Nomination Day set for July 14 – GECOM
…political parties must submit symbols for approval by June 22
10th National Clean-up Exercise set for June 7
Govt makes nationwide push
GWI leading Caribbean’s water security efforts – Croal
“Delusional PR stunt” – Jagdeo calls Azruddin’ Mohamed’s presidential ambition
Miner jailed for 10 years for setting friend on fire
“I took the opportunity to serve” – Parag during crossexamination 2020 Elections fraud case
Guyana launches ‘One Health Project’ to boost pandemic preparedness
Adrianna Younge autopsy claims Nursing assistant charged for terrorism released on $350,000 bail
Nomination Day set for July 14 – GECOM
…political parties must submit symbols for approval by June 22
With September 1, 2025 set as the date for the holding of General and Regional Elections this year, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has announced that Nomination Day would be on July 14, 2025. Consequently, Political
Parties desirous of contesting the upcoming elections will be required to submit their respective Lists of Candidates on Nomination Day, in keeping with statutory provisions.
The law prescribed that the submissions of the lists of candidates and nominators will have to be done
strictly on Nominations Day and within the timeframe set – no time earlier or later.
In a statement on Friday, GECOM noted that the respective statutory forms for the submission of Lists of Candidates are accessible on its website at www.gecom.org.gy.
Additionally, political parties will be required to submit applications for the allocation of symbols to be approval by the Elections Commission by June 22, 2025.
These announcements come on the heels of the seven-member Elections Commission approving the workplan for the holding of the 2025 General and Regional Elections.
That workplan, prepared by Chief Election Officer (CEO) Vishnu Persaud, was given the greenlight during a statutory meeting held on Thursday. With this approval, the GECOM Secretariat is now authorised to proceed with the implementation of the tasks delineated in the workplan to ensure that the elections are conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner.
Government-nominated
GECOM Commissioner, Sase Gunraj, previously explained to this newspaper that the workplan entails a list of tasks; the period allotted for the execution of those tasks, and the dates for completion prior to the holding of elections, as well as for activities even after the elections, including as it relates to results.
“The work plan is important because that is basically the Commission’s guidance to the Secretariat to execute. So, the fact that we have that approved, the Secretariat is free to follow it to facilitate the holding of elections,” Gunraj had explained on Thursday evening.
This approval, however, did not come without challenges.
The date for elections was announced by President Dr Irfaan Ali after consulting with the GECOM Chair, (Ret’d) Justice Claudette Singh. However, the three Oppositionaligned Commissioners at GECOM had claimed during a press conference on Tuesday morning that the Commission was not ready to hold elections and
that they were looking at a workplan with a date towards the end of September.
The Commissioners had even walked out of a statutory meeting on Tuesday last.
However, GECOM subsequently clarified, via a statement, that the workplan mentioned by the Opposition Commissioners was merely a schedule of activities to give an idea of the timeframe for holding the elections. In fact, the elections body noted that the Secretariat even consider a date as earlier at August 25.
Nevertheless, at another meeting was held by the Elections Commission on Thursday, saw the participation of the Opposition Commissioners during which the workplan for September 1 was approved.
Continuous registration
Meanwhile, the Elections Commission on Friday also indicated that since it has been conducting continuous registration throughout the year and since January 2023, a short Claims and Objections exercise will be held prior to polling day.
This exercise will run from June 16 to 20, 2025, and is in keeping with the legal requirement to produce an Official Lists of Electors (OLE) to be used for the conduct of the elections, GECOM said.
Eligible persons who will be 18 years and older by June 30, 2025 and have not been registered, can apply for registration during this period to be included in the OLE in order to be eligible to vote in September 1 elections.
Persons who are already registered can apply for (i) correction of incorrect particulars on their National Identification Cards, (ii) name change if they have changed their name(s) since they were registered, and (iii) transfers if they have changed their addresses since they were registered. However, it is of crucial importance to note that any elector who have changed their residential address from one electoral division/ district, that is, Region, to another, will have to go the polling station associated with their previous address in order to vote at the elections.
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, May 31 – 03:55h-04:55h and 19:55h-21:25h and Saturday, May 31 – 20:55h-22:25h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, May 31 – 06:05h-07:35h and Saturday, May 31 –06:55h-08:25h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Rain showers with instances of thunder are expected during the day and at night, with sunshine in the early morning and late afternoon. Temperatures are expected to range between 22 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 1.34 metres and 3.59 metres.
High Tide: 06:27h and 19:05h reaching maximum heights of 2.61 metres and 2.37 metres.
Low Tide: 12:35h reaching a minimum height of 0.63 metre.
Govt to co-invest with farmers to expand meat production in Region 5 – Pres Ali
ith the aim of positioning Region Five (MahaicaBerbice) as the livestock capital in Guyana, President Dr Irfaan Ali has outlined a slew of initiatives geared towards supporting farmers in expanding their production capacity. The Head of State made these announcements on Friday while addressing farmers as well as fisherfolks at Region Five.
According to President Ali, Guyana has earned tremendous global accolades in agriculture and food production over the last four years and the aim over the next five years would be to set the country as the Caribbean’s food production capital in every category.
When it comes to the livestock industry, Guyana is currently self-sufficient in table eggs and poultry. But the Guyanese Leader noted that he wants Guyana to be able to produce hatching eggs here as well as expand poultry production to build local export capacity.
“But not only expanding poultry production but ensuring that we build the mechanism through which the input costs will be reduced. That is why we’re investing in our own feed mill, and also investing in having the input for the production of the feed.”
“So, we want to be able to have a livestock industry that is fully diversified. And we want Region Five to be the capital of our livestock industry,” the President noted.
To this end, Ali outlined some specific initiatives that would be undertaken by his administration to expand the local livestock industry. Key among these is forging partnerships with livestock farmers.
“One of the challenges for farmers is to find capital at good interest rates sometimes. So, what we’re planning to do is to create a special development fund and an investment vehicle through which the Government will co-invest with our farmers in building medium and mega-scale farms.”
According to the Head of State, the initiative will target farmers across various communities in the region, grouping them together to provide access to financial facilities and equip them with resources such as machinery. The aim is to enable them to take charge of critical ser -
vices, including drainage and irrigation.
Blackbelly sheep expansion
Speaking directly to sheep farmers, President Ali informed them that
tures and grazing, among other things.
“For our sheep farmers, everybody can’t do the same thing and we don’t want everyone to be double dipping. So, what we
rent flock and make this region a real sheep capital …in terms of mutton production. So, that’s one of the initiatives that we’ll be implementing in [the coming] months, not years,” the Head of State stressed.
He went onto note that a similar approach would be taken for farmers engaged in swine production to expand their output.
Opening up of new lands
Key to all of these initiatives, however, is the new Hope-like Canal project in Region Five – an investment of about $18.4 billion. Also known as high level canals, this fa -
Government will be working with them in coming months to not only have the blackbelly programme expanded but to also create new areas for feed stocks as well as for pas -
want to create is, if we have 500 sheep farmers, we want to give them at least 10 sheep that are impregnated – high yielding, high breeding – so that you can expand your cur -
cility will be built to drain excess water from the land especially where farms are located to avoid flooding.
President Dr Irfaan Ali at a public meeting in Region Five
A section of the gathering at a public meeting with President Dr Irfaan Ali in Region Five on Friday
Editor: Tusika Martin
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Digital evolution
The historic launch of Guyana’s first Internet Exchange Point (IXP), aptly named GYIXP, marks a defining breakthrough in the nation's journey toward digital independence and technological sovereignty. This development carries transformative potential, not only for internet infrastructure but for the entire socio-economic fabric of the country. It signifies more than just a networking facility, it represents a foundational investment in national self-reliance, resilience, and progress.
By enabling local Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to interconnect directly within national borders, the GYIXP eliminates the long-standing dependence on costly and vulnerable international routing. Previously, digital traffic between networks within Guyana often detoured through international hubs such as Miami, introducing latency, higher costs, and unnecessary inefficiencies. With the establishment of the IXP, such traffic will now remain local, resulting in faster speeds, improved stability, and significantly reduced costs for consumers and businesses alike.
This digital evolution is timely and laudable. With fewer than 120 IXPs across Latin America and the Caribbean, Guyana’s entry into this arena enhances its stature in regional technological development. More importantly, the launch reinforces Guyana’s commitment to modern infrastructure, technological autonomy, and innovation-led growth, objectives in alignment with both CARICOM’s digital agenda and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The benefits of the GYIXP span multiple critical sectors. In education, for instance, the impact will be profound. As the Prime Minister highlighted, over 90 percent of the nation’s educational institutions—from nursery schools to universities—are already connected to the internet, with the remainder to be connected imminently. The improved connectivity afforded by the GYIXP will ensure faster access to online educational resources, support the integration of STEM and digital skills into curricula, and enable the broader modernization of the learning environment.
In the public service sector, this will foster greater efficiency, improve service delivery, and bolster emergency response capacities. As digital government expands, with over 60 online services already available, the GYIXP will underpin this digital transformation by supporting more reliable and secure communication channels.
Crucially, the GYIXP also enhances national security and continuity. In the event of disruptions to the international submarine cable systems, Guyana will retain access to local digital services and platforms. This level of infrastructure resilience is not merely a convenience—it is a strategic safeguard in an increasingly interconnected and data-driven global economy.
The non-profit nature of this initiative highlights the collaborative and visionary leadership that brought it to fruition.
The establishment of a robust governance framework for the GYIXP signals more than administrative prudence, it reflects a deliberate strategy to anchor Guyana’s digital infrastructure in transparency, collaboration, and long-term vision. With a dedicated management committee at the helm, the interests of all stakeholders—peers, hosts, and members, are safeguarded, ensuring that the exchange remains an engine for innovation rather than a gatekeeper.
This is not a passive step forward but a decisive stride into digital maturity. Guyana is no longer content to follow global trends; it is positioning itself to define its own digital path. The GYIXP is more than a technical facility, it is the connective tissue of a modern digital economy, capable of supporting everything from e-governance to private sector innovation and educational transformation.
To sustain this momentum, the commitment must go beyond launch-day celebration. Strategic investments in skills development, digital literacy, and next-generation infrastructure are essential. The promise of GYIXP lies not just in its cables and servers, but in its potential to empower people and institutions alike.
This achievement is, at its core, an act of nation-building, an affirmation that Guyana is ready not just to participate in the digital era, but to lead with intention and confidence.
The turning point that wasn’t: the way the world talks about Israel’s war has changed. Nothing else has
By NesriNe Malik
An air of complicity has prompted new rhetoric from UK and EU leaders. But it won’t redeem them – or change history’s course
Why now? That’s the question. Why now, after 19 months of relentless assault that was plain for all to see, and declared by Israeli authorities themselves, has the tide begun to shift on Gaza?
The marked change in tone this past week from leaders in the UK and EU is a clear break from the pabulum of “concerns” and reiterations of Israel’s right to defend itself. Now the rhetoric is that Israel’s actions are “morally unjustifiable” and “wholly disportionate”, and the threats of its leaders “abhorrent”. Some of this is future-proofing. The war has amounted to genocide and ethnic cleansing in ways that are increasingly undeniable, indefensible and unspinnable. Some had a good go at it for a year and a half, but now cannot stand at a lectern or sit at a dinner table and argue that, yes, actually, there is an argument for killing 100 people a day, as was the case last week. Or that Israel has any plan other than what its leaders have consistently declared to be one of displacement and settlement. Long gone is the argument that this is simply about wiping out Hamas. Israel, as one British media ally lamented, has hung its friends out to dry.
But there is a disconnect between condemnation and outrage, and what happens on the ground. When it comes to Israel, the levers of inter-
national censure are broken. Throughout the war, international organisations, humanitarian missions and courts of justice have been rendered powerless by their inability to translate their findings into action. Words alone mean nothing. They simply bounce off Israel’s iron dome of impunity. Every day, the world wakes up and is confronted with an Israeli leadership that violates every law of morality and logic. Victims are aggressors, humanitarians are biased, an army that kills unarmed medics is the most moral army in the world.
The recent change in language from Israel’s international allies is remarkable. But it would be dangerous to overestimate its significance. Israeli authorities not only do not care, but draw strength from the condemnation. It all serves to prove that the country is on its own and must persevere because it is, as ever, misunderstood, discriminated against, surrounded by enemies. The shift feels like a breakthrough only in comparison to what came before. For so long, the act of calling what is happening in Gaza by its name has been traduced, even criminalised. There are people sitting in detention for the charge of describing reality. If anything, the past year and a half has seen a series of breakthroughs that signified nothing; historic protests, a sea change in global public opinion, a tussle at the heart of western political, legal and academic institutions over the right to protest against an unfolding genocide. Palestine, once a marginal issue, has be-
come a mainstream one that lies at the heart of western politics and discourse. And yet, as long as governments with leverage over Israel refused to act, none of that saved a single life.
