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Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 6544

THE BEACON OF TRUTH THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026

“US-Guyana relationship has never been better” – Deputy Secretary Landau after visit Page 3

PRICE $100 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

41 children with disabilities graduate as transition P7 programme records early success

Water St stabbing

Salesman charged with 2 counts of manslaughter, P8 granted $1.5M bail

…as GDF, State Department ink agreement to strengthen bilateral defence

High winds damage 15 homes at Arau

HEART Initiative steps up longterm support P12 for MV Barima survivors, families

Page 14

story Young onSeepage 8 businessman found dead in car with gunshot wound

Stop manufacturing crises – Enmore Hospital Chief to US-sanctioned LOO

Page 14

…says Mohamed distorting newborn case for political theatre

JAGS Aviation introduces Lethem flights with 10% reduction in airfare …looking to expand operations across Caribbean, South America

Lone gunman P10 escapes with $1.3M from betting shop

Page 2

Cop under close arrest for brandishing P8 toy gun

Pensioner slapped with child rape charge, granted $1M bail P11

2 NEWS

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

JAGS Aviation introduces Lethem flights with 10% reduction in airfare …looking to expand operations across Caribbean, South America

Reservation Manager at JAGS Aviation Inc, Natasha Smith

ocal airline JAGS Aviation Inc on Wednesday introduced a new service to Lethem in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) with a 10 per cent reduction in airfares as part of efforts to make travel more economical and accessible for Guyanese. “We’ve taken the initiative to offer the services to Lethem at 10 per cent less than the current market value so that we can make it easier and more accessible for our people to trav-

el,” Reservation Manager at JAGS, Natasha Smith, told reporters. Operated by BK International, JAGS Aviation is offering flights from the Bradley Hangar at the Eugene F Correia International Airport at Ogle, East Coast Demerara (ECD), to Lethem at $58,800 one-way and $82,800 round trip. The Ogle-Lethem Scheduled Service is four days per week, with two daily flights on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, departing Ogle at 07:00h

and 15:30h, and Lethem at 09:00h and 17:00h. There will only be one flight on Sunday, which leaves Ogle at 13:00h and Lethem at 14:30h. This new service will be flown on the newly acquired HAL 228 Turboprop – a modern, air-conditioned aircraft configured for 19 passengers. Additionally, the airline has the capacity to draw on other aircraft across its fleet to supplement capacity on high-demand days. “This route has been a long time in development, and we are proud to finally bring a modern, dependable, and affordable scheduled service to the Ogle-Lethem corridor,” Accountable Manager of JAGS Aviation, Miguel Benjamin, noted. “We built this schedule around the needs of the travelling public and the businesses that depend on this corridor, and we intend to back it with the same safety standards and personalised service that define everything we do.”

Cost-effective & accessible

Meanwhile, JAGS Aviation is also reassess-

Passengers boarding the aircraft at the Eugene F Correia International Airport, Ogle, on Wednesday as JAGS Aviation launches its Lethem service

ing its local pricing to identify further opportunities to make air travel more cost-effective and accessible for the people of Guyana. This price reduction by JAGS comes days after President Dr Irfaan Ali expressed disappointment in the local aviation sector over the high domestic airfares, which he says is further burden-

ing citizens and businesses in hinterland locations and driving up costs. “We are very disappointed in the aviation sector, because we have not been able to get the corresponding returns on the investments that we are making in prices [for domestic flights],” the President stated during a public meeting on August 5 at the Santa

Rosa Secondary School in the Moruca Sub-District, Region One (Barima-Waini). Back in November 2025, President Ali had pointed out that the local aviation sector is financially capable of lowering domestic air transport fares to hinterland locations by as much as 15 per cent. TURN TO PAGE 7

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENING

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, August 13 – 16:35h–18:05h and Thursday, August 13 – 17:10h–18:40h.

“US-Guyana relationship has never been better” – Deputy Secretary Landau after visit …as GDF, State Department ink agreement to strengthen bilateral defence

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.

WEATHER TODAY Sunny skies are expected during the day, followed by clear skies at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to Easterly between 2.38 metres and 4.91 metres.

President Dr Irfaan Ali with US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau at the Office of the President in Georgetown on Tuesday

High Tide: 16:33h reaching a maximum height of 2.59 metres. Low Tide: 10:06h and 22:22h reaching minimum heights of 0.53 metre and 0.60 metre.

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COMMODITIES Indicators Crude Oil

US$ $89.86/barrel

Change % +1.07

Rough Rice

$250.56/ton

-0.04

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$511.30/ton

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Bid/Ask

eputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau recently concluded an official visit to Georgetown during which steps were taken to further strengthen ties between Guyana and the United States (US) in a number of areas, including security, energy, mining, infrastructure, and communities, among others. “The US-Guyana relationship has never been better,” Landau declared in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday after his regional visit to Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana from August 9 to 12. The Deputy Secretary of State recognised that Guyana is experiencing one of the most dramatic economic growth spurts in history as a result of its energy and mineral resources – something which Washington is keen on working with the country to develop. “As Guyana’s #1 trading partner, the US is proud to collaborate with President Dr Irfaan Ali and his distinguished Administration on key energy, mining, infrastructure, agriculture, communications and housing projects (among others), as well as on security and counternarcotics,” Secretary Landau stated. While in Georgetown on Tuesday, Deputy Secretary Landau met with President Ali and Cabinet Ministers along with other Senior Government officials during which they discussed expanding bilateral economic cooperation and strengthening investment opportunities, with a focus on strategic sectors including energy and critical minerals. One of the key outcomes of that engagement is the two countries reaffirming their intent to strengthen counternarcotics and border security cooperation, in keeping with the March 2025 US-Guyana Security Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Building on that pact, the US has pledged US$2 million for a new initiative aimed at developing air domain awareness and unmanned aerial system capa-

bilities in Guyana.

Common interests

In an interview on Tuesday evening in Georgetown, Landau said the security cooperation was driven by shared concerns over organised crime and drug trafficking. “We have many common interests in fighting organised crime and stopping drug flows in this region,” Landau said. He went onto add that the US and Guyana face similar security threats from organised criminal groups within the region, making cooperation between the two countries important. “This is a tricky neighbourhood, and the United States faces the same security threats from these organised criminal groups as does Guyana, and so it’s natural for us to want to work together,” Landau emphasised. This commitment to enhance collaboration between the two countries was further demonstrated

Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan and Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau signing a Memorandum of Agreement in Georgetown on Tuesday to further strengthen bilateral defence and security cooperation between Guyana and the United States

in the signing of an MoU that is intended to enhance the existing Memorandum of Security Cooperation between Guyana and the US. According to the Office of the President, the MoU strengthens and deepens the long-standing partnership, building on earlier cooperation in countering narcotics and wider security collaboration. The document was signed by Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd and Deputy Secretary Landau.

Defence and security cooperation

Similarly, the US State Department official also inked another pact to strengthen bilateral defence and security cooperation with the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) regarding the assignment of liaison officers. The signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) took place on Tuesday during a high-lev-

el engagement between senior officials from Guyana’s national defence and security architecture and visiting US Government officials at Base Camp Ayanganna in Georgetown. Chief of Defence Staff of the GDF, Brigadier Omar Khan, and Deputy Secretary Landau co-chaired the engagement during which the US official reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to strengthening defence and security cooperation with Guyana. The MOA establishes a framework for the assignment of liaison officers between the GDF and United States Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) in support of the Joint Inter-Agency Task Force-South (JIATF-S) initiative. The arrangement will see a Guyanese foreign liaison officer being embedded in the JIATF-S, facilitating closer coordination and communication between the two defence agencies. TURN TO PAGE 8

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026

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Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Industrial Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

Youth voice & shaping the region’s future

nternational Youth Day 2026 provides an important opportunity to reaffirm a principle that should guide national and regional development: young people must be active contributors to its design and implementation. The theme for this year’s observance, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations”, appropriately captures the reality facing young people across Guyana and the Caribbean. Countries and communities may differ in geography, culture, economic circumstances, and social conditions, yet the aspirations of young people are remarkably similar. Quality education, decent employment, good health, safety, opportunity, equality, and a meaningful voice in decisions affecting their lives remain common priorities. Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, has therefore issued a timely call for young people to remain engaged as “shapers and contributors” to policies. Such engagement is essential if national development strategies are to reflect the realities and expectations of a generation that will ultimately inherit responsibility for the region’s future. The call is equally relevant at the regional level as CARICOM Secretary-General Dr Carla Barnett has recognised the continuing contribution of young people to Caribbean development, noting their participation in entrepreneurship, digital innovation, agriculture, climate action, volunteerism, the creative industries and community leadership. These contributions demonstrate that youth development should is directly connected to economic growth, innovation, democratic participation and sustainable development. The energy, creativity, and adaptability of younger generations represent valuable resources for societies confronting increasingly complex challenges. Rapid technological change is transforming education and employment. Climate-related disasters continue to affect vulnerable communities. Rising living costs place pressure on households and limit opportunities. Crime and violence remain concerns, while mental and emotional wellbeing require greater attention. These issues demand policies that are responsive, practical, and informed by the experiences of those most affected. A policy framework developed without sufficient youth participation risks overlooking important realities. Conversely, meaningful participation can help Governments and institutions better understand changing needs, identify innovative solutions, and strengthen public confidence in decision-making. The revised CARICOM Youth Development Action Plan is an important regional effort in this regard. Its focus on education, decent work, access to finance and mental health support, alongside entrepreneurship, environmental sustainability, digitisation and technology, reflects many of the priorities confronting young people today. Regional programmes also have a role to play in converting aspirations into opportunities. Initiatives such as the CARICOM Single Market and Economy, the CARICOM Youth Ambassador Programme and the CARICOM Young Professionals Programme can help strengthen connections between education, employment, entrepreneurship, mobility, and public service. Addressing disparities and expanding opportunities across all communities should remain a priority. Equal opportunity can be strengthened by ensuring that programmes are accessible, affordable and responsive to the needs of young people, regardless of location. Greater attention to geographic reach and inclusion can help ensure that young people in rural and hinterland communities across the Caribbean have meaningful access to education, technology, training, employment, and entrepreneurship opportunities. Guyana, with its young and increasingly diverse population, stands to benefit considerably from a stronger youth voice in national development. Young people should be encouraged to participate in community initiatives, public consultations, entrepreneurship, environmental programmes, cultural activities, and civic life. Institutions, in turn, must continue to create avenues through which youth perspectives can influence decisions. International youth serve as a reminder that youth participation is an investment in stronger institutions and more sustainable societies. The aspirations of young people across the Caribbean may emerge from different contexts, but the common goals are clear. The responsibility of Governments, regional institutions, communities, and other stakeholders is to create conditions in which those aspirations can be pursued fairly and productively. A region that listens to its young people, invests in their potential, and provides meaningful opportunities for participation will be better positioned to navigate the challenges ahead. Youth inclusion is an essential component of effective governance, sustainable development, and the Caribbean’s long-term progress.

Iwokrama officers brought the forest into the classroom at Good Intent, engaging children on the animals found in the protected area, and sharing simple ways they can help protect the forest and keep the environment litter-free. The outreach is part of the Iwokrama Youth Environmental Outreach Programme (Iwokrama International Centre for Rain Forest Conservation and Development/Facebook)

Is Scouting relevant in today’s society? By Pavitra Ramharack

couting in Trinidad and Tobago attracted headlines and countless comments during the course of the African Emancipation weekend. Sadly, its sudden burst into the headlines was not due to the hard work, discipline or commitment of the young cubs and scouts. Instead, one particular group in south Trinidad undertook an exercise during the Emancipation weekend to clean the graves of former slave owners, which drew criticism and concern. The decision, of course, would have been made by the leadership of the group, and I will not debate whether, in fact, their decision and the timing of it were right. The comments on social media were far-reaching in their condemnation of the exercise, but there was one person who questioned whether parents still allowed their children to join Scouts and whether scouting was still relevant in today’s society. I intend to focus not on the exercise undertaken, but on the relevance of scouting. Violence in schools and bullying are unfortunate aspects of academic life in our country. School rules, policies, changes in Government, and new approaches to policing – we have tried it all, and none of these adjustments have truly healed our education system. The root cause is our children, the baggage that they carry every day and the influence of their surroundings. Not all children have access to expensive extracurricular activities which

foster discipline, build confidence or steer children towards particular goals. While talent is free, shaping talent comes at a cost. Not all gifted young cricketers or footballers have access to free training. While we may believe that uniforms put us on an equal footing when entering school corridors, expensive shoes, bags, watches and other accessories separate us. There is a cost attached to everything. Not all children have a sense of belonging, not all children feel equal, and not all children have the same guidance, and while this may not be the main cause of violence or acting out, it certainly contributes. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child contains several rights which are essential for the holistic development of children. Sadly, not all children enjoy these rights. “No child should be discriminated against” is the second right, yet children are discriminated against almost daily. These rights include that decisions should be in the best interest of the child, the right to survival and development, respect for their views, freedom of thought and religion, the right to participation and so many more. While children may not enjoy these rights on a daily basis, there is one place that not only upholds these rights but also teaches them: scouting. Scouting is the one activity in T&T that is free. There is no cost attached to joining a group and becoming involved. There are groups available in almost all districts. Children are taught

not just survival skills but also teamwork and discipline. There is no discrimination based on age, gender, religion, income bracket or disability. Cubs and scouts come together from all walks of life, different schools, and different backgrounds, and they learn to work together, appreciating each other’s skills and assisting with shortcomings with a unified goal in mind. Scouting focuses on building character. During African Emancipation weekend, our scout group undertook two hikes. The Scouts headed towards Paria Bay from the Spring Bridge in Blanchisseuse, and the cubs (being the younger members), together with parents and Scout leaders, took the trek to Senna Bay, being a shorter hike. The terrain was not at its best. There had been some rain during the course of the morning, which created pools of water in the path and some slippery inclines to traverse. It wasn’t a race to the finish line. It was a test of endurance, leadership skills, the ability to adapt and teamwork. Scouts and cubs are taught and understand when it is time to lead and when it is in their best interest to follow. Both groups worked together to ensure that all team members stayed on course, were safe, hydrated and stayed with the group. It was rewarding looking at cubs attempting to give guidance to their parents and instructions on where to place their feet and how to find their balance. The cubs were able to share encouraging words

to motivate each other to continue despite attempts (mainly by the adults) to turn back. The scouts, on the other hand, did tremendously well. They knew that despite the weather and challenge that lay ahead, they would complete their hike. Isabel, Brian, Savir, Sarvesh, Sierra, Alejandro, Sanjann, and Shriya crossed the line looking like they had gone on a Sunday stroll rather than one of the most difficult coastal treks in Trinidad. We were incredibly proud of our group. To answer the question, yes, scouting is relevant in today’s society. Perhaps more so than ever before. Part of the Scout law says, “A scout is a friend to all and a brother (sister) to every other scout.” Being part of a group, which is larger than any individual, can encourage a sense of belonging, a family which celebrates your achievements and embraces your differences. As a society, we no longer encourage our children into activities or groups which insist on discipline and allow children to support each other. Instead, we rely on devices to entertain children and instigate bullying by pointing out the differences between children. Should we channel our children’s energy into more rewarding extracurricular activities, we may find that these activities are relevant in shaping more productive members of society. (T&T Guardian) (Pavitra Ramharack is head of chambers at Pavitra Ramharack Attorneys at Law.)

