The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, August 14 –03:55h–05:25h and Friday, August 15 – 20:55h–22:25h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, August 14 –07:40h–09:10h and Friday, August 15 – 08:30h–10:00h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Thundery showers are expected during the day and cloudy skies with sporadic showers are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 22 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.
Winds: North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 0.89 metre and 1.78 metres.
High Tide: 07:57h and 20:15h reaching maximum heights of 2.62 metres and 2.63 metres.
Low Tide: 13:49h reaching a minimum height of 0.65 metre.
Guyana working with Indonesia to train locals in crab-cage farming – Pres Ali
…says wharf facilities, farmers' landings for riverine communities in Reg 1
resident Dr Irfaan Ali on Wednesday disclosed that Government was working with experts in Indonesia to train Guyanese to do crab-cage farming so that they tap into the lucrative market locally.
The Head of State made this announcement at the commissioning of the new $434.5 million Waramuri Secondary School in Region One (Barima-Waini).
He explained that crab meat was high value, noting that the various world-class hotels being built in the country would have to import this to make well-known dishes like crab cakes. However, if Guyana could produce enough crab meat, the President noted, then it could be supplied to not just hotels but supermarkets. But this requires expanded production and this is where the Indonesian experts will come in.
“We’re already talking with a team from Indonesia to come here and work with our farmers to do cage crab farming. So, we don’t need to wait on the season alone. We can do it year-round [to] get the crab, take it to the processing facility so you get higher prices and we create more opportunities for the local economy,” President Ali stated.
This initiative is one of two projects that the Guyanese Leader proposed to roll out for four communities in Region One – Waramuri, Manawarin, Haimarakabra, and Para.
The second initiative will see Government working with the more than 600 households in these indigenous communities to empower them with financial and technical support to expand cassava production and build out a cassava mill facility so that they can get more value from their produce.
“So, we’ll invest with you in the tools, the equipment and the money to expand your production… We will build the facility to process it, get the cassareep and flour out of it. But more importantly, we don’t want you to go and sell it, we will get the Guyana Marketing Corporation to
come to that facility, take your product, pay you at a stable market price and take it to the market,” the President informed residents.
According to Ali, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government is not just about giving out cash grants to citizens, which it has done and will continue to do, but it is committed to creating economic opportunities to empower every Guyanese.
“The future that we have before us is an exciting one,” the Head of State posited.
Waterfront development
This is reflected in the plans that the Ali-led Administration has for these four communities, which he detailed during Wednesday’s address. Among the announcements the president made was for waterfront developments for every riverine community.
“We have issued an instruction that this year and in the next budget, we will be building farmers’ landing and wharf facility at every single one of the communities in the river,” he disclosed.
This was in response to complaints from Waramuri residents, who had requested a proper wharf facility and raised concerns about the dam and roads. For the latter, the Head of State assured residents that instructions were also given for the revetment and dam to be designed so that works could commence before the end of this year.
Additionally, he said government will deliver a generator to the community so that they benefit from extended electricity hours.
Similarly, residents of Para will benefit from extended electricity as well as
water, and the buildout of a dam. A bus has already been procured, as requested by the community, to transport children to school.
On the other hand, Waramuri, Manawarin and Haimakabara have all asked for boats and engines to transport schoolchildren. The Guyanese Leader revealed that he has already instructed the Regional Chairman, Brentnol Ashley, to have local boatbuilders in the region build the boats for these three communities.
“We are going to give you those boats and the engine. But not only a boat – the boat with shed…for the children of your community. Those are decisions already taken. I hope that in the coming week, they will start construction of those boats,” Ali stated.
The construction of those boats will take approximately eight weeks.
Meanwhile, the President added that Haimarakabra would also get roads, a water facility and money has already been set aside to have transmission lines designed so that works can start in the coming weeks to power the community. Another request the community made was for a medic. But the Head of State said that he wanted to have locals trained so that they could serve their community. As such, he asked that all young persons from Haimarakabra with the qualifications sign up for the nursing programme for the September intake.
“We will take them, we will train them, we’ll house them, we’ll give them a stipend and we’ll guarantee them a job as a nurse or a patient care assistant after,” the President declared.
President Dr Irfaan Ali and Education Minister Priya Manickchand looking at a crab dish prepared by students of Waramuri in Region One
The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) occupies a central role in national safety, tasked with safeguarding lives, property, and communities from fire, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen crises. So far in 2025 alone, the GFS has reported that it has responded to over 4000 emergency calls, a figure that underscores the immense responsibility placed on its personnel.
Among these interventions, GFS medical teams have already delivered five new-borns, highlighting the critical role the service plays not only in fire suppression but also in providing essential medical support. These numbers reflect not only the dedication and skill of the firefighters and medical responders but also the constant demands placed upon a service that operates on speed, precision, and readiness.
Despite these achievements, the service faces a growing and insidious threat: prank calls to the emergency line, 912. Chief Fire Officer Gregory Wickham has raised serious concerns about the increase in these false reports, noting that they place undue strain on both resources and personnel. Each unwarranted dispatch consumes manpower, fuel, and equipment that could be deployed to genuine emergencies, potentially putting citizens in danger. Such behaviour demonstrates a reckless disregard for public safety and undermines the very purpose of an emergency service designed to respond to real-life crises.
Firefighting is inherently high-risk. Every fire tender arrives on scene with water, typically 450 gallons per vehicle, and personnel trained to confront unpredictable and often hazardous situations. Teams often need to supplement their supplies from mains, canals, or hydrants, a process that requires both skill and careful coordination. From five fire stations nationwide, the service now operates 22, with six additional stations under construction. Recent investments of $9 billion demonstrate the commitment to ensuring faster response times and improved readiness across both urban and rural areas. However, infrastructure and equipment alone cannot mitigate the risks created by frivolous or malicious calls to emergency services.
Prank calls are far more than a minor annoyance; they are a direct threat to public safety. Each false call can result in delayed responses to genuine emergencies. A house genuinely ablaze, a medical crisis requiring immediate intervention, or a citizen in distress may face grave consequences while resources are misdirected. The ethical and civic implications are clear: misuse of emergency services is a blatant act of irresponsibility. It demonstrates a disregard not only for the lives of those directly affected but also for the professionals who dedicate themselves to protecting the nation. Firefighters place their lives on the line with every call, and misuse of the system magnifies the dangers they face while reducing the effectiveness of their critical work.
Citizens must believe that when they dial 912, trained professionals will arrive promptly, equipped to address the crisis. When prank calls disrupt this trust, the effectiveness of the entire system is compromised. Infrastructure, modern equipment, and expanded coverage are meaningless if the service is diverted from genuine emergencies. Civic responsibility, therefore, is as essential as any investment in stations, vehicles, or technology. Respecting emergency services is a shared obligation; failure to do so carries consequences that can be fatal.
The public must recognise that emergency services function optimally when resources are used responsibly. Prank calls are reckless acts that endanger lives, waste taxpayer money, and diminish the effectiveness of a professional and essential service.
It is imperative that the nation confronts this issue with urgency. Every frivolous call carries real consequences. Citizens must understand that public safety is a shared responsibility and that respect for emergency services is a civic duty. The men and women of the Guyana Fire Service are committed to serving the public, often placing themselves in harm’s way to ensure the safety of others. In return, society must safeguard the integrity of the system by refraining from acts of irresponsibility that compromise its effectiveness.
The rise of prank calls and its impact on public safety cannot be taken lightly. Infrastructure, investment, and professionalism can only go so far; the human factor, the respect and accountability of citizens, is equally critical. When emergencies occur, there can be no margin for error. The Guyana Fire Service must be allowed to operate without obstruction, ensuring that when citizens are in genuine need, help arrives immediately. The responsibility rests with all members of society to treat the emergency line with the seriousness it demands, to uphold civic responsibility, and to recognise that reckless behaviour is a danger to everyone.
Why prison programmes are important
By DeBBie JacoB
Aformer student from Port of Spain Prison messaged to say he had heard me talking on the radio last week about the prisons’ debate teams I once organised with prison programmes.
“Whenever you laughed, I could see you in class,” he said.
It’s difficult to explain how much education and other programmes mean to many inmates in prison. It’s no exaggeration to say it is a lifeline. In prison, learning to recognise and express emotions and structure an argument in a debate or write an argumentative essay are meaningful beyond measure. These are confidence-building skills never before achieved.
In my early days working in Port of Spain Prison, programmes thrived. A lifer made cash pans hidden in the roofs of beautiful handmade houses. Inmates shaped concrete flowerpots and carved flowers from soap. Supt Wilbert Lovell, still one of my favourite superintendents to work under, encouraged programmes, apprenticeships, skill-based activities and academic classes. He was a hands-on, caring superintendent who lifted everyone’s spirits in that dark, dismal prison.
I organised certified bar-
bering, decorative tiling and PVC furniture-making classes. At the graduation ceremony for certified barbering, students stood and performed Jah Cure’s Prison Walls. “I swear, I can be a better man,” they sang. Young men walked out of prison with skills for life. None of them went back into prison. After their first PVC furniture-making class, students said, “Miss, poor people can have pretty furniture too.”
Running prison programmes can be a roller-coaster ride with exhilarating highs and depressing lows. Whenever a crisis occurs, programmes get put on hold. Public opinion shifts, and momentum is lost. In programmes, we ride out those dips with commissioners who don’t support programmes and wait impatiently to resume work with commissioners who favour programmes. In between, we lose momentum and think about all the young men who could have been saved in prison programmes. Instead of soaring to new heights, I always feel like I’m in a rebuilding process. But I never give up hope.
Prisons are a microcosm of TT society with impulsive men who took the wrong path. The redeemable ones exist along with innocent and incorrigible men who will never benefit from pro-
grammes. The worst of the lot disrupt programmes, but they can’t derail them. It is difficult to be proactive in an environment where everyone is so reactive.
The main reasons for crime in this country are poverty and irrelevant education. The men I taught who learnt trades and ways to articulate their feelings thrived outside of prison – if they managed to stay alive. Many of them do agriculture.
For those who feel that inmates don’t deserve the programmes they get in prison, I can only say that everyone in my Port of Spain Prison CXC English class won their cases or had them thrown out of court. What does that say about policing?
My goal has always been to send young men back into the “free world” with confidence and relevant skills. My students learn to love reading. They will be better fathers than their own fathers.
On that radio programme where a prison officer and I talked about the debate teams, the prison officer said none of the hundred-plus men and women who participated in those debates ended up in prison. I attribute that astounding statistic to young men learning ways to articulate their feelings.
I often wonder how much
of the crime we now face stems from the stagnant state of prisons during the Covid-19 pandemic when programmes completely shut down. Thankfully, we now have acting Prison Commissioner Carlos Corraspe, who supports programmes. (Corraspe has accrued more than 200 days’ vacation leave and was sent on leave on August 7.)
Unless the Government puts mechanisms in place to maintain prison programmes that have practical and meaningful results, we will be riding that unsteady roller coaster forever. Programmes should be evaluated for their effectiveness and not just stopped for personal reasons by a commissioner passing through the revolving door to sit in the commissioner’s seat.
It always feels like prisons are run by personalities rather than policy. If that were not true, volunteers and NGOs would have a smoother ride. We wouldn’t live in fear of the next commissioner’s personality or constantly wonder when next we will be marginalised.
We can’t judge prisons by the worst headlines. Prison is the last chance we have to change the course of many young men’s lives. It’s not just a place to lock people up and throw away the key.
(T&T Newsday)
The Cliff Bookshop, built into a 100-year-old cliff face, attracts tourists to its location on the edge of a sinkhole in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China (Photograph: Long Tao/VCG/Getty Images)
Selective outrage and erosion of integrity
Dear Editor,
In a recent article (August 10, 2025), Dr. Goolsarran alleges that Guyana Power and Light’s (GPL) planned award of a consultancy to a Dominican Republic firm violates the Procurement Act. Yet, he fails to cite a single section of the Act that was allegedly breached.
The Procurement Act (Cap. 73:05) explicitly permits single-source procurement under specific conditions. Section 49 states:
“The procuring entity may engage in single source procurement where the services to be procured require that a particular consultant be selected due to the consultant’s unique qualifications or where it is necessary to continue a project with the same consultant.”
GPL lawfully invoked this provision.
Moreover, the National Procurement and Tender
Administration Board’s (NPTAB) recommendation is not binding. Section 40 of the Procurement Act establishes the authority upon which a procuring entity may reject all tenders. Section 40(1) states:
“Subject to approval by the National Board, if so specified in the solicitation documents, the appropriate board may reject all tenders at any time prior to the acceptance of a tender. The appropriate board shall upon request, communicate to any supplier or contractor that submitted a tender the grounds for its rejection of all tenders, but is not required to justify those grounds.”
In a subsequent response (Stabroek News, August 13, 2025), Method4 claims that its website lists projects as evidence of its experience. But that is marketing—not substantiation. The Request for Proposal
(RFP) requires documentary evidence of past contracts of similar size, scope, and complexity. Without such documentation, any claim of “experience” collapses. GPL does not only reserve the right to reject bids that fail to meet these minimum thresholds—it is obligated to do so, especially for a project of this nature.
