Guyana Times - Thursday, June 12, 2025

Guyana building deep-water capability, capacity that C'bean nations could tap into – Pres

US issues warning to Guyanese over unlawful entry, overstays

“What we have here is a run for power...not policies to grow Guyana” – Pres

Legal challenge to constitutionallymandated PR system a “fishing expedition” – AG

Ali

EU observer mission confirmed for September 1 elections

…diplomatic note to Guyana highlights legal consequences …as Govt commits to securing as many int’l observers as possible …says PPP has “winning philosophy”

7 Guyanese deported for crimes in US – Home Affairs Ministry confirms Cocaine-in-footwear bust "In-transit passenger did not originate from Guyana" – CANU

Duplicate fingerprint issues fixed in cross-match exercise – GECOM Commissioner

Suspect, victim shot in 2 separate robberies

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, June 12 –03:55h-05:25h and Friday, June 13 – 03:55h-05:25h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, June 12 –17:10h-18:40h and Friday, June 13 – 05:10h-06:40h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Rain showers with instances of thunder are expected during the day and at night, with sunshine in the afternoon. Temperatures are expected to range between 22 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 1.34 metres and 2.68 metres.

High Tide: 17:18h reaching a maximum height of 2.42 metres.

Low Tide: 10:51h and 23:01h reaching minimum heights of 0.62 metre and 0.81 metre.

Guyana building deep-water capability, capacity that C’bean nations could tap into – Pres Ali

...as local company offering marine support services, training for O&G launched

With several countries across the Caribbean now exploring their oil and gas (O&G) resources, President Dr Irfaan Ali says that Guyana is developing the necessary capabilities and capacity that could be tapped into by its neighbours.

The Head of State made this remark on Wednesday afternoon during the launch of Orinduik Marine Services (OMS) – a locally owned company that provides Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) and diving services to the local oil and gas industry.

In addition to offering marine support services to oil companies, OMS, which is located at Lusignan on the East Coast of Demerara, is also a training facility to prepare workers for offshore employment opportunities.

According to President Ali during his feature address, the launch of this company is not only about technology transferral, but the most cutting edge and latest technology being applied in Guyana in less than a decade of operations in the O&G sector, especially ultradeep water operations.

“What we are witnessing

legislation has played a key role in accelerating the type of investment being made by OMS, as well as supporting partnerships between local and international companies.

He reminded that the role of the local content laws is not to shut out international partners, but to accelerate the growth of partnerships so that the length of time for transferring technology, knowledge, and capabilities can be shortened, while at the same time empowering Guyanese businesses and citizens.

It is for this reason, he

pointed out, that educational and training institutions in the country have zero corporate tax obligations; they are offering the technical skills that are so critically needed in the trajectory of the country's development.

“There was the deep understanding, from a policy perspective, that for us to have the investment in this knowledge transfer, we had to incentivize the system. Take it a step further; as we move forward in the next five years, we now must be able to build, in the system, incentives for

here took many, with greater capability and capacity, 30 plus years to achieve. That is what we're celebrating here today. And what we're witnessing here is an investment - and a series of investmentstaking place in our economy, that is not going to take us on a plateau of development. It is going to take us on a steep rise, long into the future,” he posited.

These investments, the Guyanese leader outlined, are not just geared towards the local ultradeep water operations but would eventually cater to regional needs. Currently, Suriname is gearing up for their first oil in 2028 offshore, while countries like Barbados and Jamaica are pushing offshore explorations.

“Who in the region has that built-in capacity and capability now to take the lead? It's not Trinidad and Tobago; it is Guyana that is developing that capability and capacity for deep and ultradeep - and that did not happen by accident,” the Head of State noted.

According to President Ali, Guyana’s local content

countries that are going to invest in innovation, technology, and the high-skilled areas that will bring higher-paying jobs and create higher-paying opportunities. That is the next phase, and this company is positioning itself well,” the president stated.

The Head of State went onto link his administration’s sound policy-making to these types of development and investments that have advanced and supported Guyana’s diversified economy.

“This,” he added, “is not in a single barrel method. But understanding what is meant truly by diversification and what is meant by investment, to create a diversified portfolio of growth, development and prosperity – and that is what we are witnessing here today.”

“The mandate is not to develop laws for today, but to develop these laws and administrative mechanism for 30-40 years ahead of our time, because we are not in this just to launch and open these facilities. We're in this to be a major competitor globally, and wherever the opportunities are, I want Guyanese companies to be competing for these opportunities – whether in Europe, whether in the Western Hemisphere – wherever they are. We are building the most skilled human capital that will go after every global opportunity. We are not building a local operation. We are building local companies with the best international partners to go after every world class opportunity. Watch out for Guyana, we are coming after every opportunity,” President Ali declared.

Newly-launched OMS offers support services to oil companies and offshore training

President Dr Irfaan Ali delivering remarks

Editor: Tusika Martin

News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761

Marketing: 231-8064Accounts: 225-6707

Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Industrial Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown

Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

Preparing for the future & Guyana’s youth

Guyana stands on the threshold of economic transformation. The message delivered by Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo at Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) graduation ceremony on Tuesday was timely and significant for both the over 2000 graduates in attendance and the broader national community. His remarks serve as a call for young professionals to harness the opportunities being unlocked by the country’s rapidly-evolving economic landscape.

Over the past decade, Guyana’s development trajectory has been reshaped by the advent of the oil and gas sector. However, what sets the current phase apart is the deliberate policy direction to ensure this growth is inclusive, diversified, and future-focused. The Vice President’s announcement of a forthcoming development bank offering zero-interest financing to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) is a commendable step in this direction. This initiative could potentially dismantle a long-standing barrier to entrepreneurship – access to affordable capital, while promoting a more active Private Sector, led by a new generation of Guyanese innovators.

Beyond finance, the policy thrust outlined by Jagdeo demonstrates a clear intent to broaden the country’s economic base. The deliberate positioning of key sectors such as environment, hospitality, and digital services alongside oil and gas is a recognition that long-term sustainability demands diversification. With more than 10,000 Guyanese now working in the oil and gas industry and over US$700 million in procurement opportunities accessed by local companies, the framework for local empowerment is not theoretical, it is already producing tangible benefits.

Moreover, the announced expansion of the Local Content Law to cover additional sectors signals a widening of the net of opportunity. This move could catalyse job creation in emerging areas while further embedding national ownership in the development process. Such policy mechanisms, when paired with strategic education initiatives like the GOAL scholarship programme, create an enabling environment for meaningful upward mobility.

The significance of the GOAL programme itself must not be overlooked. Initially conceived as a campaign promise to deliver 20,000 online scholarships, it has exceeded expectations with over 39,000 scholarships awarded. This represents the fulfilment of a political commitment and the empowerment of a generation that is better equipped to lead Guyana into the future. The more than 500 individuals who earned master’s degrees this year are all potential leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers.

However, the Vice President’s caution to graduates not to rely solely on Government employment should be taken seriously. In a modern economy, the public sector alone cannot absorb the full talent pool of graduates. The emphasis on creating Guyanese-owned companies to provide outsourced services to the State emphasises a shift toward a more entrepreneurial development model. This represents a critical opportunity, but it also places a responsibility on young professionals to be proactive, innovative, and prepared.

Financial literacy and empowerment, which Jagdeo flagged as major policy areas for the Government’s next term, are essential pillars of this new economic model. In an environment where investment opportunities will be more democratised, underwritten by the State to minimise risk, citizens must be equipped with the tools and understanding to make informed decisions. Building this capacity at the grassroots level will be key to ensuring that prosperity is not concentrated in the hands of a few, but shared across the population.

As Guyana navigates this phase of accelerated growth, it is critical that policy, education, and opportunity remain aligned. The Vice President's vision offers a roadmap, but its realisation depends on execution and on the will of citizens, especially the youth, to step up to the challenge. The transition to a knowledge-based, service-driven, and entrepreneurially vibrant economy is within reach, but only if supported by a culture of innovation, accountability, and sustained effort.

Guyana is entering a decisive chapter. The next generation of Guyanese professionals, armed with education, ambition, and state support, must now lead that charge.

Why Michael Carrington is a PEP under

Guyana’s

Law – and why that matters

Dear Editor, Western Union is again under fire. This time for what has been described as “disgraceful treatment” of Mr. Michael Carrington, Vice Chairman of the Alliance for Change (AFC). In an emotional letter published on June 6, Mr. Carrington argues that he is wrongly treated as a politically exposed person (PEP). I sympathize with his frustration. However, we must separate emotion from law.

First, let me be clear. I have written in past about some Western Union’s practices which do not mitigate risk, but give the appearance of compliance with AML guidance. Now, I will explain why, under Guyana’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) guidance and the AML/ CFT Act, Mr. Carrington remains a PEP—and why the public deserves clarity. In this regard, if your name is among the top 65 on the list of 125 candidates that parties will field for September 1, you should read this.

1. Who is a PEP under the AML/CFT Act?

A politically exposed person is someone who is, or has been, entrusted with a prominent public function—such as a Member of Parliament (MP)—as well as their family members and close associates.

More importantly, Section 2 of Guyana’s AML/CFT Act 2009 defines a PEP as:

“…including individuals who are, or have been, entrusted domestically or by a foreign country with prominent public functions…and includes their family members and close associates.”

There is no automatic delisting after a set period under the Act. The “three-year” period Mr. Carrington refers to is derived from general international guidance, not hard Guyanese law. It should be noted that the EU, UK, and Canada do not have a short look-back period.

2. FIU Guidance is clear: party executives can be PEPs

The Financial Intelligence Unit of Guyana (FIU-GY) issued a PEP Guidance Note (2017) that extends the PEP classification to persons in senior positions within political parties, particularly where:

“…they are able to influence decisions, access public resources, or are active in political advocacy.”

Mr. Carrington is not only a former Member of Parliament but is now the Vice Chairman of an active political party. He is a national political figure. By definition, he meets the test for being a domestic PEP. In fact, global FATF standards—on which our law is based—specifically warn against removing PEP status solely based on time out of formal public office when other risk factors may remain.

3. PEP status is not about guilt –it is about risk awareness.

Being classified as a PEP is not an accusation of wrongdoing. It is not political discrimination. It is a legal safeguard to ensure enhanced monitoring of financial activity associated with public influence. This isn’t the view of Guyana’s FIU only; this is a global position.

Global financial institutions— Western Union included—are required to apply enhanced due diligence to transactions involving PEPs. The PEP designation is driven not only by national law but also by the international compliance obligations Western Union must observe. These are not decisions made by the FIU or by the Guyana government to target an individual—they are global rules to protect the system from misuse. Western Union is particularly sensitive to this because they have been fined millions of US dollars for AML lapses.

4. Why hasn’t the flag been removed?

Mr. Carrington argues that Western Union promised to “remove” him from the system. That was unfortunate wording. What financial institutions can do is periodically reassess PEP risk, but they cannot simply delete a valid PEP record if the person continues in political influence.

As vice chairman of a major political party involved in active national advocacy, Mr. Carrington may still fit the profile Western Union must monitor under their AML/CFT obligations, which go beyond Guyana’s laws.

5. The real risk: politicizing compliance

Finally, I caution all sides not to politicize this issue. The PEP framework protects all Guyanese from money laundering and corruption risks—not just from current officeholders, but also those with influence in political life.

Mr. Carrington’s case shows the need for better public education on what PEP really means and how the law works. But it does not show any legal violation by Western Union or collusion by the FIU.

I urge Mr. Carrington and the public to distinguish between the feelings of personal inconvenience and the legal reality of PEP obligations.

We can all sympathize with the hardship of a delayed transaction. But we must also uphold the integrity of our AML/CFT system. A vice chairman of a political party remains a domestic PEP under both the spirit and letter of the law.

Respectfully,

Theon Alleyne Compliance and Governance Consultant Member of the Association of Certified Sanctions Specialists (ACSS)

Education Minister Priya Manickchand having a “hot meal” lunch with the children of Shea Village, Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo). Thousands of children have been benefiting from the meals served in schools funded by the Government through the Education Ministry (Priya Manickchand photo)

From dictatorship to democracy to chaos?

Dear Editor, Attorney General Anil Nandlall’s recent statement reaffirming that only candidates on a party list can contest Guyana’s presidency is not just a technical clarification; it is a line in the sand. A line that separates constitutional order from opportunistic chaos.

Let me be clear, I am not writing this letter as a supporter of the PPP/C. I am writing as someone who lived through the dictatorship and political decay of the pre-1992 era. I remember what it meant to have no say, no vote, no voice. I remember when elections were charades and public institutions served only a single ruling clique. That is why I feel compelled to applaud the Attorney General’s firm and princi

Let’s not

pled stance. He is right to defend the Constitution, and all Guyanese, regardless of party affiliation, should rally to that defence.

In his statement, the Attorney General made clear that the Constitution and the Representation of the People Act (ROPA) require presidential candidates to come from an approved party list. This isn’t some obscure legal footnote. This has been the bedrock of our electoral system since independence, and certainly since our hard-fought return to democracy in 1992. It is a system designed to prevent exactly what we’re seeing now, the sudden attempt by an ambitious individual to upend the rules and reshape them for personal gain.

throw away our future

This isn’t about personalities, it’s about precedent. If someone like Azruddin Mohamed, or any other wealthy figure, can unilaterally demand the right to run for president without going through the democratic process of building a party, presenting a platform, and submitting to internal accountability, then we are opening the door to chaos.

