Top Cop warns cops against misconduct, criminal activities
…ranks urged to pursue higher education programmes
With more than 20 police ranks currently before the courts on criminal charges, Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken has issued a stern warning against engaging in criminal activity or inappropriate behaviour. Referring to the number of officers already before the courts, Commissioner Hicken said this should serve as a warning to others, noting that stricter accountability measures will be enforced in the coming year.
“Maintain the posture that we give to you. We
have about 25 people before the court already. We don’t want to add more to it. And so next year, it will be strict accountability. In fact, quarterly monitoring and evaluation commenced this last quarter and next year it’s going to be more serious,” he said. He cautioned officers against operating without oversight, stressing that increased monitoring will be enforced across regions.
“Don’t think that you’re in a region and you’re doing your own thing. You might just see a message coming
through for you to report to headquarters for development, meaning you are not on par,” the commissioner added. Addressing concerns about the reputation of the Force, Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken urged ranks to conduct themselves responsibly, particularly during the festive season. He cautioned officers against engaging in any behaviour that could tarnish the image or performance of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), reminding them to priorities their safety and profession-
Higher education
Meanwhile, Commissioner Hicken encouraged ranks to further their education, noting that officers without basic certificates in Mathematics and English are being given the opportunity to enrol in free classes offered by the Government.
alism. The commissioner also encouraged officers to make responsible choices when socialising, advising them to arrange designated drivers when going out and to always uphold the standards expected of police officers, both on and off duty. “We’re in the festive season. Please do not do anything to tarnish our performance. Please do not do anything to tarnish the reputation of the organisation. When you leave here, go home safely. If you’re going out with friends, get a driver. Ensure you do the right thing as policemen and women,” he urged. Amidst this he also extended Christmas greetings on behalf of himself and his family, as well as other officers who were unable to attend the event.
Police ranks present at the award ceremony
Top Cop Clifton Hicken
Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond (centre) among Guyana Police Force officials
BRIDGE OPENING
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, December 16 –14:10h-15:40h and Wednesday, December 17 – 14:45h-16:15h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Light to thundery showers, along with sunny conditions, are expected throughout the day. Partly cloudy to clear skies are expected at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.
Winds: Easterly to East North-Easterly between 3.13 metres and 5.36 metres.
High Tide: 14:01h reaching a maximum height of 2.38 metres.
Low Tide: 07:34h and 20:03h reaching minimum heights of 0.95 metre and 0.82 metre.
Education Ministry to launch teacher appraisals, school
The Education Ministry is preparing to roll out a teacher appraisal system, national school report cards and school rankings as part of a broader push to strengthen quality, accountability and leadership across Guyana’s education system.
The initiatives, expected to be launched over the coming weeks, were outlined by Chief Education Officer (CEO) Saddam Hussain on Monday, as he acknowledged that while the past five years focused heavily on expanding access, the next phase of education reform must prioritise performance, leadership and measurable outcomes. One of the most significant measures to be reintroduced is the appraisal of teachers, which has been absent from the system for more than five years.
According to the CEO, the renewed appraisal framework will form part of a wider accountability structure designed to assess actual performance, rather than simply administrative compliance. “For the next five years, the emphasis definitely has to be on quality that we get within those schools. And of course, accountability. Again, it has to be quality and accountability… and it would be remiss of us to have report cards for schools, if we don’t have report cards also for the departments of education. And so this must also happen. In addition, you will see the Ministry of Education ranking the schools, ranking primary and secondary schools across the country,” he said. “So when there
is a clamor for a particular school, then it’s based on the ranking and not necessarily what we think the good schools are. You will also see very shortly the launch of the CPD (Continuous Professional Development) policy, the continuous professional development policy for all teachers,” the CEO said. Further strengthening transparency, the MOE will begin ranking primary and secondary schools nationwide, a move intended to replace perception-based as-
sumptions with data-driven decision-making.
Leadership challenges
The CEO was candid in acknowledging longstanding leadership challenges within the education system, describing a culture where administrative record-keeping has sometimes taken precedence over active school leadership. “We are tired of going to schools and hearing that teachers are not talking to each other. Teachers are not talking to parents.