Dr. Goolsarran’s casual assertion that there was “evidence” of Method4’s or other bidders having the requisite experience is deeply troubling. How could he make such a claim without reviewing the actual bid submissions and technical evaluation reports?
Evidence is not a matter of assumption—it is a matter of record. The evaluation process requires bidders to submit documentary proof of past contracts demonstrating similar size, scope, and complexity—not just a
Endorsing re-election of PPP
Dear Editor,
As we get closer to election day, everyone needs to exercise their voting rights. Having considered all the factors, I have to give my endorsement to President Ali and the PPP as we vote on September 1. As a civil society advocate, my approach has been to give criticism where criticism is due and praise where praise is due. I differ with the PPP in matters of the oil contract, failure to fix the problem of NIS contributions being inaccurate, and the freedom of information issue. In considering the 6 parties vying for office, I have readily ruled out the PNC (APNU) and the AFC because they are parties which have rigged and support rigging. That’s a non-starter for me. We should not support parties which have rigging etched in their DNA. The three new, “baby”, fly-by-night parties – parties which include leaders who supported and defended the PNC’s rigging in 2020 – are too new and inexperienced to inspire any confidence or trust that they can run a complex emerging new oil economy at a time when we face a border problem with the Venezuelan dictatorship. We can’t consider novices for the job of continuing the enormous reform and development trajectory on which we have embarked.
These opposition parties do not have deep ideas for reform and restructuring of the society. Their hurried manifestos merely say they will improve on
the PPP’s template for continued development, such as higher and better cash grants. Nothing about a structured, systems approach to income redistribution.
To be honest and fair, warts and all, and despite its failings or our disagreements about style and approaches, the President Ali Administration has been the most successful Government in Guyana’s history. They have accomplished the most of any Government in a political term. The question we must ask is, “Are Guyanese better off now than in 2020?” and the answer is a resounding yes. Surely, we are not where we need to be, but we are not what we used to be.” The glass is half full, not half empty. When the PPP took over in 2020, everything needed fixing. We must give the Government credit for running as fast as it could to fix the myriad of problems to be fixed. They are poised to run as fast in the new term, as voters recognise their numerous accomplishments and will give them five more years to transform the country. As someone said, we must give them 5 more years to finish off what they started, while holding them accountable and offering critiques and support as needed. The PPP Government has built an equal opportunity culture for all. Their accomplishments include having the most house lots distributed (even the USA does not give out free lots); the most free access to higher edu -
list of projects on a website. Method4’s public statements have not addressed whether they satisfied this requirement. Moreover, bidders must meet the minimum technical thresholds set out in the RFP, which form part of the evaluation process. Is Dr. Goolsarran now an engineer as well as an auditor underpinning such determinations without access to the documentation? Or is he relying on speculation and theatrics rather than facts?
It is worth reminding that while Dr. Goolsarran grandstands with his incredibly unsubstantiated assertion of a procurement violation—he himself was entangled in a controversial procurement debacle under the APNU+AFC government.
There are two fundamental professional ethical violations that Dr. Goolsarran has implicitly admitted to:
1. Misuse of the Term “Forensic Audit”:
He acknowledged that the term “forensic audits” was inappropriate, given the absence of allegations of fraud or embezzlement. Despite this, he proceeded with the labeling after being directed not to challenge the public narrative. His compliance therewith—evident in the publicly available audit reports under his hand, all of which found no evidence of fraud—raises serious concerns about his ethical conduct and professional integrity therefor.
2. Legitimization of a False Political Narrative:
the public accounts. This authority rests exclusively with the Auditor General pursuant to Article 224 of the Constitution and the Audit Act. Article 224(5) of the Constitution further states:
“The Public Accounts Committee may exercise general supervision over the functioning of the office of the Auditor General in accordance with the rules, policies and procedures manual for the functioning of the Auditor General as prepared by the Auditor General and approved by the Public Accounts Committee.”
cation than all of Caricom and most of the world; forgiveness of student loans (which even the USA does not do); the most roads, bridges, water treatment plants, pump houses, drainage and irrigation canals maintained, markets upgraded, highest rice production, highest coconut production, the most hospitals and clinics built and health services expanded, etc. We have had the most infrastructural development, which has improved our quality of life, buttressed by ongoing salary increases, modest increases to Old Age Pensions and Public Assistance (which need to be doubled in the new term), the most cash grants to all and special cash grants to students. The PPP’s scorecard is good. So given the six choices, overwhelmingly the PPP stands tall above the rest!
Yours sincerely, Dr Jerry Jailall
By his own publicly documented admission, under the previous APNU+AFC administration, he was the beneficiary of highly questionable procurement practices in relation to a number of “forensic audits” he was contracted to perform. In his Stabroek News column dated July 29, 2024, he admitted:
“In May 2015, I returned to Guyana, having been attached to the Afghanistan National Audit Office in Kabul as an International Audit Expert. I met briefly with the then Minister of Finance, Mr. Winston Jordan, who indicated to me that the new Administration had decided to conduct forensic audits of State institutions and that, given my experience and training, he would like me to be involved…Upon examination of the terms of reference for the audits, I told the Minister that the use of the term ‘forensic’ might not be appropriate since there were no allegations of fraud or mismanagement…While he agreed with me, the Minister stated that the Government had already used the term in its various public statements.”
By labeling these audits as “forensic,” he lent credibility to the insinuation that the previous PPP/C administration was involved in financial misconduct. This is despite the absence of any such findings in his own audit reports. His actions contributed to the propagation of a politically motivated narrative, violating the ethical standards governing the auditing profession. As a former Auditor General, his role should have been to uphold objectivity and independence. Instead, his acquiescence undermines the credibility of the audits and casts doubt on his professional judgment.
Furthermore, the Minister of Finance has no authority to initiate any form of external audits on
Accordingly, to properly initiate an audit review or forensic audit, the Finance Minister has no such legal authority. That authority rests with either (a) the Public Accounts Committee or (b) the Auditor General’s office. Accountability should be rooted in consistency, legality, and ethical standards. It is important to uphold these principles not only in critique but also in practice. Integrity is best demonstrated through adherence to the law and professional norms—not through selective interpretation or public posturing. One cannot credibly advocate for accountability while overlooking past procedural missteps. True integrity requires a balanced and lawful approach, not selective outrage.
Respectfully,
Joel Bhagwandin
Surface Area
What is Surface Area?
Surface area is how much space covers the outside of a 3D object.
Imagine wrapping a present – the paper has to cover every side. If you added up the area of all those sides , you’d get the surface area
• A cube’s surface area = all 6 square faces added together
• A can’s surface area = the label around it plus the top and bottom circles
Formulas to remember:
1. Cube Surface Area = 6(b2)
2. Cylinder
Surface Area = 2πrh+2πr2 Tips:
• r = radius of the circle
• h = height of the cylinder
• π (pi) is about 3.14
Example 1: A cube
Each side of the cube is 4 cm long
• Surface area of cube = 6(b²)
=6(4x4)
=6(16)
=96 cm²
Total surface area = 96 cm²
Example 2: A cylinder
Height = 10 cm, radius = 3 cm
• Surface area of cylinder = 2πrh + 2πr2
= 2 × 3.14 × 3 × 10 + 2πr2
= 188.4 + 2(3.14x3 2)
= 188.4 + 2(28.26)
=188.4 + 56.52
=244.92cm²
Total surface area = 244.92cm²
Practice
1. A cube has sides of 6 cm. What’s its surface area?
2. A box is 8 cm long, 5 cm wide, and 4 cm high. Find its surface area.
3. A cylinder has height 12 cm and radius 4 cm. Find its surface area.
4. Your dice at home are cubes with sides of 2 cm – how much total surface area do 2 dice have together?
By Kevin young
there—not wanting to go, hoping only you’d said so long to all you know— to the elms who also know what it means to be told you’d die & survive.
In that emptied, electric air some wept. Others asked to help, or for help, began to act as if it was merely static that snagged us aloft. How long did we linger up there, in thunder? Thinking mostly of all I loved, of what I’d never write. Mirror of my mind. Once we kissed the earth again, firetrucks ushered us through the open gates where the five o’clock news asked what I’d seen & the woman I loved, picking me up, talked a blue streak till she heard the between we’d been.
Imagine your parents wake you up one morning to tell you they will take you to do anything you want to do for the whole day – you don’t even have to go to school or do your chores. What would you choose to do and why?
WORD SEARCH
General and Regional Elections 2025
Ballot papers, other sensitive materials being processed – GECOM Commissioner
…as political parties, international observers oversee GECOM preparations
With less than three weeks before Guyana heads to the polls for the 2025 General and Regional Elections, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has begun processing ballot papers and other sensitive materials under the watchful eyes of political parties and members of the European Union Election Observer Mission.
GECOM Commissioner
Sase Gunraj confirmed that the process, which commenced this week, involves the sorting, packing, and verification of ballot papers, Statements of Poll (SOPs), and other critical election documents.
According to Gunraj, these items will be placed into ballot boxes for dispatch to polling stations ahead of election day.
“Elections are less than three weeks away. These materials have to be sorted, they have to be packed, they have to be verified, and all of that has to be put in ballot boxes and be prepared for dispatch to polling stations in advance of the actual polling day,” Gunraj informed.
The meticulous review of ballot papers and SOPs by GECOM stands as a cornerstone of Guyana’s democratic process, ensuring transparency, fairness, and public trust in election out-
comes.
Ballot papers are more than mere pieces of paper; they are the physical embodiment of citizens’ right to choose their leaders. Their design, numbering, and security features guard against duplication, fraud, and tampering. A thorough examination of these papers before, during, and after polling ensures that every vote cast is authentic and accounted for. By scrutinising ballot papers, GECOM upholds the principle that each citizen’s vote carries equal weight, free from irregularities that could undermine the legitimacy of the results.
Equally critical are the
SOPs, the official documents that capture the vote count at each polling station. SOPs form the first official record of how ballots
were cast and tallied at the local level, serving as the basis for compiling regional and national results. Proper review of SOPs ensures that the numbers reported match the ballots counted, closing the door on discrepancies that could erode public confidence. In contentious or closely fought elections, these documents often become the decisive proof in resolving disputes.
Against this backdrop, Gunraj stressed the importance of starting the exercise early, noting that in just nine days, GECOM will conduct voting for joint services members.
Over 400 students to benefit as $434.5M
While unable to provide an exact timeline for the verification process, Gunraj indicated that it is an ongoing, tightly scheduled exercise expected to last several days.
He emphasised that having political party representatives present enhances confidence in the electoral process, as it allows for collective oversight of how sensitive materials are handled.
"You're also aware that in less than ten days – nine days to be exact – we have participant services voting, and as a consequence, preparations have to be made for that as well. And it is the selfsame material that will be utilised for that process,” he added.
Waramuri Secondary
School commissioned in Reg 1
More than 400 students from Waramuri, Haimarakabra, Para, and other nearby villages in Region One (Barima-Waini) are set to benefit from enhanced education delivery at the newly constructed Waramuri Secondary School.
Outfitted with laboratories for science, information technology and home economics, the new $434.5 million Waramuri Secondary School was commissioned on Wednesday by President Irfaan Ali, who said that this institution, along with the community’s primary school, which is earmarked for upgrades, is demonstrative of his Government’s commitment to parity in education investments across Guyana.
“We made a very conscious decision that every single secondary school must have parity in the type of services and the type of value it creates for our child so there is no gap [between the hinterland and the coastland]. Very soon, the Minister of Education will be turning the sod for a number of labs in secondary schools in
Region Nine because we believe that secondary education is not only another tier of education but also that secondary education is about preparing you for the journey of life. It is about that important step that gives you the opportunity to realise your true and full potential,” the Head of State stated.
According to Ali, as a result of the investments by the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government, young people in the hinterland today can study and get training in any profession without having to leave their homes and communities. This, he noted, is because his Administration recognises the importance of investing in education and in a system that caters not just for young children and young people, but for every category of citizens.
“We’re investing in technical education, we’re investing in remedial education, and we’re investing in education to improve your efficiency in your business; that is, we’re investing in women entrepreneurs. We’re investing in fi-
nancial education. We’re investing so that we can have a more efficient population so that we can enjoy the full fruits of your labour.”
“This building is not only a secondary school; it’s the staging ground for the rest of your life. It is the foundation for the rest of your life. It is that door that opens significant opportunities ahead of you, and who created that door – the People’s Progressive Party Civic,” he posited.
Trained teachers
Among those who benefit from training in hinterland communities without having to leave are teachers. According to the Head of State, not only do teachers get online training but also higher pay when they enhance their academic qualifications.
In fact, Education Minister Priya Manickchand disclosed during her remarks at Wednesday’s commissioning ceremony that over the last three and a half years, more than 9000 teachers across Guyana, including from hinterland communi-
ties, were trained.