It is deeply troubling that the same voices demanding an independent bid frame it as democratic. Let’s be honest, this is not about expanding democracy. It’s about sidestepping it. Real democracy has rules. It has processes. It has structures to ensure stability, transparency, and national cohesion. Mohamed and his allies would rather burn that

house down than build within it.

Let’s also be clear about this: no one is barring Mohamed from running. He has every right to put himself forward. But he must follow the law, like everyone else. The rules are there for a reason. He has until the 14th of July to demonstrate that he has genuine support, not just money and spectacle. And if, as some claim, he is buying signatures or manipulating the process, the truth will come out. It always does.

We’ve seen this before. Venezuela, our neighbour and once a vibrant democracy, allowed a convicted criminal to contest their presidency. His name was Hugo Chavez. He had charm, money, and a message of revolution. He

won, and Venezuela lost everything. Two decades later, their economy is in ruins, millions have fled, and democracy is a distant memory. Do we really want to open that door?

Guyana’s strength today is that we are not that. We are a country governed by law, and by a constitution that, while imperfect, protects us from exactly this kind of populist shortcut. Our electoral system may be complex, but it is representative. It is built to prevent the concentration of power in one man’s hands, and that’s a feature, not a flaw.

We want to be like Singapore, like South Korea, nations that developed not through chaos or charisma, but through institutional strength and discipline. Do you think

Singapore would allow someone to just announce a presidential candidacy on Facebook? Do you think South Korea’s courts would tolerate it? Of course not. And that’s why their economies and democracies have grown stronger, not weaker.

This is a test for us. Not just a legal test, but a civic one. Will we defend our constitution even when it’s inconvenient for some? Will we stand up for institutions when others want to bulldoze them?

I urge all Guyanese, especially those who suffered under dictatorship, to speak up. The Attorney General has drawn the line. Let us stand behind it.

Yours sincerely, Mahadeo Passaud

Are GECOM Opposition Commissioners "hands clean?"

Dear Editor, The question, ‘Are you man or mouse?’ is often posed to exemplify bravery aligned to courage, contrary to, timidity associated with fear. What makes a man a man is waxed in John Steinbeck’s 1937 novel, “Of Mice and Men.”

“Three Blind Mice” was cradled by Agatha Christie in 1947 as a play when Queen Mary requested one of her favourite writers to pen a new story for her 80th birthday. In 1948, as a twisted tale, it was published in a book exploring themes of isolation, deception and the fragility of trust within a confined space.

In the famous 007 series, the first James Bond starring Sean Connery, filmed the movie “Dr No,” in Jamaica. The plot screens an entertaining scene with three blind men enacting three blind mice. The background music features the song “Kingston Calypso,” which is a calypso version of the nursery rhyme “Three Blind Mice,” performed by Byron Lee and The Dragonaires. Needless to say, the men pretended to be blind in order to achieve their deadly motive!

The Opposition Commissioners sitting on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), comprise of three crafty, cunning and calculating men, namely, Vincent

Alexander, Desmond Trotman and Robert Corbin, all PNC proteges from dictator Burnham’s belly.

They are all already burnout as they ceremoniously, customarily and callously continue to walk out, as expected, from GECOM’s meetings, beaten, battered and bruised. Advancing on fishing expeditions, they are laying the foundation to hold this nation at ransom with Guyanese as hostage while they attempt to place their knees on GECOM’s neck.

Vincent Alexander once wrote, “I hope their hands are clean. Let the chips fall where they may,” in a Kaieteur News letter dated 23rd March, 2016. This is the same Vincent Alexander who in April 2025 at the 2nd meeting of the 4th Session of the Permanent Forum on People of African Descent (PFPAD4), organized by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), claimed that, the African Guyanese community “has been systematically marginalized, and remains disproportionately at the bottom of the economic and social order.” He was speaking as Chairman and on behalf of the International Decade for People of African Descent.

Crying and claiming that apartheid exists in Guyana

under the PPP/C administration without presenting an iota of substantial, significant or soul-searching truth, behind his back, has he been laughed, mocked and ignored by the United Nations, the White House, CARICOM, Africa and by the invited American delegation chosen to come “discover for themselves?”

Ironically, it was the PNC who manufactured the formation of a private company called IDPADA-G and channelled money to the fund in the vicinity of $100M per year, with “little or nothing to show for it.”

The organization received some half a billion dollars over the years with the greater portion spent on administrative expenses and only a meagre percent spent on projects benefiting Afro Guyanese. The members of that organization have been accused of “failing AfroGuyanese… but they are living the good life...”

In the 2020 General and Regional Elections, Alexander did not find Lowenfield’s proposal for his 156 days to recount the votes “unfounded, ridiculous, and malicious.”

The other gentleman, Desmond Trotman, was sworn in as an Opposition Commissioner. He joined GECOM in 2017 as a “Guyanese first” and encouraged fellow commissioners not to think along

party lines.

Desmond Trotman supported Granger’s violation of the constitution in Granger’s unilateral appointment of Justice Patterson as GECOM chair. He voted in GECOM against the contract renewal of Vishnu Persaud, Deputy Chief Election Officer, in favour of Roxanne Myers and Charles Corbin.

He never owned up to Mingo’s fraudulent attempt to rig the 2020 election result with fictitious numbers. He also voted for GECOM to accept Lowenfield’s false report riddled with inaccurate figures to forge a declaration in favour of Granger’s victory.

Former President Granger had said of him, “My judgment prevails; Mr. Trotman is the fittest person… You can’t fake experience.” Trotman swore that “he will never be involved in election rigging!”

As an executive of the five-man WPA, he joined hands with the PNC, the finger of Burnham, who was the acclaimed intellectual architect, as an instrument to orchestrate the assassination of the founder of the WPA. As a Guyanese, his finger is stained with the colour red.

These three men of variable stature had to acknowledge the fact that the African Prosperity Network had bestowed President

Irfaan Ali with its African Global Leadership Award.

The African banking institutions are financing investments in Guyana. The African nations are embracing the leadership of President Irfaan Ali. Will the three opposition commissioners remain impartial and execute their duties with honesty, integrity, and justice?

Yours respectfully, Jai Lall

Changing improper fractions to mixed numbers

In a fraction, the number on the bottom is the denominator. The denominator tells what units the whole is divided into. The number on the top is the numerator. It tells how many of those units there are.

When the numerator is the same as the denominator, a fraction is equal to 1. When the numerator is greater than the denominator, a fraction is equal to more than 1. This is called an improper fraction. Sometimes, it is easier to perform a calculation when you change an improper fraction into a mixed number, part whole number and part fraction. These are mixed numbers:

To change an improper fraction to a mixed number, divide the numerator by the denominator. The quotient is the whole number part. If there is a remainder, that becomes the fraction part. Simply use the remainder as the numerator and keep the original denominator.

Example:

By Walt

Change to a mixed number

Step 1: Divide the numerator by the denominator. 12 ÷ 5 = 2, and remainder of 2

Step 2: The quotient becomes the whole number and the remainder becomes the fraction.

Exercises: Change to mixed numbers

Houses and rooms are full of perfumes, the shelves are crowded with perfumes, I breathe fragrance myself and know it The distillation intoxicate me also, but I shall not let it.

The atmosphere is not a perfume, it has no taste of the distillation, it is odorless, It is for my mouth forever, I am in love with it, I will go to the bank by the wood and become undisguised and naked, I am mad for it to be in contact with me.

The smoke of my own breath, Echoes, ripples, buzz’d whispers, loveroot, silk-thread, crotch and vine, My respiration and inspiration, the beating of my heart, the passing of blood and air through my lungs, The sniff of green leaves and dry leaves, and of the shore and dark-color’d sea-rocks, and of hay in the barn, The sound of the belch’d words of my voice loos’d to the eddies of the wind, A few light kisses, a few embraces, a reaching around of arms, The play of shine and shade on the trees as the supple boughs wag, The delight alone or in the rush of the streets, or along the fields and hill-sides, The feeling of health, the fullnoon trill, the song of me rising from bed and meeting the sun.

To be continued

Former APNU/AFC Vice President

endorses President Ali for 2nd term

…highlights neglect, internal fight, struggle for leadership under APNU/AFC

Former Vice President and Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Minister under the A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government, Sydney Allicock, has thrown his support behind President Irfaan Ali and the ruling People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) for a second term in office.

Allicock, an Indigenous leader and long-time member of the Guyana Action Party (GAP), a member of the APNU coalition, delivered a scathing indictment

of the coalition’s internal dysfunction while expressing hope in the leadership and developmental agenda of the current administration.

On Wednesday, Allicock revealed deep frustration with the coalition’s failure to present a united, viable alternative ahead of the upcoming general elections.

“When we started under Mr Granger, we were all-inclusive. We knew that we had a voice. But after we were voted out, we never could have come together,” Allicock stated, citing a per-

sistent “internal fight and struggle for leadership and power” that has plagued the APNU/AFC alliance.

Allicock noted that despite efforts at unity, “everybody wants to be president”, a mindset he argues has crippled the Opposition's ability to meaningfully prepare for the 2025 elections. Meetings with the AFC and People’s National Congress (PNC) factions yielded little more than political grandstanding, he said, leaving smaller parties like GAP sidelined and demoralised.

Endorsing progress

Breaking with his political past, Allicock made it clear that his endorsement of President Ali stemmed not from partisan convenience but from a vision for national unity and responsible leadership.

“I would like to see Guyana moving forward. And in the present state, I see if President Ali could be given the chance, much more could be achieved,” he said.

He emphasised the need for a sober national conversation around leadership, unity, and development –

one rooted in the proper use of national resources and inclusive governance.

Tangible support

Meanwhile, when asked what in the Government’s agenda impressed him most, Allicock pointed to tangible support in Indigenous communities, including transportation, employment opportunities, and improved access to services.

He acknowledged that while more needed to be done, these efforts reflected a seriousness in governance that has not gone unnoticed among Indigenous populations.

“Government can only do so much. You have to now take the bull by the horns and use that as a platform to be better off,” he said, calling for accountability and active participation from citizens.

Allicock is among several Opposition officials who have thrown their support behind President Ali for the September 1 General and Regional Elections.

Among those persons who have recently come forward to endorse the PPP are former People’s National

Congress (PNC) General Secretary and Opposition parliamentarian Geeta Chandan-Edmond; AFC Regional Councillor Ismail Muhammad-Al-Cush, and AFC Region Seven Division Chairman David Daniels.

Additionally, Regional Vice Chairman for Region Four and member of the PNC, Samuel Sandy has endorsed the PPP. He joined Executive Member of the PNCR and Region Four Chairman Daniel Seeram, who also endorsed President Ali for a second term.

Former PNCR Central Executive member, Dr Richard Van West-Charles said he believed that President Ali was the leader Guyana needed now. Dr Van West-Charles is the son-in-law of late President and founder of the PNC, Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham.

In April, former PNC member Thandi McAllister also threw her support behind the PPP/C.

In 2023, Lance Smith, former General Secretary of the Guyana Youth and Student Movement (GYSM), the youth arm

of the PNCR, and former Georgetown Mayor and longstanding PNC member, Patricia Chase-Green broke ties with the PNC and joined the PPP/C to contest the Local Government Elections.

Additionally, leaders of smaller parties –The Citizenship Initiative (TCI) – Shaz Ally; The New Movement (TNM) Dr Asha Kissoon, and the Liberty and Justice Party (LJP) Lenox Shuman – have also joined the PPP/C ahead of the 2025 General and Regional Elections.

Legal challenge to constitutionally-mandated PR system a “fishing expedition” – AG

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall has dismissed as “fishing expeditions” the recent legal action filed which challenges the Proportional Representation (PR) electoral system, which is outlined in the Constitution of Guyana.

The legal challenges were mounted by Christopher Ram and Vishnu Bandhu, but according to Nandlall, he believes they are “surrogates” for a presidential aspirant “who may be unsure that he will be able to at-

tract persons to be on a list for him to contest the elections in accordance with the Constitution”.

Speaking during his programme “Issues in the News” on Tuesday evening, Nandlall revealed that Ram and Bandhu are asking the court to “invalidate the electoral process and to invalidate sections of the Representation of the People Act (RoPA), because, according to them, it does not allow an individual to contest the elections”.

Nandlall pointed out that the system of PR

is enshrined within the Constitution of Guyana, the supreme law of any democracy.

He explained that from 1953, Guyana used the firstpast-the-post electoral system but in 1964, this was changed to PR.

Since 1964, this PR system went through many modifications, particularly from 1999-2000 during the constitutional reform process where citizens were widely consulted.

Noting that while the citizens made many alterations to the PR system,

“they kept in the main the basic structure of the PR system”, Nandlall said.

“We’ve had four elections since 2000 under this system. No one challenged it until now. Someone suddenly wakes up with money and decides to change the electoral system through the courts?” the Attorney General questioned.

