Maraj was conducting business when three men entered the compound, announced a robbery, and demanded money. One of the men reportedly escorted Maraj upstairs.
Multiple gunshots were heard shortly after, and Maraj was later found wounded in the yard.
The scene was secured, and District Medical Officer Dr Boodhai pronounced both men dead. Their bodies
were ordered removed to the Forensic Science Centre for autopsies.
Investigators recovered several items of evidential value from the scene.
The hands of both deceased were bagged for forensic analysis.
Further inquiries led officers to a white Nissan Tiida bearing false registration number PDL 3722, found abandoned about 200 feet from the scene. Blood was observed on the bonnet. The vehicle was seized and taken to the Special Evidence Recovery Unit at Camp Cumuto for examination.
While police have not yet established a confirmed motive, early indications suggest the incident was a robbery gone wrong. Investigations are ongoing. (Source: Loop Trinidad & Tobago News)
Bird flu in top chicken exporter Brazil triggers trade bans
Brazil, the world's largest chicken exporter, confirmed its first outbreak of bird flu on a poultry farm on Friday, triggering a country-wide trade ban from China, and state-wide restrictions for other major consumers. The outbreak in southern Brazil was identified at a farm supplying Vibra Foods, a Brazilian operation backed by Tyson Foods, according to two people familiar with the matter.
Vibra and Tyson did not immediately respond to questions. Vibra has 15 processing
plants in Brazil and exports to over 60 countries, according to its website.
Brazil's Agriculture Minister Carlos Favaro said on Friday China had banned poultry imports from the country for 60 days. Under agreements with Japan, UAE and Saudi Arabia, he said a trade ban would only restrict shipments from the affected state and, eventually, just the municipality in question.
The outbreak occurred in the city of Montenegro in Brazil's southernmost state of Rio Grande do Sul, the farm ministry said. The state ac-
counts for 15% of Brazilian poultry production and exports, national pork and poultry group ABPA said in July 2024. State officials said the outbreak of H5N1 bird flu is already responsible for the death of 17,000 farm chickens, either directly from the disease or due to cautionary culling.
Veterinary officials are isolating the area of the outbreak in Montenegro and hunting for more cases in an initial 10 km (6 mile) radius, the state agricultural secretariat said. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Mexican indicted in US in first after cartel designated as terrorist group
A39-year-old woman is the first Mexican national to be indicted in the United States on charges of providing material support to a cartel designated as a foreign terrorist organization, the U.S. Department of Justice said on Friday, citing Texas court documents.
Maria Del Rosario Navarro is, according to the Department of Justice, accused of conspiring with others to provide grenades to Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion (CJNG), a powerful Mexican cartel that the U.S. in February designated as a terrorist organization alongside other crim-
inal groups across Latin America.
"The arrest of Maria Del Rosario Navarro Sanchez should send a clear message to people who wish to align themselves with terrorist groups that they will be sought out and held to the highest extent of the law," FBI Director Kash Patel said in the statement.
Navarro was also charged with "conspiracy to smuggle and transport aliens in the United States, straw purchasing and trafficking in firearms, bulk cash smuggling conspiracy, and conspiracy to possess a controlled substance with intent to distribute," the
Justice Department added.
Mexican Security Minister Omar Garcia Harfuch had earlier this month confirmed the arrest of Navarro, whom he described as a CJNG operator, as part of a federal-level operation in Mexico's western Jalisco state.
"The Justice Department thanks its Mexican law enforcement partners," the U.S. department added.
The U.S. terrorism designations have come alongside a government crackdown on migration, with thousands of foreigners being deported to third countries in Latin America. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Colombian police arrest suspect in Peru mine workers' killings
Police in Colombia have arrested a man suspected of being involved in the killing of 13 kidnapped workers at a gold mine in neighbouring Peru.
Miguel Antonio Rodríguez Díaz, whose alias is "Cuchillo" (knife), was arrested in the city of Medellin in a joint operation between the two countries and Interpol, according to Peru's interior ministry and Colombian police.
A lawyer for Mr Diaz has denied his involvement in the killings.
Peru is one of the largest gold producers in Latin America and has seen a surge in violence from illegal miners and organised criminal gangs.
