“We
Mechanic shot during Charlestown robbery
Police destroy $70M worth of ganja along Berbice River
committed to addressing barriers to local supply chain participation –Routledge
Govt commits to holding reckless drivers accountable for damage to public property
...to pursue compensation for damage caused to BJ Demerara Bridge following accident
The Government of Guyana intends to seek compensation from any party found responsible for the damage to public infrastructure on the eastern approach of the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge, following a recent accident involving a minibus.
Just over a week since the opening of the facility, a Route 44 minibus crashed into the median separating the northbound and southbound lanes at the bridge’s eastern end, thus causing significant damage, including the destruction of solar-powered street lights.
During his weekly pro-
gramme “Issues In the News”, Attorney General (AG) Anil Nandlall reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to holding reckless drivers accountable for damage to public property, consistent with its established approach in similar cases.
“Let me assure you that our Government acts in an even-handed manner. If we are committed to a course of conduct, then we are committed to it. And once we are committed to that course of conduct, then whoever it is, the treatment will not be different. Equal treatment is part of the constitutional protection accorded to every Guyanese citizen,” the AG said.
The driver is currently hospitalised, and the Guyana Police Force (GPF) is conducting an active investigation. Once the investigation is concluded and damages are fully assessed, the AG’s Chambers will be-
gin legal proceedings to recover the cost of repairs.
“The matter is being investigated by the Police. A report obviously is being compiled. The damage done to the public infrastructure is currently being assessed, and included in that assessment, obviously, would be the cost of reparation.”
The AG added that in accordance with existing procedures, once culpability is determined, a formal letter will be dispatched to the responsible party seeking compensation. If that letter is ignored or inadequately addressed, further legal proceedings will follow.”
“That is the approach
that was adopted on previous occasions, and it yielded the compensation that was requested, and the public property was restored,” he said.
Nandlall’s remarks come in response to questions and speculation circulating on social media regarding whether the Government would pursue compensation in this particular case.
As such, he reaffirmed that no special treatment will be afforded to any individual, regardless of circumstance.
“No different approach will be taken here, because our Government made a public commitment to go af-
ter the persons who wantonly, negligently, and recklessly destroy public property.”
“I just want to say that for those who are asking whether some different treatment will be meted out to this particular motor user – I don’t know why they believe that some form of different treatment is expected to be meted out to this particular individual,” he added.
The Government has previously recovered costs for similar incidents involving destruction of public assets and says it will continue to protect public infrastructure and enforce accountability.
The minibus that was involved in the accident
Attorney General Anil Nandlall
BRIDGE OPENING
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Thursday, October 16 –13:25h–14:55h and Friday, October 17 – 14:10h–15:40h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Sunny skies are expected during the day, and clear skies are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 24 degrees Celsius and 34 degrees Celsius.
Winds: East North-Easterly to Easterly between 2.68 metres and 4.91 metres.
High Tide: 13:18h reaching maximum heights of 2.15 metres.
Low Tide: 06:41h and 19:11h reaching minimum heights of 1.02 metres and 1.07 metres.
“We
will protect every inch of Guyana’s territory with vigilance and resolve” – President Ali
...declares zero tolerance for attacks on citizens and military; vows to strengthen defence, democracy & regional unity
President Dr Irfaan Ali has sent a firm and unambiguous message to all who threaten Guyana’s sovereignty: “We will protect every inch of Guyana’s territory with vigilance and resolve.”
The Commander-inChief of Guyana’s Armed Forces delivered the declaration Wednesday, during the commissioning parade of the Guyana Defence Force’s Standard Officers Course #56, where he reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to defend the nation’s sovereignty, uphold democracy, and safeguard peace in the region.
Standing before the newly-commissioned officers, President Ali reminded the country that its soldiers are not only defenders of borders but also guardians of democracy, stability, and national dignity.
“Our men and women in uniform stand ready to safeguard our territorial integrity and sovereignty, ensuring that our land, rivers, forests, and resources – from gold to diamonds –remain secure from those who might seek to exploit or plunder them,” the President asserted. “We are not building a military for aggression. We are building a military for assurance – a force that defends, responds, and contributes to national progress.”
President condemns Venezuela’s actions
In his most direct statement yet on recent Venezuelan incursions, President Ali condemned the attacks on Guyanese citizens and soldiers in the Cuyuni region, making it clear that Guyana will not bow to provocation or intimidation.
“We condemn the attacks against our citizens and our military using the Cuyuni. We will not tolerate it,” he declared firmly.
“Our territorial space will remain a space we will defend – with our partners, with our allies, and with all who stand on the side of freedom, sovereignty, democracy, and the rule of law.”
Tensions between Venezuela and Guyana escalated throughout 2025 due to multiple armed attacks in the Cuyuni regi -
on. The incidents involved Venezuelan-based armed men firing upon Guyanese military patrols and personnel, including those escorting election officials.
In February, armed Venezuela men attacked a Guyana Defence Force (GDF) patrol boat on the Cuyuni River, injuring six soldiers. The GDF returned fire, and the attackers retreated. In May, armed men from the Venezuelan shore launched three separate attacks on GDF troops conducting riverine patrols; no Guyanese soldiers were injured during these attacks.
Then in August, a Guyanese Joint Services patrol escorting election
officials and ballot boxes came under fire from the Venezuelan side of the Upper Cuyuni River. No one was harmed, and the team successfully completed its mission.
President Ali emphasised that while Guyana maintains respect for the Venezuelan people and continues to welcome those seeking refuge and opportunity, the territorial controversy must be settled peacefully through the International Court of Justice (ICJ) – not through aggression or coercion.
“Guyana stands firmly on the side of justice and legality,” he said. “We reject all forms of aggression and any attempt to impo -
se solutions through force. Peace, dialogue, and international law must define the way nations interact in our hemisphere.”
Building a modern, smart, and resilient defence force
The Guyanese leader further outlined his Government’s ongoing investments in modernising the GDF, ensuring that it remains not only a shield against threats but also a partner in national development.
He noted that the GDF is now the best equipped in its history but emphasised that true military strength is not measured in hardware alone.
“We are building modern hangars. We are deploying aerial platforms. We are integrating drones for surveillance. We are strengthening training and improving infrastructure,” he explained. “The vision is clear – to build, deploy, and operate a modern, smart, and resilient Force in support of national defence and development.”
“The real strength of this force lies in its people – in the discipline of its troops, in the integrity of its officers, and in their commitment to serve with honour and humility,” he said.
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Dr Irfaan Ali addressing the commissioning parade of the Guyana Defence Force’s Standard Officers Course #56
Editor: Tusika Martin
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Climate-smart innovation
Guyana’s agricultural sector continues to evolve through a series of targeted and transformative initiatives designed to enhance productivity, sustainability, and inclusivity. The latest development, the establishment of climate-smart tunnel houses for poultry production under the leadership of Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, represents a major step forward in the nation’s drive toward agricultural modernisation.
The project, conceptualised following a commitment made by President Dr Irfaan Ali during a meeting with young people at La Jalousie, signifies more than just an infrastructural investment. It embodies a new vision for farming, one that combines technological advancement with youth empowerment and economic sustainability. By introducing tunnel house technology to poultry farming, the Government is laying the groundwork for a more resilient, efficient, and climate-adaptive agricultural future.
The construction of the tunnel houses at the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) in Mon Repos marks a crucial milestone in this journey. These climate-smart facilities are specifically engineered to provide optimal conditions for poultry rearing, regardless of external environmental challenges.
Their design ensures consistent ventilation, temperature control, and biosecurity, all critical elements that can drastically reduce mortality rates and improve yield. In a country where poultry is a staple protein source and a key component of the domestic food supply chain, such innovation promises both food security and economic stability.
Equally significant is the collaborative financing model underpinning this initiative. With the total project valued at $50 million, the inclusion of youth co-funding to the tune of $10 million, complemented by $40 million in banking sector support at preferential interest rates, reflects a well-balanced public-private partnership framework.
This approach not only lessens dependency on Government financing but also instils a sense of ownership, accountability, and entrepreneurship among young participants. It underscores the administration’s belief that sustainable agriculture must be both economically viable and generationally inclusive.
The establishment of the five-acre poultry farm at Mon Repos will set the stage for large-scale, high-efficiency poultry production capable of yielding approximately 45,000 chickens per batch. Beyond its immediate economic implications, the project represents an important policy statement: that the future of Guyana’s agriculture rests on the adoption of modern technology and climate-resilient systems.
Traditional methods, while valuable for their cultural and community-based relevance, can no longer single-handedly sustain the demands of a growing population, rising food costs, and increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.
The integration of tunnel house technology into local agriculture also aligns with global best practices in sustainable food production. Across Asia, Europe, and Latin America, similar systems have been successfully deployed to reduce resource wastage, enhance disease control, and ensure year-round productivity. For Guyana, the transition toward such models could establish the nation as a regional leader in modern agritech applications, especially within Caricom, where food security remains a shared strategic priority.
Equally important is the project’s focus on youth involvement. Encouraging young people to actively participate in agribusiness represents a deliberate effort to reshape perceptions of the agricultural sector. For too long, farming has been viewed primarily through a traditional lens, often associated with labour-intensive, low-profit activities.
By integrating advanced technology, Government incentives, and financial inclusion, the initiative reframes agriculture as a dynamic, profitable, and innovation-driven career path. This, in turn, could help address the challenge of rural youth unemployment while fostering a new generation of agri-entrepreneurs equipped to sustain and expand the country’s food production base.
Moreover, the tunnel house project serves as a pilot model with potential for replication across multiple regions. Once the eight facilities at Mon Repos become operational, expected by the end of the first quarter of 2026, the outcomes will likely inform future agricultural strategies. The model’s success could pave the way for expansion into other areas such as aquaculture, livestock breeding, and horticulture, reinforcing Guyana’s broader goal of achieving food self-sufficiency and export competitiveness.
The Government’s investment in climate-smart agriculture demonstrates an alignment with its long-term development agenda under the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). It exemplifies how innovation, when combined with inclusivity and sound financial planning, can transform challenges into opportunities.
In essence, the tunnel house poultry initiative reflects the convergence of policy, technology, and youth empowerment, a triad that defines modern agricultural progress. It is an initiative that not only strengthens the nation’s food systems but also cultivates a new era of thinkers, innovators, and producers capable of sustaining Guyana’s growth trajectory.
As the project advances toward full implementation, it stands as an example of what is possible when vision meets collaborative action.
The battle for the future of the world has begun
By DaviD Blair
The first President George Bush, like his son, was not famed for ringing phrases or rhetorical skill. Yet back in 1991, the elder Bush came up with a humdinger.
“No nation on Earth”, he said, “has discovered a way to import the world’s goods and services while stopping foreign ideas at the border. Just as the democratic idea has transformed nations on every continent, so, too, change will inevitably come to China.”
It hasn’t quite worked out that way. The first point about the imminent threat of a US-China trade war, made more likely by Beijing’s furious response to Donald Trump’s plan to impose an extra 100 per cent tariff on Chinese exports, is that it was never supposed to be like this.
Allowing China to join the World Trade Organisation and opening up markets on both sides of the Pacific was intended to promote harmony and lead ultimately to a peaceable, unthreatening and even democratic China.
Personally, I blame Richard Cobden, the brilliant Victorian radical, who described free trade as “God’s diplomacy” because there was “no other certain way of uniting people in bonds of peace”.
Cobden thought that free trade would create a natural harmony of interest among the nations because the safer and richer your neighbour, the more
you would be able to sell them.
The spirit of Cobdenism hovers above the words that plenty of Western leaders have used about China, peaking as recently as 2005 when Sir Tony Blair, visiting Beijing as Prime Minister, claimed to detect “unstoppable momentum towards greater political freedom”.
Today, China and America are united by a colossal flow of trade, exceeding $650 billion (£490 billion) last year, and yet, far from glorying in the “bonds of peace”, the two countries are shamelessly breaking the rules that guarantee this relationship and searching obsessively for leverage against one another, even though both will almost certainly lose.
Cobden’s idealism has collided with a timeless verity of human nature: two rivals will gladly damage themselves if they believe the other will suffer more.
China triggered the latest round of the confrontation by announcing sweeping restrictions on the export of rare earths, the minerals that are vital to every economy and over which Beijing exerts near monopoly control.
America, Britain and everyone else need rare earths to make the advanced magnets that are found in everything from iPhones to vacuum cleaners, wind turbines and jet fighters.
There are 17 categories of rare earth, and China has now limited the export
of 12 of them. That matters because Chinese companies control over 90 per cent of the world’s total refined production.
Trump responded by denouncing a “hostile order” and threatening not just 100 per cent tariffs on China but restrictions on America’s own exports of vital software on which Beijing’s industries depend.
Somewhere high above, Cobden must be scratching a puzzled and spectral head and wondering why China decided to invest billions in amassing the capacity to produce and refine rare earths – and profit handsomely by selling them worldwide – only to limit its own ability to do so?