guyanatimesgy.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026

You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, Queens Atlantic Investment Estate, Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

LOO cannot hoodwink and bamboozle conscious Black people Dear Editor, I must say with 100 per cent clarity that the leader of the Opposition (LOO) must know that he does not possess the moral, political, or intellectual sagacity to hoodwink and bamboozle conscious Black people. We all saw through his emperors’ cloth on his recent visit to the community of Buxton with his deliberate dishonesty, his convenient truth and selective use of words to the gathering. We are not fools; we see you very transparently. Editor, there is something profoundly troubling when political rhetoric enters an African-Guyanese community and appears calculated to transform the painful historical experiences of African people into an instrument of contemporary political persuasion and opportunism. African Guyanese are not political props. Our history is not campaign material to score cheap political points. Our ancestors’ suffering is not rhetorical currency to be withdrawn whenever a politician needs applause, sympathy, support, or votes. The language employed by political leaders matters;

truth and context matter equally. Words spoken before one audience may acquire an entirely different significance when deliberately spoken before another. When a politician enters a predominantly African community and invokes themes touching slavery, oppression, racial suffering, dispossession, or historical injustice, those references carry enormous emotional and historical weight. Such language therefore demands responsibility, intellectual honesty, and historical accuracy. The African experience in Guyana was forged through centuries of enslavement, resistance, emancipation, village-building, and an extraordinary struggle for economic and political independence. After emancipation, formerly enslaved Africans pooled their limited resources to purchase villages and establish communities that became foundations of Guyana’s social and economic development. That history deserves reverence, not political opportunism. No leader should presume that invoking the historical wounds of African

people or having a hidden and secretive ethnic connection automatically entitles him to their political confidence. Nor should historical suffering be selectively reconstructed to manufacture a convenient political narrative. There is an even deeper contradiction whenever rhetoric of this nature comes from political leadership that simultaneously professes national unity. Unity cannot mean transcending race when convenient and only in certain communities, nor does it mean resurrecting racial grievance when politically useful. A politician cannot credibly ask Guyanese to abandon ethnic politics while simultaneously employing language that risks stimulating precisely the historical sensitivities he claims he wants the country to overcome. That is not transformational politics. It is the oldest political technique dressed in new clothing. Indeed, Azruddin Mohamed’s political rise has itself been associated with claims that he could disrupt Guyana’s historically racialised voting pat-

terns, which evidence shows are changing. Commentary following the 2025 elections noted that WIN made significant inroads into the traditional African-Guyanese political constituency, while Mohamed publicly presented his movement as one capable of bringing Guyanese together across ethnic boundaries. That makes responsible rhetoric and being honest even more important. African Guyanese, and indeed every ethnic community in this country, deserve something considerably more substantive than emotional appeals. The Opposition leader needs to tell the communities what his economic programme is. Explain how employment will be created. Explain his plans for education, housing, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and community development. Explain how he will fight corruption and prevent crimes, including the types he has been called by the US Government to answer to, hence his extradition battle. He must explain how the national wealth will be distributed sustainably. Explain your policies

and allow citizens to interrogate them. The Government is certainly doing what it promised to do for the Guyanese people in its manifesto and much more. But Mr Mohamed should not mistake historical memory for political vulnerability. And certainly do not mistake dissatisfaction with traditional political parties for an absence of political intelligence. The people listening today are not the people of several decades ago. They possess smartphones, have access to information, have lived experiences, and possess the ability to compare yesterday’s statements and doings with today’s speeches and actions. The “truth” you and other leaders speak can be fact-checked in real time, and your actions, past and present, can and will be evaluated. Editor, that is what is healthy for democracy; this standard must also be applied universally. I have argued and posited repeatedly that no political party owns African Guyanese or any ethnic group. By precisely the same principle, neither does

any new political movement acquire ownership of them simply because it successfully attracted some of their votes. Citizens are not inherited political property. They must be persuaded by performance, policies, integrity, honesty, vision, and ideas. This is particularly important in Guyana, because racial politics has already extracted too heavy a price from our national development. Responsible leaders should therefore be dismantling ethnic political manipulation, not discovering more sophisticated ways of practising it. It is important to note that entering one’s community carries a responsibility to respect its people and history, rather than exploiting it. A responsibility to be honest and not berate and insult the intelligence of the people who provided you with an audience. You must get it right soon or very shortly. Pump some respect on the truth. Yours respectfully, Jermaine Figueira

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026 00:00 06:00 06:30 07:00 08:00 10:00 11:30 12:00 13:30 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 20:30 21:00 22:00 23:00 23:30

Sign Off Islam for Guyana TVG Devotional Hour Evening News (RB) HGTV Stop Suffering TVG Music Break Documentary - Orangutang (2026) Movie - Heroes of the Golden Masks (2023) Cartoons Indian Soaps The Young & The Restless Documentary: Nat Geo Animals The Evening News Stop Suffering Voice of Islam Grey’s Anatomy The Rookie Modern Family Modern Family

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026

Foundation ◄

Page

guyanatimesgy.com

Types of angles cont’d Verticle Angles are the angles opposite each other when two lines cross.

don’t have to be on the same line. They just need to be the same in degrees.

Here the two angles labeled a are vertical angles. This also applies to the angles labeled b. Vertical angles are equal; the two angles labelled a are the same, and the two angles labelled b are the same. This means that they are congruent angles. To be congruent, angles do not need to point in the same direction, and they

You will also notice that the adjacent angles a and b lie on a straight line. This means they are equal to 1800 when added together, so they are also supplementary angles. If the angle next to the vertical angle is given to us, then we can subtract it from 180 degrees to get the measure of vertical angle, because vertical angle and its adjacent angle are supplementary to each other.

For example, a = 220 as they are vertical angles and are congruent. a and b are not vertical angles, but they are supplementary angles, because they are on a straight line at the same vertex. a+b=180° 22°+b=180° b=180°-22° b=158° Now that we know b = 1580, we can find c. Since b and c are congruent vertical angles, c = 1580 a = 220, b = 1580, c = 1580.

ocks on Earth do not always stay the same. They are continually changing due to processes such as weathering, erosion, and large earth movements. Rocks are gradually recycled over millions of years, changing between the different rock types. This recycling of rocks is a process called the rock cycle. Weathering breaks down rocks on the surface of the Earth. There are three types of weathering: Biological weathering: This describes rocks being broken up by the roots of plants or animals burrowing into them. Chemical weathering: This describes rocks being broken up because substances in rainwater, rivers and seawater, or the air react with the minerals in the rocks. Physical weathering: This describes rocks being broken up by changes in temperature, freezing, and thawing of trapped water or the action of waves and rivers. Erosion is the process of moving the small pieces of rock formed by weathering. Erosion occurs from the action of water or wind. Rock particles can be transported by rivers and form sedimentary rocks. There are five stages involved in this: Sediment transport: Sediment transport is the first of all of the processes by which the sediment is formed. For example, small pebbles of rock are rolled along a riverbed. Deposition: In deposition, sediment which was carried in transport is laid down. Sedimentation: Layers of sediment form on top of each

By William Jay Smith

All earth's divided in two parts, they tell us—Mind and Matter; but who is to say where the former starts, who will define the latter? Do we act or do we think when years roll round on a barber's pole, when what is red is white is pink, which is body which is soul? Deities are dismissed from their jobs. Worlds fall neat and steady. And the mobs march on with Mr. Hobbes, to the hymns of Mrs. Eddy. (Source: Poetry [December 1942])

other in sedimentation. Compaction: As more and more layers build up, the weight of the layers on top compacts the layers below. Cementation: In the final process of sedimentary rock formation, some of the minerals in the sediment harden and form a kind of cement which sticks the grains of the rock together. (BBC Bitesize)

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

41 children with disabilities graduate as transition programme records early success S

ome 41 learners with disabilities have graduated from the Transition Education Programme – an initiative aimed at helping special-needs children to prepare for secondary school and post-secondary learning. This pilot programme was rolled out in May 2025 by the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD) in partnership with MODEC Guyana Inc, and the Education Ministry, targeting learners with disabilities, including those who are blind and visually impaired. Over the past year, children from Special Education Needs (SEN) schools in Georgetown as well as Regions Four (DemeraraMahaica) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) received additional educational support to prepare them to write the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) and to also transition into the mainstream school system. It also targeted teenaged students for post-secondary skills training and academic opportunities. According to GCOPD Programme Manager Ganesh Singh, this initiative is already yielding results. “We had three learn-

ers with disabilities that sat the National Grade Six Assessment this year, and they were all successful and placed in secondary schools. They’re all from the New Amsterdam SEN School… Today, we recognise them along with all other learners that participated in the programme,” Singh noted during Wednesday’s graduation ceremony held at the National Library in Georgetown. In addition to the New Amsterdam Special Education Needs School, the Transition Education Programme was also introduced at the David Rose Special Education School, Region Four Education Department – Special Education Needs Resource Centre, East Coast Demerara, and Port Mourant Secondary – SEN Unit, and also had students attending virtual classes as well. “We worked with mainly students who were at the primary level, and we had students who were preparing for the National Grade Six Assessment. We have students that will be taking those Grade Six Assessments in 2027, and we also have some students at the secondary level that

MODEC Country Mager Rafael Fumis, Education Ministry’s ACEO Dr Keon Cheong and GCOPD Programme Manager Ganesh Singh with the three learners who successfully sat the 2026 NGSA after participating in the Transition Education Programme

will be taking the different national assessments. So, we have a wide age range of students from about the ages of 8 to about 15,” the GCOPD Manager stated. Given the success of this pilot phase, the GCOPD will continue working with its partners to expand the Transition Education Programme to more SEN schools across the country,

JAGS Aviation introduces...

FROM PAGE 2

Part of JAGS Aviation’s fleet at its Bradley Hangar, Eugene F Correia International Airport

Over the past year, the Guyana Government has invested billions of dollars to upgrade major hinterland airstrips to enhance travel to and from hinterland communities across the country. Following the commissioning of these upgraded infrastructures earlier this year, nearly all the domestic airlines, including JAGS, had dropped their rates for flights to those locations with new airstrips. In fact, JAGS had slashed the airfares to Aishalton, Region Nine and Paramakatoi in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni). However, the local operators were subsequently forced to increase their airfares back in April after aviation fuel prices skyrocketed on the global market due to the Middle East conflict.

Expansion

Nevertheless, BK International/JAGS

Aviation has indicated that the Ogle-Lethem launch is the first step in a broader expansion of the domestic airline’s route network. The company is preparing to extend scheduled and charter service to Boa Vista, Brazil; Paramaribo, Suriname; and Belém, Brazil, with further routes planned to French Guiana and Puerto Ordaz, Venezuela. JAGS is also looking beyond South America to expand its footprint into the Caribbean, where it intends to establish a hub in St Kitts and Nevis. The hub would provide reliable inter-island transport for residents and support the wider tourism industry across the islands. “We are very big on trying to ensure that everybody is comfortable, so that everyone has the right and access to travel within our own region and even outside. JAGS is considering all of these things to ensure

that everybody is able to [travel regionally],” Smith explained on Wednesday. With a diverse fleet including the HAL 228 Turboprop as well as a Tecnam P2012 Cessna Caravan C208, Britten-Norman Islander BN2A, Bell 206 Helicopter, and PZL M28 Skytruck, Smith emphasised that JAGS is well positioned to service the growing demand of the local aviation sector. “Right now, on the aerodrome, JAGS has the most diverse fleet… so, we have more options. We can also look at our prices; it can be lowered depending on what you need. We work with the people,” the JAGS Manager stated. JAGS Aviation, a member of the BK Group of Companies, offers private and charter flights, scheduled service, tourist flights, air ambulance services, and helicopter transport.

supporting more learners with disabilities to successfully sit exams and also fully integrate into mainstream schools. “So, it’s a programme that GCOPD would like to continue because we’ve seen the impact… “Three might not sound like a lot, but when you look at a population that has very few opportunities for education empowerment [for children with disabilities] over the years, three is a lot,” Singh posited.