The 13 men killed in Pataz had been sent to confront a group which had attacked and occupied the mine but were ambushed and seized as they were trying to regain control of it,
Peruvian authorities said.
Mr Diaz is suspected of allegedly ordering the storming of the mine's entrance, with the aim of stealing gold extracted by miners, Peru's interior ministry said in a statement.
He is accused of "organised crime, aggravated kidnapping and aggravated homicide", it added.
said Mr Diaz was located with the support of the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency and was subject to an Interpol red notice. Peru's interior ministry said they expected Mr Diaz to be extradited to Peru in the coming days. (Excerpt from BBC News)
US GOP hardliners defy party leaders and Trump
as they vote to block
President Donald Trump’s agenda has been thrown into chaos after a group of GOP hardliners blocked the bill in a key committee vote on Friday – dealing a major embarrassment to House Republican leaders and Trump himself.
Five Republicans opposed the bill in the Budget Committee’s meeting on Friday to stitch together the various pieces of Trump’s sweeping tax and spending cuts bill.
A core of right-wing Republicans had warned Speaker Mike Johnson and his leadership team, both privately and publicly, that they planned to oppose the
vote in the House budget panel meeting on Friday. But GOP leaders took the gamble, and went ahead with the vote anyway.
The GOP hardliners have demanded stricter overhauls for Medicaid — specifically, putting work requirements into effect immediately, rather than waiting until 2029 — and deeper cuts to a clean energy tax program.
Their opposition enraged many of their fellow Republicans, many of whom have spent months helping to draft the bill. Negotiations with leadership are still ongoing.
President Donald Trump’s “big, beautiful bill”
agenda
includes several controversial measures that would deeply cut into two of the nation’s key safety net programs – Medicaid and food stamps – while making permanent essentially all of the trillions of dollars of individual income tax breaks contained in the GOP’s 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. What’s more, it would fulfill Trump’s campaign promises to cut taxes on tips and overtime, albeit temporarily.
Overall, the House is looking for at least $1.5 trillion in spending cuts to offset the legislation’s sweeping tax breaks and investments in defense and immigration control. (Source: CNN)
Colombian police chief Carlos Triana
Miguel Rodriguez Diaz was arrested in downtown Medellin, Colombia
Oil heads for weekly gain but remains under supply hike pressure
OUkraine’s allies call Russian demands unacceptable after first talks in years
Russia and Ukraine held their first direct talks in three years, where they discussed a ceasefire and talks between the two countries’ leaders. But there were no signs of a major breakthrough – a Ukrainian source said that the Russian delegation demanded that Kyiv give up land under its control.
il prices edged up on Friday, heading for a second consecutive weekly gain on easing U.S.-China trade tensions, although gains were held back by expectations of higher supply from Iran and OPEC+.
Brent crude futures were up 97 cents, or 1.5%, at $65.50 per barrel at 01:51 pm ET (1751 GMT), while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures rose 97 cents, or 1.6%, to $62.59.
The benchmarks were headed for a weekly gain of 2.3% and 2.5% respectively.
The contracts fell by more than 2% in the previous session on the prospect of an Iranian nuclear deal, which could result in an easing of sanctions that could see Iranian crude return to the global market.
"Expected increases in OPEC+ oil production along with a more probable Iranian nuclear agreement has re-surfaced the bear trade," said Dennis Kissler, senior vice president of trading at BOK Financial.
"Near term, with geopolitical temperatures cooling, a strong seasonal travel demand will be needed in the coming months to counter the expected rises in supplies," Kissler added.
Investor sentiment was boosted this week by the U.S. and China, the world's two biggest oil consumers and economies, agreeing to a 90-day pause on their trade war during which both sides would sharply lower trade duties.
Analysts at BMI, a unit of Fitch Solutions, said in a research report, however, that "while the 90-day cooling off period leaves the door open for additional progress on lowering trade barriers on both sides, the uncertainty on longer-term trade policy will limit price upside."
On the U.S. supply side, oil rigs fell by 1 to 473 this week, their lowest since January, energy services firm Baker Hughes said in its closely followed report on Friday. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Construction tycoon among 17 wanted in Thailand over deadly tower collapse
AThai court has issued arrest warrants for 17 people including a high-profile construction tycoon, police said on Thursday, over their alleged involvement in the building of a skyscraper that collapsed and killed scores of workers during a powerful March earthquake.