That really isn’t in the free trade textbook.
And why would an American president react by threatening not just tariffs – which China has duly promised to match – but also his own restrictions on the export of vital US products from which his country benefits?
The answer is that there is something that America and China value more than simple commercial success – and are prepared to pay a price to achieve – and that is the ruthless business of seizing advantage over one another in a monumental contest for supremacy on which the future of the world depends.
In this situation, selfharm is fine, provided the other side is harmed more.
The rest of us need to grasp this reality and then focus, coldly and unsenti -
mentally, on our own interests. That means finally letting go of Cobdenism and understanding that the world of rules, order and enlightened self-interest that may once have come into view after the Cold War has slipped away forever.
Instead, all around us, the system of global free trade from which Britain prospered is being torn to shreds by the two biggest economies on Earth. Our response must be to limit our own vulnerability, first and foremost by reducing our economy’s reliance on rare earths produced or refined in China.
We need to be recycling magnets instead of importing new ones. The EU already aims to meet a quarter of its demand for critical minerals through recycling by 2030. Is there a comparable British initiative?
And it makes no sense to proceed with decarbonising energy and transport if that means creating new vistas of dependency by allowing China to build our renewable energy system and supply our electric vehicles. This is a time not for idealism but for putting national security first.
Cobden was wrong about the rationality of nations. A generation of Western leaders, influenced by his ideas and starting with George Bush Senior, got China wrong. Now we must deal with the consequences. We can only hope it’s not too late. (The Telegraph) David Blair is Chief Foreign Affairs Commentator.
Market and Vendor Day on Wednesday at Sheet Anchor Primary School, Region Six, in celebration of Agriculture Month 2025. Pupils, teachers and parents showcased an abundance of locally grown fruits and vegetables on vibrantly decorated stalls, along with crafted items and homemade treats (RDC Region Six photo)
Foreign diplomats flag high transportation costs in C'bean as hindrance to regional integration
With Guyana currently undergoing major economic transformation and neighbouring Suriname on the verge of similar developments, calls are being made for interventions to address the high cost of transportation and lack of connectivity within the Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) region.
The calls were highlighted during a panel discussion at the International Business Conference (IBC) Guyana 2025 – the flagship event of the Suriname-Guyana Chamber of Commerce that is being held in Georgetown.
Tuesday’s panel saw the participation of Mexican Ambassador to Guyana Mauricio Vizcaíno Crespo, British High Commissioner to Guyana Jane Miller, Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana Sébastien Sigouin, and Indian High Commissioner to Guyana Dr Amit Telang – the latter three also holding non-resident diplomatic posts in Suriname.
Under the topic “Strategic Partnerships for Regional Development: Guyana, Suriname and Beyond”, the foreign envoys discussed how diplomacy is enabling development in both Guyana and Suriname and how strategic partnerships can help turn regional potential into tangible and sustainable progress.
One of the deterrents to integration within the Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) region that was highlighted, especially amongst Caribbean Community (CARICOM) members, is the high cost of transportation.
In fact, High Commissioner Miller pointed out that, “… It costs as much for me to fly
to Suriname as of me to go to New York. Now, that’s a huge barrier.”
Similar sentiments were expressed by Ambassador Crespo, who noted that while there are flights through Panama with COPA Airlines and more recently through Colombia with Avianca and the Dominican Republic with Skyscanner, there are potential opportunities for investment into the movement of people and resources across the LAC region.
He noted that, in the case of his home country, the political will at the level of government to do this is there, but the private sector, especially within the aviation sector, has to step up.
“In terms of air transportation, I think the private sector could do even more, so much more… To connect to Mexico [from Guyana], you have to go through either Panama, Colombia, Dominican Republic, or the United States. So, one would ask, why aren't
the Mexican airlines looking into that? Because Mexico is very well connected to Canada, to the United States… Mexico could be the point of connection to the rest of the region, as right now is Panama or Bogota,” Ambassador Crespo noted.
New trans-Atlantic route
Moreover, the Mexican diplomat spoke about his country’s efforts to enhance connectivity with the Caribbean, including the new railway system that links the Yucatán Peninsula with the Caribbean. He said the Mayan train that runs through that peninsula not only serves as a touristic tool but also for trade and people transportation, with interest already from Belize – a CARICOM member state – to be connected to the railway network.
According to Crespo, this railway network could help move food and people from the Atlantic to the Pacific, opening up regional access to Asia
and the rest of the Atlantic. In fact, he noted that Guyana and Suriname are positioned on the way to this new trans-Atlantic route, and this presents more opportunities for integration.
“So, new trans-Atlantic routes could be open with more ports or larger ports in Guyana and Suriname that could also connect us to market in Africa… So, with Mexico on one side and Guyana and Suriname on the other, we definitely are the doors to the Caribbean region and inter-connection to the rest of nations there… Mexico, because of its intransigent position, we will soon have a new route connecting the Atlantic to the Pacific which is open to all Caribbean nations that want to [send] their goods and products and services from the Atlantic to the Pacific,” he posited.
The Mexican Ambassador pointed out that this alternative route has become necessary, especially since some ex-
I welcome President Ali’s railway plan
Dear Editor,
President Dr Irfaan Ali’s announcement of plans to construct a railway linking East Bank and East Coast Demerara gives me hope that commuting in Guyana can finally get faster, safer, and fairer.
I spend enough time in traffic between Georgetown, the East Bank, and the East Coast to measure my week in brake taps. When President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali spoke about introducing a modern train system, it felt like a turning point. We’ve widened roads and added new links, yet the gridlock finds its way back every morning and evening. At some point, we have to admit that paving more lanes won’t solve a problem born of too many cars heading to the same places at the same time. A reliable train network is the kind of big, practical step that can actually change daily life here.
More than anything, I want my time back. Predictable travel matters. Trains run on schedules that don’t bend to
every minor fender-bender or sudden downpour, and they can move far more people per hour than a road choked with private cars and minibuses. If we connect the busiest corridors – especially the East Coast and East Bank – many of us could trade a stressful, open-ended drive for a ride we can count on. That kind of reliability is priceless when you’re trying to get to work on time, pick up the kids without panic, or simply plan a day without building in an hour of “just in case”. Beyond time, there’s the quiet benefit of safety. Every day we navigate abrupt stops, risky overtakes, and the near-misses that spike your blood pressure long after you’ve parked. Shifting a meaningful share of trips to rail lowers those exposures. With modern signalling, welllit stations, and clear pedestrian access, the journey becomes calmer. Fewer cars battling for the same strip of tarmac means fewer chances for things to go wrong. Then there’s the cost we
don’t always tally. Fuel, maintenance, parking, and lost hours add up – often silently, week after week. If fares are fair and service is frequent, a train pass could undercut the total cost of driving daily or stitching together multiple minibus rides. That can leave more money for groceries, school supplies, and savings. For families walking a tight budgeting line, the difference would be felt immediately.
There is a cleaner promise too. Anyone who has sat in a mid-afternoon snarl knows the taste of exhaust and the weight of heat radiating off idling engines. Modern electric trains, especially as our power mix improves, can cut emissions per passenger and reduce the noise and fumes that hang over our busiest corridors. Streets near stations would feel different –quieter, with air that doesn’t sting after a long standstill.
Fairness is the test I keep coming back to. The people who spend the largest share of their income and time on transport stand to gain the
most from reliable rail. That’s why affordable fares, accessible design, and simple, integrated payments matter. If stations are designed for seniors, parents with strollers, and persons with disabilities, then the system serves everyone – not just those who already have good options.
In the end, success looks simple to me: shorter, reliable trips between the East Coast, Georgetown, and the East Bank; stations that feel safe at dawn and after dark; fares that don’t sting; and trains that arrive when the timetable says they will. If we hold to those principles, President Ali’s train plan won’t just move people. It will buy us back time, reduce daily stress, and open doors to opportunity across Guyana. That’s why I welcome it – because done well, it can change the shape of an ordinary day for the better, and that’s the kind of progress everyone can feel.
Yours sincerely, Philip Inshanally
isting routes in the region are hit by consequences of climate change that could hinder trade from the Atlantic into the Pacific.
Similarly, British High Commissioner to Guyana, Jane Miller, emphasised the importance of the Linden to Lethem Road, which the United Kingdom is funding.
Northern Brazil
“In Guyana, we’re working the corridor that would connect the Atlantic to Brazil. So, we’re working currently on the Linden to Mabura Hill [section]. It’s a really important road because we know that trade corridors are important where they are in the world, and I think enabling Northern Brazil to be able to get to the coast is really important,” she posited.
The US$190 million Phase One of the Linden to Lethem project will see 121 kilometres (km) of asphaltic road being built from Linden to Mabura Hill in Region 10 (Upper
Demerara-Upper Berbice). This project is being funded through the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) via a US$112 million loan, a grant of £50 million (US$66 million) from the United Kingdom’s Caribbean Infrastructure Partnership Fund (UKCIF), and an input of US$12 million from the Guyana Government. Phase Two of this project will see the all-weather road being extended from Mabura Hill to Lethem in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) – a section that could also be funded by the UK government.
Just last week, the United Kingdom Export Finance (UKEF) – the UK’s official export credit agency – raised its financing capacity for Guyana from £2.1 billion to £3 billion, and Guyana has already highlighted some of the projects that this money could be used for.
President Dr Irfaan Ali has already indicated that the UKEF funding could be used to finance the second phase of the Linden to Lethem Road Expansion Project as well as the deep-water port facility in Berbice and the modernisation of the country’s electricity transmission system.
The Guyanese leader has long touted this road to Northern Brazil as a key piece of infrastructure that would position Guyana as a transport hub in the region. This vision will see the road network building out from Lethem, which borders Brazil, all the way to Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), leading to neighbouring Suriname.
From left: British High Commissioner Jane Miller; Canadian High Commissioner Sébastien Sigouin; Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr Amit Telang and Mexican Ambassador to Guyana, Mauricio Vizcaíno Crespo participating in a panel discussion at the IBC in Georgetown
Page Foundation
Tangent
The tangent of a triangle is the ratio of the height to the base of the same triangle. It measures how steep the slope of the triangle is. You will see it labelled as tan on your scientific calculator.
tan θ =
Example 1
Opposite = 3, Adjacent = 4
tan θ =
tan θ = 3/4
The slope of the triangle is 3 to 4, meaning for every 4 units along the base, the triangle rises 3 units.
Example 2
Opposite = 6, Adjacent = 8
tan θ =
tan θ = 6/8
The slope of the triangle is 0.75, meaning for every 1 unit along the base, the triangle rises 0.75 unit.
Example 3
A wheelchair ramp rises 4 metres over a horizontal distance of 5 metres. What is the slope of the ramp?
tan θ =
Instructions
1. Remove the backing from a 4x4 picture frame. Using purple acrylic paint, paint the frame purple. Let dry.
2. Spread a thin layer of yellow air-dry clay onto the frame backing. Smooth out.
3. Use a paper towel or another textured item to create a pattern in the clay.
tan θ = 4/5
tan θ = 0.8
The ramp rises 0.8 metre for every metre along the base.
Example 4
A ladder leans against a wall. The bottom of the ladder is 6 feet from the wall, and the top reaches 8 feet up. What is the tangent of the angle between the ladder and the floor?
tan θ = 8/6
tan θ = 1.33
The ladder rises 1.33 feet for every foot along the floor.
Practice
1. A ramp rises 2 meters over a horizontal distance of 5 meters. How steep is the ramp?
2. A ladder leans against a wall. The bottom of the ladder is 5 feet from the wall, and the top reaches 6 feet up. Determine how steep the ladder is relative to the floor.
3. A hill rises 15 meters over a horizontal distance of 60 meters. How steep is the hill? Express your answer as “rise per unit of run”.
4. A triangle has an opposite side of 7 units and an adjacent side of 2 units. Describe how steep the triangle is.
5. A roof rises 6 feet over a horizontal distance of 6 feet. Express the slope of the roof in simple terms.
4. Trim the excess clay from the edges of the backing.
5. Using blue air-dry clay, mold pieces of a dragonfly body and attach to the clay-covered backing with school glue.
6. Draw 2 larger and 2 smaller wing shapes on bright pop cardstock. Cut out.
7. Stick the wings firmly into the wet clay of the dragonfly's body,
allowing them to stick out. Let dry.
8. Using markers, decorate the dragonfly and the background.
9. Place the scene into the frame, making sure the picture is right-side-up.
10. Use glitter glue to paint the dragonfly body and add more decorative accents to the frame and the picture. (Adapted from www. crayola.com)
By Ari Tison
My dad used to call me Eagle Eyes. I was the one to find eagles, owls, blue jays on a dark day. He called me so until my brother was born infant and grew to boy.
