The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Sunday, December 7 –06:10h–07:40h and Monday, December 8 – 06:55h–08:25h.
BRIDGE OPENINGS FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily
WEATHER TODAY
Sunny skies with brief periods of morning to midday thundery showers are expected during the day, and cloudy skies interrupted by thundery showers at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.
Winds: Easterly to East North Easterly between 2.23 metres and 5.36 metres.
High Tide: 18:07h reaching a maximum height of 2.68 metres.
Low Tide: 11:40h reaching a minimum height of 0.72 metre.
PM commissions 3MWp Prospect Solar Farm
...says electricity demand continues to grow and it must be met
Anew 3-megawatt peak (MWp) solar farm valued at $1.2 billion was on Saturday commissioned at Prospect, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), with Prime Minister (PM) Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips declaring that Guyana’s rapidly rising electricity demand continues to grow and it must be met through a balanced mix of renewable energy and new generation projects. The Prospect Solar Farm, developed under the Guyana Utility-Scale Solar Photovoltaic (GUYSOL) Programme, will feed an estimated 4,800-megawatt hours (MWh) of clean electricity into the grid each year. The facility will operate at 13.8 kilovolts (kV), saving the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) about $210 million annually in fuel costs and avoiding the use of some 9,000 drums of diesel every year. PM Phillips made it clear that while the Government is aggressively expanding solar and other renewable projects, it is not pursuing renewable energy in isolation.
“Our aim in Guyana is not to pursue renewable energy in isolation. It is part of a coherent national transformation of our entire energy landscape,” the PM stated.
He reminded that the Government’s flagship 300MW Gas-to-Energy (GtE) Project at Wales is advancing, with the pipeline already laid and construction ongoing on the combined-cycle power plant and natural gas liquids facility. Once operational, he reiterated, electricity costs on the national grid are expected to be reduced by 50 per cent, directly easing the burden on households and businesses. Alongside that longterm project, Phillips said Government has already added 186.2-MW of new generating capacity to meet the immediate surge in demand. This includes new gener-
of the 750-kilowatt (kW) solar installation at Leguan, which now powers the island during the day, as well as the 4.5-MW solar project at Anna Regina in Region Two, which has significantly reduced that region’s reliance on diesel. In Region Six, the Hampshire 3-MW solar farm was commissioned just weeks ago, while similar projects are scheduled for Charity in Region Two and Trafalgar in Region Five. “Together, these sites form an integrated framework of renewable energy infrastructure that strengthens
ating sets at the Garden of Eden plant, emergency units at the Columbia Substation and the temporary integration of two power ships into the grid. “These expansions are not placeholders. They are strategic reinforcements ensuring Guyana never falls behind the pace of development. Guyana today is like one huge construction site;
everything that is being built needs energy and it is our duty to ensure that energy is available, reliable and affordable,” he emphasised.
The PM described Prospect as part of a national “constellation” of solar facilities now stretching across both the coastland and hinterland. He recalled the commissioning earlier this year
GPL’s capabilities and enhances energy security for communities across Regions Two, Five and Six. Every new site commissioned represents reliability for families, reduced expenditure for homes and businesses and a modernised grid that supports industrial activity,” he said.
Very sadly, the Opposition, such as it is, is focusing on playing to the gallery to exploit the desire of most people for a magic wand to be waved by the Government to resolve all their problems immediately. The cynical tactic resonates because the oil revenues do appear to be that magic wand. The French and Germans have a single word –“La politique” and “politik”, respectively – that encompasses what is distinguished in the English language as “politics” and “policies”. Our Opposition, however, refuses to acknowledge the distinction as they focus unrelentingly on the attainment of raw power – sadly for very personal reasons on the assumption that political office will place them above the workings of the law. Politics, of course, involves the pursuit and retention of power – to decide “who gets what, when and how”. The “who” being the people. But less glamorously, policies imply rolling up one’s sleeves to craft and implement principles or rules to achieve articulated goals. And this takes time.
The Opposition could care less about policies. They have, for instance, had the chutzpah to criticise the Government on “corruption”. But examining their pronouncements, all they do is attack individuals within the Government or those they claim are close to the Administration – “friends and family” –and not look at themselves. This approach is not getting the country anywhere – except to discourage men and women of calibre from entering public service. Where are the policies of the Opposition to deal with corruption?
We have in mind what Max Weber called “a slow boring of hard boards”: a willingness to interrogate a criticised phenomenon and discern its causes before coming up with the broad principles to deal with it within an institutionalised framework. Returning to the vexed question of “corruption”, are there, for instance, deeper systemic causes operating within the neoliberal order that has been imposed on our economic system since 1989?
Is it just a coincidence that the same rules of ‘liberalisation” and “deregulation” that were developed and applied in the “advanced” economies have also led to questions of moral laxity there? Are markets the best arbiter of distributive justice, much less moral probity? Unless the Opposition are prepared to pose and then answer such questions that can lead to new and comprehensive policies which might ensnare themselves, they are just spinning wheels. Or maybe worse: they are leading their supporters into believing there will be real change after their theatrics. When the latter discover that it is the “same ole; same ole” then frustration might lead to explosions.
Politics rather than policies – and gutter politics at that – is ruling the roost. The AG had poignantly asked whether it does not bother those who clamour for a Leader of the Opposition (LOO) to be in place but who ignore the implications of having that person be one who declared that a Lamborghini was bought for US$75,000. Most insidiously for good governance, some in the Opposition leadership have condemned the Government’s attempts to include the entire populace in their developmental thrust – which inevitably means including erstwhile Opposition supporters – as “slave catching”. Such pernicious attempts at keeping our country’s citizens in hermetically sealed and antagonistic enclaves must be condemned by all responsible Guyanese.
When the Opposition PNC chose to introduce a policy –a Universal Basic Income (UBI) – that would be funded from the Natural Resources Fund (NRF), they just could not resist playing politics rather than sticking to the policy. They dubbed it “the Buxton Proposal”: deliberately tying it to an Opposition stronghold that immediately reminds everyone of that partisan nexus. The notion of UBI has been floating around for decades, even though no country has adopted it in toto, with mostly NGOs sharing out guaranteed small sums for a fixed number of years to villages mostly in Africa. The closest to a “national” deployment is Alaska, where their experience highlights the challenges when the funding runs out and citizens’ “entitlements” are cut.
But it makes clear why the Opposition refuse to focus on policies – the nuances would defang their politics.
The Christmas truce of World War I, 1914
By Jonathan Bhagan
“Joy to the world; the Lord is come; let Earth receive her King,” the Christmas carol echoes through the shop window at your local mall. Tinselled trees, festive wreaths and garlands fill public spaces, yet despite this, a sombre mood persists even as news headlines warn of impending conflict.
As December begins, the countdown to Christmas 2025 in Trinidad and Tobago lingers in the shadow of the largest military deployment in the Caribbean since American and British forces hunted down German U-boats during World War II.
Even as liturgical churches fly their Advent colours and light candles, the prayers of the faithful are for Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, to avert unnecessary bloodshed this Christmas season.
This contradictory spirit fills the air, but it is not unknown to history that, over 100 years ago, the spirit of Christmas conquered the fires of war on one notable occasion.
The spirit of Christmas prevailed in the form of a truce during World War I in 1914.
World War I was a particularly bloody war marked by the first use of chemical weapons, aerial bombardment and the invention of the tank to break through the trench warfare that
claimed the lives of millions on fields such as Flanders and the Somme. It is estimated that between 15 and 22 million people were killed during WWI. Trinidadians and Tobagonians took part in these battles, including one of my ancestors, Cecil Martin Gooch, who answered the call to fight alongside British troops during the battles of World War I. I was told as a child that my great-grandfather, Cecil Martin Gooch, was captured for some time by the Germans and held as a prisoner of war but was released and returned to T&T safely.
Despite the horrors of World War I, there were attempts for the spirit of Christmas to be respected by some sort of truce, a temporary end to the fighting.
To this end, an open Christmas letter was written and signed by 101 British suffragists (feminist women who advocated for women to have the right to vote). This letter was part of a wider conversation with American feminist Carrie Chapman Catt, the president of the International Woman Suffrage Alliance (IWSA), and German women’s rights activists.
An excerpt from the letter reads “To the WOMEN OF GERMANY & AUSTRIA.
Sisters,
Some of us wish to send you a word at this sad Christmastide, though we
can but speak through the press. The Christmas message sounds like mockery to a world at war, but those of us who wished and still wish for peace may surely offer a solemn greeting to such of you who feel as we do. Do not let us forget that our very anguish unites us, that we are passing together through the same experiences of pain and grief.
Caught in the grip of terrible circumstances, what can we do? Tossed on this turbulent sea of human conflict, we can but moor ourselves to those calm shores whereon stand, like rocks, the eternal verities – Love, Peace, and Brotherhood.
We pray you to believe that come what may, we hold to our faith in peace and goodwill between nations; while technically at enmity in obedience to our rulers, we own allegiance to that higher law which bids us live at peace with all men.”
On December 7, 1914, Pope Benedict XV pleaded for an official Christmas truce between the warring governments; however, this call was refused by governments on both sides of the war.
History records that between December 24 and 26, 1914, many of the men in the trenches on opposing sides of the conflict decided to lay down their arms to take part in joint burial ceremonies and prisoner swaps and even engaged in singing Christmas carols.
The men even exchanged food with some soldiers, being given fried bacon, sauerkraut, red wine, Christmas pudding, chocolate and oranges. At least 100,000 German and British troops took part in these informal fraternisations in 1914, with reports of Germans putting candles on the trenches and on trees while singing carols, and the British carolling as well. The peace that lasted through the Christmas of 1914, unfortunately, was not repeated in a widespread manner for the rest of World War I, as the bitterness over the deployment of chemical weapons and heavy artillery made both sides grow cold.
We can look to this historical example of the Spirit of Christmas overcoming bloodshed during our own Christmas 2025, even as we wait and see the outcome of possible hostilities between the United States and Venezuela.
Following the example of Jesus Christ to love our neighbours, we can, as a nation, reject political polarisation, panic and xenophobia and embrace the teachings of the Prince of Peace even during uncertain times.
I hope that this column has brought a unique perspective and rekindled hopes of Christmas cheer being possible, even in the midst of our present circumstances in T&T and the wider Caribbean. (Trinidad & Tobago Guardian)
It was a festive and colourful Christmas launch of the One Guyana Christmas Village and Supermarket on Main Street, Friday, December 5
“Slow down, stop the drinking and driving” – Pres Ali urges in busy Christmas season
With the holiday season officially underway, President Dr Irfaan Ali has issued a firm and urgent national appeal for responsible behaviour, especially on Guyana’s roadways, warning that the joy of Christmas means nothing if lives are lost through reckless actions such as speeding and drunk driving. Speaking on Friday evening at the launch of the One Guyana Christmas Village and Supermarket along Main Street Avenue, the President used his platform to deliver one of his strongest holiday safety messages to date. As thousands prepare for weeks of heightened travel, festivities and
nightlife, he underscored that celebration must never come at the expense of human life. “As we celebrate this beautiful season, I urge you to celebrate responsibly, care for each other and keep safe first,” President Ali told the large crowd gathered along the festively decorated avenue. “Keep safety first as your guiding principle. Celebration means nothing if it does not preserve life. Be safe on the road. Slow down.” Reiterating his warning, the President called on drivers to make sober and prayerful decisions before getting behind the wheel. “Slow down.
Life is more valuable arriving alive. Stop the drinking and driving,” he appealed. “Your family wants you home alive. Stop. Stop it. Stop putting other people’s life at danger.” President Ali reminded citizens that road safety is not merely an individual choice but a shared national responsibility. “You, we, collectively have a responsibility. Let us do this for our children, other people’s children, our family and other people’s families,” he said, urging Guyanese to consider the painful ripple effects of a single negligent act.
Back in November, 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. Additionally, more than 640 people have lost their lives on the country’s roadways in the past five years, including 24 children. The breakdown of accidents and loss of lives on the roadways showed that in 2020 there were 125 accidents and 139 deaths; 2021: 92 accidents and 97 deaths; 2022: 92 accidents and 99 deaths; 2023: 148 accidents and 175 deaths; and 2024: 117 accidents and 132 deaths. Beyond road safety, the President encouraged Guyanese to embrace the deeper meaning of the holiday season – connection, compassion and presence. “Share your time, your prayers, and your kindness,” he urged. “Make this season one of connection and community. Give the greatest gift by your presence. Be present in your neighbourhood. Be present in your family. Be present in your children. Be present in your community. Be present as a good human being.”
Indian investors, experts eye Skeldon Estate after analysing GuySuCo’s assets – to submit report on findings, potential investments
Ateam of investors and experts in the sugar manufacturing sector from India are looking at the possibility of investing in the revitalisation of the Skeldon Sugar Estate in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).
This is after the group, comprising representatives from various companies, visited Guyana last week, during which they conducted an independent assessment of the Guyana Sugar Corporation’s (GuySuCo) main assets.
On Saturday, the Indian investors and experts met with President Dr Irfaan Ali at the State House in Georgetown. Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh; Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha; CEO of GuySuCo, Paul Cheong and other Government officials were also part of the meeting.
According to a post on his official Facebook page, President Ali was provided with an update on identified gaps, rehabilitation requirements and a number of recommendations for intervention during the meeting.
“The team is expected to submit an official report to the Government within the coming weeks, identifying options for investments in key factory locations,” the post added.
A senior official familiar with the exploratory visit told the Guyana Times
that the group is exploring investment in the Skeldon Estate.
Three-day visit
The visiting team represented India-based companies that specialise in sugar production as well as the manufacturing of sugar factory parts. They also operate sugar factories outside of
ons,” the senior official indicated to this newspaper.
Meanwhile, among the Indian companies represented as part of the group was Terra Vista Solutions Pvt Ltd. According to its website, Terra Vista Solutions said it delivers innovative cogeneration and biomass combustion systems, offering end-to-end, sustainable
dustry.
“We are going to continue to invest, but we have to get the returns of our investment,” President Ali asserted, noting that the sugar industry remains a critical pillar of the Region Six economy.