Empowerment of children

One such partner is MODEC, a major player in the local oil and gas industry, that has already committed to supporting this empowerment of children with disabilities. “MODEC supported this programme because we believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and reach their potential. We also recognise that the path may look different for every child, and sometimes, the right support can make

all the difference,” MODEC’s Country Manager, Rafael Fumis, stated. He pointed out that the company firmly believes that its contributions to Guyana’s development must extend beyond its operations, reflecting in how it supports people, strengthens communities and creates opportunities for Guyanese to participate meaningfully in the country’s development. According to Fumis, for that development to be meaningful, it must be inclusive. “Inclusion is not simply giving someone a seat in the classroom; it is giving them a genuine opportunity to learn, participate and succeed through support. As we close this programme today, I hope we see this not as an ending, but as a transition to what comes next – a new classroom, another level of education, skills training, university or perhaps a career that you may not yet imagine… There is a place for you in Guyana’s future,

and MODEC is proud to have played a part in helping you prepare for it,” the Country Manager stated. Meanwhile, Assistant Chief Education Officer – Special Education Needs at the Education Ministry, Dr Keon Cheong, also emphasised the importance of quality and equitable education and noted that the ministry cannot do this alone. “Our partnership with external organisations and the development partners allows us to extend the opportunities, such as this one, to introduce innovative approaches and to provide additional support to learners who need it most. The support provided through this programme is an excellent example of what can happen when partners share a common commitment to improving the lives and educational outcomes of children,” Dr Cheong noted. He further pointed out that initiatives like this play a vital role in improving the quality of life, especially for children with special education needs and disabilities. The ACEO noted that while these vulnerable children may require differentiated teaching approaches and technology or even individual support, it does not take away from their ability to thrive. In fact, he lauded the programme’s virtual component that targeted learners who are blind or visually impaired, adding that it demonstrates the importance of technology in expanding the access to learning. Dr Cheong noted that the three learners who sat the NGSA this year, coupled with two blind students writing the National Literacy Exam with Braille, highlights the progress being made in the Special Education Needs sector in recent years.

8 NEWS

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Young businessman found dead in car with gunshot wound Protecting… T

he lifeless body of 33-year-old Satayanand Persaud, a businessman of Industry, East Coast Demerara and of Affiance, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), was on Tuesday found dead in his parked motor car along the Ogle Road with a gunshot wound to his chest. Reports are that relatives attempted to make contact with the businessman, who is the son of a popular

Essequibo Coast pandit, to no avail. They subsequently launched a search, during which his motor car was found parked along the Ogle Road with the engine running. Upon checking inside, Persaud’s motionless body was found lying in the driver’s seat with an apparent gunshot wound to his chest. A firearm was also found inside the vehicle. An investigation has been launched into the incident.

Dead: Satayanand Persaud

Water St stabbing

Salesman charged with 2 counts of manslaughter, granted $1.5M bail

Charged: Angelo Answick

lmost one week after 23-year-old Werford Vincent Trim and 36-year-old Tyrone Captain were stabbed to death during a brawl along Water Street, Georgetown, a sales representative was on Wednesday slapped with two counts of manslaughter. Angelo Answick from

Industry, East Coast Demerara (ECD), appeared before Magistrate Leron Daly at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, where the charges were read to him. Police stated that he unlawfully killed Captain, a labourer of Eversham, Corentyne, Berbice, and Trim, also known as “Junior Browne”, a vendor of Durban Backlands, Georgetown, on August 7 along Water Street, Georgetown. Estwick was represented by Attorney-at-Law Kiswana Jefford from the law firm of Hughes, Fields and Stoby, who made a bail application on his behalf. She told the court that Estwick was attacked by the two men and was defending himself on the day in question.

Dead: Werford Vincent Trim

Dead: Tyrone Captain

A Police Officer reportedly confirmed that CCTV footage disclosed that the two men had trailed Estwick to the place where the incident occurred, and that one of them had attacked him with a bottle before an altercation ensued. Moreover, the court heard that another man,

other than the two deceased, was involved in the incident with the defendant. He reportedly fled the scene. After listening to the arguments presented by the attorney, Magistrate Daly set bail in the sum of $1.5 million. The accused is expected to return to court on September 23, 2026.

Cop under close arrest for brandishing toy gun

Police Constable was placed under close arrest following an incident on Monday, involving a civilian at Policeman Corner, Westminster, West Bank Demerara (WBD). Based on reports, the 25-year-old civilian was standing along the roadway with several others when a motor car reportedly approached the area and allegedly came close to colliding with his motorcycle. An exchange subsequently ensued, during which the 29-year-old Police Constable

The toy gun that was found in possession

allegedly exited the vehicle, lifted his jersey, and held onto what appeared to be a firearm at his waist, causing those present to become fearful. Acting on information received, ranks intercepted the motor car and contacted the Police Constable. A search was conducted on his person, during which a toy gun was unearthed. He was escorted to the La Parfaite Harmonie Police Station, where he was placed under close arrest as investigations continue.

“US-Guyana relationship has never been...

FROM PAGE 3

Mutual security interest

Meanwhile, the discussions also covered matters of mutual security interest, including regional stability, countering transnational organised crime, and the continued development of Guyana’s defence and security capabilities. Existing areas of bilateral cooperation were also reviewed, with attention also given to opportunities for further collabo-

ration. “The signing of the MOA marks a further step in the Guyana-United States defence relationship. It establishes arrangements for sustained military engagement, professional development and capacity building, while the assignment of liaison officers will provide a direct channel for coordination. The arrangement will support continued coopera-

tion in areas of mutual defence and security interest,” the GDF said in a statement following Tuesday’s meeting. Also attending that high-level engagement were National Security Advisor Gerald Gouveia, AA; Director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency, Colonel Sheldon Howell, MSM; and Director of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), James Singh.

Deputy Secretary Landau was accompanied by United States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot; Chief of the United States Military Liaison Group, Captain (USN) Christopher Bernotavacius; Staff Assistant, Will Herter; Political/Economic Chief, Russell Zalizniak; and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) representatives, Jose Callazo and Logan Council.

…with cybersecurity

n a surreal move last week, AI giants OpenAI and Anthropic said their models – ChatGPT and Claude – “broke out” of their testing environments and HACKED into other companies!! Following them, Meta (Facebook) announced that one of its AI models had hacked into another company during a cybersecurity evaluation!! Meanwhile, several US hedge funds were also targeted by cyber phishing attacks!! So while the US Deputy Secretary of State Landau’s helping with our national security by funding aerial intelligence to secure our air domain, in this age of hybrid warfare an evergreater danger is posed by our enemies hacking into our digital infrastructure and bringing all our investments crashing around our ears!! The episodes above, after all, are unfolding against a broader cyber arms race being accelerated by frontier AI models and the inherent risks brought by fast-moving technological capabilities!! So, to your Eyewitness, it makes sense that while data centres have dominated our first phase of AI CapEx to use our GtE energy – and we’re understandably excited about the prospect of becoming a regional digital hub – cybersecurity has gotta dominate our next spending boom!! Or else, there’s a danger of building the digital equivalent of a heavily fortified warehouse while neglecting the security guards!! Those warnings about the rapidly developing capabilities of autonomous AI agents should be a wake-up call!! Even more pointedly, reports this week describe what’s being characterised as an “autonomous AI-driven cyberattack” against Taiwanese Government systems, in which multiple AI agents reportedly mapped vulnerabilities, compromised accounts and adapted their tactics as the operation progressed!! The significance for Guyana should be obvious!! Our Govt is simultaneously digitising Government services, expanding its communications infrastructure, contemplating large-scale data centres and increasingly connecting critical infrastructure to digital systems. Their Digital Guyana strategy recognises the importance of data security – but the US Department of Commerce has identified gaps in our regulatory framework concerning cybersecurity, data protection and AI. That combination creates an enormous opportunity – but also an enormous target!! We gotta think of cybersecurity as critical national infrastructure – and not merely as an IT department’s responsibility!! But there’s another dimension which we can’t overlook – people!! One of our country’s biggest constraints is our shortage of advanced ICT skills, but instead of treating cybersecurity as another area in which Guyana must perpetually import expertise, the Government has gotta use our oil revenues to create a national pipeline of cybersecurity professionals!! By whatever means necessary!! Minimally, we have gotta proceed with a zero-trust architecture, least-privilege access, human authorisation for high-risk actions, continuous monitoring, network segmentation, and independent auditing!! We can’t measure our digital transformation by data centre capacity constructed. The metric is much simpler – can we keep the lights on when somebody – or something – tries to switch them off? …national patrimony Your Eyewitness finds it wonderfully convenient about LOO Sanction Man suddenly discovering the importance of scrutinising Government tenders for the new La Grange–Parika highway!! While major public contracts deserve scrutiny, where was the same forensic concern when large tracts of Guyana were being awarded for gold mining and quarrying – his area of business?!! Highway contracts involve public money and have gotta be transparent. But mining concessions involve something even more fundamental – the allocation of the country’s natural resources. When substantial acreage is granted for gold and quarrying, taxpayers are entitled to know the terms, value, royalties, environmental obligations, and benefits flowing back to the State. Especially from a man the US says evaded billions in taxes by smuggling!! So let’s scrutinise the La Grange–Parika contract – publish the bids, evaluations, costs and justification. But apply the same standard to Sanction Man’s concessions!! Otherwise, it’s gonna look less like a principled campaign for transparency and more like “scrutinise my opponent’s contracts, but leave my concessions alone.” What’s fair… …the CCJ’s honour The Regional Judicial and Legal Services Commission – which appoints Judges to the CCJ – announced it will review the extant potentially fatal brouhaha!! Your Eyewitness suggests incumbent Chair Justice Anderson recuses himself – and Justice Saunders is brought aboard. The views expressed in this column are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Guyana Times’ editorial policy and stance

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

10 NEWS

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Lone gunman Berbice duo busted with 9.2kg of ganja in GTown operation escapes with $1.3M from betting shop

long gunman carried out a brazen daylight robbery at a business place at Tuschen, East Bank, Essequibo (EBE), on Monday, carting off with $1,340,000 in cash. Police stated that a 26-year-old cashier of Tuschen, EBE, had opened the establishment for business when a male entered and requested an online top-up. While the cashier was conducting the transaction,

The ganja found in the trunk of the car in which the suspects were travelling

the suspect allegedly held her at gun point and instructed her not to make any noise. He then proceeded to the back of the counter and removed the cash. The suspect subsequently exited the establishment and escaped on a waiting motorcycle with an accomplice. Police stated that several persons were questioned, and CCTV footage is being reviewed as investigations continue.

25-year-old construction worker of New Market Street, Rose Hall Town, Berbice, and a 24-year-old farmer of Eversham, East Corentyne, Berbice were taken into custody following the discovery of a quantity of cannabis along Cemetery Road, Georgetown, on Monday evening. Based on reports received, a motor car in which the two men were travelling was intercept-

ed and searched, during which two black garbage bags containing the cannabis were found in the trunk. The two men were arrested and escorted to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters with the suspected cannabis, which was weighed and amounted to 9.20 kilograms (kg). They remain in custody pending charges. Meanwhile, in another operation, this time on the

The ganja that was found on the abandoned plot of land at Meten-Meer-Zorg

West Coast of Demerara (WCD), Police searched an abandoned plot of land at Meten-Meer-Zorg, where a quantity of cannabis was discovered concealed in a clump of bushes. The can-

nabis was taken to the CID Headquarters, where it was weighed and amounted to 148 grams. At the time of the operation, no arrests were made.

11 4 years after allegedly setting wife on fire husband faces murder trial A NEWS

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

man accused of killing his wife back in 2022, in Corentyne, Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), is now facing a Judge and jury for the alleged crime. Tavita

Natasha Lall died after allegedly being set on fire by her husband, Dipnarine Seelall. On Tuesday, the case formally got underway with the empanelling of a jury.

Pensioner slapped with child rape charge, granted $1M bail

65-year-old pensioner of Johanna Cecilia, Essequibo Coast, has been charged with the rape of a child under 16 years. Krishn Mohan Persaud, also known as “Uncle Mike”, appeared at the Charity Magistrate’s Court on Monday, where the charge was read to him before Magistrate Ravindra Mohabiar. Persaud was charged under Section 10(3) of the Sexual Offences Act, Chapter 8:03, in relation to an alleged offence committed against a female juvenile between May 14, 2025, and July 29, 2026. As the charge is indictable, Persaud was not required to enter a plea. The court granted him bail in the sum of $1 million, with conditions that he report to the Suddie Police Station on the first and

Dead: Tavita Natasha Lall

Charged: Krishn Mohan Persaud, called “Uncle Mike”

third Friday of each month. He was also ordered to remain at least 100 feet away from the alleged victim and have no contact with her. The case was adjourned to September 24.

Attorney-at-law Merissa Edwards is appearing for the State, while Attorney Vinay Punwa is representing Seenarine. The prosecution is expected to call 17 witnesses during the trial. They comprise seven residents of the community, eight Police Officers and two doctors, including a pathologist. Justice Gino Persaud adjourned the matter to August 18, when the prosecution is expected to call its first witness. The case dates back to January 14, 2022, when 42-year-old Tavita Natasha Lall was severely burnt during an incident at her Number 64 Village, Upper Corentyne, home. Lall, a mother of four, who had worked as a sweeper-cleaner at the Tagore Memorial Secondary School, had

been living with her husband, Dipnarine Seelall, also called “Narei”, for approximately two years. Reports at the time indicated that the couple had been involved in an argument before Lall was engulfed in flames after coming into contact with kerosene while she was preparing to cook. Neighbours reportedly heard her screams and rushed to the house. At the time, the door was locked, and neighbours had to force their way inside to rescue the badly burnt woman. Lall was initially rushed to the Skeldon Hospital be-

On trial: Dipnarine Seelall

fore being transferred to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital and subsequently to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) because of the severity of her injuries. She suffered extensive burns and underwent several surgical procedures. Seelall was arrested following the incident, and initial-

ly charged with attempted murder and remanded to prison. After battling her injuries for approximately five weeks, Lall died at the Georgetown Public Hospital on February 22, 2022. Following her death, a murder charge was instituted against Seelall.