“That training has allowed us to move hinterland teachers from 43 per cent trained teachers to 86 per cent trained teachers, and we intend for that to be 100 per cent trained teachers before the end of 2027,” the Minister declared.
On the coastland, the figure for trained teachers was previously stagnant in the early 60s but, as of this year, stands at 98 per cent, including those who have already been trained and are currently in training.
Minister Manickchand also reiterated the opportunities that young teachers in Region One have to stay in their villages and do a two-year online training programme at the Cyril Potter College of Education
(CPCE) and afterwards can even benefit from a four-year University of Guyana (UG) degree programme – all free of cost and with increased emoluments.
According to the Education Minister, these investments in teachers will see hinterland children benefitting from a higher quality of education delivery on par with the coastland.
“We wanted to increase access across all levels; in other words, to make sure that every single child goes to a nursery school, a primary school, and a secondary school and then goes on to the University of Guyana for free,” she stated.
In fact, over the last three and a half years, the PPP/C Government has built seven nursery schools and 16
primary schools and has either built, or is in the process of building, six secondary schools across the BarimaWaini region.
With construction to start on another secondary school in the community of Manawarin, the Education Minister noted, “All over in Region One, children will be able to go to a secondary school and get a solid secondary education.”
“When we came into office in 2020, there were 2500 children in Region One…who could not be placed in a secondary school, who had to go to a primary top or had to stay home or go in the back dam… Before the end of 2026, every single child will be able to go to a discrete secondary school close to their homes,” Manickchand stated.
GECOM Commissioner Sase Gunraj
President Dr Irfaan Ali and other officials commissioned the new $434.5M Waramuri Secondary School in Region One on Wednesday
New…
…Guyana politics
Who said there’s nothing new under the sun?? Let’s be honest, Dear Reader, have you ever heard, seen or read about such goings-on as those that have gripped the nation since the video of the Gold Canary spilling his guts was made public? There have been so many indignant reactions from the names the Canary “called” that your Eyewitness could be forgiven for thinking he was transported into a galaxy of cuss-bird fisherwomen!! Lawyers must be having a field day as they gloat about the humongous hours they’re gonna be billing in the defamation suits and countersuits that will be flying fast and furious!!
One important bit (nugget?!) of info dropped was the involvement of Venezuelan military big wigs in the gold smuggling out of Mad Maduroland! When Chavez arbitrarily demarcated a huge swathe of his south-east interior that abuts our border as a “Mining Arc”, he gave the military the responsibility to extract his share of the expected gold rush. It was a “hand wash hand” kinda deal that was expanded by Mad Maduro – who needed the military support even more. He allowed them to work hand in glove with the Sindicatos, who also preyed on the miners!! It’s those same Sindicatos whom Mad Maduro sicced on our GDF patrols on the Cuyuni River. What strengthens the military connection with Venezuelan gold smuggling – to evade US sanctions slapped on their exports – is that all ores from mines are sent to a couple of cyanide pits to separate the gold to a high 90+ per cent level of purity. The pits are controlled by the military.
Another nugget your Eyewitness extracted from the “he seh; she seh” noise was that Sanction Man has been paying off almost everyone in the social media world – and who knows, certainly SOME in the traditional media!! That wasn’t too hard for him to do considering that the Yanks only sanctioned him for evading taxes in the last five years on gold smuggling – and that alone amounted to $10 BILLION!! One influencer who set herself up as a defender of women’s and poor people’s rights admitted she’d been paid off for years – and only recently received US$35,000 to pay legal fees to hold off ICE from deporting her!!
Another was a fella who worked for a fly-by-night TV station who set himself up as a “Nightcrawler” specialising in Police exposés. He was the one who “interviewed” the Gold Canary – but even a cursory look at the video shows it was clearly a hatchet job to get the Yanks to sanction Sanction Man’s biggest competitor!! Must be VERY lonely being the only gold dealer to be sanctioned!!
Misery just loves company, innit? And who’s a more miserable SOB than Sanction Man??!!
…Haiti misery
The woke brigade in Guyana and the Caribbean recently wrote a looong missive in the press bemoaning the Dominican Republic deporting hundreds of thousands of Haitians back to their country. Now as you would know, Dear Reader, your Eyewitness’ heart bleeds for what’s happening in that benighted country. But the answer to Haiti’s troubles is to get rid of the armed gangs that have held Port-au-Prince and its environs – including the International Airport – hostage and are extracting booty more rapaciously than any pirate of old!
But what’s held up the solution is that the woke brigade’s absolutely opposed to any US role in any intervention – while the rest of the world refuses to contribute funds for alternative forces. Right now, US$900M is needed – but only a paltry US$8 million has been committed by the other 190 countries in the UN!! Ain’t that a shame??
While the woke brigade cusses out the US, China –just as rich as the US – gets a free pass!! Go figure!!
…confrontations
We all know by now that President Trump has taken on the world with his tariff impositions. Right now, India and Brazil are in his crosshairs. Will he go into TACO mode – Trump Always Chickens Out – as some expect??
PPP/C’s next term to focus on fiscal discipline, empowerment, 5000 new contractors nationwide – Jagdeo
Vice President (VP) of Guyana and General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), Bharrat Jagdeo, has emphasised the importance of on-the-ground connection with the people and the importance of focusing on fiscal responsibility for sustainability in order to deliver on promises to the people during an interview on the “Starting Point” podcast on Monday.
Jagdeo also spoke about the party’s plans for youth empowerment and growth, and significant wealth creation opportunities during the party’s next term in office. According to Jagdeo, the party is projecting the creation of over 5000 new contractors across the country in the coming term, a move that would significantly boost local businesses and create more opportunities for Guyanese citizens.
“Wealth creation is about expanding procurement opportunities for Guyanese contractors,” Jagdeo said.
“We are committed to providing more opportunities for small contractors, especially in rural regions. In the last term, we saw 700 contractors in Region 10 receive projects worth up to $11 million, and we aim to expand that further.”
Jagdeo emphasised that the PPP/C’s careful approach to economic policies has laid a strong foundation
for sustained growth, with particular attention to creating new opportunities for young people and expanding the contractor base across the country.
Jagdeo reiterated the PPP/C’s commitment to maintaining fiscal prudence, emphasising that the party’s careful management of Guyana’s economy since assuming office in 1992 has been key to the country's stability and progress.
He pointed to the importance of creating a sustainable macroeconomic environment before pursuing large-scale social and economic projects, as opposed to the unrealistic promises being made by many of the opposition political parties, particularly A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).
Jagdeo critiqued the lavish promises currently being
peddled by the APNU and others, such as significantly higher cash grants and pension increases, which he argued were not feasible without creating the necessary wealth to support them.
"You have to create wealth before you distribute wealth," he stated, stressing the importance of responsible fiscal planning.
“We’ve always been careful and deliberate about economic policies. From the very beginning, we had to focus on re-establishing a sustainable macroeconomic environment. Without addressing that issue, there would have been no viable social or economic plan for Guyana.”
On strengthening the party's youth membership in the party’s next term, VP Jagdeo noted that the party has long recognised
the need to provide opportunities for young people.
Asked about the party’s future, Jagdeo noted that the People’s Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO), which currently boasts 15,000 members ranging from 13 to 35 years old, is expected to play a pivotal role in the party's future direction.
He highlighted the party's recent efforts to incorporate younger candidates into the political process, with the purposeful selection of a number of young candidates on the party’s List of Candidates for the upcoming September 1 General and Regional Elections.
Another significant as-
“We have a lot of experienced people who have to stand behind those young people, support them, and lift them up. “I’ve been working across the country since our last Congress to try to build a core of young people,” the VP said. “Our party has always recognised the need to give opportunities to young people. The next term I want to work at strengthening those young people.
pect of the PPP/C's vision for its next term is the creation of wealth through an expanded contractor base. Dr Jagdeo noted that the PPP/C plans to continue providing these opportunities through a system of set rates, ensuring that smaller contractors can access government projects without having to bid at lower levels. Larger contracts will still require a competitive bidding process, but overall, the government’s procurement strategy is aimed at making it easier for small businesses to thrive.
AG gets default judgement in $100M libel case against “Melly Mel”
Attorney General and Legal Affairs
Minister Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, has received a default judgement against Melissa “Melly Mel” AtwellHolder.
Nandlall made the revelation during this week’s edition of the Issues in the News programme on Tuesday.
“I have already obtained a default judgement against her, and I am awaiting a date from the court for the assessment of damages hearing to take place,” he noted. According to a DPI report, the AG asserted that he will continue to push the case forward until its ultimate completion.
“I don’t want people to think that I have dropped the case. I am very much prosecuting this case to the end and will enforce the judgement that I will eventually obtain,” the Minister said.
On November 22, 2024, Nandlall instituted legal proceedings against AtwellHolder for the sum of $100 million over what he described as libellous posts
made on her Facebook page.
“The nine (9) publications made by the Defendant that have been complained about in these proceedings have seriously and irreparably damaged, and are likely to continue to seriously and irreparably damage, the reputation and standing of the Claimant among his Cabinet colleagues, his political peers and indeed all right-thinking members of society in Guyana, the Caribbean and throughout the world,” the
court documents said. At the time, Nandlall had said that he was providing Atwell with a “glorious opportunity” to prove her claims in a court of law.
This week, he said she has since been unable to provide any evidence to corroborate her claims.
“She has been able to produce not a scintilla of evidence implicating me or how I was able to give her all this information that she claimed she received,” he stated.
Army Chief discusses acquisition priorities, advancing Guyana-Colombia relationship
Cly
for a courtesy call. Discussions focused on advancing the Guyana–Colombia relationship, Guyana’s defence acquisition priorities, and addressing shared defence and security challenges. Both parties explored avenues for deeper collaboration to support national and regional security objectives.
The engagement, according to a post on social media by the Guyana Defence Force, reinforced the importance of sustained dialogue in strengthening bilateral and hemispheric defence cooperation.
hief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, recent-
met with the Ambassador of Colombia to Guyana, Graybern Livingston Forbes,
Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, meeting with Ambassador of Colombia to Guyana, Graybern Livingston Forbes
Vice President and PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo
Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC
Melissa "Melly Mel" AtwellHolder
Guyana upholds human rights, Govt acts against abuse – US Report
…cites justice system delays, pre-trial detention hurdles
The United States Department of State released its 2024 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices on Wednesday, noting that while there were no significant changes in the human rights situation in Guyana during the year, the government continued to take credible steps to address abuses.
The report acknowledged that the Guyanese government made efforts to identify and punish officials who committed human rights violations. Notably, there were no reports of coerced abortion or involuntary sterilization by government authorities, reflecting adherence to constitutional protections.
However, the report highlighted that arbitrary arrest and unlawful detention remained concerns, with the report cit -
ing the case of Terrence Sandy, who alleged he was wrongfully arrested by police in June 2023 and detained for over two months. Sandy filed a lawsuit against the government seeking 96 million Guyanese dollars (approximately $446,000), which remained ongoing as of September.
Lengthy pretrial detention continued to be a major issue, primarily driven by judicial delays, staff shortages, and cumbersome legal procedures. Pretrial detainees accounted for 41 per cent of the prison population, and the average length of pretrial detention at Magistrates’ Courts or the High Court was three years, often exceeding the maximum sentence for the alleged crime. According to the report, in response, the government passed the Criminal Law
Newlywed killed
in July, a legislative measure aimed at reducing pretrial detention by replacing in-person hearings with written submissions from the defense and prosecution.
The report stated that Guyana’s constitution prohibits arbitrary arrest and detention, and citizens retain the right to
challenge the lawfulness of their detention in court. While reports of violations persist, the government generally observes these legal requirements.
Overall, the report underscores that Guyana has made measurable efforts to uphold human rights, while highlighting areas requiring continued reform, particularly in judicial ef -
ficiency and detention practices.
It also highlighted that “the government cooperated with the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, the International Organization for Migration, and other humanitarian organizations in providing protection and assistance to migrants and other populations in need of protection.”
According to the report, Guyana’s constitution provided for freedom of expression, including for members of the press and other media, and the government generally respected this right. “Independent news media were active and expressed a wide variety of views. Some members of media reported they faced discrimination and hostile personal verbal attacks in response to public inquiries,” the report stated.
days before assault case
…family alleges intentional killing, driver on the run
ABased on reports received, Alex Persaud of Timehri Base Road, EBD, was standing on the parapet when the lorry allegedly swerved and struck him down. He died at the scene.
Guyana Times understands that the truck driver and the victim were expected to appear in court next Monday in an assault case.
In that matter, the truck driver had reportedly assaulted Persaud’s cousin, which resulted in a heated argument between the driver and Persaud, leading to an altercation.
Both were charged as a result of the fracas.
Now, relatives of the dead man claim that Persaud was intentionally struck down by the driver.
This publication understands that after the accident, he reportedly drove the lorry to Sarah Johanna, EBD, parked it and went into hiding.
The police have since initiated a manhunt for him, as investigations continue.
Procedure (Paper Committal) Bill
22-year-old newlywed was struck down and killed by a speeding lorry at Supply, East Bank Demerara (EBD), on Wednesday.