AG Nandlall explained

that under the PR system, “the presidential candidate of the list that receives the most votes at that elections shall be deemed to be the president.

“That is the system we have. Every country has its own system that is established in the constitution, and the RoPA and National Registration Act add flesh to that skeleton and they es-

tablished electoral machinery based upon the constitutional prescriptions.”

In this regard, he deemed the legal challenges as “fishing expeditions”.

“We reject frivolous lawsuits from those who cannot gather the public support needed to contest through proper channels,” Nandlall added.

Former APNU/AFC Vice President and Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Minister Sydney Allicock

President Dr Irfaan Ali

Cocaine-in-footwear bust

“In-transit passenger did not originate from Guyana” – CANU

One day after reports surfaced that Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers arrested a passenger from Guyana with 3.5 kilograms (kg) of cocaine hidden inside his shoes at Pearson Airport in Canada, the Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) stated that the drugs did not originate from Guyana.

The drug enforcement unit, in a media-issued release, stated, “The Customs Anti Narcotic Unit wishes to inform the general public that the recent seizure of cocaine in footwear which occurred in Canada on May 26, 2025 did not originate from Guyana.”

CANU further confirmed that the passenger in question boarded Caribbean Airlines flight BW 616 in Trinidad as an in-transit passenger with Canada as his final destination.

leased, was handed over to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) along with the drugs.

“The cocaine was found using contraband detection technology.” The CBSA told a news outlet.

“Some of the detection technology employed by the CBSA includes ion mobility spectrometry, X-rays and Narcotic Identification Kits. These tools, in combination with the officer’s knowledge, experience and training, enable successful enforcement actions.”

Dealing with… …our (Trump) deportees

Well, the other foot had to drop sooner or later, innit?? In this case, your Eyewitness is talking about the hard line the Trump Administration – actually Trump himself! – has taken to rid their country of illegal immigrants. We’d been informed by their Secretary of State himself – “little Marco” who’d stooped low to conquer Trump’s confidence! – that we’d have to take back our share of American undesirables. Our Government agreed fervently – not so much because of our responsibilities to our citizens as touted – but out of an abundance of caution not to p*ss off Trump!!

“Immigration records indicate that the passenger did not disembark the flight when it landed in Guyana.” the release added.

It was reported that the cocaine, with a street value of CA$437,000, was discovered in several pairs of shoes. The passenger, whose name was not re -

The CBSA said they couldn’t disclose the suspect’s citizenship, as “an individual’s border and immigration information are considered private and protected by the Privacy Act.”

But after all the Sturm and Drang about the 11 millionplus illegals who’d be swooped up like in a modern-day Rapture and dropped in one fell swoop into the heavens of their original homelands, the “returnees” are being sent back in dribs and drabs. Our first drib amounted to seven persons with criminal records in the US – ranging from molestation of a minor and sexual assault to murder and disorderly conduct. So with all the hoopla about innocent immigrant residents being hauled in, arrested and summarily expelled it looks like – in our case at least – the reports have been greatly exaggerated!!

From what was released quite early in the day about the numbers of immigrant offenders from across the world on the American books, it was stated that 1236 were from Guyana. With all the scare stories of ICE raids and pitched battles between protesters and US Marines and National Guardsmen, most of the deportations –including ours – are from these low-hanging fruits!! Looks like Trump has reversed Teddy Roosevelt’s dictum into “Talk loudly and carry a small stick”!!

Anyhow, now that we’ve received our not so magnificent seven into our – and their – country, what are we gonna do?? Well about a decade ago, your Eyewitness remembers that – faced with some convicted US deportees who’d – not surprisingly – reverted to their criminal ways – the authorities had placed regulations on the books that allowed the Police to place the deportees on parole. Meaning they had to report at specified times to specified police stations so they could be monitored. Your Eyewitness notes that the deportees were taken to CID headquarters and he suggests the parole programme be reinstituted AT ONCE.

After all, these deportees’ criminal convictions range from molestation of a minor and sexual assault to murder and disorderly conduct. And we know from our experiences that – especially with the former - -the crime becomes ingrained. Our crime rates are already too high – and we certainly don’t need no foreign techniques being introduced!!

After all, we gotta have a system in place to deal with the other 1229 criminals coming down the chute!!

…unemployment

For years, there’s been a great focus on our unemployment rate. And why not? Isn’t it when folks have jobs they earn wages and salaries, this allows them to satisfy their needs – and hopefully most of their wants? Well, while that might very well be so, unemployment itself is a bit more complicated – and this has been brought to the fore recently.

“Unemployment” actually “refers to a situation where a person actively searches for employment, but is unable to find work.” The key point is not that some people ain’t working – and so, “unemployed”, but they must actually be LOOKING for a job!! So, in Guyana, when it’s pointed out that there are thousands and thousands of jobs available – but no one’s willing to take them, we gotta accept the Government’s and Private Sector’s assertion that we don’t have an “unemployment” problem!!

And it’s not just the odd jobs that go begging. Take for example, there’s a shortage of cane-cutters – while some are earning $32,000 DAILY!!

…racist politicians

After a WPA member – on a party platform – called Indian Guyanese ancestors the scum of India who don’t deserve Guyana’s citizenship, PNC Indian members who challenged that were dubbed “slave catchers”!! And PNC leader Norton supports that!!

The shoes in which the cocaine was discovered

US issues warning to Guyanese over unlawful entry, overstays

…diplomatic note to Guyana highlights legal consequences

As part of the widespread crackdown on illegal immigrants, the United States Government has issued a Diplomatic Note to Guyana, warning of the legal consequences for Guyanese who attempt to unlawfully enter or remain in the US.

In an advisory on Wednesday, the Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ministry indicated that it received an official Diplomatic Note from the US Government, advising of strict enforcement measures and legal consequences for individuals who attempt to enter or remain in that country unlawfully.

This Diplomatic Note follows the reinstatement and expansion of several immigration enforcement

policies by US President, Donald Trump. It stated that while the US continues to welcome legitimate and legal travellers, the Secretary of State has explicitly outlined that the Government prioritises the prosecution of offenses for illegal entry and illegal presence in the United States, as well as criminal offences by foreign nationals.

To this end, the Foreign Ministry encouraged Guyanese citizens to pursue legal and authorised avenues for migration, employment, education, and travel to the United States. It further “strongly advised” Guyanese currently residing in the US illegally to depart immediately.

“Guyanese nation-

als who enter the United States of America without proper documentation or who overstay their periods of authorised entry or fail to respect the terms of their admission will be subject to the full extent of US immigration law, including but not limited to: arrest, prosecution and imprisonment or heavy fines,” the ministry cautioned.

The advisory further stated, “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation strongly urges all Guyanese nationals to comply fully with the immigration laws and regulations of the United States of America.”

On Tuesday, seven Guyanese – six men and one woman – were deported from the US.

However, while no official information about their identities and reason(s) for their deportation were available, it is believed that these cases are primarily immigration related, including overstaying their visas.

The seven Guyanese arrived at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) via a chartered flight on Tuesday and, according to sources, were received by members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and immigration officials.

Reports are that the chartered aircraft had made several stops in other countries before landing in Guyana, and is expected to make two other stops before heading back to the US.

The deportees were

transported to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) headquarters in Georgetown, where they are currently being processed and will be eventually released. This process can take days, according to the source.

Back in February, US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, had assured that there will be no mass deportation of Guyanese who might be illegal in the

US - noting, however, that routine deportations that have been ongoing for decades will continue.

Meanwhile, in January, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo assured that any Guyanese deported from the US will be accepted when they returned home. He explained that there would be verification that the persons are indeed Guyanese, to avoid other nationalities being deported to Guyana.

The chartered plane at CJIA that arrived with the deportees on Tuesday

EU observer mission confirmed for September 1 elections

…as Govt commits to securing as many int’l observers as possible

The European Union (EU) will deploy an observer mission ahead of the September 1 General and Regional Elections, following the signing of an agreement with the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to facilitate the process.

Signing the Administrative Arrangement for the European Union Elections Observation Mission (EUEOM) was EU Ambassador to Guyana Rene van Nes and GECOM Chairperson, Retired Justice Claudette Singh. Also in attendance was Ambassador Elisabeth Harper of the Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ministry.

“The Administrative Arrangement establishes the framework for the EUEOM’s deployment and operation in Guyana for the September 1, 2025 General and Regional Elections,” a statement said following the signing.

The signing of this document comes even as the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government has assured it will pull out all the stops to ensure as many reputable international observer missions as possible can be invited to observe the upcoming polls.

During his recent pro -

gramme of “Issues in the News”, Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall emphasised that the PPP/C Administration subscribes to electoral transparency and accountability.

Nandlall also welcomed the announcement that the Carter Center, which was founded by the late former US President Jimmy Carter, will be sending an observer team to Guyana for the September 1 elections.

“The People’s Progressive Party fought

28 years to get observers to come here, because for 28 years the PNC rigged the elections and they did not want observers to be present and they blocked observers out,” the AG said.

“It’s only in 1992 after 28 years of being in the trenches and struggles that one of the things that we won was the right to invite international observers to come and observe the elections and every year since then, we have had that.”

Nandlall also noted that in 2020, the then People’s National Congress (PNC)-

7 Guyanese deported for crimes in US – Home Affairs Ministry confirms

The Home Affairs Ministry has confirmed the recent deportation of seven Guyanese from the United States in connection with a range of criminal offences.

According to a statement issued by the ministry, the offences include one case of grand larceny, assault, two counts of sexual assault aggravated assault, illegal entry, and assault and two counts of domestic violence.

In light of the deportations, the ministry used the opportunity to remind Guyanese of the serious legal consequences that can result from engaging in unlawful conduct or violating immigration laws while residing abroad.

“Citizens are strongly urged to pursue only legal and authorised channels for migration, employment, education, and travel,” the ministry said in a state -

ment.

“Engaging in criminal activity or attempting to enter or remain in another country illegally may result in arrest, imprisonment, and eventual deportation.” the statement said. It emphasized its ongoing commitment to public safety, national security, and the responsible movement of citizens across borders. The ministry also reiterated its continued collaboration with international partners to manage migration and law enforcement issues in the best interest of Guyana and its people.

The seven Guyanese arrived on a chartered aircraft which made several stops in other countries before landing in Guyana.

Back in February, US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, assured that there will be no mass deportation of Guyanese who might be illegal in the

US - noting, however, that routine deportations that have been ongoing for decades will continue.

In January, Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo assured that any Guyanese deported from the US will be accepted home. His comments were in response to questions from the media, relating to the plans by the US to step up the policing of illegal immigration in cities with significant migrant populations.

“Yes, we will take our people back if they’re deported… if they’re Guyanese, then we don’t have a choice but to take them back.” Jagdeo said during his weekly press conference.

He explained that there will be verification that the persons are indeed Guyanese to avoid other nationalities being deported to Guyana.

led A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Administration blocked international observers from the recount exercise, which began some two months after the March 2 polls. The Attorney General emphasised that the presence of observer missions was important to certify the elections as free, fair and democratic.

“In 2020, remember it was during the COVID [pandemic] and by their shenanigans, they delayed

the declaration of the results, when the Carter Center and the other observer teams left, they blocked them from attending the recount, which took place some two months after,” Nandlall said.

“We know who the electoral miscreants are and we know what their capabilities, tendencies and proclivities are. So, the more the observer teams, the safer the electoral process,” the Attorney General added.

During his speech at the 59th Independence Flag-Raising ceremony at Albion, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), on Sunday night, President Dr Irfaan Ali had announced that the official date for the 2025 General and Regional Elections will be September

1, 2025. He had noted that he reached this decision following consultation with the GECOM Chairperson, on the agency’s readiness. Following his announcement, several Opposition figures have endorsed the PPP/C, including The Citizenship Initiative (TCI) founder Shazam Ally; Region Four Chairman Daniel Seeram; APNU Member of Parliament, Geeta Chandan-Edmond; former PNC Executive, Dr Richard Van West-Charles and former Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Minister and Vice President under the coalition government, Sydney Allicock.

GECOM has already approved a workplan for the upcoming elections. Nomination Day has been set for July 14.

From left: EU Ambassador to Guyana, Rene van Nes; GECOM Chairperson, Retired Justice Claudette Singh and Ambassador Elisabeth Harper

Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC

APNU-AFC failed coalition bid

“What we have

here

is

a run for power... not policies to grow Guyana” – Pres Ali

…says PPP has “winning philosophy”

President Dr Irfaan Ali, who will be returning as the presidential candidate on the ruling People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) ticket at the September 1, 2025 elections, says that the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC) Opposition parties are too focused on grabbing power and not concerned about Guyana’s best interest.

The Head of State made these remarks on the sidelines of an event on Wednesday, where he was questioned by reporters about the current fallout between the two main Opposition parties.

Negotiations between APNU and the AFC for a possible coalition formally broke down with both parties announcing that they would contest the elections independently but are still open to talks. Members from the two parties have since publicly expressed their frustration over the situation –something which President Ali was asked about during an interview with reporters on Wednesday afternoon.

According to the Head of State, the internal discord between APNU and the AFC is not coalition politics but a bargaining for power.