There is still something in this moment that could be expanded into something meaningful. Politics tends towards inertia – the observance of alliances and the status quo. To upend that requires real crisis, yet Israel has managed to escalate its campaign in Gaza to a level that has scaled even that high bar. Standing by as a population starves, watching lives ebb away in plain sight, seeing the ribs and hollowed eye sockets of lethargic children, governments are tarred with the stain of complicity. To deprive people of food, to have such power over them, is not a military campaign of strategic goals involving regrettable collateral damage – it is the creation of a ghetto of mass punishment. A defining chapter of history is being written. The sponsors of this act are clearly identifiable, emphatically supportive, and yet now seem thrown off by the position they find themselves in. Duration also plays a role. It’s all gone on for too long and it has become clear that it is impossible to force through a habituation to mass murder. But it might also be this particular phase of Israel’s campaign, which is luridly more savage and naked in its intentions than it’s ever been. If this new attitude taken by western leaders is designed to fend off a reckoning, then it’s too little, too late: the
record has already been taken. If it is to deter Israel from following through on its plans of scorching the conditions for life, forcing people to leave, and starving and killing those who remain, then they are facing down a juggernaut using little more than press releases. The gulf between Israel’s actions and the world’s reaction is still too wide to be proportional. The Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has already insulted France, the UK and Canada, accusing their governments of siding with Hamas just for finally stating the obvious: that Israel should stop killing and starving people. In what world does a member of government declare that it intends to wipe out what remains of an area and aims, “with God’s help”, to remove its inhabitants, only for the response be nothing more than vague threats of “concrete action”? What deterrence is required to stop a doctor going to work and then returning to the charred remains of nine of her 10 children, wiped out in a single blow?
It will take far more than the reviewing and suspension of future trade talks between Israel and the UK. Those mechanisms of censure that signal displeasure and motivate outlaws to come back into the fold have been shattered by an Israel that has made a virtue out of being outside it: the kind of action required would necessitate the overturning of deeply held fears and assumptions. (Excerpted from The Guardian)
(Nesrine Malik is a Guardian columnist)
Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Carolyn Rodrigues Birkett met with the United Nations Secretary General António Guterres, before Guyana takes up its seat as President of the United Nations Security Council for June 2025 (Permanent Mission of Guyana to the United Nations photo)
PPP/C’s unstinting patriotism
Dear Editor,
The walkout of the National Assembly by the PNC/APNU/AFC members during the debate on the motion which was intended to show solidarity and unity of the Guyanese political forces in light of Venezuela’s ridiculous claims on Guyana’s territory was really shameful and borders on anti-patriotism.
The excuse used to show opposition to the
Government was the lack of consultations. Vice-
President Bharrat Jagdeo debunked this and gave dates when the draft motion was in the hands of the opposition.
However, even if Mr Norton was correct and there was no consultation with the opposition it does not justify the walk out on such a vital national issue.
The walk out would surely be seen in Caracas with
some satisfaction. If the opposition can take such an action on such an issue, how far will they go to oppose and try to depose the PPP/C Administration.
When the PPP/C was in the Opposition between 1964 to 1992 this issue came up on several occasions. PPP leader and members came out in full support of the PNC Government in face of the threat to our territorial integrity. When the
Venezuelan occupied our half of the Ankoko island PPP and PYO members took to the streets, together with PNC and YSM members in a massive show of solidarity.
In 1975 when the threat to the PNC regime looked serious from Venezuela and the US, the PPP changed its political line from non-cooperation with the PNC regime to one of ‘Critical Support.’
It is apposite to recall
that this was shortly after the PNC massively and blatantly rigged the 1973 elections.
In that massive rigging exercise by the PNC regime hundreds of PPP members and supporters were arrested and two of them, Jagan Ramessar and Bholanauth Parmanand were shot and killed at No. 64 Village on the Corentyne.
Despite the repression, the PPP came out to show
total unity and solidarity. Dr Cheddi Jagan told the whole country that he wanted it to be clear to all foreign forces that the PPP would stand solidly behind the then PNC Government in the face of any attempt to attack our country. That, Mr Norton, is real patriotism.
Sincerely, Donald Ramotar Former President
Those rejected by international institutions
Dear Editor,
Over the last weekend we have seen several new developments in the political arena. First, we saw the announcement of the date for upcoming General & Regional Elections by HE President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali. The date which has been set, September 1st, 2025, has caught many persons off guard though some were not surprised. The other development which was not surprising either is the announcement by one philanthropic tax evader declaring his candidacy for presidency in the upcoming elections.
That second development is one that we must pay close attention to and not get carried away easily by what we see on the surface. The announcement was made by someone who we all know has been sanctioned by the US for tax fraud and evasion. What does this mean for Guyana and what are the likely repercussions?
The individual in question has for a few years now began to go public and carry out charitable work. It’s quite ironic for a man to rob a country of its taxes and then go about sharing out financial aid, building houses, etc for persons claiming it is done from pure love, care and ded-
ication. In doing so, some persons have fallen in love with the work of this individual turning a blind eye to the other side of the story. To this effect, the individual has deliberately used the opportunity to draw public sympathy. One can simply ask the question “Buying Votes or Buying Sympathy?”
An individual sanctioned by a foreign country especially countries like the UK, USA, Canada, etc and running for President is a huge threat to the economic, democratic, political and security stability of that country.
In Guyana’s case, should the sanctioned individual contest and by some miracle win the election we stand to suffer from several economic risk factors. These include reduced foreign investments from international businesses and countries. Reduction in foreign direct investments something that is critical in our booming and vital oil and gas economy. Guyana can lose critical access to international financial markets which will restrict and limit trade with many major economic partners. It will also downgrade our creditworthiness and increase our borrowing costs. These punitive economic measures can in-
Azruddin Mohamed’s original sin
Dear Editor,
In his video declaration on Facebook announcing his run for the presidency, Azruddin Mohamed made a vain attempt to be above politics, above the fray, so to speak. He did this by equating Cheddi Jagan with Forbes Burnham, stating that they did everything to uplift the people and help fulfil their dream.
The truth though, as every Guyanese knows, is that LFS Burnham and the PNC did everything to destroy dreams. Under Burnham and PNC leadership, elections were rigged,
the economy was driven into the ground, the state, assisted by party hooligans targeted political opponents, many of whom were beaten up, and others killed. What dreams did Burnham and the PNC foster and bring to reality Azruddin? Name them.
Azruddin Mohamed has begun his campaign with an Original Sin by lying about the record of Burnham and the PNC. That is unforgivable, and that is why his campaign will implode in ignominy.
Sincerely Dr Randy Persaud
advertently expose us to restricted access to the SWIFT banking system, asset freezes, trade limitations among others. Guyana too stands to enter into a state of investment difficulties and economic stagnation leading to the decline in public investments in areas such as healthcare, education, and social welfare programmes.
Allowing a sanctioned individual to contest and run for the highest office could and in my view, ‘will’ undermine the electoral integrity and legitimacy. These acts create and set out dangerous precedents. One such is that serious international violations are not capable of disqualifying those criminal entities from ruling over a country, this precedent has the dire potential of weaking Guyana’s governance standards. It can also further increase political polarisation and instability in our society. With this comes strong abuse of power by those individuals to shield themselves against further sanctions or prosecution (A key point to note) as the laws allows them presidential immunity. In order to protect themselves, family, businesses and whatever personal interests they have, Guyana’s judicial independ-
ence, media/press freedom and anti-corruption agencies can be snatched away. This could transition Guyana into a kleptocracy or an authoritative style of governance.
In relation to our security stability and risks on Guyana stands to face severe consequences. Sanctioned individuals are known to be involved in illicit networks, whether it be for financial purposes or other. Due to this, there is a likelihood for Guyana to become a hub for illegal financial activity, drug trafficking, organised crimes, etc. This can cause Guyana to become blacklisted and face strong condemnation from its South American and Caribbean neighbours. This isolation will eventually put a further strain on our diplomatic alliances especially with CARICOM, US, EU, OAS, etc which will weaken our negotiating position and our access to international aid (critical in the Venezuela border dispute). Our foreign relations without a doubt would be in a tragic state of disarray.
In concluding, the candidacy of a sanctioned individual or entity in Guyana’s upcoming General & Regional Elections would be profoundly destabilising. Guyana is currently on a record-break-
ing trajectory of development, responsible governance and democratic practices. However, it stands to lose all of this if we allow any and all politically ambitious, ethically compromised person(s) to hijack our institutions for personal or criminal gain. This matter at hand is not about one candidate, it is about set-
ting national standards for Guyana to ultimately uphold the rule of law, transparency and protect our democratic foundations. The dangers of electing a sanctioned individual cannot be overstated, nor must they be ignored.
Sincerely, Shivesh Persaud
SATURDAY, MAY 31, 2025
Page Foundation
“Delusional PR stunt” – Jagdeo calls
Azruddin Mohamed’s
presidential ambition
…describes family’s
saintly social media façade as “fake piety, real vile conduct”
Vice President (VP)
Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has categorically dismissed the political relevance of United States (US) sanctioned Azruddin Mohamed, stating bluntly that the embattled businessman will have “no impact” on the 2025 elections.
In a critique during his weekly press conference, Jagdeo shredded the credibility of Mohamed’s presidential aspirations, describing his campaign as a concoction of fake social media hype, public relation stunts, and “delusion.”
Mohamed’s father, Nazar “Shell” Mohamed lashed out at social media personality ‘Guyanese Critic’ with “expletive-laden, vile comments” while threatening him physical violence outside of court when asked tough questions about their legal troubles. The VP challenged press freedom organisations like the Guyana Press Association (GPA) to respond with the same intensity they would if a Government official behaved similarly.
survey data.
“They claim to have surveyed 80,000 Guyanese and said 60 per cent would vote for him. That is insanity. Even in the US, major polls sample less than that. It’s all fake. They’re duping themselves,” he said, accusing some in Mohamed’s orbit of fabricating numbers to extract money from the businessman.
“He promised integrity,” Jagdeo said sarcastically, “but you decide if you can associate the word ‘integrity’ with the Mohameds.”
“Fake piety, real vile conduct” Jagdeo was particular-
The VP’s remarks came in response to recent developments, including ongoing criminal charges against Azruddin Mohamed for submitting fake invoices to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the man’s public declaration that he intends to run for President.
ly critical of the Mohamed family’s attempts to portray themselves as victims and religious martyrs, claiming that their social media displays of godliness contrast starkly with their real-world behaviour.
He referenced a recent incident in which a Azruddin
“In curated environments, people can wear a suit and tie and portray themselves as saints. But under pressure, their true nature comes out,” he remarked.
According to Jagdeo, the Mohameds’ campaign is built on an illusion of popularity fueled by “trolls,” locked social media profiles, and fake
He warned Guyanese not to be deceived by manufactured hype, stating that the so-called “Team Mohamed” is “a creation of PR, not people.” US sanctions, GRA charges not political
“Did we tell the US ambassador to say they have a ‘mountain load’ of evidence? Did we tell OFAC (Office of Foreign Assets Control) to sanction him?” he asked rhetorically. “No, we didn’t smuggle the gold.” He also referenced the GRA’s charges involving the submission of fake invoices and tax underreporting related to high-end vehicles, including a Lamborghini Mohamed showcased online. Jagdeo criticised Mohamed for attempting to justify tax evasion, contrasting his actions with the scale of national development efforts.
“$11 billion in unpaid taxes could fund the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant for every child in Guyana for a year,” Jagdeo emphasised.
Further, Jagdeo firmly rejected claims that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) is behind Mohamed’s legal woes, particularly the high-profile sanctions imposed by the US Government on the Mohameds for gold smuggling.
Norton promises to tackle race relations if re-elected, but refuses to condemn allies’ racist remarks
The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) has identified race relations as one of its na-
tional priorities, should it be re-elected to Government. This commitment comes despite the current leader-
ship’s failure to condemn or act against racist remarks made by some of its political allies.
Govt to co-invest with farmers...
“This investment is not only important because it will help you with drainage and irrigation but this investment is important because it would open up more than 56,000 acres of new land – new land to go into agriculture production, new land to be allocated, and that is what we want to do,” President Ali told the Region Five farmers during Friday’s public meeting.
In fact, he noted that Government will be engaging farmers so that together, they can come up with a mechanism on not only the allocation of these new lands but how to divide
the 56,000 acres into specific agricultural activities such as farming, livestock rearing and pasture lands. These factors, he added, would be key in building out the necessary infrastructure to support what is planned out.
“So, in the sheep production, we’re moving to stage where we’re not going to identify 10 farmers or 12 farmers. We want to identify all the farmers in sheep production and work with each of you directly. Transferring [assets] directly to you in the coming months. And the same thing for swine production, the same thing for those
who want to go into eggs, and then we have the black giants programme.”
So, in livestock, we have tremendous opportunities and a plan that will enable every single farmer to benefit directly,” the Guyanese Leader posited.
According to President Ali, these are all part of a wider effort by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government to build an agriculture sector that is dynamic, resilient, sustainable and one that gives the people of Region Five, especially farmers, the best prospect of profitability and of being successful in their ventures.
“Improving race relations depends on establishing mutual respect and shared understandings among the races. We in the PNCR/APNU (People’s National Congress Reform/A Partnership for National Unity) have identified race relations as one of our national priorities,” the party stated on its website, where it outlines several other promises to voters ahead of the 1 September elections.
However, its promise appears hypocritical as the leader of the PNC, Aubrey Norton has refused to previously condemn the racist remarks of its coalition partners.
In March 2023 for example, Working People’s Alliance (WPA) member Tacuma Ogunseye was widely criticised for stating that the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) used the law enforcement bodies to “execute” Africans and encouraged his ethnic group, especially those who are members of the Joint Services, to be “battle ready” for a “fight.”
While Ogunseye was strongly condemned by a wide cross-section of society over his inflammatory statements, Norton refused to speak up.
Norton instead described the utterances from the WPA member as just “poor choice of words” and noted that Ogunseye’s right to free speech must be respected.
The WPA member was later charged with attempt-
ing to incite racial ill will and placed on $100,000 bail.
Similarly, in February 2025, WPA member David Hinds during his “Politics 101” programme, hurled a series of insults at AfroGuyanese, calling them “lick bottoms,” “house slaves,” and “sell outs”, among others.
Again, Norton had refused to condemn the remarks, saying “I have no say or control over what Mr Hinds says.”
The PNC-lead APNU has indicated it will partner with the WPA to contest the upcoming elections.