12 NEWS

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

HEART Initiative steps up long-term support for MV Barima survivors, families

The Steering Committee of the HEART Initiative meeting with President Dr Irfaan Ali on Wednesday at State House

resident Dr Irfaan Ali has met with the Steering Committee of the Hope, Empathy, Aid, Resilience, and Trust (HEART) Initiative to review ongoing support for survivors and families affected by the MV Barima tragedy. The meeting held on Wednesday focused on the support mechanisms implemented since the initiative was established in July 2026, and ways to strengthen assistance to those affected. The HEART Initiative was launched by President Ali as a national framework to provide sustained psychosocial support, humanitarian assistance and recovery resources to survivors, families and communities impacted by the tragedy. According to the Human Services and Social Security Ministry, a coordinating secretariat has been established under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Dominic Shepherd of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), with oversight from Human Services Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud and

the Ministry. The initiative brings together religious and civil society leaders from various faiths and is intended to provide a range of support, including spiritual and religious assistance, children’s wellbeing and welfare services, education support and the development of parent and family support networks. Regional units have also been established to provide sustained psychological, social and religious support to affected families and communities. The Office of the First Lady will complement support being provided to children through the initiative. The Ministry said the HEART Initiative will build on assistance already being provided by Government agencies and other organisations, including the Ministries of Human Services and Social Security, Health and Education, as well as the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), the Guyana Association of Professional Social Workers and the University of Guyana (UG). That assistance includes psy-

chotherapy, grief counselling, humanitarian support, financial assistance and other interventions for individuals and families affected by the tragedy. Beneficiaries so far include families of those who died, crew members and their families, survivors and children affected by the incident. Following Wednesday’s meeting, President Ali said the committee had updated him on the support provided to date and that discussions were held on further strengthening the care available to survivors and affected families. The committee is expected to continue visiting affected families and communities in the coming weeks, while working with the wider Guyanese community, the Private Sector, religious organisations, humanitarian groups and international agencies. The initiative is intended to provide continued support as affected families and survivors deal with the aftermath of the MV Barima tragedy.

NEWS

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Dragon fruit blossoms signal new farming opportunity for Guyana’s farmers – FAO Commission (GLSC) with support from the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), and funded by the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund (GRIF). Farmers received dragon fruit plants, fertiliser, trellises, practical training and continued technical support to establish commercial orchards. But success depended on months of dedication – including preparing the land, training the plants to climb, managing irrigation and patiently waiting for the first signs of flowering. “I was so excited when my plants reached the flowering stage. Some days, I’d walk through the field just to see if anything had changed,” said Wanda Lakna with a smile. “Watching the plants grow little by little kept me

ine months ago, growing dragon fruit was an unfamiliar idea for many farmers along the Linden-Soesdyke Highway. Today, rows of climbing cactus plants are rewarding their patience with spectacular white blossoms and fruits – the first visible sign that this new agricultural opportunity is succeeding. “This is my first time planting dragon fruit, and I am surprised by how quickly it has reached production. The commercial potential is limitless. I am already expanding my farm, and, with Mr Van Son’s ongoing guidance, I have learnt how to identify and manage diseases. I was willing to learn because I saw an opportunity to create something better for my family,” said William Adams. For the farmers participating in the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) dragon fruit pilot initiative, these first blooms represent far more than fruit. They symbolise

perseverance and teamwork for a more resilient future. The initiative was launched under the Sustainable Land Development and Management (SLDM) Project, implemented by the Guyana Lands and Surveys

motivated. I’m learning that dragon fruit performs better in open fields than under shade, so I’m clearing more land and expanding,” added her sister, Naphnis Lakna. Known for their large, fra-

grant blooms that open for just a single night, dragon fruit flowers signal that fruit production is close. For the farmers, seeing those blossoms for the first time was both emotional and reassuring. “When I saw the first flower, I knew this could become a successful business. I used the guidebook, followed the expert advice, and I’m now producing and in the process of expanding my farm,” said Muhammed Haroon. This month, FAO international dragon fruit expert Nguyen Van Son returned to Guyana to continue mentoring farmers. During field visits, he has been helping them to identify diseases, improve plant health and apply practical techniques to support healthy fruit production.

Expand to St Cuthbert’s Mission

Encouraged by the pilot’s early success, FAO has

now expanded the initiative to St Cuthbert’s Mission, where a new startup farm is giving Community Service Officers hands-on experience in dragon fruit cultivation while creating opportunities for future livelihood development. For FAO, the success of the pilot extends beyond the flowering plants. It is about demonstrating how innovation, practical training and sustained technical support can em-

diversify incomes, strengthen resilience and improve livelihoods. Sustainability will depend on farmers, institutions and partners continuing to work together,” said Dr Gillian Smith, FAO Representative in Guyana. For these farmers, the first flowers are more than the beginning of a harvest. They represent the confidence to embrace something new, the value of knowledge shared across borders, and

power farmers to embrace new opportunities. It is also building resilient farming systems that are better prepared for changing markets and climates. “It is encouraging to see the enthusiasm and progress of these farmers. Dragon fruit offers much more than a new crop; it creates opportunities to

the promise of new opportunities for their families. What began as an unfamiliar crop is now blossoming into a brighter` future – one flower at a time. (Feature written and submitted by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations – Guyana Representation)

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Stop manufacturing crises – Enmore Hospital Chief to US-sanctioned LOO …says Mohamed distorting newborn case for political theatre “Mohamed can manufacture a narrative. He cannot manufacture away the record. And on healthcare, the record speaks for itself” – Enmore Hospital Chief US-sanctioned and indicted, LOO Azruddin Mohamed

he administrator of the Enmore Regional Hospital, Dr Badyel Bakhsh, has rejected claims by United States (US)sanctioned and indicted Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed about the hospital’s handling of a newborn, saying the transfer of the child was part of the public healthcare system’s referral process and not evidence of a failing health system. In a letter to the editor, Bakhsh said Mohamed’s recent commentary on the transfer of the newborn from Enmore

Regional Hospital sought to create the impression that the facility did not have neonatal ventilators. “That is simply false,” Bakhsh said. According to the hospital administrator, Enmore had neonatal ventilators at the time, but the equipment was being used to care for other critically ill babies. He said the medical team stabilised the newborn, identified available capacity elsewhere in the public health system and safely transferred the child. The child, he added, is alive and well. Bakhsh argued that the incident demonstrated the referral system functioning as intended. “No serious person should expect every hospital to have

unlimited intensive-care capacity at every moment,” he said, noting that modern healthcare systems depend on networks of hospitals, specialist services, referrals, and transfers. He said what matters is whether a patient is stabilised, appropriately transferred, and receives the necessary care.

Accountability requires facts

Bakhsh accused Mohamed of focusing on outrage rather than the clinical realities surrounding the case. He also pointed to the record of the Enmore Regional Hospital since it opened in July 2025. According to the figures provided, the hospital has recorded 33,331 outpatient

visits, 25,359 emergency visits, 4337 admissions and 556 deliveries. The facility has also performed 125 Caesarean sections and 218 general surgeries. Its diagnostic services have included 51,583 laboratory tests, 19,073 X-rays, 2,29 CT scans and 6035 ultrasounds. “These are not slogans. These are patients treated, mothers delivered, emergencies managed, surgeries performed and diagnostic services provided,” Bakhsh said. He said that the Government and public institutions should be subjected to scrutiny, but argued that such scrutiny must be

based on facts. “There is nothing wrong with scrutinising the Government. Indeed, public officials and public institutions must be held accountable. But accountability requires facts,” he said. Bakhsh contended that presenting a clinical referral as evidence of systemic failure amounted to political theatre rather than accountability. He also expressed concern that such claims could undermine public confidence in doctors, nurses and other healthcare workers who provide services to Guyanese. The administrator said that Guyana’s healthcare sys-

tem is not perfect, and said no responsible Government should pretend otherwise. However, he said the system is expanding, with new hospitals being built, diagnostic capacity increasing, specialist services growing, and more Guyanese receiving healthcare services closer to where they live. “That transformation should be debated vigorously. But it should be debated on the evidence,” Bakhsh said. “Mohamed can manufacture a narrative. He cannot manufacture away the record. And on healthcare, the record speaks for itself,” he added.

High winds damage 15 homes at Arau …CDC leads multi-sector response

The damaged houses at Arau, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni)

he Civil Defence Commission (CDC) is coordinating a multi-sector response following reports of high winds that damaged several residential structures in Arau, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni). Preliminary information provided by the Village Toshao indicates that 15 houses have been affected, with damage reported mainly to roofs and other sections of the structures. According to the CDC, the figures remain subject to verification as assessment teams continue to determine the full extent of the dam-

age to households and community infrastructure. The response is being coordinated by the CDC with support from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Guyana Police Force, Regional Democratic Council, and Arau Village leaders. The GDF has mobilised personnel and resources to assist with the response, while local and regional officials continue to provide information from the affected community. The ongoing assessment is expected to help the CDC identify priority needs and determine whether additional resources

are required to assist affected residents. As an immediate measure, the CDC said it will mobilise an initial quantity of emergency shelter materials for households whose homes have been damaged. Additional relief supplies and assistance may be provided based on the findings of the assessment. The Commission has also indicated that it is prepared to establish emergency shelter arrangements if required. The CDC said it will continue to monitor the situation.

NEWS

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Fishing boat displaces koker door at Schoonord

…NDIA moves to stabilise structure

he Agriculture Ministry, on Wednesday evening, said that it was taking steps to stabilise a koker at Schoonord after a fishing boat reportedly came loose and pressed against the structure, resulting in the displacement of one of its doors. Agriculture Minister Zulfikar

Mustapha and National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) Chairman Lionel Wordsworth were on site, assessing the situation and the impact on drainage operations in the area. According to the Ministry, the NDIA has begun immediate intervention to secure the koker and prevent further disrup-

tion. As part of the response, stop logs are being installed to stabilise the structure and safeguard drainage operations. The Ministry said the intervention is aimed at securing the koker while efforts continue to address the situation following the reported incident involving the fishing boat.

Youth urged to shape policies as Guyana, CARICOM mark International Youth Day

Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, with some young people during a recent visit to the UN

oung people across Guyana and the Caribbean have been urged to play a greater role in shaping policies and decisions that affect their lives, as the region observes International Youth Day 2026 under the theme “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations”. In a message marking International Youth Day on Wednesday, Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, said the theme reflects the shared aspirations of young people despite differences in their countries and circumstances. “Across different continents and circumstances, young people share the same aspirations and hope for quality education, decent work, good health and wellbeing, and reduced in-

equalities,” RodriguesBirkett said in a message posted by the Permanent Mission of Guyana to the United Nations. She said young people must continue to be engaged as “shapers and contributors” to policies, describing this as necessary to deliver on their common aspirations. Rodrigues-Birkett also recognised the contribution of young people in helping to shape a better future, extending greetings to them on International Youth Day 2026. Similar sentiments were expressed by CARICOM Secretary General (SG) Dr Carla Barnett, who said young people across the Caribbean continue to contribute to national and regional development. Barnett said the theme highlights the fact that young people come from dif-

ferent countries, cultures and communities but share many of the same goals, including access to quality education, decent work, safety, good health, opportunities and a meaningful voice in decisions affecting their lives. She noted that young people are pursuing these aspirations against a backdrop of rapid technological change, climate-related disasters, rising living costs, crime and violence, as well as concerns about mental and emotional health. According to the CARICOM SG, young people have historically contributed to the region’s economies, culture, sport, public institutions and social movements. She said that contribution continues through entrepreneurship, digital innovation, agriculture, climate action, volunteerism, the creative

industries and community leadership. Barnett said youth development is central to regional growth and sustainable development, warning that policies are less responsive when young people’s experiences are excluded from decision-making. She pointed to the revised CARICOM Youth Development Action Plan, which focuses on areas including education, decent work, access to finance and mental health support, while placing emphasis on entrepreneurship, environ-

mental sustainability, digitisation and technology. She also highlighted regional initiatives such as the CARICOM Single Market and Economy, the CARICOM Youth Ambassador Programme and the CARICOM Young Professionals Programme, which seek to strengthen links between education, employment, entrepreneurship, mobility and public service. The SG also drew attention to inequalities in access to opportunities, noting that rural and hin-

terland youth, young people with disabilities, indigenous youth, migrants, unemployed youth, young women and girls, and those outside education or training face additional barriers. Barnett encouraged Caribbean youth to put forward their ideas, build connections across borders and use their skills to strengthen their communities and the wider region. “CARICOM remains committed to working with you in shaping that future,” she said.