Search teams recovered 89 bodies in a six-week operation in the rubble of the partially constructed 30-story State Audit Office tower in the capital Bangkok, which was the only skyscraper to collapse during tremors caused by a massive 7.7 magnitude quake in neighboring Myanmar.
The charges included building code violations that caused deaths, carrying a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, said deputy Bangkok police chief, Police Major General Somkuan Puengsap.
Thai authorities are investigating the cause of the building collapse and have yet to release findings. It was one of the deadliest accidents of its kind in
Thailand and seven people are still missing.
An anti-corruption watchdog has said it had flagged to authorities irregularities in the construction of the skyscraper before it collapsed, while industry officials said initial tests of materials at the site indicated the presence of substandard steel.
Those charged include executives and engineers from seven companies involved in the design, construction and building supervision of the collapsed tower, police said, without providing more details.
Police named only one of the 17 wanted individuals, Premchai Karnasuta, a former president of Thailand’s largest construction company Italian Thai Development Pcl ITD.BK.
Italian Thai Development has held meetings with investors and has said it was cooperating with the probe.
Premchai could not be reached for comment on Thursday. (Excerpt from CNN)
Notably, neither Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky or Russian President Vladimir Putin were there, after several days of confusion. Zelensky criticized Putin for not sending “any real decision-makers” for the talks.
The leaders of the UK, France, Germany and Poland spoke with Zelensky and Trump after Friday’s talks, calling Russia’s position “unacceptable.”
The first direct talks between Ukraine and Russia should have heralded a new era of diplomacy towards solving Europe’s largest conflict since World War II. Instead, their context, brevity and limited outcome provided skeptics with more reasons to doubt Moscow wants peace.
The three conclusions – a prisoner swap, further
talks about their presidents meeting, and both sides composing their vision of a future ceasefire –sound like progress.
But prisoner swaps occur regularly, Ukraine has already said it wants an immediate and unconditional ceasefire on air sea and land, and had already offered direct talks, between President Volodymyr Zelensky and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. Russia rejected those two ideas, but Friday said it would again consider them. (Excerpt from CNN)
Global hunger hits new high amid conflict, extreme weather – UN
Global hunger hit a new high last year with the outlook for 2025 “bleak,” according to a United Nationsbacked report.
Acute food insecurity and child malnutrition rose for a sixth consecutive year in 2024, affecting more than 295 million people across 53 countries and territories, the 2025 Global Report on Food Crises (GFRC), released on Friday, warned.
Conflict, weather extremes and economic shocks were identified as the main drivers.
The report, which provides its analysis through a collaborative effort with
United Nations agencies, states that the rise in hunger levels of 5 percent over 2023 was the sixth in a row.
Overall, 22.6 percent of populations in the worsthit regions experienced crisis-level hunger or worse.
Conflict was the leading cause of hunger, affect-
ing nearly 140 million people across 20 countries in 2024, including areas facing “catastrophic” levels of food insecurity in Gaza, South Sudan, Haiti and Mali.
Sudan has confirmed famine conditions.
Economic shocks, such as inflation and currency
devaluation, helped push 59.4 million people into food crises in 15 countries, including Syria and Yemen.
Extreme weather, particularly El Nino-induced droughts and floods, shunted 18 countries into crisis, affecting more than 96 million people, especially in Southern Africa, Southern Asia, and the Horn of Africa.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the report an “unflinching indictment of a world dangerously off course”. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
Russia jails Australian man for fighting alongside Ukraine
An Australian man who was captured by Russian forces while fighting alongside Ukraine has been sentenced to 13 years in a maximum security prison, Russian-installed prosecutors have said.
Oscar Jenkins, 33, was convicted in a Russiancontrolled court in occupied eastern Ukraine on Friday of fighting in an armed conflict as a mercenary.
Mr Jenkins, a teacher from Melbourne, was captured last December in the Luhansk region.
Prosecutors said he arrived in Ukraine in February 2024, alleging he was paid between 600,000
and 800,000 rubles (£5,504 and £7,339) a month to take part in military op -
erations against Russian troops.