Dead: Alex Persaud
The
Health workforce strengthened with 1st cohort of 29 Medexes
Amilestone in healthcare has been marked with the training and graduation of the first cohort of 29 Medex, following four years of intensive study.
The graduates are part of a group of 140 clinical and technical professionals who completed the Health Ministry’s Clinical and Technical Training Programme, an initiative aimed at strengthening human resources in the health sector and expanding access to quality care nationwide.
Alongside the 29 Medex, the graduating class includes 34 medical laboratory technicians who underwent one year of
training, 60 pharmacy assistants who trained for nine months, and 15 rehabilitation assistants who
also completed one year of training.
Medex training is crucial for Guyana's health-
care system, particularly in providing primary care, especially in remote and underserved areas. Medexes,
or Medical Extension Officers, are mid-level healthcare professionals trained to provide a wide range of services, including health promotion, disease prevention, and basic medical care. Their training equips them to manage common ailments, identify those requiring referral, and even perform deliveries in some cases.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony on Wednesday, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony urged the new healthcare workers to adhere to national guidelines and embrace the sector’s ongoing transformation. Anthony revealed that Guyana has secured US$15 million from the Pandemic Fund and an additional US$7 million from the World Bank to completely upgrade laboratory services. This funding will support the creation of a Level Three national laboratory capable of handling and sequencing various pathogens, as well as the modernisation of regional hospital laboratories to perform over 150 types of tests.
The Minister also highlighted the growing role of telemedicine, which currently operates at 81 sites nationwide, enabling remote consultations with doctors and specialists. Plans are in place to extend telemedicine access to every health centre and even some health posts, and expansion will require human resources.
“I'm happy that this
batch also would have interacted with our telemedicine system. And this is one way in which you would be able to work with some of the doctors or some of the consultants so that you'd be able to consult your patient and make a better diagnosis… And over the next couple of years, we want to ensure that every health centre, and in some cases, health post, that we'll be able to put in telemedicine to help to guide you if you need such guidance.”
“So, you will have to be constantly learning and updating yourself, because as we improve the system, there are lots of things that you will need to do,” the Minister said.
Infrastructure upgrades are also underway across the country, with new hospitals under construction in Mabaruma, Region One (BarimaWaini); Kato, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni); and Lethem, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), along with major upgrades to facilities in Bartica. These hospitals will be equipped with laboratories, CT scanners, x-ray machines, and specialised rooms for rehabilitation services such as speech therapy and audiology.
With this in mind, Anthony called on the graduates to take full advantage of these improved facilities and to continually update their skills to meet the demands of a modern, integrated healthcare system.
“So, all of this, as we improve it, you will be the ones who we'll call upon to be very integrated into the delivery of care at these facilities. We are also, in terms of the rehab assistance, again, you will have a lot of opportunities because in these new institutions, they'll have rooms that can deal with speech therapy, rooms that can deal with audiology, and a whole host of other functions, so that, again, you'll be able to practise the skills that we are teaching you in a good environment,” he added.
Scenes from the commissioning of the new Waramuri Secondary School, which will host children from Waramuri, Haimarakabra, Para & Pimpler Creek, Region One (Barima-Waini)
There is video evidence showing Mohameds entering Venezuelan Embassy – Jagdeo
section of the gathering at the
General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), Bharrat Jagdeo, has maintained that there is a link between businessman and We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party leader Azruddin Mohamed and his family to the Venezuelan Government, stating that there is “video evidence” of the Mohameds entering the Venezuelan Embassy in Georgetown.
Speaking at a rally in Alexander Village on Wednesday, Jagdeo referred to recent revelations by Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd that Venezuelan Ambassador Carlos Amador Perez Silva confirmed Mohamed had applied for a visa to Venezuela. Todd also disclosed that Mohamed and his relatives have been making frequent visits to the embassy.
The US-sanctioned businessman turned presidential hopeful Azruddin Mohamed has denied ever visiting the Venezuelan Embassy or applying for a Venezuelan visa.
“Right now, he has issued a statement, the father, that he did not go to the Venezuelan embassy recently. You know, several US congressmen said he’s Maduro’s puppet and that they work closely with Venezuela… Watch what will happen over the next few days because I hope he will deny that too, because there is video evidence of the Mohameds going into the Venezuelan embassy,” Jagdeo revealed.
The development comes just over a month after two United States (US) Congress members, Carlos Gimenez and María Elvira Salazar, described Mohamed as “Maduro’s puppet”, a reference to Venezuelan President
Secretary of PPP,
Nicolás Maduro, and accused him of working closely with the Venezuelan regime. Guyana and Venezuela are currently before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over the high-profile border controversy concerning the 1899 Arbitral Award, which established the boundary between the two nations.
Jagdeo said the situation is of grave concern to the Government, stating that the Mohameds’ visa application could be linked to the fact that Venezuela has no extradition treaty with the US.
“This gentleman poses a national security risk… Why are the Mohameds applying now for a visa to Venezuela of all countries in the world? Because Venezuela does not have an extradition treaty with the United States of America,” Jagdeo asserted.
He further criticised Mohamed’s leadership credentials, reiterating a history of tax evasion and illegal gold smuggling. “… how could you put your future in the hands of someone who has never managed anything?” Jagdeo asked the large gathering.
On June 30, US Congressman Gimenez had also raised concerns over what he describes as Venezuela’s attempt to influence internal affairs in Guyana, specifically through a controversial figure. Gimenez stated, “In the US Congress we are alarmed by the regime in
Fire Chief warns against prank calls
...as GFS receives 4000 emergency calls so far this year
Venezuela’s attempt to undermine Guyana through its pro-Maduro puppet candidate Azruddin Mohamed, who is sanctioned by OFAC (Office of Foreign Assets Control).”
Over the last five years, Maduro has launched a series of initiatives against Guyana in pursuit of its annexation of Essequibo, including a fake election of a governor and “representatives” to the National Assembly for the region.
Subsequently, US Congresswoman Salazar has already cautioned that “We remain deeply concerned about efforts to undermine democracy in Guyana. As a strategic ally of the United States, Guyana deserves leaders who respect democratic values. Individuals sanctioned for illicit activities must not be allowed to jeopardise this vital relationship.” Venezuela currently does not have an active extradition treaty with the US. Historically, the country has considered extradition requests on a caseby-case basis, weighing factors such as reciprocity and the interests of justice. However, this approach is not governed by a formal, treaty-based framework.
President Irfaan Ali had previously explained that the US-sanctioned businessman is a risk and a threat to Guyana’s financial stability, sovereignty and diplomacy.
At least three local banks have cancelled the personal accounts of individuals on the candidates lists of WIN. Meanwhile, in addition to the US sanctions for smuggling 10,000 kilograms (kg) of gold and avoiding the payment of more than US$50 million in duty taxes, Mohamed is charged locally with tax evasion for amounts totalling some $900 million.
CGregory
has raised concerns about the increasing number of prank calls to the emergency line, 912.
“Prank calls are something that the Guyana Fire Service would have noticed a large increase in recent times.” he said. “Consider the waste of resources that it takes to go to a call when there is eventually no need. It may be, at the same time, your home or your neigh-
bour’s home that might need that kind of a response.”
The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) has responded so far this year to more than 4000 emergency calls, including fire and medical cases, according to Wickham during a recent interview highlighting the service’s modernisation, expanded operations, and the challenges faced by firefighters on the ground.
“Our ambulances would
have already responded to over 4000 calls for this year,” he disclosed, noting that the service’s medical teams have already delivered five new-borns in 2025. “The fire service response is one that is… we take it as an emergency,” he added.
Wickham also explained that all GFS fire tenders arrive at scenes with water on board, typically 450 gallons, but depending on the fire’s size and location, firefighters may need to supplement their supply from mains, canals, or hydrants.
The GFS, which once operated just five fire stations nationwide, now has 22 and is in the process of building six more.
According to Wickham, these upgrades, backed by $9 billion in recent Government investment, are part of an effort to ensure faster response times and improved readiness in both urban and rural areas.
“We have to ensure our citizens… sleep and wake in their homes comfortably, knowing that they are preventing fires from happening,” Wickham said. “Our goal is to reach those in distress as quickly as possible.”
McDoom plumber granted bail on armed robbery charge
A25-year-old plumber from McDoom, East Bank Demerara, was on Wednesday granted bail after appearing before Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on a charge of robbery under arms.
The accused, Orion Edghill, pleaded not guilty to the allegation that on Sunday, August 10, at Longden Street, Georgetown, while armed with a knife, he robbed Reatesh Singh of a black haversack valued at $5000, a black cell phone worth $24,000, and $1800 in cash.
The prosecution objected to bail, citing both the seriousness and prevalence of such offences.
In his defence, Edghill gave the court his version of events, stating that on the day in question, he had gone to the Kitty Seawall, where he was imbibing excessive alcohol to the point of falling asleep. He said he later awoke to find himself being approached by a police officer known to him as “Eastman”.
“I woke up, and I washed my face with a bottle of water, and then I saw Eastman come up to me, and they searched me,” Edghill told the court.
He said that at the time, he had in his possession only a small pair of scissors, which the police took away from him.
When Magistrate Azore asked why he was carrying the scissors, he responded, “Ma’am, I will be very honest; I do burn my little weed.”
The defendant claimed he was then taken into custody, transferred between several police stations, and accused of committing a robbery, an allegation he firmly denied. “I was never charged or brought before the court for any criminal activities,” he said, adding that he was innocent of the offence before the court.
His father, given the opportunity to address the court, described him as “a good guy” who is currently learning a trade to better himself. He also told the court that the family had not been informed of the arrest and only learnt of the situation that day, prompting his appearance in court.
When asked by Magistrate Azore if he would return to court if granted bail, Edghill assured, “I will return because I’m not guilty of any crime.”
Magistrate Azore granted bail in the sum of $35,000 and adjourned the matter to September 24.
Orion Edghill
hief Fire Officer
Wickham
Chief Fire Officer Gregory Wickham
General
Bharrat Jagdeo
A
Alexander Village public meeting on Wednesday evening
Region 5 farmers, youth reap record gains under PPP/C — Parag
Farmers across Region Five (MahaicaBerbice) received more support under the current People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration than under the previous APNU/AFC Government.
This was told to residents of the region by Local Government and Regional Development Minister Sonia Parag. Her comments came as she addressed a rally at Bath Settlement hosted by the PPP/C on Sunday.
Noting that Region Five is the largest agricultural producing region, Parag pointed out that no area was left out from support.
“You are the largest agricultural producing region in this country, and the support that has been given to the sugar workers, whether you're from Bath Settlement or Rosignol, Shieldstown, or Blairmont; the support that has been given to the farmers, whether you're from Mahaicony or Mahaicony Branch Road or Perth or wherever you are; the support that has been given; and the Hope-like Canal is one of the largest projects that we are doing in Region Five under His Excellency's leadership.”
Region Five is also home to the Blackbelly Sheep project.
The project in Guyana is a livestock initiative focused on increasing the production of Black Belly sheep, a breed known for its meat and by-products, to reduce reliance on imported lamb and mutton. Launched by the Government, the project aims to enhance food security, promote economic growth, and empower various sectors, including women and individuals with disabilities.
It was launched in March 2022 by President Irfaan Ali. The initial phase involved an investment of $600 million (US$3 million) with the goal of increasing
sheep production and reducing food imports within the CARICOM region.
The project started with 1000 sheep being imported from Barbados, and according to President Ali, there are more than 3000 of the offspring.
The project is expected to bring several important benefits to Region Five and the country as a whole by boosting agricultural and economic development.
Known for its strong farming base, Region Five stands to gain from increased livestock production, as the Black Belly sheep breed is well-suited to local conditions and is prized for its high-quality meat. The project will help
Taxi driver granted bail on larceny charge
A31-year-old taxi driver from Agricola, East Bank Demerara, was granted bail on Wednesday after appearing before Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on a larceny charge.
Isaiah Lall, of Remus Street, Agricola, pleaded not guilty to the allegation that on August 9, at the Avenue of the Republic, Georgetown, he stole two gold bracelets valued at $300,000 from Nicola Craig.
The prosecution opposed bail, emphasising both the seriousness and prevalence of such offences in Georgetown.
Lall, represented by attorney Stacy Goodings, provided his account to the court, explaining that he had been drinking with friends at Stabroek Market when police approached him to enquire about the driver of a vehicle.
Upon confirming the vehicle belonged to him, Lall said he was instructed to report to the Brickdam Police Station. This followed an allegation that a person wearing a red top and cream pants had committed the theft.
Goodings told the court
Isaiah Lall
that her client was taken into custody without having any confrontation with the virtual complaint or being placed on an identification parade. She said he had not been contacted by investigators since.
She further noted that on the day in question, many others in the area were dressed in similar colours due to ongoing campaign activities, increasing the possibility of mistaken identity.
“This was an unfortunate situation for my client, who
create jobs, increase income for farmers, and encourage youth involvement in agriculture.