16 NEWS

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Outreaches a permanent feature of “our work as a Govt” – Nandlall A

ttorney General (AG) Anil Nandlall has rejected claims that the Government’s recent outreach activities are intended to distract from the MV Barima tragedy, maintaining that such engagements are an integral part of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C)’s grassroots political work. Nandlall made the remarks during his weekly programme, “Issues in the News”, on Tuesday evening, responding to claims within the political sphere that the Government’s recent public outreach activities are aimed at diverting attention from the July 18 MV Barima

tragedy. “Public outreaches are an indispensable factor in our political work and has always been and will always be,” he posited, highlighting that grassroots engagements are conducted by the PPP/C both in and out of Government. “Outreaches, whether as a collective or individual Ministers is a permanent feature of our work as a Government and as of our work as a political party, and the history of Guyana is replete with examples, illustrating and demonstrating that philosophy at work,” Nandlall contended. He pointed out that throughout the years, PPP/C Ministers

Attorney General & Legal Affairs Minister, Anil Nandlall, at a recent outreach at Foulis Community Resource Centre, East Coast Demerara

are, on a weekly basis, in the fields interacting with citizens. The AG further noted that the PPP/C is the only political party within the British Commonwealth that holds Cabinet outreaches across the country, where Ministers, Parliamentarians and senior Government officials visit different regions and spend days meeting the people. In fact, he highlighted that outreaches have

been ongoing since after the September 2025 elections and that the recent one led by President Dr Irfaan Ali to Region One (Barima-Waini) had long been planned, before the fatal ferry accident. “We started cabinet outreaches just after the September 1, 2025 elections. In November, we were in Region Six on a Cabinet outreach programme; in December 2025, we were in Region Three. June 2026, we were in Region Seven. All of this happened before

the MV Barima sank. July 2026, we were in Region Two; August we were in Region One. The Region One outreach [was planned] long (before). These things were planned since last year. And we have planned for the rest of the year; in September we will be in Region Ten,” the AG explained. In this regard, he rejected and condemned comments suggesting that the Government outreaches are intended to distract from the MV Barima tragedy,

noting that they “deliberately lie”. The MV Barima was a state-owned passenger and cargo ferry that sank on July 18, 2026, off the Essequibo Coast in one of the worst maritime disasters in the country’s history. The tragedy resulted in dozens of fatalities and criminal charges against crew members. A presidential Commission of Inquiry (CoI), comprising international and regional members, has been established to probe the circumstances surrounding the incident, while the Government has issued a request for proposals inviting companies to submit bids for the salvaging of the vessel. President Ali has also launched the Hope, Empathy, Aid, Resilience and Trust (HEART) Initiative to offer humanitarian aid, counselling, and financial support to the survivors and grieving families of the tragedy. He has also established a Safety and Compliance Audit Team to undertake a comprehensive review of the safety and compliance standards governing marine vessels operating in Guyana.

Scotiabank expands digital features to reduce branch visits

cotiabank Guyana is expanding its digital banking services, introducing new features aimed at making banking more accessible and reducing the need for clients to visit branches. According to the bank in a press release on Wednesday, over the past year, the bank has invested in digital capabilities, streamlined processes and self-service solutions across its retail and business banking channels. The release stated that among the latest enhancements are upgrades to the Scotia Caribbean App and Scotia OnLine platforms, including online account enrollment, allowing new clients to open accounts without visiting a branch. Clients can also receive email alerts for deposit credits, while payroll credit notifications are enabled by default. Other features include the ability to personalise account names and lock or unlock debit cards in real time. The bank said the upgrades are intended to give clients greater control over their finances and allow them to conduct transactions at any time. Scotiabank has also expanded its 24/7 self-service capabilities through

the rollout of next-generation Intelligent Deposit Machines. The machines allow clients to make deposits, transfers and bill payments, as well as service loans. The machines support envelope-free deposits and near real-time access to funds, while reducing transaction times.

Upgraded ScotiaConnect

According to the bank, digital adoption currently stands at 40 per cent, with more than 90 per cent of all transactions being completed through digital channels. Scotiabank is also targeting business clients through upgrades to its payment acceptance services. Unmanned kiosk technology and a proprietary application allow businesses to conduct self-service transactions, with funds credited within 24 hours. The

bank has also upgraded its ScotiaConnect online business banking platform with a more user-friendly interface for commercial clients. Scotiabank Guyana Country Head Nafeeza Gaffoor said the bank’s focus is on making it easier for clients to conduct business. “We are focused on making it easier for our clients to do business with us,” Gaffoor said. “By combining digital innovation with streamlined processes, we are delivering faster, more convenient and reliable banking solutions that meet the evolving needs of individuals and businesses across Guyana.” The bank said it will continue to focus on digital solutions as client expectations change, with the aim of improving access, turnaround times and convenience across its banking services.

NEWS

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Guyana Energy Conference 2027 to drive partnerships in gas, tech, emerging frontiers

he Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo (GECSCE) will return next year, with a major focus on driving partnerships in gas, technology and emerging frontiers. The 2027 edition was launched on Tuesday, under the theme “Beyond Frontiers: Guyana’s Energy Story”. This marks the sixth consecutive edition of the conference, underscoring its growing significance to Guyana’s rapid development. Speaking during the launch of the event, set for February 1619, Head of the Local Content Secretariat, Michael Munroe, highlighted the importance of the forum to the country’s growing oil and gas economy. “It has become one of the defining platforms through which Guyana speaks to the world and through which the world engages with Guyana,” he said. Munroe further emphasised that the event provides valuable platforms for forging partnerships and attracting investments that can contribute meaningful-

ly to Guyana’s continued transformation. “Guyana’s story is still being written. Of course, you have the opportunity to leave an indelible mark. Government is providing the platform for you to do so,” he noted. “The choices we make now about how we invest, how we govern, how we share the benefits of this moment will determine whether this era is remembered…” Also delivering remarks at the launch was President of ExxonMobil Guyana, Alistair Routledge, who noted that the Energy Conference explores Guyana’s gas resources in greater detail, including the investment strategies and opportunities surrounding their development. “The story of Guyana’s energy has been oil to date, but we’re on the cusp of gas. Of course, we’ve already laid the pipeline to deliver gas to the Wales area in Region Three. The Government is working to complete the project at Wales to take that gas, to have a stream of natural gas liquids, cooking gas, for many purposes, but also the

The launch of the 2027 edition of the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo

power plant, to transform the supply of energy to Guyana to make it more reliable, lower cost and lower emissions. We’re on that cusp; that

frontier is about to be broken. But we’re also at the frontier of expanding gas as fuel of the local economy into Berbice,” Routledge explained.

“We’ve talked about it at last year’s conference. I’m sure we will talk a lot more in 2027. What is the future of gas in Guyana? What are the industries of the future? Who will be the players? When will it happen? All questions we will be able to talk about in February 2027,” he added. Routledge also noted that the conference will also explore the use of technology in the industry. “AI [artificial intelligence] that we’re deploying in our operations, that we’re using to ensure we maximise the recovery of oil from the reservoirs offshore Guyana. The digital technologies that are enabling what’s possible,” the ExxonMobil Guyana President noted. “Our industry is transforming, Guyana’s economy is transforming, the future is bright. How do we leverage that technology as we move forward? How do we think bigger and bolder? How do we go behind?” He added, noting that these are questions the conference will answer.

Model village initiative

Supenaam, Good Hope, set for major community upgrades

esidents of Supenaam and Good Hope, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), are set to benefit from approximately 7600 to 7700 metres of new drains under the Government’s Model Village Initiative. Minister within the Housing Ministry, Vanessa Benn, presented residents with a proposal for the development of the community, based on assessments conducted by architects, engineers, surveyors and other technical personnel over the past several weeks and months. Using a rendering, Benn walked residents through the proposed works, displaying maps of the areas, including their drains, roads, and boundaries. She also showed residents conceptual renders of what the upgraded community could look like while outlining the proposed works, which are expected to be implemented in phases. The presentation also highlighted issues involving road reserves and other

reserves within the community, including areas where persons are reportedly occupying those spaces illegally. “Okay, so for the village of Supenaam, Good Hope, you’re about 227 acres with 5700-plus streets, over 600 households, over 40 businesses and shops, two public government offices, one playground, one cemetery, and the existing concrete drains measure about 83 metres. Based on the assessment by our technical teams done over the last few months, they’ve identified that just 7600, let’s say about 7700 metres of drains need to be constructed.” Benn further outlined the proposed next steps, noting that residents would have an opportunity to share their views, ideas, suggestions and concerns as part of the development process. According to Benn, the proposed intervention is intended to address several of the longstanding issues affecting residents across the various communities. She said the works will focus on improving drain-

age systems, upgrading roads and road shoulders, and addressing the issue of garbage collection, which she identified as a recurring concern raised by residents during consultations across different Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) areas. Benn said there is a need for garbage to be removed from communities on a more frequent basis, while also tackling the accumulation of derelict and abandoned vehicles along roadways and road shoulders. She pointed out that old cars, trucks, and other abandoned vehicles are not only creating unsightly conditions but, in some instances, are also being left in drains, further contributing to problems within the communities. Apart from these concerns, Benn said the proposed programme will target a wider range of public infrastructure, including roads, bridges, drains, lantern posts, and street lighting. She stressed that the im-

provements are also intended to make communities safer and more accessible for residents, particularly pedestrians, through the development and improvement of walkways and road shoulders. According to Benn, the proposed works form part of a broader effort to improve the overall condition and appearance of communities, while ensuring that public infrastructure is upgraded to better serve residents. Benn also emphasised the importance of incorporating green spaces as part of the overall community development initiative. She said the plans would include efforts to preserve and enhance shade trees, introduce ornamental plants and beautify public areas, including roadways and play parks. “Key and integral as part of this whole process and initiative as well is looking at how we have green spaces, how do we look at the nice shade trees, how do we have those beautiful ornamental plants that truly

beautify not only our respective yards, but our community along the roadways, in the play parks, etc. And how do we upgrade those public spaces? And for me as well, and for the President indeed, how do we after this intervention maintain it? How do we maintain it?” According to Benn, the

technical assessment also included an inspection of utility poles, which she referred to as “lantern poles”, to determine their condition. She said the assessment identified poles that were rotten or leaning and those requiring replacement, while also determining areas where additional poles may be needed.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026

guyanatimesgy.com

Regional

Woman pulled alive from rubble Former MP warns T&T could face backlash 36 hours after Colombia quake if US political tide turns against Trump

32-year-old woman, who had been trapped under rubble for 36 hours following the 7.4-magnitude quake which shook western Colombia, has been rescued alive. Daniela Largo was pulled from beneath a collapsed building in the city of Pereira after a 10-hourlong rescue operation. Largo’s mother said that a local resident had heard her daughter cry out for help from beneath the rubble. Once emergency workers had arrived at the site, they were able to locate Largo with the help of a small camera. However, her rescue was complicated by the fact that four heavy concrete slabs were blocking the way. Local firefighters aided by colleagues deployed from the capital, Bogotá, and the disaster response team of the national Police force

Rescue workers carry Daniela Largo, wrapped in a blue sheet, to an ambulance after freeing her from beneath the rubble

had to dig two tunnels to reach her. Through one opening, dug from above, they were able to provide Largo with oxygen. But it was only through a second tunnel, dug from below, that they were able to free her. Largo’s mother said that “at home, her 12-year-old son is waiting for her”. In Pereira, at least 92 buildings collapsed. Fifteen persons are known to be

trapped, and another 37 have been reported missing, according to Asocapitales. In Cali, Colombia’s third most populous city, more than 200 persons remained trapped as of 16:00h local time on Tuesday. At least 265 persons have died in the quake, according to Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella, who said that 496 others remain missing. (Excerpt from BBC News)

ormer Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Rodney Charles, is warning that countries which have strongly aligned themselves with US President Donald Trump could face political and diplomatic fallout if the balance of power shifts in Washington following the November mid-term elections. Charles, a former Naparima MP for the United National Congress (UNC), believes the Kamla PersadBissessar Administration should begin preparing now for that possibility, arguing that the political winds in the United States could change significantly if Democrats make major gains in Congress. In a statement titled “Is T&T preparing for a post-

Trump world?”, Charles said scenario planning was necessary to ensure this country is not caught “flat-footed” should Trump’s Republicans suffer electoral setbacks. “These winds ought to bring a chill to world leaders who have been bending the knee in support of Mr Trump’s agenda,” Charles said. He pointed to recent polling which he said showed Democrats with advantages on congressional voting preferences, the economy and voter enthusiasm, while Trump faced high disapproval ratings. “If there is a blue wave, as many predict, T&T stands to lose if it is not nimble, remains flat-footed, and lacks political gravitas,” Charles warned. His comments come against the backdrop of Prime Minister Kamla

Former Trinidad and Tobago Permanent Representative to the United Nations Rodney Charles

Persad-Bissessar’s close alignment with Washington on regional security since returning to office last year. (Excerpt from Trinidad and Tobago Guardian)

“Chef Creole” mocked for saying he regrets voting for Trump amid TPS fallout

Hegseth cautions that the ICC may investigate US boat W strikes in Latin America

nited States Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth has warned that the International Criminal Court (ICC) could investigate US military actions in Latin America, including strikes on alleged drug smuggling boats in the Caribbean decried by rights groups as extrajudicial killings. Hegseth made the statement during a speech in Panama as he pledged to strengthen a military coalition launched in March with several Latin

American countries to target drug cartels, whom the Administration of US President Donald Trump has branded “narco-terrorists”. He called on all members of the coalition to reject the ICC, an appeal that comes amid an “all-of-Government” effort by the Trump Administration to “disable” the international tribunal. Hegseth claimed that “the international left, along with their enabling left-wing media, is plotting to unlawfully assert International Criminal Court jurisdiction

over US and partner military personnel and operations.” A report published by the Washington Office on Latin America in July documented that at least 221 persons had been killed in the US strikes since September 2025. The authors described the killings as “murder under domestic law and extrajudicial killings under international human rights law”. To date, the ICC has not announced any investigations into US military actions in Latin America. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Former Mexican Governor charged in case of 43 students who vanished in 2014

he former Governor of Guerrero state in Mexico has been formally charged over his alleged involvement in the disappearance of 43 students in 2014, a case that has become a symbol of the country’s brutal cartel violence and Government impunity. Ángel Aguirre, who was arrested last week, is accused of forced disappearance and obstruction of justice for ordering the destruction of surveillance tapes that may have shed light on what happened to the students from the Ayotzinapa teacher training college on the night of September 26, 2014.