President Dr Irfaan Ali addressing residents and farmers in Region Five on Friday
From left: Opposition Leader, Aubrey Norton; WPA member David Hinds, WPA member Tacuma Ogunseye
Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo
2020 Elections fraud case “I took the opportunity to serve” – Parag during cross-examination
Local Government and Regional Development Minister Sonia Parag has reaffirmed that her leap from private legal practice into the political arena was anchored in a desire to contribute to national service, not personal gain. Her testimony was delivered on Friday during a session of the high-profile electoral fraud case currently being heard before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.
Parag, who had offered pro bono legal aid to the then Opposition People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) beginning in May 2019, took the witness stand as part of the ongoing trial involving several former electoral and Government officials accused of at-
tempting to distort the outcome of Guyana’s March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections.
Under pointed cross-examination by defence counsel Eusi Anderson, Parag was asked whether she had ever benefitted from state contracts or participated in public policy during the tenure of the previous A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Administration, which held office from 2015 to 2020.
She responded assertively, “No sir,” adding that she was never approached nor did she seek employment or involvement in policymaking during that period.
“I was in private practice,” she said plainly, describing her life before politics. When asked if stepping into ministerial office marked
Wan elevation in her professional standing, she replied, “I moved to a different portfolio, and I was given the opportunity to serve the people, which I took.”
She further explained, “I’m working like I always do,” emphasising that her professional dedication and work ethic remained unchanged whether as a legal practitioner or a Government Minister.
Anderson asked if she regarded herself as a “friend” of the former APNU+AFC Administration. Parag simply responded, “I wouldn’t say that.”
Her testimony wrapped up Friday afternoon, with the case scheduled to resume on June 23, 2025.
This trial stems from a series of events following Guyana’s 2020 general elec-
tions, during which multiple officials now face serious charges. Among the accused are prominent People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) member Carol Smith-Joseph and former Health Minister under the previous Government, Volda Lawrence. Also in the dock are ex-Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield, former Deputy CEO Roxanne Myers, and Region Four Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo, all of whom held critical roles in the electoral process.
Former staff of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Denise BabbCummings, and Michelle Miller are also facing charges. The accused, who collectively face 19 charges related to conspiracy to commit fraud, are all out on bail, having denied the allegations.
According to the prosecution’s case, each individual played an instrumental part in an orchestrated effort to inflate votes for the APNU+AFC coalition and suppress votes cast for the PPP/C.
The disputed outcome of the March 2 polls sparked a months-long standoff, triggering a flurry of court actions by political stakeholders. The situation was only resolved after a national recount, overseen by CARICOM, confirmed the PPP/C’s win with 233,336 votes, surpassing APNU+AFC’s 217,920.
In stark contrast, the earlier report submitted by thenCEO Lowenfield claimed victory for the APNU/AFC coalition, citing vote totals of 171,825 for APNU+AFC and 166,343 for the PPP/C, figures that were eventually discredited.
Following the return of the PPP/C to Government in August 2020, criminal proceedings were launched against the implicated individuals. Subsequently, GECOM terminated the employment contracts of Lowenfield, Myers, and Mingo in August 2021 as the allegations of misconduct took center stage.
The consolidated trial continues to attract public attention as it delves into what has been described as one of Guyana’s most consequential electoral controversies.
Still looking…
…for confirmation
The ghoulish saga of Adrianna’s Corpse continues to cynically unfold as the family; relatives and a cynical section of the Opposition pursue their search for official confirmation of their insistence that she’d been murdered rather than drowned. Your Eyewitness feels we need to recapitulate the info to date – since we can compare with the second autopsy the family had arranged by schlepping the poor child’s corpse that had been already cut up and embalmed.
Initially, the family – along with much of Guyana –were quite skeptical that local pathologists might be compromised - and the three foreign pathologists, brought in by the government to conduct the autopsy that would assist in determining the cause of death. One of the three was American, selected by Adrianna’s family. That autopsy found no evidence of any trauma suggesting manhandling - concluded she’d drowned.
Going beyond standard operating procedures with deaths involving suspicion of foul play – here asserted by the family - to alleviate fears of compromise, the police secured the service of a retired, experienced detective from the RCMP to move from cause of death (drowning) to identify the MANNER in which the child drowned and if not accidental, by whom. The family maintained that the child had been taken somewhere out of the pool and been killed in some ritual by the owner of the hotel and his workers and returned to the pool – where it floated up the next day.
The RCMP investigator did what these investigators do – reviewed the evidence from the scene of the crime and the pathology and toxicology reports; conducted interviews with persons of interest – including he family and came to a conclusion. Adrianna had died by accidental drowning since he could find NO evidence of foul play –such as trauma to her body or evidence of drugging.
The Georgia Medical Examiner preliminarily presented her new autopsy and emphasized the first autopsy was done “competently” and her findings were consistent with it. This was even after she dissected and examined some tissues in Adrianna’s throat that had been left intact. Repeating several times, “going by what she had been told” – obviously by the relatives who believe murder had been committed - she introduced a distinction on the term “drowning” that should be of interest to those interested in “justice for Adrianna”. “Drowning”, she said,” is a diagnosis of exclusion and by that it means that you have to exclude other potential causes of death and oftentimes when a body is found in water, the assumption is that the person has drowned. There is nothing at autopsy that is diagnostic of drowning.”
But this is exactly what had been done in Guyana by the RCMP investigator before he pronounced that Adrianna had drowned!
…for affirmation
Your Eyewitness just got a clue as to how low the barbs are gonna be thrown in the upcoming elections campaign. We just received a decision by the High Court on one politician’s claim that being called a “low life” by VP Jagdeo some time ago meant she “was a criminal, disreputable, an African woman of loose morals and disposition, a lowclass African woman not deserving of respect or dignity, conducted her life in a manner that persons disapproved of, was Involved in criminal activities and was deserving of contempt among other things.” Well!!
Jagdeo claimed that all he did was to point out that the said politician was a “low life” because when she was a minister of government, she’d funneled contracts to a company she owned!! The Judge pointed out his was a fact and was widely known, so Jagdeo’s citation couldn’t have possibly lowered her reputation!
And furthermore, the court gotta balance the need to protect free speech!! Let the floodgates of invectives be opened!!
…for meaning
Big, bad Elon Musk – Mr Mega Mouth – who was gonna clean out the Augean Stables of the muck accreted over he 250 years of the American Republic, is gone!! Elon, we hardly knew ye!! Say it ain’t so!
Local Government and Regional Development Minister, Sonia Parag
Some of the individuals facing charges in relation to electoral fraud. Top row: (from left)
Volda Lawrence, Keith Lowenfield, Denise Babb-Cummings, and Michelle Miller. Bottom row: (from left) Enrique Livan, Sheffern February, Clairmont Mingo, and Carol Smith-Joseph
Guyana launches ‘One Health Project’ to boost pandemic preparedness
…adopting new strategies to strengthen emergency response
The Government, through the Health Ministry, on Friday officially launched the Guyana One Health Project at the Aiden Hotel in Georgetown. The launch marked a critical milestone in Guyana’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response capacities.
Funded through a grant from the Pandemic Fund and credit support from the World Bank, the project aims to fortify Guyana’s resilience to health emergencies using a One Health approach: a collaborative, multi-sectoral, and transdisciplinary model that recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
The project development objective is to strengthen Guyana’s capacities to prevent, prepare for, and respond to health emergencies through the One Health approach, and, in the case of an eligible crisis or emergency, respond promptly and effectively.
In his keynote address, Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony underscored the project’s scientific foundation and strategic importance.
“We thought it was important to situate the pro-
posal around things we really needed. If we’re going to implement a successful One Health project, we also need to understand what is going on within the animal population,” the minister stated.
He emphasized that while the project is a worthwhile initiative, the Ministry of Health must improve its understanding of animal health.
“There are many things we don’t yet understand. Domestic animals are one thing, but what is happening with wildlife? What’s going on in that population? It’s quite challenging for us.”
Dr. Anthony noted that these concerns were considered when designing the new project.
He admitted that the Ministry was not entirely satisfied with the existing assessments, especially in terms of ethology.
“We felt the need for independent verification. That’s why we brought in joint external evaluators to determine exactly where we stand with this project. They helped us identify the gaps, and compare those with what we had already done. Bringing all of this together allowed us to formulate a very strong technical proposal. This project has evolved
based on those insights and on our past experiences.”
Lending his perspective on a regional scale, Dr. Anthony added that although CARPHA was involved in some of this work in the Caribbean, its capacity is limited.
“By building more capacity and tracking more pathogens, we will be able to provide support not just for ourselves, but for the rest of the Caribbean. Over time, we envision becoming a reliable reference laboratory for the region. As we expand our capacity, it will become an asset not only for Guyana but for all of CARICOM,” he said.
Dr. Anthony emphasized that the project is rooted in lessons learned from COVID-19 and is designed to address health threats at their source — including those originating from animals.
Also delivering remarks was Dr. Ashni Singh, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service. He highlighted Guyana’s longstanding engagement with international financing institutions.
“We have demonstrated our capacity to absorb and successfully deploy AIDA re-
sources. I also want to publicly acknowledge the United States of America for its continued support for AIDA, recognizing the remarks made by the U.S. Treasury Secretary on the importance of multilateral institutions,” he stated.
The One Health Project aligns with Guyana’s commitment to advancing the International Health Regulations, and aims to improve key public health systems, enhance multi-sectoral coordination, and strengthen veterinary and environmental health capacities. Also present at the event were Permanent Secretary Malcolm Watkins; Chief Medical Officer Dr. Narine Singh; Technical Project Lead Dr. Anand Persaud, and other directors and senior officials.
Distinguished officials present at the event
Adrianna Younge autopsy claims Nursing assistant charged for terrorism released on $350,000 bail
Tianna Serena LewisKing, the 23-year-old nursing assistant accused of inciting acts of terrorism through misleading public statements about the Adrianna Younge post-mortem, has been released on $350,000 bail following an order by the High Court.
Lewis-King, of Better Hope, East Coast Demerara (ECD) made a virtual appearance on Friday before acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, where her case resumed after being adjourned earlier this month. During the session, Magistrate McGusty said that she is aware that Lewis had secured bail in the High Court on Thursday.
Lewis-King formally pleaded not guilty to the charge of inciting acts of terrorism. Her next appearance is scheduled for June 11.
sions during the autopsy which, she implied, were being covered up.
However, investigators quickly disproved the claims. The Guyana Police Force (GPF), which launched a full investigation and issued a wanted bulletin for Lewis-King shortly after the voice note went viral, confirmed that her statements were entirely false.
Police spoke with several individuals named in her recording, including Dr Frank Anthony, the Younge family’s doctor, Dr Caleb McCloggan, and Attorney Darren Wade. All
confirmed that Lewis-King was not present at the autopsy, and Dr Anthony publicly stated that he had never met or communicated with her. The GPHC also confirmed that although Lewis-King was employed as a nursing assistant, she was not involved in the PME and lacked the qualifications to speak on it.
Dr McCloggan also identified Lewis-King’s voice as the one in the recording and stated that no such nursing assistant participated or was consulted in the presence of the three qualified international pathologists who con-
ducted the PME. Attorney Wade, who attended the PME on behalf of the family, also confirmed she was not there. As a result, Lewis-King is now facing charges under anti-terrorism laws for allegedly attempting to incite public distrust, interfere with the justice process, and cause national unease by spreading deliberate misinformation. Her arrest came after she turned herself in at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), accompanied by a lawyer from the firm Hughes, Fields & Stoby.
Previously, during her initial appearance earlier on May 9, the prosecutor had strongly objected to bail on the grounds of public safety, and Magistrate McGusty had ordered her remanded to prison. However, her legal team pursued a bail application at the High Court, which was granted prior to her return to the Magistrate’s court.
The charge against Lewis-King stems from a voice note that circulated widely on social media, in which she claimed to have attended the April 28 post-mortem examination (PME) of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge at the
Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). The girl’s body had been discovered in a swimming pool at the Double Day Hotel in Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo (EBE) on April 24, a day after she was reported missing.
In the audio recording, Lewis-King alleged she was present at the PME and had been sent there by Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony. She further claimed to have observed certain actions and discus-
Miner jailed for 10 years for setting friend on fire
AGeorgetown man who set his friend on fire during a heated morning confrontation at a mining camp was sentenced to 10 years in prison this week, bringing closure to a case that left one man dead and a young woman badly burned.
Christian Joseph, better known as ‘Son Son’, was before Justice Navindra Singh at the Essequibo High Court, where he admitted to unlawfully killing 22-year-old Sheldon Harry, called ‘Black Boy’, and also to grievously injuring Harry’s girlfriend, Greisi Andrade.
The judge gave him 10 years for killing Harry and another two years for hurting Andrade. However, since the sentences will run at the same time, Joseph will only serve 10 years. Time already spent in custody will be taken off his sentence.
Joseph, 23, had originally been charged with murder but ended up pleading guilty to manslaughter, a lesser offence. He also accepted responsibility for the injuries to Andrade, who was caught up
in the terrifying ordeal.
The incident happened on June 5, 2022, in the interior at a mining site where Joseph and Harry worked on different gold dredges. The court heard that things went downhill after Joseph and his girlfriend, Miriangil, got into a loud argument early that morning. The shouting was so intense that Miriangil started to pack her things and reached out to Andrade for help.
She and Andrade ended up at Harry’s camp, but the situation escalated when Joseph showed up with a cutlass and started threatening Harry. After failing to convince Miriangil to go back with him, he stormed off, only to return minutes later armed with a bucket of gasoline and a piece of wood.