A video surfaced in December last year showing Mr Jenkins with his hands tied, being hit in the face and questioned by Russian forces. They ask him if he is being paid to fight in Ukraine.
In January, Australia summoned the Russian ambassador over false reports that Mr Jenkins had been killed following his capture.
Since then, the Australian government has repeatedly called for his release. (Excerpt from BBC News)
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan chaired Friday's meeting between teams from Russia and Ukraine
Australian man Oscar Jenkins, 33, was jailed in a Russiacontrolled court in Luhansk on Friday
Tag along and enjoy the ride, but don’t get caught in someone else’s fight. Dedicate your time and invest your money in yourself and your vision. Strive for peace and positive change.
Finish what you start and enjoy the serenity of completion. Don’t underestimate the power of unity, thoroughness and honesty. An open mind and conversation will help resolve disputes.
Clear a passage forward, and don’t look back. Be secretive about your intentions until you have everything in place. Update your look and plan something romantic.
Note what’s happening in your community. Participate in events that matter. A healthy environment is the foundation for a good life. Take better care of your physical well-being.
Your energy and temper are mounting. Refuse to let trivial matters or annoying people get to you. Challenge yourself to get in shape and to compete.
Set high standards and boundaries to safeguard against unrealistic requests, and move forward confidently. If you trust and believe in yourself, so will the people you encounter.
Open doors, plan your action and follow through. Stop waiting; now is the time to act. Lead the way instead of letting others determine your road map. Love is on the rise.
Take the high road, and you’ll have no regrets. Sort through any differences with a positive attitude and a kind spirit. You are ready for change as you fight for certainty and the confidence to forge ahead.
Look for opportunities; however, whatever you choose, do it with good intentions. Refuse to get caught up in someone’s hype. Do your research and consider going it alone if you see red flags pop up.
Take another look at your pursuits or offers before you get intertwined in situations with no track record. Know what you want and refuse to budge if you are skeptical or uncertain.
Focus on your target and refuse to let anyone outmaneuver you. Pay attention to who says what and act accordingly. Balance and equality are everything when trying to achieve peace.
Be the one to make a difference and inspire others to step up and do their part. A change is apparent, but living within your means will determine how much you enjoy life.
ARCHIE
All eyes on IPL again as RCB and KKR kick off business end of league phase
TThe Big Picture
he contest that launched IPL 2025 now returns to take center stage after an unexpected 10-day pause, caused by escalating border tensions between India and Pakistan. With the simmering tension having eased, and a ceasefire called by both countries, the stillness of the past week has slowly given way to a surge in anticipation as the IPL enters the business end.
Even as several overseas players returned home, logistics personnel across the board have worked tirelessly, navigating the chaos of sudden travel changes, disrupted itineraries, and comprehensive security protocols to make IPL's resumption possible.
In the thick of all this scramble, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have had to hit the ground running, having had to make do with just one full session and a half (owing to evening rain) to shake off a hint of rust and jet lag in equal measure.
Meanwhile, the M Chinnaswamy Stadium has been a hive of activity over the past 48 hours. Fuelling the frenzy is a homecoming layered with sentiment: the return of Virat Kohli, who is set to play his first match since announcing his retire-
ment from Test cricket last week.
Mindful of the weather over the past three days, RCB trained in the afternoon, and KKR early evening. Some players, like Mayank Agarwal, a late replacement for the injured Devdutt Padikkal, were given extended runs, while others eased in more cautiously.
RCB haven't cracked the top-two since 2016, when they finished runners-up. Currently second with eight wins, they now find them-
selves possibly just two wins away from breaking that long-standing barrier. For KKR, the path is far more precarious. They need not just back-to-back wins that will get them to 15 points, but also a complex sequence of other results to fall in their favour to be able to spark an unlikely net runrate shootout and sneak into the playoffs as the fourthplaced team.
In the spotlight
Rajat Patidar's form had considerably dropped be-
fore the IPL took a pause. He had averaged just 10.6 in his last five innings after a strong start - he'd averaged 37.2 in his first five games. Patidar's struggles have been more exaggerated at home - where he averages just 14.4 while striking at 101. In contrast, both his half-centuries have come away, where he struck at 169. If the form slump wasn't a concern, he's also been hampered by a finger injury. Fortunately, though, the 10-day break has given him time to recuperate. RCB believe he's good to go, but a final call will be taken on match-eve.