Additionally, by expanding the country’s sheep population and improving breeding stock, the initiative supports food security and reduces the need for imported meat.
Parag pointed out that a Hope-like canal is being constructed in the region, explaining that it will reduce flooding and assist farmers tremendously.
“But more than that, it will open agricultural lands for our farmers to be able to thrive.”
The Hope-like canal, currently being constructed at Bengal Village in Region Five, Guyana, is a major infrastructural project aimed at improving drainage and water management for the region’s farmers. Once completed, the canal will help
to significantly reduce flooding during periods of heavy rainfall and high tides by allowing excess water to flow more efficiently into the Atlantic Ocean. This is especially important for Region Five, which is a key agricultural area in the country.
Farmers in this region often suffer crop and livestock losses due to waterlogging and poor drainage. The new canal will protect farmlands from these risks, improve farming conditions, and support increased agricultural productivity and food security.
Meanwhile, Parag pointed out that it was not only the agriculture sector which has received tremendous support from the Government over the past five years. She spoke of the large numbers of citizens of that region that have received training from the Government.
“In the Ministry of Public
Service, Region Five had the lowest numbers for the coastal region to ever receive training or a scholarship or a free tertiary education. And in the last five years, we have changed that because today I stand on this podium, and I say with confidence and conviction to you that under Dr Mohammad Ifraan Ali's last Administration, this region now stands at over 5000 people,” she proudly said.
“Our young people will be able to go back to college. We will see more young people being able to own their own business. The People's Progressive Party/Civic is for your progress, your development and your prosperity. To get support for the farmers, we will ensure that young people have a space to thrive and develop in this country. And as we continue that journey, we will continue walking alongside you,” Parag said.
has no previous criminal record,” Goodings said. “He has cooperated fully and is prepared to comply with any conditions the court may impose.”
After hearing submissions from both sides, Magistrate Azore granted Lall bail in the sum of $50,000, stressing the importance of the accused attending all future court proceedings.
The case has been adjourned to September 24 for continuation.
Local Government Minister Sonia Parag
Sod turned for new primary school to cater to children of Huradiah, surrounding communities
Construction of a new primary school for the communities of Huradiah, Region One, will begin on October 10, following a sod-turning ceremony held on Monday, August 11.
Once completed, the school will provide much-needed access to primary education for students from Huradiah, Acquero, Ko-Ko, Cabrora, Sheba and nearby areas, easing overcrowding at the nearby Santa Rosa Primary School, and accommodating about 250 students who currently attend the latter institution.
“We just turned the sod for the Huradiah, Sheba, Cabrera, Ko-Ko, and Acquero Primary School. These communities
will come together to decide the final name of the school, but these are the communities it will serve,”
Education Minister Priya Manickchand said at the ceremony.
The new facility is one of six originally planned, which were to be funded by an International Financial Institution (IFI). However, delays in securing that funding led the Government to step in and use local funds to fast-track the project.
Minister Manickchand explained why the Government decided to move forward with construction, despite not having the IFI funding in place.
“This project was initially planned with the IDB [Inter-American
Development Bank], but the processes with some IFIs take a very long time, and we couldn’t wait any longer. So, the Government is funding this project with local funds. This was necessary because Santa Rosa Primary School is overcrowded, and parents, students, and teachers have been asking for a new school.”
The land for the new school was donated by resident Camille Campbell, who offered a portion of her family’s property in Chiba to help address the overcrowding at Santa Rosa Primary. Initially, no one else was willing to part with a plot of land, but after discussing the matter with her father, who also has ownership of the land, Campbell
persuaded him by stressing the long-term benefits for future generations.
To this end, the education Minister lauded her efforts for contributing to the nation’s future. “We were very kindly gifted this land by Auntie Camille, who is here with us today. She has gifted not just these five communities but all of Guyana an invaluable gift,” the Minister said. “No one wants to give up land anywhere in the country – this is a worldwide phenomenon – but Camille gave up land for future generations of children who will grow up and contribute to this country in many ways. This is truly a patriotic gift.”
Camille Campbell shared how the decision to
Berbice boat builder drowning
donate the land came about:
“The Santa Rosa Primary School was overcrowded, and they were looking for a spot for a new school, but nobody seemed willing to give up land, so I went home and spoke to my father. I said, ‘Dad, we have a very big place at Sheba. Why don’t we give a part?’
He found it hard to decide at first, but I convinced him, explaining that it was for the benefit of future generations. We are all ageing, and eventually, the land will be left for the children.”
The ceremony also included remarks from Toshao Raul of Santa Rosa Village, who expressed excitement about the project’s start date and the positive impact it will have on the
community.
“Today is very special – not just for me but for the whole community,” he said. “Many people have been asking for a long time when the school will start. I’m happy to share that construction will begin on October 10. This school will serve the communities we mentioned.
“Just yesterday, a teacher from Santa Rosa Primary said she would love to retire at this new school because it is in her area. There are many positive feelings around this project, and as leader of the village, I’m very privileged and proud to be part of this milestone. I know this is just the first of many good things to come, and I’m very grateful.”
Family refutes Police report, decries “inaccuracies”
Tamesh
Days after a Berbice boat builder drowned at Number 65 Village, Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), family members are calling for justice after refuting the Police report about the incident.
Family members of the late Tamesh Takurdin are unhappy with inaccuracies in the public domain about the boat builder’s death last Wednesday. They are objecting to the Police report which stated that at least three persons were in the boat when it allegedly overturned just before the mouth of a canal leading to the Corentyne River.
The Police release had said that 22-year-old Takurdin, a fisherman of Number 65 Village, along with three other fishermen, were in a boat last Wednesday when the boat reportedly capsized and as a result, the young man disappeared into the water and his lifeless body was found some 90 minutes later.
However, relatives of the dead man said that he was not a fisherman but worked at the waterfront as a boat builder.
His employer, Bhimmankarin Singh, who was overseeing the work that day, said he was at the waterfront when Takurdin left on the speedboat.
Family members had previously told Guyana Times that Takurdin did not want to go on the boat for a test ride and was shouting
that
for the captain to return him to land.
However, his employer claimed that Takurdin would have been happy to go for the ride, pointing out that it was something that they looked forward to whenever they got the opportunity.
“Normally when we finish fixing a boat and we push them down in the water, me and he would have some fun with the boat, but that day – I don’t know if it was a mistake or what – that day, I was going with him and he turned and told me not to come, because my shoulder was hurting. He said that I could injure my shoulder again…” he recalled.
“Nobody don’t drink and come to the work site. I don’t encourage them to drink and work on people boat. The only person that drink was the driver for the boat that day. I can’t say what happened because about five minutes after, I hear that a boat turned over. When the boat push off and going to the creek, Tamesh was right here next to me. Sometimes when we push down a boat we would ask the captain to give us a little spin... to see [if] it leaking, but that day only Tamesh went with him, and then a little after the captain come back and ask for help,” Singh recounted.
He claimed that the report by the Police that Takurdin and three other persons were in the boat
was inaccurate, as it was only Takurdin and the captain who had left in the boat.
Takurdin’s job that day was to repair the leaks in the speedboat. It was after it was completed that he joined the captain on the test ride, which turned out to be fatal.
Jennifer Kewley, who also works at the landing, was part of the crew that was searching for Takurdin when his body was found and was pulled from the water.
“Well, they had about 12 persons out there searching and then the Police came and joined us and they took some pictures from the area where the boat toppled over, and then “Ravi” dive under the water and find the boy,” she stated.
She denied the allegation that the now dead man was under the influence of alcohol at the time of that fatal ride.
“They are saying that the boy was drunk and working; the boy didn’t drink. Me and him were making joke and I run him with a piece of pipe – we were playing. He don’t smoke and he don’t drink. The driver for the boat was drunk. He was drinking at the bar at Number 67 Village Bar since morning,” Kewley alleged.
Family members are calling for justice. The dead man’s father, Omarpersaud Takurdin, who works at the sugar estate as a labourer, says since the captain of
the boat was released from Police custody, he has not engaged the family.
“I have to get justice for my son, because [the captain] drink his rum and take my son in the boat and go and kill him in this creek here,” the grieving father alleged.
Meanwhile, Radika Ramanandan, the grandmother of the dead boat
builder, focused on the owner of the speedboat which overturned while on a test run.
“He [Takurdin] is not a fisherman, he is a boat builder; we need justice for him. I want to know how is it that the owner for the boat can send a man who is drunk to drive his boat. You can’t send somebody [under] the influence of alcohol to
test drive your boat. I would like the Police Commander of our region to ensure that the Police investigate this matter very seriously,” she said.
The Police say the investigation is still active. Meanwhile, an autopsy conducted on the body of Takurdin gave his cause of death as asphyxia and drowning.
Deceased:
Takurdin The boat
Police say reportedly capsized, leading to the death of Takurdin
“When you vote on Sept 1, you are voting for a modern security system, protection of Guyana’s sovereignty”
– Pres Ali
President Irfaan Ali has called on Guyanese to view the September 1 General and Regional Elections as a defining moment for the nation’s sovereignty, security, and economic future.
Addressing a large crowd at a People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) rally in Alexander Village, Georgetown, the President devoted his remarks to outlining the Government’s achievements over the last five years and the ambitious plans for the next term, while warning of the risks of reversing progress.
“When you vote on September the 1st, you’re voting for a trusted international partner in this Government to take care of our sovereignty and national security. Never before in the history of this country have we formed so many strategic security partnerships and alliances to defend our sovereignty and our national security interests. We have an alliance with France, and we have alliances with every single CARICOM state. We are now a member of the RSS, the Regional Security System. We have an alliance with Colombia. We have alliances with the United States, with Canada, with the UK, with the Middle
East, and with India. We have been able to form the most inclusive broadbased security partnership for Guyana in the last five years. And this is important. It is important that we have a multitude of partners. It is important that we can rely on these partners to support us in our national defence and security,” the President stated.
Ali said that over the past five years, Guyana has built the “most inclusive, broad-based security partnership in the country’s history”, strengthening ties with major global and regional players. He stressed that these measures are designed not just to address crime but to safeguard the
country’s sovereignty in a period of heightened geopolitical challenges.
The President also linked the election to Guyana’s energy and economic security. He pledged to maintain the lowest fuel prices in the region, halve the cost of electricity, and protect households from global price shocks through targeted tax adjustments and increased domestic production of critical goods such as fertiliser, grains, and animal feed. He outlined plans for two major natural gas power plants that will power new industrial growth in manufacturing, agro-processing, data centres, and emerging urban hubs like Silica City.
“You’re voting to ensure
Edghill warns against damage to community roads by heavyduty equipment, trucks
Damage to a small community road caused by an iron-wheel excavator (Photo: DPI)
Mresult in extensive and costly repairs that burden the Government and taxpayers.
“When people see those things, call the police, report it to the Ministry of Public Works, take out a picture and put it on Facebook. People cannot continue to do things like this,” the Minister asserted.
that there is a Government in place that knows how to adjust the taxes and remove the taxes so that the imported inflation is not passed on to the consumer. You’re voting now – as you see now, we have the lowest prices at the pump in the entire region. You are voting to ensure a stable energy sector, one in which there will be no translated price increases at the extraordinary levels that are taking place globally,” the Head of State added. Ali spoke of reducing transportation costs, improving road networks, and making vehicle ownership more accessible, while strengthening agriculture to make Guyana the “livestock capital” of the region and a
leading producer of prawns and shrimp. He cited the ongoing Angola agro-processing project, which has already attracted $1 billion in investment and is projected to reach $5 billion in production within three years, before being turned over to Guyanese ownership.
Meanwhile, on trade and investment, the Guyanese leader highlighted his administration’s success in reducing tariffs from 35 per cent to 15 per cent in key markets, creating new export opportunities for Guyanese products. He noted that major international financial institutions and corporations, including Citibank, have been drawn to Guyana’s growing econo-
my, cementing its place as a rising player in global food, climate, and energy security.
The President said that his Government’s development strategy is not just about economic growth but about improving quality of life for all Guyanese. “It doesn’t come from being fanciful or crying about the problem. It comes from real policies, real initiatives. It comes from understanding the broader issues and developing policies that are directed to addressing these problems that are external in nature but have great internal implications. That is why our country is gaining more and more global recognition,” he told the crowd.
Kitty teen granted bail for alleged motorcycle theft
A19-year-old teenager from Kitty, Georgetown, was on Wednesday granted bail after being charged with larceny for allegedly stealing a motorcycle.
Elijah Nieunkirk appeared before Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts and pleaded not guilty to the allegation.
inister of Public Works Juan Edghill has issued a strong warning to truckers and heavy-duty equipment operators, as well as the owners of these vehicles, urging them to immediately cease the use of iron-wheel excavators and overloaded trucks on community roads.
Operators have also been cautioned to remove their vehicles from public roadways and recreational spaces, particularly within Georgetown. Failure to comply will result in impoundment, the Minister warned.
