Near-zero tax plan unveiled to push small agri-businesses into formal sector
To encourage small and medium-sized enterprises in the agriculture sector to become formally registered, President Dr Irfaan Ali announced that his Government will introduce a new taxation system under which these businesses could pay little to no corporate tax.
During the opening of GuyExpo on Thursday evening, President Ali spoke of introducing a “graduated corporate tax regime” for agro-processing businesses, by level of turnover, which will be defined in Budget 2026.
“This system will be graduated to the extent that small and medium-sized enterprises in the agri-business ecosystem would see close to zero or zero in corporate tax. This will incentivise our agriculture businesses to register themselves so they’re not afraid of the taxation system, so they become compliant, so we can help them to build their standards, and we can help them to adopt the value system that will give them access to regional and international markets,” he explained.
The President also announced that this new taxation system will see zero per cent on all agriculture, veterinary input, and agro-pro-
cessing input within the existing trade framework.
These measures, President Ali noted, are intended to transform Guyana into the largest agro-processing economy in this hemisphere.
“The building out of mega food parks. We will replicate the mega food parks across different regions with different focus…We will have a dynamic integration with agro-industrial integration. We will expand our investment in research and development… We will create value chain and market
access. We will pilot blockchain-based traceability for exports of our commodity. We will launch a food innovation fund, especially focusing on youth and young people,” President Ali outlined.
Additionally, he said the Government will have special incentives for agro-processing and agri-value chain investment, for large-scale cold storage facilities, and for land conversion that leads to sustainable income and income diversification.
“What do I mean? Our small and medium-sized farmers, we’re going to
help (them) to convert at least two acres in every 10 acres into livestock farming, swine production, small ruminants, and aquaculture. We are going to convert, help them, support them in
converting two acres in every 10 acres that will allow them to achieve higher value of income, that will allow them to achieve diversification within their existing production frame, that will
allow them to achieve resilience and profitability,” he explained.
In addition, President Ali said his Government will incentivise mega-scale livestock farming.
Woman accused of killing boyfriend charged for manslaughter …granted $600,000 bail
Police in Linden, Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice), have charged 28-year-old Oyanna Stewart with manslaughter in connection with the death of her boyfriend.
Stewart, an unemployed resident of Block 22, Wismar,
was arrested on November 10, 2025, following the fatal stabbing of 30-year-old Kevin Alexander. She was charged with manslaughter, contrary to Section 94 of the Criminal Law Offences Act, Chapter 8:01, alleging that she unlawfully killed Alexander.
On Friday, Stewart appeared before Magistrate Rushelle Liverpool at the Linden Magistrate’s Court. The charge was read to her, and she was not required to enter a plea since the matter is indictable. Bail was granted in the sum of $600,000. The case has been adjourned to December 18. Police reported that Alexander, a carpenter of Block 22, was fatally stabbed at the couple’s residence around 21:45h on Monday. Preliminary investigations suggest that he and Stewart were involved in an
argument during which she allegedly stabbed him once in the left side of his abdomen. Relatives and nearby residents assisted in rushing Alexander to the Linden Hospital Complex, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. His body has since been taken to the Gjetsco Funeral Parlour pending a post-mortem examination.
President Dr Irfaan Ali speaking at the launch of GuyExpo on Thursday
Dead: Kevin Alexander
Charged: Oyanna Stewart
BRIDGE OPENING
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Saturday, November 15 –13:35h–15:05h to Sunday, November 16 – 14:20h–15:50h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Thundery showers gradually easing to mid-day and afternoon sunshine are expected during the day, and cloudy skies are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East South-Easterly to East North-Easterly between 3.12 metres and 4.91 metres.
High Tide: 13:25h reaching a maximum height of 2.30 metres.
Low Tide: 06:55h and 19:21h reaching minimum heights of 0.95 metre and 0.91 metre.
Police roll out tech-driven, community-focused 2025 Christmas security plan for Georgetown
The Guyana Police Force’s Georgetown’s Regional Division 4A has launched its Christmas Policing Plan 2025, aimed at ensuring public safety and reducing crime during the peak festive season. Commander of the division, Senior Superintendent Simon McBean, outlined a comprehensive strategy that combines boots-on-the-ground policing, technology, and community engagement.
Highlighting the division’s crime profile, McBean stated that “over 60% of our crimes happens on the street.” This has shaped the Christmas policing strategy, which emphasises increased patrols across all sectors.
“Our Christmas policing plan will be focusing on putting boots on the ground,” he said.
Commander McBean said the division serves “a residential population of 30,000 and a daily visiting population of over 50,000,” a density that “requires robust policing.” He noted that the division currently comprises the headquarters, several offices, one station, and 11 outposts.
The divisional annual policing activities are set to run from November 15, 2025, to January 15, 2026, a period “characterised by intense commercial, social and cultural activities.”
He explained, “During this period, our shopping peaks, and as our shopping peaks, the visitors numbers also rise, so too does the potential for crime, congestion and public disorder, demanding a robust policing posture.”
Daily patrols
To achieve this, the division will deploy 207 patrols daily, comprised of 112 anti-crime and 95 traffic patrols, requiring 507 Police ranks each day. McBean detailed the breakdown: “258 of those are for anti-crime, and 249 ranks will be conducting traffic patrols on a daily basis.”
Patrols will include a combination of foot, bicycle, vehicle, maritime, mounted, canine, drone, and traffic patrols. Patrol timings are as follows: “Foot, bicycle, canine, moun-
ted patrols will be done from eight to a close of shopping. Our motorcycle patrols will be done up to midnight… and our motor vehicle and maritime patrols will be done on a 24-hour basis.”
McBean emphasised that technology will play a central role in the plan. “Now we will rely heavily on technology during this period to ensure that we have a successful policing season, and we will be using our smart cameras, facial and licence plate recognition cameras for identifying suspects, motor vehicles, and monitoring suspicious activities.”
The division will also use crime prevention and detection LCD monitors in key areas, including Stabroek Market, Bourda Market, and the seawall. “Since the implementation of those cameras, we would have seen significant reduction of reported crimes within those areas,” McBean said.
Additionally, “each rank going on duty will have a body camera. We’ll be wearing a body camera, and they will be a direct link, as always, between the command centre operations room and the patrols on the ground for faster Police response.”
Key focus areas include markets, shopping malls, Regent and Robb Streets, banks, commercial areas, tourism and recreational areas, hotels, residential areas, ferry stellings, post offices, and shipping agencies.
“At markets, you’ll find a joint patrol in its real sense, where a Police officer will partner with the city Police,” McBean explained. “Places like Giftland Mall, you will have Police officers in collaboration with private security on the ground that will ensure that those areas are safe.”
Collaboration and community engagement
He also highlighted collaboration with other regions: “For instance, Region 4A will have to collaborate with Region 4C, 4B in policing the road network… Also, we have to collaborate with Region Three for the ferry stellings… to ensure we have the required policing posture at those areas.”
Community engagement remains a key pillar of the plan. McBean stressed that the Police will strengthen partnerships through “community walkabout in meetings and our Christmas outreaches. Encourage residents to participate in community activities that will aid in crime deterrence within the area, collaborate with youth, youth and faith-based, and business organisations… encouraging citizens to use digital platforms such as WhatsApp, Park line, social media to report incidents of crime.”
He also confirmed that “we will continue to use our corporate communication unit to ensure we send our message, our crime tips, our crime prevention tips, our traffic issues… put out there by the CCU and also other media agencies.”
The policing plan includes heightened traffic enforcement and special arrangements for late-night shoppers. McBean explained, “Now, as customary, special arrangements will be implemented to facilitate late shopping on Christmas Eve and Old Year’s.”
Traffic patrols will target speeding, driving under the influence, double parking, diagonal parking, and obstruction. “Plan your trip if you’re coming in a group, consider carpooling, and use designated parking areas,” he advised.
Combining enforcement activities
Commander McBean’s Christmas policing plan combines visible patrols, technological monitoring, inter-agency collaboration, and community engagement to ensure the safety of Georgetown during one of the busiest seasons of the year.
“This Christmas season, we will have a safer environment for all businesses, shoppers and visitors,” McBean affirmed. “We intend to increase all forms of patrol… We will
be working in close collaboration with the city constabulary, security agencies, our business community and other stakeholders to ensure that we have a safer Georgetown for this season.”
Meanwhile, Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum outlined the Force’s intensified security plan. He said marine, mounted, and canine patrols will also be expanded, and the Command Centre’s CCTV monitoring capabilities will play a critical role in real-time crime prevention. Ranks on vacation leave will be recalled from December 1, and a special team of investigators will remain on standby at the CID Headquarters to be immediately dispatched to any region where serious or complex crimes occur. Recruitment and training programmes, he said, have also bolstered the Force’s manpower for the season.
Blanhum stressed that these operational strategies, combined with continued community outreach and cooperation with regional and international partners, have positioned the GPF to deliver one of its most comprehensive Christmas policing plans yet.
“We remain committed to fostering safer communities and ensuring that citizens can enjoy the festive season with a sense of security,” he said.
Crime Chief, Wendell Blanhum
Commander of Division 4A, Senior Superintendent, Simon McBean
Editor: Tusika Martin
News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761
Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707
Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Industrial Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown
Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com
SME support and agroindustrial development
President Dr Irfaan Ali has outlined a comprehensive strategy to strengthen Guyana’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and expand the country’s agro-industrial economy. These initiatives, announced during the opening of GuyExpo, signal a targeted approach to economic diversification, value creation, and inclusive growth, and have the potential to reshape the business landscape for years to come.
Central to the Government’s plan is the introduction of incentives for commercial banks to provide more accessible financing to SMEs. Under the proposed measures, banks will be required to lower interest rates to below four per cent and reduce collateral requirements for small and medium-sized businesses. This initiative mirrors existing incentives offered to mortgage borrowers and demonstrates a commitment to making capital more affordable for entrepreneurs. By alleviating financial constraints, these measures are expected to stimulate investment, increase business activity, and ultimately create employment opportunities across multiple sectors.
Complementing this effort is the development of a dedicated national development bank. Capitalised with at least US$200 million and scheduled to begin operations in the first quarter of 2026, the institution will operate without collateral requirements and provide loans at zero per cent interest up to a predetermined value. The bank will primarily focus on the agriculture, tourism, and services sectors, with the objective of supporting enterprises that generate tangible value and stimulate economic growth. By partnering dynamically with commercial banks, the development bank will serve as a critical mechanism for unlocking capital, encouraging enterprise development, and expanding the country’s economic base.
The President also highlighted the importance of formalising SMEs within the agriculture sector. To incentivise registration, the Government plans to implement a graduated corporate tax system for agro-processing businesses, based on turnover. This system, outlined in Budget 2026, is designed to minimise or eliminate corporate tax for small- and medium-scale enterprises. By reducing tax barriers, this initiative encourages compliance, enhances standards, and facilitates access to regional and international markets. It represents a strategic approach to integrating informal producers into the formal economy while simultaneously promoting growth, efficiency, and competitiveness.
In addition to tax incentives, the Government will introduce measures to eliminate tariffs on agriculture, veterinary, and agroprocessing inputs within the current trade framework. These policies aim to make inputs more affordable, reduce production costs, and enhance profitability for farmers and agro-processors. By lowering operational barriers, these reforms are expected to increase investment in value-added activities, expand productivity, and strengthen the entire agro-industrial ecosystem.
The broader objective of these measures is to position Guyana as a leading agro-processing hub in the hemisphere. Initiatives such as the creation of mega food parks, investments in research and development, and the establishment of value chains with market access are all designed to modernise the sector. The Government plans to implement pilot projects using blockchain-based traceability for commodity exports and establish a food innovation fund targeting youth participation. These measures collectively aim to boost production efficiency, foster innovation, and enhance the country’s export potential.
Moreover, the administration has emphasised diversification within agriculture. Plans to convert portions of existing farmland into livestock, swine, small ruminant, and aquaculture operations will provide farmers with new revenue streams while reducing dependence on single-crop production. Coupled with incentives for large-scale livestock farming, cold storage facilities, and sustainable land conversion, these measures are intended to enhance resilience, profitability, and long-term sustainability for the agricultural sector.
The Government’s approach also extends to social development initiatives, including support for over 1000 women trained under the WIIN programme to establish their own enterprises. By fostering female entrepreneurship, these initiatives strengthen economic participation and also contribute to broader social equity and community development.
The combination of financial support, tax incentives, regulatory facilitation, and targeted investment initiatives establishes a strategic commitment to empowering SMEs and modernising Guyana’s agroindustrial sector. These policies are expected to create thousands of business opportunities, stimulate employment, and drive longterm economic growth. By facilitating access to capital, promoting formalisation, and supporting value-added production, the Government is laying the foundation for a more inclusive and resilient economy, capable of competing in regional and global markets.
Creatives need a climate resilience fund
By AndreA dempster Chung
Whena Category 5 hurricane hits Jamaica, it doesn’t only topple trees and cause the devastation we are so familiar with seeing on our phones and TV screens. It also silences the street dances, cancels concerts, stops the artisan markets, damages the filmmaker’s equipment, and floods the potter’s studio.
It essentially halts creative economy activities, putting artistes’ and cultural practitioners’ livelihoods at risk and diverting funds from cultural investment towards basic recovery efforts. In the long term, repeated climate change disasters can destroy our cultural heritage.
Over the past week I was stuck in Miami, Florida, as the airports closed while I was in transit to Jamaica from Jakarta, Indonesia, where the Global Creative Economy Council (GCEC) was convening as well as meetings of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Secretariat and Friends of the Creative Economy – founders of the World Conference on Creative Economy. This region is the third largest in the world, behind India and China, with the fifth largest economy and boasting a gross domestic product (GDP) of US$3.8 trillion in 2023.