In his last two innings alone, Andre Russell has managed more runs (95 at
a strike rate of 207) than he did in the entire season prior to that (72 in seven innings at 131). There's been a marked approach - both in term of his ball-striking as well as the team management's desire to give him more batting time rather than focusing on specific entry points. On match-eve, Russell hit them clean and big, repeatedly hitting balls out of the ground.
Team news and probable XII RCB are without Josh Hazlewood, who is continuing to manage his shoulder niggle. RCB are in close touch with Cricket Australia but for now, they're adopting a wait-and-watch approach with regards to his
availability for the playoffs. There's also a slight injury cloud over Rajat Patidar, but indications are he'll play.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Likely XII): 1 Phil Salt, 2 Virat Kohli, 3 Mayank Agarwal, 4 Rajat Patidar (capt), 5 Jitesh Sharma (wk), 6 Romario Shepherd, 7 Tim David, 8 Krunal Pandya, 9 Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 10 Yash Dayal, 11 Lungi Ngidi, 12 Suyash Sharma KKR are without Moeen Ali and Rovman Powell. All other players are available. Kolkata Knight Riders (Likely XII): 1 Sunil Narine, 2 Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), 3 Ajinkya Rahane (capt), 4 Venkatesh Iyer, 5 Angkrish Raghuvanshi/Manish Pandey, 6 Rinku Singh, 7 Andre Russell, 8 Ramandeep Singh, 9 Vaibhav Arora, 10 Harshit Rana, 11 Varun Chakravarthy, 12 Anrich Nortje/Spencer Johnson
Pitch and conditions
There's been intermittent thunderstorms in Bengaluru over the past week. Both teams couldn't get a glimpse of the surface on training days as they were largely covered all evening. The moisture underneath is bound to aid swing and allow bowlers to get some zip off the surface. There forecast for Saturday is for thunderstorms late afternoon and evening.
Clayton runs world-leading 10.92 in Doha
…wins for Broadbell, Ricketts as Jamaican stars shine bright
Tia Clayton announced herself as a serious force in global sprinting on Friday, blazing to a world-leading 10.92 seconds to win the women’s 100m at the Doha Diamond League in a brilliant start to her international campaign.
The 20-year-old Jamaican, one-half of the sprinting twin sensation alongside sister Tina Clayton, surged to victory in a competitive field that included global veterans and rising stars. Tina, also showing top form, finished second in 11.02, ahead of Great Britain’s Amy Hunt, who clocked a personal best 11.03. Shelly-Ann FraserPryce, the five-time world champion making her season debut, was fourth in 11.05.
Tia’s victory, marked by clean execution and fierce closing speed, not only gave her the fastest time in the world so far this year but also firmly placed her
among the elite contenders ahead of the summer’s major championships. There was more to celebrate for Jamaica in the men’s 110m hurdles, where Rasheed Broadbell, the Tokyo Olympic bronze medallist, powered to a season-best 13.14 seconds to secure the win. Broadbell looked sharp and confident as he controlled the race from start to finish, continu-
ing his consistent start to 2025.
The USA’s Jamar Britt finished second in 13.25 while Spain’s Enrique Lopez was close behind in 13.27 for third.
In the women’s triple jump, Shanieka Ricketts extended her dominance on the Diamond League circuit, taking victory with a season-best leap of 14.72m. Ricketts edged Dominica’s
Thea LaFond, the Paris Olympic silver medallist, who jumped 14.39m for second place.
Frenchwoman Ilinois Guillaume produced a leap of 14.20m for third.
Bahrain’s Salwa Eid Naser continued her impressive form this season
with another victory, this time in a meet-record 49.83.
Natalia Bukowiecka (former Kaczmarek) claimed second place in a season-best 50.92. Lieke Klaver finished third in 51.12.
Caribbean women took the next two places. Twotime World Championship
bronze medalist Barbados’ Sada Williams was fourth in 51.32 while Shafiqua Maloney of St Vincent and the Grenadines was not far behind in fifth in a time of 51.54.