Realising something was wrong, Harry and Andrade tried to run, but Joseph chased them down, soaked them in gasoline, and set them both on fire.
In an effort to save her partner, Andrade managed to drag Harry to a nearby river to try and put out the flames.
Others rushed over to help, and Harry was rushed first to the Bartica Regional Hospital, then later to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC), however, he died shortly after. The post-mortem confirmed that he had suffered bronchopneumonia caused by septic burns that covered more than half of his body, between 50 and 55 per cent. Parts of the attack were also caught on Andrade’s cellphone, which helped build the case against Joseph.
When he was picked up by police, Joseph claimed he did not mean to hurt anyone. “It was not my intention, I was just bluffing and the fire light,” he reportedly told investigators, adding that Harry had bumped into him and caused the gas to spill.
However, the court did not believe his story with Justice Singh saying that the act was deliberate, not accidental, and sentenced Joseph accordingly. Joseph was represented by Attorney Bernard Da Silva. Prosecutor Caressa Henry appeared on behalf of the State.
Dead: Sheldon Harry
Jailed: Christian Joseph
Tianna Serena Lewis-King
– Guyana’s first Internet Exchange Point – launched
For the first time in history, Guyana has launched its own Internet Exchange Point (IXP), a major step toward digital independence.
Known as GYIXP, this initiative enables local Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to interconnect within the country, improving connectivity and reducing reliance on international routing.
This networking facility allows local ISPs to connect directly, facilitating access to local online content without the need to route traffic internationally.
Guyana’s digital independence.
“The establishment of GYIXP will also increase our digital independence, which is particularly appropriate given that we have just celebrated Guyana’s 59th Independence Anniversary. We will no longer be solely reliant on expensive inter-
At the launch event, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips emphasized that the GYIXP will enhance the stability and independence of Guyana’s internet infrastructure.
the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly the goal to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation as the foundation of successful and prosperous societies.
“The years ahead prom-
“...if you were making a call across one network to another network, that call had to be routed to Miami. For example, if you’re making a call from One Communication to a phone on Digicel or E-Net, it had to be routed over the internet: to Miami and then back to Guyana. But now, the routing is done inside Guyana.”
He mentioned that his office has prioritized digital skills development, partnering with international agencies and businesses to ensure that Guyanese are equipped to use and benefit from these ICT initiatives.
“We now have more than 60 online government services, and our ICT service sector continues to grow, with new businesses, such as V-Charge Services Guyana, being established almost daily. Today marks another key milestone in our nation’s digital transformation trajectory.”
He added that this is a momentous occasion, noting that while more than 1,500 IXPs are active globally, fewer than 120 are located in Latin America and the Caribbean. Above all, he said, it will enhance
national links during our day-to-day operations. We will also have the ability to preserve access to local
ise to be just as productive and transformative. We will modernize education by embedding STEM, AI, and dig-
services and businesses in the event of a break in the submarine cables servicing Guyana.
Finally, on the international stage, the launch of Guyana’s first IXP reinforces our commitment to honoring our regional and international commitments. This IXP directly aligns not only with Guyana’s, but also CARICOM’s digital agenda.”
He also referenced
ital skills in classrooms, increasing scholarships, and growing a digital Guyana.”
In detailing the benefits of this development, the Prime Minister highlighted how it will contribute to the education sector.
“Ninety percent of our nursery, primary, secondary, tertiary, and technical vocational education institutions have internet access, with the remainder to be connected definitely be-
fore the 4th of September.
I think the guys are telling me year-end, but they have to connect it before the 4th of September. ICT services and connectivity are also being provided to over 370 government institutions— including hospitals, health centres, police stations, and fire stations.”
Guyana’s first Internet Exchange Point members include E Networks, One Communication Guyana, and the National Data Management Authority (NDMA).
A management committee will govern the GYIXP, and will be responsible for setting up strategies, overseeing administration, and protecting the interests of the peers, hosts, and members of the IXP.
This is a non-profit undertaking years in the making, with the Office of the Prime Minister working tirelessly to make it a reality. The University of Guyana has provided the necessary accommodations,
and dedicated bandwidth is being provided free of charge by the NDMA. This is a significant accomplishment made possible by the Office of the Prime Minister, the University of Guyana, the NDMA, E Networks, and One Communications. This IXP has the potential to transform Guyana’s digital landscape by promoting meaningful connectivity and increasing the nation’s digital independence and resilience.
Prime Minister Mark Phillips and Darryl Akeung, national ICT Advisor within the Office of the Prime Minister, with other key members at the launch
GWI leading Caribbean’s water security efforts – Croal
Guyana’s sole water utility company, the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), through its strategic leadership, has been recognized as one of the key agencies spearheading the Caribbean region’s water security efforts.
On Thursday, GWI hosted its 23rd awards ceremony at the Royal International Hotel, Georgetown.
The annual event brings together company leaders from across several administrative regions, and highlights the commendable work they have done for the organization over the years.
Delivering the feature address at the ceremony was Housing and Water
Croal, more than 97% of Guyana’s urban population, and more than 91% of communities to date enjoy access to potable water, providing first-time access to potable water to over 40,000 residents nationwide.
On this point the minis-
Minister, Collin Croal, who spoke about GWI’s participation in several key water security forums and engagements within the Caribbean region.
Minister Croal boasted that GWI did not only attend these events but has also solidified itself as one of the main contributing agencies towards the region’s water
ter informed that with the construction of several water treatment plants across the country and several other initiatives, the dream of achieving full water coverage will soon become a reality.
“We are steadily advancing towards full national coverage. To further strengthen water manage-
““This therefore brings a total investment to about $70 billion over a five-year period; an unprecedented allocation aimed at delivering equitable access to clean, affordable water for all Guyanese.”
Meanwhile also speaking at the event was GWI’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shaik Baksh who spoke about the importance of excellent customer service as the organization continuities to expand.
“So, billions and billions of dollars, never before in the history of this country, has been put into the water sector to deliver quality water to the people of our country. And I must add that what is required – and this is a work in progress – what is required is dedication by the employees. You have a role to play in all of this.”
“We have many employees doing a great job, but still, we need to have more out of you if we are to continue serving the population with quality water; with a high level of service, so quality is the buzzword, and this can only happen if you, in your interaction with the customers out there, pay special attention to your tasks in ensuring that you treat the customers with
security agenda.
“It also gave voice to a shared regional vision; one where the Caribbean nations lead boldly in water policy, water technology, and the protection of this most precious resource, and it was GWI that stood out at the centre of those conversations – not as a passive observer but as an active, respected leader in the Caribbean. We must now, therefore, carry that momentum forward.”
Moreover, according to
ment, more than 87,000 meters have been installed to date, increasing meter coverage to 76% at the end of 2024. Treated water coverage moved from 52% to close to 70% at the end of 2024. And by the end of this year, we will be very close to 90% – and at the same time, water losses reduced from 69% in 2020 to 63% at the end of 2024, with a further reduction of non-revenue water to at least 60% in this year.”
The minister added,
courtesy, that we deal with the complaints coming forward.”
The 2025 budget earmarked $23.1 billion for advancements in the water sector, with a particular focus on increasing access to clean and safe water. This includes $2.2 billion for new water supply systems in hinterland communities. The government also plans to invest $15 billion to expand drainage and irrigation projects.
Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal
GWI Chief Executive Officer Shaik Baksh
President Dr Irfaan Ali along with several Government ministers during an engagement with rice and cash crop farmers, fishermen, and sugar workers in East Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne)
Manifesto promised fulfilled Housing Ministry reaches 50,000 house lots distribution
…‘We are extremely proud of that record and it's what we promised to do and we have done it’ – Min. Rodrigues
The Housing Ministry on Friday surpassed 50,000 house lots distributed since the People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government returned to office in 2020.
we have made available over the next two days: today [Friday] and tomorrow [Saturday], 1,800 house lots to be allocated here in Region Six.”
By Friday afternoon, the
In its manifesto, the party had promised 50,000 house lots during its first five years in office.
Addressing would-be homeowners at a ‘Dream Realised’ house lot distribution in New Amsterdam, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) earlier on Friday, Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, had said that the Ministry had not yet met its target of 50,000 house lots.
“Through the Ministry of Housing, we have been able to allocate 48,661 house lots over the last five years, and
been surpassed. The exercise will continue today.
Minister Rodrigues noted that most of the homeowners were between the ages of 21 and 35 years.
“Guyana has a young population, giving our young population a longer time to acquire wealth over a period of their lifetime, and giving them that responsibility early of home ownership and property ownership,” she said.
Meanwhile, as it relates to Region Six, before Friday, allocated house lots had just surpassed 3,550.
“You know that you can rely on us, you know that you can trust us to ensure that the progress continues. In Region Six alone, we have distributed 3,555 lots, but we still have a small backlog in the region because every day, people are coming to us. People have seen the delivery in the
50,000 house lots target had
housing sector, and young
people are coming to us every day as soon as they attain the age of 21 years old, they are coming to us and submitting their applications. So all of the time, the demand keeps increasing, so we have to make more lands available.” Minister Rodrigues pointed out.
Speaking at the same event on Friday, Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, explained that there is a competing interest for land, with the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) putting in a big claim to facilitate its resuscitation and expansion objectives.
“You have the cattle farmers who are in a dilemma too, because they want land for themselves, and then we keep moving them. So, you have the encroachment now in terms of the farmland, whether it is for rice, it is encroaching obviously where the cattle farmers are, and we have to keep shifting the cattle farmers inwards. And then again, on government side you have competing interests for land for housing development. So the dynamics therefore means that you must not take [it] lightly when I say that your government is committed and is delivering,” he pointed out.
The Minister noted too that the house lots are heavily subsidized. He pointed out that there is a capacity challenge, because the contractors are unable
to keep up with the rate of implementation for the infrastructure work that is
Glasgow Housing Scheme, use up 637 acres of
required to ensure that land becomes ready for distribution as quickly as possible.
In Region Six, the 1,800 house lots were distributed at the New Overwinning Housing Scheme, and together with the New
egorized as low, moderate, middle or high income. There will be two entrances to those two schemes, which are located about two miles away from central New Amsterdam.
GWI to receive major infrastructure facelift in coming months – CEO …new Georgetown corporate office to ease congestion
As the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) continues to ensure all Guyanese have access to potable water, the organization in the coming months will see several new buildings being constructed, which will significantly bolster its capabilities.
The improvement of the organization’s infrastructure was revealed by GWI Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shaik Baksh on Thursday, during its 23rd annual awards ceremony at the Royal International Hotel, Georgetown.
As the organization pushes to ensure all Guyanese, regardless of their geographic location, have access to treated potable water, Baksh highlighted that over the years GWI has managed to significantly build its workforce, with the organization now having more than 1,000 employees across various departments.
“We now have over 1,100 employees because of the expansion. We are probably going to [have] 1,200 employees. New plants, upgrading of facilities, and so on, have necessitated the employment of more persons of all categories,” he disclosed.
With the workforce projected to grow significantly, Baksh stressed the importance of workers being situated in a comfortable work environment. As such, he noted that the issue of overcrowding at the current head office in Georgetown will soon be an issue of the past.
“We are placing special emphasis on the environment and the building; the space which you occupy, making your lives comfortable in the work situation. And this year –shortly I would say – another three, four months – we will have more space here in Georgetown in par-
ticular, whereby we have a new corporate headquarters, which will free up the Shelter Belt location, to provide more space. It's cramped now, I know. I recognize that; we recognize that so that you can have more space to ensure your increased productivity. Because if you're cramped, you may not be able to produce as you would want to,” he remarked.
The GWI is establishing a new headquarters edifice as part of a larger complex for the Ministry of Housing and Water. This complex will be located in Houston, East Bank Demerara, along the Mandela to Eccles Highway. The new GWI headquarters will be a four-story building, with a cost of $562 million.
Moreover, the CEO also hinted at the construction of a new GWI office that will service one of the busiest corridors in Guyana: located at Lusignan, the new
facility will provide GWI workers working on the coast with a more modern office space.
“Additionally, we intend to look at putting up a new building. We're renting a building for East Coast of Demerara. We already have all the plans, and we want to go to Tender shortly to put a new building for
the East Coast; that is at Lusignan, and work should start, I would say, within a matter of a few months on that new building.”
Apart from the construction of these new buildings, the CEO revealed that the organization will also be upgrading and rehabilitating its facilities across the country.
“And we have rehabilitated a lot of our existing buildings, given more space, air conditioning, better furniture, computers and all of these things, and we will continue doing that. We'll intensify that in year 2025, I assure you of that.”
With improved infrastructure and working conditions for workers, GWI aims to provide Guyanese citizens with excellent service daily.
The 2025 budget for GWI is $24 billion, a significant increase from the previous year. This budget is allocated to address critical areas like infrastructure improvements, operations, and expanding water service access to previously unserved communities. The increased allocation aims to enhance water infrastructure, improve water quality, and expand access to clean water for all residents.
New GWI headquarters currently under construction
land. The land there was cat-
Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, at the distribution drive
Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues congratulates a would-be homeowner
The 1,800 house lots were distributed at the New Overwinning Housing Scheme
Guyana activates pilot plan for dealing with African swine fever, with support from US & IICA
Guyana has launched a national surveillance plan and diagnostic sampling scheme for the early detection of African swine fever (ASF), a disease that affects wild and domestic pigs, and threatens both food security and producers’ livelihoods.
The initiative is part of the project “Surveillance and Response for the Prevention of African Swine Fever (ASF) in the Americas”, spearheaded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA).
The launch took place during a three-day pilot program, which included farm visits, group work sessions, training activities, veterinary laboratory visits, and demonstrations of sample packaging procedures.