ASEAN is also significant for its trade in creative goods at an annual growth rate of 11 per cent, and its creative industries account for 7.1 per cent of GDP, with 3.2 billion in creative services and employing 7.2 million individuals. As we discussed the progressive creative economy framework being launched in the ASEAN region, halfway across the globe climate change loomed again as an ever-present threat to the Caribbean’s small island developing states (SIDS). In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, I’ve spoken to my colleagues at the Global Consortium of Entrepreneurship Centers (GCEC) about practical measures taken across the world to support creatives in crisis and how these lessons could be applied to our own artists, designers, filmmakers, and musicians who are sitting in the dark – literally and figuratively – without power, water, or Internet.
Here in Jamaica preliminary reports show that homes have been lost, instruments have been damaged, gigs have been cancelled, and incomes have disappeared overnight. These are the people who shape our culture, tell our stories, and carry our collective memory. And yet, when disaster strikes, the creative sector is often invisible in the immediate relief planning and the longer-term national recovery planning.
The real irony here is that Jamaica emits roughly 8.8 million metric tonnes of CO₂ per year. In comparison, global emissions exceed 50 billion tonnes annually, which means Jamaica’s contribution is essentially negligible. But despite its tiny carbon footprint, Jamaica, like other Caribbean and small island states, faces some of the most severe impacts of climate change, including stronger and more frequent hurricanes; rising sea levels;
drought; flash flooding; and the resultant damage to tourism, agriculture, coastal communities, and the creative economy. Jamaica is suffering disproportionate consequences for a climate crisis it did not cause.
Jamaica also contributes disproportionately to global culture – in a positive way. This tiny island nation has given the world reggae, dancehall, ska, mento, dub, and a rich literary and visual arts tradition that continues to influence music, fashion, film, and literature worldwide. Our cultural practitioners not only define Jamaica’s powerful identity but also shape global cultural trends, making the protection of creative livelihoods in this country of 2.8 million persons both a matter of local survival and an imperative for global cultural preservation. Artistes in Jamaica just don’t have the safety nets that other professions enjoy. After the passage of Hurricane Melissa there is no desk job to return to, no paid leave, and no guaranteed income. Most rely heavily on access to equipment, digital connectivity, imported materials of production, the presence of tourists, and physical space to earn a living. Their local customers have likely also suffered damage and, therefore, have less purchasing power to acquire creative goods and services. When hurricanes destroy these foundations, creative livelihoods in a fragile ecosystem vanish instantly.
If COVID-19 taught us anything, it is that the impact of the hurricane on artistes will unfold in waves. In the first days and weeks, work stops altogether. With no power, no water, no Internet, no venues, and no audiences, there can be no earning.
In the following months the savings slowly deplete, materials and tools can’t always be replaced, and grass-roots artistes, who often are breadwinners for their families, start to face food insecurity. Many will simply give up and find a different way to earn income. We lose not only jobs and their contribution to the creative economy but also artistic voices and cultural traditions. We lose the music that heals us and brings us joy, the paintings that tell our stories, and the poetry and theatrical performances that remind us of who we are as a people.
It’s time to treat culture as critical infrastructure in Jamaica, not a luxury, not a nice-to-have, but a necessity for national recovery, global nation-branding, and community well-being. That’s why Kingston Creative is calling for a Caribbean Artist Resilience Effort (CARE) – a regional model that can be used across the Caribbean, designed to protect creative livelihoods in times of crisis.
The concept is simple. First, create a national Creative Resilience Fund that provides short-term financial support and long-term resilience training for the artistes most affected by the disaster. Drawing inspiration from the recently announced Irish Basic Income for the Arts, this fund would offer modest monthly stipends to critically affected artistes over a four-to-six-month period, allowing creatives to feed their families
with dignity and rebuild their work and their lives. Locally, our 501(c)(3) partner, the American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ), would be critical in helping to raise these funds for creatives from the Diaspora and funnelling them to Jamaica for distribution. Donations could be made via the AFJ Disaster Relief Fund and ring-fenced for creatives by typing the words “Creative Resilience Fund” in the “Additional Information” box.
The CARE initiative would also give artists free access to shared workspaces at the Kingston Creative Hub; studios and rehearsal spaces with reliable power and Internet; as well as mental health support sessions; training in disaster preparedness; and an equipment grant to replace tools, costumes, and instruments lost in storms. We are not alone in this predicament, so a regional approach is needed.
Art as healing and recovery
After Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans, USA, in 2005, researchers found that communities that participated in arts activities were better able to rebuild, reconnect, and recover emotionally. Murals became symbols of strength. Music helped communities process grief and find hope. We can take that same lesson here in Jamaica so that creative expression is not an afterthought but is intentionally used as a form of recovery and healing for the nation and the worst-affected regions of the country.
To raise funds and awareness, leading entertainment companies are planning to come together to host a benefit concert, which we hope will be widely supported. This event would bring together Caribbean artistes and musicians to mobilise global funds for those most affected by Hurricane Melissa while celebrating the resilience that defines our island.
Climate justice in action
Let’s be clear, these storms will not stop. They will certainly intensify. And unless we act by putting a cultural safety net in place, each one will wash away a little more of the unique cultural identity of our island nations. We have to start having honest conversations about climate change, take bold steps to protect our culture, and build our capacity to survive what’s coming.
Governments, multilaterals, international partners, and private sector companies have an opportunity (and indeed a responsibility) to ensure that creative communities in small island developing states are not left behind in climate recovery. Artists deserve to be seen as essential workers in the rebuilding process – carriers of hope, identity, and social cohesion. The Caribbean’s culture is one of its greatest renewable resources. It sustains us spiritually and economically. Protecting our creative economy is not optional; it is climate justice in action. If we want to preserve the rhythm and resilience of our region, we must start by protecting the artistes, the people who give it its voice. (Jamaica Observer)
Dancers perform at the launch of GuyExpo 2025, themed “Transformation Through Entrepreneurship and Innovation,” at the National Exhibition Centre, Sophia. The four-day event runs from November 13 to 16 and features over 290 exhibitor booths (Office of the President photo)
You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, Queens Atlantic Investment Estate, Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com
City intervention not about undermining municipal Govt; it is about ensuring citizens’ needs are served
I have noted with interest the editorial published today by Stabroek News under the heading “Petty politics”, which draws attention to the state of our capital city, Georgetown, and the interplay between central Government and municipal authorities.
While I share the editorial’s concern about the deterioration of our city, we believe this is an important moment to clarify the Government’s position, mandate, action-orientated approach to governance and development, and unshakeable commitment to elevating Georgetown in line with our national transformative agenda.
A national mandate and the urgency of action: Under the leadership of President Dr Irfaan Ali, the Government has adopted a bold, whole-of-nation approach to development, propelled by our rapidly evolving socio-economic status and the imperative to modernise our infrastructure. Our mandate is clear: to build all of Guyana for the future, to raise the standards of living of all of our people, and to ensure that Georgetown, the seat of Government and the country’s principal urban centre, is restored, revitalised and reimagined to reflect Guyana’s ambition and potential.
The editorial correctly notes the extent of deterioration: infrastructure stress, chronic flooding, collapsing drainage, overburdened services and urban decay. In that light, the Government cannot afford the luxury of inertia or the repetition of tired political dynamics that for decades have held back our capital.
Responsiveness, not political gamesmanship:
Contrary to any suggestion of indecision or stalling, this Government is moving quickly. The creation of the multi-agency team to execute the Georgetown Drainage Development Plan and the partnership announced with the King’s Foundation (UK) are concrete interventions with tight timelines and real resources.
We are not interested in mere rhetoric; we are interested in results. And results demand a break from the status quo of decades of underperformance of successive city councils and municipal authorities that have lacked the vision, capacity or willpower to respond to basic, and more
so, growing demand.
It is recognised that the municipal authority, the Georgetown City Council under Mayor Alfred Mentore, is the constitutionally elected body for municipal infrastructure and services. But after years of successive administrations presiding over the decline of the city, including Mentore’s, brandishing political bravado with no workable plan to pull Georgetown out of the morass, while residents continue to suffer, we are taking decisive action.
What is also well known is the frustration of citizens who are tired of the back-and-forth, defensive postures, blame-shifting and municipal politics that prioritise power and control over service delivery and citizen welfare. The editorial’s reference to “piddling local authorities” highlights what is a widely settled assessment of the state of affairs at City Hall. It is therefore understandable, and indeed necessary, that the central Government is intervening decisively on behalf of the people of Georgetown. Allowing the usual political standoffs to continue is not an option when the livelihoods and daily lives of citizens are at stake.
Let us be clear: this intervention is not about undermining municipal Government. It is about ensuring citizens’ needs are served efficiently, professionally and transparently. The President has instructed that the relevant technical officers of City Hall, namely the City Engineer and Director of Solid Waste Management, be incorporated into the task force precisely because the expertise and institutional knowledge at City Hall must inform the transformation. Our view is that the operational tasks must be driven at a national level to accelerate outcomes, reduce red tape and bypass vested interests that have historically slowed progress. At the same time, full, meaningful stakeholder consultation has been built into the plan, from private sector partners, community groups, heritage bodies and municipal staff. This is inclusive governance in action.
President Ali has demonstrated a commitment to inclusive governance across every national sector. The opportunities for meaningful participation in the Georgetown revival plan remain wide open. Mayor Mentore,
councillors, and any stakeholder who comes to the table with no ulterior agenda and a genuine civic-duty mindset are welcome to engage, contribute, and assist. But we are firm and determined: there is no room for the tired political tactics of hugging power, obstructing progress or staging manoeuvres that prioritise political antics over people’s welfare.
The nation expects and deserves civic service, not spectacle. The Government means business about our country’s development and will not be diverted by gamesmanship.
To the citizens of Guyana and residents of Georgetown, this Government hears you. You are done waiting. You are done with the political games of City Hall, where promises are made and broken, where inaction and inertia have become the perpetual posture simply to keep you pointing fingers at the central Government. The Government is now in the phase of action and delivery for you. The multi-agency team is operational; technical studies have begun; contracts will be awarded; major works will commence. You will see tangible progress and, more importantly, meaningful improvements in your quality of life.
Be assured, our rescue plan is not a stunt; it is a sober, urgent, and results-driven intervention mandated by you, the people. The days of small-minded municipal politics at the expense of residents are over. The Government is moving. Georgetown will be transformed. And we invite all credible stakeholders, including Mayor Mentore and the City Council, to join us rather than attempting to stand in the way.
We will measure ourselves by how many streets are upgraded, how many canals flow, how many green spaces are restored and new ones created, how modern the city becomes with smoother residential and commercial interflows, better parking spaces and traffic flow, how well it represents its capital status, and ultimately how well it improves the standard of living for you and your families. That is the accountability we owe the people of Georgetown and the country.
Hon Kwame McCoy
Minister
in the Office of the Prime Minister
LCICD congratulates President Ali on bold development announcements for Region 10
Dear Editor,
The Linden Chamber of Industry, Commerce and Development (LCICD) extends warm congratulations to His Excellency Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, on the unveiling of transformative national development plans during the Opening Ceremony of Guy Expo 2025.
The Chamber welcomes and applauds the President’s forward-looking announcements, particularly those which directly address the growth, modernisation,
and economic upliftment of Linden and Region 10. We note with great appreciation the President’s renewed commitment to expanding opportunities for industrial development, empowering regional enterprises, strengthening infrastructure, and accelerating investments that can unlock Linden’s strategic potential. During his address, President Ali highlighted initiatives aimed at improving regional competitiveness, expanding manufacturing and value-added industries, and creating new avenues for
youth employment and entrepreneurship in Linden and Region 10. These priorities align closely with the Chamber’s own vision for private sector-driven development and inclusive economic expansion.
The LCICD stands fully prepared to collaborate with the Government of Guyana in the execution of these initiatives. As the leading private sector body in the region, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting national efforts, mobilising the local business community, and facilitating partnerships that can accelerate
Guyana faces terrorism
Dear Editor, The planting of a bomb at a gasoline station is a terrorist act that must be addressed swiftly and condignly, because if this deadly act is not addressed in a conclusive way, it sets the stage for future strikes, which have the capacity to create mass killings and massive destruction. At this stage of our development, we cannot allow our country to suffer setbacks of this nature. In this regard the authorities must stand guard to defend our nation against terrorism.
Terrorism, by definition, is the use of violence and intimidation against innocent civilians in pursuit of political gains. And this is precisely the point: all acts of terrorism in Guyana follow a distinct pattern; that is, they occur either before or after an election. There is no question about that. The latest deadly event is a case in point where the elections have been concluded and the first runner-up is dissatisfied with the results; he is also a soon-to-be-extradited individual.
So, are we to conclude that this latest terrorist act was as a result of the above reason/s? The answer is pellucidly obvious. Now, who can deny the fact that a Venezuelan who hardly speaks a word of English
could come into this country with a bomb and head straight to the gasoline station on Regent Street to plant his device? The answer is no one can, even if he were clairvoyant. So, there is clear evidence that this was an intentional act that was well planned and carefully executed, an act that was meant to create mass casualties, panic and mayhem.
What is even more egregious is the local involvement in the deadly attack; you cannot lose sight of the fact that the terrorist himself was helped by local counterparts. In my view, the local subversives led by their political operatives were the masterminds behind this attack, and the punishment meted out to them, all of them, should be swift and condign. We cannot tolerate terrorism on our soil, and every effort must be put into eradicating it. Hanging as a means of punishment for terrorist acts is justly appropriate and should be applied in this case. For information, hanging is still on the statute books, and on such an occasion its use is fair and morally correct. We must put our stamp of disapproval; the time is now!
Yours sincerely, Neil Adams
The unacceptable sacrifice
Dear Editor, I write with a heavy heart to highlight the impossible choice we seem to be facing. Why should the ordinary Guyanese citizen sacrifice their life, the lives of their children and other relatives, and compromise the security of our entire nation? This is the price being asked so that Azruddin Mohamed and his father can potentially evade being held
accountable for their crimes. Our safety and future security are non-negotiable. We cannot afford to have our national well-being sacrificed at the altar of personal avoidance of accountability. Justice must be served, and the integrity of our nation must be maintained above all else.