Grenada’s Anderson Peters produced a season-best throw of 85.64m to claim third place in a high-quality javelin showdown, while Trinidad and Tobago’s Keshorn Walcott finished just behind in fourth with a solid 84.65m. The battle for top honours came down to a thrilling duel between India’s Neeraj Chopra and Germany’s Julian Weber. Chopra, the Olympic and World Champion, appeared to have sealed the win with a massive 90.23m effort on his third attempt. But it was Weber who stole the spotlight, launching a world-leading throw of 91.06m on his final attempt to snatch victory with a new personal best. (Sportsmax)
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Won by 7 Wickets in their last encounter
Tia Clayton ran a world-leading 10.92s
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) set to play the next IPL game.
L. Mahabeer and Son Cambio join DCB for the Independence T10 Cup
For the forthcoming Independence T10 Cup, corporate sponsorship is still pouring in, with L. Mahabeer and Son Cambio being the most recent business to commit to the competition.
On May 25, the LBI Ground, East Coast Demerara, will host the fund-raising event. Earlier this week, Lookeshwar 'Vick' Mahabeer, the CEO of L. Mahabeer and Son Cambio, gave cash to Davteerth Anandjit, the secretary of the Demerara Cricket Board (DCB).
The cambio's site on King Street in Georgetown served as the venue for the presentation. West Indies Over-40 player and cricket enthusiast Mahabeer said he was thrilled to be a part of the much-anticipated competition. He wished the DCB luck in its efforts to raise much-needed money to support the expansion and advancement of the sport in the Demerara County. In addition to Office Express, Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, Anil Beharry Real Estate, Construction and General Business Services, and Naven's Construction, L. Mahabeer and Son Cambio is the fifth company to sponsor the competition.
Anandjit thanked Mahabeer for his thoughtful gesture and emphasized the value of business backing in promoting the game's growth. According to the
DCB executive, the board is incredibly appreciative of everyone who has supported the tournament, whether financially or in other ways.
Plans for the great Independence T10 Cup are well underway, according to Anandjit, who also stated that teams and players will be revealed in the days ahead. With a one-game knockout format, eight of the county's first division teams will battle for top honors.
The one-day tournament will feature awards and a total cash prize of G$500,000.
Each team is permitted to have two guest players from other counties, even though the teams will be represented by players from the corresponding organizations. The winning squad will get G$250,000 in cash and a trophy, the runners-up G$150,000 and a trophy, and the losing semi-finalists G$50,000 apiece. A trophy will be awarded to the Manof-the-Match in the semifinals and final on the individual side. At 10:00 am, the action will begin, and it will end under floodlights.
Jokic stars as Nuggets take Thunder semi-final to game seven
Nikola Jokic scored 29 points and recorded 14 rebounds as the Denver Nuggets beat the Oklahoma City Thunder 119-107 to force a decisive seventh game in their Western Conference semi-final series.
Denver headed into Thursday's match 3-2 down in the series after squandering late leads in games five and six, but fought back after half-time to earn a trip to Oklahoma City for Game seven on Sunday, 18 May at 14:30 local time (20:30 BST).
"To win that [fourth] quarter, after what's happened the last two games, says a lot of our guys and the fact that they can bounce back from anything - I keep saying that," said Denver interim coach David Adelman. "We just keep finding our way."
Jamal Murray shook off an illness to produce 25 points, eight rebounds and seven assists, while Christian Braun added 23 points and 11 rebounds, and Julian Strawther came off
the bench to score 15 points, his postseason career high.
The Nuggets needed a seventh game to eliminate the Los Angeles Clippers in the first round.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 32 points for the Thunder, who ended the regular season top of the Western Conference with a 68-14 record.
Chet Holmgren wound up with 19 points and 11 rebounds, and Luguentz Dort, Alex Caruso and Cason Wallace scored 10 points apiece.
The Minnesota Timberwolves await either Denver or Oklahoma City in the Western Conference final - last year they defeated the Nuggets in game seven of the Western Conference semi-finals. (BBC Sport)
A Club for All: LGC expands access to the game for Women, Juniors, and Newcomers
The Lusignan Golf
Club (LGC) is swinging open its gates wider than ever before, launching new efforts to make the game of golf more inclusive across Guyana. With a strong focus on engaging women, juniors, and firsttime players, the club is rolling out programs aimed at growing the sport’s reach and deepening community impact.