“So, first of all, what we

have here is a run for power,” Ali posited.

“It is clear from all the forces that are working that their only objective is to remove the People’s Progressive Party/Civic from Government, not about policies to grow Guyana, to expand our horizon, to provide jobs and provide opportunity – [that is] their entire purpose. They cannot come up with a cohesive plan, they cannot come up with a structural strategy that would enable development of Guyana.”

It is for this reason that President Ali says many of the Opposition members have been endorsing the PPP/C for a second term in office at the upcoming polls.

Of recent, there has been a mass exodus of Opposition members – from both APNU and the AFC – breaking ranks and joining the PPP/C. According to the Guyanese Leader, this is because of development that they are seeing under the current ruling Administration.

According to Ali, the PPP/C has worked hard over the past five years to not just create the policies and programmes that allow Guyana and its people to prosper but also to become a unifying force that binds citizens together.

“So many persons [are] gravitating to the People’s Progressive Party/Civic because of a philosophy, because of the policies, because of the results they have seen. You see people can compare what they were getting in five years [under the coalition and] what they were supporting… [with] what happened in these five years. And they can make analytical, clear decision as to who has the best interest, as to who was able to move Guyana forward, and they are able to make that comparison, and that is what is driving the energy. And these are people who want to be part of a better Guyana, and we welcome them,” he stated.

National front

On this note, the Head of State was asked about longstanding PPP supporters who may be threatened by this influx of ‘outsiders’ coming to benefit from the spoils without having done any of the work – something which he dismissed.

“I don’t know that this is a widespread view. I know that the PPP philosophy has always been about building a national front building, and bringing people of every class, every race, every religion, together. And the

PPP is demonstrating this. And everyone who is a PPP member, everyone who embraces the philosophy of the People’s Progressive Party, is embracing a philosophy that is national in nature, a philosophy that is inclusive in nature, a philosophy that is unifying, a philosophy that puts Guyana first, a philosophy that sees no difference between us. And that is why that philosophy is winning …and that philosophy will continue to win,” the presi-

dent declared.

Only last week, PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo made it clear that the growing number of persons in the Opposition camp who are endorsing the governing party and President Ali have expressed an interest in working to help develop Guyana. He rejected claims that these individuals were promised positions when the PPP wins the upcoming elections, noting that even the current

Ministers do not know if they would be returning to their offices after the September 1 polls.

“No one who came to us has been offered anything,” Jagdeo explained, noting that unlike the Opposition political parties, the PPP does not spend time discussing ‘positions’ but rather focuses its discourse on policies and strategies that can contribute to the development of the country.

Among those persons who have recently come forward to endorse the PPP are former People’s National Congress (PNC) General Secretary and Opposition parliamentarian Geeta Chandan-Edmond; AFC Regional Councillor Ismail Muhammad-Al-Cush, and Chairman of the Region Seven division of the AFC, David Daniels.

President Dr Irfaan Ali speaking with reporters on Wednesday

Duplicate fingerprint issues fixed in crossmatch exercise – GECOM Commissioner

Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM)

Commissioner Sase Gunraj has reaffirmed the integrity and effectiveness of Guyana’s fingerprint cross-matching system, one of the key safeguards ensuring electoral credibility.

Speaking to Guyana Times following a GECOM meeting on Tuesday, Commissioner Gunraj confirmed that the Commission has successfully resolved nearly all flagged fingerprint “hits” from the most recent cross-matching report. The report is part of a routine verification process used to detect and prevent multiple registrations by the same individual –either accidentally or intentionally.

“Every time someone applies to GECOM to be registered, their finger-

prints are taken and crossmatched against the entire database,” Gunraj explained. “The system flags potential duplicates, which we then investigate to determine if they were the result of errors or deliberate attempts at fraud.”

According to Gunraj, about a dozen potential duplicates were flagged in the latest report, but “most,

if not all, were resolved”. Some applicants were advised to make changes, while others had applications rejected or cancelled in line with established procedures. In more serious cases, GECOM refers the matter to the Police for investigation if there is evidence of deliberate manipulation.

In this regard, Gunraj emphasised that the con-

sistent detection and resolution of these attempts highlight the robustness of the system. “The fact that every attempt at duplicate registration is caught tells me that the system is working – and working properly. I am comfortable with its operation,” he said.

The Commissioner’s remarks come amid repeated calls from the Opposition for the introduction of additional biometric systems – such as facial recognition

or iris scanning – into the electoral process. However, Gunraj reiterated that any such change would require legislative amendments.

“We already have a strong safeguard in place. The fingerprint cross-matching system continues to perform with accuracy and efficiency. Any move to change that must be approached with caution, and with appropriate legal frameworks,” he said.

The 2025 General and

Regional Elections are set for September 1. Nomination Day has already been announced for July 14 which will allow for the submission of Lists of Candidates for the upcoming General and Regional Elections. On the designated day, the Chief Elections Officer (CEO) will be available to receive the Lists between the hours of 10:00h (10am) and 14:00h (2pm) at the Umana Yana, High Street, Kingston, Georgetown.

More focus to be placed on PE in schools – CEO

Chief Education Officer Saddam Hussain has pledged a renewed emphasis on physical play and sports education in Guyana's school system, highlighting it as a critical component of student development.

Speaking at an event to mark the International Day of Play, Hussain noted a concerning trend: as children progress from nursery to secondary school, play gradually disappears from their educational experience—a shift he says must be reversed.

Referencing research from the University of California, Hussain cited alarming statistics on social media usage among youth. Nine-year-olds reportedly average seven minutes a day, while by age 17, that balloons to nearly six hours. This, he said, is phasing out time for vital physical play and putting children's health and development at risk.

In response, the CEO outlined several concrete steps already taken by the Ministry of Education to systematically integrate play into learning. These include the introduction of a play-based nursery curriculum, the addition of “Beyond Core” periods in primary schools that allow for un-

structured outdoor activity, and the hiring of sports coaches rather than academic teachers to facilitate active play in secondary schools.

“So primary schoolthere is a beyond core period that means you can do anything. You can catch the grasshoppers. You can pick the leaves. All of that counts because all of that has been play. So, there are five periods per week where play can be done.”

“In secondary school, we have put something called the five priorities, and one of those priorities is, of course, a sport. Learning to participate, to perform in a sport. Now this is not an academic pursuit. This is not something that you have to learn and get the scientific skills in it. This is something that you go out and you play”.

“Students need to play,” Hussain stated bluntly.

“And play should be part of their education—not an afterthought.”

Additionally, Hussain announced that from the next academic year, trained Physical Education (PE) teachers will no longer be diverted to teach subjects like Business or Accounts.

“If you’re trained in PE, you must teach PE,” he affirmed.

The Ministry is also committed to constructing tarmacs in every school to en-

sure dedicated physical spaces for play. Hussain called for the Cyril Potter College of Education to integrate play more fully into its teacher training methodology, insisting that play must be embedded—not merely supplemental—to classroom practice.

Also at the event was the University of Guyana’s Vice Chancellor, Dr Paloma Mohamed-Martin, who emphasized the importance of recreation in learning.

“So, my mom was a nursery school teacher - in fact a headmistress, for many, many years of her life. And I learned a lot from her because she was big into play and into creativity. So, every single year for Mashramani, my entire family would be helping to paint the floats, helping to fund the costumes, helping to push something down the road. Every poetry competition, every song competition, everything; she was there. And she was a firm believer - she's still alive - a firm believer in play,” Mohamed said.

This year, International Day of Play was observed under the theme “Choose play – everyday” highlighting the critical role of play in the overall development of children, especially in contexts of displacement and increased vulnerability.

GECOM Commissioner Sase Gunraj

Chief Education Officer Saddam Hussain

University of Guyana Vice Chancellor, Dr Paloma MohamedMartin

3 men face court on drug, robbery, wounding charges

Three men appeared before Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday in separate cases involving narcotics possession, armed robbery, and unlawful wounding.

Andre James, a 26-year-old vendor of Lot 617 Trotman Street, ‘A’ Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown, was granted

bail in the sum of $35,000 after being charged with possession of narcotics for trafficking.

The charge alleges that on Saturday, June 7, James was found in possession of 35.6 grammes of cannabis at the Stabroek Market. Prosecutors told the court that the drugs were discovered on his person, and that James admitted it was part of his

“side hustle.”

James, however, pleaded not guilty and denied the allegations. He claimed the narcotics were found on a nearby stand and not in his possession. He further stated that he is a vendor who sells cigarettes and tobacco, and has no involvement with illegal drugs.

Despite the prosecution’s concerns that he

Suspect, victim shot in 2 separate robberies

Investigations have been launched into two separate incidents of armed robbery that occurred in Georgetown on Monday and Tuesday, leading to one suspect nursing a gunshot wound in one shooting incident, and the victim of the other armed attack in stable condition after being shot during the robbery.

Police say that around 11:15hr on Monday, at Cornhill Street, Stabroek, Georgetown, 20-year-old sales clerk, Avinesh Singh, was held at gunpoint and assaulted during a robbery at a snackette.

The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Dwayne John of Lot 56 Bent Street, Werk-en-Rust, reportedly entered ‘Kent Snackette/ Cheese Please Stand’ and struck Singh in the face before pointing a gun at him, and stealing a small box containing an undisclosed amount of cash belonging to businessman Ken Youderian Camacho.

John then fled the scene, discharging several rounds as Singh and two others gave chase.

Mobile police ranks in the area at the time were alerted, and quickly moved into Leopold Street where

they apprehended John. He was found with a wound to his chest.

When questioned, the suspect told police that he had discarded both the firearm and the stolen cash in a nearby drain during his escape.

Despite a search at the indicated location, investigators were unable to recover either the weapon or the cash.

John remains in custody assisting with the investigation.

On Tuesday morning, at approximately 3:30h, another violent robbery occurred at Aubrey Barker Road, South Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

Carlos Conyern, a 24-year-old chef, was shot in the lower abdomen by one of two masked bandits who broke into the upper flat of his home.

Police said the suspects entered through a southern window while Conyern was in bed. They demanded cash, and when he shouted “thief” in fear, one of the suspects discharged a round, striking him.

The assailants stole two Samsung cell phones, valued at G$85,000 and G$35,000, before fleeing the scene.

Conyern was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where he is currently in stable condition. A spent .32 shell was recovered at the scene.

Investigations into both robberies remain active, as law enforcement continues efforts to recover the missing firearm and cash from the Monday, Cornhill Street robbery; and apprehend the second group of perpetrators.

may reoffend if released, Magistrate Azore granted bail and adjourned the matter to July 16, 2025.

In a separate case, 39-year-old mechanic Quancy Glasgow was remanded to prison after he was charged with robbery under arms.

It is alleged that on May 29, at Hinck Street, Georgetown, while armed with a knife, Glasgow robbed Shannon Charles of an iPhone 12 Pro Max valued at $120,000.

The court heard that CCTV footage captured the incident, and that the victim positively identified Glasgow as her attacker.

The prosecution also revealed that after Charles attempted to follow the accused, he turned and threatened her with the knife, warning her not to move.

The matter was adjourned to July 23. At the third court case, 29-year-old vendor Mark Samaroo of Lot 91 Block ‘F’, North Sophia, was released on $75,000 bail, after he was charged with wounding.

According to the charge, on April 2, at Robb Street, Bourda, Georgetown, Samaroo unlawfully and maliciously inflicted grievous bodily harm on Troy Anthony Adams.

Samaroo pleaded not guilty to the offence, and the matter was adjourned to July 9.

Glasgow denied the charge. Given the nature of the offence and the strength of the evidence presented, bail was refused.

Ballistics report confirms guard fatally shot construction worker in Foulis incident

Aballistic report, police say, has confirmed that 29-yearold construction worker Rondell Clarke was fatally shot by a private security guard during a confrontation last Sunday night at Second Street, Foulis.

Clarke, a resident of Foulis, East Coast Demerara, was reportedly involved in a dispute that unfolded on the evening of June 8, between 19:30h and 19:45h.

Neighbours reported hearing an argument followed by gunshots.

Police responded immediately, and found Clarke still conscious at the scene. He was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where doctors attempted emergency surgery. Despite efforts to save him, however, Clarke succumbed to his injuries.

In their investigations, police seized weapons from the private security personnel and reviewed surveillance footage where available.

Two armed guards attached to Force Security Solutions, a private security firm operating in the area, were taken into custody.

On Tuesday, during a

post-mortem examination conducted by government pathologists, investigators recovered a damaged metal fragment from Clarke s body. The fragment was immediately sent to the Crime Laboratory at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) for ballistic analysis.

Hours later, experts confirmed that the fragment was discharged from an AR rifle that had been in the possession of Messiah Mussendeen, a 25-year-old security guard working with Force Security Solutions.

Additionally, forensic investigators were able to match a spent 9mm shell

casing found at the crime scene to a pistol carried by Devon Boucher, another security guard from the same company. The results confirmed that Mussendeen's AR rifle fired the fatal shot that struck Clarke.

The specific circumstances leading to the use of deadly force remain under investigation.