Yours respectfully, Brian Azore
growth and maximise the benefits for residents, investors, and enterprises alike. We look forward to continued engagement with His Excellency, the relevant Ministries, and Government agencies to ensure that these transformative plans are realised and that Linden plays a central role in Guyana’s evolving economic landscape. As we welcome the Government’s full support for the LCICD Investment Forum & EXPO 2026.
Yours sincerely, Lyndon Younge President, LCICD
00:00 Sign Off 06:00 Cartoons
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2025
07:00 Evening News (RB)
08:00 Stop Suffering
09:00 KTLT Kids Today Leaders Tomorrow
09:30 Movie - Gracie and Pedro: Pets to the Rescue (2024)
11:00 Movie - Rango (2011)
13:00 Movie - The Garfield Movie (2024)
15:00 Movie - Orion and the Dark (2024)
16:30 Movie - Spellbound (2024)
18:00 Evangelistic Hour
18:30 Hephzibah Ministries
19:00 Movie - Crimes of Fashion: Killer Clutch (2024)
20:30 Movie - Henry Danger: The Movie (2025)
22:00 Movie - Lift (2024)
Page Foundation
Example
◄ Composite Shapes Cont’d
Sometimes you may need to work out missing lengths before you can calculate the perimeter of a composite shape.
Find the perimeter of this composite shape.
There are some missing lengths we need to work out first.
Let’s look at the vertical lengths. Using the measurements for the other sides, we can tell that the missing vertical lengths are 6cm and 13cm.
All matter is made up of atoms, and all atoms are made up of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Protons have a positive charge, neutrons have no charge, and electrons have a negative charge. Each atom usually has a balance of protons, neutrons, and electrons, but what happens if they move from one object to another?
Materials Balloon
• Plate Salt
• Pepper Sink Faucet
Instructions
Part One
1. Pour some salt and pepper onto
We can then look at the missing horizontal length. The missing side is 7 + 5 + 4 = 16cm
We can now add all the sides together: 16 + 13 + 4 + 6 + 5 + 6 + 7 + 13 = 70. The perimeter of the composite shape is 70cm.
Practice Find the perimeter of these composite shapes.
a plate and mix them together.
2. Prepare your balloon by blowing it up and tying it shut. Then rub the balloon on your hair – this will charge the balloon. Remember: the rubbing must be done by the person doing the experiment.
3. Hold your charged balloon near (but not touching) the salt and pepper mixture. What do you see happening?
Part Two
1. Turn on your faucet and leave a small stream of water flowing out.
2. Charge your balloon again by rubbing it on your hair, then hold it near the stream of water. Now what happens?
What's happening?
When you rub the balloon on your hair, some of the electrons from your hair move over to the balloon, causing it to be negatively charged. Because the pepper is positively charged, when you hold the balloon close to the salt and pepper, the pepper jumps up to the balloon.
The water experiment you did is a little more complicated. The balloon is still negatively charged, but water is neutral (not positively or negatively charged). However, the molecular structure of water is polar – it has a positive end and a negative end. When you put the negatively charged balloon near the stream of water, the positive ends of the water molecules are pulled towards the balloon while the negative end is repelled. This causes the water to bend!
By Claude MCKay
About me young careless feet Linger along the garish street; Above, a hundred shouting signs Shed down their bright fantastic glow Upon the merry crowd and lines Of moving carriages below. Oh wonderful is Broadway — only My heart, my heart is lonely.
Desire naked, linked with Passion, Goes trutting by in brazen fashion; From playhouse, cabaret and inn The rainbow lights of Broadway blaze All gay without, all glad within; As in a dream I stand and gaze At Broadway, shining Broadway — only My heart, my heart is lonely.
A week ago, two moons had appeared in the night sky. Tonight they blinked at you.
Banks will have to slash SMEs interest rates to below 4% – Pres Ali
…as Govt prepares
President Dr Irfaan Ali has announced that commercial banks will soon have to lower their interest rates to below four per cent as well as their collateral requirements for small and medium-sized enterprises (SME).
“A special incentive regime will be created to sup-
zero-interest development bank
port lending to SMEs by the commercial banks, similar to the incentives we give them for housing. In exchange, the commercial banks will have to lower their interest rate to lower than four per cent and also lower their collateral requirement for SMEs,” President Ali said while addressing the open-
ing of GuyExpo on Thursday evening. He spoke of the Government’s campaign promise of launching a development bank, noting that works have already started and that the facility should be operational next year.
The bank will be capitalised with a minimum of US$200 million.
Corentyne businessman robbed as armed bandits invade …uses bottles as projectiles to defend himself
Three masked men with what appeared to be handguns robbed a Corentyne businessman of cash on Thursday.
The businessman, however, used empty beer bottles as projectiles after he was able to get away. The incident occurred at Brighton Village, Corentyne, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).
At the time, there were two customers at the shop sitting outside.
Fifty-six-year-old shopkeeper Satram Hitnarine said the two customers were taken into the shop while one of the intruders remained with him outside.
Initially, when he saw the bandits approaching, he tried to escape but was unsuccessful and was held on the ground while the two customers were made to lie face down inside the shop.
For Hitnarine, Thursday night began like any other, attending to his small business at his home. By 21:30h it had turned into a nightmare, he says he will never forget.
“I was inside the shop when I first heard footsteps outside,” Hitnarine recalled, his voice still trembling. “At first, I thought it was a customer or someone coming to deliver something. Then suddenly, the door burst open. Two men, both masked, came inside, and one had a gun pointed straight at me.”
Hitnarine described the moments that followed as a blur. The intruders, he said, moved quickly and efficiently; they ransacked the shop but were unable to gain entry to his private dwelling.
“They grabbed everything from the cash register… everything they could carry… It felt like they were everywhere at once, but it was probably only a few minutes. Minutes that felt like hours,” he said. According to the businessman, a customer approached and distracted the bandit, who had instructed that he lie face down and was standing on his hands.
Hitnarine said he seized the opportunity and escaped.
He explained that he was able to find empty beer bottles outside the shop and used them as a form of attack.
“The bottle fly and go straight inside the shop where he hold down dem two boys, then he fired two shot at me, but none didn’t catch me, and then he tell the other two for them to go, and they run and jump over the fence and gone.”
He immediately called the Police, who arrived swiftly at the scene. Officers noted signs of forced entry and began collecting evidence, including fingerprints and other forensic material. CCTV footage from nearby businesses is also being reviewed in hopes of identify-
ing the suspects.
The men escaped with in excess of $100,000 from Hitnarine and $48,000 from one of the customers.
This isn’t the first time he has had an encounter with bandits. About two years ago, Hitnarine was beaten when bandits invaded his home as they demanded valuables, including jewellery and cash. He lost teeth during that attack. To date, no one has been held accountable for that attack.
Meanwhile, Hitnarine said he plans to install stronger security measures to prevent a repeat of Thursday night’s ordeal. “I want to feel safe again, but for now, I just keep hoping the Police catch these men. And I hope no one else has to go through what I went through.”
Police are continuing their investigation.
“It will become operationalised before the end of the first quarter in 2026. As I speak to you, the administrative, legal and regulatory framework is being crafted. The bank will be dynamically integrated with the commercial banks to leverage and unlock capital,” he noted. The bank, the President added, will have no collateral requirement and zero per cent interest on loans up to a predetermined value to be announced in Budget 2026.
“The bank will focus heavily on the agriculture sector, the tourism sector, services sector and any sector, any activity that deals with value creation. This, of course, will lead to the creation of thousands of business opportunities, tens of thousands of business opportunities,” the President noted.
Additionally, he said the Government will soon announce a special initiative through the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security that will convert more than 1000 women, who were trained under the Women’s Innovation & Investment Network (WIIN) programme, entrepreneurs.
GGMC cracks down on illegal mining at Ireng
…equipment seized, several foreigners arrested
The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) has launched a joint-agency operation in the Ireng, Region Nine (Upper TakatuUpper Essequibo) area targeting illegal mining activities, Commissioner Newell Dennison announced.
According to Dennison, several unauthorised mining sites were identified during the operation, resulting in the detention of equipment and minerals in accordance with established regulations. Several non-nationals were also arrested, with further recommendations for charges expected where appropriate.
“These joint operations will continue as part of the broader effort to reduce noncompliance in the mining sector,” Dennison stated.
The GGMC also expressed concern over attempts by some political parties to exploit the situation for their own purposes. The commission emphasised that enforcement activities are strictly guided by law, established procedures, and the national interest, and it
rejects any efforts to politicise these actions.
The Government, he added, has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing illegal mining firmly and without exception. Relevant agencies remain actively engaged to ensure that laws are upheld, offenders are held accountable, and mining operations across the country comply with regulations designed to safeguard the sector and national interests.
Earlier this month, a Brazilian national was arrested in the Iwokrama Protected Area as authorities continue targeted operations to stem illegal gold mining in the highly sensitive forest reserve.
The arrest was made on November 1, during a joint enforcement operation involving the Iwokrama International Centre, GGMC, the Guyana Police Force and Iwokrama Rangers.
The suspect has been identified as Flaviano Teixiera-Costa. During the operation, several other miners escaped into the
forest. However, passports and other personal documents recovered at the site indicated that at least four other Brazilian nationals have been participating in the illegal mining activity. They have been named as Jailson Ferreira Lima, Iago Silva Alves, Jose Antonio Rodrigues Dos Santos, and Jose Do Santos Silvino.
According to Iwokrama, Silvino was previously apprehended during a separate operation in the protected area on October 8. Investigators believe the men entered Guyana under the guise of tourism before travelling into the rainforest with the intention of conducting illegal gold mining.
The Iwokrama International Centre has reiterated that mining is strictly prohibited within the protected area under the Iwokrama Act of 1996. The organisation emphasised that illegal mining threatens ecological systems, affects the livelihoods of local communities and undermines national forest management efforts.
File photo: An illegal mining operation found within the protected Iwokrama rainforest
Businessman Satram Hitnarine
The shop that was robbed Thursday
War…
…of words?
On the domestic front – such as THAT is!! – there doesn’t seem much going on in the political arena –such as THAT is!! – by Opposition politicians!! Now while some folks – most? – might see this as a happy state of affairs, your Eyewitness is getting antsy since there ain’t much grist for his mill – which gotta be kept grinding 24/7!! Words like “front” and “arena” were taken from warfare and used in politics for a reason, no?? Seems like the muchtouted fireworks that were expected after the shock results of September 1 became a damp squib!!
All that your Eyewitness is hearing are snide sniping from the Opposition camps at the PPP government – on all sorts of irrelevancies. Really…do we want to have all these political armchair legal “scholars” – who’ve never set foot in a law school, much less a law court!! – debating the intricacies of the 1931 Extradition Treaty between Great Britain and the US?? Your Eyewitness is pretty sure that Sanction Man – who’s got the extradition bullseye on HIS back – will take the matter to the courts, where the matter will be thrashed out!! What’s the point of opposition spinning wheels now??!
Shouldn’t they – especially the PNC – be pressing the flesh, kissing babies and doing whatever it takes in the electoral demographic – the Scrapes – they lost to WIN? OK… OK… Some say it was money that attracted them over – but surely Sanction Man can’t still be shelling out those Green Grangers to the 110,000 Scrapes he inveigled over!! Now’s the time for PNC leaders to get their attention – especially Chicken Man, who might be able to promise a “chicken wing” to every WIN supporter who returns “home”!!
But in this “war of words” one of the most vociferous is Sanction Man’s sister, Hana Hanalalla – who thinks she can “talk fat” ‘cause she’s a (naturalised) US citizen!! Sometime back, VP Jagdeo had pointed out, “Notice his sister and brother-in-law didn’t give up their US citizenship; they’re not on the list. They’re every day in the media running all kinds of commentary, cussing everybody under the sun, but they don’t want to run afoul of the US… Poor, unsuspecting people now would face the consequences…” Your Eyewitness wonders what ICE might have in store for her if she steps on American soil again!!
She clearly doesn’t appreciate she ain’t doing Sanction Man no favours since her verbosity merely accentuates his inarticulateness!! Scrapes are asking whether “Jaguar got his tongue!!” Hana Hanalala clearly got a huge, narcissistic ego that blocks any form of empathy!! In a recent social media post, she posed in front of some farrin skyscrapers and boasted, “This same “lil girl” has the archaic and the hyper-juveniles in perpetual disarray”!!
Who’s the candidate??
…break??
Looks like the Yanks are getting ready for war in Venezuela. They’ve now officially launched “Operation Southern Spear”, which “defends our Homeland, removes narco-terrorists from our Hemisphere, and secures our Homeland from the drugs that are killing our people. The Western Hemisphere is America’s neighbourhood – and we will protect it”!! In addition to the Ford – which has arrived – the Bush has been on exercises off Florida for several days now. Theoretically, the Truman could also be deployed (it returned from naval exercises a month and a half ago) and be joined by the Nimitz heading west across the Pacific Ocean and the Roosevelt – currently off the coast of California.
The last two (Nimitz and Roosevelt) could form a second carrier force off the coast of Colombia, and these combined forces could be assembled as early as the end of November. It’ll include 150,000 military personnel, 1000 aircraft and several dozen ships.
Enough to take out the Venezuelan forces and outfit Mad Maduro in an orange jumpsuit!!
…winding down?
From a totally Guycentric perspective, it’s in our interest that the Ukraine war be prolonged. Russia won’t then be in a position to supply weapons and missiles to their Venezuelan ally – as the latter has requested.
The views expressed in this column are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Guyana Times’
Illegal Robb St daycare shut down by public health officials
Aday care operating illegally on Robb Street has been shut down by the City Public Health Department following the discovery of multiple health and safety violations. The facility, reportedly operated by a Cuban national, housed approximately seven children in what officials described as “atrocious” and unsafe conditions.