One of the most exciting developments is the club’s recent engagement with a group of enthusiastic women who’ve dubbed themselves the Fairway Ladies. This vibrant mix of business professionals and women from the diplomatic corps—many of whom are completely new to the sport—have expressed a keen interest in becoming part of the LGC community.
“We’re planning to engage them by providing coaches and introductory sessions to the game,” said LGC Secretary Chet Bowling. “Our goal is to eventually launch what we hope will become a Women’s Golf League. These women are excited, and we want to create a space where they can learn, play, and grow within the sport.”
Bowling also highlighted the club’s dedication to junior development through its upcoming Annual Summer Camp, scheduled for July and August. “We’re currently in the planning stages and have reached out to Republic Bank, who sponsored us in 2023, to come on board again. It’s an extensive program where we run
clinics across Regions 4, 5, 6, and 10. Some of our members volunteer to travel and conduct those clinics, which all lead up to a grand finale at the Lusignan Golf Club.”
These initiatives reflect LGC’s broader mission to break down the traditional barriers surrounding golf and make the sport accessible to everyone—from schoolchildren in rural areas to women seeking new recreational outlets.
With the club continuing to host major tournaments and build partnerships, its outreach and inclusivity efforts show that the Lusignan Golf Club is not just a venue for elite players, but a community hub for all Guyanese who want to experience the joy and challenge of golf.
As Bowling emphasized, “It’s all about building a golf culture in Guyana—one that’s welcoming, engaging, and truly representative of the diverse talent and potential we have across the country.”
Nikola Jokic led the scoring for the Denver Nugget
Businessman Lookeshwar 'Vick' Mahabeer (left) presents the sponsorship to Secretary of the DCB Davteerth Anandjit
LGC Secretary Chet Bowling
Guyana’s Golden Boy Raekwon Noel added to his goldmedal cabinet on Friday night with scoring big once
4 in 4 Gold for Noel
again at the Pan American Aquatics Championships in Medellin, Colombia. Noel picked up his first gold medal of the evening in the 1922 years 100M Backstroke event, stopping the clock at 56.78s, lowering the Nationals record which he
had reset only hours prior in the events’s preliminary round.
Colombia’s Gabriel Hernandez clocked 57.04s for second place while Puerto Rico’s Suil Quinoes finished in 59.27s to complete the podium.
In the qualifying round on Friday morning, the 19-year-old registered 56.88s for a spot in the final and a new National record. The previous record in that event stood at 57.72s.
Later that evening, Noel romped to his fourth Gold medal of the Championships in the 400M Freestyle event. The Guyanese stopped the clock
Chase, Warrican are new Windies
Test Captain, Vice- Captain
Cricket West Indies (CWI), on Friday announced the appointment of Roston Chase as West Indies Test Captain for the upcoming home series versus Australia in June, with Jomel Warrican named as Vice-Captain. The appointments were unanimously approved by the CWI Board of Directors during its meeting held today, May 16, 2025.
This announcement follows the completion of a groundbreaking, robust and structured process to evaluate and recommend the next captain and vice-captain of the West Indies Test team.
Recognizing the critical role of leadership in shaping team culture, driving performance, and ensuring long-term success, CWI adopted a data-informed, multi-dimensional framework to guide the selection. This marks a significant evolution in how leadership appointments are made, aimed at strengthening accountability, transparency, and alignment with modern cricketing standards.
The process began with a shortlist of candidates selected based on factors including Test experience, leadership qualities, and captaincy credentials. The shortlisted players included: John Campbell, Tevin Imlach, Joshua Da Silva, Justin Greaves, Roston Chase, and Jomel Warrican.
Shai Hope, the current ODI and T20I captain, respectfully declined consideration to focus on his existing leadership roles.
Each candidate went through a detailed assessment process that included psychometric testing to evaluate leadership style, behaviour, and overall suitability for the role, as well as structured interviews focused on tactical approach, communication skills, and team culture. The interview panel consisted of Head Coach Daren Sammy, Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe, and Chairman of the Cricket Strategy and Officiating Committee, Enoch Lewis.