He said that increasing production at the Albion and Rose Hall Estates is a priority, while the planned revival of Skeldon will integrate private farmers and introduce higher levels of modernisation and mechanisation across the industry.
According to the President, GuySuCo is targeting 100 per cent field mechanisation by 2030, complemented by the deployment of quality spectral imaging drones to enhance crop monitoring and decision-making.
He also revealed that a local foreign joint ventu-
India, including in countries within Africa.
During their three-day visit last week, the group of experts and investors toured three of Guyana’s four operating sugar estates – Albion Estate, Rose Hall Estate and Uitvlugt Estate – along with the closed Skeldon factory.
“They want to invest in Skeldon, and they also looked at assisting with parts for the other factories because we use very old equipment that are no longer being manufactured, so that’s something that they’re looking at too. And they’re also advising us on how to enhance [sugar] operati-
energy solutions.
Only two weeks ago, President Ali had revealed that a technical team from India would be examining the proposed reopening of the Skeldon Estate, with the aim of producing 37,000 tonnes of sugar by 2030.
Improving the industry
Speaking during a press conference held as part of his two-day Cabinet outreach to Region Six just last month, the Head of State spoke about a number of measures that the Government will be implementing to improve the sugar industry as well as the wider agriculture in-
re has already submitted a proposal for the establishment of a sugar refinery as part of a wider push toward value addition within the industry.
Ali stressed that improved management will be central to these reforms. A performance matrix for GuySuCo managers is expected to be implemented next year, with non-performing officials to be removed.
“The Panday syndrome in GuySuCo must be removed,” he said, describing the term as symbolic of mismanagement that has long hindered the sector.
The Skeldon Estate
was one of the four estates across the country that were shut down by the previous A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Administration, forcing thousands of sugar workers on the breadline.
Since returning to office in 2020, the Ali-led People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government has been looking, in a more studied way, at ways to reopen the estates and diversify the operations with the introduction of new industries at those factories that are not feasible for reopening to produce sugar.
Previously, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo had reported that Government had received proposals for the generation of power from the co-generation plant at the Skeldon Estate.
The Skeldon CoGeneration Plant – which has the capacity to produce 30 megawatts of electricity using bagasse from the sugar process – was designed to produce excess power that would be exported to the national grid. However, the plant is no longer working as a cogeneration system, given the closure of the sugar factory.
President Dr Irfaan Ali
President Dr Irfaan Ali met with Indian investors and experts in sugar manufacturing on Saturday at State House
A team of investors and experts in the sugar manufacturing sector that was recently in Guyana
President Ali was joined by Cabinet Ministers and other Government officials during Saturday’s meeting with the Indian group
Page Foundation
From Wolves to Woofs: How Dogs Began
Have you ever looked at a small dog, like a Chihuahua, and wondered how on earth it could have evolved from wolves?
Scientists know that wolves have roamed the planet for hundreds of thousands of years because of fossil evidence. They also know that dogs evolved from grey wolves over 15,000 years ago when people started to domesticate wolves. People domesticated wolves for protection, companionship, hunting, and much more.
But scientists are not sure about when and where dog ancestors lived. In 2018, they uncovered a preserved canine (whiskers, fur, and all!) in the permafrost in Siberia. This two-month-old, preserved puppy was nicknamed Dogor. “Dogor” means “friend” in the Yakut language of Siberia. Scientists worked out that Dogor lived around 18,000 years ago!
Normally, it’s quite easy to tell dogs and wolves apart, but Dogor was a different story. Because of his age, Dogor could be one of the earliest
known dogs ever found. He could also be an evolutionary link between dogs and wolves.
Scientists wanted to know if this discovery would help answer some questions about the ancestry of both dogs and wolves.
They had three questions:
• Was Dogor a dog or (Dog-or, get it?) a wolf?
• Where and when did wolf domestication happen?
• Was Dogor the ancestor of our present-day dogs?
By examining Dogor’s DNA and the DNA of other ancient
wolves and dogs, we could try to answer those questions.
Scientists analysed 72 ancient wolf samples, including Dogor.
Six of them had already been analysed before, while 66 of them were “new” ancient samples. The oldest wolf sample used was from around 100,000 years ago!
They analysed bones and teeth from wolves that had been found all over the world.
A small piece of each sample was scraped or drilled off and ground into a fine powder.
In the laboratory, pieces of DNA were extracted from the powder. Then they used a machine to sequence the DNA. Sequencing is a technique that tells us all the parts that make up an individual's DNA. Using this information, they were able to study how genetically similar different wolves were to each other.
By comparing the ancient wolf DNA to the DNA of modern dogs and wolves, we were able to learn more about the ancestry of both dogs and wolves. They concluded that Dogor was a wolf; his DNA shared the most genetic similarities with ancient Siberian wolves that lived around the same time.
This means that Dogor is an ancestor to many of the wolves that live today! Wolves like Dogor, who lived towards the end of the Ice Age, are more genetically similar to
each other than to wolves who lived earlier in the Ice Age. Dog ancestry appears to have come from two separate ancient wolf populations.
Most dogs have more genetic similarities to an Asian source, though some dogs also have some genetic similarities to a Middle Eastern source.
It appears that wolf populations were quite wellconnected through the last Ice Age. Many large mammals became extinct then, but wolves did not. They moved across large distances and spread new helpful traits throughout the species, which helped them to survive. Dogs are more genetically similar to ancient wolves in Asia than to those in Europe.
Most believe there must have been a domestication process somewhere in Asia.
Early dogs from Siberia, the
Americas, and north-eastern Europe share their origins from this eastern source. However, early dogs in Africa, southern Europe, and the Middle East appear to also have some ancestry from ancient wolves in the Middle East.
This suggests two possibilities:
1. Wolves were domesticated twice, once in Asia and once in the Middle East.
2. Wolves were domesticated once, most likely in Asia, but mixed again with wild wolves.
We can’t be certain which possibility is correct, but the results suggest the largest part of dog ancestry comes from the eastern source.
Our study revealed that different wolf populations were genetically quite similar during the Ice Age. There are more genetic differences between wolf populations today than there ever were in ancient times!
This is because of habitat loss and ill-treatment by humans over the last few centuries. There are many organisations around the world committed to conserving endangered wolf populations. The Wolf Conservation Center protects Mexican grey wolf and red wolf populations. If we support the hard work of organisations like these, maybe we can help wolves to thrive for another 100,000 years! (Science Journal for Kids)
Glossary of Key terms
Ancestry - an organism’s origin or background. If you’re tracing your ancestry, you’re looking back on relatives from long ago.
Domestication - the process of adapting wild animals and plants for human use and companionship, like humans did to wolves and cats.
Evolutionary link - an intermediate form between two related organisms.
Fossil evidence - physical proof of how organisms evolved over time.
Genome - the complete set of DNA in a cell organism.
Ice Age - a time period between 115,000 and 11,700 thousand years ago that is characterized by a cold, glacial climate when global temperatures were reduced, and glaciers advanced on the continents.
Permafrost – ground that is completely frozen for long periods of time..
Pleistocene era – a time period between 2.6 million years and 11,700 years ago, including the last Ice Age.
Sequencing DNA – a laboratory technique used to read DNA and all the associated genes that make up a genome. Siberia – a huge region in Northern Asia.
Delays in Gas-to-Energy Project
Added working hours to help meet new deadline – Minister Bharrat
– as gas development set to take centre stage at Energy Expo 2026
Reiterating the Government’s concerns over the delays in the highly anticipated Gas-to-Energy (GtE) Project, Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat says that the increased daily working hours will help to advance the project in order to meet the extended deadline of mid-2026. Located at Wales, West Bank Demerara (WBD), the GtE Project comprises a 300-megawatt (MW) combined cycle power plant and a natural gas liquids (NGL) facility that are being built to utilise the rich natural gas that will be piped from the Liza Field in the Stabroek Block, offshore Guyana. That pipeline has already been laid by ExxonMobil, the United States (US) oil major that is leading production operations in the oil-rich Stabroek Block offshore Guyana and is now awaiting the completion of the GtE facility to bring the gas onshore. US-based Lindsayca was awarded the US$759 million contract to build the facility that will see the cost of electricity slashed by half and ensure a reliable power supply across Guyana. At the time of the award, however, Lindsayca was in a consortium with another US-based company, CH4. The two companies have since split due to internal disputes, resulting in Lindsayca Guyana taking full control of the project. Prior to the breakup, the consortium had been embroiled in an arbitration suit with the Guyana Government over a US$50 million claim being made by the contractor for delays in other aspects of the project that affected the timely delivery of the GtE facility. But according to Minister Bharrat, these issues have been sorted out, and the Government is working with the contractor to have the project completed in the new year. “We would have loved to have that project completed by the ending of this year at least. However, we’re working with the company – there were a few issues well-ventilated in the media with that company… I’m happy to say all the issues have been sorted and the company is working. And they’ve
made a commitment that they’re going to actually add more hours to their workdays so that the project can be completed in the new time frame given,” the Natural Resources Minister told reporters at the launch of the Guyana Energy Conference & Supply Chain Expo (GECSCE) 2026 on Friday.
Round-the-clock operations Only back in October, it was
the majority of equipment for the project will be here,” Project Coordinator Winston Brassington had indicated to the Head of State. Moreover, it was also revealed that Lindsayca Guyana had already moved into round-the-clock operations with a man camp constructed on-site so that the work can be accelerated as well as the doubling up of engineers and the labour force. “The contractor, the consultant and the project team
Project is just one component of the Guyana Government’s industrialisation vision for the country. It will be used to power the Wales Development Zone (WDZ) – an industrial and manufacturing hub that will be built on approximately 1400 acres of land, where plans are afoot to construct a fertiliser plant, data centres, agro-processing industries and light manufacturing facilities.
Minister Bharrat, at Friday’s
reported that works have intensified at the GtE Project site, as the contractor moves to have all four gas turbines installed on-site by the end of December. At the time, President Dr Irfaan Ali had conducted a site visit to witness the final cement pour for the foundation base of the last of four turbines.
“The work is progressing from the power plant to the substation in the north and then around to the NGL plant. With the foundations being poured, the four gas turbines should be laid in the foundations by December, and a lot of the heavy equipment brought in and placed in foundations. Most of the equipment for the project is already manufactured, and a lot of it is in the country…[more] is being shipped right now. And so, by early January,
– one of the things that they’re committing to is working 24-7, increasing not only the man hours but the manpower itself. The engineering and labour force here will more than double in the coming weeks so that we can get back on a timeline as quickly as possible,” President Ali had stated. At the time of the visit in October, there were about 400 persons working on-site, and according to an official from Lindsayca, “Our target is to finish this project next year.” The power plant and NGL facility are just Phase One of the GtE Project. The second phase will see another 300 MW power plant and NGL facility constructed at the same Wales site, utilising the rich gas from offshore.
Manufacturing sector
The highly anticipated GtE
Energy Conference launch, noted that the flagship event provides the platform to highlight not just the oil and gas sector but the expansion of all the sectors in Guyana. “We are speaking about building out new sectors to support the oil and gas sector and the others too, like ICT (Information and Communication Technology).
Manufacturing will probably be a highlight of this conference, especially with the Gas-to-Energy Project being in its advanced stage to date… The gas is actually ready to be delivered to the power plant. That power plant is under construction. So, as soon as the plant is finished, then we will definitely have cheaper, more reliable electricity from that facility at Wales,” the Minister noted.
While he noted that manufacturing will be one of the most crit-
ical areas that any investor or any investment coming into the country, or even local investors, should look at, the Natural Resources Minister recognised that one of the major hindrances to the local manufacturing sector is the high cost of electricity that drives up production cost – something that will be rid of when the GtE Project comes on stream. “We should look at manufacturing as the next big thing in Guyana because it brings so much value to a country. It brings so much benefits to a country. It creates so much opportunities for direct and indirect employment, so much opportunities for the private sector to expand their operation. It saves the country valuable foreign currency. We can be a major exporter of products rather than importing those products…”
Gas development
In addition to manufacturing, the Natural Resources Minister believes that the development of Guyana’s natural gas resources is also expected to be one of the buzz topics at the upcoming GECSCE 2026.
“This conference, I believe, will be one of the biggest… It has grown from strength to strength over the last four years. And I'm sure we can expect nothing short of that in 2026. I can tell you it will be a really defining conference, especially in the context that now we are going to move towards developing our gas resources. And there have been a lot of interest now on gas.”
This view was also shared by President of ExxonMobil Guyana, Alistair Routledge, who recalled the excitement and interest that were generated back in February at this year’s Energy Conference after sharing the company’s vision for not just oil production but also gas development in Guyana. In fact, Routledge anticipates that next year’s event will further heighten the interest in Guyana’s push to develop its offshore resources, including gas, as well as continue the vital conversations on what is needed to propel the industry and the country forward.
Working hours have been extended at the Gas-to-Energy Project site to meet the new deadline
(L-R) Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat and ExxonMobil Guyana President Alistair Routledge at Friday’s launch of the Guyana Energy Conference & Supply Chain Expo 2026
The Gas-to-Energy Project site at Wales, West Bank Demerara
Roots…
…in oil
Your Eyewitness has a soft spot for Ghana and as such was quite chuffed that a Ghanaian company will be signing along the dotted line this Tuesday to develop one of the oilfields – Block S7 – that had been auctioned off in 2022!! Cybele Energy is the company, and it’s headquartered in Accra, the capital of Ghana. It was founded in 2012 by the US-educated Beatrice Mensah Tayui, whose bio says she specialises in acquiring “marginal O&G fields”!! She appears to be more of a speculator and had originally made its bid along with an American company, Liberty – which seems to’ve dropped out.
Your Eyewitness hopes that – since all of the contract’s terms are gonna match those of the recent one with Total Energies – the royalty rate of 10 per cent, up from two per cent; cost recovery ceiling reduced from 75 per cent to 65 per cent; the 10 per cent corporate tax; and the 50-50 profit share – the BONUS is gon’ also match Total’s US$15M bonus!! The last your Eyewitness had heard about Cybele’s bid was that the Ministry of Natural Resources was conducting due diligence checks on the source of funding, etc. The bonus payment should be a good indicator – since it doesn’t appear Cybele’s got a particularly stellar record in actual O&G exploration!!