Having heard my name, as younger siblings often do, he wanted to be called Eagle Eyes too. He studied the birds’ flight, kept his eyes to the skies for hours, and soon he knew their long names and could correct me. Except, at sixteen, I never liked to be corrected.
But my brother showed me the work, and I had to learn to give. Give him all I could as my elders did for me. So I tugged on my heart to let go, as I knew he had earned Eagle Eyes more than I ever could. And what I found instead was new room, for a new name.
I am Siwa’köl, storyteller.
And my brother, he is Eagle Eyes. I tell his tales and mine so someday when we join the elders, my stories may be told and his birds can take to the sky.
But for now, I will share with you my story so that you can know who you are— and maybe you are Siwa’köl too.
[Source: Poetry (March 2021)]
What time of day do you think school should start? Write a convincing argument on why or why not the time of day school starts should change.
WORD SEARCH
GDF commissioning parade
7 women among 30 to receive instruments for completing Standard Officers’ Course
– Commander-in-Chief hails new generation of soldiers, underscores national transformation and duty to defend Guyana
Seven women were among 30 officers who officially joined the ranks of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) on Wednesday, as President and Commander-in-Chief Dr Irfaan Ali presided over the commissioning parade of the Standard Officers’ Course #56.
Of the 30 who have completed the course, three are from Belize, and five are from the Guyana Police Force (GPF).
Addressing the parade, President Ali described the event as “a moment when dedication, discipline, and duty converge – when young men and women, having proven their mettle through training and perseverance, are entrusted with the duty of command.”
“This is no ordinary day,” the President declared. “It marks not just the completion of training, but the beginning of a lifetime of service. You now carry the responsibility to defend, to protect, and to serve – with fairness, compassion, and integrity.”
The Standard Officers’ Course, conducted at the Colonel Ulric Pilgrim Officer Cadet School, has long been the cradle of military leadership in Guyana and the wider Caribbean. The President reminded the officers that their training was not only a test of endurance but also of
character.
”Prosperity must rest on foundation of peace and security”
“Here, you were tested not only in drills but in discipline; not only in tactics but in teamwork; not only in theory but in integrity,” Dr Ali said. “Through this crucible of training, you have been refined, strengthened by discipline, and united by purpose.”
He told the graduates that they now inherit a proud tradition, one built by generations of officers who have defended Guyana’s borders, upheld the Constitution, and given their lives in service to the nation. “
Linking military service to national progress, the President spoke passionately about Guyana’s ongoing transformation and the role of the GDF in safeguarding it.
“Guyana today stands at a moment of immense transformation,” he said. “We are not the same country we were a decade ago. Our economy grows with a speed and scale that has captured the attention of the world. Our social fabric strengthens as communities are connected through better infrastructure and greater opportunity.”
Dr Ali emphasised that prosperity must rest on a
Foreign diplomats...
FROM PAGE 5
Corentyne River Bridge
Currently, Guyana and Suriname are looking to bridge the two South American neighbours via the Corentyne River Bridge.
The high-span bridge will run approximately 3.1 km, connecting Moleson Creek in Guyana to South Drain in Suriname with a landing on Long Island in the Corentyne River, where a commercial hub and tourist destination will be established. That free zone will see major infrastructural development such as hotels, recreational parks, entertainment spots, tourist attractions, malls, and farmers’ markets.
High Commissioner Telang says that connectivity and infrastructure will largely determine the pace of future development for both Guyana and Suriname, adding that the Corentyne River Bridge is also key to advancing regional integration.
“That would probably be a major transformation, contributing to regional growth… It should be probably the biggest priority right now… From our own experience [in India], we can say having connectivity, having
good infrastructure is probably the most important thing in order to have that kind of [integration and] more business to come… So, focusing on infrastructure and investing more in infrastructure, I think is the need and it’s an imperative for business and economic to flourish,” the Indian diplomat contended.
During a high-level meeting in Nieuw Nickerie last month, President Ali and Surinamese President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons recommitted to bringing the Corentyne River Bridge project to reality and agreed to have a specific coordinating group look at addressing all outstanding technical, financial and legal issues to advance the project.
Previously, both Guyana and Suriname had settled on the Chinese construction company, China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), as the preferred contractor to build the new bridge. Back in October 2024, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill had told Guyana Times that the contract between the contractor and the two countries would be signed as soon as the financing mechanism for the bridge is sorted out.
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Dr Irfaan Ali presenting instruments to new officers at the commissioning parade of the Guyana Defence Force’s Standard Officers Course #56
foundation of peace and security. “True progress is not measured in GDP alone.
It is measured in lives improved, in opportunities created, and in our shared
values strengthened,” he declared. “When we invest in national defence, it is not an
investment in war – it is an investment in peace, in protection, in the security of our prosperity.”
The presence of seven women among the newly commissioned officers was hailed as a milestone in the ongoing modernisation and diversification of the Guyana Defence Force. It reflects, the President said, a commitment to inclusion, leadership, and equal opportunity.
“These women have demonstrated that courage and competence know no gender,” Dr Ali noted. “They stand today as an inspiration to young women across Guyana – proving that service, leadership, and excellence are for all.”
2025 International Business Conference Suriname ready to work with Guyanese businesses – Surinamese
Suriname’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business and International Cooperation, Melvin Bouva, has extended a bold invitation to Guyanese businesses, reaffirming his country’s readiness to collaborate, as both nations move to unlock the transformative potential of the Guiana Shield – one of the world’s most ecologically and economically significant regions.
Delivering remarks at the 2025 International Business Conference (IBC) in Georgetown, Minister Bouva said Suriname’s partnership vision with Guyana is rooted in shared geography, shared prosperity, and shared responsibility.
“As Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business and International Cooperation, my role, and that of the Ministry, is to act as a bridge and a catalyst. Our mission is to connect opportunity with capacity and potential with partnership. We are not only the custodians of Suriname’s foreign relations but also the facilitators of international trade, investment, and cooperation. Through active economic diplomacy, we are expanding Suriname’s global footprint. We are strengthening our bilateral and multilateral engagements, promoting Suriname as an investment destination, and fostering cross-border cooperation with strategic partners, notably Guyana, Brazil, French Guiana, others in the region, and the CARICOM family,” the Surinamese Minister said.
The Guiana Shield,
stretching across Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, Venezuela, Colombia, and northern Brazil, is one of the world’s oldest geological formations and a vital environmental asset.
Rich in gold, bauxite, and diamonds, the region also holds some of the planet’s most pristine rainforests, absorbing massive amounts of carbon and sheltering rare wildlife found nowhere else. Its rivers, including the Essequibo and Orinoco, are crucial water sources for millions.
Regional leaders are now exploring ways to unlock the Shield’s economic potential through cross-border trade, renewable energy, and sustainable mining.
Minister Bouva described the relationship between Guyana and Suriname as one shaped not only by proximity but by purpose. On this note, he emphasised that the region stands at the threshold of a new era of opportunity and transformation, made possible by recent oil and gas discoveries and by deliberate efforts to diversify both economies.
“Also, in relation to our neighbour Guyana, economic diplomacy, therefore, will be one of the main drivers of Suriname’s foreign policy, precisely to translate macroeconomic development into endless opportunities for its private sectors and other stakeholders, especially our community. But let me be clear, from the outset, for Suriname, this is not solely an energy story. It is the catalyst for a much broader and profound ambi-
Foreign Affairs Minister
tion, the complete and deliberate transformation of our economy into a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient economy.”
Minister Bouva underscored that this transformation cannot be achieved by Governments alone.
He reminded conference participants that, ultimately, progress will be measured not in promises but in results.
“Both Suriname and Guyana possess abundant natural resources, fertile land, rich biodiversity, and an increasingly skilled workforce. But our greatest asset, ladies and gentlemen, remains a strategic location, as the bridge between the Caribbean and South America… Our economies are poised for growth not only in energy but also in agriculture, tourism, fisheries, logistics, and digital economy… The private sector, therefore, both domestic and foreign, is central to this vision. It is through entrepreneurship, it is through inno-
vation and investment that opportunities are translated into sustainable growth and employment,” he added. With more than 500 delegates and 100 speakers from across the Caribbean, Latin America, Europe, and North America, the threeday International Business Conference is being held under the theme “Bridging Businesses for Regional Prosperity”. The event seeks to strengthen commercial linkages, promote cross-border investments, and accelerate private sector partnerships across priority industries such as infrastructure, real estate, energy, tourism, and industrial services. The conference is organised by the GuyanaSuriname Chamber of Commerce, with strong support from the Suriname Investment and Trade Agency (SITA), the Guyana Office for Investment (GOInvest), and the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA).
Suriname’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business and International Cooperation, Melvin Bouva
Mechanic shot during Charlestown robbery
The Guyana Police Force is investigat-
ing an alleged robbery under arms (firearm) that occurred on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at Howes and Ketley Streets, Charlestown.
Preliminary information indicates that two identifiable males, one armed with a handgun, confronted a 27-year-old mechanic at the location and discharged sev-
eral rounds, injuring him in the process before relieving him of a gold chain. The suspects then escaped on a motorcycle.
The injured victim was taken to the Georgetown
Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where he is receiving medical attention. His condition is listed as stable. Investigations are ongoing.
Body of missing man found floating in Berbice River; suspect arrested
The lifeless body of 68-year-old Cledwin
Gordon, also called “Smokey”, of DeVeldt, Berbice River, was found floating in the Berbice River, two days after he was reported missing.
Following the discovery, a 49-year-old man was arrested and is being questioned.
Police stated that on Saturday, October 11, 2025, detectives visited DeVeldt Village, following reports that Gordon had gone missing after reportedly being involved in an altercation with another villager.
During the visit, sev-
eral residents were interviewed, and as a result of information received, a cutlass alleged to have been used during the altercation was recovered.
The suspect, also of DeVeldt, was arrested and taken into custody, and the cutlass was lodged as evidence.
Gordon’s body was pulled from the Berbice River in the vicinity of DeVeldt. His remains were taken to Bailey’s Funeral Home, awaiting an autopsy. In light of the discovery, the man with whom he had an altercation was arrested and remains in custody.
Charity man fined $80,000 for multiple traffic-related offences
James Daniel Parks, a 59-year-old resident of Charity New Housing Scheme, Essequibo Coast, was arrested and charged with five traffic-related offences on October 8, 2025, committed at Charity public road, Essequibo Coast.
Parks was charged with being an unlicensed hire car driver; breach of insurance; causing obstruction with a motor vehicle; having an uncertified motor vehicle; and operating a motor vehicle without a road service licence.
The accused appeared at the Charity Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Ravindra Mohabir, where the charges were read to him.
He pleaded guilty and was fined a total of $80,000 or two weeks’ imprisonment on all charges.
Confronting…
…China
Fifty-three years ago, US President Nixon turned their China policy on its head by flying to China – with his Secretary of State Henry Kissinger – in a visit dubbed “the week that changed the world”!! And how the world has changed since then – but not the way Nixon and Kissinger thought it would!! The US had been locked in its Cold War with the USSR, and Communist China – painfully recovering from the disastrous excesses of Mao’s experiments like the “Great Leap Forward” – was seen as one of the latter’s poor relations!!
Its new leader Deng, however, had signalled he was gonna be “pragmatic” in his policies – his motto being: “It doesn’t matter whether the cat is black or white – once it catches the mouse!” Nixon – the archetypical rabid “anticommunist” – was the perfect leader to unleash Kissinger’s strategy of playing off the most populous country, China, against the USSR. The Chinese, after all, resented Russia’s condescending “big brother” assumptions about their relationship. While they were poor and underdeveloped, they insisted they were the “Middle ”Kingdom” – around which the rest of the world should revolve!!
Well, Nixon and Kissinger came and saw – but ironically, eventually were CONQUERED!! They accepted Communist China as the “real China” in the UN with a critical Security Council vote – while relegating Taiwan to its nebulous state. Most importantly, they used China’s cheap labour to manufacture their goods – but gutted their domestic industrial belt!! And were surprised when – after two decades of feverish development – China started to close in on them in all spheres of national activity – industrially (of course!) but also militarily!!
While they obviously didn’t count on this outcome, they were to repeat this strategic mistake of underestimating other underdeveloped countries. Think Vietnam, Afghanistan, etc. Their strategy worked to the extent that the USSR fissioned and America was left as the lone superpower standing. But it's gonna take a lot of finessing to maintain that ranking!! In its NATO-supported effort to contain Russia in Europe in the war in Ukraine, China’s stature has grown even larger through its support of its erstwhile “big brother” – which has now accepted ITS junior role!!
China has also used the dollars piled up from filling the shelves of Walmart – and wherever else America shops – to buy nations and influence their policies. Through its growing navy, it’s a formidable presence in its South Pacific environs – and in fact, in the entire Pacific! Its Belt and Road Initiative has hopped and linked continents from Asia to Europe to Africa and now South and Central America. Economically – and militarily?
But in Trump, the Chinese have met their match!! His willingness to break the minuet-like moves of the old world order has them stumped!!