On Wednesday, a Judge ruled Mexico’s Attorney General had presented enough evidence to formally charge Aguirre with forced disappearance and ordered that he remain in a maximum security prison awaiting trial. On the night that they were abducted, the students from the Raúl Isidros Burgos teacher training college in the village of Ayotzinapa had commandeered several buses in the city of Iguala to get to a protest in Mexico City. But before they could leave Iguala, in Guerrero state, the students were attacked by a local crim-

inal gang working with municipal Police. A yearslong international investigation determined that federal forces, both Police and military, were also involved either by participating directly or failing to intervene as the students were taken away and presumably killed. The Government at the time orchestrated an elaborate coverup, attempting to place blame for the attack solely on the criminal gang and local Police. Suspects were tortured into giving false confessions, and crime scene evidence was manipulated. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

ilkinson Sejour, owner of the seven Chef Creole restaurants across South Florida, is facing backlash on social media after telling CBS Evening News he regrets voting for Donald Trump in 2024 because the President’s termination of Haitian Temporary Protected Status (TPS) has created a massive labour shortage. Sejour made the comments on August 6, amid the fallout from the end of TPS affecting roughly 350,000 Haitians, which he said has already cost him staff. He told the Miami Herald that even employees with legal status have been too afraid to come to work, and said management teams at all seven locations have quit, forcing him to shift remaining workers to cover their duties. Speaking to CBS, Sejour said he had believed Trump’s business background meant he understood “how business is conducted.” The clip

Chef Creole owner Wilkinson “Ken” Sejour

spread widely on X and Instagram, with some users saying the comment would keep them from returning to the restaurant, a South Florida fixture since 1992. Sejour defended his voting record to the Herald, pointing to scholarship funds his restaurants provide each year, and meals he said he supplied to furloughed TSA workers during a Government shutdown. “I’m an advocate for situ-

ations and issues that affect our communities,” he told the Herald. The controversy followed reports, which Sejour said were false, of an ICE raid at his restaurant. He said federal agents briefly detained a Hispanic passer-by unrelated to the business. Sejour told CBS Evening News the loss of TPS protections could force him to close two of his locations. (The Haitian Times)

Man pleads guilty after accidentally shooting himself with homemade gun

20-year-old Clare Hall man who reportedly accidentally shot himself with a modified firearm has pleaded guilty to unlawfully manufacturing and possessing the weapon and ammunition. Sekani Isaac entered the pleas in the St John’s Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday and was remanded to His Majesty’s Prison for sentencing on August 26. Isaac appeared with a blood-stained bandage on his left hand and was or-

dered to receive medical attention after telling the court the wound was still bleeding. Police began investigating on August 8, after receiving information from the Sir

Lester Bird Medical Centre. A subsequent search of Isaac’s home reportedly uncovered a modified pipe gun with a spent round lodged in the barrel. (Antigua Newsroom)

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026

guyanatimesgy.com

Around the World

Trump Administration plans to give OILNEWS OIL NEWS ICE officers electric-shock gloves T Oil prices edge up as investors weigh US-Iran talks deadlock against lower demand

il prices rose slightly on Wednesday as attacks on ships ‌in the Middle East continued and talks to end the Iran war hit an impasse. However, the gains were limited after forecasters cut global oil demand projections for 2026. Brent futures settled up seven cents at US$88.98 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude rose seven cents to US$83.27. Prices rose after a senior Iranian source told Reuters there were no discussions between Iran and the US to extend their ceasefire because, from Tehran’s perspective, the deal had no start date and so there was nothing ⁠to extend. ”The continued strength in oil prices comes as markets grow increasingly doubtful that an agreement can soon be reached to ease disruptions to crude flows from the region or prevent another escalation of the conflict,” said Simon-Peter Massabni, head of business development at broking XS.com. The US and Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis reported separate attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab elMandeb Strait on Tuesday, two crucial export routes for Middle Eastern oil and gas in addition to the Suez Canal. Shipping data showed the number of vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz fell to a one-week low of eight on Tuesday. Before the war, 125 to 140 vessels passed through the crucial waterway each day. (Excerpt from Reuters)

he Administration of United States President Donald Trump is planning to spend tens of millions of dollars to equip federal immigration agents with gloves capable of delivering electric shocks. According to a notice posted on Monday, the Department of Homeland Security has estimated it will invest between US$10m

and US$20m in such gloves by the end of March 2027. The devices are known as the CT-G5 GLOVE, an acronym that stands for “Generate Low Output Voltage Emitter”. They are currently used by some jails and Police departments. Their manufacturer, Compliant Technologies, says the gloves are used to “quickly distract with small uncomfortable ele-

ctrical pulses” when applied to a person’s skin. The Department of Homeland Security indicated they would be used for “distraction and de-escalation”. A user manual states the gloves can deliver a maximum of 380 volts, which “inhibits/distracts the subject from performing coordinated muscle movement”. The planned purchase has already sparked a

backlash among rights advocates, who fear the gloves will be used to harm protesters and immigrants in the department’s custody. The Department of Homeland Security oversees an array of agencies, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which has led Trump’s campaign of mass deportation. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Iran says no progress on reviving interim peace deal with US I

ran and the United States remain at loggerheads over efforts to agree a permanent end to the war in the Gulf, according to a senior Iranian source, who said there ‌had been no progress in talks to revive the interim deal agreed in June and define a time frame to implement it. The comments came as US President Donald Trump issued yet another broadside against Iran’s leaders, dealing a further blow to hopes for a resolution to the crisis, following new attacks

on shipping in the region on Tuesday. The deal agreed in June declared an ”immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts”, but quickly unravelled, with Trump saying it was ”over” on July 7 and Iran’s foreign ministry declaring it ”suspended” a week later. The US accuses Iran of failing to honour an agreement under the deal to reopen the vital Strait ⁠of Hormuz shipping route. Tehran says Washington

Major Russian grain export terminals hit in Black Sea port attack by Ukraine At least 1 dead, scores

has reneged on its commitments, including lifting a blockade of Iranian ports and releasing frozen Iranian assets. ”One of the issues that is being discussed via mediators is the US returning to the interim agreement and defining a time frame for implementing the commitments. There has been absolutely no progress on this issue,” the Iranian source said. Trump said on Wednesday that the US has ”total control” over the

Strait of Hormuz. But the Persian Gulf Strait Authority, the body Iran set up to manage the waterway, said it remains blocked and will not be reopened until Iran’s conditions are accepted. ”Iran is all talk and no action; the bully of the Middle East no longer,” Trump said on his Truth Social platform. Throughout the conflict, Trump has alternated between threats of escalation and claims that a peace deal is imminent. (Excerpt from Reuters)

At least 44 dead after rescued from Indonesian overcrowded ferry capsizes ferry that caught fire on Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe

”massive” Ukrainian drone and missile strike on Russia’s port of Novorossiysk has damaged two major grain export terminals and hit the last big Russian naval base on the Black Sea, reports say. Three persons, including an eight-year-old child, were killed, and another 24 injured in the overnight attack, local officials said. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Kyiv had launched rockets, jets, and naval drones in a ”unique operation” to strike the Russian base, although he did not mention grain terminals being hit. Ukraine’s military later said four Russian warships, including two frigates, were hit. Russia has not commented on the issue. ”The occupying fleet and

all the infrastructure that supports it will not be safe as long as Russian aggression continues,” Zelenskyy said in a post on social media. For its part, Moscow launched aerial overnight strikes which killed at least 11 civilians in Ukraine between Tuesday and Wednesday. The majority were killed when Russia hit the southern city of Zaporizhzhia with ballistic missiles and glide bombs. Russia is the world’s largest wheat exporter – but according to a Moscowbased analytics company, exports for August could fall by more than half compared to the same month over the last five years due to the disruption in the Black and Azov seas. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Smoke billows from passenger ferry Putri Yasmin after it caught fire while travelling in the waters of Lombok Strait, Indonesia

rews rescued 172 persons and recovered the body of a passenger from a ferry that caught fire in rough seas Wednesday near the Indonesian tourist island of Bali, authorities said. The fire started at about 04:15h while the Putri Yasmin ferry was en route from Padang Bai port in Bali to Lembar port on the neighbouring island of Lombok in West Nusa Tenggara province, according to the search and rescue office in Mataram, the provincial capital. The agency received an emergency report almost half an hour later and immediately deployed personnel and rescue vessels. ”Our top priority is the safety of all passengers and crew members,” said

Muhammad Hariyadi, who heads the Mataram Search and Rescue Office. Initial reports said the ferry was carrying 131 persons, including 17 crew members, based on the ship’s manifest, when the fire broke out in the Lombok Strait. However, hours after the incident, officials said more people were aboard than listed. It is common in Indonesia for the number of passengers on a boat or ferry to differ from the manifest. The ferry was also transporting 44 vehicles and 53 motorcycles. The National Search and Rescue Agency, or Basarnas, said rescuers evacuated 172 persons from the burnt vessel, including two Australian tourists, and recovered the body of a 19-year-old Indonesian girl.

Passengers being rescued from the ferry that capsized on Tuesday on Zimbabwe’s Lake Kariba

t least 44 persons have died after an overcrowded ferry capsized on Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe, Police said. The boat had a capacity of 90 persons, but was carrying 114 adult passengers, five crew members, and an unknown number of children, Zimbabwe’s civil protection unit (CPU) said earlier on Wednesday, citing ticket sales. A crew member told the national broadcaster ZBC that there were 153 persons onboard, when the ferry overturned on Tuesday after it hit large waves. A passenger told ZBC that the boat began taking on water about 30 minutes after it left the lakeshore town of Kariba, heading for islands and fishing camps. A specialised underwa-

ter team was flown to the area, the CPU said, as search and rescue continued on Wednesday. At the time, the CPU said the death toll was 15, with 27 known to be missing. Zimbabwe’s Police updated the death toll on Wednesday afternoon in posts on X twice in the space of 32 minutes. In the first post, it said the death toll was 38, adding: “The bodies have been retrieved from the lake.” Then it said that 44 persons were now known to have died. It is not uncommon for boats to overturn on the lake. In 2014, 26 persons, 24 of them children, drowned in Zambia’s part of the lake when the boat meant to transport them to Independence Day celebrations capsized. (Excerpt from The Guardian)

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026

guyanatimesgy.com

ARCHIE

DAILY HOROSCOPES

(March 21-April 19)

PICKLES

(April 20-May 20)

(May 21-June 20)

Change is overrated. Keep a low profile, focus on completion and refuse to let anyone lure you into an emotionally complicated conversation. Let your actions speak for you and your heart lead the way. Kindness and consideration will make it difficult for someone trying to take advantage of you to follow through. Having self-discipline will result in upgrades.

(June 21-July 22)

(July 23-Aug. 22)

Making financial decisions, handling emotions and dealing with associates will be dicey. Don’t make or agree to changes without consideration of the potential pitfalls. Overspending or committing to something prematurely will put you in an awkward position. Be precise regarding what you can contribute. Living up to the expectations others have of you is essential. Don’t brag.

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Set high standards, and don’t deviate from the path you choose. Don’t let what others do lead you astray or cost you your reputation. Align yourself with people who have as much to offer as you do, and collaborate on an understanding that offers everyone the freedom to do as they please without interference.

CALVIN AND HOBBES

(Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

Gravitate toward people who bring out the best in you. A change to how you manage your personal finances will help lower stress and add to your confidence and security. Knowing what to salvage and what to discard will be what helps you enhance your lifestyle and overhead. Shake off bad habits and people who contribute to them.

If you are honest with yourself and others, you’ll avoid taking on other people’s problems. Offer suggestions and a kind word, not hands-on help or promises you won’t be able to deliver. If you take care of matters concerning institutions, government agencies and financial situations that require discipline and your undivided attention, you’ll avoid repercussions and anxiety.

PEANUTS

SUDOKU

Avoid making decisions or wastefully spending when under emotional duress. Your highest returns will come from working hard, having discipline and finishing what you start. Leave nothing to chance or up to someone you cannot trust to complete the mission. Time and money matter and require attention to avoid loss. Job interviews are favored.

Change only what’s necessary and reasonable. Do your research, set a budget and find the right people if you need help. It’s better to play it safe than to have regrets. Putting more time and effort into preparation will end up saving you money. Personal growth, management and tolerance will be your saving graces. Avoid laziness.

(Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Rethink your way forward. Consider what you enjoy doing most, and elaborate on how you can use these skills, experience and knowledge to earn a living. Focus on learning and expanding your vision to meet the demands that offer mental, physical or emotional stimulation. Make your future your priority. Refuse to let someone lead you down the wrong path.

(Nov. 23-Dec. 21)

Your emotions and aspirations aren’t likely to mix well. Don’t lose out because you can’t decide what’s next. Shake things up, consider what serves the greatest purpose and do whatever it takes to appease your soul. Stick close to home, and take better care of your health, wealth and emotional well-being. Update your look and attitude.