Both Mussendeen and Boucher are in police custody, assisting with the ongoing investigation, while the AR rifle and pistol recovered at the scene have been secured as key evidence in the case.

Andre James Quancy Glasgow

Mark Samaroo

Rondell Clarke

Opposition MPs blast their leaders over failed coalition talks

…call out Opposition Leaders for failing Guyanese

Two more Opposition Members of Parliament (MPs), from both of the main Opposition parties, have called out their leaders for failing to put country above party and coalesce, describing the failed talks as “deeply frustrating” and even expressing opposition to the idea of a consensus candidate.

In a statement, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) MP Amanza Walton-Desir expressed deep frustration at the stalled talks between her party and the Alliance For Change (AFC). According to her, she has been urging those involved to come to an understanding and form a coalition for the upcoming September 1 General and Regional Elections.

“I, like the majority of our supporters, am deeply frustrated and fed-up with the state of the negotiations between our coalition partners. While I might not have been in the room since January 2025, I have been urging, pleading with the parties involved to come together and create something that our supporters and the people of Guyana could be proud of,” she said.

According to the MP, it is now six months on and despite her urgings, they were no closer to an agreement. As a matter of fact, the two parties were, in fact, more divided than ever before. She made it clear that they were failing the people.

“We are failing the people who look to us for leadership, because we are feeding them a diet of division

and public bickering that is draining their hope and trust. We are failing the people who believe in us… the future will not forgive us, history will not absolve us. It is time we all wake up and realise that leadership means actually putting people first. Enough is enough now!”

Also issuing a statement was AFC MP Juretha Fernandes, who indirectly called out her party’s leader Nigel Hughes. She was critical of the party’s insistence on a consensus candidate to head the Opposition ticket, instead of current Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton.

“I have read several articles advocating for a consensus candidate, often from individuals who have not been actively involved in politics over the years. These pieces attempt to frame such a candidate as necessary for a coalition victory,” Fernandes said.

“The concept of a consensus candidate isn’t new to us. This idea formed the basis for heavy discussions a year ago in my party, and it was wholly dismissed by those considered senior leaders within the party. It was made abundantly clear by them that to be considered presidential candidate material, one must be the

East Coast trio on bail for separate criminal offences

Three men from the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) were brought before the courts this week on unrelated criminal charges: one charged with grievous bodily harm, and two jointly charged with narcotics possession.

Ryan Singh, a 25-yearold porter from Mon Repos, appeared at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, charged with inflicting grievous bodily harm.

The charge stems from an alleged attack on Wazim Shameer that occurred on June 1, in Mon Repos, ECD. Singh was arrested the same day by ranks from the Beterverwagting Police

Station.

During his court appearance before Magistrate Clive Nurse, Singh pleaded not guilty and was granted $100,000 bail. The matter was adjourned to July 18, for the disclosure of statements.

In the other case, 22-yearold Glenroy Roberts and 28-year-old Tahid Jacobs, both residents of Dazzel Housing Scheme, were jointly charged with possession of narcotics after police discovered 28.5 grammes of marijuana during an intelligence-led cordon-and-search operation on June 6, 2025.

The two men appeared at the Cove and John

Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Orinthia Schmidt, where they both pleaded not guilty. They were granted $75,000 bail each, and the matter was adjourned to July 30.

In a separate case just last month, Jacobs was charged with larceny and breaking and entering. He was arrested on May 16 for allegedly breaking into a home in Golden Grove North, and appeared before the same magistrate where he was granted self-bail.

That matter remains ongoing and is scheduled to continue on June 30.

leader of a political party.” Fernandes thus expressed surprise that persons were once again pushing the idea of a consensus candidate. According to her, going for a consensus candidate is fraught with its own risks and she urged her party to abandon this position.

“Throughout my political career, I have witnessed parties elevate people with no political experience to leadership positions, only to suffer the consequences of their inexperience and worse,

their betrayal due to a lack of loyalty to the movement.

Too often, grassroots political leaders are sidelined and labelled as “not electable” by those who wish to dismiss them in favour of individuals perceived as more “popular,” she said.

“And when these individuals fail to transform into genuine grassroots leaders, it is the people who suffer. This moment calls for leadership that is for the people, leadership that understands the plight of the people. And

dare I say, this moment is not to be hijacked by any group that perceives itself to be better than the political leaders who have stayed the course.”

Amid flagging talks between the AFC and APNU, AFC Leader Hughes had admitted that his party’s opposition to Norton as presidential candidate was a major factor in the breakdown of talks between the two parties.

In a statement he released on Tuesday, Hughes responded to claims that his party had demanded the presidential candidacy in a grand coalition that would contest the upcoming September 1, 2025 General and Regional Elections. Hughes denied this, admitting that while the AFC did not want Norton as the presidential candidate, they had proposed former Foreign Affairs Minister and Guyana’s agent before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Carl Greenidge, as one of their compromise candidates.

“What we have here is...

Additionally, Regional Vice Chairman for Region Four and member of the PNC, Samuel Sandy has endorsed the PPP. He joined Executive Member of the PNCR and Region Four Chairman Daniel Seeram, who also endorsed President Ali for a second term.

Former PNCR Central Executive member, Dr Richard Van West-Charles said he believed that President Ali was the leader Guyana needed now. Dr Van

West-Charles is the son-inlaw of former President and founder of the PNC, Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham.

In April, former PNC member Thandi McAllister also threw her support behind the PPP/C.

In 2023, Lance Smith, former General Secretary of the Guyana Youth and Student Movement (GYSM), the youth arm of the PNCR, and former Georgetown Mayor and longstanding PNC member, Patricia Chase-Green

broke ties with the PNC and joined the PPP/C to contest the Local Government Elections.

Additionally, leaders of smaller parties –The Citizenship Initiative (TCI) – Shaz Ally; The New Movement (TNM), Dr Asha Kissoon, and the Liberty and Justice Party (LJP) Lenox Shuman – have also joined the PPP/C ahead of the 2025 General and Regional Elections.

Ryan Singh Tahid Jacobs Glenroy Roberts

Aubrey Norton Nigel Hughes APNU MP Amanza Walton-Desir

AFC MP Juretha Fernandes

Several deals in works between T&T & local companies

– Trade mission wraps up visit to Guyana with T&T company’s local launch

The trilateral trade mission between Trinidad and Tobago (T&T), Guyana, and Suriname, is wrapping up the visit to Guyana with a number of deals in the pipeline between Trinidadian and Guyanese companies - even before they travel to Suriname.

An over 30-member Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturing Association (TTMA) trade mission recently arrived in Guyana as part of a trilateral trade mission exploring opportunities in Guyana and Suriname.

The trade mission is a collaborative effort between the TTMA and the Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce (SGCC). Coming out of this leg of their trip, the organizers have confirmed that several promising deals between Trinidadian and Guyanese companies are already in the works as they conclude their visit to Guyana.

“SGCC extends sincere thanks to all the Guyanese companies participating in the B2B meetings. Their openness to collaboration has created a fertile ground for innovation and growth, with several promising deals already in the works.”

“This mission signals more than just commercial interest; it represents a deepening of regional unity. As SGCC continues to serve as a bridge between Guyana, Suriname,

and the wider Caribbean, it remains committed to fostering trade that is strategic, sustainable, and impactful,” the organizers further said.

CEO of the Trinidad and Tobago Export Import (EXIM) Bank, Navin Dookeran, spoke on his expectations for the trilateral trade mission. He noted that businesses have had to consider new supply chains, presenting opportunities for the two sides to collaborate.

“Business people have had to think about new supply chains. It really got to a head during COVID and the supply chain disruptions. People started to think different-

ly about how they approach supply chains and linkages,” Dookeran said, “then after that, somehow, we fell back to how we were doing before. That little impetus, some companies would have capitalized on it. But some companies didn’t… now again, we’re in an era of supply chain issues.”

For his part, Dookeran had emphasized that trade must be a two-way street, allowing all parties to benefit, and promoted Trinidad as an investment destination. He also lauded the existing trade ties between Trinidad and Guyana, acknowledging the

No COVID-19 cases at West Ruimveldt Primary School – MoE denounces “false report”

The Ministry of Education (MoE) has strongly refuted claims aired by HGP Nightly News, suggesting that three Grade 5 students at West Ruimveldt Primary School have tested positive for COVID-19, and that the ministry failed to act on calls for fumigation.

The Ministry, in a sharply worded press release issued on Wednesday, labelled the report “false” and “irresponsible journalism.”

Following an internal investigation, the ministry confirmed that no COVID-19 cases have been reported or confirmed among the students or staff at the West Ruimveldt Primary School.

“The head teacher has verified that there are no reported illnesses. Furthermore, no official complaints or health reports have been submitted to the Department of Education.” The statement said.

The Education Ministry blasted the news outlet for disseminating what was described as ‘misinformation that could sow unwarranted fear among parents, educators, and the wider public.’

“This misinformation not only causes unnecessary panic but also undermines the trust and confidence of the public in our education system.” the release stated, urging media outlets to verify facts before publication.

The ministry went further to reassure the public that strict health protocols remain in place, including routine sanitation and immediate coordination with the Ministry of Health in any instance of illness.

The MoE emphasized its commitment to transparency and public safety, noting that any legitimate health threat is addressed swiftly and openly.

While the ministry denounced the report concerning West Ruimveldt Primary, a separate report from HGP Nightly News has again alleged COVID-19 cases at another school—this time at Winfer Gardens Primary.

According to a publication made via social media, two students, from Grades One and Four, reportedly tested positive, with the Grade One student being admitted to the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Infectious

Disease Hospital.

It is further alleged that a message sent to teachers at Winfer Gardens indicated that school would be dismissed early to facilitate sanitization.

The Ministry has called on all media outlets to uphold journalistic integrity, and avoid contributing to public anxiety through speculation or hearsay.

“We urge all media outlets to verify their information before publication and to act responsibly in the public interest.”

The Ministry of Health has maintained its call for individuals, especially students, to protect themselves and others from COVID-19 by following preventive measures, such as maintaining distance; wearing a mask if you are unwell and/or in crowded and poorly ventilated spaces, especially if you are in a risk group; keeping rooms well-ventilated; practicing hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette (covering your mouth and nose with a bent elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze); getting vaccinated; and staying up to date with booster doses.

open mindedness of those taking part in the trade mission for seeking new opportunities.

“When I walked into the room - first of all, we used to be able to fit everyone in there. But this is over 50 individuals. The growth that I’ve seen, Ramesh and the whole secretariat; you guys have done an amazing job to build this interest in the trade mission. Well done.” he commended.

The Guyana leg of the trade mission culminated with a Closing Cocktail Reception on June 11, during

which Maraj Air Conditioning Limited had its soft launch.

The company’s local branch will be based at Lot 73 Queens Street, Kitty. After this closing reception, the trilateral trade mission will continue in Suriname on June 13-14, 2025.

The trade mission participants include ARI's – Taste the Passion, Artie's Meats, BriCha Ltd, Camquip ICS Ltd, Cargo Consolidators Agency Ltd, Caribbean Corporate Governance Institute, Centaur Construction and Services, CGA Caribbean Ltd,

Chenseya's Fishing Services, DSB Marketing Ltd. and Electrical Industries Group.

Also participating were Happi Products Ltd, Indus Merchant Ltd, Kaleidoscope Paints Ltd, Maraj Air Conditioning Ltd, Mecalfab Ltd, Pepe's Marketing Ltd, Prudecon, Pure Harvest Ltd, RAMPS Logistics, Rissco and Rod Plus.

Other participating companies were Sacha Cosmetics, TAPFER Solutions Ltd, Tavaco Enterprise Ltd, TomToms Local Sweets and Wagos Ltd.

Black Bush Polder floodwaters receding; Cookrite Savannah cattle under threat …as 8,000 acres of rice, cash crops affected

Flood waters are receding in the Black Bush Polder (BBP), Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), after persistent heavy rainfall.

The recent flooding caused significant challenges for residents and local agriculture, as Cookrite Savannah’s cattle face conditions of more than a foot of water, while many cash crop farmers have suffered almost total losses.

Floodwaters receding

Following government intervention, water levels have begun to recede to the extent that some rice farmers are calling for irrigation water to be released into the community – a move that the BBP Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) Chairperson, Lounita Sanichar, says could be dangerous at this point in time.

According to Sanichar, despite the recent high levels of water in the cultivation area, there has been a considerable reduction in those water levels following the intervention of the Agriculture Ministry.

She says some—particularly rice farmers—are now asking for water to be released into their farmlands.

“Some of the farmers asked to release water from the Savannah, to bring water to get it to the rice now. But we asked permission from the NDIA [National Drainage and Irrigation Authority] before - we cannot bring the water in because as soon as you bring the water in, if the rain should fall, it will flood again. That is what happened the last time.” the NDC head explained.

Rice, cash crops affected; cattle disappear

The flood waters destroyed seedlings for about one-third of the 25,000 acres of rice in the four polders. Farmers have since replanted, while many of the cash crop farmers have suffered

almost total losses.

Regional Vice Chairman, Zamal Hussain, visited the four polders on Wednesday to get an update on the situation and to meet with farmers. He told this publication that the Agriculture Ministry has made arrangements for cash crop farmers to receive fertilizer, and seeds are being distributed to the affected farmers.