Ghana had struck oil in 2007 – their Jubilee Anniversary year – while we did so in 2015, a year ahead of our Jubilee Anniversary year. In addition to our similar-sounding name, we’ve got lots more things in common with Ghana – you’d think we’re “doppelgangers” – you know, real-life doubles. The resemblance goes as old and deep as our geological formation, 140 million years ago when we were actually joined together!! What’s now Africa separated and drifted apart to form the Atlantic Ocean – which is giving us oil today from under its depths. During the colonial period, Ghana was known as the “Gold Coast”, and we were the “Mosquito Coast” – but with El Dorado in our interior!!
In both instances great expectations were engendered in our long-suffering populace about improving our miserable lot. But with Ghana a decade ahead of us in oil production, maybe their doppelganger experience can offer us a clue of what’s ahead? Their first oil contracts were negotiated by some expatriate Ghanaians with a US oil company, but the incoming administration later accused them of corruption and re-examined the contracts!!
The Ghana National Petroleum Corporation – formed to oversee the nation’s oil interests – is regularly overshadowed by the Energy Ministry, especially when oil contracts are to be signed!! Contracts are regularly doled out to politically connected persons, but because the Government changes with regularity between the two major parties, there’s a continuous disruption of sustained development.
We gotta be careful with speculators!!
…and work
As your (conscientious) Eyewitness scours the dailies –and his social media feeds – for signs of life in the Opposition, he got two mentions. There was PNC’s Parliamentary leader – Chicken Man – fresh from the bruises his ego suffered after his low-down body-shaming taunts at LG Minister Priya were called out by even PNC supporters!! It wasn’t that he’d arranged a giveaway of chicken wings (even!) from some of his chicken joints!! He wants Pressie to IMMEDIATELY announce he’s gonna dole out at least a $150,000 grant to every Guyanese for Christmas!! That –of course – includes himself, and maybe that explains the touch of hysteria your Eyewitness discerned in his voice!! Gotta have his chicken fix for Christmas!!
Then there’s the always energetic PNC MP Mahipal. He actually called for the Parliamentary Sectoral Committees to get going and start keeping tabs on the PPP!! Now this is real Parliamentary work and calls for attending meetings, demanding and studying reports on what’s going on – and then issuing reports!! Sanction Man trembling!!
…and indignation
The AG noted the weeping and wailing and gnashing of teeth by the Opposition – especially from WIN and their Scrapes – at the PPP. He wondered why no moral outrage at having a tax cheat as LOO!!
Guyana projected to end 2025 with 20% surge in visitor arrivals
– 42,306 visitor arrivals recorded in October; 28.9% increase over 2024
Guyana’s tourism momentum continues its unprecedented rise, with President Dr Irfaan Ali announcing record-breaking visitor arrival numbers that place 2025 on track to become the strongest tourism year in the country’s history.
Speaking at the launch of the One Guyana Christmas Village and Supermarket along Main Street Avenue, President Ali revealed the newest tourism performance figures, which showed that October 2025 alone welcomed approximately 42,306 visitors – a staggering 28.9 per cent increase compared to October 2024.
“We have just received the latest visitor arrivals report for January to October 2025, and the results confirm what we have been seeing on the ground,” the President told the gathering. “The data shows that we have already surpassed the entire 2024 arrival. October 2025 was
especially outstanding, registering a remarkable 28.9 per cent year-on-year jump and welcoming approximately 42,306 visitors in October alone.” The strong October performance was part of an equally impressive trend seen across the year. According to President Ali, visitor arrivals between January and October reflected a 24 per cent increase over the corresponding period in 2024, indicating that Guyana’s tourism sector continues to expand at a rapid pace. “Overall, the January–October period reflected a strong 24 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024,” he stated, noting that the country’s tourism product – from hospitality to nature-based travel to event-driven arrivals – continues to attract global interest.
President Ali said if the current trend continues, Guyana is poised to close 2025 with an overall 20 per cent growth in total visi-
tor arrivals, the highest annual total ever recorded.
“And if current trends hold, Guyana is projected to close December 2025 with at least a 20 per cent overall rise in arrivals,” the President declared. “This will be the highest annual total in our country’s tourism history and reinforces the view that Guyana’s moment on the world stage is here and is being built stronger and stronger.” The President’s
announcement comes as Guyana continues to position itself as a premier ecotourism and investment destination, supported by expanded airlift, significant hotel development and yearround events that attract regional and international travellers.
Flights and hotels
Improvements in access to Guyana have played a major role in visitor arriv-
als. The nation welcomed air services such as Dominican Republic air carrier Sky Cana, British Airways, Inter-Caribbean Airways, Jet Blue, Fly Always, Suriname Airways and recently, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, in just five years.
In February 2023, Fly Always began flights from Guyana to Barbados, Cuba, Jamaica and Suriname. This was followed by British Airways, which began its
twice-weekly operations in March, providing a direct connection from the United Kingdom (UK) and Europe.
Additionally, the rising surge can be attributed to the expansion of room capacity at several hotels, with construction ongoing on the Pasha Global, Sheraton Four Points and Blue Bridge Inc. Two internationally branded hotels, Aiden by Best Western and the Royal Hotel, opened in 2024, bringing 400 new rooms to the country. The trend is expected to continue in the coming years with additional hotels being completed, significantly expanding the country’s accommodation capacity. Other contributing factors are the number of tourism products that are now available for tourists to experience countrywide.
The Government’s strong investments and sound policies have greatly helped the tourism sector, making Guyana a top travel destination.
The Trump Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine
The Trump Administration has just formulated and published a new “US National Security Strategy” (US NSS) that tweaks the realist school of foreign policy’s focus on its statist, sovereign-first, interestfirst survival and self-help into “Flexible Realism”. “US policy… will seek good relations and peaceful commercial relations with the nations of the world without imposing on them democratic or other social change that differs widely from their traditions and histories.”
Ravi Dev
It explains the actions of the US since it took office and, very critically for us in Guyana, its pivot away from the rest of the world to refocus on the Western Hemisphere as their number one priority. The NSS explicitly establishes the latter by declaring that it “wants a hemisphere that remains free from hostile foreign incursion or ownership of key assets and that supports key supply chains, and we want to ensure access to key strategic locations. In other words, we will assert and enforce a 'Trump Corollary' to the Monroe Doctrine." Militarily, this means "a readjustment of our global military presence to address urgent threats in our hemisphere and away from theatres whose relative import to American national security has declined in recent decades or years."
For Guyana, because of the first law of geography –“everything is related to everything else, but near things are more related than distant things” – clearly we will be impacted by the US’s unapologetic revival of the Monroe Doctrine, shorn of its old idealistic rhetoric of democracy and institution building. Its actions against Venezuela, for instance, have now been articulated as directed against narco-trafficking to the US, which all concede is not as large as from Colombia or Ecuador. The NSS now stated objective to “deny non-Hemispheric competitors control over strategic assets” more realistically explains the actions in view of Venezuela having the largest oil reserves in the world. This clause would also affect how the US views investment or partnerships in Guyana from non-American – especially Chinese – sources when it comes to ports, infrastructure, offshore assets, and naturalresource projects such as in oil, gold or manganese. China, which was previously defined as the primary military threat to the US, in the new dispensation the former is now more of an economic competitor, a source of supply chain vulnerabilities and a player whose regional dominance should be "ideally" denied because it "has major implications for the US economy".
In the near and medium term, the US will clearly view us as a relevant partner in its hemisphere posture in general and visà-vis Venezuela in particular, especially for maritime surveillance, operations, or as a strategic gateway. Indeed, outside analysts and observers have pointed out that US strategy could make Guyana a more integrated node in their hemispheric security architecture. This writer has proposed we establish a military base in Essequibo to which the US can have access since, fortuitously, because of Venezuela’s demonstrated insistence to annex two-thirds of our national territory (Essequibo), our interests at this time coincide. But once there is regime change in Venezuela to satisfy US interests, our interests may diverge, since annexation is a constant in Venezuela’s strategic culture and the US has now explicitly jettisoned idealistic notions like democratic compatibility from its foreign policy. However, for the next thirty years, Exxon’s exploitation of our Stabroek Block should be a deterrence to new Venezuelan adventurism, rather than any ICJ judgement, which will be more moral than anything else.
The NSS explicitly declares that the US will “enlist established friends” in the Hemisphere to handle shared regional challenges – for example, controlling migration, stopping narcotics or drug flows, suppressing organised crime/cartels, and improving security across borders. The US describes us as a strategic ally, so we should see increased US engagement based on their expectations on security cooperation, intelligence and maritime collaboration. We, however, should press for economic incentives or investments such as the Gas-to-Shore industrialisation hub as quid pro quos. The limits on “external influence” will be tricky since we already have diverse investment partners – read China – that will create diplomatic, economic, and sovereigntymanagement challenges.
The US aggressive posture toward drug trafficking and cartel/“narco-terrorist” networks – including the use of lethal force – has raised legal, human-rights and regional-sovereignty concerns, and some claim it has violated international norms. Trinidad has fervently supported the moves based on their own experience and interests, and we will have to also take a stand.
Cuban national fatally stabbed in broad daylight robbery
– residents say attackers struck during blackout as neighbourhood surveillance cameras were down
A48-year-old Cuban na-
tional was stabbed to death on Saturday afternoon along Middle Road, La Penitence, Georgetown, in what Police and residents believe was a calculated attack carried out during a brief power outage in the area. The victim has been identified as Ariel Betancourt Ramírez, who lived just a short distance from where he collapsed.
When this publication visited the scene, residents recalled hearing “a little fumbling” and unusual noises outside around 14:00h and thought it was horses. Before they could process what was happening, they looked out and saw Ramírez struggling with two men on bicycles.
According to one neighbour, the attackers cornered him, and he tried desperately to fight them off.
“He was fighting back,” a resident recounted. Moments later, witnesses saw Ramírez clutch his chest, stumble, and collapse on the roadway as the two suspects rode off.
It was later confirmed that Ramírez sustained two stab wounds to the chest. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators also recovered a blood-stained knife from a nearby drain, believed to be the murder weapon.
CCTV footage from the National Command Centre, however, showed the two suspects riding past the victim before circling back and attacking him. The footage
then captured them fleeing to the west, with one discarding the knife.
Residents told reporters that the attack appeared timed. They explained that around that period, the street is usually lonely, and on Saturday, the area was in the midst of a blackout.
Several surveillance cameras in the neighbourhood were down, creating what one resident described as “the perfect opportunity” for criminals.
Neighbours said Ramírez followed a strict daily routine. Each morning, he would walk out to drop his reputed wife off at work, and every afternoon, around the same time, he would leave home to pick her up from
the area as a protective measure. Residents believe the bandits may have targeted him because he was reportedly wearing jewellery at the time.
The moments after the stabbing were described as chaotic and heart-breaking. One woman said when she ran outside, she found Ramírez still breathing but struggling for air.
“He was gasping… I saw him take his last four breaths,” she said. She immediately called 911 and the ambulance service but claimed she was placed on hold while precious minutes passed.
“I wanted to put him in a car and rush him to the hospital,” she explained, “but
other residents told me not to touch him because the Police say you can make the injuries worse. So, all we could do was watch him trying to breathe. And then he just gasped and stopped. Imagine 911 put me on hold…they need to do better.”
The two suspects remain at large. Police have launched a manhunt and are canvassing the area for additional CCTV footage and witnesses. Meanwhile, residents say they are shaken by the brazenness of the attack and are calling for swift arrests.
“We don’t feel safe anymore,” one resident said. “If they could do something like this in broad daylight during blackout, just so… then none of us is safe.”
The body of Ariel Betancourt Ramírez is at the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home as investigations continue.
Dead: Ariel Betancourt Ramírez
ERC spreads Christmas cheer to Region 3 students
The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) on Friday, December 5, extended its annual Christmas Toy Distribution Drive, bringing festive cheer to five schools across Region Three for the 2025 holiday season.
As part of its ongoing commitment to fostering peace, harmony and good relations among all Guyanese, the Commission is using this season to connect with the younger generation and share in the joy and meaning of Christmas, the ERC noted in its Saturday press release, as it continues
to affirm that the spirit of spreading joy and kindness is central to our Guyanese identity and transcends every ethnic, cultural and geographic boundary.
The ERC’s team, which included Commissioners Dwayne Adams, Ashton Simon, Ras Khafra, Pt Krishn Sharma and Norris Witter, along with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Gomin Camacho and secre-
tariat staff, visited Parika Back Nursery, Parika Nursery, Crane Nursery, Vreed-en-Hoop Nursery No. 2 and Stewartville Primary to distribute toys to pupils. The Christmas season, it stated, provides a timely opportunity for the Commission to reinforce the values of unity, love, and generosity.
Through this initiative, the ERC says, it aims not only to brighten the holidays for children but also to demonstrate that acts of kindness
continue to be the threads that bind our diverse nation together. The Commission remains committed to promoting ethnic harmony and secu-
rity throughout Guyana and extends warm season’s greetings to all families and teachers across the country, the statement added.
PM commissions
Phillips added that between 2026 and 2031, Government plans to build out a further 100-MW of renewable energy systems across the coastline and hinterland, even as large-scale hydropower and battery storage projects are pursued.
Part of a broader rollout Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GPL, Kesh Nandlall, also speaking at the commissioning on
Saturday, said the project marks an important milestone in Guyana’s transition to cleaner and more resilient energy, noting that the farm comprises 4,928 solar modules mounted on corrosion-resistant struc-
tures and supported by eight high-efficiency inverters. The plant, he added, is engineered to withstand winds of up to 240 km/h and is tied into the Demerara–Berbice Interconnected System via a newly-constructed 30.8-kV
spur line feeding the Enfield F3 sub-feeder at 13.8-kV. Nandlall explained that Prospect is part of a broader roll-out of eight utility-scale solar farms totalling 33-MW across Regions Two, Five and Six. These include 8-MW in Region Two, 10-MW across Regions Five and Six, including the 5-MW farm on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) and the 3-MW facility recently commissioned Saturday, along with a 15-MW solar plant set for Region Ten (Linden) next year. He pointed out that this coastal programme builds on earlier hinterland solar farms at Lethem, Bartica, Mabaruma and
its transmission and distribution network as part of a smart-grid plan for 2030. The PM echoed that message, saying that Guyana’s energy transition goes beyond power generation to focus on building people. He urged young people; especially women, to consider careers in renewable energy, solar technology, battery integration and digital monitoring systems, noting that these are the skills that will define the next 50 years of energy innovation. Turning specifically to Region Six, Phillips said the 3-MW Prospect Solar Farm will feed clean, stable power into a corridor that is al-
Mahdia, along with the 750-kW system at Leguan, which together have already displaced over 15,000 drums of diesel up to the end of October. Nandlall noted that 31 women have already been certified in solar photovoltaic (PV) installation through the GUYSOL training programme, while 20 apprentices – including persons living with disabilities, have received hands-on training in energy systems. Many of these trainees, he said, are expected to be offered employment opportunities with GPL to operate and maintain the solar farms.