In addition to USDA and IICA, USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA), local producers, and the Caribbean Agricultural Health and Food Safety Agency (CAHFSA) were actively involved in the development of the pilot program.
The surveillance plan developed in Guyana includes a comprehensive strategy focused on five key areas: improved biosecurity, nationwide surveillance, stakeholder engagement, outbreak preparedness, and financial support for affected producers.
Although ASF does not pose a risk to human health, it is devastating to domestic and wild pig populations. Outbreaks can severely impact national economies and food security. The
10th
urgency increased with the reappearance of the disease in the Caribbean in 2021, after a 40-year absence, with cases reported in the Dominican Republic and Haiti.
Muhammad Ibrahim, IICA Director of Technical Cooperation, explained that the inter-American organization has adopted a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to national animal health capacity building, prioritizing epidemiological surveillance, biosecurity, and early response to transboundary diseases.
“Effective ASF prevention calls for robust institutional architecture and health governance aligned with international standards. At IICA, we promote the implementation of sustainable strategies tailored to each context to ensure that countries have the tools to protect their food security”, he added.
GLDA Executive Director, Dwight Walrond, pointed out that the initiative will serve as a model for animal disease management in Guyana and the rest of the Caribbean.
“The surveillance plan includes measures such as the strengthening of biosecurity on farms, improvements to control points, enhanced surveillance at ports of entry, increased laboratory diagnostic capacity, and the implementation of education and training campaigns for industry stakeholders”, he added.
Eric Coleman, USDA’s Director of Emergency Programs, observed that preventing ASF requires constant surveillance, technical collaboration, and a rapid response, so the pilot program in Guyana is a decisive step toward a more prepared and resilient Caribbean.
“At USDA, we recognize that animal health is key to
tive, led by USDA and IICA, designed to boost local and regional capacities for addressing health threats like ASF”, Coleman said.
US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, emphasized that: “Preventing ASF is critical to the survival and growth of the pork industry. This initiative, funded by USDA and implemented by IICA, goes beyond Guyana and seeks to improve surveillance, diagnosis, biosecurity, and emergency preparedness in the Caribbean, Central America, and the Andean region, under a comprehensive One Health approach”.
As part of the program in Guyana, the joint IICAUSDA delegation met with Guyana’s Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, to discuss the results of the technical work
that took place in the country.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening veterinary and surveillance systems, and highlighted the progress made with the construction of a modular pig slaughter and processing plant, as part of efforts to modernize the national pork industry.
Mustapha emphasized that implementation of the pilot plan is a firm step toward modernizing the country’s animal health system.
“This program not only strengthens our technical capabilities, but also positions Guyana as a regional leader in swine health surveillance. We are committed to protecting our industry, guaranteeing food safety, and ensuring the continuity of agricultural trade in
development. Therefore, we strongly support this initia-
sessions on ASF surveillance and response efforts
said.
National Clean-up Exercise set for June 7
...as Govt makes nationwide push for cleaner, greener Guyana
Guyana is set to take another major step towards environmental sustainability with the 10th National Cleanup Exercise, scheduled for Saturday, June 7, 2025.
The flagship initiative will mobilise communities across all ten administrative regions in a nationwide push for a cleaner, greener country.
According to a Department of Public Information (DPI) report, the exercise, spearheaded by the National Enhancement Committee, will tackle the removal of garbage, derelict vehicles, and scrap metal from communities nationwide. In Georgetown, the effort will also focus on upgrading roads to improve safety and urban aesthetics.
Deodat Indar, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, and Chair of the National Enhancement Committee, led a high-level
planning session on Friday to coordinate mobilisation and operational strategies.
The meeting brought together stakeholders, including Georgetown Mayor and City Councillors Steven Jacobs, Don Singh and Alfonso De Armas; Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry
President Kathy Smith, Solid Waste Director Walter Narine, as well as representatives from the Ministry
of Public Works, Protected Areas Commission, Guyana Police Force, Guyana Defence Force, Guyana Fire Service, and other agencies.
Minister Indar is calling on all citizens, businesses, civil society groups, religious organisations, and non-governmental organisations to participate in this vital national effort.
“We see the need for this clean up at this time because we did a detailed as-
sessment of the city… and other parts of the country,” Minister Indar stated.
He emphasized that the active participation of every citizen is essential to achieving a healthier and more sustainable environment.
Each individual is encouraged to take responsibility for cleaning their immediate surroundings.
“This has always been something good for Guyana where our country looks clean to those who live and
work here, and those visiting as well,” the minister added.
To ensure the success of the exercise, Minister Indar conducted inspections in Georgetown. These and other priority areas nationwide will be targeted for a comprehensive clean-up in the lead-up to June 7.
The Government of Guyana continues to place environmental sustainability at the forefront of its national agenda. The administration urges the public to support this initiative, recognising that a clean environment is not only a matter of public health and pride but also a key driver of tourism, investment and national unity. The 10th National Cleanup Exercise is part of a broader, ongoing commitment to beautification, public health, and responsible stewardship of Guyana’s natural resources.
food security and economic
the Caribbean”, the minister
Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha with representatives of USDA, IICA, USDA’s FAS, GLDA, local producers, and CAHFSA, who took part in the development of the pilot program. (IICA photos)
The joint IICA-USDA delegation met with Guyana’s Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha to discuss the results of the technical work sessions on ASF surveillance and response efforts held in the country
President Irfaan Ali at the Houston and Mandela junction during the 9th National Clean-up Exercise, last year
Members of the National Enhancement Committee
GOAL graduation for June 9-10; some 2,000 to be awarded certificates, diplomas, degrees
– further 9,179 persons awarded scholarships in 2025
Dr Ashni Singh, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, on Friday announced that almost 2,000 Guyanese are slated to graduate from Government’s Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) during the programme’s 3rd graduation ceremony set for June 9 and 10, 2025 at the National Cultural Centre.
A further 9,179 Guyanese have been awarded scholarships for this year, bringing the total number of persons being granted scholarships since the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) took office to 39,000; nearly doubling the 20,000 scholarships the Government had promised to grant to Guyanese in its 2020 Manifesto.
“The Guyana Online Academy of Learning as it has come to be known popularly, is a flagship initiative of this People’s Progressive Party Civic Government. It was initiated by President Ali, in the first instance, in our manifesto as we prepared for the 2020 elections, and it aims to provide educational opportunities to those who wish to upgrade their
qualifications, including by obtaining post-graduate qualifications as well as to give opportunities to those who might otherwise had not have access to post-secondary education,” Minister Singh emphasised.
“What we are witnessing today as we prepare to graduate 2,000 persons and to award a further 9,000 persons with new scholarships is exciting testimony to two things. One, testimony to the Government’s delivery of a commitment that we made, and as we started, or even before we started the current term of office, the GOAL scholarship programme has demonstrated the delivery of yet another one of our commitments. But in addition to that, the award of these new scholarships also represents at an individual and personal level, a triumph for those who would have undertak-
en and completed an academic program,” Dr Singh said.
During the Friday announcement, Dr Singh, while congratulating the 9,179 persons awarded scholarships this year, said the list of awardees will be published in the national newspapers on Sunday, and they will be notified via email throughout the course of the new week. The batch of persons graduating under GOAL this year hail from all regions countrywide who have completed programmes from a number of international universities in various disciplines.
Dr Singh pointed out that the 9,179 scholarships granted this year range from certificates to PHD, and will be offered through 22 internationally accredited partners including University of East London (UK in partnership with UNICAF), Jain ‘deemed
Robbery suspect who shot at Police arrested; ammo, cannabis found in car
A29-year-old man from Quamina Road, Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara (ECD) who shot at a Police rank in his bid to escape, was arrested after the brief altercation, while a search of his car led to the discovery of ammunition and suspected cannabis.
At about 10:15h at Farm, East Bank Demerara (EBD) on Friday, police say the suspect reportedly robbed a Venezuelan national, Ronaldo (only name given) of an undisclosed sum of cash at gunpoint.
The suspect was at the time driving a motorcar (PAG 5216) and was armed with a handgun.
Preliminary inquiries revealed that a Police constable, who was on motorcycle patrol, was stopped by the Venezuelan national who reported that he was robbed, and pointed out the motorcar that the suspect was driving.
The vehicle, which was heading south on Farm/ Herstelling access road,
was chased after by the rank, and upon seeing the police, the suspect attempted to drive away but collided with a canter and another car, resulting in his vehicle coming to a stop.
According to the police, the suspect, before exiting the vehicle, pulled out a handgun and discharged a round in the rank’s direction. He then began run-
ning south on the Farm/ Herstelling access road.
The rank gave chase after the suspect, who discharged two more rounds in his direction; the rank returned fire, resulting in the suspect receiving injuries to both his left and right feet. The suspect was then apprehended and taken to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where he received treatment.
A search of the suspect’s car revealed 15 live 9mm rounds of ammunition, one 9mm spent shell, along with a quantity of $20s & $100-dollar Guyana currency notes. Three bags containing leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis, and a bag containing clothing were also found in the vehicle. The suspected narcotic was weighed and amounted to three grams. The man, who is also suspected of breaking into a home at the Young Professional Housing Scheme on May 29, remains in police custody, as investigations continue.
to be’ University in India, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES), Amity University and University of Suffolk (UK in partnership with UNICAF).
This year’s 3rd graduation ceremony, being held under the theme “Enhancing the Nation’s Human Capacity” is in keeping with the Government of Guyana’s development vision. It also holds special significance as it coincides with the fifth anniversary of GOAL since it was launched by Government to transform access to tertiary education for thousands of Guyanese in every region across the country.
Effective January this year (2025), Government has made access to education at the University of Guyana (UG) free of cost. In his 2025 Budget presentation Dr Singh noted that UG will be tuition free from January 2025 and that it would benefit in excess of 11,000 current students and all new students.
“This will relieve students of having to bear the cost of university education at UG, whether by way of cash or student loan. In 2025, reflecting the abolition of tuition fees, $13.4
billion is allocated to finance UG’s operations,” the Minister had emphasised.
Government also last year launched its student write-off programme in keeping with its 2020 manifesto promise. “In keeping with our Manifesto commitments regarding making university education more accessible and affordable, we have begun Phase I of the debt write-off process for persons with outstanding University of Guyana student loans. To date, $2.5 billion in loans were written off for over 3,700 persons, and we continue to urge persons to apply for their loan write off so they can be relieved of this historic obligation, “Dr Singh had said.
Meanwhile, adding further to its provision of easier access to education and
relieving citizens of the cost attached, Government went a step further this year when President Ali announced in April last that the Government of Guyana will fund the examination fees for the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) and Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE) for at least eight subjects for each student.
The Head of State made the announcement during a public meeting in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara). The initiative is slated to benefit every single child in public and private schools and will add to the initiative Government already implemented since its return to office in 2020 of annual cash grants to every school child.
Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh
The suspect who allegedly robbed a Venezuelan national
Family of student killed in minibus accident disputes driver’s account
...asks for thorough Police investigation
The family of 17-year-old Yujraj Ram, the Anna Regina Multilateral School student who tragically lost his life after being hit by a minibus, believes there are inconsistencies in the minibus driver’s story, and alleges that witnesses have provided a different account of what took place, leading to their request for a thorough investigation into the accident.
The fatal accident occurred earlier this week along the Dartmouth Public Road, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam).
He pointed out that about 15 to 20 feet away—at the side of the road—there were broken pieces of the minibus’s light and other parts, which he believes indicate the true point of impact.
Measurements were taken, but the driver continued to insist that the collision occurred at the original spot he identified.
Speaking with Guyana Times, the teen’s uncle, Danraj Ram, said that during the visit to the scene, the minibus driver showed the police a specific spot in the road where he claimed the impact occurred.
However, Ram claimed that there was no visible evidence at that location to support the driver’s version.
Doodnauth Ram, the father of Yujraj, has also questioned the driver’s version of events.
He said that if his son had been hit in the middle of the road, as claimed, the evidence would reflect that. Instead, he pointed out that all the broken mirrors and parts from the minibus were found at the side of the road in the grass.
Furthermore, the teen’s slippers and money were recovered from the trench— some distance from where his body eventually landed.
The father also noted that the front passenger side of the bus was visibly damaged, which he alleges does not support the claim that Yujraj was hit in the centre of the roadway.
“If he was hit in the middle, why are all the broken mirrors and parts of the bus in the grass at the corner? His slippers and money were found in the trench. The front passenger side of the bus is damaged—not the middle. Nothing about this adds up,” he said.
One eyewitness told Guyana Times that Yujraj was not emerging from behind a bus, as claimed by the driver.
According to the witness, the teenager had been standing on the opposite side of the road, speaking with friends in the village when he saw the approaching minibus. He then ran across the road to stop the vehicle near the corner.
However, the speeding minibus struck him with such force that he was flung into a signpost and then into a nearby trench.
The witness firmly emphasized that at no point did Yujraj exit from behind any bus.
“He saw the bus coming and crossed the road to stop it. He was in the corner when the bus, which was speeding, hit him and flung him into a signpost and then into a
trench. He didn’t come from behind any bus,” the eyewitness reported.
According to a Police report, Yujraj was crossing the road when he was struck by a minibus, and was rushed to the Charity Hospital but later pronounced dead.
Speaking with Guyana Times, the teen’s uncle, recounted the moments following the accident. He said the family received a call from the hospital around 3:00 p.m. and immediately rushed to Charity Hospital.
Ram and his father – the boy’s grandfather, arrived at the hospital within five minutes, and found Yujraj in the emergency section.
According to the uncle, they were informed that the teen had been involved in a vehicle accident and was in a semi-conscious state. However, just a few minutes
later, medical personnel informed them that Yujraj had succumbed to his injuries.