During a site inspection in Nabacalis, ECD, on Tuesday, Minister Edghill expressed serious concern over the ongoing damage to road infrastructure caused by such equipment. He emphasised that these actions
Minister Edghill further appealed to residents to exercise patience and allow new roads sufficient time to cure before use. He explained that this curing period is critical to ensure the roads set properly and have long-lasting durability.
It was stated in court that on Thursday, August 7, at Lamaha Street, Kitty, Nieunkirk allegedly stole a motorcycle valued at $211,000, belonging to Shanya Griffith.
The prosecution opposed bail, highlighting the serious nature of the offence and noting the prevalence of similar crimes.
Prosecutors also emphasised the strength of the evidence against the accused,
including a video-recorded interview in which he allegedly admitted to committing the theft, and argued that he might not return to court if granted bail.
Nieunkirk, who works as a plant attendant at Sterling Products, was represented by attorney Stacy Goodings. She told the court that her client has a fixed
residence at Lot 13 Railway Line, Kitty, and stressed that this was his first time being charged with any criminal offence.
Goodings requested that reasonable bail be considered, even if strict reporting conditions were imposed.
“My client has a fixed abode, and this is his first time being charged,” Goodings said. “We do not oppose any strict conditions the court may deem necessary to ensure his attendance at future hearings.”
After hearing submissions from both sides, Magistrate Azore granted bail in the sum of $75,000 and reminded the accused of the seriousness of the charge and the importance of adhering to all conditions.
The matter was adjourned to September 24 for continuation.
Elijah Nieunkirk
Dr President Irfaan Ali addressing a large crowd at a People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) rally in Alexander Village
Regional
T&T PM gives CAL management team 2 years to “sort out mess”
Trinidad & Tobago’s Prime Minister, Kamla PersadBissessar, has issued an ultimatum to the management of local carrier Caribbean Airlines (CAL): “Sort out the mess” in two years or find a new job.
Speaking at the UNC’s Monday Night Report in Couva, Persad-Bissessar accused management of failing to do its job, paying $60 million to EY and PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) for audits despite a large internal financial team, failing to submit audited financial statements, and operating unprofitable routes.
Since 2023, Caribbean Airlines has added several new destinations to its route map, including Puerto Rico, Martinique, Guadeloupe, and Tortola, as part of its 2023-2027 strategic plan – approved by the then PNM Government.
The airline transported over two million passengers in both 2023 and 2024, but Persad-Bissessar insists that despite the numbers, none of the routes are profitable.
Although some routes have maintained high passenger loads, others have struggled. For example, a new Jamaica service operating between Kingston/ Montego Bay and Fort Lauderdale has routinely seen poor load factors.
CAL’s financial state has also been somewhat of a mystery over the past few years. In 2021, Caribbean Airlines itself released unaudited financial results showing an operating loss of US$48 million for the first half of the year.
But in a 2024 Customer Appreciation Event, then Finance Minister Colm Imbert, who was also CAL’s line Minister, said the airline had moved from an operating loss of US$36
million, excluding debt service, in 2022 to a 2023 operating profit of US$24 million, minus debt service.
However, one year later, Imbert revealed an operating profit of just US$12.1 million in 2024 – a drop of 51 per cent. He attributed the decline to an increase in maintenance costs, handling costs, and security flight operations.
However, Imbert admitted his 2023 numbers were provided by CAL and didn’t come from his ministry –likely because the airline hasn’t submitted audited financial reports for the last nine years.
Pressed on who was responsible for the delay, Imbert said that he wrote to CAL’s chairman, Ronnie Mohammed, but ultimately blamed it on CAL CEO Garvin Medera, saying, “The CEO is the person who is eventually accountable.” (Source: Trinidad & Tobago Guardian)
US offers US$5M reward for
information leading to arrest of alleged Haitian gang
US authorities are offering a reward of up to US$5 million for information leading to the arrest or conviction of alleged Haitian gang leader Jimmy “Barbecue” Cherizier, following the unsealing of an indictment Tuesday that accuses him of conspiring to violate sanctions by directing money from the United States to his network in Haiti.
“He’s a gang leader responsible for heinous human rights abuses, including violence against American citizens in Haiti,” US Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro said in announcing the charges.
Prosecutors say Cherizier, 48, and Bazile Richardson, 48, a naturalised US citizen, led a scheme to solicit money from members of the Haitian diaspora in the US, route the transfers through intermediaries in Haiti, and send receipts to Cherizier. The funds were allegedly used to pay gang members and obtain firearms from illicit dealers.
Richardson was arrested on July 23 in Pasadena, Texas, and is expected to appear in federal court in Washington, D.C., later today. Cherizier remains at large in Haiti.
“The US Government sanctioned Cherizier in 2020 because he was responsible for an ongoing campaign of violence, including the 2018 La Saline massacre,” Pirro said, noting that 71 people
Jamaican rescued from notorious Alligator Alcatraz
AJamaican man who was being held at Alligator Alcatraz, the detention centre in the Florida Everglades which houses illegal migrants and which critics have condemned as being harsh, returned to the island on August 8, 2025, following a collaborative intervention by a diaspora group and the Jamaican Government.
The Jamaican, whose name has not been disclosed, is said to have overstayed his time in the US after his visa expired in September 2024.
A news release from the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council (GJDC) for the Northeast United States said the man’s plight was first brought to its attention after his sister in Jamaica contacted Michelle TullochNeil, the GJDC’s representative for the Northeast US, on July 15, 2025.
Tulloch-Neil immediately implemented advocacy
efforts, including contacting immigration attorney Beverly Clarke for advice.
She subsequently dispatched a letter to Major General (Ret’d) Anthony Anderson, Jamaica’s ambassador to the United States, requesting urgent intervention in the matter, while the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade was also engaged.
“A joint effort between Ambassador Anderson and Consul General Oliver Mair in Miami resulted in direct contact with the detention
facility, resulting in the initiation of plans for the individual to self-deport,” the GJDC said.
“He was subsequently transferred to a smaller facility on July 30 and arrived in Jamaica on Friday [August 8] in good spirits,” the group added. The man, who was arrested while driving in Florida, had been in the US for approximately two years. During the stop, authorities discovered his visa had expired. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)
Blast at Brazil explosives factory kills 9 workers
Sleader
Jimmy “Barbecue” Cherizier
were killed, more than 400 houses destroyed, and at least seven women raped.
Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg said Cherizier and Richardson “sought to raise funds in the United States to bankroll Cherizier’s violent criminal enterprise, which is driving a security crisis in Haiti.”
Cherizier, a former Haitian National Police officer, leads the Revolutionary Forces of the G9 Family and Allies and helped create Viv Ansanm, a coalition of Haiti’s gangs desig-
nated as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation in 2025.
In a short video statement, Cherizier immediately replied to the indictment.
“If the FBI wants me, I’m here,” he said in English, a language he rarely uses.
“I’m willing to collaborate with them on one condition.
There can be no lies told.
Bazile Richardson, AKA Fredo, is innocent. He has never sent any money to me to finance anything in Haiti. Stop with all those lies, and we can collaborate.” (Source: Haiti Liberte, The Haitian Times)
ix men and three women have died in a blast at an explosives factory near the Brazilian city of Curitiba, in southern Paraná state, emergency officials say.
The explosion happened on Tuesday morning local time when a number of people were on shift in the factory.
Seven persons were also injured, and emergency personnel with sniffer dogs searched for the nine missing workers, but given the devastating damage at the site, Paraná’s security Minister later announced that there was “no longer any hope of finding survivors”.
The company that owns the factory, Enaex, said it was investigating what could have caused the explosion.
The blast in Quatro Barras, near the state capital, Curitiba, happened just before 06:00h local time (09:00 GMT).
Residents from nearby towns reported being woken up by the sound.
“Within a radius of approximately 1.5 km (0.9 miles), we have houses that were hit, with broken
windows, damaged structures, and a huge shock wave,” a spokeswoman for the fire department said. She added that the blast had opened up a crater at the site.
Enaex makes explosives for civilian purposes used in construction and mining. (Excerpt from BBC News)
Uruguay’s Lower House of Parliament votes in favour of euthanasia
Uruguay’s lower house of Parliament voted on Wednesday to legalise euthanasia, emulating Cuba, Colombia and Ecuador in a societal shift around predominantly Catholic Latin America.
The bill to decriminalise assisted dying passed by 64 votes in the 99-seat Chamber of Representatives after an emotional overnight debate. It now moves to the senate, which is widely expected to approve legislation before year-end.
Under the new law, mentally competent adults
suffering from terminal or incurable illnesses can request euthanasia.
One key amendment appeared to help win over Uruguayan lawmakers against the original 2022 proposal by requiring a medical board to review a case if the two doctors involved disagree.
Legislator Luis Gallo, who opened the debate, recalled deceased patients who had inspired the bill.
“Let’s not forget that the request is strictly personal: it respects the free and individual will of the patient, without interference, because it concerns
their life, their suffering, and their decision not to continue living,” said Gallo of the centre-left Broad Front ruling coalition.
Opinion polls show widespread public support for euthanasia from President Yamandu Orsi down. Uruguay also pioneered legalising gay marriage, abortion and cannabis use.
Uruguay joins a growing list of countries, including Canada, Spain, and New Zealand, that have legalised some form of assisted dying. Britain is also doing so. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Emergency services search the site of the explosion in Quatro Barras, Brazil
Around the World
WOIL NEWS
World oil market looks more “bloated” after OPEC+ hike, IEA says; oil prices fall 1%
orld oil supply will rise more rapidly than expected this year and next as OPEC+ members further increase output and supply from outside the group grows, the International Energy Agency said on Wednesday.
Supply will rise by 2.5 million barrels per day (bpd) in 2025, up from 2.1 million bpd previously forecast, the IEA, which advises industrialised countries, said in a monthly report, and by a further 1.9 million bpd next year.
OPEC+ is adding more crude to the market after the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, Russia and other allies decided to unwind its most recent layer of output cuts more rapidly than earlier scheduled. The extra supply, along with concern about the economic impact of President Donald Trump’s tariffs, has weighed on oil this year.
“The latest data show lacklustre demand across the major economies, and with consumer confidence still depressed, a sharp rebound appears remote,” the agency said in the report that linked its higher output forecast to increased OPEC+ production targets. “Oil market balances look ever more bloated.”
The report implies that supply may exceed demand by almost 3 million bpd next year, driven by growth from outside the wider OPEC+ group and a limited expansion in demand.
Despite higher OPEC+ production, non-OPEC producers will continue to lead supply growth this year and next owing to rising output in the United States (US), Canada, Brazil and Guyana, according to the IEA.
Still, additional sanctions on Russia and Iran may curb supplies from the world’s third- and fifth-largest producers, the IEA said.
Despite lowering its demand forecast, the IEA expects global crude oil refining rates to approach a fresh all-time high of 85.6 million bpd in August, after reaching 84.9 million bpd in July.
Meanwhile, oil prices fell more than 1 per cent on Wednesday after US crude supply unexpectedly rose, but losses were limited by the US Treasury Secretary saying President Donald Trump could leverage sanctions at a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Brent crude futures dropped 88 cents, or 1.3 per cent, to US$65.24 a barrel by 1:14 p.m. EDT, while US West Texas Intermediate crude futures fell 96 cents, or 1.5 per cent, to US$62.21 a barrel.
US crude stocks rose by 3 million barrels to 426.7 million barrels, the Energy Information Administration said on Wednesday. Analysts in a Reuters poll had expected a 275,000-barrel draw.
Net US crude imports rose last week by 699,000 barrels per day, EIA said. (Excerpt from Reuters)
South Sudan ‘approves’ Israeli plan to send Gazans to country
South
Sudan’s cabinet has agreed to receive Palestinians from the Gaza Strip following a request from Israel, The Telegraph has learnt.
A foreign Ministry official in Juba said the Government had approved the request as part of a deal which also involved the US and the United Arab Emirates.
The move comes as Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli Prime Minister, is attempting to revive the controversial idea of “voluntary” resettlement of civilians from the enclave.
On Wednesday, South Sudan described claims of a deal as “baseless” and not reflective of official Government policy.
shelter in a tent camp on a beach in Gaza
However, it has been claimed that the Government has in fact agreed to work with Israel, raising the potential of a serious row from countries that oppose any
suggestion of resettlement of Gazans.
Meanwhile, America would lift sanctions on South Sudan, and Israel would invest in health and educa-
tion. “The South Sudanese land is enough to host more people from different nations, and also it’s good for the South Sudanese to open wide the window for external business to grow the economy,” the official said.
News of the possible South Sudan deal broke after Mr Netanyahu appeared on Israeli television to revive discussion about relocating civilians from the Strip. Israel is said to have held talks with Indonesia, Libya, Ethiopia, Somalia and Somaliland about the possibility of accepting Gazans, but it was reported that these had not borne fruit. (Excerpt from The Telegraph)
South Korea’s former First Lady arrested after court issues warrant on corruption charges
South Korea’s former First Lady, Kim Keon Hee, the wife of the impeached former president Yoon Suk Yeol, has been arrested on corruption charges, a special prosecutor leading a wide-reaching probe said.