“This is not only strengthening our technical capacity, but it ensures that the benefits of Guyana’s energy transition are shared widely,” the GPL CEO said, adding that the company is simultaneously upgrading substations and expanding
ready seeing rapid housing expansion, growing commercial activity and new industrial ventures. “An installation of this scale strengthens not only the grid, but also Region Six’s economic potential. The Prospect Solar Farm is both a symbol and a statement, a symbol of how far we have come and a statement of how far we intend to go as a people and as a nation,” the PM stated. He reiterated that Government will continue to build hydropower in the interior, expand solar farms on the coast, develop storage systems, and complete the GtE Project, all guided by a single mission: “That no community, no household and no business is left behind as electricity demand continues to grow and as a Government, we intend to ensure that demand is met,” the PM committed.
Region Two RDC hosts annual Christmas Tree Light-Up
The Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) on Friday evening hosted its annual Christmas Tree Light-Up at the park opposite the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) in Anna Regina. The event brought together families, community leaders, and children for an evening of festive celebration.
The programme featured a vibrant line-up of songs, poems, dances and Christmas greetings from various groups across the region. Cultural presentations by youth groups
nal number was called, the Christmas tree burst to life illuminated with brilliant lights. The reindeer decorations surrounding the tree also lit up, creating a magical scene that had families reaching for their phones and cameras. This year’s event also included a specially designed photo booth and a festive picture frame, both beautifully decorated, giving attendees a perfect spot to capture their holiday memories. Parents and children lined up for photos throughout the evening, adding to the lively atmosphere.
During brief remarks,
and schools added colour to the night, while the audience enjoyed a variety of other entertaining performances that captured the spirit of the season. One of the major highlights of the event was the enthusiastic anticipation of Santa Claus and sharing of gift and goodies. Children gathered at the front of the crowd, eagerly waiting for his arrival, and their excitement grew with every passing minute.
As the countdown began, their voices filled the air, and when the fi-
Regional Chairman Devin Mohan extended warm Christmas greetings to all residents of Region Two. He noted that the annual tree light-up brings families, communities and cultures together, reminding everyone of the season’s message of hope, kindness and togetherness. Mohan commended the RDC staff, performers and volunteers for their hard work in creating a festive atmosphere, and encouraged residents to continue supporting each other as the holiday season unfolds.
Meanwhile, Regional Executive Officer Susan Saywack also extend Christmas greetings to
the residents and also expressed words of appreciation for the strong turnout and praised the collabo-
rative effort that made the celebration a success. She noted that the annual light-up continues to
grow each year, reflecting the unity and community spirit of the region during the Christmas season.
Regional Executive Officer Susan Saywack speaking at the event
Gun, ammo found on East La Penitence man attempting to evade Police
An intelligence-led operation at East La Penitence Front Road, Georgetown, on Friday has led to the discovery of an illegal firearm and several rounds of matching ammunition.
Police say that during the operation, ranks observed a motor car parked along the roadway, and as ranks approached the vehicle, a male exited and attempted to run.
However, he was subsequently apprehended, and during a search of his person, a .32 pistol was found hidden in his pants along with a magazine containing six live rounds of matching ammunition.
As such, the suspect, a 29-year-old security guard of East La Penitence Front
A gun and ammunition were found on the suspect.
Road, was arrested and taken to the East La Penitence Police Station as investigations continue.
A search was conducted on the motor car, but nothing illegal was found.
Security officer nabbed with ganja in “long boots”
A37-year-old security officer from Klien Pouderoyen, West Coast Demerara (WCD), was arrested following the discovery of a quantity of cannabis along the Mazaruni River, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), on Friday.
Based on reports received, Police were conducting a riverine patrol in the Mazaruni River between the Bartica Stelling and the Mazaruni Prison when they intercepted a vessel.
However, while conducting searches on the security officer and his belongings, two bulky parcels of ganja were found concealed in a pair of “long boots” belonging to him.
As such, he was escorted to the Bartica Police Station, where the cannabis was weighed and amounted to 674 grams.
The suspect remains in custody as investigations continue.
The two parcels discovered in the “long boots”
ECD Road expansion reaches 84% completion
The Ministry of Public Works has announced that construction on the US$192 million East Coast Demerara Road Widening and Improvement Project is progressing steadily, with overall works now 84 per cent complete. According to a Department of Public Information (DPI) news
report, the Ministry of Public Works said that significant strides have been made along the Railway Embankment corridor between Sheriff Street and the Ogle Roundabout, where the asphalt surface has been fully paved.
The Ministry said the newly laid roadway will offer commuters a smoother and more durable driving experience.
The next phase of work in this section includes road markings, the installation of traffic lights and signs, and new lighting for the four-lane carriageway.
These final works will prepare the corridor for full use as construction continues eastward.
Beyond the paved sections, reconstruction is on-
going on several key bridges at Plaisance, Success, La Bonne Intention (LBI), Mon Repos and Foulis.
The bridge at Foulis is already “substantially complete”, with only approach and railing works outstanding.
Bridge works began in November and are scheduled for completion by January 2026.
The China Railway First Group Company
Limited is executing the project. It involves expanding the Railway Embankment road into a four-lane highway from Sheriff Street to Enmore.
The project will also see the construction of a new four-lane road from Enmore to Orange Nassau, Mahaica.
It encompasses a comprehensive reconstruction of the entire Railway Embankment’s alignment,
which includes the construction of 42 new bridges and 77 culverts, of which 29 bridges and 70 culverts have been completed. Once completed, the project will significantly enhance connectivity along the stretch. It will also facilitate easing the traffic congestion, promoting easier commuting and investments through improved accessibility.
(DPI photos)
The vast world of chemistry may seem complex to many, but for Rajendranauth Deonarine, it has always felt like home – an endless universe of formulas, reactions, and possibilities waiting to be understood.
Today, after years of disciplined study, unwavering humility, and steadfast perseverance, he stands proudly as the Best Graduating Student of the University of Guyana’s Berbice Campus (UGBC), earning a Bachelor of Education (Science) degree with a concentration in Chemistry and a flawless 4.0 GPA.
But behind the accolades is a quiet young man from #70 Village, Corentyne –known by those around him as “Little Messiah” – who never expected such recognition.
Rajendranauth serves as an assistant master at Skeldon Line Path Secondary School, where he balances his love for teaching with his personal passion for learning. For him, choosing the University of Guyana was not simply a matter of convenience – it was purposeful.
“I love Science, especially Chemistry,” he explained.
“On the Chemistry side, I wanted that in-depth understanding of the concepts. On the education side, the EDU programme helped me develop the pedagogy, so I can deliver it better to the children.”
He speaks about teaching with the same passion others might reserve for a lifelong dream. His goal is simple: understand deeply so he can teach clearly.
Though his academic performance was exceptional, the road was far from easy. The most challenging part of his degree?
“Academic research was the most difficult,” he admitted. “The entire process is really tough. It was the first big research I ever did. My study was on the impact of multimedia technology on the mole concept.”
The project pushed him to his limits, but it also revealed something essential about him: his ability to
lean on his passions during stress.
“I play the drums,” he shared. “When I was having difficulties, I would just play my instrument and then go back to my work.”
For him, the drums were not only a pastime – they were therapy.
Like many students, the transition into university life revealed new strengths.
“All my Science courses and most of what I had to do were face-to-face,” he said. “I love the face-to-face. I prefer it over online.”
His lecturers, he added, were instrumental in guiding him, particularly in the demanding field of science education.
“I must give thanks to all my lecturers because without them, this would not have been possible,” he affirmed. “Without the
students of the Faculty of Education and Humanities and the Faculty of Natural Sciences, I would not have been here.”
At the heart of Rajendranauth’s journey is his wife, Naveena Ramlall, whose belief in him never wavered. When he speaks about her, his voice softens.
According to him, his wife has been a constant pillar of strength throughout his academic journey. She is his “go-to person” and his “rock”, always offering encouragement when he needed it most. He noted that when he shared the news of his achievement with her, she reacted with even more excitement than he did. His brother also played a crucial role.
“My brother is very supportive. He helped me financially whenever I needed
something – even software to get my work done; he would purchase it for me.”
The journey to excellence is never a solo effort, and Rajendranauth is quick to acknowledge the individuals who helped make the path easier. He spoke highly of his long-time friend, Ajay Permaul, describing him as “a true friend” who was always ready to assist. Whenever he encoun-
tered technical issues, Ajay – who is a Mathematics major – would help him resolve them without hesitation.
He also credited Shelieze Ibrahim, a teacher at Skeldon Line Path Secondary School, for her unwavering confidence in his potential. From the very beginning of his studies, she believed he would one day become the Best Graduating Student of UGBC. According to him, her
early and consistent belief in his success was a powerful source of inspiration.
For students embarking on their own academic journeys, his advice is honest and practical.
“UG is not an easy experience,” he said. “You have to be very disciplined and very persistent with what you do. Just do your work and everything will come out okay.”
Rajendranauth Deonarine, UGBC’s Best Graduating Student, with his wife, Naveena Ramlall
GGDMA tells miners to increase declarations as country pushes to meet 2025 gold targets
The Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) has issued a renewed call for miners to ramp up their gold declarations as the country works to meet its 2025 national production targets. In a statement released on Friday, the Association emphasised that the strength and sustainability of the mining sector rest on full compliance, transparent transactions, and a firm refusal to support illegal trading channels. According to the GGDMA, miners must ensure that all gold is sold solely to the Guyana Gold Board (GGB) or to authorised buyers approved by the relevant authorities. These authorised buyers include dealers licensed by the GGB and licensed traders sanctioned by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC).
The Association warned that selling to unregulated purchasers, including “roving traders” and those operating at illegal landings, continues to fuel gold smug-
gling networks that deprive the country of significant tax and royalty revenues and often serve as gateways to other criminal activities.
The GGDMA further urged miners to safeguard their own interests by maintaining proper records of every transaction. It said miners should demand official documentation whenever selling gold, request periodic statements from their licensed dealers, and take those statements to the Gold Board to verify that the declarations recorded by buyers accurately match the Board’s records. The Association stressed that this verification process is crucial to ensuring that miners’ production is properly accounted for and that taxes are correctly paid to the State.
In its statement, the GGDMA also reminded miners that it is illegal to pay workers with gold, cautioning against what is commonly known in the sector as the “Blai box”, where gold is distributed informally as pay-
ment. The Association reiterated that gold can only be used for transactions with authorised dealers and the Guyana Gold Board.
Calling on legitimate operators to distance themselves from “rogue elements”, the Association said miners must not allow themselves to be associated with individuals who masquerade as small miners while engaging in illegal mining and smuggling. It said such practices “have no place in Guyana” and undermine both the sector and national development.
The GGDMA noted that the current administration has reinstated several incentives that support the mining industry and said it is therefore imperative that miners reciprocate by ensuring full and honest declarations. The Association reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the government’s efforts to expand legal production, improve compliance, and crack down on illegal operations within the sector.
According to the GGDMA, decisive action is necessary to eliminate illegal mining activities and the proliferation of unauthorised shops, which it said often contribute to a chain of other illicit practices. The Association pledged to continue working with the relevant authorities to strengthen oversight, increase gold declarations, and help Guyana meet its national targets for 2025.
44 GPF ranks graduate from IDCE
Forty-four ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) graduated Friday from the University of Guyana (UG)’s Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE Extra-Mural), according to the GPF on its social media page.
The Force congratulated the 44 and stressed that the occasion highlighted its continued commitment to develop its human resources and strengthen its capacity
to better serve the people of Guyana under its Strategic Plan 2022-2026 pillar “Developing our People”.
Present at the graduation ceremony were Head of Strategic Planning Unit for Implementation and Police Reform, Woman Senior Superintendent Dr Nicola Kendall; Director of the Guyana Police Force Academy, Woman Senior Superintendent Sonia Herbert; and Superintendent of Police, Attorney at Law
Delon Fraser, all of whom have been instrumental in supporting the academic advancement of ranks.
The Guyana Police Force continues to build and strengthen its partnership with UG as part of its ongoing efforts to empower the men and women in uniform. The organisation holds strongly that education and training are needed to enhance the quality of service and protection offered to our nation, it noted in its post.
Guyana Defence Force (GDF)’s Second Lieutenant Travis Adams has successfully completed the Brazilian Jungle Operations Course 25/3 category B, conducted by the Brazilian Army, in Manaus, Brazil.
According to the GDF in its social media post, the course was conducted under the command and instruction of the renowned Centro de Instrução de Guerra na Selva (CIGS), Brazil’s premier Jungle Warfare Instruction Centre.
Designed to provide specialised training for platoon and battalion commanders, the Jungle Warfare Course equips leaders with the skills and confidence required to guide their troops through every aspect of jungle operations.
This year’s cohort began with 48 officers, from captain to second lieutenant, and successfully concluded with 35 graduates.
2Lt Adams, the GDF noted, distinguished himself as the only foreign student to complete the rigorous programme, which required exceptional endurance, discipline, and adaptability. The training covered jungle survival, tactical operations, advanced jungle craft, and numerous physically demanding tasks conducted under intense environmental conditions.
His exemplary performance reflects not only his personal resilience and professionalism but also the high standards upheld by the Guyana Defence Force, it added.