…the rest
In its efforts to contain China, the US has had to deal with the rest of the world that has also been – inevitably –changing. Take, for instance, India – towards which Nixon is on record as being very dismissive, to say the least. In the early decades of the post-WWII Cold War, the US tilted towards India’s bête noir, Pakistan, and India tilted towards the USSR – even though it was supposed to be “nonaligned”. But in a world armed to the teeth, a country that wants to maintain its self-respect and territorial integrity, India had to buy its weapons from somewhere, no?
Anyhow, India rose to become the fourth largest economy in the world – with the concomitant ambitions. It is “frenemies” with China, with which they’ve clashed over their borders and are competing powers in the evolving dispensation – especially in Asia.
Trump has tried to draw India closer into the US’s circle – but his “tough love” in trade and tariffs has them flummoxed!!
…Mad Maduro
Well, another drug boat coming out of Venezuela and heading towards America has been deep-sixed by the US armada in the Caribbean!! This is now number five with 27 killed.
We don’t have a value on the drugs sunk!!
James Daniel Parks
AG moves to enforce $37M judgement against “Melly Mel” in US
...says, “Even if we have to get $1 per day, they will get it”
On Tuesday, Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall announced plans to initiate legal proceedings in the United States (US) to enforce a $37 million judgement awarded in his favour against US-based Guyanese social media influencer Melissa Atwell-Holder, widely known as “Melly Mel”.
The judgement stems from a civil libel case Nandlall filed in the High Court, in which he secured a default judgement against Atwell-Holder in August.
“This judgement will be transmitted to my team of lawyers in the United States of America with firm instructions from me that the judgement be registered and be enforced in the United States of America. Guyana’s judgement is equally enforceable as any judgement obtained in the United States of America,” Nandalall stated in his “Issues in the News” podcast.
“This must be a learning experience for all of us who believe that we can be in a foreign country and do what we like, say what we like and libel people as we wish, and we are somehow immunised and insulated from the laws of this land. Guyana is part of the modern world, and there is no legal system in the modern world that is so incapable of protecting the rights and freedoms of the people who live in that society.”
Despite having been sued
and losing multiple civil court cases in both Guyana and the United States, Melissa Atwell-Holder has continued to boast on social media about being “untouchable” due to her residence in the US.
She has also claimed that she owns no assets that could be seized to satisfy any judgements against her.
Nandlall, however, emphasised that, regardless of her claimed lack of assets, pursuing enforcement of the judgement in the US is a matter of principle while adding that Atwell-Holder must not be allowed to openly disrespect the judicial system without consequence or to operate under the belief that her actions carry no accountability.
“I always say that the law may be slow, but law is not an ass. The arms of the law are very long.
… I don’t necessarily want anything from it. The lawyers from America will take their pay. Even if we have to get $1 per day, they will get it because the law must never be allowed to appear incapable and impotent to address an illegality,” Nandlall said.
“She will come out and say she doesn’t have a cent in her name and doesn’t own any property in her name. And that may be so, but this judgement will ensure it remains like that because any cent that goes into her bank account or anywhere that she has money or property, this judgement will be enforced against that money or that property.”
In addition to the $37 million judgement awarded to Nandlall, AtwellHolder lost another civil case in September, this time to Balwant Singh Hospital, which resulted in a $35 million judgement against her. She has since filed an appeal in that matter.
That same month, a federal judge in Brooklyn, New York, dismissed a multimillion-dollar defamation lawsuit Atwell-Holder had filed against fellow social media personality Rhonda Bobb.
Meanwhile, Public Utilities and Aviation Minister Deodat Indar also has an ongoing $50 million libel lawsuit against AtwellHolder pending in the High Court.
Atwell-Holder, who has amassed a huge following on
judgements will never affect her. That these judgements in Guyana cannot be enforced in America. She was even saying at the time that she cannot be sued in Guyana because she’s not in Guyana and she’s not making these publications in Guyana. Obviously, she’s ignorant of the law. So just as she learned that you will not have to be in Guyana to be sued and don’t have to be in Guyana for a judgement to be granted against you, she will also learn that these judgements are not as impotent as she thinks they are,” Nandalall reiterated.
mation about my colleagues to her,” Nandlall said.
“I’ve asked her to make public how it is that I communicated this great volume of information to her. I asked her to name any person through whom I am sending this information. I asked her to produce any evidence that I transmitted any type of information to her. Obviously, she was unable to do or produce any of these things.”
social media, is known for posting sensational allegations against public figures, often citing unnamed sources. Her posts frequently include screenshots of messages from individuals who ask to have their identities concealed.
However, many of her accusations have been easily debunked over time. Despite her repeated claims of possessing substantial evidence to support her allegations, such evidence has consistently failed to materialise during legal proceedings.
Nevertheless, AtwellHolder has continued her unrestrained online commentary, showing little sign of scaling back her controversial social media activity.
“This individual boasts on a regular basis that these
On November 22, 2024, Minister Anil Nandlall filed a $100 million lawsuit against Melissa Atwell-Holder over what he described as libellous content posted on her Facebook page.
In addition to seeking monetary damages, Nandlall also requested a court injunction to bar Atwell-Holder from publishing further defamatory statements, as well as an order compelling her to remove the existing posts.
According to Nandlall, the posts in question falsely portray him as a thief, a murderer, and as someone unfit to hold public office or practise law.
“She accused me of a number of wrongs. She accused me of committing a number of crimes, including stealing, murder. She accused me of betraying my colleagues at Cabinet. She accused me of divulging confidential infor-
Nandlall noted that notwithstanding her failure to produce evidence to support her claims, the libel continues. Nonetheless, Nandlall noted that Guyana continues to advance cybercrime legislation to deal with bullying across cyberspace.
“Even as I speak of this matter, she continues to libel. I instituted legal proceedings, and during the course of the proceedings, when I made the proceedings public, she continued to libel me.”
“When the Parliament is reconvened, we will present the new cybercrime amendments that we have already prepared and are in keeping with the protocol established by the United Nations. We have said that before, but that will come soon. So, nobody can accuse us of enforcing laws that don’t meet international standards. The laws that we are going with are laws that have been approved by the United Nations and supported by 180 countries across the world,” the Attorney General related.
Attorney General Anil Nandlall
Controversial social media commentator Melissa Ann Atwell, popularly known as “Melly Mel”
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2025| GUYANATIMESGY.COM
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2025| GUYANATIMESGY.COM
Abram Zuil Secondary tops Essequibo Coast Praant Rangoli Contest
The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Essequibo Coast Praant, brought the spirit of Diwali alive on Wednesday with its annual Inter-Secondary School Rangoli Competition, hosted at the Abram Zuil Secondary School, Abram Zuil, Region Two (Pomeroon–Supenaam).
The vibrant event fea-
tured dazzling displays of art, culture, and creativity from seven secondary schools across the region.
The competition, held in celebration of the upcoming Festival of Lights, saw students transforming the school compound into a colourful mosaic of traditional Rangoli designs –each telling its own story of light, faith, and triumph
over darkness.
When the final results were announced, Abram Zuil Secondary School captured the top spot with an exceptional Rangoli creation that embodied the festival’s essence: the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
Aurora Secondary School secured second
place for its meticulous artistry and cultural symbolism, while Anna Regina Secondary School placed third with a design that reflected unity, peace, and hope.
Other commendable performances came from Anna Regina Secondary School with third position, Johanna Cecilia Secondary (fourth), Cotton Field Secondary (fifth), Charity Secondary (sixth), and 8th of May Secondary (seventh), each impressing the audience and Judges with their creativity and team spirit.
75 tourists sail to discover Guyana aboard SH Vega
Some 75 foreigners, mostly from Australia, arrived in Guyana on Wednesday aboard the SH Vega cruise ship, eager to explore the country’s culture, nature, and hospitality as part of an immersive tour experience.
The SH Vega docked at the Guyana National Shipping Company (GNSC) wharf in Georgetown, carrying the 75 tourists who embarked on a 12-hour tour
around the city and other nearby areas.
As the tourists disembarked, Minister of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce Susan Rodrigues welcomed them to Guyana. She noted that several agencies collaborated to make the visit possible, with extensive preparations to ensure a smooth experience for the travellers.
“I am really excited about the trajectory we are on in this sector, particularly tourism,” the minister said. “Today we are able to welcome the Swan Hellenic cruise ship, a Norwegian cruise line. It originated in Barbados, made a stop in Trinidad, and has now arrived in Georgetown. They
ious stakeholders, including Evergreen Adventures, Jaybridge, the Guyana
will proceed at midnight tonight to Suriname, after which they will take a tour of the Amazon River and then return.”
“We are pleased to welcome about 75 passengers on the cruise ship today. They have all disembarked and have been split into groups. Some will do a Georgetown city tour, while others are boarding a plane to visit Kaieteur Falls. They’re in good hands – we’ve arranged all of the logistics in collaboration with var-
Tourism Authority, immigration, and the police.”
Bringing all of these stakeholders together, she added, was a massive undertaking, but the team succeeded in organising a special welcome for the visitors.
Local entertainment, including steel pan music, was provided, along with displays from Banks DIH and local arts and crafts vendors, offering tourists a true taste of Guyana to take home.
Meanwhile, the ship’s
captain, Oleksii Varyvoda, outlined the vessel’s features, emphasising the highlight of the cruise: the journey along the majestic Amazon River. He also detailed the ship’s eco-friendly amenities, designed to minimise environmental impact.
“The SH Vega is the second sister of the third series, delivered in 2022. She’s considered a green ship due to her smart systems controlling NOx emissions. Since IMO 2020, we’ve switched to very low sulphur marine diesel oil. Additionally, we have an advanced wastewater treatment system that treats all grey water – from sinks and showers – converting it into clean effluent, which we safely dispose of four nautical miles from the baseline. We also have an advanced ballast water treatment system that prevents the migration of microorganisms from one part of the globe to another, protecting ecosystems worldwide.”
The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Essequibo Coast Praant, continues to champion such initiatives to preserve Guyana’s Hindu heritage while inspiring young people to embrace cultural expression.
Abram Zuil Secondary School students and teachers after the winners of the Inter-school Rangoli Competition were announced Students creating the rangolis at the Abram Zuil Secondary School
Aurora Secondary School secured second position at the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha annual Inter-School Rangoli Competition
Ship Captain Oleksii Varyvoda
The SH Vega
Police destroy $70M worth of ganja along Berbice River
As the Guyana Police Force (GPF) continues its eradication exercise, more than $70 million worth of ganja was destroyed during an operation at Kuyarakuru Creek and Sabina Point, Upper Berbice River on Tuesday.
Police stated that the 14hour operation involved ranks attached to the Narcotics Branch and Regional Police Division Six.
During the exercise, four separate cannabis farms covering some 16 acres were discovered containing an estimated 95,000 cannabis plants ranging from two to seven feet in height.
In addition, a makeshift camp was also found at the location which had approximately 90 pounds (lbs) of dried cannabis. The cannabis plants, dried cannabis and the makeshift camp were all destroyed by fire.
The estimated street value of the narcotics destroyed is $70,968,116. Of this amount, the cannabis plants are valued at $32,186,000 while the dried cannabis is valued at $38,782,116. No arrests were made during the operation
GT woman wins 2024 MG 3 in “Race for the Keys 2025” promotion – 11 others cart off $100k each
After twelve exciting weeks of digital transactions, suspense, and celebration, Mobile Money Guyana (MMG) has officially concluded its successful “Race for the Keys 2025” promotion, awarding over $7 million in cash rewards and a grand prize of a brand-new 2024 MG 3.
The lucky winner, Aaliyah Sealey, emerged from a pool of 12 weekly qualifiers to claim the coveted keys at the grand finale held at the Massy Motors showroom at Movietowne in Georgetown.
“I still can’t believe I won! I was just using MMG like I normally do because it’s so convenient, and now I’m driving away in a brandnew car. Thank you, MMG, for making this possible!” Sealey stated.
The promotion, which
began on July 1 and ended on September 21, 2025, encouraged MMG customers to complete four or more transactions per week, each valued at over GY$1000, to qualify for weekly draws.
Eligible transactions included bill payments, top-ups, data activations, e-gift card purchases, merchant payments, and money transfers. Top-ups over $1000 were counted as two transactions, giving customers double the chances to qualify. Throughout the promotion, winners hailed from all across Guyana, from Berbice and Linden to Bartica, Lethem, and Georgetown.
The 12 finalists were Mark Ramdass (Berbice), Kerwin David (Linden), Randy Wilson, Vibert Austin, Brianna Lawrence, Ronaldo Griffith, Suraj Persaud (Georgetown),
Charlene Singh (Bartica), Sheldon Michael (Berbice), Andrea Smith (Lethem), and Laurie Ann Naughton (West Bank Demerara), and the grand winner, Aaliyah Sealey.