Ram said during this time, the family was also troubled by what they saw as a lack of proper medical support.
He explained that there was no ambulance driver on duty to transfer the injured teen to the Suddie Hospital for further treatment, and the hospital’s x-ray machine was not functioning. It wasn’t until after Yujraj had passed that someone eventually arrived to transport him to Suddie Hospital.
Ram said too that they went to the police station afterwards, and waited over an hour and a half before an officer responded.
He added that he was told that a visit to the accident scene would take place the following day, and that a family member could accompany the
officers.
However, despite calling repeatedly throughout the day, the family did not receive any response until late in the afternoon after they had reached out to a third party to intervene. Only then did the police arrange the site visit.
“They told us they would go to the scene the next day. We waited all day and had to call around just to get a response. It was only late yesterday [Wednesday] afternoon they contacted us to visit the scene...” Ram said.
The family is insisting on a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident.
“We just want a thorough investigation and justice...Too many things are not adding up,” the father told this publication.
Police investigations are ongoing.
The dead teen, Yujraj Ram
Doodnauth Ram, the father of the teen, stands where the family believes the accident happened
The minibus involved in the accident
Ram points to the trench in which his son and some of his son’s belongings were recovered
Regional
Suriname Elections: Worrying errors in vote counting; acceleration necessary – Santokhi
Suriname President, Chan Santokhi, has expressed his concern about the course of the election process during a press conference on Friday. According to him, significant errors have been made in the counting of votes and the completion of the official reports.
The president has since consulted with the participating political parties and all electoral authorities. He appeals to the political parties and society to prevent polarization.
It was agreed that the process would be completed as quickly as possible, but the recounts are taking a lot of time. More than 80 polling stations will be recounted.
The president will consult again this weekend with, among others, the Central Polling Station (CHS), the Independent Electoral Office (OKB) and the chairmen of the main polling stations.
An approach is being developed in which shifts are worked on 24 hours a day.
The political parties have also expressed their concerns to the president about the delays. They have urgently appealed to him to do everything possible to speed up the process.
The president has consulted with the political parties on the basis of article 9 of the Decree on Political Parties.
During the consultation it also emerged that many members of polling stations were insufficient -
ly prepared for their task. More than 500 designated persons cancelled their attendance in the week before the elections. As a result, untrained replacements had to be deployed, which led to numerous errors.
Although the recounts have not shown any major deviations in the results so far, they have proven necessary according to the election authorities. In many cases, no conclusive results could be determined on the basis of the submitted official reports and tally lists.
President Santokhi emphasised that the legal deadlines for the swearing-in of Assembly members, the president and the vice-president are approaching. He urged the election process to be completed quickly. In the coming week, the election authorities will provide both the political parties and the media with further information on the state of affairs. (Source: Star Niews)
St Lucia police detail US$ 3M cocaine seizure, other busts
Following a major firearm interdiction at Port Castries on Tuesday, the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) launched a coordinated series of operations across the island, targeting firearms, narcotics, and organized crime.
Over the past 48 hours, the Gangs, Narcotics and Firearms Unit North and South, the Special Operations Team, K9 Unit, Special Services Unit North, and the Tactical Response Unit South conducted targeted actions aimed at disrupting transnational criminal activities and enhancing public safety.
On Wednesday, 28th May 2025, a joint operation involving multiple units of the RSLPF resulted in one of the largest recent drug seizures on the island.
During a strategic sweep of Dauphin Beach and nearby vegetation in Monchy, officers discovered a partially camouflaged dinghy tucked along the shoreline. A thorough inspection led to the recovery of 175 brick-shaped packages containing a white powdery substance. Field tests confirmed
the substance to be cocaine. The total weight of the narcotics amounted to 196.56 kilograms, with an estimated street value of EC $4,914,000 (equivalent to over USD $3.85 million).
In a separate operation on the morning of Thursday, 29th May 2025, the Southern Detachment of the Gangs, Narcotics and Firearms Unit, in collaboration with the Tactical Response Unit South, executed two search warrants in the communities of Desruisseaux and Mon Repos.
These warrants authorized searches for controlled drugs, firearms, and illicit cash.
At a residence in Mon Repos, officers discovered one black Colt.357 revolver, two rounds of .357 Magnum ammunition, and a quantity of cannabis resin totalling approximately 52 grams.
Also on Thursday, 29th May 2025, a major drug interdiction was conducted at the Vieux Fort Port, where officers from the Southern Detachment of the Gangs, Narcotics and Firearms Unit and K9 Unit uncovered cannabis resin concealed inside imported food products.
A suspicious package, originating from New York City, had been flagged during routine inspections and repeatedly indicated positively by the K9 Unit.
Under supervision, officers opened the package at a secure port facility. Inside a large cardboard box filled with assorted food and household items, investigators discovered strong indications of narcotics.
Upon further inspection, five food containers were found to have been tampered with. Hidden within were twenty-five vacuum-sealed black plastic packages containing a substance suspected to be cannabis resin. Items used in the concealment included familiar grocery products.
The recovered suspected cannabis resin weighed approximately 10.35 kilograms, with an estimated street value of EC $68,100.
The intended consignee of the package remains unaccounted for, and no arrests have been made at this time. However, investigators have identified multiple persons of interest and are actively pursuing several leads. (Source: Loop Caribbean News)
J’ca Top cop shoots down rumours of police hit team
Jamaica’s Police Commissioner, Dr Kevin Blake, has dismissed claims that a socalled "killer squad" is operating within the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), calling the idea illogical and harmful to both officers and the public.
"I don't know from where that comes, right? But that's absolutely not how we operate. We have no such thing," Blake said during a post-cabinet media briefing on Thursday, where government and law enforcement officials addressed questions regarding national security.
His comments come as the JCF confirmed it had conducted one of the largest weapons seizures in Jamaican history, involving 233 firearms and more than 40,000 rounds of ammunition being intercepted at the port.
The seizure included 74 rifles and 159 handguns. Minister of National Security
Dr Horace Chang said the arms cache could "equip a company of soldiers", and praised the work of Jamaica Customs Agency in making the bust.
"That level of ammunition on the streets with these weapons is designed to create mayhem by a distorted and cruel mind and that must be stopped," Chang said Blake also dismissed the notion of rogue units operat-
ing without oversight.
"The JCF of today, if you notice, there is no one individual, there is no one formation, there is no one name. The name-brand policing era has gone. What you hear is the Jamaica Constabulary Force," he said. "We probably have the largest number of oversight bodies in any police organisation in this side of the world." (Source: Jamaica Star)
US Supreme Court allows Trump to revoke humanitarian parole for
The conservative-dominated United States Supreme Court has handed President Donald Trump another major victory, allowing his administration to revoke a temporary legal status from more than 500,000 immigrants as legal challenges continue in lower courts.
Friday’s decision applies to hundreds of thousands of Venezuelan, Cuban, Haitian and Nicaraguan people who were granted humanitarian parole under the administration of former President Joe Biden.
That parole status allowed them to enter the US due to emergencies or urgent humanitarian reasons, including instability, violence and political repression in their home countries.
But the Supreme Court’s ruling means that the beneficiaries of humanitarian parole could be targeted for deportation prior to a final ruling on whether the revocation of their immigration status is legal.
Mexican
530,000
The ruling by the top court, which is dominated six-to-three by conservatives, reverses a lower court’s order temporarily halting the Trump administration from yanking humanitarian parole from Venezuelans, Cubans, Haitians and Nicaraguans.
The Supreme Court’s decision was unsigned and did not provide reasoning. However, two liberal justices on the panel publicly dissented.
Trump has targeted programmes like humanitarian
parole as part of his efforts to limit immigration into the US. His administration has accused Biden of “broad abuse” in his invocation of humanitarian parole: Trump has said Biden was lax on immigration and oversaw an “invasion” of the US from abroad. Since taking office in January, Trump’s administration has also indefinitely suspended applications for asylum and other forms of immigration relief. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
authorities seize more than 3 million liters of stolen fuel
Mexican
authorities said they seizeda more than 3 million liters (792,516 gallons) of illegally stored fuel at a property in the country's southeast state of Tabasco, the latest in a string of major fuel-related seizures across the country.
The seizure on Thursday is part of Mexico's ongoing battle against fuel smuggling, which includes both the theft of fuel from state-run oil firm Pemex's pipelines and imports under false classifications to
evade taxes.
"Eighteen vehicles, three pieces of machinery, and 3,904 metal-structured containers containing the hydrocarbon, identified as a petroleum derivative, were secured," Mexico's security cabinet said in a joint statement on Thursday.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said on Friday the seizures have to do with a recent system of "traceability" of fuel imports from their origin until they reach
the point of sale. State-owned Pemex has for years faced rampant theft of crude and refined products through illegal pipeline taps across Mexico, resulting in massive losses.
Over the past weeks, authorities have discovered 1.5 million liters of fuels in two raids in the state of Tabasco and 10 million liters in the state of Tamaulipas from a ship from the United States that had arrived weeks before in Mexico. (Reuters)
President Chan Santokhi during a press conference Friday evening
Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness (left) chats with Police Commissioner Dr Kevin Blake during a post-cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House on Thursday
Law enforcement officers, including HSI and ICE agents, take people into custody at an immigration court in Phoenix, Arizona, US, May 21, 2025 (REUTERS/Caitlin O'Hara/File Photo)
Around the World
US crude futures fall more than $1/bbl on possible OPEC+ output hike
U.S. crude futures fell more than $1 a barrel on Friday on expectations OPEC+ will decide on Saturday to boost oil output for July beyond previous forecasts.
Brent crude futures were down by 34 cents, or 0.53%, at $63.79 a barrel by 1643 GMT. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude was last down 73 cents, or 1.2%, at $60.21 a barrel, having earlier dropped more than $1 a barrel.
The Brent July futures contract is due to expire on Friday. The more liquid August contract was trading 67 cents lower, or 1.06%, at $62.67 a barrel.
At these levels, the front-month benchmark contracts were headed for weekly losses over 1%.
Prices dipped into negative territory after
Reuters reported that OPEC+ may discuss an increase in July output larger than the 411,000 barrels per day rise that the group decided on for May and June.
"What OPEC+ is planning doesn't look particularly supportive for the oil market," said Matt Smith, Kpler's lead analyst for the Americas.
The potential OPEC+ output hike comes as the global surplus has widened to 2.2 million bpd, likely necessitating a price adjustment to prompt a supply-side response and restore balance, said JPMorgan analysts in a note, adding that they expect prices to remain within the current range before easing into the high $50s by year-end. (Reuters)
At least 115 killed in floods in central Nigeria
More than 100 people have died and several others remain missing after a torrential downpour in the central Nigerian state of Niger, local authorities said on Friday.
Floods submerged the town of Mokwa after the rains began on Wednesday night and continued into Thursday morning. Ibrahim Audu Hussein, a spokesperson for the state emergency management agency, said rescue efforts were still under way on Friday.
“We have so far recovered 115 bodies and more are expected to be recovered because the flood came from far distance and washed people into the River Niger.
Stocks drop as Trump claims China has ‘violated’ trade agreement and tensions flare
Stocks were mostly lower on Friday and set to close out a wild month with a whimper.
Stocks fell Friday morning after President Donald Trump said China has “totally violated” its trade agreement with the United States, sending another jolt to markets after a whiplash week of tariff developments.
Stocks took a step lower later in the day on a report that said the Trump administration is considering broadening tech sanctions on China. The Dow hovered around the flatline Friday afternoon after fluctuating between gains and losses. The broader S&P 500 was down 0.3% and the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite slid by 0.8%.
The S&P 500 and Nasdaq dropped as much as 1.1% and 1.7% respectively in the afternoon after Bloomberg reported that the White House is mulling adding “licensing requirements on transactions with [Chinese] companies that are majority-owned by already-sanctioned firms.”
Stephen
Miller, White
House deputy chief of staff for policy, also told reporters on Friday that the Trump administration is preparing other trade actions to target China, according to Reuters.
While stocks were lower Friday, the overall reaction from markets was relatively muted. (Excerpt from CNN)
Israel accepts new US proposal for ceasefire with Hamas, says Israeli official
Israel has accepted the new proposal for a ceasefire with Hamas from US envoy Steve Witkoff, according to an Israeli official.
The proposal, viewed by CNN, includes Hamas releasing 10 Israeli hostages and 18 deceased hostages in exchange for 125 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences and 1,111 Gazans detained since the war began. Negotiations toward a permanent ceasefire would begin immediately on the first day of the 60-day truce, according to the proposal.
Meanwhile, Hamas said the latest framework comes from Israel and “does not respond to any of our people’s demands, foremost among
which is stopping the war and famine,” according to Bassem Naim, a member of the militant group’s political bureau.
“Nevertheless, the movement’s leadership is studying, with all national responsibility, a response to the proposal, in light of the genocide to which our people are being subjected,” he added on Facebook.
According to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the hostage families earlier in the day that he had accepted Witkoff’s proposal.
If Israel and Hamas fail to reach an agreement for a permanent ceasefire by the end of the 60-day period, the
pause in fighting “may be extended under conditions and for a duration to be agreed upon by the parties so long as the parties are negotiating in good faith,” the proposal says.
But the agreement contains no intrinsic guarantee of a permanent end to the war, a key Hamas demand, nor assurances that the ceasefire will be extended as long as negotiations continue.
The proposal does say the aid will begin flowing “once Hamas agrees to the ceasefire agreement,” an indication that the plan was coordinated with the Israelis.
The US, Egypt, and Qatar would guarantee the ceasefire agreement, accord-
ing to the proposal.