As a Special Forces Officer, his advanced training in jungle survival, recon-
naissance, and small-unit tactical operations directly enhances the GDF’s ability to operate effectively within Guyana’s dense interior terrain, an environment that closely mirrors the demanding conditions of the Amazon.
The specialised competencies he acquired, such as advanced land navigation, survival under extreme conditions, and superior jungle craft, significantly strengthen the battalion’s capacity to execute special operations, conduct search and rescue missions, support border security patrols, counter illicit activities, and respond rapidly to emerging threats.
His achievement, the GDF noted, therefore represented a strategic benefit to the Force’s overall operational readiness.
This accomplishment further reinforces the value of the longstanding partnership between the Guyana
Defence Force and the Brazilian Army, a relationship rooted in mutual respect, shared expertise, and continuous professional development. Through collaborative training opportunities such as the Jungle Warfare Course, both militaries benefit from enhanced interoperability, strengthened operational cooperation, and the exchange of advanced tactics and knowledge.
The success of officers like 2Lt Adams reaffirms the importance of these engagements, which elevate individual competency while advancing the collective readiness and effectiveness of both nations’ defence forces.
The Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, along with the officers and ranks of the Guyana Defence Force, extended its sincere congratulations to 2Lt Adams on his outstanding achievement.
Second Lieutenant Travis Adams
GWI to improve water supply systems along ECD corridor
The Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), in a press release, declared that it is advancing a series of transformational upgrades along the East Coast Demerara (ECD) corridor to significantly enhance the quality, reliability, and reach of potable water service to thousands of residents. Substantial improvements have been made to the Friendship Water Treatment Plant, which is designed to supply communities from Strathspey to Buxton. These upgrades include the installation of a new generator set to guarantee continuous production during power fluctuations, as well as the addition of new filters to improve overall treatment efficiency and water quality, the entity noted.
To further strengthen service delivery, GWI is currently drilling a new well at Friendship to boost the plant’s production capacity and ensure a consistent wa-
soon experience measurable upgrades in water pressure, continuity and quality.
As part of GWI’s coastal modernisation programme, a brand-new water treatment plant has been constructed at Bachelor’s Adventure. This facility is scheduled to be commissioned soon and will significantly improve treated water coverage from Coldigen to Nabaclis. In addition to the major works at Friendship and Bachelor’s Adventure, a new well is now in the testing phase at Annandale, and works have been completed for a new well which was drilled at La Bonne Intention (LBI), the GWI informed.
To complement these upgrades, the utility company has also commenced drilling a new well at Mon Repos, and a site has been identified for a well to be drilled at Better Hope. These wells are expected to stabilise
ter supply across the distribution network. According to the brief, GWI’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Shaik Baksh, accompanied by members of a technical team, recently visited several GWI facilities along the ECD Corridor to assess the progress of various improvements that are being made to the water infrastructure. The team expressed confidence that residents will
Police say electric
Police are expressing growing concern over what they describe as a dangerous surge in wrongway traffic caused by electric motorcycle riders, many of whom, they say, are habitually ignoring Guyana’s road laws.
Officers from Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara) say the problem has now become so widespread that it contributes daily to collisions, near misses, and congestion on major public roadways.
During a recent road safety programme, Sergeant Tenisha Punch, who is attached to the traffic department in Regional Division #3, explained that electric cycle riders routinely cut across lanes, ride against traffic, and disregard basic
road safety signs.
production, improve water pressure and build resilience within the network, particularly during periods of peak demand.
GWI is preparing to construct a new surface-water treatment plant at Hope which will benefit residents from Cove & John to Cane Grove. This modern facility will significantly expand treated-water coverage and
align with national efforts to deliver high-quality potable water to all households, the GWI release stated.
CEO Shaik Baksh reaffirmed GWI’s commitment to high-quality service, noting that these projects form part of the Government of Guyana’s broader investment in water sector modernisation. “GWI remains focused on ensuring that every community receives reliable access to clean, treated water. These works along the East Coast represent a major step forward as we continue to upgrade infrastructure, expand production and meet the needs
of a rapidly developing region,” the CEO said. Plans are in place for new wells to
be drilled at Non-Pareil and Le Ressouvenir to boost the water supply.
GDF receives 2 new helicopters
As part of its recapitalisation plan, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), earlier Saturday, re-
motorcycles behind surge
“These electric motorcycles, they just ride, and they see a spot to drive over… they just dash over,” she said. According to the officer, when these riders cause collisions, they often refuse to accept responsibility, claiming the lawful drivers are at fault. “Somebody collided with them, and the person – they claim the person is wrong.”
Police say the issue is compounded by a consistent pattern of wrong-way riding. “Most of them do that. Most of them,” the sergeant emphasised, adding that it is rare to find an electric motorcycle rider using the correct side of the roadway.
In many cases, officials believe the behaviour stems from unfamiliarity with
Guyana’s road system.
“I thought it was just the Spanish people… riding on the wrong side… apparently because of the country that they’re coming from. That is the side they normally ride,” the Chairman of the Road Safety Council, Earl Lambert, noted, but stressed that the practice re-
mains illegal in Guyana.
Efforts to educate riders have met little success, with officers saying the riders revert to the wrong side as soon as they pass police.
“As much as you put them on the right side, after they pass you, they come back over,” Punch explained.
in wrong-way road use
The officer added that Guyana’s laws already make provisions for regulating these electric cycles, but the regulations are not yet fully implemented.
“The law is there… they had to get an announcement… but it’s not here,” she said, calling for urgent enforcement and licensing requirements, especially as electric cycles become increasingly common nationwide.
Police say they plan to elaborate further on the issue in upcoming public education campaigns, insisting that the rising number of electric cycles on the road presents a real and immediate threat to road safety.
“You gotta keep educating them… “They’re not in the country, in a differ-
ent country,” one rank said. Officers maintain that until riders comply with the law, wrong-way collisions and traffic disorder will continue to escalate.
In May 2023, there was a passage of several amendments to the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Bill in the National Assembly. E-bike users are now required to follow the same rules as motorcyclists on the road and carry the relevant documents to use the roadways.
In that same year, the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) began registering these e-bikes at the Licence Revenue Office, Lamaha Railway Embankment, Camp and Lamaha Streets, and Integrated Regional Tax Offices (IRTOs) countrywide.
Sergeant Tenisha Punch
ceived two new Bell helicopters, a Bell 407 and a Bell 429. Both aircraft will now undergo certification, and on
completion, will be commissioned into service, the GDF said on its social media page late Saturday.
Govt to standardise all markets in enhancement push
…Leonora Market tarmac to be roofed in 8 weeks
The Government is moving to standardise markets across Guyana, ensuring that every facility meets modern standards in safety, sanitation, and infrastructure.
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand says the goal is to create markets “we can all be proud of”, with solid structures, proper ventilation, excellent sanitation, reliable sanitary facilities, secure premises, functioning drainage, good lighting, and adequate electrical connections.
In a Facebook post on Saturday, the Minister em-
phasised that markets are not only a hub for trade but also a core part of Guyanese culture.
“Markets are necessary both for our cherished vendors and shoppers,” she wrote. “We are currently in the process of making sure ALL our markets have a standard about which we can all be proud.”
She noted that the Government has received numerous complaints from vendors using official market spaces who say they face disadvantages when illegal, ad hoc vending occurs along roadways.
According to Manickchand, such activity is both environmentally hazardous and unsafe, creating
The Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) continues to intensify its efforts to ensure the timely and accountable delivery of serviced house lots to Guyanese families.
On Saturday, CH&PA’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Martin Pertab, led an inspection of ongoing infrastructure works at Phase II of the De Endragt Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara (ECD). He was joined by the Director of Community Development, Gladwin Charles, along with a technical team of engineers and surveyors.
According to the CH&PA, the visit forms part of the agency’s reinforced monitoring strategy aimed at ensuring contractors strictly observe project timelines and accelerate development progress, in keeping with the mandate of President Dr Irfaan Ali.
More than $3 billion is being invested in Phase II of De Endragt for critical infrastructural upgrades, including the construction of roads, bridges, culverts, drainage and pipe networks.
The contractors engaged in these works are Doodnauth Construction and Supplies Inc., Fyuse
risks for vendors, shoppers, and other road users.
“We have seen how environmentally hazardous this is to all stakeholders, and we know how unsafe the roadways become when encumbrances are allowed to occupy highways and roadways,” she said. “Together, we must move to a better, more orderly Guyana.”
Leonora Market
Meanwhile, the Leonora Market will see significant upgrades in the coming weeks.
The currently open-air tarmac will be roofed within the next eight weeks, creating approximately 80 new vending spots. The renovation will also include a food
court, additional sanitary facilities, and a new jewellery section.
These improvements will complement the more than 200 vendors who already occupy the lawfully provided market space on Saturdays, Manickchand said. In fact, photographs shared by the Minister on Facebook show vendors utilising the tarmac in the evenings, demonstrating the importance of keeping vending within designated areas rather than on roadways.
“Distractions from folks who capitalise on vulnerabilities are meant to do just that: distract from a beautiful, clean, orderly Guyana that we know is possible, that our children and gener-
ations deserve,” she wrote.
To top it off, the Minister stressed that the upgrades are part of a broader vision for a fair and predictable market system. Vendors, shoppers, and the public all benefit when markets are safe, orderly, and properly maintained.
Manickchand asked the nation to consider a fundamental question: “What do we want as a country? A clean, orderly system that is fair and predictable? Or one where disorder and chaos prevail and from which no one really benefits in the long run?”
She concluded with a call for unity and focus, urging Guyanese not to be distracted from the goal:
“Together we can, together we must. Together we will. Do not be distracted from what is possible.”
Just last month, Minister Manickchand had emphasised the Ministry’s ongoing work to enhance markets across Guyana, noting that there are approximately 30 public markets nationwide. She explained that the Ministry is working toward implementing a standardised market model that ensures essential elements such as cleanliness and sanitation, orderly and clear walkways, proper waste management, and functional infrastructure, including reliable roofing, lighting, water access, and washroom facilities.
Hoosain Construction Inc, AJM Enterprise, SAWA Investment Inc, Vulcan Group Inc and Surrey Paving & Aggregate Company Guyana Inc, each progressing at different stages, with most contractors now between 75 per cent and 95 per cent completion at their respective lots. During the site visit, Dr Pertab stated that these works are essential to support the sustainability of the scheme. He emphasised, “At the pace we are moving, it is important that these works are completed on time so that allottees can occupy their house lots.” He further cautioned
contractors that failure to meet deadlines or contractual obligations will af-
fect their eligibility for future projects, noting that their performance directly
impacts beneficiaries who are eager to begin building their homes.
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand, amongst other officials from her Ministry, engaging in dialogue
Vendors
CH&PA’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Martin Pertab, and other officials during the inspection
Region 6 RDC councillors wrangle over proposal to scrap "urgent public interest" agenda item
Aproposal to revise the agenda of the Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) Regional Democratic Council (RDC) escalated into a heated confrontation on Thursday, as Councillors sharply disagreed over whether the long-standing item “Matters of Urgent Public Interest” should be removed. The fiery debate unfolded during the first statutory meeting since the newly constituted RDC was sworn in and quickly exposed deep divisions over how Councillors use and, in some cases, misuse the agenda item, which has for years been criticised for facilitating political speeches and non-urgent interventions. The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Councillor Sean Smith, who moved the pro-
posal, argued that the item has become a tool used by some Councillors to bypass the RDC’s subcommittees, where technical work is intended to take place.
According to Smith, several Councillors fail to attend multiple committee meetings, then rely on the “Urgent Public Interest” slot at statutory sittings to introduce issues that should properly be handled at committee level. “This particular item allows complete absenteeism,” Smith said, adding that Councillors routinely miss meetings at the sub-committee level and then attend that RDC where they raise matters under the urgent-interest section. However, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Councillor Colin Moore argued that that removing the item would not
prevent Councillors from speaking at meetings, since issues could still be raised under it. However, Smith said the intention was to encourage full participatory democracy through the committee system, which prepares reports for the full Council’s consideration.
Moore strongly objected, warning that removing the item would effectively silence Councillors who need to address serious developments occurring between meetings.
“A matter can happen today; urgent, and I must be able to speak on that matter,” Moore told the Council. He argued that the proposal would take away a long-recognised right of Councillors to raise pressing issues on behalf of residents.
Moore also questioned the legality of bringing the
motion without prior notice, saying he had not been informed that the issue would be debated at Thursday’s sitting.
“This is not a situation where we can simply wake up one morning and vote on it. There is nothing in the law that says a Councillor must be part of a committee to speak,” Moore reminded the RDC. He insisted that Councillors remain independent and should not be required to participate in specific committees in order to raise matters of public concern. Meanwhile, Regional Chairman Junior Bassant intervened several times to maintain order as the exchange intensified. He acknowledged that the item had been used inappropriately over the years, often for political statements, but
emphasised that the RDC itself is responsible for structuring and modifying its agenda. “To the best of my knowledge, there is no single piece of universal legislation governing this item. This agenda was created by this RDC, and it can be corrected, fashioned and reshaped by this RDC,” Bassant said. He ruled that the proposal would not be put to a vote during January’s meeting. Instead, he directed that it be formally included on the agenda for the next statutory meeting, where it will be fully debated before any vote is taken.
The agenda item “Matters of Urgent Public Interest” has for years been a point of contention within the RDC. Councillors and administrative staff have acknowledged that while the item allows for
rapid intervention on serious issues, it has also been misused to raise matters that are neither urgent nor directly related to governance. In some instances, Councillors have used the item to promote activities connected to political parties or to deliver speeches unrelated to immediate public welfare. Critics say this undermines the RDC’s committee system and creates opportunities for grandstanding. The RDC will revisit the matter at its next statutory meeting, where Councillors from both sides have indicated they intend to present formal arguments. The outcome of that vote is expected to influence how the Council manages debates, committee participation, and the wider flow of business during its term.
PAHO launches Regional Alliance to accelerate HIV elimination in the Americas
The Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), Friday launched the Regional Alliance for HIV Elimination in the Americas, a platform that brings together Governments, communities, international agencies, academia and the private sector to advance measures to reduce new infections and AIDSrelated deaths. According to PAHO, the Americas have made progress against HIV, but challenges persist.