The arrest, which came after a Seoul central district court ruling, creates an unprecedented situation in which both members of a former presidential couple are simultaneously in custody.
The court granted the warrant, citing the risk of tampering with evidence, according to the Yonhap
Kim include violations of capital market and financial investment laws, as well as political funds laws.
She denies the charges.
Prosecutors allege she made over 800 million won (£428,000) through manipulating the stock prices of Deutsch Motors, a local BMW dealership, between 2009 and 2012, by conspiring with others to artificially inflate shares.
news agency. “The arrest warrant against Kim has been issued,” the prosecutors said in a brief statement.
The charges against
She is also accused of receiving over 270 million won worth of illegal political funding through free opinion polling services and using this to influence candidate selections for the
conservative People Power party in the country’s 2022 byelections.
The third charge involves accepting luxury gifts, including Chanel handbags and expensive jewellery, from the Unification Church through a shaman intermediary in exchange for favourable treatment of development projects in Cambodia.
She will be held at Nambu detention centre in southwestern Seoul, separate from her husband, who has been in custody at Seoul detention centre since July. (Excerpt from The Guardian)
At least 20 refugees, migrants die in shipwreck off Italy
At least 20 people have died in a shipwreck off the southern Italian island of Lampedusa, and a United
Manchester bomber’s brother charged with attempted murder of prison guards
The brother of the Manchester Arena bomber has been charged with attempted murder after allegedly attacking four prison officers with weapons and hot cooking oil in a high-security jail.
Hashem Abedi, 28, has been charged with a total of five offences following the incident at HMP (Highest Measured Population) Frankland in Durham on April 12.
He is accused of three counts of attempted murder, one count of assault and one count of unauthorised possession in prison of a knife or offensive weapon.
The officers suffered burns and stab wounds when Abedi allegedly threw hot cooking oil over them be-
fore using makeshift weapons to stab them. The investigation into the alleged attack was led by counter-terrorism police.
The jihadist is serving a 55-year sentence for assisting Salman Abedi, his brother, to carry out the suicide attack that killed 22 people at an Ariana Grande concert
in Manchester in May 2017.
Jailed in 2020 for his part in the bombing, he was sentenced to a further three years and 10 months for a “vicious attack” on a prison officer in May that year.
Abedi will appear at Westminster magistrates’ court on Sept 18. (Excerpt from The Telegraph)
Nations agency says more refugees and migrants could be missing as search operations continue.
Rescue services on Wednesday found 20 bodies, while 60 survivors, 56 men and four women, were brought ashore to Lampedusa, according to the Italian Red Cross and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
The disaster, involving people travelling from Libya, was the latest to befall refugees and migrants making the perilous Mediterranean crossing from Africa to Europe.
An Italian law enforcement aircraft spotted a capsized boat with bodies in the water about 23 kilometres (km) off Lampedusa on Wednesday morning, triggering a rescue operation, a source close to the matter told the Reuters news agency.
The Reuters source said that based on initial accounts from the rescued people, they departed from the Tripoli area in Libya in
south of Lampedusa, Italy, in the Mediterranean Sea
the early morning aboard two boats. One of the boats began taking on water, and they transferred to the other vessel, which later capsized in rough waters.
Initial UNHCR figures suggested that 92 to 97 people were in the group, indicating as many as 17 people were missing. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
Hashem Abedi, pictured moments before a previous attack on prison staff in Belmarsh
South Korea’s former First Lady Kim Keon Hee arrives at a court to attend a hearing to review her arrest warrant requested by special prosecutors in Seoul, South Korea, on Tuesday
Palestinians displaced by the Israeli offensive
Refugees and migrants stand on a wooden boat near the NonGovernmental organisation (NGO) Open Arms rescue vessel "Astral" in international waters
Keep your thoughts to yourself and avoid an emotional altercation with someone you encounter while socializing. Pay more attention to taking care of your responsibilities and less to piling more onto your to-do list than you can handle. Organization and discipline are necessary to maintain your reputation. A clean slate will help avoid criticism.
Emotions will surface regarding domestic and personal affairs. Focus on patience, kindness, and compromise, and you will find solutions that bring you closer to the lifestyle you desire and the people you care about most. Don’t waste time on matters over which you have no control. Follow your heart and do what makes you happy.
An open mind will keep you aware of the possibilities. Research, observe, and converse with people in the know, and you’ll discover something that will make life choices easier. A change in routine, focusing on health and fitness, and using your intelligence to navigate through uncomfortable situations will help you manage whatever you encounter. Look at every angle, regulation, or uncertainty that prevails before you make a move. Change requires your attention and insight to ensure no one lures you down the wrong path or tries to take advantage of you. Walk away from excessive suggestions and taking on responsibilities that don’t belong to you.
You have the wherewithal to be successful, but first, you must determine what that means to you. It’s time to please yourself and to let others fend for themselves. Time is ticking, and talking is procrastinating if you don’t follow through. Be engaging and fruitful, and let discipline drive you to your destination.
Volunteer, do your part, and see what happens. The people you meet will lead to new possibilities. Engage in discussions, offer suggestions, and showcase your skills. Networking and redesigning how you adapt your expertise to fit trends will take you on a fascinating journey. Pay attention, nurture the ones you love, reflect, and engage. Push hard where energy is a requirement to get things done on time and your way. Take control, do your thing, and stop waiting for someone else to step in and do things for you. Take better care of your health and well-being, and fine-tune your lifestyle to eliminate excess and poor management.
Engage in events or pastimes that will help fine-tune your assets and redefine what and how you offer what you enjoy doing most. Travel, reunions, and personal growth will help you discover what’s missing in your life and how to turn things around that are holding you back.
A change will spark your imagination and interests. Refuse to let emotional spending or indulgent behavior cause you to miss an opportunity or chance to lower your overhead to ease your stress. Home improvements that you can do yourself will be the most rewarding. Invest smartly in yourself and thrive.
Spend more time nurturing and protecting what you’ve worked so hard to acquire and less trying to impress outsiders with tough talk or force. Show compassion and understanding, and you’ll gain insight into what others want and need to support your demands. Life is about clarity, honesty, and free will, not conquest and demand.
Be careful making promises. Don’t offer anything you can’t deliver. A change at home can save you money. Get the goahead from those close by or where regulations require you to meet specific conditions before you continue. A money-making opportunity is within reach. Extend your thoughts and put your plans in motion.
Spend less time analyzing and pontificating and more time doing. What you accomplish will have an impact on those you encounter and the reputation you are building. A change may be necessary to embark on a journey to learn and expand your interests, lifestyle, and long-term plans. Personal growth, social events, and romance are favored.
ARCHIE
Alast-ball six from Graham Clark saw Northern Superchargers defeat Southern Brave on their home turf in a nail-biting finish.
Put into bat, the Brave were soon in all kinds of trouble. Kiwi Jacob Duffy, fresh off the plane from a Test series with Zimbabwe, decimated their power-packed top order, reducing them to 26 for 3 off 24 balls by dismissing Leus du Plooy, James Vince and Jason Roy. James Coles and the evergreen Laurie Evans rebuilt steadily then violent-
The Hundred
Graham Clark’s last-ball 6 clinches thriller for Northern Superchargers
ly, putting on 87 in 57 balls to put a defendable total in sight. Despite spin twins Mitchell Santner and Adil Rashid keeping things in check, the Brave finished with a middling 139 for 5.
Craig Overton replicated the work of Duffy, taking three relatively inexpensive wickets for the Brave, but Zak Crawley sparkled alongside England teammate Harry Brook, both of whom scored quickfire 20s.
When Chris Jordan pulled up with a groin inju-
ry, it felt like a game-changing moment, but the Brave rallied, with Jofra Archer bowling a brilliant penultimate set, going for just one run and taking two wickets to finish with 2 for 15.
The Superchargers needed 10 off the last set, bowled by Tymal Mills. Dots off balls three and four left five needed off the last, at which point Clark hit a back-ofthe-hand slower ball over the ropes at deep midwicket to send the away fans into a frenzy.
Clark, only playing due to a David Miller niggle, said he felt “euphoric” after sealing the points. “I thought I’d messed it up when I left that wide one and then missed a slot ball, but it’s such a good feeling to get over the line,” he said.
“Batting in the middle order role is something I’ve never done before. I’ve spent the last few days with [batting coach] Neil McKenzie trying to improve my power-hitting. We thought it was a really good wicket,
where you could play proper shots. Santner really took the pressure off: he’s a quality operator when he
fields, bowls or bats; such a calm character, and he hits the ball so cleanly.” (ESPNcricinfo)
Sophie Devine stars as Brave maintain perfect start
Atight bowling performance led by Sophie Devine, followed by a comfortable run chase with Danni Wyatt-Hodge and Laura Wolvaardt at the helm, saw Southern Brave easily defeat Northern Superchargers by eight wickets at Southampton and make it three wins from three in The Hundred women’s competition.
Electing to bat first, the Superchargers started in a subdued fashion, scoring just four from the first 10 balls and losing Alice Davidson-Richards (2) and Phoebe Litchfield (5) on the way to posting 19-2 in the 25-ball powerplay.
Davina Perrin (13) was run out by Tilly CorteenColeman going for an incredibly risky second as the visitors continued to labour against tight Brave bowling, reaching 43-3 at halfway.
Mady Villiers took the big wicket of Annabel Sutherland (20), the Aussie well caught by Maia Bouchier at long-on, before Georgia Adams removed Superchargers wicketkeeper Bess Heath (3), brilliantly caught running backwards by her opposite number Rhianna Southby.
Skipper Hollie Armitage (36 not out) stuck in and was joined by Lucy Higham (13) at 74 for 7, the pair rallying late in the innings, sharing a partnership of 27 before Higham was dismissed by Devine (3-15) as the Kiwi took two in two in the final set to see Superchargers 102 all out.
In the chase, Grace Ballinger conceded just a wide from the opening set as Maia Bouchier started cautiously.
A single by Wyatt-Hodge
off Kate Cross to take the score to 5-0 saw the experienced right-hander become the second player to pass 1000 runs in The Hundred after Nat Sciver-Brunt reached the milestone last week.
Bouchier (5) was caught at mid-off off Cross, but Wyatt-Hodge put her foot on the gas, hitting Linsey Smith’s left-arm spin for three consecutive boundaries, combining with Wolvaardt to bring up the Brave’s 50.
Wyatt-Hodge was stumped off Katherine Fraser for 43 with 20 runs still required, but Wolvaardt (33 not out) and Devine (15 not out) saw the Brave home with 17 balls to spare.
Meerkat Match Hero Devine said, “The support we’ve had down here these last two games has been exceptional. It’s so nice to have a couple of wins here, and we’ve got a bit of travel to do now.
“We were a little bit in
two minds as well with the overhead conditions and a used wicket. The great thing about this competition is the wins at home and being able to play to your home conditions, and I think we did that exceptionally well today. “Credit to everyone; I think we adapted really well with the ball, and the way Danni and Wolvy went out there with the bat, they made it look like a different wicket.” (ESPNcricinfo)
Northern Superchargers (Women) (100 balls maximum) Davina Perrin run out (CorteenColeman/†Southby) 13
Alice Davidson-Richards c Bouchier b Bell 2 Phoebe Litchfield b Devine 5 Annabel Sutherland c Bouchier b Villiers 20 Hollie Armitage (c) run out (†Southby) 36
Kate Cross st †Southby
b Corteen-Coleman 1 Katherine Fraser lbw b Adams 4 Lucy Higham c Corteen-Coleman b Devine 13
Linsey Smith c Adams b Devine 0 Grace Ballinger not out 1 Extras (b 2, w 2) 4
does decide that a two-tier system is best for the World Test Championship (WTC), West Indies could well be one of the teams outside the top tier – they were eighth out of nine teams in each of the three editions so far, and have lost each of their three Tests in the ongoing cycle to Australia. It’s a possibility the stakeholders in West Indies cricket are wary of – Clive Lloyd is worried about “being in that group for a hundred years” –and they are hoping to have a say in it, as Cricket West Indies (CWI) chief executive Chris Dehring put it.
“All of that we have a role to play [in]; we have a seat at the table at the ICC,” Dehring said at a press conference after the CWI’s emergency meeting in Trinidad
West Indies “hedging our bets” as fear over 2-tier WTC grows
at Sabina Park against Australia. “We have to just stay abreast, as close as possible to all the changes that could happen, position ourselves, hedging our bets so to speak, to make sure we are in there as West Indies cricket no matter which way the wind blows, and try to take advantage of it.”
The ICC last month formed a working group, led by former New Zealand batter Roger Twose, to look into, among other things, improving the WTC ahead of the 2025-2027 cycle. A two-tier system was among the most significant topics discussed at the ICC annual conference in July. Twose, New Zealand Cricket’s (NZC) representative on the ICC Board, is expected to make recommendations to the board.
A two-tier WTC has been debated for more than 15 years, with the ICC show-
ing its willingness to consider the idea as far back as 2009, though Full Members have been split on the issue for various reasons.