The Hamas official told CNN Hamas would agree to the release of the hostages and a 60-day ceasefire, as outlined in the US proposal, but they want US assurances that negotiations over a permanent ceasefire will continue and the fighting will not resume after the 60 days.
Hamas wants the humanitarian assistance to be carried out through the United Nations channels.
And lastly, they want the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to pull back to the positions that they held on March 2 this year, before Israel relaunched its military operations. (Excerpt from CNN)
China sets up international body in Hong Kong to rival World Court
The Chinese government has signed a convention establishing an international mediation organisation located in Hong Kong, with Beijing hoping it will rival the International Court of Justice (ICJ) as the world’s leading conflict resolution body.
The Convention on the Establishment of the International Organisation for Mediation (IOMed) was signed into law on Friday, in a ceremony presided over by Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi in Hong Kong.
The ceremony was at-
Downstream, bodies are still being recovered,” Husseini told the AFP news agency. “So, the toll keeps rising.”
More than 3,000 houses were submerged, he added. Mokwa, about 230 miles (370km) west of Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, is a commercial hub in Niger state, with many traders and heavy-duty vehicles often carrying goods to other regions.
In Nigeria the rainy season usually runs from April to October. On Wednesday the Nigerian Meteorological Agency had issued a forecast of heavy storms for Abuja and 14 of the country’s 36 states including Niger. (Excerpt from The Guardian)
Pakistan, India close to completing border troop reduction, senior Pakistani general says
Pakistan and India are close to reducing the troop build up along their border to levels before conflict erupted between the nuclear-armed neighbours this month, a top Pakistani military official told Reuters on Friday, although he warned the crisis had increased the risk of escalation in the future.
Both sides used fighter jets, missiles, drones and artillery in four days of clashes, their worst fighting in decades, before a ceasefire was announced.
General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Pakistan's chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, said in
an interview that the two militaries had started the process of drawing down troop levels.
"We have almost come back to the pre-22nd April situation... we are approaching that, or we must have approached that by now," said Mirza, the most senior Pakistani military official to speak publicly since the conflict.
India's ministry of defence and the office of the Indian chief of defence staff did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment on the remarks by Mirza. (Excerpt from Reuters)
tended by representatives from several countries, including Indonesia, Pakistan, Laos, Cambodia and Serbia.
Representatives from 20 international bodies, including the United Nations, also attended the ceremony, according to Hong Kong’s RTHK public broadcaster.
A video shown at the signing ceremony said the scope of cases handled by the body would include disputes between countries, between a country and nationals of another country, and between private international entities.
Beijing plans for the body to cement Hong Kong’s presence as a top global mediation hub, as it hopes to bolster the city’s waning international credentials.
In an un-bylined opinion piece published in China’s state-run Global Times newspaper, IOMed was described as the “world’s first intergovernmental international legal organisation dedicated to resolving international disputes through mediation”.
IOMed would fill a “critical gap in mechanisms focused on mediation-based dispute resolution”, it said. The ICJ – the principal judicial organ of the UN, also known as the World Court – is currently the top body for solving legal disputes between member states in accordance with international law. It also provides advisory opinions on legal questions referred to it by UN bodies.
(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
Large parts of the town of Mokwa were submerged by floods caused by torrential rain
The International Organisation for Mediation (IOMed) headquarters under construction in Hong Kong on May 29, 2025
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Put anger aside and do what's necessary to maintain balance, integrity and financial stability. Refuse to let your emotions call the shots. Talk to experts and thoroughly assess your situation.
Outside influences will cost you. Limit the information you share with others. An emotional conversation with the people closest to you will ease stress and lead to better days.
Hunker down and observe what's happening around you. Set a budget, build equity and position yourself for long-term gains. Focus on personal growth, physical strength and emotional clarity.
You're well positioned. A passionate point of view followed by action will make others take note and join your team. Romance is in the stars, and personal improvement will lead to opportunities.
Rethink your current position, your next move and what it might cost. A change may beckon you, but building momentum will be necessary to clear the obstacles in your path. Look at every angle.
Consult your inner circle and gather input before you make a bold move. There is plenty to look forward to, but making your life comfortable will help you reach your expectations without interference.
Avoid putting yourself in a vulnerable position. Sit back, observe and be patient, and you'll buy enough time to make minor but crucial changes to avoid emotional setbacks.
Pick up the pace and head toward your destination with enthusiasm. Voice your opinion and put your energy into how you earn your living, handle investments and deal with associates.
Avoid getting caught in excessive or indulgent situations. Question everything and everyone. Ask an expert and protect your assets, health and emotional well-being.
Ignore the changes others make and do what's best for you. Use your skills to bring about positive change at home. The support you drum up will lead to worthwhile connections and promising partnerships.
Too much, too quickly will cause controversy. Transparency and giving those close to you a voice will pay off. Leave no stone unturned; time is on your side, and patience will prevent setbacks.
ARCHIE
MI eliminate GT to set up Qualifier 2 with PBKS
Strip away everything else, and you can more often than not reduce T20 contests to a simple count-off: who hit more sixes? Mumbai Indians (MI) hit 17 in the IPL 2025 Eliminator, and Gujarat Titans (GT) hit eight.
Rohit Sharma top-scored for MI with 81 off 50 balls; B Sai Sudharsan top-scored for GT with 80 off 49. The difference lay in MI's hitting depth. Five of their batters cleared the boundary at least three times each.
This hitting depth took MI to the second-highest total in any IPL playoff game, and ensured that GT's target always remained just out of reach, even though their chase, advantaged by dew, remained alive almost until the end.
And there was one other difference between MI and GT, a difference MI can call on against every other team in the tournament: Jasprit Bumrah. His raw figures were impressive enough - 1 for 27 in four overs - and he also produced the
moment of the match, a pinpoint leg-stump yorker to bowl Washington Sundar between his legs, and end an 84-run fourth-wicket stand with Sai Sudharsan.
Bumrah followed up with an 18th over that went for just nine runs - despite containing a six - and that left GT with 36 to get off the last 12 balls. It became 24 off six after Trent Boult's 19th over, and while it was possible - especially with Rahul Tewatia and Shahrukh Khan at the crease - it's an equation that usually favours the bowling team.
Rohit rides his luck, Bairstow returns with a bang MI's total was built on the back of a blazing start from their new opening pair. Jonny Bairstow, replacing Ryan Rickelton who has left on international duty, smashed a 22-ball 47 on his debut for his third IPL team.
fourth fifty and highest score of the season.
MI chose to bat a day after Punjab Kings, sent in, had been bowled out for 101 at the same venue. This was a different pitch, however, with even bounce and none of the seam movement of Qualifier 1.
Even so, GT could have had MI in trouble early, only for Gerald Coetzee and Kusal Mendis - the latter making his IPL debut - to put Rohit down on 3 and 12. Within minutes, GT were firmly on the back foot, with Bairstow tonking Prasidh Krishna for 26 runs - though two of his boundaries came off the edge - in the fourth over.
quickly found their voice, with Mendis putting a shocker behind the stumps - apart from the early Rohit spill, he also dropped Suryakumar in the 12th over - behind him with a pair of big leg-side sixes off Boult in the third over, and Sai Sudharsan finding the gaps with impressive frequency while rushing past 700 - and then 750 - runs for the season.
Mendis was looking ominous on 20 off nine balls when he fell in unfortunate fashion, his back foot slipping backwards when he stepped deep in his crease to pull Mitchell Santner in the seventh over, and trampling the stumps. It portended good things for GT in a way, though, since it was an early sign of dew.
and Washington's front leg opening up to try and create space for his bat to access the ball only created a channel for the ball to burst through.
thing about MI's innings was the steadily rising frequency of their six-hitting. Even though Bairstow and Suryakumar Yadav - who made his 15th successive 25-plus score in T20s - were out by then, they cleared the rope nine times in the last six overs, with Tilak Varma and Naman Dhir doing their bit before Hardik Pandya finished with three maximums off Coetze in a 22-run final over.
The ball certainly came onto the bat beautifully as the Sai SudharsanWashington partnership surged. Washington took a little while to get going - he was on 11 off nine initiallybut quickly found his boundary-hitting range and began to dominate the stand. When he hit Boult for two sixes and a four in the 13th over, he was on 47 off 22, and GT needed 81 off 42.
Bumrah turns the tide
It was at this point that Bumrah re-entered the game. The fourth ball of his third over was a candidate for the ball of IPL 2025, swerving late, homing into the base of leg stump,
Rohit, meanwhile, made his
Bairstow fell in the eighth over, but MI kept punching. Rohit's use of the sweep against GT's spinners was particularly noteworthy, bringing him 27 runs - the most he's scored with variants of the sweep against spin in any IPL innings for which shot data is available - off just six balls.
He slowed down after reaching his half-century, only scoring 31 off his last 22 balls. Here was another parallel with Sai Sudharsan's innings: he scored 28 off his last 21. And just like Sai Sudharsan and Washington, Rohit and Bairstow put on 84 off 44 balls.
MI flex their middle-order muscle
The most ominous
If GT could have done anything differently with the ball, it could have been to use the slower ball more often. Prasidh and Mohammed Siraj dismissed Rohit and Tilak in the 17th and 18th overs with skillful use of this weapon, but GT probably turned to it a little too late, and didn't use it often enough even then.
By the time dew set in during the chase, this option was taken out of MI's toolkit, leaving them to put their trust in on-pace yorkers and the odd hard-length ball.
GT rebound quickly from early loss of Gill GT lost Shubman Gill early, with Trent Boult striking in typical fashionangling the ball across the right-hand batter and bending it back to trap him lbw - to pick up his 32nd firstover wicket in the IPL. Bhuvneshwar Kumar is some way behind in second place with 27.
Then Bumrah bowled a four-run first over of swing and searing pace, leaving GT 9 for 1 after two. But they
Mumbai Indians (20 ovs maximum)
Rohit Sharma c Rashid Khan
b Prasidh Krishna 81
Jonny Bairstow † c Coetzee
b Sai Kishore 47
Suryakumar Yadav c Washington Sundar
b Sai Kishore 33
Tilak Varma c †Mendis
b Mohammed Siraj 25
Hardik Pandya (c) not out 22
Naman Dhir c Rashid Khan
b Prasidh Krishna 9
Mitchell Santner not out 0
Extras (lb 7, w 4) 11
Total 20 Ov (RR: 11.40) 228/5
Fall of wickets: 1-84 (Jonny Bairstow, 7.2 ov), 2-143 (Suryakumar Yadav, 12.6 ov), 3-186 (Rohit Sharma, 16.4 ov), 4-194 (Tilak Varma, 17.2 ov), 5-206 (Naman Dhir, 18.4 )
Bowling O-M-R-W
Mohammed Siraj 4-0-37-1
Prasidh Krishna 4-0-53-2
Sai Kishore 4-0-42-2
Rashid Khan 4-0-31-0
Gerald Coetzee 3-0-51-0
Washington Sundar 1-0-7-0
It wasn't over yet, but with Sai Sudharsan falling to Richard Gleeson - another MI debutant - in the 16th over as GT chased a boundary almost every ball, MI's grip tightened. And with all the dew about, their execution of yorkers - they usually didn't miss by much even when they did miss - was exemplary. Bumrah and Boult were excellent, and Gleeson bowled three hard-to-hit balls in the 20th to close it out mathematically before trudging off with a hamstring issue, but Impact sub Ashwani Kumar was just as good. The left-armer eventually had the responsibility of bowling the last three balls, and finished with 1 for 28 in 3.3 overs. (ESPNcricinfo)
Gujarat Titans (T: 229 runs from 20 ovs)
Sai Sudharsan b Gleeson 80
Shubman Gill (c) lbw b Boult 1 Kusal Mendis † hit wicket b Santner 20 Washington Sundar b Bumrah 48 Sherfane Rutherford c Tilak
Rohit Sharma produced in the big game
Sherfane Rutherford and Gujarat Titans season comes to a disappointing end.
Mumbai Indians heads into Qualifier 2.
Sai Sudharsan impressive season continued
Beaumont, Jones tons, Smith five-for on debut hand England big win
England's experiment with Amy Jones at the top of the order paid dividends as she and opening partner Tammy Beaumont scored centuries in a 108-run victory over West Indies in the first ODI in Derby.
It was Jones' maiden international century after 12 years and more than 200 games across formats for England, helping to set a lofty victory target of 346 after captain Nat SciverBrunt, who chimed in with a 35-ball fifty, won the toss.
Linsey Smith, the leftarm spinner on ODI debut following a career resurgence in 2024 after nearly five years on the outer, claimed a five-wicket haul to bowl West Indies out for 237 with 10 balls to spare despite a 91-run opening partnership between Hayley Matthews and Qiana Joseph.
Jones and Beaumont both scored at better than a run a ball and shared a 222run stand for the first wicket as England reached 345 for 6.
Jones had opened the batting 22 times previously in ODIs, but not since the 2019 Women's Ashes - and 18 times in T20Is, most recently during the World Cup in Australia five years ago.
But perhaps in a sign of what was to come, she had opened with Beaumont in all seven of her innings for The Blaze in this year's domestic one-day cup competition and scored 80, 52 and 41 in her last three outings there.
Jones's innings was chanceless until, on 92, she drove the ball hard back
at bowler Jahzara Claxton who couldn't hold on despite getting both hands to it. Karishma Ramharack missed a similarly wellstruck return catch off Jones in the next over.
Jones displayed excellent placement and timing, highlighted by a beautiful cover drive off Zaida James for four followed by two more boundaries off the same bowler, threaded expertly between backward and cover point and plundered over mid-on. She brought up her half-century in 59 balls with a single into the leg side off Matthews.