Meanwhile, Cookrite Savannah, which is situated between the four polders and the Canje River, is currently under more than a foot of water. There are reports that cattle have disappeared as floodwaters remain high; a threat that the NDC head acknowledges.

Initially, when the BBP scheme was created, Cookrite Savannah diverted excess water away from the scheme. However, it has since been used for cattle. As many of the cattle farmers are also rice farmers, Cookrite Savannah became home to rice cultivation as the industry expanded.

Those in Cookrite Savannah are also pleading with authorities to have the water released into the main cultivation area.

No rice has survived as a result of the flood waters, and the lives of cattle are now under threat. Some farmers have been able to move some of their herds, but it has now created a con-

flict at Lesbeholden.

Following the concerns raised by farmers on Wednesday, arrangements were made for the police to intervene. A meeting is planned between the two sides on Thursday.

According to one rice and cattle farmer, Rabindra Ragunauth, who cultivates 150 acres of rice at Johanna, his 350 heads of cattle are at Cookrite Savannah, and the water has forced some of them to run away.

“The cattle start to walk out from there. Forty heads walk out and go away for shelter. I find about fifteen, and the rest we can’t find.”

Ragunauth said he does not think the animals were stolen, but cannot be located.

Relief efforts

Nevertheless, the recent floods in the cultivation area have prompted immediate relief efforts, including the delivery of hampers by the government to affected families, while local officials have acknowledged that the drainage system is inadequate for swift water removal, exacerbating the situation.

Even as water levels began to recede following government intervention, many agricultural fields remained submerged, threatening the crops and livelihoods of farmers in the region.

From left; TTMA President Dale Parson and SGCC Chairman Vishnu Doerga

Regional Vice Chairman Zamal Hussain meeting with some farmers in the Black Bush Polder on Wednesday

Suriname Elections: 93,545 votes and 18 seats: NDP on top in official announcement

The National Democratic Party (NDP) won 93,545 votes nationwide for the National Assembly (DNA) in the elections. The difference with the VHP is 6,513 votes. The NDP won 18 seats, the VHP 17. The ABOP became the third largest party with 31,804 votes and 6 seats, closely followed by the NPS with 31,285 votes and also 6 seats. The PL won 2 seats with 10,317 votes, while A20 and the BEP each won 1 seat.

The Central Polling

Colombian

Station (CHS) announced the names of the elected candidates during a public session on Tuesday. The number of valid votes cast per candidate was also published. Among others, Jennifer Simons, Ashwin Adhin and Ingrid BouterseWaldring were elected on the basis of preferential votes for the NDP.

Rabin Parmessar is the oldest elected member. As soon as the election results have been declared binding by the Independent Electoral Board (OKB), President Chan Santokhi

senator

will swear him in. Parmessar can then convene the extraordinary meeting of the National Assembly. During this meeting, the credentials will be examined, and the elected members who have accepted their election will be sworn in and admitted.

At the same meeting, which will be held on Monday 30 June, the election of the Speaker and Vice-Chair of Parliament will take place. The NDP will nominate Ashwin Adhin as Speaker of the Assembly. (Star Niews)

Uribe shows signs of improvement after shooting; suspect pleads not guilty

Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe remains in a critical condition after being shot in Bogota on Saturday, but has shown signs of neurological improvement, the hospital treating him said on Wednesday.

The 39-year-old, a potential presidential contender, is a member of the opposition right-wing Democratic Center party. He was shot in the head as he was addressing a campaign event in a public park in the capital.

“Despite the severity of his condition, there are signs of neurological improvement due to a decrease in cerebral edema. There is also evidence of a trend toward hemodynamic stabilization,” the Santa Fe Foundation hospital said in a statement.

The institution added that Uribe remains under strict neurological monitoring and receiving required support at the hospital’s ICU.

Meanwhile, suspected teen ‘sicario’ pleaded not guilty to shooting the Colombian senator.

The15-yr-old was formally charged on Tuesday

with the attempted murder of 39-year-old conservative presidential candidate Uribe.

The teenager – who police believe was a “sicario” or hitman working for money – was also charged with carrying a firearm.

It is not known why Senator Uribe, who was vying for the candidacy of his party, was attacked. He was polling well behind other party candidates at the time of the shooting.

In a video of the teen’s capture, independently verified by the Reuters news agency, the suspect can be

heard shouting that he had been hired by a local drug dealer.

An earlier video showed that as the suspect, who was wounded, attempted to escape the scene, a voice could be heard shouting, “I did it for the money, for my family.”

But in court, the teenager rejected charges of attempted murder and illegal possession of a firearm, the attorney general’s office said. If convicted, he faces up to eight years in a rehabilitation centre, not prison, as he is a minor. (Source: Reuters, Al Jazeera)

WFP says there’s no food supplies for Haiti this hurricane

Haiti is entering the critical June to November hurricane season for the first time ever without any prepositioned food supplies from the World Food Programme (WFP), a situation described as “dangerously unprotected” by a UN spokesperson.

This alarming development comes as over half of the Haitian population already grapples with acute hunger, with the country being one of five globally experiencing famine-like conditions.

The WFP has not only reported a complete absence of contingency food stocks but also stated that its staffers lack the necessary financial resources to respond swiftly to any emergency weather event that might strike the already vulnerable nation. While other UN agencies have managed to preposition some emergency aid, including water and sanitation kits for 100,000 people and health supplies for 20,000, these are deemed insufficient to meet the overwhelming needs during an

J’can dancehall star Squash leads criminal gang, faces Florida federal charges – US authorities

Jamaican dancehall artiste Squash, whose real name is Andrae Maurice Whittaker, is facing serious legal trouble in the United States, where federal authorities reportedly identify him as the leader of a transnational criminal organization.

The 32-year-old entertainer faces two counts, along with forfeiture allegations, stemming from his February 24 arrest during a traffic stop in Miami, where law enforcement reportedly discovered a modified Glock pistol in the glove compartment of the vehicle he was traveling in.

He has pleaded not guilty to charges of illegal possession of a modified firearm and carrying a concealed weapon without a permit.

The case took a sharp turn in May, when federal prosecutors reportedly sealed a criminal complaint against him.

Federal authorities claim Squash is a known figure to law enforcement and ac-

Nearly

cuse him of leading the G-City Gang, which they say has been involved in violent criminal activity that originated in St. James, Jamaica, and later extended to Florida.

Federal investigators believe they have probable cause to charge Squash with being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm and unlawful possession of a machine gun.

If convicted, he fac-

es up to 10 years in prison per charge, with the potential for a mandatory 15-year minimum if prior convictions are found. Deportation is also a likely consequence. Squash remains in federal custody at the Miami Detention Center, with trial set to begin on September 2 in the Southern District of Florida. He has until August 26 to accept a plea deal and avoid trial. (Excerpt from CNW)

half of Brazilian adults in default as debt crisis deepens

Brazil faces a growing debt crisis as official data show a record 75.7 million adults—nearly half the country’s adult population—are now in default, according to Serasa.

Serasa Experian is Brazil’s leading credit bureau and provides monthly data on the number of consumers in default, the average value of debts, and the total value of overdue debts.

The average debt per person in default has reached R$1,588, and the total value of overdue debts stands at R$438 ($80)bil-

lion.

This marks a 13% increase in defaults compared to March 2024, according to financial services firm Paschoalotto, which analyzed national data from sources including credit bureau Serasa.

The highest default rates appear in states like Amapá, where 61.8% of adults are behind on payments, while Santa Catarina reports the lowest at 36.5%.

The main drivers of this crisis are persistent inflation, which reached 5.53% over the 12 months through

April, and the Central Bank’s benchmark interest rate, which stands at 14.75%—the highest in nearly two decades. Most overdue debts are owed to banks and credit card companies, which account for 28.5% of the total, followed by unpaid utility bills and other services.

The average Brazilian household now spends about 30% of its income on debt payments, and one in five families allocates more than half their income to servicing debts. (Excerpt from Rio Times)

Concerns grow over B’dos youth involvement in online sex trade

Aseason

emergency, particularly in the absence of vital food supplies.

With approximately 5.7 million Haitians—nearly half the population—experiencing emergency levels of food insecurity, the country is now among the five worst hunger crises globally.

Last week, Lola Castro, WFP’s Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, urged international attention and support following a recent visit to the country. (Excerpt from CNW)

recent national study has uncovered a sharp rise in online sex work among young Barbadians, sparking concerns about mental health risks and the potential involvement of underage individuals.

The startling revelations came to light during research work done for the Stigma Register Project 2024–2025, conducted under the National Wellbeing and HIV Commission, which surveyed 706 people between October 2024 and February 2025.

In the process of conducting the research, which explored stigma and discrimination experienced by LGBTQ+ individuals, sex workers, and people living with HIV, the

survey made startling discoveries about a growing online sex work economy that spans the island.

Jade Moore, one of the project’s research officers, said the findings reveal a robust underground economy dominated by individuals aged 18 to 35, including students from tertiary institutions who are turning to digital sex work to fund their education.

She recounted stories from respondents who maintain websites for private clients, offer services ranging from feet and body pictures to live video sessions, and receive payments through formal banking channels—all without ever meeting clients face-to-face.

The digital nature of

these services—facilitated via websites, social media, and encrypted messaging apps like WhatsApp—has enabled the formation of discreet yet highly organised networks. While the formal scope of the study focused on persons aged 18 and older—in line with legal consent—Moore expressed serious unease that minors could also be involved in the online sex economy. As the digital sex economy continues to grow unchecked, Moore believes urgent intervention is needed not just to reduce stigma and discrimination, but to protect vulnerable youth from exploitation and long-term harm.

(Excerpt from Barbados Today)

Jamaican dancehall artiste Squash

Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe

Around the World

OIL NEWS

Oil prices jump 4% to 2-month

high as tensions rise in Middle East

Oil prices rose more than 4% on Wednesday, to their highest in more than two months, after sources said the U.S. was preparing to evacuate its Iraqi embassy due to heightened security concerns in the Middle East.

Brent crude futures settled $2.90, or 4.34%, higher to $69.77 a barrel. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude gained $3.17, or 4.88%, to $68.15. Both Brent and WTI reached their highest since early April.

Surprised traders bought crude futures on reports the U.S. was preparing to evacuate its embassy in Iraq, OPEC’s No. 2 crude producer after Saudi Arabia. A U.S. official said military dependents could also leave Bahrain.

“The market wasn’t expecting this big geopolitical risk,” said Phil Flynn, analyst at Price Futures Group.

Earlier, Iran’s Minister of Defense Aziz Nasirzadeh Tehran will strike U.S. bases in the region if nuclear talks fail and conflict arises with Washington.

Trump said he was less confident that Iran would agree to stop uranium enrichment in a nuclear deal with Washington, according to an interview released on Wednesday.

Ongoing tension with Iran means its oil supplies are likely to remain curtailed by sanctions.

Supplies will still increase, as OPEC+ plans to boost oil production by 411,000 barrels per day in July as it looks to unwind production cuts for a fourth straight month.

“Greater oil demand within OPEC+ economies – most notably Saudi Arabia – could offset additional supply from the group over the coming months and support oil prices,” said Capital Economics’ analyst Hamad Hussain in a note.

Also keeping prices elevated was news of a trade deal between the U.S. and China, which could boost energy demand in the world’s two biggest economies. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Russia hits Ukraine’s Kharkiv with deadly nighttime barrage of drones

Aconcentrated, nineminute-long Russian drone attack on Ukraine’s second largest city of Kharkiv in the middle of the night killed three people and injured 64, including nine children, Ukrainian officials said on Wednesday.

The overnight attack followed Russia’s two biggest air assaults of the war on Ukraine this week, part of intensified bombardments that Moscow says are retaliatory measures for Kyiv’s recent attacks in Russia.

Musk called Trump Monday night before expressing regret for harshest criticism

Elon Musk called President Donald Trump Monday night, two sources told CNN, before saying early Wednesday that he regrets some of his social media posts about the president during their very public blow-up last week.

The call with the president, which lasted just moments, came after Vice President JD Vance and White House chief of staff Susie Wiles spoke by phone with Musk on Friday, when which the three discussed the

feud between Trump and the tech billionaire, two sources familiar with the discussion told CNN.

Musk backed off from his attacks following the phone calls, deleting his most critical social media posts about the president — including the one relating to Jeffrey Epstein and another agreeing with the suggestion that Trump should be impeached.

On Wednesday, Musk went even further, writing on X that he some of the posts “went too far.”

“I regret some of my posts about President @realDonaldTrump last week. They went too far,” he wrote on X.

Republican lawmakers and high-profile Trump allies have spent the last week quietly reaching out to Musk, urging him to not only reconcile with the president, but also support his domestic policy bill.

Musk’s message of regret in the early hours of Wednesday appears to have reached the president, who told The New York Post in a brief phone interview, “I thought it was very nice that he did that.” (Excerpt from CNN)

Trump tells Netanyahu to end Gaza war, stop Iran threats, source says, as US ramps up pressure on Israel

US President Donald Trump told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to end the war in Gaza and stop talk of an attack on Iran, according to a source familiar with the conversation.