Citing UNAIDS, it noted that in 2024, an estimated 170,000 new infections and 38,000 AIDS-related deaths were recorded. While the Caribbean reduced new infections by 21 per cent from 2010 to 2024, Latin America saw a 13 per cent increase during the same period. Despite advances in diagnosis and treatment, gaps remain in access to
services, especially among populations at higher risk of infection.
“This platform is a call to rethink approaches, rebuild partnerships and strengthen collective action in prevention, diagnosis and treatment, ensuring universal access to innovative, life-saving technologies,” said Monica Alonso, Chief of PAHO’s Unit on HIV, Hepatitis, Tuberculosis and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI). “We must also move toward eliminating the barriers that hinder access to services.”
The alliance focuses on three priority areas in achieving the elimination of HIV as a public health problem in the region: Timely and expanded diagnosis, with an emphasis on scaling up HIV self-testing to facilitate testing; Expansion of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP),
both oral and injectable, including the introduction of Lenacapavir, the first twice-yearly injectable prophylaxis that represents a breakthrough for improving adherence and access for populations at risk; Effective and optimised antiretroviral treatment, which ensures sustained viral suppression and reduced transmission. According to its projections, scaling up the combined use of oral and inject-
able PrEP could reduce new infections by more than 70 per cent over the next four years. If paired with expanded antiretroviral treatment, new infections could drop by more than 90 per cent across Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC).
“Scientific and technological progress achieved in recent years makes it possible to say that HIV elimination is now within reach,” Alonso said. “Biomedical innovation is essential, but so
are policies and enabling social environments that ensure this progress benefits all people equitably,” she added. The Americas have reached historic milestones in the elimination of communicable diseases, including smallpox, polio, measles and rubella and several countries have certified the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis, PAHO said. The region also benefits from mechanisms such as PAHO’s Revolving Funds, which enable access to high-quality medicines, equipment, technologies, and health supplies at affordable prices. The introduction of lenacapavir through regional joint procurement mechanisms offers an opportunity to improve access to innovative technologies and accelerate the elimination of the virus in the region.
Alliance governance
The alliance seeks to position HIV elimination as a regional priority aligned with the Sustainable Health Agenda for the Americas 2018-2030 and with PAHO’s Elimination Initiative. It serves as a multisectoral platform to coordinate efforts, harmonise regulations and promote sustainable financing. PAHO will serve as the technical secretariat of the alliance. In coordination with UNAIDS, the Horizontal Technical Cooperation Group (GCTH), Governments, communities, academia and other partners, PAHO will promote spaces for dialogue, innovation and advocacy to accelerate the introduction of new prevention, diagnosis and treatment tools and to advance toward zero HIV-related deaths by 2030.
PPP/C Councillor Sean Smith
APNU Councillor Colin Moore
Region 6 Chairman Junior Bassant
“Elements” within Cuba have contacted US officials about Maduro, sources say
The US pressure campaign against Venezuela has led “elements within the Cuban regime” to reach out to the US about what the region would look like without President Nicolas Maduro leading Venezuela, two sources familiar with the contacts said on Friday.
The sources, who asked to remain anonymous to describe sensitive information, declined to say who specifically from Cuba had contacted the US
“Elements within the Cuban regime reached out to the US,” a source briefed on the matter said.
“There have been discussions between the two about what the world would look like without a Madu-ro regime.”
A second source confirmed the contacts. Neither source provided further details.
Cuba issued a statement on November 25 accusing the US of seeking a violent overthrow of the Vene-zuelan Government and called the US military build-up in the region an “exaggerated and aggressive” threat.
The dramatic escalation of US firepower in the Latin American region includes the Gerald Ford aircraft carrier strike group plus eight warships, a nuclear submarine and F-35 aircraft.
In the statement, Cuba’s Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez said it would be extremely dangerous and irresponsible for the US to overthrow Maduro’s Government, as well as a
violation of international law and the United Nations Charter.
President Donald Trump spoke recently to Maduro but declined to say what they talked about.
Reuters reported on Monday, citing four sources familiar with the call, that Maduro told Trump he was willing to leave Venezuela if he and his family received full legal amnesty, including removal of US sanctions and the end of a flagship case before the International Criminal Court.
The call followed months of US pressure on Venezuela, including strikes against alleged drug-smuggling boats, threats of military action and the designation of Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terror-ist group. (Reuters)
St Lucia’s Chastanet resigns as UWP leader after election defeat
Allen Chastanet has stepped down as leader of St Lucia’s main opposition party, the United Workers Party (UWP), less than a week after leading the party to its second consecutive general election loss.
Chastanet, 65, a former prime Minister, was the sole UWP candidate to retain a seat in Monday’s vote, which delivered a decisive victory to the ruling St Lucia Labour Party (SLP). Prime Minister Phillip J. Pierre’s SLP won 14 of 17 parliamentary seats, while former prime Minister Stephenson King and Richard Frederick – both independents who served in Pierre’s last administration – also secured their seats.
meeting, Chairman Therold Prudent informed members that he had re-ceived a resignation letter from Chastanet, formally tendering his departure as political leader.
The letter will be presented to the party’s national executive in mid-December for official consideration.
Guam backs BVI push for decolonisation
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) and Guam have signalled closer cooperation on decolonisation after Guam’s Lieutenant Governor Joshua “Josh” Franquez Tenorio made a courtesy call on Premier Dr Na-talio Wheatley during a stopover visit to the territory on December 4.
Both jurisdictions remain on the United Nations list of Non-Self-Governing Territories, which includes territories that have not yet achieved a full measure of self-Government.
Tenorio said Guam wants to strengthen its use of UN mechanisms and welcomed the BVI’s experience within the organisation.
“We recognise that the Virgin Islands has understood the entire UN framework,” he said. “There are some spaces that we have not been a part of that we are entitled to be a part of, and I am looking for-ward to us providing support to each other as we undertake this very important responsibility of ad-dressing the political futures of our jurisdictions.”
Dr Wheatley thanked Tenorio for the engagement and said both territories face similar challenges as they continue to pursue
self-determination within their respective constitutional arrangements. “I want to thank Lieutenant Governor Tenorio for calling on me here in the Virgin Islands,” Premier Wheatley said. “We are brothers and sisters in the struggle for our people being properly recognised and having our right to self-determination protected and promoted.”
“We share many similarities, even though their administering power is the United States and ours is the United Kingdom. What I like about this visit is that it somewhat signals an intention of further en-gagement,” he added.
The visit follows ongoing discussions in the BVI about
constitutional modernisation and engagement with the UN’s Special Committee on Decolonisation. In recent years, BVI leaders have repeatedly called for stronger representation at the UN and clearer pathways to advance the territory’s political development.
Guam’s stopover in the territory comes as both Governments continue to press for greater visibility in UN processes addressing governance, autonomy, and the political rights of non-self-governing peoples.
The courtesy call was hosted at the Premier’s Office and formed part of Tenorio’s travel to a confer-ence in the United States Virgin Islands. (BVI News)
Tobago man in court for tourist murder
A“The UWP remains committed to transparency, democracy, and democratic processes and the contin-ued advancement of its mission of service to the people of St Lucia,” the party said.
In a statement on Friday, the UWP said it held a “critical meeting” – its first since the defeat – to assess the party’s future. During the
The results marked a further setback for the UWP, which won only two seats in the 2021 general elec-tion under Chastanet’s leadership.
Chastanet, who led the country from 2016 to 2021 and has headed the UWP since 2013, has not yet is-sued any public comment on his decision to step down. (Caribbean National Weekly)
Nassau cruise passenger jailed for gun in purse
Awoman who inadvertently brought a gun with her on a cruise was on Thursday sentenced to 24 months in prison after she was unable to pay an $8000 fine for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
Mary Elizabeth Robinson, of Sandy Springs, Oklahoma, was arrested after security personnel found a loaded .380 pistol in her purse as she tried to board the Liberty of the Seas cruise ship at the Nassau Cruise Port on December 2.
She pleaded guilty when she was arraigned before
Magistrate Lennox Coleby Sr. Robinson, a retiree, had boarded the ship along with her 12-year-old adopted son in Fort Lauderdale, and Nassau was the first port of call, the court heard. Her lawyer, Bjorn Ferguson, told the court that she had owned the gun, a gift from her aunt, for over 50 years. He said that Robinson lived in an open carry state and had forgotten the firearm was in her bag as she was experiencing the early stages of dementia.
Citing case law,
Ferguson noted that the court had a discretion to impose a fine instead of a prison sen-tence.
Ferguson told the court that Robinson had already spent two days in custody at the Central Police Sta-tion.
He said that while in custody, she “had to contend with very aggressive rats” while in the station’s lockup.
Coleby said he was satisfied that Robinson was not intent on breaking the law and imposed an $8000 fine. He also ordered the gun and ammunition seized. (The Nassau Guardian)
Rockley Vale, Scarborough, Tobago man has appeared in court charged with the murder of American tourist Christopher Brown, 43, a builder of Silverthorne, Colorado.
Kylelon Sandy appeared before Master Whitney Franklin. He was represented by Karlson Brooks, while the state was represented by Sgt Raegen Ramanan, an attorney with the Homicide Bureau of Investigations. Sandy was re-
manded into custody to return to court on September 22, 2026.
Sandy was charged after DPP Roger Gaspard, SC, gave instructions on December 4.
Brown was said to be vacationing in Castara on November 26 with his girlfriend when he was stabbed in the back. He had earlier had dinner at a restaurant and was walking to another bar nearby when he was attacked.
An autopsy on Brown on December 2 at the Scarborough Mortuary determined his death was as a re-sult of stab wounds to his back.
When Tobago Police responded to the murder scene back in November, they were led to a concrete track off Depot Road by residents to Brown’s body. A knife was observed in his back. His body was subsequently identified by his girlfriend, Ellie Peck of Roaring Fork in Colorado. (Trinidad & Tobago Newsday)
DR: 7 prison guards arrested for participating in the escape of inmate
The Dominican Republic (DR) Public Ministry and the National Police arrested seven Penitentiary Surveillance Agents (VTP) who participated in the escape of Beilin Antonio de Peña (el Buda), charged with two serious homicide crimes, from the La Isleta Correction and Rehabilitation Center (CCR), Moca.
The escape occurred in the early hours of November 21, 2025, and he has not yet been captured.
The detainees Oscar Luis Andrés, Alexander Ogando Cuevas (supervisor), Juan
Pablo de Jesús Encarnación, Francis Alberto Soto Agramonte, Wilferson Aybar Acevedo, Jonthanael de los Santos Rodríguez and Zabala Rosario Valdez will be presented before a court by the Public Ministry.
The VTP agents are accused of criminal association and obstruction of justice, as well as violation of ar-ticles 265, 266, 237 and 238 of the Dominican Penal Code, to the detriment of the General Directorate of Penitentiary and Correctional Services (DGSPC) and the Dominican State.
Fugitive Beilin Antonio de Peña (the Buddha) was imprisoned for killing Raymond Emilio Castillo (Raymond) and shooting the young Shakira Naomi Lorenzo on July 21 of this year. The National Police had arrested De Peña at the Punta Cana Airport as he was trying to leave the coun-try as part of the pursuit actions against him for the criminal acts he committed in San Marcos, Puerto Plata, while the victims were inside a vehicle in front of a business. (Excerpt from Listin Diario)
Lieutenant Governor of Guam Joshua Franquez Tenorio and BVI Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley
Allen Chastanet
Musk says EU should be abolished – after bloc fines X €120M
Elon Musk has called for the EU to be “abolished” after the bloc fined his social media platform X €120m (£105m).
In a series of posts on the site, the billionaire lashed out at the officials who handed out the punishment for transparency breaches and threatened to pursue each country individually.
“The EU should be abolished and sovereignty returned to individual countries so that Governments can better represent their people,” he wrote.
Hours later, Donald Tusk, the Polish Prime Minister, wrote, X: “Dear American friends, Europe is your closest ally, not your problem. And we have common enemies. At least that’s how it has been in the last 80 years. We need to stick to this; this is the only reasonable strategy for our common security. Unless something has changed.”
His response comes amid growing frustration
within the White House about the direction of the Euro-pean Union.
On Thursday night, Donald Trump’s administration released a national security strategy that accused the EU of undermining “political liberty and sovereignty”, censoring free speech and encouraging un-controlled migration.
The White House had applied significant pressure on EU leaders to drop the flagship case against X, launched under the bloc’s new content moderation law, the Digital Services Act.
In response to rumours of the ruling, JD Vance, the Vice President, said on Thursday that the EU should be “supporting free speech, not attacking US companies over garbage.”
But after a two-year investigation, the European Commission ruled against X on three counts.
It found that the “blue tick” verification badge was deceptive, as users could
simply pay for the privilege; that there was a lack of transparency over advertisers on the site, falling foul of safeguards against scams and illegal promotions; and that researchers were denied access to what should be public data.
The first change incurred a €45m fine, the second €35m and the last €40m. A Commission spokesman said the penalty was for a breach “committed by X” but addressed to the “entire corporate structure”, which the bloc’s officials had previously said consists of three entities with Mr Musk “at the top”.
Musk, the wealthiest man in the world, said, “The ‘EU’ imposed this crazy fine not just on [X], but also on me personally, which is even more insane! Therefore, it would seem appropriate to apply our re-sponse not just to the EU, but also to the individuals who took this action against me.” (Excerpt from The Telegraph)
4 arrested at Tower of London after apple crumble, custard thrown at State Crown display
F our persons were arrested at London's Tower of London after they threw food at a display case con-taining the Imperial State Crown, Police said on Saturday, leading to a temporary closure of part of the historic building housing the Crown Jewels.
An organisation called Take Back Power, which describes itself as a civil resistance group, posted foot-age of the incident on social media and said two of its members had smothered the display case with apple crumble and custard.
London Police said in a statement that four pro -
testers were detained following the reports of criminal damage to the display case shortly before 10:00h GMT.
"They have been taken into custody. The Jewel House has been closed to the public while the Police in-vestigation continues," the statement said.
The Imperial State Crown is worn by King Charles on some official occasions, such as the State Open-ing of Parliament. He also wore it on his return to Buckingham Palace after his coronation in Westminster Abbey in 2023.