The final recommendation was based on a weighted scoring system across six key areas: leadership, respect within the team, cricket knowledge, personal conduct, media and communication skills, and the results of the psychometric evaluation. The topranked candidates were recommended as captain and vice-captain and subsequently approved by the CWI Board.
CWI President Dr. Kishore Shallow praised the integrity and innovation of the process.
“This selection process is one of the most comprehensive and forward-thinking we have undertaken. I am deeply impressed by the professionalism, objectivity, and strategic thinking that shaped the final decision. It sets a new benchmark for leadership appointments in West Indies cricket.”
Head Coach Daren Sammy also expressed his strong support for the new captain.
“I fully endorse this appointment. Our new captain
at 4:00.66 for first place, taking a whopping 5 seconds off his preliminary swim earlier that day.
Hours prior, Noel had clocked 4:05.96 in the 19-22 400M freestyle preliminaries, becoming the fastest qualifier for the finals.
Earlier this week, The Indiana University swimmer first took to the pool in the 19-22 years 100M Butterfly event, clocking 54s for the gold medal and a new national record. Mauel
54.52s. Noel previously held the 100M Butterfly record which he set at 56.35s back in 2023.
Noel then rewrote another one of his own National records, betting his 200M Butterfly time.
In the 19-22 event’s preliminary run on Thursday morning; the Guyanese
swimmer stopped the clock at 2:03.33s. Noel’s previous record stood at 2:04.21s. Later that evening, Noel took his medal count to two gold with another championship- winning swim. Noel stopped the clock at 2:02.53 to further lower his National record in the 200M event and to claim first place while Puerto Rico’s Andres Brooks was second in 2:04.04. Completing the podium was Mexico’s Mark Van Eybergrn in 2:05.69.
Fitness Express backs GAPLF’s Intermediates/Masters Competition
Set for the St. Stanislaus College Auditorium on Sunday May 19, 2025, Fitness Express is continuing its long-term support of powerlifting in Guyana.
has earned the respect of his peers, understands the responsibility that comes with the role, and has shown the leadership qualities we need to take this team forward. I urge fans across the region to rally behind him—we’re building something special.”
These appointments signal a clear strategic direction for the Test team, reinforcing team culture and positioning the West Indies to compete more effectively on the global stage. CWI also sees this process as a model for future captaincy appointments across all formats.
Cricket West Indies commends all candidates for their professionalism and commitment throughout the process and looks forward to the positive impact this new leadership approach will have on the continued resurgence of West Indies cricket.
Roston’s first outing as captain will be the “WI Home: Full Ah Energy” home series against Australia, with the first match at Kensington Oval on June 25, 2025.
Under a new President now, Paul Meusa who took over the reins of the federation from Franklin Wilson two weeks ago, Meusa’s first assignment will be the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF) Intermediates and Masters competition.
In congratulating Meusa on his ascendancy to the helm of the sport, Owner/ Manager of Fitness Express, Jamie McDonald said that he was more than happy to maintain his company’s commitment to the development of the sport, stating that Fitness Express has been backing powerlifting since it restarted under the then President, Peter Green who was succeeded by Ed Caesar and subsequently, Gordon Spencer.
“It’s a tradition for us here at Fitness Express to continually back the progress of the athletes. We are satisfied that our continued investment has seen the sport rise and our athletes become consistent meddlers for Guyana. We’d love to see this maintained under your stewardship and as continue to empower the federation.”
Meusa expressed the gratitude of his new executive and all the athletes whilst committing to continue building and developing the sport.
Sunday’s Intermediates and Masters competition will take place at Saint Stanislaus College with the weigh-in of athletes beginning at 06:00hrs, lifting time is from 09:00hrs.
Fitness Express’ Jamie McDonald hands over sponsorship to GAPLF’s Paul Meusa.
New West Indies Test Vice-Captain Jomel Warrican
The new West Indies Test Captain Roston Chase
Raekwon Noel has now clinched four gold medals at the Pan Am Aquatics Championships
Diaz of Venezuela was second in 54.27s while Puerto Rico’s Andres Brooks had to settle for the bronze medal in