Medical Officer of Health, Dr Suzette Reynolds-Marcus, and Chief Environmental Health Officer, Abiola Baker, conducted the inspection on Friday, November 14, after receiving reports of an unregistered day care operating within a cramped residential apartment.
During the visit, the team
tions by the Guyana Fire Service and GPL.
Whereas, the Robb Street operation had fulfilled none of these requirements and was functioning as an unregulated home-based setup, outside the law.
Conditions “atrocious” and unsafe
According to Dr Reynolds-Marcus, the environment inside the illegal day care was deeply concerning.
“The hygienic conditions were atrocious: wastewater was running through the alley leading to the apartment, which was extremely cramped. There were no visible toilet facilities available for the children.”
She further reported that
identified several breaches of public health, safety, and operational standards required for childcare services in Georgetown. As a result, the facility was ordered closed with immediate effect.
Dr Reynolds-Marcus stated that there are basic guidelines in which day care facilities must be properly registered and compliant with mandatory regulations before they are allowed to operate.
According to the Medical Officer, legal day care operations require registration with the City Public Health Department and the Childcare and Protection Agency, along with inspec-
the kitchen area posed significant dangers.
“As we arrived, something was actively boiling on the stove. That is a serious burn hazard for children. There were also no separate beds – imagine seven children cramped onto one bed for long hours, with nothing to do but watch television. No recreation, no space to move, concrete floors, and no safe outdoor area.”
She added, “Our involvement is to shut the system down – shut the operation down. Today was their last day operating in that manner,” she said. “We will conduct follow-up monitoring to ensure compliance. A writ-
ten notice outlining the infractions will be served to the operator, instructing them to cease operations immediately.”
When asked whether children were found with medical issues, she noted that no specific health hazards, such as improper medication, were identified.
“It was just general untidiness; the aim today was to stop the operation, not to determine whether the children were healthy or unhealthy.”
The City Public Health Department is urging parents to ensure that any day care they use is legally registered, inspected, and compliant with all childcare and safety regulations.
Walkway area to the day care
Unsafe conditions at the day care
A section of the living space where the kids were housed
No link between Gas Station, GPL & Police outpost bombings – Top Cop
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has stated that the October 26 bombing at the Mobil Gas Station in Georgetown is not connected to the earlier explosions at the East Ruimveldt Police Outpost and the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) substation on Mandela Avenue, Georgetown, in May.
This was disclosed on Friday by Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken when asked by the media during the launch of the Christmas Policing Plan.
“Based on our investigation, there is no motive that would point us to the collaboration of the others,” he said.
On May 17, there was an explosion at the East Ruimveldt Police Outpost, located at Vlissengen Square and East Front Road. It was reported that there was a loud explosion originating from the southern side. A Police officer on duty at the time reported that he heard two distinct blasts followed by debris impacting nearby rooftops.
On inspection, it was discovered that the southern wall of the concrete structure had been significantly damaged. The Crime Scene Unit later confirmed that the metal gate on the south-
ern perimeter was completely blown away, and other parts of the outpost sustained structural damage.
In May, 35-year-old Seon Carmichael, a minibus driver of Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara, was remanded to prison after being charged with facilitating two acts of terrorism linked to recent bombings at the East Ruimveldt Police Outpost and a GPL substation. Police had issued wanted bulletins for three suspects in the case, two Venezuelan nationals and a Brazilian man known only
as “Flavio Tasso”. They have not been arrested to date. Investigators had said that the men were captured on surveillance cameras near both blast sites and are believed to have orchestrated the attacks, which caused panic in the capital and raised national security concerns.
Meanwhile, with regard to the Mobil Gas Station bombing, which left sixyear-old Soraya Bourne injured, several persons have been charged, including the alleged mastermind, 33-year-old Venezuelan national Daniel Alexander Ramirez Poedemo.
Along with Poedemo,
44-year-old Alexander Bettencourt, 27-year-old Johnny Boodram, and 33-year-old Krystal LaCruz were also charged for the act.
Meanwhile, the three others charged separately were Wayne Corriea, Ramesh Pramdeo, and Jennifer Rodriguez.
The aftermath of the explosion at the East Ruimveldt Police Outpost and the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Substation
Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken
The scene of the bombing at the Mobil Gas Station
2 accidents leave 2 dead
Police are investigating two separate fatal accidents that occurred on Thursday in Regional Divisions Four “A”, Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) and Nine (Upper TakatuUpper Essequibo).
In Georgetown, 69-yearold pedal cyclist Lennox George Benjamin of
moved forward into the intersection and began turning south onto Vlissengen Road. During the turn, the left rear portion of the vehicle struck Benjamin, causing him to fall and sustain multiple injuries.
Emergency personnel responded, but Benjamin was pronounced dead by a doc-
St Ignatius Village, and a Brazil-registered pickup, OAA 8G45, driven by a 46-year-old Brazilian national of Central Lethem.
According to Police, the motorcycle was travelling west along the southern carriageway, while the pickup was heading north on the western side of the road.
Prashad Nagar died following a collision at the intersection of Lamaha Street and Vlissengen Road around 13:15h.
Police reported that a motor lorry, GAH 5884, driven by a 33-year-old Long Creek resident, was stationary on the southern lane of Lamaha Street, facing west, due to a red traffic signal. Benjamin was riding west along the southern side of the roadway, on the left of the lorry.
When the traffic light turned green, the lorry
tor shortly after. His body was taken to Memorial Gardens Funeral Home for a post-mortem examination. The lorry driver is in custody as the investigation continues, Police said.
Meanwhile in Lethem, Police in Regional Division Nine are probing a fatal crash that occurred around 13:00h on the Barrack Retreat Corridor.
The accident involved a Brazil-registered motorcycle, PYP 7J16, ridden by 22-year-old Barth Paul of
The vehicles collided at the junction where their paths met, causing Paul to fall and suffer severe injuries to his head and body.
He was transported to the Lethem Regional Hospital by emergency medical technicians and was pronounced dead on arrival.
His body is being held at the hospital mortuary pending a post-mortem examination. The pickup driver is in custody.
An investigation has been launched.
7
drivers
fined
$700,000
for stopping on BJ Demerara River Bridge
Traffic Chief Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Singh has announced that drivers who stop their vehicles on the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge will be fined $100,000, and already, seven persons have been penalised.
“Already seven persons would have had to pay. Take note that the bylaws that govern the use of that bridge give the general manager powers beyond the police to ensure you are fined,” he explained.
He also explained that the vehicles could get impounded, and drivers/own-
ers would also have to pay another fee to get them released.
In October, shortly after the newly commissioned US$262 million bridge was opened, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) began stepping up its presence on the bridge as part of a clampdown on reckless driving, speeding, and other traffic offences.
Several instances of lawless and reckless driving on the bridge were recorded, prompting the GPF to act decisively. Traffic Chief, Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Singh, had said officers will adopt a zero-tolerance approach to traffic
Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge
69-year-old pedal cyclist Lennox George Benjamin died in the accident on Lamaha Street and Vlissengen Road (Joseph Allen photo)
The fatal accident in Lethem (Rupununi News Online photo)
Smugglers
allegedly ambush GRA
officers; take away seized vessel with contraband goods
Several officers from the Law Enforcement and Investigation Division (LEID) of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) were reportedly attacked by alleged smugglers during an intelligence-driven enforcement operation in the vicinity of No. 61 Village, Corentyne Berbice, on Thursday.
The authority, in a release, stated that during an operation, officers intercepted a large wooden motor vessel transporting a large quantity of contraband goods, including alcoholic beverages. As such, the goods were seized, and several persons who were on board were arrested.
However, while the vessel and its contents were being escorted to a designated facility for processing, the officers were ambushed by a group of men who forceful-
ly retrieved the vessel and seized the items.
Through swift collaboration with the Guyana Police Force and the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit, four of the perpetrators were arrested while efforts were underway to locate the vessel and its contents.
The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) is reminding the public of its “zero tolerance” approach to smuggling, and anyone who attempts to import or export goods with the intent to defraud the Revenue Authority of any duties is guilty of an offence and is liable to penalties and/or imprisonment.
In addition, the GRA is pleading with the public to report any illicit, unlawful or smuggling activities on telephone number 227-6060, extensions 3201, 3204, 3205, 3206, 3211,
Transformer
3212, or 3408.
Four years ago, two GRA officers came under fire during an anti-smuggling operation at Mahaica, East Coast Demerara (ECD). It was reported that one of the officers was shot to the face, and the other was shot in the abdomen.
The GRA had reported that during a night operation along with police ranks, it attempted to intercept a vessel owned by a well-known suspect which was allegedly transporting smuggled goods in the Mahaica River.
However, as they moved in, they came under high-powered and spotlighted gunfire from the suspect’s property and vessel. The suspect, Harrielall Motilall, called “Jinga Harry”, had later stated that he had nothing to do with the shooting incident.
overload,
Police have seize 100 illegal guns so far for this year
One hundred illegal firearms have been taken off the streets so far this year, according to Crime Chief Deputy Commissioner Wendell Blanhum.
This is compared to 178 that were confiscated during the same period last year
internal fault trigger power outage
The Guyana Power and Light Inc (GPL) has clarified reports circulating on social media regarding an electrical incident at GuyExpo on Thursday. Reports are that at about 18:00h, power was interrupted to approximately 15 booths on the tarmac of the Exhibition Centre. GPL’s technical team responded
immediately and discovered that a 50 Kilovolt-Ampere (KVA) transformer serving the area had burnt out. The team determined that the transformer failed due to overloading.
According to the power company, a replacement 100 KVA transformer was installed, but it also sustained damage when connected to
at GuyExpo – GPL
the circuit. Further inspection revealed that the root cause of the issue was an internal electrical fault within the Exhibition Centre’s network.
To restore power, a section of the internal network was isolated, and a new 75 kVA transformer was installed. Power was fully restored to the affected booths
by 20:15h.
GPL, in a statement on Friday, emphasised that the incident was caused by a surge in load demand and the internal fault and was not a failure of the wider GPL network. GuyExpo, themed “Transformation Through Entrepreneurship and Innovation”, was opened on Friday night at the National Exhibition Centre, Sophia. The event, scheduled for November 13–16, 2025, is featuring over 290 booths with exhibitors.
(January 1 – November 9).
Of the 100 illegal guns seized this year, 57 were pistols, 29 were shotguns, 12 were revolvers and two were rifles.
Based on investigations, of the illegal firearms seized, most of them originated from the United States (US) and Brazil. According to Blanhum, 16 came from the US and 16 came from Brazil.
Additionally, he said seven each originated from Austria and Italy, while five came from Venezuela and three each from Turkey, Belgium and the Czech Republic.
One of them originated from Germany, while seven came from locations unknown. Moreover, he said one was an improvised weapon, while the Guyana Police Force (GPF) is awaiting verifications on the remaining 31.
Just a few weeks ago, Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond spoke about the need to ramp up efforts to get illegal guns off the streets. In fact, she had disclosed that discussions
are ongoing with stakeholders to better address this problem, including examining the possibility of offering another amnesty programme.
In addition to illegal guns, the Minister had noted that authorities were looking into limiting the number of licensed firearms in circulation. There are over 30,000 applications in the system for firearm licences, but Minister Walrond had expressed that “the need to walk with a firearm every day, all day, to protect yourselves, may not necessarily hold any muster any more as serious crime goes down.”
In fact, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo previously expressed that “just imagine if you have to give out 50,000 gun licences in Guyana, what could happen? And often the weapons end up in the hands of criminals because they come into our home and they take the weapons, etc.”
In this regard, the Government is exploring the option of issuing licences for nonlethal weapons.
Serious crime down by 25.1% – Crime Chief
…says overall reduction in crime does not eclipse troubling rise in homicides
Despite Guyana recording its lowest serious crime figures in a decade, Guyana has seen a worrying rise in murders – up by 13.9 per cent for the year. This was revealed by Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum during the launch of the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) Christmas Policing Plan 2025, held on Friday morning. Blanhum, who delivered his address virtually due to the recent passing of his mother, said the Force remains committed to accountability and data-driven policing as it heads into the festive period.
He told the gathering of senior officers, regional commanders, private security representatives, the media, and members of the business community that the GPF has made “significant strides” in suppressing crime, even as certain categories remain areas of concern.
“As we approach the festive season, the Guyana
Police Force reaffirms its commitment to upholding the highest standards of policing as we seek to serve and protect all citizens of this great nation,” he said. He noted that serious crime continues its steady decline, dropping from 1017 reports last year to 801 in 2025, a reduction of 269 cases, representing a 25.1 per cent decrease.
However, the Crime Chief warned that the overall reduction in crime does not overshadow the troubling rise in homicides. Domestic murders, in particular, doubled this year, from 13 cases in 2024 to 26 in 2025, marking one of the most significant spikes in recent years. Over the last five years, Blanhum said, disorderly murders have consistently outnumbered other categories, but the surge in domestic killings has added a new layer of urgency to the GPF’s work.
Region Four “A” (Georgetown) recorded the
highest number of murders this year, with 24 cases, while Region Two saw the lowest, with two murders during the same period.
Blanhum also detailed the geographic distribution of crime, explaining that Region Four “A” continues to carry the largest burden of reported offences. The region accounted for nearly a quarter of all serious crime this year, a trend he attributed to its status as the country’s main commercial hub. Regions Three and
Four “B” followed, while Regions Eight, Five, and Seven recorded the lowest levels of serious crime.
In his review of longterm data, Blanhum said that robberies of all categories have steadily declined over the last decade, with 2025 registering the lowest figure in ten years. Robberies involving firearms remained the most common form of armed attack this year, and temporal analysis revealed that most occurred between 18:00h
and midnight. He said this information proved crucial in shaping the Force’s response. “Our resources were deployed optimally during those peak hours, resulting in 63 fewer reported attacks when compared to last year,” he explained.