Beaumont was more circumspect in raising her fifty although an assertive six over wide long-on, also off Matthews, put her in touch-
Qiana Joseph b Capsey 62
Zaida James lbw b Smith 7
Shemaine Campbelle b Smith 9 Shabika Gajnabi c †Jones b Cross 16
Mandy Mangru † b Smith 1
Aaliyah Alleyne c Cross b Bell 44
Jahzara Claxton c Dunkley b Smith 17
Cherry-Ann Fraser c Dunkley b Smith 3 Afy Fletcher c Dunkley b Arlott 11
Karishma Ramharack not out 4
Extras (lb
of wickets: 1-91 (Hayley
14.1 ov), 2-124 (Zaida
22.5 ov), 3-139 (Qiana Joseph, 27.5 ov), 4-139 (Shemaine Campbelle, 28.2 ov), 5-147 (Mandy Mangru, 30.6 ov), 6-171 (Shabika Gajnabi, 35.1 ov), 7-192 (Jahzara Claxton, 38.4 ov), 8-202 (Cherry-Ann Fraser, 40.6 ov), 9-219 (Afy Fletcher, 43.3 ov), 10237 (Aaliyah Alleyne, 48.2 ov) Bowling O-M-R-W Lauren Bell 7.2-0-41-1
out for the rest of the summer with a hamstring injury - slotted in at No. 6 and shared a 57-run partnership with Sciver-Brunt.
Sciver-Brunt made a rapid 52 off 36 balls before she fell lbw to Fletcher and Capsey ended with 24 off 19 before she chipped Alleyne to Matthews at extra cover in the final over.
laboured 7 off 29 balls.
In the meantime, Joseph raised her second fifty in ODIs, greeting Capsey's introduction to the attack with consecutive fours either side of the V followed by a single to long-on to bring up the mark off 53 deliveries.
346 runs from 50 ovs)
Hayley Matthews (c) c †Jones
b Arlott 48
ing distance and she met the milestone off 74 balls with a cut single off Afy Fletcher.
Beaumont signalled a remarkable shift in tempo when she followed backto-back fours off Aaliyah Alleyne immediately with another six pulled over deep square leg. Her third maximum came off Claxton through wide long-on and she showed great innovation moments later to uppercut a four through deep third before edging Claxton's next ball just past wicketkeeper Mandy Mangru for four more.
Suddenly Beaumont had moved to 92 off 93 and it became a century race between the openers after they posted a first-wicket stand worth 200 for only the fourth time in England Women's ODI history.
Beaumont reached the landmark first, having faced just 22 balls for her second fifty, as she struck two fours in three balls off Ramharack
other six over wide long-on off Matthews.
Jones brought up her century with a four through extra cover off Cherry-Ann Fraser, prompting a satisfied smile to spread across new head coach Charlotte Edwards' face.
Beaumont's innings finally ended as she advanced to Fraser, missed the cutter and heard her middle and leg stumps rattled.
Emma Lamb came in at No. 3 after forcing her way back into the England squad after a peerless start to the domestic 50-over competition. Replacing Maia Boucher in the squad for this series, her stay at the crease was short-lived on Friday when she attempted a reverse-sweep off Matthews and sent a faint top edge to the keeper via her forearm.
Jones launched Fraser down the ground for six, followed by back-to-back fours, but she holed out in Matthews' next over, ending
Matthews - player of the T20I series despite her side failing to win a game - and Joseph made a decent start in the face of some scrappy England fielding, although the hosts' efforts weren't anywhere near as poor as the last time this duo combined so well at the top of the order against them. On that occasion, during the T20 World Cup, England put down five catches to lose the game and exit the tournament.
Em Arlott, joining Smith on ODI debut after making her first appearances for England during the T20s against West Indies, made the crucial breakthrough by drawing an edge from Matthews, who was caught behind by Jones two runs shy of her half-century.
Arlott should have had her second in the same over - a wicket maiden in the end - as James flashed at a drive which flew straight to backward point but Dunkley spilled the chance.
Arlott then beat James with a late-moving fuller but it was Smith who pinned James lbw for a
But it was Capsey who ended Joseph's stay on 62. After missing a tough caught-and-bowled chance off Shemaine Campbelle the previous delivery, Capsey sent down a slower ball that dipped and beat Joseph's attempted slog to rattle the stumps.
That sparked a mini-collapse in which West Indies lost three wickets for eight runs in the space of 20 deliveries as Smith bowled Campbelle and Mangru to make it 147 for 5 after they had been 124 for 2.
Dunkley twice held on in the deep midwicket region to give Smith her five-wicket haul, taking skied chances off Claxton and Fraser, the latter off the last ball of Smith's allocation to give her figures of 5 for 36 off 10 overs.
Alleyne proved stubborn with 44 of 45 balls but she became the last wicket to fall, skying Lauren Bell down the ground and caught by Kate Cross. (ESPNcricinfo)
Amy Jones and Tammy Beaumont added a double-century partnership
Linsey Smith took a five-for on ODI debut
Hayley Matthews drills one through the covers
IGG slated for December 5-7 in Guyana
Guyana will play hosts to the 54th edition of the Inter Guiana Games (IGG) late this year, Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle announced on Thursday. Ninvalle was at the
time delivering remarks at the launch of the 6th ExxonMobil Guyana Boys’ and Girls’ Under- 14 Football competition. Alluding to the upcoming tournament being a scouting and preparation platform for the Football
component of the IGG; Ninvalle went on to make the disclosure.
“With this Under 14 competition, we are seeing the future now and these young footballers who will graduate from this are the next
leaders of football in this country,” the Director of Sport shared.
He went on to disclose, “December 5th 2025, the National Sports Commission will be officially opening this year’s Inter Guiana Games,
GFF Providence, D’Urban Park facilities to see further progress soon
and
President of Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Wayne Forde on Friday, during a press briefing at the Federation’s National Training Center (NTC), Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD), provided an update on their two progressing facilities at Providence and D’Urban Park in Georgetown.
Forde’s statement read, “On 21st May 2025, the Guyana Football Federation received formal approval from FIFA to proceed with the appointment of a consultant to manage the tender process for Phase 1 of the National Training Centre (NTC). This approval came after FIFA’s meticulous review of the Federation’s internal processes for identifying, vetting, engaging, and ultimately selecting the most qualified consultancy firm to oversee the procurement phase.
Phase 1 of the NTC project comprises several foundational components. These include the installation of spectator seating on the western and southern sides of the pitch, as well as the construction of modernised washroom facilities to enhance user experience. A service road encircling the pitch will be developed as part of this phase, alongside significantly improved infrastructure for vending and concessionary services - essential elements for a func-
tional and community-oriented football venue.
SRKN’gineering, our technical partner, has completed over 90% of the architectural and engineering design works for the NTC, inclusive of revisions that have since been ratified by the GFF Council. In addition, SRKN has finalised the tender documentation for Phase 1, which paves the way for the project to move into its next critical stage.
We are currently preparing to enter into discussions with SRKN with a view to securing their services for project supervision and oversight throughout the construction phase. A public tender process for the execution of the works will be launched within the next four weeks. Upon conclusion of that process, the GFF will provide a further update to our members, partners, and the general public.
Blue Water Shipping Stadium at Durban Park – Design and PreConstruction Update Turning now to the Blue Water Shipping Stadium at Durban Park, this landmark project continues to make strong progress. SRKN’s design and engineering work is advancing steadily, enriched by the expert guidance and feedback provided by FIFA’s global infrastructure team. This partnership has ensured that the design framework is aligned with
international standards and reflects our shared ambition for a world-class facility.
SRKN has recently submitted the timeline for all critical design deliverables. These include the topographic survey, conceptual planning and layout, geotechnical assessments, comprehensive site development planning, and the preparation of tender drawings and documentation. Of particular importance is the submission of the Phase 1 tender package, which is scheduled for delivery by 31st August 2025.
Phase 1 of this project will include the construction of two mini pitches, general site development, perimeter fencing, access infrastructure, and other supporting structural works fundamental to the broader stadium development plan.
Upon receipt of the finalised tender documentation, the GFF will initiate a competitive public procurement process for the appointment of the contractor. This process will be managed externally to ensure transparency and alignment with best practices.
Throughout this journey, we have remained in close engagement with the leadership of Blue Water Shipping, keeping them apprised of the technical intricacies and project milestones. We are united by a shared vision:
to deliver a state-of-the-art stadium that will serve as a source of pride and inspiration for the young people of this beautiful country.
Construction activities of Phase 1 for the Blue Water Shipping Stadium are scheduled to commence in 2025, and we are committed to delivering a facility that meets the highest international standards.
In conclusion, I wish to express our deep gratitude to the Government of Guyana for generously allocating the land for both the National Training Centre and the Blue Water Shipping Stadium. I also wish to extend our heartfelt thanks to our partners at Blue Water Shipping for their steadfast commitment to the advancement of football across Guyana. Additionally, I would like to acknowledge and thank the FIFA Regional Office for their attentiveness and invaluable guidance throughout this journey. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in ensuring that the football infrastructure development goals of the GFF are being realised.
Together, we are building more than infrastructure—we are building hope, opportunity, and a brighter future for the next generation of young boys and girls whose hearts beat with the rhythm of football.”
t will run from December 5 to December 7 and I am assured that several of the players coming out from this Under- 14 competition, may be representing Guyana at that tournament.”
Last year, the IGG was held in French Guiana where almost 150 Guyanese athletes made the sojourn to compete in 8 sport disciplines.
Those disciplines included Athletics, Basketball, Beach Volleyball, Chess, Futsal, Swimming, and Table Tennis.
Guyana’s Women’s Under- 20 National team, the junior Lady Jags, suffered a crushing loss in their opening encounter of the 2025 CONCACAF Women’s U20 Championships, against regional powerhouses USA.
For the all- important contest at the Estadio Alejandro Morera Soto in Costa Rica, Guyana opted for a starting XI that included Captain Heike Clarke, goalkeeper Kymora Chung, Naomi Benjamin, Alexis Bayley, Jaida Tucker, Anaya Joseph, Sarah DaSilva, Liyah Menilek, Myanne Fernandes, Jaida Schoburgh and Se- Hanna Mars.
USA’s star striker of the day, Izzy Engle, got the ball rolling early, finding the back of the net in just the fifth minute off a previously saved attempt from her teammate, to put the USA ahead.
While the USA had their second strike ruled out on the basis of offside, they wasted no time in getting one back as Kennedy Fuller perfectly executed a penalty opportunity in the 13th minute. Engle returned in the 24th to register her second goal, holding the back post during a set piece from the corner and subsequently heading the ball into the nets for what was her team’s third strike.
Just a minute later, the contest became a 4-0 affair when Sealey Strawn added her name to the scoresheet. Before the half ended, Linda Ullmark (37th) and Engle (41st) added to the USA’s tally for a 6-0 score at the half.
Though still conceding another two goals, the Lady Jags’ defence looked much improved in the second segment of the game. importantly, the Guyanese side was able to stifle Engle, allowing her just one other goal in the 48th minute to complete her helmet trick. The American forward beat two Guyanese defenders on her tail, finding a space between the two to launch a shot into the corner of the net.
Then, after what can be considered a lengthy dry period for the USA, Emma Johnson capitalised off a loose ball that Guyana’s keeper, Chung has just pushed out, hitting the nets in the 77th minute. Should they advance to the tournament’s semifinals and secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA Women’s U20 World Cup, the lady jags will need victories in their two remaining Group A fixtures.
The Guyanese will take on hosts Costa Rica on Sunday, June 1 at 16:00hrs and Puerto Rico on Tuesday, June 3 at 13:00hrs.
GFF President Wayne Forde
Vice-President Rawlston Adams amongst other stakeholders on Friday.
The Lady Jags starting XI against USA on Friday afternoon
Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle
USA crushes Lady Jags 8-0 in U20 Championships opener
The second day in this year’s annual Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Bartica edition, street football is on tonight (Saturday), and among the teams which will be in action seeking a place in the semifinals are the reigning champions Mighty Ruler and the venue is Bartica Community Centre.
The first of seven matches scheduled for what promises to be an exciting evening starts at 19:00hrs and the opening game will be from last night’s playoff winner, which saw Hill Top Strikers playing Spanish Man, to face the winners from the Batavia and Falmouth clash.
Then game two is better defending champions Mighty Ruler and Ruler Top Form from 19:30hrs. Next game three is scheduled for 20:00hrs between Sterling Crew and Ghenosyde.
Thereafter, the quarterfinal matches begin. At 20:30hrs the first quarterfinal will be witnessed when the victorious team from one of last night’s matches which featured Agatash and Misdeamor takes on the winner of the Bad Boys and River’s View encounter.
At 21:00hrs, the winner of last night’s match between New Modern Crew and Police, takes on the winner of the team m Almanac Kings and Tony’s Avenue match.
From 22:00hrs, the victor of the game between Pluto and Team Angel, will face the winner in tonight’s first game which featured Spanish Man and Hill Top Strikers, and the winner of the Batavia and Falmoth game.
In the night cap at 22:30hrs, the winning team of game two tonight between the Mighty Ruler and Ruler Top Form, will match skills with the winner of the Stelling Crew and Ghenosyde game.
This year’s champion will carry home $500,000, the champion’s trophy and bragging rights. They will also represent Bartica in the National Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ football final set for Georgetown later this year.
The second- place finishers pockets $300,000, third $200,000 and fourth $150,000.
Before the semifinals tomorrow night, there will be a battle amongst the losing semifinalists in the plate competition which has at stake of $100,000.
Mighty Ruler among teams contesting for semifinal berths tonight
Guinness ‘Greatest of the streets’ Bartica… Flashback! A look at Bartica’s last Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ winner