Lloyd, one of the former cricketers – along with Brian Lara, Viv Richards and others – who were invited to be part of the meeting, pointed his finger at the share of the ICC pie that the member boards are given, saying that the West Indies, as the top team in the 1970s and 1980s and a force even in the 1990s, deserved consideration despite their falling standards.
Cricket legend Sir Viv inspires Windies Academy players in powerful legacy session
Cricket West Indies (CWI) recently hosted another instalment in its series of inspiring Legacy Sessions, this time featuring one of the game and region’s greatest icons, Sir Vivian “Viv” Richards, who addressed West Indies Academy players on Thursday, July 31.
Sir Vivian delivered a passionate presentation focusing on what it truly means to wear the maroon, and the qualities required to become a champion, especially against the backdrop of the ever-changing face of the world game.
The cricket icon reflected deeply on the mindset, unity and sacrifices that he and his teammates embraced during their era of dominance and emphasised how their togetherness enabled them to conquer the
cricketing world.
The session fell within Part 3 of the CWI's ongoing History of West Indies Cricket/Legacy Sessions programme, which focuses on The Golden Era (1976–1995), highlighting key achievements including the West Indies' remarkable 15-year unbeaten streak in Test series (1980–1995) and their World Cup victories in 1975 and 1979, as well as Richards’ era as captain (from 1984 to 1991), which was characterised by fearless cricket and supported by the dominance of legendary bowlers Malcolm Marshall, Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh.
These sessions form part of CWI's broader player development strategy designed to ensure that promising young cricketers receive world-class guid-
ance both on and off the field, with previous sessions held in May of this year featuring West Indies greats Sir Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh.
Sir Vivian’s presentation was preceded by brief comments from Andy "Job" Christian, one of Antigua's most talented all-round athletes and a close friend of Sir Viv, who represented the country in track and field, football and basketball, and spoke directly to the Academy players about the national and regional pride.
These sessions serve as vital reminders to Academy players of the legacy of which they are a part as West Indies cricketers by connecting them to the proud heritage that defines the region's cricketing excellence. (CWI)
“We have to look at what’s happening at the ICC with the share-out of the money. India, Australia and England get 180 million, and the West Indies will get 80 million like Bangladesh and Afghanistan, and we are just two years out of being in that group for 100 years,” Lloyd said. “To me, it’s not right. We have to stand up. We have to go to the ICC and ask for special dispensation. Because when we were in the ascendancy, and we were playing so well, everyone wanted to play with us.
“We were playing Australia very often, with England very often, and when we went to Pakistan or India, we got millions of people [to the grounds]. We need to get a better share of the pie, because we were the
cash cows for a long time, and we need to get some of that. I am hoping the board follows up on that recommendation so we can be adequately given the money that is needed.”
Is Daren Sammy’s honeymoon period over?
Daren Sammy, the former all-rounder and captain of the West Indies teams that won the World Cup in 2012 and 2016, took over as the all-format West Indies Coach in April this year. All three of their Tests since then have been lost. Australia were the opponents in the Caribbean and were favourites, but 3-0 was a bit too one-sided, and the 27 all out in the last innings of the series was humiliating.
Was it the wrong call to increase Sammy’s responsibilities?
Miles Bascombe, the CWI director of cricket, pointed to the handicaps Sammy had been working with but didn’t confirm or deny anything about the future.
“We still need additional support for him. We still have to have camps. Many times, he would not be available himself, because he would be
on tour. We still need to bring in other support staff, which would come at a cost. There was no financial consideration in terms of merging the roles,” Bascombe said. “The underlying reason [for choosing Sammy] was that we felt Daren had been able to articulate a clear plan, and we saw him do that in the white-ball formats, both T20 and ODI. And we pretty much wanted the same sort of approach. We saw some success once we had got that done. And we wanted to see that approach in Test cricket. He is still only one series into his tenure as all-format coach, and while the 27 might be the highlight, or lowlight, of that series, we have to admit that we saw substantial improvement in terms of our bowling unit. We saw even Brandon King, who is one of those players who some persons might have pigeonholed as a white-ball player, was able to show that he was up for the challenge for Test cricket. Some light there. As Daren goes on, and as we start to put some of the strategic initiatives in place, we expect that performances will be better.”
(ESPNcricinfo)
Richardson to seek help following airport arrest
American sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson says she will seek help following her arrest over allegations of domestic violence.
The 25-year-old was detained on 27 July at SeattleTacoma International Airport following an altercation with her boyfriend and fellow US athlete Christian Coleman.
A police report said footage appeared to show Coleman being shoved into a wall before Richardson threw an item at him.
Commenting on her arrest for the first time in a social media post, the Olympic gold and silver medallist said, “I’m taking this time to not only see myself but get myself a certain level of help that overall is going to reflect who I truly
am.” Coleman did not want to participate in the investigation and “declined to be a victim”, the police officer’s report stated.
Richardson was released the following day.
Richardson apologised to Coleman, saying, “I love him, and to him I can’t apologise enough.”
When the footage of the incident became public, Coleman described Richardson as “a human being and a great person”.
He told the Athletic: “She has a lot of things going on, a lot of emotions and forces going on inside of her that not only I can’t understand, but nobody can.”
Following her arrest, USA Track and Field said it was “aware of the reports” but would “not be comment-
part of the USA’s 4x100m relay team. She is also due to defend her 100m and 4x100m relay titles at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, which starts on 13 September.
(BBC Sport)
ing on this matter”.
Richardson won silver in the 100m at the Paris Olympics and gold as
Sha’Carri Richardson is a two-time Olympic medallist
A glimpse of the West Indies Academy’s interaction with Sir Viv Richards
Daren Sammy’s stint as West Indies’ Test Coach began with a crushing 3-0 defeat
The fast bowlers have been the only bright spark in Test cricket for the West Indies
THURSDAY, AUGUST 14, 2025
Box office attracts hundreds as CPL playoff & final tickets go on sale
Even with two additional ticket locations in Essequibo and Berbice, lines again wrapped around the building at 233-234 Camp Street on Wednesday morning as eager fans queued up to get their hands on Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) playoffs and final tickets.
The coveted tickets for this year’s knockout games went on sale this morning and were again met with a rush, as some patrons related that they arrived at the ticket office as early as 09:30h on Tuesday. There is also a limit on the number of playoff tickets patrons can purchase, with one person being able
to buy only 4 final tickets. Meanwhile, for Eliminator 1 and Qualifier 1, patrons can purchase up to 10 tickets, and for Qualifier 2, they can purchase up to 6 tickets.
Tickets for the Republic Bank CPL are also available at G&P Jaigobin & Son Supermarket in Tract B, Anna Regina, Essequibo
Holder relishes “new beginning” as he leads Patriots in CPL opener
The 13th edition of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) is set to get underway in St Kitts and Nevis this evening, and for the hosting Patriots there will be some new beginnings.
After finishing at the bottom of the table for two consecutive years, the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots will be looking to turn things around this season, under the leadership of West Indies all-rounder Jason Holder.
During a pre-match press conference, Holder, who comes from the Barbados Royals, addressed his new star, eager to take on the challenge of the CPL.
“Just happy to be here in a new franchise; personally, it’s a new beginning, and hopefully I can bring some great things to this franchise. They’ve obviously had success in the past, and, you know, this is just a team that wants to do really well. So, we’re looking forward to this challenge this year,” Holder shared during the press briefing.
Speaking on his departure from the Royals, Holder admitted that it was a tough decision and clarified that it had nothing to do with captaincy.
The Barbadian player explained, “Yeah, it’s always tough leaving a franchisethe only franchise you’ve played for in a competition. It wasn’t an easy decision, but I think the opportunity presented itself here; I quite liked the opportunity.
I thought at this point of my career, I wanted a new challenge as well, and you know, playing for Barbados was great, but it’s so good to feel as though I’m making a new home here in St Kitts.”
“I like what St Kitts has to offer; it attracted me here to St Kitts, so this is my new home.”
“The decision to move had nothing to do with captaincy. It was more or less just finding a new challenge or a new opportunity. The captaincy came afterwards, and when asked, I said, ‘Why not?’. But looking at my personal career, I just felt it’s something I wanted to do,” he went on to clarify.
Coast (08:30h to 17:00h) and Spreadys in Port Mourant, Berbice (08:00h to 19:00h).
While the Essequibo lo cation will sell tickets while stocks last, the Berbice out let will remain open for two days. In addition, the Amazon Warriors box office on Camp Street will be fully operational from 09:00h to 17:00h on weekdays and 09:00h to 13:00h on Saturdays.
The Republic Bank CPL bowls off today, August at Warner Park, St Kitts. The Men’s CPL will make its way to Guyana on September 6 as the anticipated, blockbuster clash between the Guyana Amazon Warriors and Trinbago Knight Riders gets the ball rolling. While the playoffs and final will be
Hoping to start on a winning note today, the all-rounder also shared fears of peaking too early in the competition.
Expressing his intention for positive leadership, Holder highlighted how important belief and confidence will be in his camp.
“We’ve just got to turn up with a good attitude and believe that we can win. If we don’t believe that we can win and each person doesn’t tick their boxes as an individual and carry out their role, then I don’t think we have a chance at winning, and it’s my job and the coaching staff’s job to really instil that belief and confidence in every individual that we have to execute their role,” Holder explained.
He went on to add, “Cricket is a team sport, but there are so many individual components to it, and I think if each individual can understand what their value is to the team and deliver, then more often than not I think we’ll win more games than we lose.”
“The first game is very important; I don’t want to downplay it. I think all the home games are very important because you want to make use of your home advantage.”
Holder further divulged, “I think if we can go through this first phase with not too much damage, you know, winning a few games, it obviously puts us in a really good position going into the deeper half of the competition. Another thing you don’t want to do is peak too early and then fade. So, I’m very confident with the team, I’m very happy with the team, and I’m very happy with the management staff. This is my first time, as I said before. Everybody’s made me feel welcomed. I haven’t had any hiccups, so I’m looking forward to a really good tournament.”
The St Kitts and Nevis Patriots will take on the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons in their first match this evening, which is set to bowl off at 19:00h.
Real Madrid have strongly rejected plans to play Villarreal’s La Liga match with Barcelona in the United States (US), saying it “sets an unacceptable precedent”.
The fixture is scheduled for 21 December at Villarreal’s Estadio de la Ceramica, but the Spanish football federation (RFEF) approved the proposal on Monday to host the game in America.
The RFEF will now seek permission from the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) to switch it to the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, which is set to host seven matches at the 2026 World Cup.
But Real Madrid have expressed their “strongest rejection of the proposal” to play the match outside Spain.
In a statement, the external club said, “If this proposal is carried out, its consequences would be so serious that they would mean a before and after for the world of football.”
Villarreal offer free travel to Miami
The Spanish Football Supporters’ Association (FASFE) has also joined Barcelona and Villarreal fan groups to make clear their
firm opposition to the proposal, warning they would “take appropriate legal action” if it went ahead.
Villarreal president Fernando Roig has promised the club’s season-ticket holders will be able to fly to Miami and watch the match free of charge.
Speaking to the club’s website, he said the US opportunity is something they “must seize”.
“We have to expand the brand of our football and of Villarreal CF,” he added.
“Many clubs agree on the need to internationalise and to look for ways to generate more revenue so we can get closer to other leagues, such as the Premier League.”
FIFA’s rules currently do not allow domestic league matches to be played abroad, but last year it set up a working group to explore the matter.
Last year, La Liga said it wanted to hold Barcelona’s meeting with Atletico de Madrid in Miami before dropping the idea because of time constraints.
Real, who have won a record 36 La Liga titles, said Villarreal playing their home fixture away from their own stadium would be “altering the competitive balance and granting an undue sporting advantage to the applicant clubs”.
Barca are scheduled to face Villarreal at the Nou
Camp on March 1, 2026.
“The integrity of the competition requires that all matches be held under the same conditions for all teams,” added Real in their statement.
“Unilaterally modifying this regime breaks the equality between contenders, compromises the legitimacy of the results and sets an unacceptable precedent that opens the door to exceptions based on interests other than strictly sporting, with a clear impact on sporting integrity and the risk of adulteration of the competition.”
The club said it had asked FIFA not to authorise the staging of the game without the prior consent of all La Liga clubs and asked UEFA to urge the RFEF to withdraw the request.
Other one-off matches, such as the Italian Super Cup and Spanish Super Cup, have been held abroad in recent years.
With the San Siro hosting the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics in February, AC Milan are hoping to play their Serie A match against Como in Perth, Australia, as the two events clash.
The plans, however, have yet to receive approval from FIFA, UEFA, Football Australia and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). (BBC Sport)
Barcelona beat Villarreal 5-1 at Estadio de la Cerámica last season
hosted in Guyana for the 4th consecutive year, the Massy Women’s CPL will also be hosted at the Guyana National Stadium, at Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) from September 6 to 17.
Fans display their freshly-bought Republic Bank CPL final tickets
Outside the Amazon Warriors box office on Wednesday morning