The Crime Chief said break-and-enter and larceny continued to be the most prevalent offences nationally, although 2025 still recorded the smallest number of such cases in a decade. Reports of human trafficking also dropped to their lowest point in ten years, with 13 cases recorded and two matters already before the courts.
Guyana, he added, has maintained its Tier One ranking for compliance with international anti-trafficking standards due to continued collaboration with both local and overseas agencies.
Law enforcement efforts were also intensified in the area of narcotics. Blanhum disclosed that the Police
Force seized 233 kilograms (kg) of cocaine this year, a dramatic increase from the six kg intercepted in 2024. The GPF also destroyed 208 acres of cannabis farms and charged 244 persons for marijuana-related offences, along with 58 persons for cocaine possession. He emphasised that Guyana remains a known transhipment point for cocaine and said the GPF has expanded its operations at checkpoints and strategic choke points to intercept drug networks.
Blanhum did not shy away from addressing misconduct within the Force. He revealed that 15 Police ranks were charged this year with serious criminal offences, including murder, rape, robbery under arms, and robbery with aggravation. He said the GPF remains committed to rooting out corruption and holding its members to the highest standards of professional conduct.
Most fatal accidents caused by speeding – GPF as it rolls out holiday traffic plan
As the holiday season brings more traffic to Guyana’s roads, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) is urging drivers to slow down, warning that speeding is behind the majority of fatal accidents this year. Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh, Traffic Chief, revealed that “Speeding alone has accounted for more than at least 85 of our fatal accidents for 2025,” with 49 motorcyclists, 25 pedestrians, 15 drivers, and seven vehicle occupants already losing their lives on local roads.
Singh emphasised the importance of personal responsibility, stating that “Personal responsibility again… It’s all of us in the same equation.” He warned drivers to “Be more aware. Make yourselves more aware with your surroundings… Do not drive in any manner dangerous to other road users.”
To address the increased holiday movement, the police have rolled out an extensive traffic management plan from November 15, 2025, to January 15, 2026. The strategy includes sector-based patrols, fixedpoint monitoring, roving motorcycle patrols, CCTV support via command centres, and staggered enforcement teams.
Singh explained, “Each region will be divided into sectors to improve effective service delivery. Smaller spans of control, greater effectiveness in terms of con-
trol.”
Authorities are also leveraging technology to enhance road safety. The Safe Road Intelligence System (SRIS), operational since April, and body-worn cameras will help monitor traffic violations and guide rapid police responses. Singh noted that these measures, combined with public awareness campaigns and collaboration with private stakeholders, aim to reduce accidents and ensure the smooth movement of people and goods. Traffic Chief Singh highlighted common risk factors contributing to accidents, including “axle loads, loss of control, poorly maintained vehicles… and the careless use by motorcyclists.” He urged road users to plan trips, use public transportation when possi-
ble, and avoid single-vehicle occupancy on busy roads.
For motorists, Singh offered practical tips, including driving below the posted speed limits when conditions demand, using designated parking areas, and designating a sober driver for group travel. He also stressed that bars and servers are liable under the Intoxicated Liquor Licence Act and warned, “Once reported to us, we will take the action.” This year, traffic authorities have issued more than 47,000 tickets, executed 717 warrants, and charged 1,428 individuals with driving under the influence (DUI), demonstrating an aggressive approach to maintaining road safety during the festive season. Singh concluded with a cautionary note: “Assign fo-
cus on your personal safety as well as others using the road, similar to the focus
you place on your asset… Go a little slower, live, and you will have the cash grant as
well, rather than not being here.”
Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum
Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh, Traffic Chief
Presidential walkabout
As President Ali launched GuyExpo2025, he later toured the many booths and interacted with patrons and business owners on Thursday, November 13 (President Ali’s Official Facebook page photos)
GMSA hosts 1st GuyExpo feature with launch of local consortium, Barama re-certification
The Guyana Manufacturing & Services Association (GMSA) proudly hosted its first official presentation at GuyExpo 2025, highlighting the organisation’s leadership in strengthening local supply chains and showcasing excellence across the agriculture, forestry, and construction sectors. This year’s feature presentation spotlighted two major milestones: the official launch of the AHS Group, a newly formed housing consortium, and the re-certification of Barama Company Ltd under the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) “Made in Guyana” mark. According to the GMSA, throughout the event, speakers underscored key themes of collaboration, innovation and sector-wide growth. President of the GMSA, Rafeek Khan,
highlighted the significance of international companies joining the GMSA pavilion this year, noting their presence demonstrates global interest in Guyana’s manufacturing and services sectors.
Local consortium
The AHS Group brings together three distinguished local companies: MEP Engineering Services Inc., Correia & Correia Ltd, and Durable Wood Products, in a powerful partnership aimed at transforming Guyana’s residential construction landscape. At the heart of the initiative is the Sebrex System, an advanced, factory-engineered, panelised modular housing solution. This innovation enables the rapid construction of affordable housing with speed, precision, and predictable cost,
while maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and sustainability.
Through this partnership, AHS Group aims to strengthen local supply chains, expand job creation, and promote sustainable development aligned with the Government of Guyana’s vision for modernised and inclusive housing solutions.
Representing AHS Group, Dr Natasha GaskinPeters emphasised the consortium’s alignment with the Government of Guyana’s call for greater collaboration among local companies. She encouraged local businesses to move away from isolated operations and instead embrace strategic partnerships as a pathway to growth and global competitiveness.
Commissioner of Forests of the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC), Edward
Education Ministry launches review of school feeding programme
The Education Ministry has launched a review of the National School Feeding Programme to ensure that it meets the nutritional needs of students and continues to benefit schoolchildren and their families across the country.
Education Minister Sonia Parag said she initiated the review shortly after assuming office in September. “I had a sit-down with the School Feeding Unit to ascertain the daily operations
of the programme and how we can improve it to create the impact that we want,” she stated.
As part of the review, the Ministry is collaborating with the Carnegie School of Home Economics to assess the programme’s menu and enhance its nutritional value. The Ministry also confirmed that complaints received from the public and via social media will be investigated and addressed promptly and fairly.
Parag emphasised that the Ministry is prepared to work with providers who meet established standards, stressing that there will be no compromise when it comes to the health and well-being of children. Headteachers have been reminded of their responsibility to report any issues with the programme immediately and to serve as an additional layer of supervision to ensure its continued success.
Goberdhan, praised the use of local wood species, noting the significant opportunities this creates in employment and upstream economic activity. He acknowledged the challenges within the value-added sub-sector but expressed optimism about the consortium and Barama Company Limited’s work. A live demonstration is currently featured at GuyExpo 2025, where visitors can explore a fully constructed modular home located next to the GMSA Pavilion. Guests will experience first-
Company Ltd, Mohindra Chand, commended the GNBS for its professionalism and noted that over the past three years, Barama invested more than one billion dollars, resulting in a 70 per cent increase in production, growth in employment and expanded capacity. Chand reaffirmed Barama’s commitment to developing new products for the local and international markets while encouraging other wood manufacturers to pursue the certification.
Executive Director of
supporting product development and strengthening collaboration with the private sector. Minister Rodrigues stated that the Government remains accessible and responsive, continually working alongside industry to find solutions and create an enabling environment for sustainable growth. In addition to Barama & AHS Group’s accomplishments, two other companies formed an alliance in bringing together technology for plant tissue production for both agriculture and ornamental plants.
hand how this innovation is redefining construction possibilities in Guyana.
Re-certification of Made in Guyana mark
During the event, GMSA and the GNBS recognised Barama Company Ltd, a longstanding leader in the forestry sector, with the official re-certification of its “Made in Guyana” mark. Barama was the first company within the timber industry to be granted rights by the GNBS to use the Approved “Made in Guyana” Mark on its Tropical Hardwood Plywood, including regular, grooved, and water-resistant types, on October 12, 2022. General Manager (GM) of Barama
GNBS, Trevor Bassoo, reminded the audience that it’s not merely a mark, but the certification represents a set of criteria met by only about 60 companies nationwide. Bassoo highlighted the GNBS’s future plans to expand the reach of the “Made in Guyana” mark beyond Guyana’s borders. The re-certification reaffirms Barama’s commitment to quality, responsible manufacturing, and supporting a strong, competitive local forestry industry.
Delivering the keynote address, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Hon. Susan Rodrigues reaffirmed Government’s commitment to fostering investment,
These companies showcased and presented a shade house in the backyard for homeowners to produce and deliver to their kitchen. The event concluded with the official handover of the “Made in Guyana” Certificate to Barama Company Ltd, a ceremonial ribbon cutting for the AHS Group’s modular home and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Modern Agri (Guyana) and Invitroplants Grassalco NV (Suriname). The MOU sets the stage for joint work in plant tissue culture, biotechnology, and agricultural development that aims to benefit both sides of the border.
An AHS Sebrex System home on display at GuyExpo2025
The ceremonial ribbon-cutting for the AHS Group’s modular home
GMSA and the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) recognised Barama Company Ltd with its official re-certification
NOVEMBER 15, 2025|
Waste collection falls from 50 bags to 2 in one week at Stabroek – Local Govt Minister
Official progress has been swift at the revitalised Stabroek Market Square, according to Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand, who provided a detailed update on the area’s transformation.
Manickchand reported that garbage levels have significantly decreased since new waste-management systems were introduced earlier this week.
She detailed the rapid decline in waste collected; before the bins were installed, cleanup crews had collected 50 extra-large bags of garbage on Sunday.
By Wednesday, that number fell to five bags, and on Friday morning only two bags were collected – the bins are being emptied twice daily as they continue to fill up regularly.
Manickchand attributed the improvement to increased public participation.
She explained that a wider cross-section of people have begun using the
bins, including passersby, vendors, commuters and vagrants.
This shift, she noted, signals that “Guyanese want a cleaner, more orderly country,” adding that the progress marks the beginning of a renewed culture of responsibility at Stabroek Square. The Minister said the Government’s key performance indicators reflect that the initiative is working and that the transformation extends beyond waste management.
She highlighted that beautification efforts are already underway, noting that festive decorations will soon illuminate the area for the Christmas season. According to her, the goal is to reshape the environment into a space that fosters culture, unity, and tradition. She stated that visitors can expect a stunning display behind the market during the holidays – not “Times Square”, she clarified, but a renewed “Stabroek Square”, restored to its identity and charm. Officials
from the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development in October began a citywide clean-up campaign in keeping with the Government’s national beautification project.
Leading the initiative were Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand, Minister
Young motorcyclist dies in NA crash
CCTV footage contradicts driver’s story
…allegedly shows driver making illegal U-turn
New evidence has unfolded as Police investigate the death of a 22-year-old motorcyclist who was part of a crash on Thursday afternoon in Stanleytown, New Amsterdam, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).
Police had initially stated that 22-year-old Daniel North, of Islington, Greater New Amsterdam, who was riding motorcycle CP 1385, emerged from an access road on the western side of Stanleytown Public Road and collided with the left front side of a car, PLL 6600, which was being driven at the time by a 56-yearold man from Lancaster Village, Corentyne.
The Police information came from the driver.
Law enforcement officers have since obtained video evidence, and according to a Senior Police source, the footage clearly shows the car initiating a U-turn across the roadway at the very moment the young motorcyclist was approaching. With little time or space to react, North slammed directly into the car; the impact sending him flying through the air. Police say the force of the impact pitched him approximately 23 metres from the point of collision.
Reports are that he landed head-first in a trench, and witnesses who rushed to his aid pulled him out roughly two minutes later. Despite efforts to save him, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after being transported to the hospital.
The new evidence has significantly shifted the direction of the investigation.
North, who worked offshore, was home for 28 days during which time he was involved in block making.
He leaves his parents and four siblings to mourn.
within the Ministry Pauline Sukhai, Director General Anand Persaud, Permanent Secretary (PS) Miguel Choo-Kang, and Deputy PS (Administration) Dr Josh Kanhai, along with senior officials of the Ministry. In fact, the Local Government and Regional Development Ministry on Monday eve-
ning launched its community-focused “Going Forward” initiative at the Stabroek Market Square, introducing a cleaner, more organised environment through the strategic placement of garbage bins at 40-foot intervals across the busy commercial area.
The installation of bins stretches from Brickdam Street, starting at the Head of Avenue of the Republic, down to Stabroek Stelling; continues along Lombard Street in the vicinity of the market; extends along Water Street from Stabroek Market up to America Street; and runs alongside the perimeter of the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security.
To maintain a clean environment, garbage collection will take place twice daily, between 13:00h and 15:00h, and again between 16:00h and 18:00h. These targeted collection windows are designed to align with market hours and waste build-up patterns, ensuring that the surroundings
remain clean and accessible for vendors, customers, and passers-by. The Local Government and Regional Development Minister, Priya Manickchand, emphasised that the Ministry’s approach is one rooted in partnership rather than punishment at this stage. She stated that at this point, enforcement will not be the immediate focus.
Instead, the Ministry will engage with citizens to promote behavioural change and civic responsibility. Monday’s community-centred engagement was led by Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand. She underscored that Stabroek Market is not only a commercial hub but also a living symbol of the nation’s culture, history, and resilience. The vendors who earn their livelihood there are a vital part of the city, and their cooperation is essential to sustaining a thriving and environmentally healthy market environment.
Bee invasion disrupts classes at Tutorial Academy Secondary School
Students and teachers of the Tutorial Academy Secondary School (TASS) in New Amsterdam were forced to abandon classes on Friday morning after a swarm of Africanised bees invaded the compound. The bees, which reportedly settled in the school’s science laboratory overnight, became active when students arrived for classes.
This publication understands that some students may have disturbed the hive, triggering the swarm.
Students turned up for classes as normal on Friday morning at TASS, but the start of the school day quickly descended into panic when a swarm of Africanised bees was discovered in the science laboratory.
According to information reaching this publication, the bees had reportedly established themselves overnight. When two female students noticed the hive in the lab, they allegedly attempted to destroy it using an object. This caused the bees to become aggressive and swarm sections of the building and the surrounding compound.