The two leaders spoke on the phone on Monday. Trump later said the call went “very well, very smooth.”

The call for Israel to change course comes as Washington pushes for a nuclear deal with Iran and engages in indirect talks with Hamas over a ceasefire in Gaza.

Netanyahu convened his

top ministers Tuesday night after there was “some progress” in negotiations toward a ceasefire deal, according to his office. The purpose of the meeting was to give updates on the negotiations and dis-

cuss next steps. Earlier in the day, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said there had been recent progress in ceasefire talks that also aim to bring back hostages held in Gaza.

During their call, Trump asked Netanyahu to stop talking about an attack on Iran, the source familiar with the conversation said, and halt the leaks and reports about plans and preparations for an Israeli attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities.

Netanyahu has repeatedly pusahed for a military option to stop Iran’s nuclear program. In the conversation with Trump, Netanyahu told Trump that Iran is just trying to buy time and isn’t serious about negotiations, the source said. (Excerpt from CNN)

Harvey Weinstein found guilty of criminal sexual assault as jury reaches partial verdict in retrial

Ajury found Harvey Weinstein guilty of one count in his sexual assault retrial as they returned a partial verdict after days of apparently tense deliberations.

Weinstein, 73, faced three charges. He was accused of third-degree rape, and two counts of first-degree criminal sexual assault.

The jury told the judge they found Weinstein guilty of criminal sexual assault against Miriam Haley.

The jury found Weinstein not guilty of criminal sexual assault regarding accuser Kaja Sokola.

count, neither the prosecutors nor defense attorneys could comment about the outcome to the press. Sokola, however, spoke out after Wednesday’s proceedings.

“I’m very happy he’s con-

victed. That’s all that matters,” Sokola said.

Mann released a statement.

“I would never lie about rape or use something so traumatic to hurt someone,” Mann said in her statement.

“Coming forward cost me everything. My privacy, my safety. I laid bare my trauma, my shame – everything I’d tried to bury just to keep living. Still, I stood up and told the truth. Again and again.” (Excerpt from CBS News)

Palestinians killed by Israeli gunfire at US-backed aid site, officials say

At least 25 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli gunfire at a US-backed humanitarian aid site in Gaza, according to health officials.

jured at the scene close to the former settlement of Netzarim, near Gaza City, medical officials from the Hamas-run territory added.

Kharkiv, in Ukraine’s northeast, withstood Russia’s full-scale advance in the early days of the war but has since been a regular target of drone, missile and guided aerial bomb assaults.

The intense strikes by 17 drones on Kharkiv sparked fires in 15 units of a five-storey apartment building and caused other damage in the city close to the Russian border, the city’s mayor Ihor Terekhov said. (Reuters)

Elsewhere, two southern Ukrainian regions, Mykolaiv and Kherson, were left without electricity on Wednesday after Russian forces attacked an energy facility, the governors said.

The jury told the judge they have not reached a verdict on the charge of third degree rape involving Jessica Mann. The judge sent the jury home for the day, and told them they would continue to deliberate on that count Thursday.

The jury is made up of seven women and five men. They started deliberating Thursday.

Wednesday, the jury foreperson asked to speak to the judge in private, saying there was infighting going on between the jurors, with one allegedly telling another they’d meet them outside one day as an apparent threat.

Because the jury is still deliberating on the remaining

Medical officials at Shifa and al Quds hospitals say the people were killed as they approached the site - operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF).

Dozens more were in-

It comes just a day after Gaza health officials said 17 people were killed close to another GHF site in Rafah, southern Gaza.

Health officials said at least another six people were killed by Israeli gunfire as they approached a GHF site in Rafah on Wednesday.

Ten other people were also killed on Wednesday by Israeli strikes in Khan Younis, in southern Gaza, according to officials.

The Israeli military said its forces fired warning shots towards suspects who were advancing and which it claimed posed a threat to the troops in the area of Netzarim. (Excerpt from Sky News)

At least 49 persons have died in flooding in South Africa, officials say

At least 49 people have died in flooding in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province after an extreme cold front brought heavy rain and snow to parts of the country, officials said Wednesday.

Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane said the death toll was provided by police. The toll included six students who were washed away when their school bus was caught in floodwaters near a river on Tuesday, Mabuyane told journalists. He said four other students were missing. Mabuyane’s office had reported seven deaths in the floods on Tuesday. (ABC News)

A firefighter walks past a burnt car following a Russian drone strike in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on June 11, 2025

Take a low-key approach to whatever you do, and you can avoid setbacks. Channel your energy into completing tasks. Keep your thoughts and emotions under wraps until you can consider your options.

Set your sights on what you want and implement precautionary measures to offset any negativity. Communicate openly with charm and finesse; you’ll gain support and momentum.

Put everything in its place, and you will alleviate stress caused by clutter. Arrange to host a yard sale and sell what you no longer need. Invest more time in improving your lifestyle.

Question everything and everyone before you make an agreement, volunteer or sign up for something. Taking an interest in what’s new and exciting or updating your look will boost your confidence.

Choose stability. Put more thought and planning into how you want to proceed or what you want to do next. Don’t let anger lead to premature acts that create chaos and uncertainty. Avoid risks.

Channel your energy into something that motivates you. Once you feel confident about your accomplishments, don’t hesitate to socialize, network and present your work. Mix business with pleasure.

Take a moment to consider what’s important to you and refuse to let emotions interfere with your plans. Consider partnerships and your expectations before you agree to make a lifestyle change.

You can drum up interest if you present your ideas. Attend workshops, conferences, networking events and industry schmoozefests to captivate your audience. Don’t be shy; if you trust your ability, so will others.

Take the unknown out of the equation with direct communication. Go straight to the source, find out the expectations others have and work to smooth out any rough edges before you proceed.

Let your emotions and heart lead the way. Concentrate on what makes you happy and who you enjoy spending time with. Home improvements, lifestyle changes and updating your appearance will be uplifting.

Gather your thoughts before making a change. Plans are essential if you want to avoid costly mistakes. Look at your financial situation and put a reasonable budget in place. Take better care of your health.

An open mind will encourage you to visualize prospects and possibilities. Don’t hesitate to live in the moment, experience what life has to offer and connect with people who share your passions.

ARCHIE

Australia’s quicks follow Rabada’s start as wickets tumble on 1st day

Australia’s quicks followed what Kagiso Rabada started as the defending champions hit back strongly on the opening day of the World Test Championship final. The contest had been billed as a battle between two attacks and in all 14 wickets fell to suggest the destination of the mace could be decided sooner rather than later.

Rabada’s 5 for 51, the second time he has got his name on the Lord’s honours board, kept the defending champions to 212 before Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Josh Hazlewood struck back during the final session to leave South Africa tottering on 43 for 4 and looking towards their Captain, Temba Bavuma, for inspiration.

Australia’s reshaped top three had fallen before lunch after Bavuma had been pleased to bowl first under overcast skies. But at 146 for 4, with Steven Smith set despite suffering the flu, and 192 for 5 with Beau Webster having cashed in on a reprieve on 4 when South Africa did not review an lbw, they had an opportunity to recalibrate only to lose their last five wickets for 20. Aiden Markram removing Smith was up there with one of the more unexpected wicket-taking combinations on offer in this match. “I’m still trying to fathom how I’ve done that,” he later said.

Australia needed a re-

sponse and Starc provided it in the first over (again) when Markram dragged on an inswinger. He should quickly have had a second, but Alex Carey dropped a regula tion outside edge off Wiaan Mulder although he did not have to wait too long when Ryan Rickleton nicked a drive to first slip.

Mulder, batting at num ber three for just the third time in Tests, laboured to 6 off 44 balls before be ing beaten on the drive by Cummins. South Africa could barely score: between them, Mulder and Bavuma made 8 off 81 deliveries. In the closing moments of a day that was never short on ac tion, Hazlewood, back in the side after injury, pro duced a gem of a delivery that nipped back through Tristan Stubbs. Concerns about South Africa’s batting order were ringing true, not that Australia’s had looked convincing.

The day ended in bright sunshine, but had start ed in heavy cloud cover and with the floodlights on. After three consecutive maidens to start the Test – the first time by Australia since 2020 –- the opening runs off the bat came from the 21st de livery.

Marnus Labuschagne, starting his life as a Test opener, produced what ear ly scoring there was, but Usman Khawaja could not open his account before edg-

ing batter to face three different Test opposition at the ground: Pakistan (on debut), England and now South Africa.

him at third. It meant that Smith walked out, on what he termed his second-favourite ground in the world,

ing the 20th ball he faced. Rabada came round the wicket, forced Khawaja to play, and David Bedingham did nearly distracting him from second. It continued a familiar mode of dismissal for Khawaja who, since the start of 2024, has averaged 18.63 against quicks from round the wicket compared to 43.80 from over.

It looked like Smith was writing another significant Lord’s story, batting with more ease than anyone else had managed, while Lungi Ngidi was struggling to support the good work of Rabada and Jansen. But out of nowhere Smith drove at Markram’s offspin – only introduced to allow a change of ends – and edged to slip where Jansen made good use of his long reach to hold the catch after two juggles.

no match-changing partnership. Instead, Head fell to what became the final ball before lunch when he glanced Jansen down the leg side.

Cameron Green’s first delivery as a Test number three was a gift on the pads, but his third took the edge and was brilliantly held by Markram, who, this time, had to contend with Mulder diving across in front of

On resumption, there was a change in tempo, and a feeling Australia were taking the initiative. Smith took 11 off Rabada’s first over of the afternoon and, shortly after reaching fifty, became the leading overseas batter at Lord’s, surpassing Warren Bardsley. He was also the first visit-

Webster, meanwhile, had been anything but secure on his first appearance at the ground. He narrowly survived an early lbw appeal against Jansen when he was fractionally outside the line then had a huge dose of fortune when, on 8, Bavuma opted not to review an lbw shout against Rabada; Bavuma indicated he thought there was an edge, but it was two pads and hitting halfway up middle.

Webster continued to live a charmed life with his inside edge getting a regular working over, but he kept his composure and was quick to latch onto any poor deliveries. As if trying to make up for the earlier mistake, South Africa reviewed for another lbw against him only for it to have come off the middle of the bat.

Webster brought up the second fifty of his brief career from 69 balls as, either side of tea, he and Carey started to forge what felt like a threatening stand. But South Africa were giftwrapped another wicket for spin when Carey attempted a reverse-sweep and played over the top of Keshav Maharaj’s delivery.

From there, the tail folded and in all the last five fell in 35 balls. Cummins was cleaned up with a beauty which straightened down the line from Rabada while Webster’s innings was ended when he pushed off the back foot and edged to slip. Sadly for South Africa, the wickets did not stop coming.

(ESPNcricinfo)

Beau Webster overcame a tough start to score fifty

Mitchell Starc removed both the South African openers

Steven Smith continued his Lord’s love affair with another fifty

Kagiso Rabada picked up fivefors in consecutive Lord’s Tests

Marco Jansen strangled Travis Head down leg

est Indies Coach

WDaren Sammy believes Nicholas Pooran’s shock retirement from international cricket underlines his challenge to “keep our players motivated to play for the crest”, even as he predicts that more players will follow Pooran’s lead.

Pooran announced his decision to quit the international game on Monday, at the age of just 29. He never played a Test, and his last One-Day International (ODI) was two years ago. But Pooran is West Indies’ alltime leading run-scorer in T20 Internationals (T20Is), and the timing of his retirement – eight months before a T20 World Cup – came as a surprise to many, not least because he is already a top earner in the franchise circuit.

But Sammy, who captained West Indies to the 2012 and 2016 T20 World Cups in his playing days, said he had already started

Sammy on Pooran’s international retirement:

“More players will follow”

ahead, I respect the fact that he told us early enough so we have more time to plan without him.”

planning for life after Pooran before he had announced his decision. “My instincts told me something like that would happen,” Sammy said on Tuesday night, after West Indies’ sixth consecutive defeat on their white-ball tour to England.

“Nicholas sent me a text message, and so did I have a conversation with his agent as well… When we first spoke about the UK tour and the conversation I had with him, I did ask him, ‘Are you unavailable for the UK tour only, or indefinite?’ And from that response, I just knew I had to start preparing for the worst case.

“Ideally, a talent like that, I would love to have him in the team. But I don’t control nor could I control anybody’s careers… I wished him well, he wished the team well. It is [about] trying to move on now from planning a gameplan without Nicholas Pooran. With a World Cup coming

Sammy rewhen asked about Pooran’s decision, that he had spoken to his players in their team meeting before Tuesday’s T20I in Southampton about his own pride in playing for the West Indies crest.

“Surprised? No, I’m not surprised,” Sammy said. “I said something to the guys in the team meeting today: we don’t have control. It’s up to each individual. I made my debut in 2004 right at this ground, and I see here today in the stands the same people from 2004 – 21 years ago – the same fans: loyal, coming, bringing food, and everything they’ve been doing that way before I started, for Sir Viv [Richards] and these guys.