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Take a moment to gather your thoughts and consider your financial position or any chronic medical concerns you have. What you discover will help you put pressure on the right people or organizations to resolve any concerns you have. If you take better care of yourself, you’ll gain momentum and the respect of onlookers. Have faith in your abilities.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

Pay attention to your relationships with loved ones and those who can influence whether or not you excel. Getting along with others is essential, and putting differences aside will benefit everyone. If you show faith in unity and diversification, you’ll win favors and have a chance to turn your aspirations into something tangible. Explore and expose your talents.

(Feb. 20-March 20)

Surround yourself with the people and possessions that put your mind at ease and that encourage you to develop and pursue what you enjoy doing most. Refuse to let the changes others make stand in your way. Step away from situations that are volatile or lower your self-esteem. Put your energy into self-improvement, not conflicts of interest.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026

RHTYSC/Republic Bank Summer Camp…

Ramdial, Mendonca cop top awards at 18th award ceremony …Over $1.5M worth of prizes distributed

he 18th annual Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTYSC) Republic Bank Summer Camp came to an end on Friday last with an impressive closing ceremony at the Area H Ground. The ceremony was attended by senior executives of the club, senior staff of Republic Bank, RHTYSC junior cricketers, students of the camp and their parents. Eleven-year-old Damali Ramdial was named Best Student of the camp by the teaching staff and carried home a total of $500,000 worth of prizes, while Akilah Mendonca received $300,000 worth of prizes as the runnerup student. Club Secretary Hilbert Foster revealed that the summer camp was first hosted in 2008 with the main objective of assisting primary school students to make a successful transition to the secondary level. Over the years, a total of 1752 youths have benefitted from the summer camp. The 2026 Summer Camp commenced on July 14, at the Area H Ground, with a registration of 83 students. The students were taught four core subjects, namely Mathematics, English, Social Studies, and Integrated

Science, while classes were also held for Introduction to Spanish. Students were also involved in several lectures on a wide range of topics related to their personal development. Among the topics were the importance of education, peer pressure, personal hygiene, the importance of discipline, teenage pregnancy, and behaviour in the classroom. The summer camp also involved a day of sports where students participated in several sporting events like the 100-metre (m) race, 200m race, 4x100m relay, tug of war, and sack races. Over $200,000 worth of prizes were up for grabs at the Day of Sports. Students also took part in a quiz competition and were able to win $100,000 worth of prizes. In addition, they benefitted from a lecture on Sports and Nature by BenHardy Jones of the Desserts Vipers Cricket team, who recently took part in the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League. Head Tutor of the Republic Bank Summer Camp, Sabrina Chaitram, hailed the camp as a resounding success, with all of the students recording scores of over 70 per cent in the final test. She noted that all of the students were committed to

expanding their studies so that they could make a successful entrance to the secondary school later this month. She urged the students to remain focused, and to develop a formula of hard work, discipline, and commitment. Chaitram warned her students that secondary school was more difficult than primary school, and that the next five years would determine the path of their lives. Senior Banking Executive at Republic Bank Williamsburg Branch, Denisa Ramdial, stated that her bank was very pleased with the RHTYSC’s organising of the Summer Camp over the last eighteen years. She noted that over the years, many of the students of the Republic Bank Summer Camp have gone on to become professionals such as doctors, lawyers, educators and auditors, among others. Student Akilah Mendonca expressed gratitude to the cricket teams of the RHTYSC for organising the Grade Six Summer Camp, and to Republic Bank for their sponsorship of the four-week event. She stated that all the students of the camp were now fully prepared for the transition to the higher level. Meanwhile, the cricket club distributed $600,000 worth

of educational materials to all of the students. The donated items included a school bag, hardcover exercise books, pens, pencils, sharpeners, erasers, rulers and water bottles. The Best Student, Ramdial, who secured 197 marks of the possible 200 at the end of the camp’s final test. She took home prizes which included a Dell computer from Beepat’s, an electric bike, an electronic tablet, a Comfort Sleep mattress, a designer watch from The Gift Centre, kitchen utensils, and household items, among numerous other prizes. The prizes of Runner-up Best Student Mendonca featured a tricycle, a laptop computer, an electronic tablet, and a Comfort Sleep mattress. The other awardees at the 2026 graduation were the following: Most Disciplined Student – Roshan Persaud Most Cooperative – Homesh Ramnarain Most Committed – Kavya Misir Most Improved – Simon Benjamin Best in Mathematics – Malia Wilson Best Science – Jovan Gray Best Social Studies – Briana Fraser Best English Student –

Top Student Damali Ramdial receives her prizes from staff of Republic Bank in the presence of her parents

Kavya Misir Best Extra-Curricular Student – Jasmen Hicks Best Reader/Speaker – Mariah Pompey They too received a wide range of prizes, including trophies, medals, bicycles, electronic tablets, educational materials, kitchen utensils, designer clothing, sporting equipment, and different hampers. RHTYSC Cricket Manager Robby Kissoonlall declared that the cricket teams distributed a total of $1.5M worth of prizes and gifts to the summer camp students. The teams organising the event were Poonai Pharmacy Under-12 and -13, Farfan and Mendes Under-15,

Bakewell Under-17, Pepsi Under-19, Metro Females and the NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Under-21. The teams sought to express their gratitude to all the sponsors who supported them in coordinating the Summer Camp, including Republic Bank, Beepat’s, Comfort Sleep, Faiz al Jaffarally, NAMILCO, Ricks and Sari Ltd, Trendsetter Tours, GNNL, The Gift Centre, National Hardware, Beacon Cafe, Global Visa, John Lewis Styles, TDM Construction, SD and L Accounting, Lennox Cush, National Assembly, Canadian Surpluses, GUYBIZ, Premcorp Consultancy Services, Data Technology and AA Snacks Co Ltd.

Dartmouth Dominators complete U13 and U15 double

The victorious Dartmouth U13 team

Dartmouth U15 won the U15 title

artmouth Dominators Football Club (FC) secured both the Boys’ Under-13 and Under-15 titles as the Essequibo Pomeroon Football Association (EPFA) brought its regional leg of the

Charity Extreme FC claimed the runner-up position in the Under-15 category. The competition concluded with a presentation ceremony on Sunday, August 9, attended by players, club

Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) Youth Ensemble Programme to a successful close. Dartmouth finished ahead of Vertex Vipers FC in the Under-13 competition, while

representatives, parents, officials, and other football stakeholders. GFF President Wayne Forde travelled from Georgetown to join the celebrations and recognise the achievements of the

young players. Several individual performers were also rewarded. Vertex Vipers’ Jamian Jones received the Under-13 Best Goalkeeper award, while Good Hope FC’s Selvin Williams finished as the leading goal-scorer in that age group. In the Under-15 division, Dartmouth Dominators’ Antwone Singh was named Best Goalkeeper, while Good Hope FC’s Yohan Anthonio collected the award for the most goals. Forde praised the EPFA Executive Committee for its dedication in delivering the competition. He also recognised the clubs, referees, parents and other stakeholders who contributed to its success. The GFF president congratulated the players for the discipline and commitment they displayed throughout the championship. He said the Youth Ensemble Programme is an ambitious

national undertaking involving more than 100 clubs across the federation’s nine regional associations. Forde also commended the GFF’s Technical and Competitions departments and emphasised that the leadership provided by the regional associations is important to developing the country’s next generation of footballers. Dartmouth Dominators and Vertex Vipers will now represent the EPFA in the Under-13 section of the GFF Youth Ensemble National Championship. Dartmouth and Charity Extreme will advance from the Under-15 competition. The four teams will face the champions and runnersup from Guyana’s other eight regional associations, when the national championship begins in the coming days. Matches will be played across all nine associations during the next stage of the youth programme.

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026

ETS renews support for Lotto/Let’s Bet One Guyana T10 Tapeball E

nvironmental Technical Solutions Inc (ETS) has officially renewed its corporate commitment for the fourth consecutive season of the Lotto/Let’sBet One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast, adding further momentum to a tournament that has already delivered highoctane sporting action across the country. Following an explosive opening leg in Berbice, the tournament now shifts its focus

to the East Bank and West Demerara regions this weekend, where several of the nation’s premier tapeball outfits will battle for regional glory and a coveted spot in the National Finals. “At ETS, we believe in supporting initiatives that bring communities together and empower local talent through sports,” said Seema Ramsoondar, Finance and Administrative Manager of ETS.

UDFA Youth Ensemble…

YMCA U13, Dainty’s Academy U15 emerge winners in Linden

The victorious YMCA U13 team

John Ramsingh (left) and Seema Ramsoondar, Finance and Administrative Manager of ETS

“The One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast has consistently elevated the standard of grassroots cricket, and we are proud to stand behind the tournament for another exciting season.” Organisers have expressed profound appreciation for the corporate backing that keeps the competition thriving. “Having ETS on board for a fourth year is a testament to the growing prestige and impact of this tournament,” noted One Guyana T10 representative Yusuf Ali, “the energy in Berbice set a remarkably high standard, and with the calibre of teams locked in for the East Bank and West Demerara leg, fans are in for an unforgettable weekend.”

The high bar for competition was established in New Amsterdam, where Grillmaster Sip N Play All-Stars delivered a masterclass performance to become the tournament’s first official qualifiers for the National Finals. In addition to securing the GY$500,000 top zone prize courtesy of Sawa Investment, Sip N Play reserved their ticket to the grand showcase scheduled for Sunday, October 11, at the Anna Regina National Stadium. There, they will compete for an eye-watering top prize of GY$2 million, with GY$1 million and GY$500,000 allocated for second- and third-place finishers, respectively. This weekend’s winner will

earn the right to join Sip N Play in that national finale, with substantial cash incentives also on the line for regional high performers. The East Bank/West Demerara zone runners-up will pocket GY$200,000, funded by businessman Mohamad Shairaz Roshandin, while losing semifinalists will receive GY$50,000 each, courtesy of Camile’s Academy. Furthermore, every losing quarter-finalist will receive GY$25,000 through the support of Scoop Ride Inc. The stage is set for intense competition, with defending zone champions Eccles AllStars and Mahdia Movements Family drawn into a demanding

line-up, alongside established heavyweights like Village Rams, Airport SVC, and promising new contenders. The action commences on Saturday, August 15, across four venues with free admission to the public. Farm Ground opens at 10:00h with Soesdyke XI facing Laluni Sports Club, followed by The Elite Conquerors against Eccles All-Stars. At Goed Fortuin Ground, Village Rams clash with Brave Heart before Team Eastsyde take on Vintage All Stars. Meten-Meer-Zorg Ground is to host Knight Riders against Young Steppaz, alongside Young Guns versus Airport SVC, while Uitvlugt Ground will see Hyde Park battle Trendsetter before Zeelugt Sports Club face Mahdia (Movements Family). The winners of each venue will advance to the afternoon quarter-finals to secure a spot in Sunday’s final four. All eyes will then turn to Meten-Meer-Zorg Ground on Sunday, August 16, where the semi-finals will take place at 10:00h and 12:00h , culminating in the regional final at 15:00h to crown the Zone Champions. Following the crowning of the East Bank and West Demerara champions, the T10 caravan will head to the Essequibo Zone from August 22–23, concluding with the zone finals on Sunday, August 23, at the Anna Regina National Stadium.

GFF strengthens development of young referees CLASSIFIED ADS VACANCY

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Dainty’s Academy triumphed in the U15 division

he Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA)’s Under-13 team and Dainty’s Academy Under-15 team were, on Saturday last, recognised for their outstanding performances in the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF)/ Upper Demerara Football Association’s (UDFA) Youth Ensemble programme, which saw the youngsters embroiled in weeks of avid age- group competition. The successful teams were presented with their accolades at the Bayrock National Stadium on the Wismar shore in the mining town of Linden. The two competitions kicked off simultaneously earlier this year on May 16, and concluded on July 25. A two-round format was used for the two tournaments, and matches were played at two venues, the Bayrock National Stadium and New Silvercity Secondary School ground. In both competitions, there were four teams which participated, namely, YMCA, Net Rockers Football Club

(FC), Fearless FC, and Dainty’s Academy. Over 150 players participated in both age categories with notable team and individual efforts. YMCA came out as winners of the U13 category with 15 points, and Net Rockers FC were runners-up with eight points. Dainty’s Academy triumphed in the U15 category with 12 points, while YMCA finished as runners-up with 11 points. For the Under 13 competition, YMCA’s John Pollard was named the Most Valuable Player, with club mate Eli Allicock as the Best Goalkeeper, while in the U15 competition, the Most Valuable Player was Renaldo Sampson of Dainty’s Academy, with Fearless FC’s Anaida Orgista as the Best Goalkeeper. The top two teams in each category will now advance to the GFF Ensemble National Playoffs of these two tournaments, which start on Sunday at the GFF’s National Training Centre (NTC) in Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

The programme brought together emerging referees from across Guyana for physical, technical and classroom training

he Guyana Football Federation (GFF) continued its efforts to develop the country’s next generation of match officials with a national referee training session last Saturday, August 8. The programme brought together emerging referees from across Guyana for physical, technical, and classroom training aimed at improving their knowledge and application of the Laws of the Game. Organised by the GFF Refereeing Department, the session also allowed young officials to share experiences and build greater confidence and consistency in their decision-making. Several participants had officiated during the regional stages of the GFF Youth Ensemble Programme. Their inclusion helped to connect the practical experience

gained during competitive matches with further technical education. Training began at 06:00h with an on-field session, conducted by instructors Colin Bowry and Anthony Adams. The practical exercises focused on physical preparation and the correct application of refereeing principles during match situations. The classroom segment included a video analysis assessment using randomly selected football scenarios from the FIFA Referee Education & Development (FIFA RED) platform. The young officials were required to interpret the incidents, make decisions, and explain how the Laws of the Game should be applied. Discussions also covered challenges, offside decisions and other match situations, with instructors placing emphasis

on improving consistency and confidence. The Refereeing Department also received feedback from the participants, particularly those who worked during the Youth Ensemble competition. Their comments provided useful information about their experiences and development in competitive matches. The session formed part of the GFF’s wider commitment to developing referees alongside players and coaches while creating a clear pathway for talented officials. Through continued education, practical experience and exposure to competitions, the federation hopes to prepare more Guyanese referees to advance through the national, Caribbean, Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF), and FIFA levels.