Each qualifier was a winner in this promotion. While one winner drove away with the grand prize, the 11 other qualifiers won $100,000 straight to their MMG accounts just for being qualifiers.
The “Race for the Keys 2025” was more than just a giveaway, but rather it was part of MMG’s ongoing mission to drive financial mobility and reward smart, cashless living across Guyana.
The promotion was designed to celebrate our customers for choosing convenience through digital payments,” Chief Executive Officer of MMG, Mark Singh, stated.
but investigations continue.
Just last week, a four-day drug eradication operation in the Upper Berbice River led to the destruction of millions of dollars’ worth of cannabis, and the seizure of a firearm, ammunition, and various equipment.
It was reported that the operation was carried out between Friday, October 3, and Monday, October 6, 2025, at Ebini Savannah and Wiruni.
At Ebini, four nursery beds containing an estimated 5000 cannabis seedlings along with a 12-gauge double-barrel shotgun, a chainsaw, a cellphone, two hammocks,
a haversack containing approximately four lbs of dried cannabis and a cardboard box with an estimated 60 lbs were found. In addition, three 20-gauge shotgun cartridges and a 15HP Yamaha outboard engine were also found. The cannabis is estimated to be worth $5,082,000.
Meanwhile at Wiruni, police searched a two-storey wooden house and uncovered approximately 90 lbs of cannabis. In the upper flat of the house, a black side-bag hidden under a bed contained a .32 pistol with an empty magazine, along with two mobile phones.
Police investigating sexual assault of 5-year-old in Reg 9 – CPA providing psychosocial support, trauma-focused counselling to victim
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, along with other stakeholders, has launched an investigation into the rape of a five-yearold child in Region Nine.
“Every payment, money transfer, or top-up brings us closer to a future where more Guyanese can access safe, fast, and convenient financial services. This promotion reflects our commitment to innovation and to bringing convenience by making digital payments a part of everyday life.”
With “Race for the Keys” now complete, MMG is gearing up for exciting platform upgrades designed to enhance customer experience. Users can expect faster transactions, a refreshed design, and new digital features in the coming months. Customers are encouraged to follow MMG on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for updates on new features, exclusive offers, and future promotions. The race may be over, but the journey with MMG keeps accelerating.
The Ministry stated that upon receipt of the sexual assault report on October 9, 2025, the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) immediately intervened and has been providing continuous support, including psychosocial support and trauma-focused counselling, to the child and family.
The child has since spoken with officials at the Child Advocacy Centre on Monday in accordance with all established Child Protection Protocols. The case now remains under active investigation by the police.
However, the Ministry said it has taken note of information circulating on social media regarding the incident and strongly condemns the sharing of such sensitive information. The Ministry reminded the public that doing so is irrespon-
sible and unethical and causes further harm and distress to the child. “Children who are victims of abuse must be protected, not exposed,” the Ministry stated.
Furthermore, the missive stated that sharing or reposting sensitive information involving children, especially victims of sexual assault, is a serious violation and can significantly impact the victim’s recovery.
“Section 10(2) of the Childcare and Protection Agency Act (Cap. 46:07) expressly prohibits the publication of any information related to a child involved in legal proceedings if such publication could lead to the identification of that child. This includes details such as the child’s name, age, address, school, or any other particulars that may reveal their identity.”
Meanwhile, the Ministry stated that it remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting every child in Guyana and will continue to take swift action in all matters of child abuse and exploitation.
One of the cannabis fields found
The makeshift camp that was discovered during the operation on Tuesday
The ganja being destroyed by fire
Grand prize winner Aaliyah Sealey
From left: Richard Das (MMG); Aaliyah Sealey (winner); Chandroutie Bhudram (MMG); Kyeara Duizer (MMG) and Raynol Narine (MMG)
Use of secret ballots in RDC’s elections is legal, democratic – AG
– rejects notion that something illegal was done
The use of secret ballots in electing Chairpersons and Vice Chairpersons of the various Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs) is both a lawful requirement and a standard procedure that upholds democratic principles.
This clarification was provided by Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall during his weekly programme, “Issues in the News”, aired on Tuesday evening.
“Secret balloting is a
standard operational procedure for elections of almost everything... We are voting by secret ballot to elect the Government and the President of the country. What is wrong with using a secret ballot to elect the Chairman of a municipal council? I want to reject any notion out there that there was something illegally done in the use of secret ballots as the method used to elect the Chairpersons of these regions,” Nandlall explained.
Nandlall also reminded that it is the Clerk of the
RDC, which is the Regional Executive Officer (REO), that is legally empowered to determine the method to be used to elect the Chair and VC, and not the councillors.
“There’s only one person who has official power at that forum, and it is the Clerk… The Local Democratic Organs Act vests in the Clerk the power to conduct elections of the Chair and the power and authority to determine any questions arising at the meeting during the election of the Chairman. A question arising would be the method to be used to take the vote, and the clerk has the power to determine that question,” Nandlall noted.
“The clerk at Regional Democratic Council Four in my presence determined that secret ballots would be the method used to elect the chairman. There is nothing unlawful. There is nothing irregular. There is nothing unreasonable or undemocratic about that process.”
The use of secret ballots to elect Regional Democratic Council (RDC) Chairpersons and Vice Chairpersons has become a topic of debate following last Friday’s swearing-in of councillors and
leadership elections across Guyana’s ten administrative regions.
While secret ballots are mandatory in Guyana’s General and Regional Elections (GRE), their use in RDC internal elections is optional – though traditionally followed. Several councils opted for secret balloting during Friday’s vote, which allowed councillors to vote freely without fear of reprisal.
However, some political parties that did not secure favourable outcomes have raised objections to the use
of secret ballots, despite the method being widely accepted as a means to ensure impartiality and protect voter choice.
In the October 11 Regional Elections, the ruling People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) secured the chairmanship in eight out of ten regions, including Regions One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Eight, and Nine.
This included a historic first-time win of both the Chairmanship and Vice Chairmanship in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) since the establishment of the RDCs some 45 years ago. Clemsford Belgrave was elected as regional chairman, while Deoraj Nauth was elected as his deputy.
Although the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) Party claimed victory only in Region Seven, its leader, United States (US)sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohamed, expressed dissatisfaction over their losses in Regions Eight and Ten.
However, the elections for Region 10’s chairmanship ended in a deadlock between A Partnership for
National Unity (APNU)’s Dominque Blair and Mark Goring from WIN, both of whom received nine votes.
In the case of the deadlock, Local Government Minister Priya Manickchand will now be responsible for casting the deciding vote.
“Region number 10, the elections are not yet concluded, and they will be concluded in accordance with law. In accordance with provisions of the relevant legislation. The law is not silent on this matter,” Nandlall said.
ExxonMobil committed to addressing barriers to local supply chain participation – Routledge
Despite ongoing challenges such as limited workforce capacity and access to finance, local companies that form strategic partnerships, particularly with international firms, are playing a vital role in strengthening local supply chains.
These collaborations are enabling businesses to seize emerging opportunities across the country’s growing economy, especially in the expanding oil and gas sector.
This point was emphasised by President of ExxonMobil Guyana Alistair Routledge during a press conference on Monday, where he disclosed that since 2015, GY$600 billion has been expended among local suppliers in the oil and gas industry.
Guyana’s local content legislation, enacted in 2021, aims to boost local businesses and citizens by mandating that oil and gas companies procure a percentage of goods and services from Guyanese nationals and companies. The law defines 40 sub-sectors, including transportation, legal services, and marketing, where local content is prioritised, and establishes a Local Content Secretariat to ensure compliance and provide certification.
According to the oil ex-
ecutive, Guyanese firms engaged in smart partnerships are driving the local supply chains.
“It’s very dynamic, the supply chain side, whether you’re in the catering side or some of the more technical aspects,” he said, noting that “what we’re seeing is local companies also partnering with international companies to bring additional expertise, sometimes some additional human capacity. And those smart partnerships can be very effective. What it means is we’re now doing more and more procurement requests for information to understand earlier in the process...what new capabilities are being developed in the country so that then we can make those available to local suppliers.”
For instance, he highlighted the increase in the amount of fabrication work now being done in the country.
“One of the great examples of that is that just a couple of weeks ago, we were at the Vreed-en-Hoop Shorebase, where Saipem has the second of the two yards where they are doing fabrication in-country of equipment such as the subsea jumpers that connect wellheads to flowlines…now at the Vreeden-Hoop Shorebase, they’ve
also started fabricating and assembling the very first ‘pipeline and flowline end terminations’, which are being installed on the seabed,” Routledge outlined, noting that this is just another milestone in Guyana for building local content and bringing more of the supply chain into the country.
As good as the numbers are, however, Routledge emphasised that “we should never be complacent, and we will continue to push forward on a number of fronts to ensure that there are yet more oppor-
tunities for Guyanese businesses and people to be employed in the industry.”
The ExxonMobil President acknowledged the challenges local companies face in meeting required standards to fully benefit from supply chain opportunities and reaffirmed the oil giant’s commitment to working with the Government to help address these gaps.
“I think specifically for Guyana, there is a workforce capacity challenge. Given the growth that’s happening across the country, capacity and
skills availability in the country, that we’re working with our prime suppliers, we’re working with the Government, working with the education institutions in the country to help to build the capacity to train, to educate so that we can accelerate those opportunities and help people in the country to get better, higher-paid opportunities in the country. So that is the first challenge; it is just the capacity and capability in the workforce,” he noted.
He also recognised that the oil and gas sector is also competing with other growing industries.
“We’ve seen all the gold price increasing; the mining sector is seeing a lot of investment. Obviously, tourism is growing, a lot of new hotels. So, there are other parts of the economy that are growing as well. And so, we’re all now competing for that limited human capacity.”
Routledge also recognised access to finance challenges among local companies.
“The ability for companies to grow requires not just human resource, but financial resource, capital to invest in equipment, buildings, warehousing, those kinds of things...and that access to capital isn’t always easy, and it’s of-
ten very expensive here in Guyana,” he acknowledged.
“So, we’ve been working with, again, the Government, with the Minister of Finance, with the banking sector to see what are some of the things that we as an industry can do. But some of these challenges exist, you know, more broadly for the whole economy,” Routledge said.
For the first half of 2025, ExxonMobil and its contractors spent about GY$87 billion among 1700 local suppliers, Routledge noted.
He added that about 70 per cent of the workforce of ExxonMobil and its contractors are Guyanese.
The Guyana Technical Training College Inc, commonly called the Oil and Gas Institute, which is situated in Port Mourant, Berbice, will play a significant role in building capacity among Guyanese to work in the oil and gas industry, Routledge recognised.
Last October, the first batch of students graduated from the college, and according to the institution’s director, Professor Clement Sankat, all 24 are currently employed on the various Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels offshore Guyana. Initially, students had to go to Canada for part of their training.
Attorney General Anil Nandlall
WIN’s Mark Goring
APNU’s Dominique Blair
Local Government Minister Priya Manickchand
ExxonMobil Guyana President Alistair Routledge
23 new technicians graduate from MACORP’s Caterpillar-accredited training programme
Twenty-three new technicians on Tuesday graduated from MACORP’s Caterpillar-accredited Technician Career Development Program (TCDP) – the largest batch to date, marking another milestone in the company’s ongoing commitment to developing local talent and supporting Guyana’s progress.
The TCDP has long been a cornerstone of MACORP’s Corporate Social Responsibility, providing young Guyanese with opportunities for professional advancement while contributing to national sustainable development.
Some graduates will join MACORP as trainee technicians, continuing their specialisation in the Caterpillar product line. Others will support the heavy-duty truck sector through Industrial Supply Guyana (ISG), MACORP’s subsidiary representing FOTON and International Trucks, or pursue careers in commercial and customer support roles.
Ranzolin Durga was named valedictorian and reflected on the journey.
“We began this journey six months ago as individuals from diverse backgrounds, each with our own
dreams and aspirations. Over time, we wove a tapestry of shared experiences – learning not just from Caterpillar University, but from each other. Our trainers have been our compass, guiding us with knowledge, wisdom, and inspiration. Your dedication has sparked in us a passion for learning far beyond the classroom.
He expressed gratitude to the families of the participants for their relentless support during the six months of training and to MACORP for providing this opportunity for growth and
professional development.
Other top performers included Jaden Trotman, Kenroy Joseph, Troy Leitch, Elvis Thompson, Shequeenna Darlington (the lone female graduate), Tression Hodge, Joshua Veira, and Dwaine Alleyne. The group completed training in Electric Power Generation Level One and Heavy Equipment Maintenance Level One programmes.
This graduation is particularly significant, as it represents both the largest class ever and the final cohort trained at MACORP’s
Assuria unveils innovative online General Insurance Portal
Assuria Guyana has taken another bold step in reshaping the future of insurance in Guyana with the launch of its innovative General Insurance Portal. This secure, customer-first platform places motor, fire, liability, bonds, policy management, renewals, certificates, and claims processes at a click.