Teachers immediately instructed students to evacuate the building, and all pupils were subsequently sent home. Moments later, teachers were observed also leaving the premises.
Up to news time, there were no reports of anyone being injured.
Several parents called this publication saying that they were told by their children about the situation.
Worrying is the fact that for close to an hour after the initial alarm was raised, students were not allowed to leave. The children were eventually sent home shortly after 09:30h.
Africanised bees are a hybrid of the western honey bees and commonly known as “killer bees”. They are far more defensive than regular honeybees. When disturbed, they attack in large numbers and can deliver multiple stings, posing serious danger, especially to children, the elderly, and anyone with allergic reactions. Even a single disturbance, such as noise, vibration, or an attempt to break a hive, can trigger an aggressive swarm.
Experts say that during the month of November, bees are often more visible and active across Guyana due to changes in weather patterns associated with the short rainy season. Increased humidity and fluctuating temperatures encourage swarming and
the movement of colonies searching for new nesting sites, sometimes ending up in homes, businesses, and, as seen on Friday, schools. Friday morning’s scare is not an isolated incident. Over the years, several schools across the country have faced similar disruptions. In 2015, a nursery school in Sophia was forced to dismiss children after a swarm of bees took over the washroom area. In 2017, the Anna Regina Multilateral Secondary on the Essequibo Coast had to be temporarily vacated when Africanised bees entered the main building. And in January 2023, Tutorial Academy Secondary itself suspended classes after several students were attacked by a swarm that settled near the classrooms. More recently, in late 2024, the New Amsterdam Multilateral School experienced repeated infestations over several days, prompting the removal of multiple colonies from ceilings and classrooms.
Students leaving the school on Friday morning
The car involved in the fatal accident
Police took the driver back to the crash scene as investigations continued
Deceased: Daniel North
Antigua partners with Guyana to lower food costs
Antigua and Barbuda has reached an agreement with Guyana on a new food import initiative that officials say is designed to ease the cost of living by bringing in cheaper fruits, vegetables, and other produce for the local market.
“The aim is to secure cheaper fruits and vegetables and other food items at a cheaper rate. We should see some further reduction in prices once this strategy is implemented,” said Maurice Merchant, the Government’s director general of communications. He noted that Cabinet has instructed Agriculture Minister Anthony Smith Jr to work with his Guyanese counterpart to advance the arrangement.
Merchant said the move follows discussions between Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Guyana’s President
Irfaan Ali during the ongoing COP30 conference in Brazil.
At its weekly meeting,
GRA to appeal "erroneous" pronouncement in Azruddin Mohamed vs GRA civil proceedings
The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) in a Friday press release has signalled its intent to appeal what it calls a “wholly erroneous” pronouncement by Justice Gino Persaud in the civil proceedings in the matter of the Azruddin Mohamed v The Commissioner General & The Revenue Authority litigation.
“In light of the withdrawal of the criminal
charges, the decision of Justice Gino Persaud in the civil proceedings is moot and now of academic importance only except that the Honourable Court did not address itself to the issue of fraud regarding submissions supported with evidence made by the Revenue Authority. The Honourable Court instead proceeded to make an extraordinary pronouncement to the effect that the Revenue Authority
has no power to reassess taxes in the circumstances,” the GRA noted in its statement.
“The Revenue Authority is of the respectful view that this latter pronouncement is wholly erroneous in law and not in line with the relevant provisions of the tax laws of Guyana. In the circumstances, an Appeal will be filed challenging the same,” it added.
Cabinet also agreed to reduce the Common External Tariff (CET) on essen-
tial food items, including fresh produce, canned proteins, and infant foods. The Government recalled that in July 2025, the Caricom Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) approved Antigua and Barbuda’s request to suspend the CET on a range of basic commodities, allowing for a zero per cent duty from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026.
“This measure is intended to cushion the impact of rising global food prices and ensure that Antiguan and Barbudan households continue to have access to affordable staple foods,” the Cabinet statement said.
Nearly 90 per cent of Antigua and Barbuda’s
food imports come from North America, leaving local prices exposed to international market fluctuations. Officials say the partnership with Guyana is intended to diversify the country’s suppliers within Caricom and ensure that consumers directly benefit from reduced import costs. If logistics proceed on schedule, the first shipments could arrive in early 2026.
The agreement is also seen as part of efforts to advance Caricom’s “25 by 2025” goal, which aims to reduce the region’s food import bill by 25 per cent while strengthening agricultural cooperation across the 15-member bloc.
(Excerpt from Caribbean News Weekly)
Regional
BHP liable for 2015 Brazil dam collapse, UK court rules in mammoth lawsuit
The mining compa-
ny BHP is liable for the 2015 collapse of a dam in south eastern Brazil, London's High Court ruled on Friday, in a lawsuit the claimants' lawyers previously valued at up to 36 billion pounds (US$48 billion).
Hundreds of thousands of Brazilians, dozens of local Governments and around 2000 businesses sued BHP over the collapse of the Fundão dam in Mariana, south eastern Brazil, which was owned and op-erated by BHP and Vale's Samarco joint venture.
Brazil's worst environmental disaster unleashed a wave of toxic sludge that killed 19 persons, left thousands homeless, flooded forests and polluted the length of the Doce River.
A separate claim against Vale was filed in Dutch courts in 2024 on behalf of nearly 1000 businesses and more than 77,000 individuals hit by the dam break.
Container barge grounded in The Bahamas looted
Scores of looters in small boats swarmed a stranded container barge Thursday in The Bahamas, hauling away goods in such volume that some joked, “Christmas came early for Abaco” –while others phoned around asking if anyone had a boat to spare.
value of claims in the UK group action," he add-ed.
BHP said it would appeal against the ruling and continue to fight the lawsuit.
BHP's President of Minerals Americas, Brandon Craig, said in a statement that 240,000 claimants in the London lawsuit "have already been paid compensation in Brazil".
"We believe this will significantly reduce the size and
Judge Finola O'Farrell said in her ruling that continuing to raise the height of the dam when it was not safe to do so was the "direct and immediate cause" of the dam's collapse, meaning BHP was liable un-der Brazilian law.
RBC Capital Markets analyst Marina Calero said a final resolution was unlikely before 2030, with sig-nificant uncertainty around which claims would ultimately be considered valid.
Gelvana Rodrigues da Silva, who lost her sevenyear-old son Thiago in the flood, said in a statement, "Finally, justice has begun to be served, and those responsible have been held accountable for destroy-ing our lives." (Excerpt from Reuters)
Trinidad Police launch Operation Festive Shield ahead of Christmas, Carnival season
The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) has rolled out Operation Festive Shield, a comprehen-sive security initiative aimed at protecting citizens, businesses, and visitors throughout the busy Christ-mas 2025 and Carnival 2026 periods.
The operation officially launched Thursday in Port of Spain and the Western Division – areas recog-nised as the country’s main commercial and entertainment hubs. These zones typically experience in-creased crowds and economic activity during the festive months, prompting a heightened security pres-ence. Other divisions across the country are expected to follow in the coming days under the same co-ordinated strategy.
According to the TTPS, Operation Festive Shield will rest on four main pillars – high-visibility policing, intelligence-led operations, traffic and public order management, and stakeholder partnerships with rap-id response capability.
This includes an expanded presence of foot and mobile patrols in shopping districts, transport hubs, and entertainment zones; tar-
geted crackdowns on repeat offenders; coordinated traffic management with municipal Police; and close collaboration with business and community stakeholders.
Priority areas for law enforcement include reducing robberies and street crimes, improving shopper and commuter safety, easing traffic congestion, and ensuring swift response to incidents.
(Excerpt from CNW)
J’ca cops kill four murder suspects in shootout
Alate-night shootout between the Police and gunmen in Rosemount District, St Catherine, ended in bloodshed on Wednesday, leaving four men dead and two illegal guns seized.
Reports are that around 21:40h, lawmen got intelligence that a group of men who had just murdered a man in Guys Hill were heading toward Linstead in a Kia motor car.
The Police moved in to intercept the vehicle, which reportedly matched the description of the murder suspects.
During the operation, the car crashed in the Rosemount area, and the men jumped out and opened fire on the Police team. The cops took cover and returned the fire. When the smoke cleared, four men were found suffering from gunshot wounds,
while another man re-portedly escaped.
The injured men were rushed to the Linstead Hospital, where they were pronounced dead.
The Police say two illegal firearms were recovered from the scene.
The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) has since launched a probe into the inci-dent. (Jamaica Star)
The grounded barge, The Brooklyn Bridge, quickly became the centre of brazen daylight raids, sparking wild scenes as people climbed containers and tossed supplies down to boats waiting below. Videos cap-tured residents shouting, laughing, and transporting away everything from toilet paper and dog food to appliances. One resident described it as a “free-for-all”.
The barge was reportedly being towed by the Southern Dawn from Jacksonville, Florida, to San Juan, Puerto Rico, when its steel line snapped in bad weather, drifting the vessel onto a reef near Nunjack Cay in North Abaco on Wednesday. Residents learnt of the incident early Wednesday and headed out before authorities arrived.
Defence Force and Police officers were later deployed to secure the scene until a replacement tug could return. Stephen Wilson, island
administrator for North Abaco, told The Tribune a second tug was ex-pected to arrive today, Friday.
Wilson condemned the looting but said Police are unlikely to pursue those who took supplies. “It might be illegal, but at the same time they're lightening the weight on the boat,” he said.
He estimated more than 20 boats converged on the barge, saying many people assumed the goods were abandoned. He stressed the cargo had not been left to residents and should not have been taken.
Wilson said the barge held “everything you can
think of”, estimating millions of dollars’ worth of supplies aboard. An insurance representative was also on the vessel yesterday. Images circulating online show piles of dog food, washing machines, rugs, fitness equipment, furniture, and other goods stacked inside opened containers. The Tribune understands vehicles were also onboard but obviously could not have been stolen. Reaction online was divided. Some residents condemned the looting, while others celebrated the haul.
(Source: The Tribune)
Multiple B’dos Government offices close due to environmental, AC issues
Several Barbados Government departments housed in the Warrens Office Complex were forced to close on Friday as environmental and air-conditioning problems continue to disrupt operations.
The Land Registry Department, located on the ground floor, was closed for the remainder of the day due to environmental issues. Officials have not disclosed details but say the department will reopen once conditions allow.
On the first floor, the Ministry of Energy and Business also remained closed as it addresses ongoing air-conditioning problems.
Members of the public seeking liquor licences or assistance from the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) are being redirected to the Trinity Business Centre at Country Road, St Michael.
The Ministry of Labour, Social Security and Third Sector, located on the Third Floor, was also closed because of air-conditioning is-
sues. Staff are working remotely to ensure continuity of service.
However, officials say two key units within the complex – the Labour Department on the Second Floor and the Barbados Employment Career and Counselling Service on the First Floor –remained open.
Authorities are apologising for the inconvenience caused and say further updates will be issued once normal operations resume across the affected offices.
(Source: Barbados Today)
Venezuela’s Maduro urges Trump to avoid Afghanistan-style "forever war"
Venezuela’s authoritarian President, Nicolás Maduro, has urged Donald Trump not to lead the United States (US) into an Afghanistanstyle “forever war”, as the American military buildup in the region in-tensified and Trump’s defence secretary, Pete Hegseth, vowed to purge the Americas of “narco-terrorists”.
Speaking to CNN outside the Miraflores Presidential palace in Venezuela’s capital, Caracas, Maduro called on Trump to make peace, not war, after the world’s
largest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R Ford, arrived in the region.
“No more forever wars. No more unjust wars. No more Libya. No more Afghanistan. Long live peace,” Maduro, 62, declared late on Thursday as he pushed his way through crowds to reach a pro-Government rally.
Hours after the Venezuelan leader spoke, Hegseth sought to pile further pressure on Venezuela’s leader, announcing what he called Operation Southern Spear.
“The Western Hemisphere is America’s neighbourhood – and we will protect it,” Hegseth tweeted. He said the Southern Command mission would defend “our homeland” and secure it from “the drugs that are killing our people”.
CBS News reported this week that senior military officials had handed Trump “options for potential operations in Venezuela, including strikes on land”, although two sources insisted no final decision had been made. (Excerpt from The Guardian)
The debris of the municipal school of the Bento Rodrigues district, which was covered with mud after a dam owned by Vale SA and BHP Billiton Ltd burst, is pictured in Mariana, Brazil, on November 10, 2015
Scores of boats were tied up alongside the stranded container barge, raiding the vessel of its cargo in North Abaco on November 13, 2025
OIL NEWS
Oil rises more than 2% as Russian port suspends oil exports after Ukrainian attack
Oil prices increased by more than two per cent on Friday as Russia's port of Novorossiisk halted oil exports following a Ukrainian drone attack that hit an oil depot in the Russian energy hub, stoking supply concerns.
Brent crude futures were up US$1.45, or 2.3 per cent, at US$64.46 a barrel by 13:12h. EDT (1812 GMT), while US West Texas Intermediate crude rose US$1.55, or 2.64 per cent, to US$60.24 a barrel.
At current levels, Brent was heading for a weekly gain of 1.3 per cent and WTI a gain of 0.8 per cent.
Friday's attack damaged a ship in port, apartment blocks and an oil depot in Novorossiisk, injuring three of the vessel's crew, Russian officials said.
"The hit on that Russian terminal was huge and seems to have had a bigger impact than previous at-tacks," said Phil Flynn, senior analyst with Price Futures Group.
The port paused oil exports, equivalent to 2.2 million barrels per day, or two per cent of global supply, and oil pipeline monopoly Transneft suspended crude supplies to the outlet, two industry sources told Reuters.
Investors are also watching the impact of Western sanctions on Russian oil supply and trade flows.
Britain on Friday issued a special licence allowing businesses to continue working with two Bulgarian subsidiaries of sanctioned Russian oil firm Lukoil, as the Bulgarian Government seized control of the assets.