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GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GAW riding positive momentum into 2026 CPL season opener

oming off a high, defending their championship in the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL), the Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) are rearing and ready to go in the 2026 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL). GAW will open their account tonight, battling hosts Jamaica Kingsmen at Sabina Park in Kingston. Though their training sessions at home were minimal, owing to their participation in the GSL, Coach Ryan Hercules shared some of the aspects they focused on. “As you mentioned, a fast turnover – we had about two days’ rest, and we started training on Tuesday and Wednesday.” Hercules shared, “Basically, having some of the senior guys who played in the GSL giving them a bit of time off to relax a bit, and then more work with the junior players who’ve been selected, like Van Lange, Dindyal, Nandu, and these guys.” “So, we had basic net sessions where we focused more

GAW Coach Ryan Hercules

emphasis on the role they would be playing in the team when we get to the beginning of the CPL.” GAW will bring much of their GSL Championship-winning core to the CPL, a factor that has been described as a benefit for the team. He explained, “It’s a good thing because having that same team, we already have that camaraderie, that culture with these guys. You would’ve noticed our overseas-based players remain the same with just one

or two changes, but having these local guys as well who play cricket, Hetty and Hope, it makes it a bit easier for us because we know what they can do; we don’t have to go into games secondguessing their ability, even if they have their rough patches, we know what they’re capable of.” “So, yeah, it’s a good thing for the Amazon Warriors, and it’s a good transformation from GSL to CPL, coming at the back end of a victory as well. Guys’ confidence are pretty much high,” the Coach

Abrams Zuil’s Roberts, Fredericks confident ahead of decisive battle

Ravid Fredericks has enjoyed back-to-back unbeaten scores in the playoffs thus far

ight fours and nine sixes came off the bat of Ravid Fredericks as he led his team, Abram Zuil Secondary, past a target of 127 in just seven overs. Fredericks’ masterclass saw him accumulating an unbeaten 90 in 30 balls, supported by Captain Otis Roberts’ unbeaten 15 to get to 130-2. Earlier, Queen’s College were sent in to bat and posted 126-6 in their 20 overs, on the back of a run-a-ball 45 from Emilio Singh. In the aftermath of the decisive match, Captain Roberts discussed their decision at the toss and how his team performed. “Going into this game we were pretty confident,” Roberts told this publication. “We had a lot of ups and downs in the field, but we backed ourselves and come out victorious.” “We wanted to bat first, but looking at the pitch, the pitch looked a little damp. After we spin the toss, we realise it was a bad call, but we realise we

and the winner between that match will top the group.” Meanwhile, Fredericks talked about his mindset prior to his unbeaten score. “It was a bit easy; the bowlers weren’t finding their lengths,” the batting allrounder shared. Fredericks went on to add, “It was a positive mindset. Going out there, Sir talked to me; we had to come out positive.” One thing both players have in common is their confidence heading into today’s battle with the Essequibo Islands.

Abram Zuil Captain Otis Roberts in action

had to live with it, and we had to back ourselves,” the Abram Zuil Captain divulged. As their third and final match in the group stage looms, a blockbuster clash with Essequibo Islands for the top spot in the group, Roberts touched on the importance of their win on Tuesday. He explained, “We knew we needed a big win today because our next match is against Essequibo Islands,

Roberts shared, “We’re pretty confident, but we just don’t want to be overconfident because cricket is a game that plays on the day.” On the other hand, Fredericks told this publication, “I’m very confident, and hopefully we come out victorious.” That game is scheduled for 10:00h at the Pomona Ground on the Essequibo Coast.

GAW will open their CPL 2026 campaign today

added. However, the team misses out on one of their spin-bowling stalwarts, which Hercules believes will not hurt the side. “I wouldn’t say affecting; we’re pretty much happy for anyone’s success who has been with us,” Hercules said of Gudakesh Motie’s move to the Barbados Tridents after this year’s draft, “Obviously, we have Permaul, and we have Khary Pierre as well, two very good leftarm spinners who can be very vital for us in the side as well.” He admitted, “This is the way how franchise cricket works out; you wouldn’t have all these guys all the time. The cricket will continue, the cricket will play, obviously we will make do with what we have.” Quizzed on how difficult

it would be to plan for the Kingsmen’s new franchise, the Coach maintained that familiarity and analytics will help. “Not much difference. If you look at the setup of that team, its players who would’ve been playing CPL and the way how cricket is now, we have data analysts that get things done for you. So, like I said, we know majority of the guys; we’ve already started preparation. It’s just basically going out there and for our players to execute.” Though the Amazon Warriors were unable to get over the line in the 2024 and 2025 finals, after lifting their first CPL championship in 2023, Hercules notes that he will always head into the season confidently. “I’ll always be 100 per cent. For me, there’s no room to be

50/50 because the cricket is such a short turnover; you play here, and then tomorrow you’re on the plane to somewhere else. You need to be recovering very fast; you need to reflect very quick to see how we can make it happen,” Hercules said. The experienced Coach added, “Unfortunately, yes, the past two years into the finals didn’t make it happen. Definitely we’ll already start looking back on things we think we can change if we’re in that position ever again. So, it’s up to the boys to just go out there, and if we get there, when we do get there, to ensure we do the right thing, and let’s make the fans happy.” The clash between the Amazon Warriors and Kingsmen will bowl off at 20:00h, local time, this evening.

7-member Guyana junior team heads to CAREBACO Championships

seven-member Guyanese junior badminton team is set to compete against some of the Caribbean’s leading young players at the 2026 Caribbean Regional Badminton Confederation (CAREBACO) Junior Individual Championships in Kingston, Jamaica. The Junior and Senior Individual Championships will be held from August 14 to 18, as part of the wider CAREBACO/Smash Jamaica Badminton programme, which runs from August 12 to 18. Anjaynesa Godette and Joel Rambiriche will represent Guyana in the Under-13 category, while Ruel Rambiriche will compete at the Under-17 level. The Under-19 representatives are Nikolas Pollard, Christopher Jordan, Percival Chester, and Chioke Nurse. National player Priyanna Ramdhani will serve as Coach, while Sonia Bachir has been appointed team Manager. The tournament will provide Guyana’s developing players with another opportunity to test their abilities against strong regional opponents while gaining valuable international experience. Guyana will enter the championships with a mixture of returning competitors and emerging talent. Joel Rambiriche, Ruel Rambiriche and Jordan have previous experience at the event. At the 2025 championships in Bridgetown, Barbados, the

The CAREBACO-bound athletes L-R: Christopher Jordan, Chioke Nurse, Ruel Rambiriche, Anjaneysa Godette, Nicholas Pollard, Percival Chester, and Joel Rambiriche

Guyanese contingent earned four bronze medals. Joel secured medals in the Boys’ Under-11 Singles and Doubles, while Mishka Beharry won bronze in the Under-19 Mixed Doubles. Joel has since moved into the Under-13 category and will return to the regional stage alongside his brother Ruel. Jordan will also be making another appearance after competing at the 2025 edition. The team’s preparations have been supported by Indian Coach Kartikey Gund, who is in Guyana under the Guyana Badminton Association (GBA)’s six-month Coaching and development programme.

Gund has been working with national players and affiliated clubs on technical and tactical development. His assignment also involves mentoring local Coaches and identifying promising players for the association’s High Performance and Development Programme. The GBA said its objective extends beyond winning medals, with the tournament viewed as an important step in developing the country’s next generation of badminton players. The association also expressed appreciation to the stakeholders and supporters who continue to contribute to the sport’s development.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026

Sport is no longer our game, it’s our business

Republic Bank CPL….

Fletcher, Netravalkar, Holder upstage Kings at home

Saurabh Natravalkar set up the Patriots with two early wickets

Kamil Pooran and Jewel Andrew enjoyed an 80+ run partnership

he St Kitts and Nevis Patriots trumped the St Lucia Kings at home on Wednesday night, to bring up their first win in the 2026 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2026. The Kings won the toss at the Daren Sammy Cricket Stadium and opted to bat first. Half-centuries off the bat of Kamil Pooran and Jewel Andrew, in Pooran’s second T20 game, got the Kings past a rocky start, triggered by Saurabh Netravalkar and the new ball. Netravalkar dismissed both Andries Gous and Ackeem Auguste to leave the Kings in a spot of bother at 12-2 by the third over. However, the repair job between Andrew and Pooran was magnificent; the pair combining for an 82-run partnership off just 51 balls. Pooran smashed seven fours and three sixes in his 54 off 30 balls, striking at 180 to ignite the once quieted St Lucian crowd. When all of Jason Holder’s bowling options failed to rattle the part-

nership, it was a throw from Wanindu Hasaranga, gathering a single on the bound-

ary that found Pooran metres short of his crease. Andrew kept the mo-

Kamil Pooran celebrates his half-century

mentum going, adding a few lofty maximums to his total to get to his half century. The 19-year-old prodigy hit 58 from 42 balls, punctuated by two fours and four sixes. Andrew got too inventive, though, looking to play the scoop shot, but instead having his stumps disturbed by Holder. Charith Asalanka pitched in with 14 off 11 balls, but no other double digits were on the cards as the St Lucians experienced a meltdown in the death overs, with a few odd runs coming from the tail. As such, the hosts could only manage 155-8 in their 20 overs, after appearing as though they would surpass 180. Netravalkar was the pick of the Patriots’ bowlers, claiming 3-32 from four overs while Holder snared 3-20 from four. Johnson Charles got the Patriots chase off to a rollicking start with one four and two sixes in his brisk 16. However, Matthew Forde soon had his man, shattering the stumps. The lows came as quickly as the highs for Forde, as Kyle Mayers’ introduction to the game saw the Barbadian bowler being punished.

Mayers smashed 27 runs off the fourth over, served up by Forde to propel the Patriots run rate with rain being a looming concern. The heavens eventually opened but not before Maheesh Theekshana struck, removing the ominous Mayers for 32 off 16 balls.

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The brief rain delay seemed to benefit the hosts as the Patriots struggled to score immediately after the resumption, so much so that they could only produce 20 runs in the five overs after the break. Kevin Wickham looked to up the ante, but eventually hit one too many, going back to the dugout for 19 off 20. The same was the case for Captain Holder, who departed for 10 from nine not too long after. At the other end of the crease, Andre Fletcher held on, anchoring the innings. Though the Kings were able to chip away at the Patriots’ batters – having Dasun Shanaka removed with a brilliant catch on the boundary from Forde – it was not enough, as their asking score shrank the longer Fletcher held on. Alongside Hasaranga, Fletcher saw the contest to the end as the Patriots crossed the line, with 14 balls and five wickets to spare. The Republic Bank CPL will continue today with action at Sabina Park in Jamaica, where the Guyana Amazon Warriors will open their account against hosts, Jamaica Kingsmen.

SCOREBOARD

St Lucia Kings (20 ovs maximum) Andries Gous † c McCoy b Netravalkar 4 Kamil Pooran run out (Hasaranga) 54 Ackeem Auguste c †Fletcher b Netravalkar 0 Jewel Andrew b Holder 58 Charith Asalanka c Hasaranga b Holder 14 Matthew Forde c Holder b Netravalkar 2 Roston Chase (c) not out 7 Shadley van Schalkwyk c Mayers b Holder 1 McKenny Clarke c †Fletcher b McCoy 1 Joshua Bishop not out 9 Extras (lb 1, w 4) 5 Total 20 Ov (RR: 7.75) 155/8 Did not bat: Maheesh Theekshana Fall of wickets: 1-4 (Andries Gous, 0.6 ov), 2-12 (Ackeem Auguste, 2.3 ov), 3-94 (Kamil Pooran, 10.6 ov), 4-133 (Charith Asalanka, 15.1 ov), 5-134 (Jewel Andrew, 15.5 ov), 6-138 (Matthew Forde, 16.5 ov), 7-140 (Shadley van Schalkwyk, 17.3 ov), 8-141 (McKenny Clarke, 18.1 ov) Bowling Saurabh Netravalkar Jason Holder Wanindu Hasaranga

O-M-R-W 4-1-32-3 4-0-20-3 4-0-31-0

Obed McCoy Waqar Salamkheil Kyle Mayers

4-0-34-1 2-0-21-0 2-0-16-0

St Kitts and Nevis Patriots (T: 156 runs from 20 ovs) Andre Fletcher †not out 47 Johnson Charles b Forde 16 Kyle Mayers c Auguste b Theekshana 32 Kevin Wickham c Asalanka b Theekshana 19 Jason Holder (c) c Auguste b Chase 10 Dasun Shanaka c Forde b Bishop 12 Wanindu Hasaranga not out 10 Extras (w 10) 10 Total 17.4 Ov (RR: 8.83) 156/5 Yet to bat: Navin Bidaisee, Saurabh Netravalkar, Obed McCoy, Waqar Salamkheil Fall of wickets: 1-18 (Johnson Charles, 1.3 ov), 2-52 (Kyle Mayers, 4.2 ov), 3-97 (Kevin Wickham, 10.4 ov), 4-121 (Jason Holder, 13.2 ov), 5-137 (Dasun Shanaka, 15.4 ov) Bowling Shadley van Schalkwyk Matthew Forde Maheesh Theekshana Joshua Bishop Roston Chase

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