More than just a new service, the launch signals Assuria’s vision for Guyana’s growth.
As a private-sector company with core values of innovation and customer focus, Assuria believes that the nation’s rapidly expanding economy deserves insurance solutions that keep pace.
By adopting digital tools, Assuria is helping to drive not only its own transformation but also the wider service industry’s modernisation, contributing to Guyana’s evolving business landscape.
With the new General Insurance Portal, customers can now request renewals for motor, fire, liability, bonds, etc.; manage and view coverages in one simple dashboard; Download your Digital Motor Insurance Certificate instantly – no delays, no waiting. Initiate and track the
claims process faster and more transparently than ever before. View receipts and payments.
Managing Director of Assuria Guyana, Yogindra Arjune, stated, “Guyana is in the midst of tremendous economic transformation, and service providers must rise to meet the moment. With this portal, Assuria is not just keeping up – we are setting the standard for what modern insurance should look like. It’s about giving our people the tools they deserve while driving forward efficiency, transparency, and trust in the industry.”
Assuria has long recognised that insurance must evolve alongside the
nation’s growth. From modernising processes to launching innovative products, the company continues to push boundaries, raise service standards, and create opportunities for customers to get more value from their coverage.
This latest digital solution marks yet another milestone in its strategy to build a stronger, smarter insurance sector that benefits all Guyanese. Customers can sign up today at generalportal.assuria.gy or visit any of the 11 locations to experience the next generation of insurance services – accessible from the comfort of their homes or on the go.
Providence facility. Future participants will train at the company’s new Covent Garden complex, which includes a 10,000-square-foot Learning Center equipped with modern classrooms, simulators, and training bays – positioning MACORP as one of the Caribbean’s leading technical education hubs.
President and General Manager of MACORP, German Consuegra, congratulated the graduates and emphasised the broader purpose behind the programme.
“For more than thir-
ty-two years, MACORP has proudly supported Guyana’s development with world-class equipment and reliable product support. But our mission has always gone beyond machines – it’s about building capacity and ensuring Guyana’s workforce possesses the skills and professionalism to sustain the nation’s growth.
Through our Caterpillaraccredited TCDP, we’ve created a structured pathway that meets Caterpillar’s global standards and prepares our graduates to excel in modern industry.”
In his charge to the grad-
uates, Consuegra urged, “Carry with you the pride of your achievement and the responsibility of your profession. Wherever your next step takes you, remember –you are part of a legacy of excellence that has helped build Guyana for more than three decades.”
Industrial Liaison Officer of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology at the University of Guyana, Anil James, speaking on behalf of Dean Dr Kofi Dalrymple, encouraged the graduates to use their skills to uplift themselves and their communities and commended MACORP for leading in workforce development.
Meanwhile, MACORP’s Human Resources Manager, Neilson McKenzie, announced an upcoming MOU between MACORP and the University of Guyana which will provide further specialisation opportunities for successful programme graduates.
The keynote speaker was Dr Ritesh Tularam, Deputy CEO (Technical) at the Ministry of Education. He applauded MACORP’s ongoing contributions and urged graduates to continue advancing their education and seize opportunities in Guyana’s expanding economy.
GCOPD observes Int’l White Cane Day with call for greater inclusion, accessibility
The Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD) observed on Wednesday International White Cane Day by highlighting the white cane’s significance –not only as a vital tool for safe and independent mobility, but also as a powerful symbol of pride, dignity, and the inherent right to inclusion for persons who are blind or partially sighted across Guyana.
The white cane is a visible declaration that persons who are blind are integral members of society. It represents identity, independence, and the continued fight for equal rights and recognition.
“The white cane is more than a mobility aid – it’s a statement that persons who are blind or partially sighted are fully present in our communities and entitled to the same rights, services, and opportunities as every other Guyanese,” GCOPD Programme Manager Ganesh Singh related.
While GCOPD acknowledges the progress made by the Government of Guyana – including initiatives aimed at increasing oppor-
tunities and promoting independent living for persons with disabilities – it emphasises that significant barriers still persist. These include inaccessible public spaces, discriminatory attitudes, and continued exclusion from essential services.
On this International White Cane Day, GCOPD calls on all stakeholders to ensure full accessibility in public infrastructure, transportation, and digital platforms, including all web-based services; eliminate barriers that prevent persons who are blind or
partially sighted from accessing services; implement measures to guarantee equal access – such as allowing individuals to open and manage their own bank accounts as sole account holders – and strengthen and enforce legal protections for the rights of all persons with disabilities, particularly those who are blind or partially sighted.
GCOPD remains committed to advocating for a society where every individual, regardless of ability, can live with dignity, autonomy, and full inclusion.
Managing Director of Assuria Guyana, Yogindra Arjune
GCOPD Programme Manager Ganesh Singh
The 23 trainee technicians along with (from left) University of Guyana Faculty of Engineering and Technology Industrial Liaison Officer Anil James; Ministry of Education Deputy CEO (Technical) Dr Ritesh Tularam; MACORP Training Coordinator Weneta Pooran; MACORP President and General Manager German Consuegra; MACORP Human Resource Manager Neilson McKenzie; and MACORP Training Manager Miguel Oviedo
Guyana, Suriname can be regional leaders on food, energy security – Robert Persaud
Guyana’s Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud, believes that there are potential opportunities for Guyana and Suriname to work together on becoming regional leaders in areas such as food and energy security – a partnership that can be used as a cooperation model for the wider Caribbean.
He made these remarks during a panel discussion that focused on translating individual growth into collective regional advancement –an event of the International Business Conference (IBC) Guyana 2025 being held in Georgetown. Also on the panel were Guyana’s Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Susan Rodrigues, as well as Suriname’s Minister of Economic Affairs, Entrepreneurship and Technological Innovation Andrew Baasaron, and Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business and Cooperation Melvin Bouva.
Speaking about how Guyana’s foreign policy aligns with Suriname and other Caribbean Community (CARICOM) members to strengthen regional cooperation, Persaud highlighted that there are some areas where Guyana and Suriname, specifically, can twin their efforts and resources to support each other in becoming major regional leaders.
“We can be key leaders in dealing with the issue of food insecurity for the region,” he pointed out.
Currently, Guyana is already leading the CARICOM food and nutrition security initiative, 25 by 2025+5 – a plan to reduce the region’s high food import bill by 25 per cent by 2030 and bolster programmes for countries to produce their own food through support for farmers, businesses and the involvement of women and youth.
According to the Foreign Secretary, a lot of work has already been done in these areas across the region, but he noted that a collaboration between Guyana and Suriname could further enhance these efforts.
Shared resources
Similarly, he pointed out that the shared resources between the two neighbouring countries can also set an example for regional collaboration in the area of energy security.
“We know this region is very vulnerable to energy shocks, price shocks because of our dependency on import-
ed fuel. In Guyana’s case, we see ourselves as providing that solution in making the region much more energy secure,” he noted.
With Guyana being a leading oil and gas producer in the CARICOM region and Suriname an emerging producer, Persaud believes this will position the two countries to become major energy sources.
“This is another opportunity for Guyana and Suriname to integrate our energy ecosystems and to allow us to offer to the Caribbean and the CARICOM region some sort of solution or ease going forward in dealing with the issue of energy security… Those are some of the opportunities that have presented themselves for Guyana and Suriname to work together again and to showcase and offer that as a model for the wider Caribbean,” the Foreign Security posited.
Regional energy corridor
President Ali has long been pushing the establishment of a regional energy corridor. In fact, Guyana, Suriname and Brazil had already started talks on combining their ability to create an energy corridor and unlocking the potential for a series of manufacturing and industrial developments, with several other island nations in the Caribbean, including Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago, also previously expressing interest in the initiative.
With Suriname now forging ahead with its first off-
shore petroleum development project, high-level discussions were held earlier this year with senior officials from the Dutch-speaking nation and the Guyana Government.
On the side-lines of the Energy Conference, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo and Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat had met with Managing Director of Staatsolie –Suriname’s state-owned oil company, Annand Jagesar, to discuss that potential collaboration.
President Dr Irfaan Ali has always spoken often of a regional energy corridor as Guyana moves to monetise its gas resources, which will be an independent project from the model Gas-toEnergy (GtE) initiative that
is currently under construction at Wales, West Bank Demerara. The GtE project comprises a Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility and a 300-megawatt power plant utilising the rich natural gas from the Liza Fields in the Stabroek Block, offshore Guyana.
United States energy firm Fulcrum LNG Inc. has been selected to work in a tripartite arrangement with the Guyana Government and ExxonMobil to develop a potential gas project.
The Guyanese leader had previously proposed several projects that are being considered for this gas monetisation plan, including the export of energy to Northern Brazil, a deep-water port facility, an additional power plant, a fertiliser facility, a
data centre, and a potential joint aluminium plant facility using bauxite from both Guyana and Suriname. In the oil-rich Stabroek Block, which United States oil major ExxonMobil and its co-venturers are operating, some 17 trillion cubic feet of gas has already been found, with the Pluma and Haimara wells being proven gas fields. These wells will be tapped into with the Longtail Development Project, Exxon’s eighth development in the Stabroek Block.
Moreover, the United States oil giant’s seventh offshore development –the Hammerhead Project – also has massive gas resources, which the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government is looking to develop.
AG meets with banking sector to address issues in implementing Condo Act, other recently-passed laws
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall on Wednesday met with members of the banking and financial sectors to address certain legislative and regulatory concerns within the sector.
The Attorney General was accompanied by his colleagues, Minister of Housing Collin Croal, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Susan Rodrigues, Finance Secretary Sukkrishnalall Pasha, Registrar of Commerce Reza Manraj, and Head of the Financial Intelligence Unit Matthew Langevine.
The meeting addressed crucial concerns raised by the banking sector in respect of implementing certain aspects of the Security Interests in Movable Property Act 2024, the Electronic Communications and Transactions Act (ECTA) 2023 and the Condominium Act 2022.
All of these pieces of legislation were passed within
the last three years and are part of the Government’s aggressive legislative agenda to overhaul outdated laws and to bring new laws into conformity with the realities of modern banking and financial transactions.
These laws form an integral part of the Government’s deliberate agenda to promote ease of doing business in Guyana, given this country’s accelerated development trajectory.
This pace of development continues to occasion heavy, rapid local and foreign investments in the commercial, business, AML/CFT and infrastructural environments.
For these reasons, clarification was sought on, for example, the practical operationalisation of the Security Interests in Movable Property Act and stakeholder training thereunder; the use and acceptance of digital signatures under the ECTA in the execution of incorporation and other requisite banking doc-
uments; and the registration of mortgages for condominium units.
The clarifications sought were provided, and important timelines were agreed upon in respect of the full operationalisation of the Security Interests in Movable Property Act.
It was further agreed that guidelines will be dis-
seminated to assist the banking sector with the registration of mortgages in respect of condominium units.
The Attorney General also reminded that while all financial institutions are to continue to operate within the realm of the AML/ CFT Act and regulations, Guyana’s AML/CFT rating remains high based on the
most recent mutual evaluation.
In this regard, the banking sector was encouraged to work towards ensuring that it continues to embrace the Government’s agenda of ease of doing business by utilising Supervision Guideline 13, which reduces the level of requirements for the establishment of a bank
account.
As pointed out, ongoing reviews of the requirements are currently being undertaken, on the instructions of the Government, with the aim of further reducing the burden of doing business.
The meeting ended with commitments from both Government and the banking and financial sectors to strengthen dialogue and act upon gaps in legislation and the sector to ensure that the Government’s objective of ease of doing business in Guyana remains a crucial and achievable priority.
The meeting was also attended by high-level representatives of Republic Bank Guyana, Citizens Bank Guyana, Scotiabank Guyana, the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry, New Building Society, Bank of Baroda, Demerara Bank and the Bank of Guyana. This engagement was held as a follow-up to meetings held with President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali.
Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud
Also on the panel (from left): Suriname’s Minister of Economic Affairs, Entrepreneurship and
Technological Innovation Andrew Baasaron; Guyana’s Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Susan Rodrigues; Suriname’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business and Cooperation Melvin Bouva; and Guyana’s Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall and colleagues during his meeting with representatives of the local banking sector
MoA to set up $50M poultry project backed by youth investment, bank financing
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha on Tuesday led a team to visit the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) in Mon Repos, where several tunnel houses for poultry production are currently under construction.
The initiative was announced by President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali during a meeting with a group of young people at La Jalousie, Essequibo Islands–West Demerara, last year, and is poised to revolutionise poultry farming through the introduction of climate-smart
tunnel houses.
These innovative structures are designed to boost production and significantly reduce mortality rates.