The United States (US) imposed sanctions banning deals with Russian oil companies Lukoil and Ros-neft after November 21 as part of efforts to bring the Kremlin to peace talks over Ukraine.
About 1.4 million bpd of Russia's oil, or almost a third of seaborne export potential, has been added to stocks held on tankers as unloading slows due to the US sanctions against Rosneft and Lukoil, JPMor-gan said on Thursday. (Excerpt from Reuters)
At least 2 dead, 21 missing in landslides in Indonesia’s Java island
At least two persons have been killed and 21 remain unaccounted for following a landslide in Indone-sia, according to officials, as rescuers continue to search for the missing.
Several days of heavy rainfall in the region led to landslides that hit dozens of houses in three villages in the Cilacap district, Central Java province, on Thursday evening, officials said in a statement released on Friday.
“As of Friday morning, the joint team has rescued 23 people alive. Two people were found deceased, and 21 others are still be-
South Africa to investigate "mystery" of planeload of Palestinians
outh African President
SCyril Ramaphosa says there will be an investigation into the "mysterious" arri-val of a chartered plane carrying 153 Palestinians from Gaza into the country.
The group arrived at OR Tambo International Airport but were initially refused entry and were stuck in the plane for more than 10 hours as they "did not have the customary departure stamps in their pass-ports," local authorities said.
Most were eventually allowed in after intervention from a local charity and because of the Govern-ment's "empathy [and] compassion", Ramaphosa said.
The circumstances of their departure from Gaza and travel to South Africa remain unclear.
did not specify the country. According to the Palestinian embassy in South Africa, the group left Israel's Ramon Airport and flew to the country via the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, "without any prior note or coordination".
ing searched for,” Abdul Muhari, spokesman of the National Disaster Management Agency, said in a statement.
A search and rescue operation was under way to look for the missing victims, Muhari said. He added that unstable terrain had hindered rescue efforts, and heavy equipment had been deployed to assist the operation.
Footage released by the National Search and Rescue Agency showed rescuers searching for victims buried under the rubble of the houses. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
South Africa has maintained strong support for the Palestinian cause throughout the war between Ha-mas and Israel in Gaza.
Ramaphosa said the group "somehow mysteriously were put on a plane that passed by Nairobi" and flew
to South Africa, reports the News24 site.
Israeli military body
Cogat, which controls Gaza's crossings, said in a statement: "The residents left the Gaza Strip after Cogat received approval from a third country to receive them." It
A statement from the embassy said "an unregistered and misleading organisation [had] exploited the tragic humanitarian conditions of our people in Gaza, deceived families, collected money from them, and facilitated their travel in an irregular and irresponsible manner."
Of the 153 passengers, 23 managed to fly on to other destinations, leaving 130 who were admitted into the country, South African authorities say. (Excerpt from BBC News)
“I have a country to run”: Trump lambasts Democrats, “weak” Republicans while repeating claim that Epstein emails a “hoax”
Donald Trump has claimed on social media that Democratic lawmakers are doing “everything in their withering power to push the Epstein hoax again”. This comes after emails released this week by the House Oversight Committee seem to suggest that the President may have known about Jeffrey Ep-stein’s conduct.
In his post on Truth Social on Friday, Trump added that the latest batch
of documents are being used to “deflect” from Democrats’ “bad policies and losses, especially the SHUTDOWN EMBARRASS-MENT, where their party is in total disarray and has no idea what to do”.
The President has yet to address the emails or the wider record release, which included more than 20,000 pages. On Thursday, he took no questions from reporters at an executive order signing in the East Room. He has, however, been reso-
lute about his stance online. White House officials have recapit-ulated his claims that the new information is merely a distraction.
“Some weak Republicans have fallen into their clutches because they are soft and foolish,” Trump wrote on Friday. “Epstein was a Democrat, and he is the Democrat’s problem, not the Republican’s problem! Ask Bill Clinton, Reid Hoffman, and Larry Summers about Epstein; they know all about him. Don’t waste your
time with Trump. I have a country to run!”
The President continued to post on Truth Social, notably saying that he will direct Attorney General Pam Bondi and the FBI to investigate Jeffrey Epstein’s “involvement and relationship with Bill Clin-ton, Larry Summers, Reid Hoffman, JPMorgan Chase, and many other people and institutions, to de-termine what was going on with them and him.” (Excerpt from The Guardian)
ICE tries to deport Native American woman - calls it "silly" mistake
ANative American woman was almost deported after being caught up in Donald Trump’s sweeping immigration crackdown.
The United States (US) Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) issued a detainer for Leticia Jacobo, 24, who was born in Phoenix and is a member of the Salt River PimaMaricopa Indian Community. Her sister said Ms Jacobo was targeted as a re-
sult of “racial profiling” by authorities.
She had been arrested in September for allegedly driving with a suspended licence and was due to be released on November 11.
However, just hours before, her mother, Ericka Burns, was told that instead of being released, she would be taken into federal custody ahead of her possible deportation.
Ms Burns was forced to take a copy of her daughter’s
birth certificate to the jail and stayed on site throughout the night to make sure her daughter was not taken. Ms Jacobs was eventually released in the early hours of November 12.
Lt Mark Chance, a spokesman for the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, which oversees the jail, said the ICE detainer was a result of “human error” and was intended for a different detained person. He called it a “silly” mistake and said
internal discussions would be held to prevent it from happening again in the future.
Ms Nunez said she was sceptical that the ICE detainer was the result of a clerical mix-up, noting that Ms Jacobs had her tribal identification documents on her, had been fingerprinted and had previously been detained in the same jail. She suggested discrimination had been involved. (Source: The Tele-graph)
UK man pleads guilty to plotting bomb attack
ABritish man pleaded guilty on Friday to plotting a terrorist attack, collecting weapons and parts for a homemade bomb, conducting reconnaissance at an army base near King Charles' Windsor Castle, and setting fire to a church.
Ilyas Akhtar, 20, appeared at London's Old Bailey court by video link
and pleaded guilty to four charges, including a count of engaging in conduct in preparation of terrorist acts.
The charge stated that he had accessed an al Qaeda manual, bought knives and razor blades and con-ducted research about weapons, poisons and how to make an improvised explosive device.
He visited locations in-
cluding Windsor's Victoria Barracks, base of the Coldstream Guards infantry regiment whose duties include the ceremonial role of protecting royal palaces.
Akhtar also pleaded guilty to one count of arson at a church in Slough, a town near Windsor.
The other charges he admitted include possessing a record likely to be useful to
a person preparing an act of terrorism and one count of perpetrating a bomb hoax. He pleaded not guilty to four other counts of arson relating to fires at an ice rink and a leisure centre in Slough in May this year. He faces a provisional trial at Woolwich Crown Court in October next year and was remanded into custody. (Reuters)
The circumstances of their departure from Gaza and travel to South Africa remain unclear
Rescuers from Indonesia's National Search and Rescue Agency (BASARNAS) search for victims after a landslide hit a village in Cilacap, Indonesia, on November 14, 2025
A change of plans, direction, or concerns will encourage you to speak up and participate in events that allow you to contribute and make a difference. The people you connect with will be instrumental in helping you move in a direction that offers greater opportunity to use your skills in a manner you enjoy.
Your heart and your head won’t be on the same page. You’ll tend to overreact and let stubbornness win when it comes to meaningful relationships. Try to channel your energy into self-improvement, learning new skills, and taking better care of yourself and your surroundings. Update essential documents that are timesensitive and ready for processing.
You’re in the zone and ready to act. Listen carefully, address issues with charm, and you’ll attract positive feedback that allows you to shine and win favors from those in a position to support what’s important to you. Social events will encourage meeting someone who interests you for love, friendship, or a collaboration of sorts.
Be open to suggestions and trying something new and exciting. Your participation will open doors to new faces and pastimes that are uplifting and give you something to look forward to. It’s time to expand your circle of friends and to embrace new beginnings. Don’t be shy, socializing, love, and romance are in the stars.
Learn as you go. Talks will dispel any misinformation you encounter, and participation will keep you informed and able to make spontaneous decisions. Refuse to let A lifestyle change will clear the way to better health, fitness, and friendships. Be open and honest regarding your feelings and intentions, and you’ll resolve any unanswered questions.
Talks will lead to unexpected change and a chance to formulate your next move. Refuse to let anger or ego stand in your way when an opportunity is apparent. Don’t miss out because you can’t let go of the past. Embrace new beginnings with a positive attitude and seize the moment and the adventure that awaits you.
Put more thought into how you can utilize your skills, talents, and experience to fortify your future. A passionate discussion with someone who knows and understands you will offer support and direction, encouraging you to move forward. Laboring over something you have no control over is wasteful; put your energy where progress is possible.
Look for opportunities and take advantage of what you discover. Ask questions and apply information directly to what interests you. Stick to the path that makes you feel most driven and refuse to deviate. Only comply with what affects you and what you are trying to achieve. Patience, focus, and discipline will help you achieve your goal.
Domestic issues will require thought and change. Let your heart choose and your head dictate the most suitable way to move forward. A financial opportunity or a chance to revise your lifestyle to ensure better health and emotional well-being are within reach. Move forward, do what’s best for you, and don’t look back.
Put your emotional energy into learning, discovery, and figuring out what’s best for you. Sign up to learn something new, add to your skills, or restructure how you approach something you love to do into a moneymaking proposition. Consider how to present who you are, what you can do, and how you can benefit others.
Structure a game plan that encourages you to expand your interests and marketability. Refuse to let insecurity set in or someone’s criticism stand in your way. It’s time to prop yourself up and to make the adjustments that boost your energy and confidence. You’ve got plenty to offer. Channel your energy into what you enjoy doing most.
Anger, laziness, and negativity are the enemy. Push past emotional letdowns and propel yourself forward with a creative spirit and willful mindset. Engage in social events and carry yourself with poise and a positive attitude. You’ll attract attention, support, and new relationships that make you feel good about yourself and your future. Romance is favored.
ARCHIE
Babar Azam hit his first international century in more than two years, as Pakistan's senior batters made light work of chasing down the target of 289. Sri Lanka's middle order had dragged the total to 288 for 8 after they'd lost early wickets. But on a flat Rawalpindi track, they never looked like defending their score, particularly after their opening bowlers were wayward. Pakistan got home with 10 balls to spare and eight wickets at their
Babar breaks century drought to help Pakistan clinch series
and Wanindu Hasaranga, who all made scores between 37 and 54 – Liyanage being the only Sri Lankan batter to make a half-century.
Although Hasaranga put in another excellent batting effort to elevate Sri Lanka's death overs performance, 289 always seemed emi-
disposal. They have now won the series 2-0, with one match to play.
Babar's 102 not out off 119 – his 20th ODI ton – was not only significant for ending his international century drought (his last hundred had been in May 2023) but also for equalling Saeed Anwar's record for most ODI hundreds for Pakistan. He had two ultra-productive regions – through cover and midwicket. Those areas brought him 61 of his runs and six of his eight fours.
consolidate that start. Babar put on a 100-run stand with Zaman before Mohammad Rizwan joined him at the crease for an unbeaten 112run affair. Rizwan finished with 52 not out off 51 balls.
Sri Lanka were poor in the first 20 overs of both innings. Having been put into bat, they were 90 for 3 in the 20th over, before that score line worsened to 98 for 4. Some spunk was shown by the likes of Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage,
It felt even more gettable when Sri Lanka's opening bowlers were wayward with the new ball. Asitha Fernando went at 10 an over in the powerplay. Pramod Madushan – playing his first international in 18 months –conceded 19 runs in his first two overs. After eight overs, during which Sri Lanka cap-
find his rhythm, particularly against the seam bowlers. With even the experienced pairing of Dushmantha Chameera and Fernando struggling to bowl consistent lines, Pakistan's batters found their progress fairly smooth.
Sri Lanka's top wicket-taker from Tuesday –Hasaranga – also appeared to be struggling with a back complaint and exited the field at least twice to receive treatment. With the seam-
tain Charith Asalanka went to a Plan B that also didn't work out, Pakistan were 73 for no loss.
On the kind of cold evening in which Sri Lanka's fielders tend not to do well, the catching was even worse than the bowling. Fernando dropped Zaman on 21 in the seventh over – a simple chance at long off. Two overs later, Zaman was dropped again at long off, this time by Liyanage, who had to make some ground to get there. Zaman would be dropped again on 78 but would be dismissed the next ball.
Babar too had a close call on five, when he chipped one back to Madushan, who couldn't hold on in his follow-through. He was slow to start with, making 12 off his first 22 balls. But when he drove Madushan crisply down the ground for four in the 16th over, he began to
aaa
Sri Lanka (50 ovs maximum)
Pathum Nissanka run out
(Naseem Shah/Mohammad Wasim/†Mohammad Rizwan) 24
Kamil Mishara st †Mohammad Rizwan
b Abrar Ahmed 27
Kusal Mendis † c Mohammad Nawaz
b Abrar Ahmed 20
Sadeera Samarawickrama
b Haris Rauf 42
Charith Asalanka (c) lbw
b Abrar Ahmed 6
Janith Liyanage c Mohammad Nawaz
b Mohammad Wasim 54
Kamindu Mendis c Saim Ayub
b Haris Rauf 44
Wanindu Hasaranga not out 37
Dushmantha Chameera lbw
b Haris Rauf 0
Pramod Madushan not out 11
Extras (lb 9, w 14) 23
Total 50 Ov (RR: 5.76) 288/8
Fall of wickets: 1-51 (Pathum Nissanka, 9.5 ov), 2-62 (Kamil Mishara, 13.1 ov), 3-90 (Kusal Mendis, 19.2 ov), 4-98 (Charith Asalanka, 21.2 ov), 5-159 (Sadeera Samarawickrama, 31.4 ov), 6-232 (Kamindu Mendis, 42.3 ov), 7-241 (Janith Liyanage, 43.6 ov), 8-244
ers leaking so many runs, Pakistan's batters could afford to see Hasaranga off safely.