More than three million persons visit the
Around the World
OFAC imposes US$7M penalty on company tied to sanctioned Russian oligarch
The US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) on Thursday imposed a US$7,139,305 penalty on Gracetown Inc, a property management company in New York, for violat-ing OFAC’s Russia-related sanctions and for failing to report blocked assets to OFAC.
The enforcement action, which resulted in a penalty near the statutory maximum, the US Treasury Dept noted, highlights the importance of following OFAC-issued guidance and the significant consequences that can occur from failing to do so.
“Treasury will act firmly against those who ignore our sanctions and aid our adversaries,” said Treasury Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence John K Hurley. “Under Secretary Bessent's leadership, we will continue to investigate and hold accountable those who en-
able sanctioned actors."
OFAC’s investigation revealed that between April 2018 and May 2020, Gracetown received 24 payments totalling $31,250 on behalf of a company ultimately owned by sanctioned Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska, despite having received explicit prior notice from OFAC that direct and indirect dealings with Deripaska were prohibited. Additionally, Gracetown failed to report blocked assets in its posses-sion or control for over 45 months.
Gracetown was established in 2006 to manage three luxury real estate properties in New York and Washington, DC, which Deripaska acquired around the same time through various legal entities. From 2006 to 2018, Deripaska was the ultimate beneficial owner of Gracetown.
When OFAC sanctioned Deripaska in April 2018, all of Deripaska’s assets subject to US jurisdiction were
blocked, and US persons were generally prohibited from dealings related to Deripaska, his proper-ties, and his interest in properties. Due to Gracetown’s ties with Deripaska, OFAC served it with a no-tice explicitly alerting Gracetown of Deripaska’s designation, Gracetown’s sanctions compliance obliga-tions, and the consequences of non-compliance.
After receiving the OFAC notice, Gracetown maintained an ongoing arrangement with an entity owned by Deripaska to receive regular monthly payments in the United States on that entity’s behalf, in viola-tion of US sanctions against Russia. In doing so, Gracetown dealt in property in which Deripaska held an interest. Gracetown also failed to report its possession of the property to OFAC in a timely manner, as is mandated by OFAC’s reporting requirements. (Source: US Department of the Treasury)
Gunmen kill at least 12, including 3-year-old, in hostel in
Gunmen have stormed into a hostel in South Africa’s capital and killed at least 12 persons, including a three-year-old child, and injured more than a dozen others.
Police said they had launched a “manhunt” for three persons and were investigating whether the killings were linked to a bar within the hostel that may
South Africa
have been selling alcohol illegally.
The attack is the latest in a series of mass shootings in the country of 63 million persons, which has one of the highest murder rates in the world.
“I can confirm that a total of 25 people were shot,” said a Police spokesperson, Athlenda Mathe, of the early morning attack in
Saulsville township, 18 km west of Pretoria. She said the armed men had shot indiscriminately.
Ten had died at the scene, while two died in hospital, she said. The twelfth victim succumbed to inju-ries on Saturday afternoon.
The victims included a 12-year-old boy and a 16-year-old girl. (Excerpt from The Guardian)
Deadly attack on kindergarten reported in Sudan
drone attack on
A1000-year-old fortress every year, with the famous Crown Jewels – made up of crowns, orbs, sceptres and other regalia – being one of the main draws.
Historic Royal Palaces, which manages the Tower, said its staff responded quickly to the incident. The Jewel House was briefly closed while the Police carried out their investigation.
"The Crown Jewels have not been damaged," it said in a statement.
Take Back Power said its protest was to highlight its demands for the Government to tax the super-rich. (Reuters)
the town of Kalogi, in Sudan's South Kordofan region, is said to have hit a kinder-garten and killed at least 50 persons, including 33 children.
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the paramilitary group battling the
army in Sudan's civil war, was ac-cused of Thursday's attack by a medical organisation, the Sudan Doctors' Network, and the army.
There was no immediate comment from the RSF.
The RSF in turn accused the army of hitting a market on Friday in a drone attack in the Darfur region, on a fuel depot at the Adre border crossing with Chad. Sudan has been ravaged by war since April 2023, when a power struggle broke out between the RSF and the army, who were formerly allies. (Excerpt from BBC News)
Deadly border fighting breaks out between Pakistan, Afghanistan
Border clashes have erupted again between Pakistan and Afghanistan's Taliban forces, with each side accusing the other of breaking a fragile ceasefire.
Residents fled the Afghan city of Spin Boldak overnight, which lies along the 2600 km border between the two countries.
A medical worker in the nearby city of Kandahar told BBC Pashto that four bodies had been brought to a local hospital. Four other persons were wounded. Three were reportedly wounded in Pakistan.
There has been sporadic fighting between the two countries in recent months, while Afghanistan's Tali-ban Government has also accused Pakistan of carrying out air strikes inside the country. Both sides have confirmed they exchanged fire overnight, but each blamed the other for initiating the four hours of fighting. (Excerpt from BBC News)
In a series of posts on X, Elon Musk threatened to pursue each country individually
(March 21April 19)
Say no to temptation and yes to learning, personal growth, and romance. Do your research and get the lowdown before you pursue something new. Sticking to guidelines, rules, and regulations is necessary in avoiding intervention. You are overdue for a change, but the choices you receive will be misleading. Do your due diligence.
TAURUS (April 20May 20)
GEMINI (MAY 21June 20)
CANCER
Go through the proper channels before you make a decision that may put you in a vulnerable position. Trust your instincts, not someone trying to take advantage of you. Budget wisely and only pay for what’s necessary. When doubt arises, get a second opinion. Trust your instincts over an outsider. Poor diagnosis and misinformation are apparent.
Be open to suggestions, but rely on yourself and your intuition to guide you in a direction that’s best for you. Relationships will be exciting but not necessarily honest or as they appear. Ask questions, be on guard, and refuse to pay for others’ mistakes or sob stories. Choose common sense over someone’s ego-boosting rhetoric.
LEO (July 23Aug. 22)
VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)
You are in a better position than you realize. Take a moment to review the facts and reevaluate your past, present, and future. Use your experience and skills, and execute a personal assessment, resume, or response that will allow you to catapult your talents in a direction you find exhilarating. Advancement awaits you.
Show everyone what you can do. Socialize, network, and address situations that require your attention. You stand to prosper if you take hold of situations and turn them into something worthwhile. Personal gain can teach you something valuable, but be cautious not to fall into a trap because someone strokes your ego. Personal growth, love, and self-improvement are favored. Don’t compromise your reputation or position. Think before you act and protect those you love from those who are out to take advantage of you. A change may be necessary if you discover you have misinterpreted what someone is offering you. Protect your surroundings or remove yourself from situations that make you feel vulnerable.
LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)
SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)
CAPRICORN (June 21July 22)
What you hear will not be fact. Verify information before committing to an action. Focus inward and put your time, effort, and energy into self-improvement. Look for a change of environment that will make you feel safe. Walk away from indulgent situations and people and toward stability and building greater security. Put your needs first.
Explore the possibilities, learn from an expert, and take advantage of what you discover by using it to advance your current position, lifestyle, or long-term plans. Change is within reach; all you must do is ignite the fuse and make things happen. It’s time to present what you can offer. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)
Home improvements, investing in yourself and your livelihood, and setting yourself up for success are on the rise. Embrace the future with a passionate attitude, intelligence, and a practical plan that is gratifying and encourages you to fulfill your heart’s desires. Take control and do what’s best for you.
AQUARIUS
(Jan. 20Feb. 19) (Dec. 22Jan. 19)
PISCES
(Feb. 20Mar. 20)
When opportunity knocks, open the door. Look for new ways to utilize your skills and apply your experience and knowledge to professions that are experiencing growth. Transitioning from one venue to another will be your refuge, and once you realize how to diversify and your skills to suit each job, nothing will stand in your way.
Put your energy into personal improvement, updating your skills, and connecting with people who can help you advance. Update your look to encourage better response. How you present yourself and your attributes will determine how far you get. Change takes work, but the returns will be worthwhile. Mix business with pleasure and gain personally and professionally.
Ask questions, and use your intellect and intuition to guide you in a positive direction. Refuse to let anyone push you into making a premature decision. You’ll know when the right opportunity comes along. Network, study, observe, and set goals that offer something tangible. Listen to your heart, not someone trying to take advantage of you.
ARIES
Peanuts
Calvin and Hobbes
Pickles
An epic stonewall from Justin Greaves had him face more than half the deliveries of his 12Test career in this single innings alone, as West Indies pocketed their first points in the sixth Test of the 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle in Christchurch. The 163.3 overs they eventually faced is the longest fourth innings in Tests for the West Indies in 95 years.
Having played the supporting role to Shai Hope through their 196-run stand that rescued West Indies from 92 for 4 on Day 3, Greaves became the heartbeat of the innings once Hope (140) and Tevin Imlach fell in quick succession.
He brought up a stunning maiden Test double tonne in the penultimate over when he sliced Jacob Duffy over backward point to pocket what was to be only his second boundary in the entire final session as his colleagues stood up to give him a standing ovation.
He finished 202 not out, having faced 388 deliveries, turning an innings that began with the typical artistic flair and flamboyance into a steely knock full of purpose and grit. Greaves wore more blows on the body than he could count, batted more deliveries than he had in his career, and reined in his natural instincts with single-minded purpose and determination.
His effort led to an astonishing turnaround from the first hour of the day, when West Indies stumbled to 277 for 6 in a mammoth chase of 531. A depleted New Zealand attack, down to two weary frontline pacers in Zak Foulkes and Jacob Duffy, fancied their chances. But Greaves found
Greaves' unbeaten 202* anchors WI to epic draw against NZ
an able ally in Kemar Roach, the 37-yearold veteran, who batted like his life depended on it in his comeback Test.
Roach made 58 not out – his highest first-class score – while facing 233 deliveries himself. Astonishingly, he made just 5 off the last 104 deliveries he faced during a dramatic final two hours of play even as the sun baked down hard on an increasingly docile Hagley Oval surface. Yet that should not take away from the epic rearguard from Hope, Greaves, and Roach.
The frustration of not being able to separate Greaves and Roach during the second and third sessions was evident, as New Zealand's bowlers were ground into dust. They would also have felt robbed when Roach appeared to have nicked Michael Bracewell to Tom Latham behind the stumps – though perhaps they only had themselves to blame for burning all their reviews.
Even so, it was the thinnest of spikes that made it all the more challenging for Alex Wharf, the on-field umpire, who only a few minutes earlier made a cracking decision by turning down what everyone believed was an obvious inside edge onto the pad to the slips, again off Bracewell. Replays showed Wharf had made a terrific call.
As admirably as Roach played, he also maximised his opportunities. On 30, he was put down by Foulkes at backward square leg when he attempted an expansive sweep off Bracewell. On 35, Blair Tickner, subbing for Matt Henry, missed a direct hit at the bowler's end from a few yards away at short mid-on as Roach misjudged a run.
Then on 47 came the most obvious chance, when Roach attempted to loft Bracewell and nearly holed out to mid-on. Except Glenn Phillips, the other sub, saw Tickner looking to intercept the ball from mid-off and
palm it away.
With those three chances firmly behind him, Roach buckled down and offered a dead bat to anything that came his way against Bracewell. Foulkes and Duffy tried to ruffle him with the short ball from around the wicket, only for him to duck and weave.
Going into the final session, it became increasingly evident the West Indies weren't going to be enticed by the prospect of chasing down the 132 runs they needed in 31 possible overs. This clarity allowed them to approach the session with dead defence being the primary aim, even as Greaves began to tire and suffer cramps that needed medical attention at different times.
Not even the possibility of an impending double century enticed Greaves into attempting anything loose, even if Tom Latham gave him the open invitation to drive Bracewell against the turn through the covers. This wasn't perhaps a risk worth taking given how easily West Indies' lower order collapsed in the first innings.
But long before a draw became the only possibility, even as New Zealand tried to attack with six fielders around the bat in the final
A heroic rear-guard effort from Greaves and Roach ensured West Indies salvaged a thrilling draw
session, Hope and Greaves pocketed runs at every available opportunity as the hosts rushed through their first six overs with part-time spin in a bid to take the second new ball quickly.
But even after they took it, there was hardly any assistance for the bowlers.
Hope defended comfortably off a length, with neither Foulkes nor Duffy consistently able to challenge the outside edge. The occasional misfields – like
Rachin Ravindra letting one through his legs for four, or Will Young overrunning a throw while backing up –added to the sense of raggedness New Zealand were beginning to feel.
A breakthrough lifted them shortly after drinks when Duffy dug in a short ball down leg, which Hope gloved behind, only for Latham to throw himself to his left and pluck a stunner from his webbing to end a marathon. Then came a second when Imlach was trapped by a nip-backer.
They may have thought
then it was just a matter of time. It could've been had they not reprieved Roach, but those reprieves proved even more costly given they only had two fast bowlers and two part-timers available – all of them going full throttle to the limit – despite not getting much out of the surface.
In the end, the manner in which the West Indies earned the draw may prove far more valuable. Above all, it was a day that reminded everyone of the slow-burn magic only Test cricket can deliver. (ESPNcricinfo)
Mexico & South Africa to clash in 1st match as fixtures released
North America is the site of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with 11 cities in the United States – plus three in Mexico and two in Canada – set to host the 104 matches of the summer tournament.
The World Cup begins on June 11, 2026, as co-host Mexico plays the opener in Mexico City, with the USA (Los Angeles) and Canada (Toronto) kicking off a day later. The group stage runs until June 27, with synchronised start times in each group for the final matches in the round-robin.
The top two teams in each group – and the eight best third-place finishers – advance to the knockout stage, which begins on June 28 with the Round of 32.
The Round of 16 begins on July 4, the quarterfinals on July 9, and the semi-finals take place on July 14-15, leading up to the championship match at MetLife Stadium on July 19.
Allicock, Joshi win I-CEE Grand Prix 2 Chess Tournaments
Newcomer to the local chess scene, FIDE
Master Rawle Allicock, played unbeaten in the eightround classical-style I-CEEsponsored competition, which concluded last Sunday at the School of the Nations.