While speaking with some of the beneficiaries at Mon Repos, Minister Mustapha said that all of the equipment procured to
Tourism Minister unveils holiday packages for visitors, returning Guyanese
Guyanese living abroad, as well as visiting foreigners, can look forward to a wellplanned Christmas holiday package that includes accommodation and guided tours to major attractions, such as Kaieteur Falls.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Tourism Susan Rodrigues during the recent disembarkation of passengers from the SH Vega cruise ship.
The Minister explained that the holiday package will combine city tours, visits to the Christmas Village on Main Street, and other local experiences in Georgetown, offering visitors a complete festive experience.
“We’re working on Christmas packages that include both accommodation and tours. For Guyanese returning home for Christmas or visitors coming to Guyana, they can expect a package that will take them to Kaieteur Falls. Additionally, we are working with tour operators to take them on city tours, to the Christmas Village on Main Street, and to incorporate other local tours here in Georgetown,” she said.
She emphasised that this initiative will not end this year but will be a continuous experience.
“What we are giving them is a full package for Christmas, and this holi-
day touring initiative will continue in the future,” she added.
In addition to the holiday packages, the Minister provided updates on preparations for GuyExpo 2025, noting that work is progressing smoothly. She revealed that nearly all 270 booths for the event, which will be held from November 13 to 16 at the National Exhibition Center in Sophia, have already been booked.
“This year is set to be different from previous editions,” the Minister said.
“We have improved the flow and layout of the Expo, and we’ve organised a business-to-business seminar in collaboration with GOInvest. This will allow local companies interested
in partnering with regional participants to make connections during the networking event.”
Minister Rodrigues also highlighted plans to celebrate GuyExpo’s 30th anniversary, honouring local companies that have been part of the event since its inception.
“We plan to make it really big and recognise the businesses that have supported GuyExpo over the past three decades,” she added.
She further acknowledged the support of the private sector, including the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce, who are part of the planning committee for the Expo.
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha told some of the beneficiaries at the site that by the end of the first quarter of 2026, all eight
set up the tunnel houses was now in Guyana and that by the end of the first quarter of 2026, all eight tunnel houses should become operational.
As part of the initiative, the Ministry of Agriculture has allocated five acres of land in the region to establish a state-of-the-art poultry farm. This high-tech ag-
ricultural tunnel house will form the foundation for a $50 million poultry production facility, capable of producing 45,000 chickens per batch.
The project will be co-funded by the youths, who will collectively contribute $10 million, with an additional $40 million in financing provided by the
banking sector at preferential interest rates as low as 4.5 per cent.
This initiative, which targets youths from several regions, forms part of a broader Government effort to encourage youth participation in agribusiness and to modernise the country’s agricultural practices.
Trump confirms he authorised CIA action inside Venezuela
United States (US) President Donald Trump has confirmed reports he authorised the CIA to conduct covert operations inside Venezuela – and said he was considering strikes targeting drug cartels there.
US forces have already conducted at least five strikes on suspected drug-carrying boats in the Caribbean in recent weeks, killing 27 people. United Nations (UN)-appointed human rights experts have described the raids as “extrajudicial executions”.
Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump said the US “is looking at land” as it considers further strikes in the region.
Trump has sought to increase pressure on President Nicolás Maduro, who the US and others do not recognise as Venezuela’s rightful leader following disputed elections.
The increased US military presence in the region has raised fears in Caracas of a possible attack.
According to the New York Times, Trump’s authorisation would allow the CIA to carry out operations in Venezuela unilaterally or as part of any wider US military activity.
It remains unknown whether the CIA is planning operations in Venezuela or whether those plans are being kept as contingencies.
Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office alongside
FBI Director Kash Patel and Attorney General Pam Bondi, Trump was questioned about the New York Times report.
“Why did you authorise the CIA to go into Venezuela?” a reporter asked.
“I authorised it for two reasons really,” Trump said in a highly unusual acknowledgement from a US commander-in-chief about a spy agency whose activities are typically shrouded in secrecy.
“Number one, they [Venezuela] have emptied their prisons into the United States of America.”
He added, “And the other thing is drugs. We have a lot of drugs coming in from Venezuela, and a lot of the Venezuelan drugs come in through the sea, so you get to see that, but we’re going
to stop them by land also.” The President declined to answer when asked whether the CIA authorisation would allow the agency to topple Maduro, for whom the US has offered a US$50 million bounty.
“Wouldn’t it be a ridiculous question for me to answer?” he said.
While Maduro’s Government has not commented on the CIA authorisation directly, VicePresident Delcy Rodriguez struck a defiant tone on television on Wednesday. She said, “Let no aggressor dare because they know that here are the people of [Venezuelan liberator Simón] Bolívar, that here are the people of our ancestors with their swords raised to defend us under any circumstance.” (Excerpt from BBC News)
tunnel houses should become operational
Climate-smart tunnel houses are designed to boost production and significantly reduce mortality rates
The Trump Administration has labelled multiple drug cartels from Venezuela and other Latin American countries as foreign terrorist organisations, citing in part the high death toll from fentanyl use in the United States
Tourism, Industry and Commerce
Minister Susan Rodrigues
Around the World OIL NEWS
Oil prices dip, staying near 5-month low on US-China trade tensions, looming supply surplus
Oil prices dipped on Wednesday, holding near a fivemonth low for a second day, pressured by escalating US-China trade tensions and the International Energy Agency's prediction of a supply surplus in 2026.
Brent crude futures fell 23 cents, or 0.4 per cent, to US$62.16 a barrel at 11:11h EDT. US West Texas Intermediate futures fell 14 cents, or 0.2 per cent, to US$58.56. Both benchmarks were headed for their lowest closes since May 7 for a second day in a row.
Bank of America said Brent prices could slip below US$50 a barrel if US-China trade tensions intensify while OPEC+ production ramps up.
On Tuesday, the IEA said the global oil market could face a surplus next year of up to 4 million barrels per day (bpd), wider than its previous forecast, as The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and Allies (OPEC+) and others raise output and demand remains sluggish.
On Tuesday, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell left the door open to further interest rate cuts and said the end of the central bank's long effort to shrink the size of its holdings may be near. Looser economic policies can boost economic growth and demand for oil.
Britain on Wednesday targeted Russia's two largest oil companies, Lukoil and Rosneft, and 51 shadow fleet tankers in what it described as a new bid to tighten energy sanctions and choke off Kremlin revenues.
Russia was the second-biggest producer of crude oil in the world after the US in 2024, according to US energy data. Any increase in sanctions due to Moscow's war with Ukraine should keep more of that oil out of global markets.
In Azerbaijan, oil output fell by 4.2 per cent to 20.7 million metric tonnes in January-September from 21.6 million metric tonnes a year earlier, the energy ministry said on Wednesday. Azerbaijan is a member of the OPEC+ group of countries. (Reuters)
US revokes visas over comments made about Charlie Kirk's death
The Trump Administration has cancelled the visas of at least six persons for public comments made about the murder of right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk.
In a post on X, the State Department said, "The United States has no obligation to host foreigners who wish death on Americans."
It shared screenshots of six social media posts which it said were examples of foreign visa holders welcoming Kirk's death in September and suggested further visa cancellations would follow.
Kirk, an ally of President Donald Trump, was shot dead while speaking at a university event in Utah.
"The State Department continues to identify visa holders who celebrated the heinous assassination of Charlie Kirk," the statement on Tuesday said.
Peru Judge strikes down bid to stop ousted President from leaving country
APeruvian Judge on Wednesday rejected a bid to prevent former President Dina Boluarte, whom Congress abruptly ousted last week, from leaving the country while state prosecutors investigate her for alleged abuse of office and money laundering.
Boluarte, one of the world's least popular leaders, left office with approval ratings ranging between
two per cent and four per cent amid growing unrest over insecurity, as transport workers and young people protested rising extortions and murders.
Judge Fernando Valdez struck down the request from Peru's State Prosecutor's Office in a hearing, arguing that Boluarte did not present a flight risk and the request was "unfounded".
Boluarte, who faces a series of criminal accusations, has denied wrongdoing.
Prosecutors had sought to prevent Boluarte from leaving the country over investigations that she allegedly collected money from a criminal group as well as the appointment of health officials linked to her rhinoplasty surgery in 2023.
Boluarte is accused of abandoning her post for two
weeks while she underwent a nose job without informing Congress. She is also facing corruption accusations over the origin of her collection of luxury Rolex watches.
Her Government is also accused of using excessive force during deadly protests in favour of her predecessor in the months that followed her taking up the presidency.
(Reuters)
Bangladesh garment factory fire kills at least 16
At least 16 persons have died after a huge fire broke out at a garment factory in Bangladesh, with officials warning that the toll could rise.
The 16 bodies have been recovered and will be handed to families after DNA testing, as they have been burnt beyond recognition, the fire service said.
The blaze, which broke out at the factory around midday, was extinguished after three hours. But an adjacent chemical warehouse continued to burn, authorities said.
Up until 21:00h local time (15:00 GMT) on
Tuesday, the fire at the chemical warehouse in Mirpur had not been com-
pletely doused, media reports said.
Fire service officials
have not ascertained which of the two buildings caught fire first. According to eyewitnesses, the chemical warehouse stored bleaching powder, plastic and hydrogen peroxide, all of which can intensify fires. Plastic also releases toxic fumes when burnt.
Most of the deaths were caused by toxic gas and the building's roof door being locked, the fire service said.
Fire service director Mohammad Tajul Islam Chowdhury told local media the victims probably died "instantly" after inhaling "highly toxic gas".
(Excerpt from BBC News)
1 dead after vehicle explodes outside Ecuador shopping mall
sives hidden inside a car parked outside the Litoral prison in Guayaquil.
The mayor of Guayaquil, Aquiles Álvarez, linked Tuesday's blast to previous attempted attacks.
He told local media that the aim of the "terrorist group" behind them was to try and force the authorities into releasing jailed members of their group. (Excerpt from BBC News)
It is unclear when the department revoked the visas and what type of visa each person held.
While they have not been named, South African national Nhlamulo Baloyi told media, including Reuters and the Washington Post, that his visa had been revoked.
He said he had written one of the posts shared by the State Department. In the post, he said, "Kirk won't be remembered as a hero" and described his followers as "trailer trash".
He added that he received confirmation last week that his business visa had been revoked.
The announcement of the visa cancellations came the same day as President Trump posthumously awarded Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom. (Excerpt from BBC News)
The six people who had their visas revoked were from Argentina, South Africa, Mexico, Brazil, Germany and Paraguay, according to the department.
At least one person was killed when a pickup truck exploded outside a shopping mall in Ecuador's largest city, Guayaquil, on Tuesday evening local time.
Ecuador's Interior Minister John Reimberg said Police had found explosive devices inside the remains of the truck.
Police also carried out a controlled blast after finding a second car containing explosives parked nearby, according to Reimberg.
The Minister blamed criminal gangs for the deadly attack.
"The devices were professionally manufactured by criminal groups aiming to sow chaos," he wrote on
The explosive-laden truck had been parked outside the city's main shopping centre, Mall del Sol, in the north of the port city. Several luxury hotels are located nearby.
Witnesses described seeing the vehicle go up in flames before it exploded minutes later, sending pieces of metal flying through the vicinity.
A taxi driver who had been parked near the truck was killed, and several other bystanders were injured. Reimberg said Police found a total of four explosive devices.
The blast comes days after Police defused a gas cylinder packed with explo-
US Judge blocks Trump's plan to lay off thousands of Government workers
Afederal Judge in California on Wednesday ordered President Donald Trump's Administration to halt mass layoffs during a partial Government shutdown while she considers claims by unions that the job cuts are illegal.
During a hearing in San Francisco, US District Judge Susan Illston granted a request by two unions to block layoffs at more than 30 agencies pending further litigation.
Her ruling came shortly after White House Budget Director Russell Vought said on "The Charlie Kirk Show" that more than 10,000 federal workers could lose their jobs because of the shutdown, which entered its 15th day on Wednesday.
Illston at the hearing cited a series of public statements by Trump and Vought that she said showed explicit political motivations for the layoffs, such as Trump say-
ing that cuts would target "Democrat agencies".
"You can't do that in a nation of laws. And we have laws here, and the things that are being articulated here are not within the law," said Illston, an appointee of Democratic former President Bill Clinton. Illston said she agreed with the unions that the administration was unlawfully using the lapse in Government funding that began October 1 to carry out its agenda of downsizing the federal Government.
The White House said last week that it had begun substantial layoffs across the United States Government, as Trump followed through on a threat to cut the federal workforce during the Government shutdown.
About 4100 workers at eight agencies have been notified that they are being laid off so far, according to a Tuesday court filing by the administration.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
The pick-up truck was parked in front of a popular shopping mall in Guayaquil
Smoke rising from the burning chemical warehouse and garment factory in Dhaka on Tuesday
You know what others expect, so do your part and move along. Trying to avoid the inevitable will weigh you down mentally and emotionally. Get your priorities straight.
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Even out the playing field if you want to compete. Observe any competition or situation that might compromise you and adjust accordingly before engaging. Preparation is key to getting what you want.