There were points in Zaman's innings, particularly after he crossed 50, when he struggled to find boundaries. But even when Sri Lanka squeezed, they could never do so for long. Babar and Rizwan's progress to the target was almost frictionless in the last 15 overs of the game.
Earlier in the game, it had been leg spinner Abrar Ahmed who imposed himself. Sri Lanka's openers had begun brightly but lost Pathum Nissanka to a heedless third run before Abrar had Kamil Mishara stumped. He also had Kusal Mendis pull him straight to short midwicket and soon after trapped Asalanka in front of the stumps. He was Pakistan's best bowler, with 3 for 41. Haris Rauf also finished with three wickets, taking two of than at the death. (ESPNcricinfo)
Pakistan goes 2-0 in the series
Haris Rauf's good form continues
Fakhar Zaman celebrates after scoring a half-century
Babar Azam celebrates after scoring a century
Young Guyanese archer completes World Archery Continental Training camp in El Salvador
The National Archery Federation, Archery Guyana, welcomes back home Youth U18 Archer Saifullah Gani and National Head Coach Ryan McKinnon from a Continental Youth Training Camp for the Americas, held in Santa Tecla, El Salvador, from November 1 to 8, 2025.
The training camp was organised in collaboration with World Archery, World Archery Americas and the Archery Federation of El Salvador and was supported by Olympic Solidarity. It brought together young archers and their coaches
from across the Americas for high-level training and advanced development in sport.
This prestigious training opportunity allowed them to work with world-class coaches, including Coach Derek Davis and Coach Filippo Clini. Hosted at the worldclass Jorge Jimenez Archery Range, youth recurve archers of the Americas born 2009–2011 were selected from a field of applicants fitting established criteria inclusive of having previously shot the mandatory minimum qualification (MQS) at an official competition.
Ultimate cycle road race of 2025 set for Sunday
Team Alanis Cycling Club, in collaboration with Ele’s Trading & Hardware, will host the season finale cycle road race on Sunday, November 16, 2025. The race will ride off from Schoonord, West Bank Demerara (WBD), and the peloton will thunder their way to Parika and back, conquering
nearly 50 miles of pure speed, power, and endurance.
Cyclists are asked to assemble at the Bharrat Jagdeo River Bridge for 20:00h, but the actual race starts at 20:30h. Trophies and cash prizes for the various categories are up for grabs. In addition, eight sprint prizes of $2000 each will be up for taking.
The various categories include the Elites, Juniors, Juveniles, Category Four, Masters Under 45 and Masters Over 50.
This is the last and final race of the 2025 cycling calendar, the grand curtain closer to an unforgettable season of passion, power, and perseverance.
Reflecting on the experience, Saifullah Gani stated, "Going to the camp has helped me realise what I need to do to make myself a better archer. At the camp, I was able to absorb the knowledge of the amazing coaches, Coach Derek Davis, Coach Filippo Clini, and my coach Ryan McKinnon, thanks also for guiding me and accompanying me despite his busy schedule. I would like to thank Archery Guyana and World Archery for giving me this opportunity and for pushing other young archers like myself to grow in the sport of ar chery."
However, the President of the El Salvador Archery Federation, Roberto Hernández, warmly welcomed the partic ipants and facilitat ed the training sessions on the sprawling and well-kept Salvadoran Archery Range.
class level coaches, athletes and certified instructors. I believe that reinventing the wheel on training is a huge waste of time and resources, especially since we have
The camp included intensive physical pre-shooting routines, technical training, strategic instruction, mental preparation techniques, practice qualification rounds, and one-arrow and team competitions under stress, all with the aim of preparing athletes for higher-level continental and international competition.
Word Archery Certified Level 2 Coach Ryan McKinnon stated, “This camp reinstates my trust in Guyana’s Archery Federation training policy. From inception we have been focused on using techniques established by the World governing body (World Archery) to develop world
West Indies Under-19s ready for England
In preparation for the U19 World Cup, the West Indies Under-19 team opens a new chapter as they take on England in a seven-match Youth ODI series starting on Sunday in Grenada.
The series marks another key step in examining the squad’s readiness for the ICC Under-19 World Cup early next year, with head coach Rohan Nurse eager to see further progress from his young side.
The Caribbean youngsters head into the contest on the back of a hard-fought 4–3 series win over Sri Lanka in Antigua just over two months ago, and Nurse believes the lessons from that tour will be invaluable as the group continues to develop. There are three changes to the squad which opposed Sri Lanka in August and September, with DeShawn James returning from injury, while Kunal Tilokani and Tanez Francis were included after impressive performances in the regional Under-17 tournament.
Afraz Ali Buhdoo, Micah
Greenidge and Pajay Nelson miss out on the England series, but along with Jewel Andrew and Micah McKenzie, they will form part of the larger player pool from which the World Cup squad will be selected in a few months’ time.
“We were really impressed with the resilience shown by the players in the last series, especially since it was the first time they had been together as a team,” Nurse said.
“Those are elements that can’t necessarily be coached – they have to be developed within the group, and we’re quite happy with that. We want to build on it going forward.”
While satisfied with the team’s fighting spirit, Nurse identified specific areas for improvement and emphasised the importance of consistency and concentration if the West Indies are to assert dominance across the series.
“One of the main things we’ve emphasised is maintaining intensity in all departments – batting, bowling and especially fielding. We want to create some kind
of advantage in that area,” Nurse explained.
“We’ve seen that we can put together very good performances and be competitive at the international Under-19 level. It all starts at the top from a batting viewpoint and being able to convert when we get starts.
That’s been a key focus in preparation. From a bowling standpoint, we’ve also worked on clearly defining roles and identifying who best suits which role.”
With the Under-19 World Cup on the horizon, the England series represents an important stage
Team Management Unit:
Head Coach – Rohan Nurse
Assistant Coach – Jerome Taylor
Assistant Coach – Nikita Miller
Physiotherapist – Kwayne Dalrymple
Strength & Conditioning
Coach – Shayne Cooper
Team Analyst – Keshava Ramphal
Manager – Clint St Hill
vious week. Encampment ensured that we were able to do analysis and discuss coaching methods, one of the big topics I want to put out is, breaking of bad habits. I constantly observe our athletes struggling to grasp fundamental concepts because they experiment with what they see on YouTube videos and other ‘training’ videos read - ily available online. We agreed this is a detrimental habit which makes it difficult for us as coaches to assist them in advancing their personal best and limits elite level performances,” McKinnon added.
to home soil to conduct certified training for Guyanese in comfort, using subsidised funding from our affiliates and partners.
“These trainers all bring techniques and concepts that are tested and proven at the highest levels such as World Championships and the Olympics. I am big on adopting what works globally, once done in a sequential manner with strong focus on safety and proper fundamentals Guyana will continue to do well in the sport. My interactions with a familiar face in Derek David together with working for the first time with Flippo Clini thanks to this camp has given me even deeper motivation, especially coming from the team successes in CDC 2025 Trinidad the pre-
challenge
on which to build a competitive, cohesive unit capable of handling international demands.
“This series comes at a really good time for us,” Nurse said. “Now, it’s more about moving toward a performance-driven environment – while still helping the guys understand professionalism, expectations and roles on and off the field.”
West Indies Under 19
Squad vs England: Joshua Dorne, Shaquan Belle, Brendan Boodoo, Tyriek Bryan, Zachary Carter, Earsinho Fontaine, Tanez Francis, R’Jai Gittens, DeShawn James, Vitel Lawes, Matthew Miller, Isra-el Morton, Jakeem Pollard, Aadian Racha, Kunal Tilokani and Johnathan Van Lange.
Match Schedule: 1st Y-ODI – 16 November
2nd Y-ODI – 19 November
3rd Y-ODI – 21 November
4th Y-ODI – 24 November
5th Y-ODI – 26 November
6th Y-ODI – 29
One of the major takeaways from the camp for him, he noted, is the benefit of a high training percentage allocated for mental training regardless of physical fitness. As such, he feels that this can hold true across all sports while adding that Guyana needs more Guyanese professionals in this field to work with our sports personnel.
Further, he stated that Gani has shown great capacity for learning, and his determination to hone his skill set for more consistency will no doubt make for his future success in archery.
“This camp is truly a privilege for me, given the opportunity to attend and fly the Golden Arrowhead once again internationally, my gratitude to the organizers and all involved in making this possible.”
Archery Guyana extended its gratitude to President Godfrey Munroe and the Executive Committee of the Guyana Olympic Association for the opportunity to participate in this programme.
This collaboration continues to support the growth of archery in Guyana and the development of young athletes on the international stage.
Word Archery Certified Level
2 Coach Ryan McKinnon
Cyclists at the starting point
Assistant Coach Jerome Taylor instructs his bowlers
Saifullah Gani during the camp
The FIBA Caribbean Women’s Championship
The FIBA Caribbean Women’s Championship delivered another thrilling day of competition at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown, on Thursday evening, where fans witnessed two commanding performances that reshaped the momentum in Group A.
The US Virgin Islands handed host nation Guyana their first defeat of the tournament, while the Bahamas lit up the court with a high-powered display led by one of the event’s most explosive individual showings.
Guyana’s promising start to the tournament took a hit as they fell 78–54 to a well-organised and physically imposing Virgin Islands team. From the opening quarter, the visitors controlled the pace, outscoring Guyana in the first three quarters and applying pressure on both ends of the floor.
The star of the matchup was Anisha George, who powered the Virgin Islands with 23 points on an exceptional 83.3 per cent fieldgoal efficiency. Her dominance in the paint forced
Guyana into tough defensive situations throughout the game. She received strong support from Taylor Jones, who added 18 points and helped maintain the offensive rhythm.
Guyana, despite the setback, showed grit and determination. Ruth Adams led the home side with 16 points, battling to keep her team competitive, while Joy Brown scored 13 and Anaya McDavid contributed 12. However, Guyana struggled to match the Virgin Islands’ consistency and execution, ultimately falling behind as the game progressed.
fensive show from Lashann Higgs.
The Bahamian guard was in unstoppable form, pouring in 35 points, including an impressive seven three-pointers, igniting her team and sending the crowd into repeated bursts of excitement.
Supporting Higgs’ offen-
sive explosion was Valerie Nesbitt, who contributed 13 points with steady leadership in the backcourt, and Mitchell Butler, who added 10 to round out a balanced Bahamas attack. The team’s strong transitions and perimeter shooting proved too much for Suriname to contain.
Suriname fought valiantly, leaning on Beyonce Jedinie, who top-scored with 15 points, and Chiniqua Pengel, who chipped in 10. Despite their efforts, the
team struggled to handle the Bahamas’ pace and defensive pressure, particularly during a decisive 24-point third-quarter surge. With the Virgin Islands and the Bahamas each registering convincing wins, momentum swings their way as the group stage intensifies. Guyana will now look to regroup on home soil and rebound in their upcoming fixtures, while Suriname aims to adjust and capitalise on their individual bright spots.
Guyanese students shine at int’l karate championship in Curaçao
Hope hails Shepherd for consistency in New Zealand
After the five-match T20I series where the West Indies lost to New Zealand 3-1, Guyanese Romario Shepherd was a standout performer in both departments. He scored 128 runs at an average of 42, and he picked up four wickets at an average of 27.
Several students of the Good Hope Secondary School’s Karate Club have performed exceptionally well at the recently concluded Buena Vista Karate Dojo 35th Anniversary International Championship held in Willemstad, Curaçao. The tournament was held on November 7 and 8 and saw participation from
several countries, including Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago from the Caribbean. However, in the Kata Division, Ayesha Khan captured a silver medal, and Alesha Khan secured the bronze medal, while in the Kumite Division, all three athletes – Ayesha Khan, Alesha Khan, and Keneisa Best – secured honorary gold medals in their respec-
tive categories.
The Ministry commended the team’s performance and stated that competing against regional and international athletes, the Guyanese students demonstrated remarkable discipline, strength, and commitment, proudly showcasing the high standards of school sports and extracurricular activities.
The West Indies captain at the post-match spoke highly of Shepherd and described him as a student of the game who remains hungry for success.
"Shepherd has been a hard worker. He has been very detailed about his preparation. He does a lot of research, so it's great to see his success coming more consistently. He has been really good with the ball, picking up crucial wickets. So many positives from his
side. I am glad to see him being consistent and gaining that confidence he has been lacking, especially with the ball," Hope said.
The West Indies were shot out for 140 in 18.4 overs, and they were always behind the eight-ball. Hope was hoping that his bowlers could have put the Black Caps under pressure in the powerplay, but it could not materialise. "We just wanted to make sure we were putting in good bowling under pressure, not allowing them to settle in the powerplay.
It didn't really work out this time, but it's something for us to focus on going forward. Must give credit to the guys in the lower half for putting their hands up throughout the series,"
Hope explained.
The West Indies captain also lamented the lack of preparation his team had while acclimatising in New Zealand.
"It's one of those places where you need good preparation, something we didn't have. It's not an excuse, but it certainly would help in conditions like these. It's not familiar conditions that we face back home. Going to take learnings from this series. Sure, the conditions will be similar in ODIs. Just got to ensure we're learning quickly, especially from a batting perspective," Hope revealed.
The first ODI between the West Indies and New Zealand bowls off on Saturday, November 15, at 21:00h local time.
In the day’s other Group A showdown, the Bahamas delivered a statement performance with a 77–45 triumph over Suriname, driven by an electrifying of-
Anisha George in action
Action between Guyana and the Virgin Islands
Romario Shepherd gets set to pull the ball during the fifth T20 match against New Zealand (Getty Images)
Guyanese medallists after winning their respective competitions
President Dr Irfaan Ali on Friday met with world bodybuilder champion,
at State House,
Street, Georgetown, where he congratulated her on behalf of all Guyanese on her historic victory at the International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation (IFBB) World Championships in Dubai. Her victory marks the first time a Guyanese athlete has ever secured a
Rosanna Fung,
Main