The 55-year-old Guyanese player returned home to join the local ranks in the chess arena. Allicock finished with an astounding 7.5 points after remaining unbeaten in the Open Category. His only point drop was his draw against fellow FIDE Master Anthony Drayton.
Woman Candidate Master (WCM) Aditi Joshi, the National Women's Chess Champion, also played unbeaten in her category, finishing with 7.5 points, with her only draw in the tournament coming against young Kataleya Sam.
In the Open Category, second-place winner FM Drayton settled for a draw in the duel with his opponent, CM Sachin Pitamber.
Keron Sandiford took third place, finishing with six points, losing to FM Drayton in the fifth round and Allicock in
the penultimate round of the tournament.
Sandiford's game with Allicock ended after 45 moves. Allicock's rooks posed a serious threat to Sandiford's king and threatened checkmate. Sandiford resigned soon after, giving the FM the full point.
CM Sachin Pitamber placed fourth with 5.5 points after a surprising loss to Prince Dunn early in the competition in Round Two. In the final round of the tournament, Allicock faced Pitamber, and both players displayed aggressive intent.
The intense battle between
the two was evidently a clash of generations. The young Candidate Master (CM) experienced severe time trouble as he resisted his FM opponent and fought to hold his king's delicate position. In the final move of their match, Allicock's extra pawn was poised for promotion to a stronger piece and to execute checkmate. Pitamber resigned on move 53. His half-point resulted from a draw against Drayton in the sixth round.
Kyle Couchman (five points) also went down to Allicock and Drayton in the sixth and
eighth rounds, respectively. Couchman suffered a crushing defeat against Joshua Gopaul in the second round. He lost in an endgame to Drayton in the final round as well. The National Junior Champion played with only a pawn down but resigned after just over 60 moves to Drayton's decisive position.
Gilbert Williams, Prince Dunn, Alexander Zhang, Micaiah Enoe, and Alex UbaldoSingh rounded out the top ten positions with five points each.
WCM Joshi scored a full point in her match with former Women's Champion WCM
Abu Dhabi GP Qualifying...
Callender in Round Six.
king was lured and trapped on her opponent's side, with no defence against checkmate. Their hard-fought battle ended after 40 moves.
Earlier in Round Three, the reigning Women's Champion met WCM Sasha Shariff, who was outplayed and conceded after losing a rook to her opponent.
Ciel Clement finished with an impressive second place with 6.5 points, her only loss was against Joshi in the fourth round. Her draw was against Shariff, who took the third spot
Max Verstappen beats Lando Norris to pole to set up thrilling F1 title decider
Max Verstappen claimed a dominant pole position for the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, but championship leader Lando Norris took second to remain in position to win his first drivers' title.
Red Bull's Verstappen, who trails Norris by 12 points going into Sunday’s titledeciding race, delivered two laps good enough for pole at the Yas Marina Circuit, but the Brit crucially edged out his McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri by three hundredths of a second.
Norris will guarantee his maiden title if he finishes in the top three on Sunday but could also triumph with a lesser result in the event Verstappen fails to win the race.
Piastri's already faint hopes of sealing his first title suffered a blow, with the Australian likely to require major misfortune for his rivals if he is to overturn a 16-point deficit to Norris and to leapfrog Verstappen.
Should Verstappen retain the lead at the start, the Dutchman could potentially use his position to back Norris and Piastri into the pack behind them.
George Russell is the most likely candidate to challenge the McLarens from behind after taking fourth for Mercedes.
Charles Leclerc was fifth for Ferrari, while Lewis Hamilton's woeful end to his debut campaign with the Italian team continued as he made a
third successive Q1 exit that leaves him 16th on the grid.
Yuki Tsunoda, who earlier this week found out he will lose his Red Bull seat next year, will start 10th after appearing to sacrifice his own grid position to support his teammate Verstappen with a tow during the final part of the session.
Verstappen supreme, but Norris delivers under pressure Verstappen's surge back into title contention has been aided by major McLaren errors at the first two legs of the season-ending tripleheader, but on this occasion the reigning world champion simply appeared to be in a league of his own.
Norris appeared to have an edge over Verstappen
throughout the weekend's three practice sessions, but as has so often been the case this season, the Dutchman found extra performance when it mattered most.
Having preserved an extra set of fresh soft tyres for the pole-deciding Q3 shootout thanks to his efficiency earlier in the session, Verstappen took full advantage by delivering a supreme first flying lap.
The effort, aided by Tsunoda's tow up the back straight, put him three tenths clear of Piastri with Norris a further couple of tenths back as the McLarens were on tyres that already had laps on them from Q2.
Closing the entire deficit to Verstappen, particularly given the tow, always seemed
an unlikely prospect, and that proved to be the case.
Both Norris and Piastri improved, but it was the Brit who produced the narrowly faster lap under huge pressure to provide himself with a little bit more of a cushion going into Sunday's race, as Verstappen found almost another tenth of his final run to underline his superiority on the evening.
"It's tough. Max did a good job, so congrats to him," Norris said.
"We did everything we could. I think my lap was pretty good; I was pretty happy. Of course, we are disappointed to not be on pole for the final weekend, but we were just not fast enough today, so we will try and do it tomorrow."
(SkySport)
with 5.5 points, with her only loss against Joshi.
Kataleya Sam, the National U-12 Girls Chess Champion, performed splendidly with five points, with her only loss against Ciel Clement. Sam drew with Joshi, Shariff, Callender, and Italy Tonne-Chung.
Callender also finished on five points, and Italy Tonne-Chung on 4.5 points, while Saura Ruplall, Parnita Kishun, Sana Sreebalakumar, Olivia Rajmangal, and Maliha Rajkumar all finished on four points each.
The tournament was overseen by FIDE Arbiter John Lee, who also live-streamed the top twelve boards for viewers at home. Results were published on chess-results.com.
Cash prizes sponsored by I-CEE and totalling $100,000, were awarded to the top three players in each category.
The Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) would like to extend its gratitude to I-CEE for once again coming on board to support chess in Guyana and to the School of the Nations for providing the venue.
Interested persons can follow the GCF on Facebook and Instagram. All information about chess clubs and how to join the federation can be found on guyanachess.gy.
Jessica
Callender's
FM Rawle Allicock receives his prize from GCF's president WCM Aditi Joshi receives her prize from GCF's President
The 2026 FIFA World Cup
Team Guyana reigns supreme at IGG 2025 track & field meet
– Aarav Singh wins gold in 100 m backstroke competition
Team Guyana has officially claimed the Track and Field Championship at the InterGuiana Games (IGG) 2025, capping two days of commanding performances with an extraordinary overall points haul.
Competing on home soil at the National Track and Field Facility on the West Coast of Demerara, the host nation showcased exceptional depth, discipline, and dominance across all events, reaffirming its status as the region’s premier athletics force.
On Day Two, the sprint events set the tone early. In the Girls’ 100 m, Quinyla Burnette powered to gold in 12.30s, with teammate Nyah Gravesande behind to secure a Guyanese 1–2 finish. The boys matched the feat in emphatic fashion as Ezekiel Millington sped to victory in 10.80s, followed by compatriot Deuquan Farrell. Guyana’s supremacy extended into the middle-distance events. Adanya Glen and Kamayra Lacon controlled the Girls’ 1500 m from start to finish, while
Ebo Mc Neil delivered a commanding run in the Boys’ 1500 m, crossing the line in a notable 4:12.00.
The demanding Girls’ 3000 m added yet another gold to Guyana’s tally, with Esther Mc Kinnon holding off a late challenge from French Guiana’s Clara Delpey.
The quarter-mile races were no different. Rising star Tianna Springer cruised to victory in the Girls’ 400 m, stopping the clock at 57.40s. On the boys’ side, Tishawn Easton
Senior Women’s InterCountry T20 Tournament
The 2025 Guyana Cricket Board/ Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport Senior Women’s Inter-County T20 Tournament bowled off on Saturday at the La Bonne Intention (LBI) Ground, East Coast Demerara (ECD), with Essequibo holding their nerve in a tight finish against Demerara while Berbice produced a commanding all-round display to comfortably defeat
itive 101 for 7 in their 20 overs.
Demerara captain Kaysia Schultz was the pick of the bowlers, producing an excellent spell of 4 for 16, while Tilleya Madramootoo supported well with figures of 2 for 15.
Despite a disciplined bowling effort, Demerara faltered in their chase. Madramootoo top-scored with 20 from 21 balls, and Schultz added a pa-
led another Guyanese 1–2 finish, clocking 49.07s.
Field events continued to bolster the hosts’ advantage. Courtney Haynes cleared 1.90 m to win the Boys’ High Jump, while Nathaniel Samaroo secured the Discus Throw title with a 34.13 m effort. In the Girls’ Shot Put, Beyonce Chandler topped the field with a best throw of 9.59 m.
The competition concluded with decisive relay triumphs. Guyana’s Girls’ 4x400 m team produced a smooth 4:17.50 victory,
and the boys’ team sealed the day by storming to a 3:35.10 finish.
At the close of the athletics programme, Guyana amassed a remarkable 442 points, well ahead of French Guiana with 300 points and Suriname with 213. This cemented a dominant and well-deserved championship victory at IGG 2025.
Meanwhile, swimmers hit the pool on Saturday as the 2025 Inter-Guiana Games continued at the National Aquatic Centre in Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.
Guyana’s Aarav Singh claimed Gold in the Boys’ 12–18 100 m Breaststroke with a time of 1:09.93, ahead of Suriname’s Hasan Holtuin (1:11.32) and Tyrell Mokkum (1:12.06), who took Silver and Bronze, respectively
In the Boys 12-18 50m Backstroke, Guyanese brothers Jeremy and Jeron Sookram captured Silver and Bronze, while
Guyana also celebrated a milestone moment as Elissa Shipley-Thompson earned her first-ever InterGuiana Games medal – a Bronze in the Girls 12-18 50 m Backstroke. ShipleyThompson later joined teammates Jeremy and Jessica Sookram, along with Singh, to secure silver for Guyana in the 200 m Mixed Medley Relay.
Hinterland.
In the opening match, Demerara won the toss and chose to field first. Essequibo’s innings was steadied by several valuable contributions led by Shonette Belgrave, who struck 22 from 20 balls, including three boundaries.
Tramaine Marks scored 20, while Laurene Williams and Annestecia Vanezuela added 18 each, helping Essequibo reach a compet-
tient 17 from 23, but the innings lacked momentum as they finished on 96 for 7— five runs short of their target. Essequibo’s Analesia Daguiar bowled superbly, returning figures of 2 for 6 to help seal a hard-fought victory.
The second match saw Berbice stamp their authority early in the tournament with a comprehensive win over Hinterland. Batting first after winning
the toss, Berbice posted a strong 139 for 6. Captain Sheneta Grimmond led from the front with an assured 27 from 26 balls.
Crystal Durant (17) and Tiea Isaacs (16) added useful middle-order runs. Hinterland’s bowlers had moments of success, with Kelsey Couchman, Feona Benjamin and Grazil Thomas each claiming a wicket.
Hinterland’s reply never gained momentum, as Berbice’s bowlers ripped through the batting lineup. Only Tifeny LaRose managed to reach double figures, scoring 12, as the team was dismissed for just 45 in 13 overs. Kianna Leach delivered a sensational spell, grabbing 4 for 3, while Grimmond and Durant continued their strong allround performances with two wickets apiece.
The tournament continues today at the LBI ground with Essequibo facing Berbice at 09:00h, followed by Hinterland taking on Demerara at 13:00h, as teams look to build early momentum in the race for the 2025 title.
An absolute screamer off the boot of Sandra Johnson made all the difference between the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Women's Football Club and the Guyana Police Force (GPF) FC in what was the Women's Division One League decider at the Guyana Football Federation's (GFF) National Training Center (NTC) at Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD).
Tied on a perfect 24 points from eight games played, it all boiled down to the final clash under the Friday night lights, which would ultimately decide the winner of the tournament's league phase.
For Police, it was a mustwin encounter, given their inferior goal difference to the soldiers; even a draw would not suffice.
On the other hand, all
Flawless GDF claims Division One League win
the soldiers needed was a draw, but when left up to their star winger, Sandra Johnson, who had just come off a start with the Lady Jags in their CONCACAF W
Qualifiers clash against Nicaragua, nothing but a win would do for the ladies in green.
From the first whistle, GDF's women controlled the majority of possession. A few early shots found their way on target, but nothing could penetrate the laser focus of Police's keeper, Dekola Chester. That is, until the 15th minute.
A lapse in Police's play saw Glendy Lewis winning possession of the ball. Now on the charge with limited bodies behind, the pass to Johnson was as smooth as butter. The striker took a few moments to settle before deciding on the left-footed shot that sailed perfectly into the top right corner of the goal and out of Chester's grasp for what would become the game-winning strike.
Police made several notable changes after the halftime interval, and though they were able to keep GDF's
relentless attack at bay and even created a few chances of their own, it was not enough to find the game-levelling strike to keep them in contention for the title.
As such, GDF will be crowned champions of the competition's league phase, with the playoff (knockout) aspect to come soon.
Meanwhile, also on Friday night, Western Tigers FC ended their league campaign on a winning note, drubbing Monedderlust FC 5-0.
It was a tough first half for both sides, as the Berbice-based outfit was kept on their toes while the West Ruimveldt-based side just couldn't seem to make their chances stick. As such, the encounter remained a stalemate at the halftime interval.
Soon after the game resumed, Marissa Frank took matters into her own hands; her right-footed shot into the corresponding corner from just inside the penalty area finally separated the two teams in the 37th minute.
Frank would go on to complete her hat trick in the 42nd and 45th minutes, while Ciara Glasgow added her name to the scoresheet in the 40th and 53rd minutes for their massive win.
Though the curtains have come down on the Women's Division One League phase, the knockout competition is billed to kick off on Wednesday, December 10, at the same venue.
Player of the Match Kaysia Schultz
Sheneta Grimmond
Suriname’s Ismael Holtuin claimed Gold.
Another look at the action between GDF FC (Green) and Police FC
Aarav Singh
Runners during the relay
Jeremy and Jeron Sookram after winning Silver and Bronze in the Boys 12-18 50 m Backstroke