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Take nothing for granted. Tidy up loose ends and buy yourself time to relax and enjoy life. Walk away from no-win situations and indulgent temptation. Choose to work on yourself instead of trying to change others.
Refuse to let emotions stand between you and greatness. You have plenty to offer by allowing yourself room to grow. Be confident, and make changes for yourself, not for others.
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Think twice before you implement change. Take the initiative to source the best instruction and help possible. Use common sense and consult experts to avoid setbacks.
ARCHIE
Pakistan will never know, and England won't want to know after they escaped what had threatened to be the upset this World Cup craved, thanks to the start of the Colombo monsoon.
ICC Women's World Cup
Rain rescues England after Sana and co leave them in deep water Rain rescues England after Sana and co leave them
Both teams took a point – Pakistan's first from four matches and England's moving them to the top of the table, leading Australia on net run rate – after what had shaped as a thriller ended in a washout, the second in as many days at the R Premadasa Stadium.
But it is Pakistan who should hold their heads high after a devastating opening spell from their Captain Fatima Sana, who put England on the canvas at 78 for 7 before a 47-run stand for the eighth wicket between Charlie Dean and Em Arlott dragged them to 133 for 9 in 31 overs.
Sohail scored an unbeaten 19 off 18 balls
Chasing a DuckworthLewis-Stern (DLS)adjusted target of 113, Pakistan were well in control, reaching 34 without loss after 6.4 overs before heavy showers returned to end the match prematurely.
England, unbeaten heading into the match, were without their spin and
seam-bowling spearheads when Sophie Ecclestone and Lauren Bell were ruled out through illness and replaced by legspinner Sarah Glenn and seamer Arlott.
around three hours and 45 minutes, play resumed with England needing to bat out another six overs, during which time they added 54 runs, thanks largely to Arlott and Dean.
Pakistan have never beaten England in One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and have just one win against them in T20 Internationals (T20Is) in 2013, which only added to their sense of what might have been had the weather not intervened.
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But it was their misfiring batting line-up that came unstuck. Of England's recognised batters, only Nat SciverBrunt, with a century in the previous match against Sri Lanka in Colombo and Heather Knight, with a gritty 79 not out that rescued England from the threat of another upset at the hands of Bangladesh, had been in the runs since England chased down a paltry target of 70 without loss in their opening game with South Africa.
Arlott, who had impressed England Head Coach Charlotte Edwards with a century at the start of the domestic season and went on to make her international debut during the English summer, was run out for 18 off 23 balls in the penultimate over while Dean expertly picked gaps in the field to top-score with 33 before becoming Sana's fourth wicket, scooping to Omaima Sohail at short fine leg.
Earlier, openers Tammy Beaumont and Amy Jones continued to struggle and
both departed inside the first three overs of the match. Beaumont left a dazzling nip-backer from Diana Baig to her peril as the ball clipped the off bail, leaving her with scores of 21 not out against South Africa followed by 13, 32, and 4 so far.
Jones, meanwhile, helped herself to two fours off Sana's first over before the latter produced a superb nip-backer which clattered into the top of middle and off, Jones departing for a second single-figure score in three innings.
Knight, who had three dismissals overturned against Bangladesh, challenged an lbw decision in Sana's next over and replays showed the ball was missing down the leg side. She also survived a hopeful Pakistan review for lbw two balls later when the ball was tracking outside off.
But Sana's biggest and best wicket was arguably that of Sciver-Brunt, done by yet another one that nipped back off the seam. She shaped to cut only for the ball to slide under her glove and onto the top of middle stump.
Knight tried her luck once more when she was rapped on the pad by Sana,
but, with the ball on target to hit the top of leg stump, England were left floundering at 38 for 4.
Sadia Iqbal chimed in for the spinners when she bowled an out-ofsorts Emma Lamb, sitting back in her crease to an arm ball that dipped and slid through her defences. Lamb had entered the World Cup in great form with half-centuries in warm-up games against India and Australia, but she is another England batter yet to reach 20 at this tournament.
Likewise, Sophia Dunkley, who was removed for 11 via a successful review when she was struck on the pad attempting to sweep with the ball homing in on leg stump as Iqbal celebrated her second wicket and England lurched to 57 for 6 in the 12th over.
Alice Capsey, on 8, swept Rameen Shamim's first delivery, a low full toss, straight to square leg where Muneeba Ali shelled a simple chance. But Shamim had Capsey lbw for 16 when she missed a sweep shortly before the rain arrived for the first time, with England 79 for 7 after 25 overs.
After a stoppage of
Sohail had not played since her first-ball duck in Pakistan's defeat to Bangladesh in their opening game, but, recalled to bolster a batting line-up which – apart from Sidra Amin – had proved fragile at this event, she marshalled Pakistan's pursuit here, easing to 19 off 18. She was supported by Muneeba, who remained unbeaten on 9.
Pakistan's performance offered some encouragement for a side that also had Australia 76 for 7 before losing by 107 runs, although that may well be an empty consolation.
For England, it is a sharp reality check for a side which perhaps has not fully exorcised the demons of a year ago, where their shortcomings under pressure knocked them out of another global showcase. (ESPNcricinfo)
Fatima Sana picked up
Omaima
Munisar’s 5-wicket haul in vain as Young Warriors beat Rose Hall Canje
Warriors lost seven wickets and ended on 188-7 in 31 overs.
Munisar kept her side in the hunt throughout, ending with 5-47. The classy opener Ricardo Ramdeholl set the tone in the chase, scoring 40. He was supported by Sanjay Khan, who made 35, and the experienced Kassim Khan, a former national youth player, who made 31. Munisar continues to ply her trade for the Rose Hall Canje Cricket Club among male cricketers, and her career has seen immense growth in a short period of time.
Since the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) organises a limited number of female matches locally, the girls from Berbice often play among the males, and they have shown to be a cut above the rest.
Munisar was the joint leading wicket-taker in the Massy Women's Caribbean Premier League, where she had eight wickets.
At 21 years old, Munisar has already featured in 11 Women's T20 and six One-Day Internationals for the West Indies. She is also an integral member of the Guyana senior women's team.
GDF sounds early warning in build-up to Terrence Poole Intermediate
Boxing Championships
Defending champions the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Boxing Gym is once again setting its sights on glory as it prepares for its title defence at the upcoming Guyana Boxing Association’s Terrence Poole National Intermediate Boxing Championships, scheduled for October 25 to October 27.
Head Coach Eon Bancroft has expressed confidence in the team’s readiness, despite some early logistical challenges.
“It’s going quite fine. Training is going on,” Bancroft shared as his charges intensified their preparations. “The only hiccup was that some of the boxers were a bit limited earlier on, because of activities in the Force, but we’re working on that. We also had a few
army activities going on, so not everyone was able to get into the programme right away. This week, though, training is expected to get tougher as we gear up for the championships.”
The GDF Gym enters the tournament as a dominant force in local amateur boxing, holding titles in the national novice, intermediate, and open divisions. Bancroft, who has been part of several successful campaigns over the years with GDF, remains confident in his team’s ability to maintain its winning tradition.
“We are prepared and on schedule,” he said. “Once we get everyone in and train properly, we’ll be in good shape. My expectation is simple, perform well and bring away the championship. We’re basically head-
Ronoca Concrete cements sponsorship for RBL League
ing to another victory.”
This year’s championships hold special significance as they are being staged in honour of the late Terrence Poole, the long-serving Technical Director of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA). Poole, who passed away in October 2024, was a towering figure in local boxing for more than four decades. He served as a coach, coordinator, and mentor to hundreds of athletes, including many from the GDF Gym, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the sport.
With the tournament fast approaching, Bancroft and his team are focused on fine-tuning their strategies, sharpening their conditioning, and ensuring the GDF maintains its reputation as a powerhouse in the ring.
In a significant boost to the Petra Organisation’s grassroots football programmes, Ronoca Concrete Inc, a leading supplier of construction materials and aggregates, has officially cemented its partnership with the Petra Organisation to host the highly-anticipated 2025 Republic Bank Under-18 Secondary School Football League.
The announcement was formalised on Tuesday during a simple yet significant handover ceremony at the company's Plantation Diamond location.
The event, which saw Ronoca representative Padma Seegobin facilitate the contribution, underscores Ronoca's commitment to building a stronger community, not just with concrete and aggregates, but through tangible support for young athletic talent.
This timely investment from Ronoca Concrete affirms its dedicated support for the upcoming sixth edition of the Republic Bank Football League, adding a new layer of excitement and corporate backing to the nation's premier schoolboy football competition.
The League is officially slated to kick off this Sunday, October 19, at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground located on Carifesta Avenue, Georgetown. The action is set to kick off at 10:00h with a vibrant march-past ceremony, setting the stage for the intense competition to follow.
This year's tournament will feature an elite field of eight top schools from across the country, all in pursuit of football supremacy. The stakes are higher than ever, as the top two finishers will earn the prestigious right to represent Guyana at the
upcoming KFC Goodwill International School Football Series this December.
The schools that have secured their spots in this year’s championship are a mix of regional champions and Georgetown powerhouses, including Abram Zuil Secondary (Region Two); Three Miles Secondary (Region Seven); President’s College (Region Four); South Ruimveldt Secondary (Georgetown); West Ruimveldt Secondary (Georgetown); Dolphin Secondary (Georgetown); Charlestown Secondary (Georgetown) and defending champions Chase’s Academic Foundation (Georgetown). With such a diverse and talented line-up, the battle for the title promises to be fiercely contested. The Petra Organisation noted that the official fixtures would be disclosed in the coming days.
The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Gym is ready to rumble at the Terrence Poole Intermediate Boxing Championships
Ashmini Munisar claimed five wickets among male cricketers in Berbice
Ronoca Concrete Inc’s Padma Seegobin makes a presentation to Petra Organisation Co-Director Troy Mendonca
President Ali hammers India’s “control” and “market dominance” in T20 cricket
President Dr Irfaan Ali, in a fiery statement on Tuesday night, hammered India’s “control through exclusion and market dominance” in the cricket world.
Recognising India and its T20 league as a “superpower”, the Guyanese Head of State did not hold back on highlighting how mishandling such power could backfire.
He wrote in a social media post, “Dominance on the global stage comes with responsibilities that cannot be ignored. India has undeniably risen as the superpower of world cricket. It has done so not just in talent, but in technology, resources, infrastructure, finance, and administration. Simply put, India holds the cricketing nuclear button.
“Yet, I am convinced that the strategy of locking out their players from participating in other leagues will ultimately backfire. Yes, the Indian market is the largest consumer of cricket, but the global landscape is shifting. Nations like Saudi Arabia are investing strate-
gically in sports, and such long-term diversification can quickly reshape the balance of power in cricket.
“India must urgently reconsider its approach. Control through exclusion and market dominance may yield short-term gains, but an open, level playing field is the only sustainable model for long-term growth. How India wields this period of dominance will define its place in cricketing history.
“We in the West Indies once ruled the game, creating value wherever we played. Kapil Dev himself can attest to the inspiration he drew from our cricketing spirit in Guyana – a spirit that fuelled India’s first World Cup triumph. He was quoted as saying, “I think it was wonderful. That’s where I would say India’s Cricket One Day journey started, where we beat West Indies. West Indies, during that time, was a team nobody could dream to come close to them, and we beat them in West Indies, right here in Guyana.”
“Just as the West Indies
once inspired greatness in others, including a young Indian team in Guyana, we now have an opportunity to inspire a new era of global cricket, one built on collaboration rather than isolation.
“I have extended Guyana’s partnership in building a truly global Super League. Simply reviving the Champions League on its own, without meaningful partnership, is uninspiring and short-sighted. I call on the English Cricket Board, once familiar with the heights of dominance, to join this effort, for it understands better than anyone how swiftly fortune can turn and how essential it is to embrace a vision that strengthens the game for all.”
President Ali’s statement, particularly his utterances on the Global Super League model comes months after he took note that Guyana’s GSL T20 was ruffling feathers around the world, following the announcement that the Indian and English cricket boards were looking to resuscitate the T20 Champions League.
Warm-up track at NTFC nearing completion
The warm-up track at the National Track and Field Center (NTFC), West Coast Demerara (WCD) is 90 per cent completed, a social media post from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport indicated on Wednesday.
According to the post, Subject Minister Charles Ramson Jr recently inspected ongoing works at the Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) facility, where the synthetic material is being laid in the south-western corner.
Minister Ramson Jr updated that the warm-up track is on schedule for completion in a few weeks.
According to the Ministry, “The construction of the warmup track at the facility improves Guyana's ability to host international track and field events and is in keeping with His Excellency President Irfaan Ali's vision to advance Guyana as a leading global destination for international events.”
President Dr Irfaan Ali alongside India legend Kapil Dev during a visit by the latter to Guyana
Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr inspects the warm-up track