“The passion they have travelling from London, all over, coming to watch us playing – not because we are great, [but] because of the love they have for the game and for West Indies cricket; what it meant to them when West Indies came here back

Windies Women take rain-hit ODI opener by 4 wickets over South Africa

The West Indies Women began their three-match One-Day International (ODI) campaign against South Africa on a winning note, as they held their nerve in a rain-affected encounter to secure a four-wicket victory via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method at the Three Ws Oval on Wednesday.

In a contest interrupted and shaped by intermittent showers, the home side showed flashes of grit and composure, qualities that Head Coach Shane Deitz will hope become hallmarks of a new era for the regional side, who were returning to winning ways after being swept 6-0 on their tour of England.

After winning the toss and opting to field first, the West Indies bowlers found early reward through disciplined spells and crucial breakthroughs. Karishma Ramharack (2-44) and Aaliyah Alleyne (2-35) led the attack to restrict South Africa to 232-9 in their allotted 50 overs.

Despite threatening contributions from Tazmin Brits, who slammed five fours and a six in a 65-ball 57, and Nadine de Klerk, who made a brisk 42 off 38 balls, including three fours and two sixes, the visitors, who started brightly, faltered under pressure from an increasingly sharp West Indian field. Notably, run-

outs proved pivotal, with Laura Wolvaardt (27) and Nondumiso Shangase (two) falling short thanks to some slick work from Realeanna Grimmond and Zaida James, respectively.

Set a reduced target of 180, the West Indies’ reply began with purpose, as Captain Hayley Matthews, who made 40 off 44, and Qiana Joseph, who topscored with a 58-ball 60, laid a confident platform. The two posted a rapid 88-run opening stand that put the hosts well ahead of the DLS par score. Matthews had four boundaries and a six in her knock, while Joseph slammed 10 boundaries and

a six to lead the way.

Though the middle order stumbled slightly with Grimmond (five) and the returning Chenelle Henry (11) having brief stays in the middle, along with Shemaine Campbelle (12) and Jannillea Glasgow (10), experienced hands Stafanie Taylor, with an unbeaten 34ball 30, and Alleyne calmly steered the chase home.

The South Africans briefly clawed back through Ayanda Hlubi’s impressive 3-50.

With two more ODIs to come, the West Indies Women will look to build on their 1-0 lead in the second contest on Saturday.

in the 80s with Sir Viv and Clive [Lloyd], and they won games; the feeling it gave them during that era, walking down the streets, going to work the following day.

“It is up to us, each individual, to understand what the brand and the crest means, and come out and play a brand that those people come and travel three hours to watch you play because of what the crest means to them. It is up to each player to go out and put in that type of passion out there. I could only speak about it, but I can’t force anybody to do it, just like I can’t tell anybody when to call time on their career.”

Sammy also predicted that other players would follow Pooran’s lead relatively early in their careers, citing the recent examples of two South Africa players who have retired from interna-

Regal

tional cricket in their early 30s.

“I’m pretty sure more will follow in that mood, in that direction,” Sammy said. “That’s the way T20 cricket is now, and especially coming from the West Indies, with the challenges that we face trying to keep our players motivated to play for the crest, so I wouldn’t be surprised. You saw everybody talk about Heinrich Klaasen, Quinton de Kock, these guys who’ve retired. It’s out of our control.”

West Indies struggled badly in Pooran’s absence in England, losing 3-0 in both the ODI and T20I series, and will now return to Ireland for a three-match T20I series, which starts today. Sammy said that his main concern was around his team’s bowling attack, after they leaked 628 runs in 58.3 overs in the T20I series, including a total

Stationery signs on

of 248 in Southampton.

“It’s a question of skills,” Sammy said. “When being put under pressure, do we have the skillset to be disciplined with our plans? Do we back our ability long enough? Especially from a bowling point of view, we’ve been trying to search: how do we restrict things when they put us under the pump? [...] It’s a conversation with a World Cup in less than eight months: how do we get our bowling right?

“I think the batting will be more consistent. They have been over the last two years, but we can’t keep asking our batters to chase down high-200s, and then when we set 190 or 200, our bowling has yet to defend it. But I’m a very positive guy… We have enough time and games to put a combination together that could help us be successful.” (ESPNcricinfo)

as major sponsor for 3rd National Junior Golf Championship

Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, a trusted name in office supplies and a longtime supporter of cricket in Guyana, has officially joined as a major sponsor of the third Annual National Junior Golf Championship which will see young players from all over the country vying to deny Leguan Secondary School their third consecutive national title. This partnership marks another significant step in the continued rise of golf as the fastest growing sport in the country.

Mahendra “Anil” Hardyal, owner and Managing Director of Regal Stationery, praised the efforts of the Guyana Golf Association (GGA) and Nexgen Golf Academy, stating, “I’ve been closely following the development of junior golf across the country and am thoroughly impressed with how far it has come. Regal is proud to support a movement that invests in youth development and opens new opportunities for young athletes in Guyana.”

Regal Stationery, a subsidiary of the Regal Business Group, is based on Seaforth Street, Campbellville, Georgetown. It has earned a reputation as one of the most reliable and long-standing sponsors of cricket in Guyana – both on and off the field. With a celebrated franchise softball team and deep-rooted ties to local and international cricket development, the organisation is now turning its focus to golf, recognising the sport’s potential to impact young lives.

Regal Sports, a branch

of the company, provides quality sporting equipment for both amateurs and professionals. This positions the group as an ideal partner in supporting the holistic growth of athletes in Guyana. “We see clear crossover benefits between cricket and golf – discipline, focus, and technique. Our commitment is to help foster those attributes in young players through this exciting new partnership,” Hardyal added. With its strategic move into golf sponsorship, Regal Stationery reinforces its broader mission of youth empowerment through sport. The GGA and Nexgen

Golf Academy welcomed the sponsorship as a boost that will allow them to expand programmes and increase accessibility to golf across Guyana.

Regal’s manager, Telesha Ousman makes a presentation to GGA’s Aleem Hussain

West Indies’ Women started their home series against South Africa with a win

WI Coach Daren Sammy

Stena Drilling on board ExxonMobil

On Saturday, the Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground, Carifesta Avenue will come alive with exhilarating school football action when the sixth edition of the ExxonMobil Boys’ and Girls’ Under-14 tournament unfolds.

In anticipation of Saturday’s kick-off, teams were briefed on the competition’s rules and presented with balls for training purposes, as has become customary for coordinators Petra Organisation.

During Wednesday’s simple event at the National Library, the organisers also took the opportunity to unveil Stena Drilling as another sponsor.

There, the independent drilling contractor’s Local Content Manager, Christina Ramroop, was on hand to share why the company is supporting the event for a second consecutive year.

“We are proud to, once again, support the sixth annual Under-14 schools’ football tournament. It is always a privilege to be part of an event, that is not only promoting youth engagement and sportsmanship but one that also unites schools and communities in such a positive way,”

“We would also like to commend the organisers, parents, teachers, coaches; your unwavering support is recognised and we appreciate you. To all the participating teams, we applaud your passion, perseverance and commitment to the game,” the Stena Drilling official went on to add.

In delivering a charge to the young participants, ExxonMobil’s Community Relations Advisor, Lasawhna Prescott also reiterated the company’s commitment to the tournament.

“ExxonMobil Guyana

has been supporting athletes like yourselves through this Under-14 football tournament for six years now. We have seen it expand to include more schools and players and are always impressed by the amazing display of football skills, team spirit, and development over the weeks. Our hope is that the impacts of this experience across the tournament will translate an even bigger impact on your future. While we see great sportsmanship displayed on the field, we want you to apply the same learnings to your

everyday life,” Prescott remarked.

“That’s exactly why ExxonMobil Guyana continues to invest in sports. We want to make real differences and support initiatives whose benefits are felt around the country,” she added.

In excess of 50 boys’ and girls’ teams hailing from Regions One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven and 10 are expected to compete in this year’s ExxonMobil tournament.

The teams are competing for a $400,000 grand prize in both the boys’ and

Wgirls’ competitions, which will go towards a school project of their choosing. The second-place finishers will settle for $200,000, third- place $100,000 and fourth-place $75,000.

Individual award winners, like Most Valuable Player (MVP), best goalkeeper and highest goal scorer will receive a $60,000 school supplies voucher, accompanied by other accolades.

Chase’s Academic Foundation’s boys and President’s College girls are the tournament’s defending champions.

and Team Mineral face

Management clashing with Bomberz, LA Ballers facing Team Mineral, HH Ballers tackling Hard Knocks while Young Gunners versus

Spaniards will complete the night’s action.

Following are the results from night five, last Saturday.

hen the sixth night of play in the One Guyana King and Queen of the Sand Football in Linden continues at the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) office ground, there will be further consolidation of the leading teams as they aim to end up as the top two in each group to advance.

Friday will see a total of seven matches being played, with five set for Saturday along with a schoolgirls’ match between Multi and Mackenzie High from 18:00h.

Friday’s matches start

from 18:00h with Avocado v Circuitville (queens) followed by Rockstone v Fearless (queens). The kings will then take centre stage from 19:20h with Hard Knocks against Avocado Ballers, followed by LA Ballers and Swan FC; YMCA will oppose Rockstone,

Fearless with the final match of the night between Goal IQ and Hardball Management.

The schoolgirls game between Multi and MHS will kick off play on Saturday, and from 19:00h the kings will play, starting with UDK v Lil Ballers, Hardball

Ramroop shared.

Faces that will feature in this year’s ExxonMobil U14 tournament flank stakeholders from title sponsors ExxonMobil, Stena Drilling and the Petra Organisation

Stena Drilling Local Content Manager Christina Ramroop

ExxonMobil’s Community Relations Advisor, Lasawhna Prescott

Some of GDF women’s goalscorers Hard Knocks goalscorers

Golden Jags “pleased” to end World Cup campaign with 3-0 win over Montserrat

In front of a boisterous group of over 500 spectators, which included Head of State President Dr Irfaan Ali, Guyana’s senior men’s national football team, the Golden Jaguars, brought the curtains down on their 2026 FIFA Men’s Football World Cup quest on Tuesday evening, with a pulsating 3-0 victory against Montserrat at the National Track and Field Center (NTFC), West Coast Demerara (WCD).

For the home fixture, Head Coach Wayne Dover opted for a starting XI that included Captain Nathan Moriah-Welsh, goalkeeper Akel Clarke, Jalen Jones, Romaine Brackenridge, Reiss Greenidge, Kelsey Benjamin, Nathan Ferguson, Curtez Kellman, Osaze De Rosario, Enoch George, and Omari Glasgow.

Both teams started on a positive note, but it was Montserrat who sent the first shot goalwards, with Guyana’s Clarke warding off their advances.

Then in the 35th minute, Ferguson took a chance on a shot from outside the 18-yard box, netting Guyana’s first goal. Just three minutes later, De Rosario fought off a band of defenders after an assist from his Captain to secure Guyana’s second strike.

In the second half, Benjamin provided his second assist of the evening, this time to Glasgow, who needed only to tap the ball into the net for Guyana’s third in the 72nd minute, sending the Guyanese spectators into a frenzy.

Following the encounter, both Head Coach Dover and Captain Moriah-Welsh expressed contentment with the team’s performance.

Dover said, “Winning end, yes, we all prepared our minds and focus to come and get this result so that we could end on a high note. Kinda pleased that we got this

result, started a little shaky, but eventually we get into the game and took control. So, I’m very pleased with the performance tonight and the fact that we kept a clean sheet.

“I think it’s a positive to end on a good note after all the hard work for the last two, three years. Obviously, the performance in the last game wasn’t up to standard, but in the end, it’s good to finish on three points and three good goals,” Moriah-Welsh noted.

Reflecting on the difference a better result against Nicaragua could have made for Guyana’s qualifying chances, both the

Coach and Captain admitted that there was some lingering disappointment.

“Oh yeah, that was heart-breaking, because we lost that game 1-0. We knew that we don’t have a chance to go forward

and you know, it gives us a bad feeling at the end of that whole 90 minutes, but we all know that we have to come back to Guyana and end the season with good results, particularly for the fans and the GFF [Guyana Football Federation], who has made huge investments and the extended people in the nation,” Dover admitted.

Moriah-Welsh shared, “….at the end of the day, it’s on us to perform and we didn’t on the day. You know, we could’ve gone with a draw or even a win at some point. So, we just got to, obviously, regroup for whenever that is and just go again when the time comes.”

While the Golden Jaguars are not likely to have any more international fixtures this year, Dover is focused on rebuilding ahead of the team’s future assignments.

“We saw a very good blend of young players and we want to focus now on our rebuilding process, the fact that we don’t have any football to play for the rest of the year. We got to set ourselves targets and give ourselves at least two years to rebuild this team and then aim to qualify for the Gold Cup and move step by step to A League and then World Cup,” the current Golden Jaguars Head Coach explained.

Panama and Nicaragua, both of whom defeated the Golden Jaguars, are the two teams advancing out of the group to the next round of the World Cup qualifiers.

The Golden Jaguars celebrate one of their three goals on Tuesday night (Jemima Holmes photos)

A look at the battle between the Golden Jaguars (yellow) and Montserrat