Teachers are not talking to the community. And so we hope that the training that is provided here will remove those kinds of issues. How do we get parents involved? How do we make the school appealing? How do we make the school appealing to parents?... I think what has happened is that the Ministry’s previous system of looking at certain things, looking at records rather than actual performance, have made our leaders into what we call in common parlance paper tigers. And so, what you have happening is that leadership is sometimes missing from the school itself,” he explained. Earlier this year, it was revealed that about 30 to 40 per cent of the 14,000 teachers across the country are absent daily from classrooms. Back in September, Minister of Education Sonia Parag revealed that during impromptu school visits to schools, she observed teacher absenteeism that has left students without guidance. Following this observation, the Minister has underscored the urgent need for greater accountability among teachers.
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New direction for Guyana’s education system
The formal launch of the National Education Leadership Academy (NELA) marks a consequential moment in the evolution of Guyana’s education system. For decades, reform efforts have focused largely on access, infrastructure, and curriculum renewal. The creation of a permanent, structured mechanism to cultivate leadership within schools and the wider education bureaucracy signals a recognition that systems do not improve by policy alone, but by the quality of leadership charged with translating policy into daily practice.
Education leadership has long been an underdeveloped pillar of reform across the region. Principals, senior teachers, and education officers are frequently promoted on the basis of tenure or subject mastery, rather than structured preparation for leadership. The result is a system in which capable educators are often expected to manage complex institutions, personnel, data, and student welfare with limited formal training. The establishment of NELA directly confronts this gap by positioning leadership development as a continuous, institutional responsibility rather than an ad hoc or donor-driven exercise.
The design of the Academy reflects an understanding of the realities of modern education management. By embedding NELA within the national system and delivering training primarily online, the programme acknowledges both geographic dispersion and professional workload. The inclusion of face-to-face workshops ensures that leadership development is not reduced to abstract theory, but remains grounded in collaboration, mentorship, and applied problem-solving. This blended approach is especially important in a system as diverse as Guyana’s, where school contexts range from densely-populated urban centres to remote hinterland communities.
Drawing participants from across regions and administrative levels recognises that leadership is not confined to head teachers or central ministry offices. Heads of departments, senior masters and mistresses, education officers, and aspiring administrators all play decisive roles in shaping school culture, instructional quality, and accountability. The deliberate inclusion of participants from hinterland regions addresses a historic imbalance in professional development opportunities and signals an intention to cultivate leadership that reflects the country’s full geographic and cultural diversity.
However, the success of NELA will depend not on its launch, but on its long-term impact. Leadership academies can easily become symbolic initiatives if they are not tightly linked to system outcomes. For NELA to fulfil its promise, graduates must be empowered to apply new skills within their institutions, supported by clear authority, accountability mechanisms, and ongoing mentorship. Without this alignment, training risks becoming a credential rather than a catalyst for change.
The emphasis on leadership as a driver of classroom quality and student well-being is particularly timely. Guyana has invested heavily in school infrastructure over recent years, improving physical access and learning environments. The next phase of reform must focus on what happens inside those classrooms: instructional quality, student engagement, safety, and inclusion. Effective leadership is the connective tissue between policy ambition and classroom reality. School leaders shape expectations, support teachers, use data to guide decisions, and establish environments in which students feel safe and valued.
Equally important is the framing of leadership as an ethical and service-oriented responsibility. The call for leaders to act with integrity, champion inclusion, and centre learners in decision-making reflects an understanding that technical competence alone is insufficient. Education leadership carries moral weight. Decisions taken by school administrators affect not only academic outcomes, but students’ sense of belonging, security, and possibility. In a society undergoing rapid economic and social transformation, schools are among the most influential spaces shaping the next generation.
International support from partners such as the Global Partnership for Education, the Inter-American Development Bank, and UNESCO lends credibility and technical depth to the initiative. Yet sustained national ownership will be essential. Leadership development must not be episodic or dependent on external funding cycles. The Ministry’s commitment to positioning NELA as a permanent fixture suggests an awareness that reform is a long-term undertaking requiring consistency and institutional memory.
There is also a broader implication for public sector reform. By treating leadership development as a strategic investment rather than a peripheral activity, the education sector sets a precedent for other areas of governance. Systems improve when leadership pipelines are intentional, inclusive, and aligned with national priorities.
The launch of the National Education Leadership Academy, therefore, represents more than a training programme. It is a statement about the kind of education system Guyana seeks to build – one where leadership is cultivated deliberately, exercised responsibly, and measured by its impact on schools and students. The true test will lie in whether stronger leadership translates into stronger schools, more confident teachers, and learners equipped not only with knowledge, but with belief in their own potential.
A time for compassion
By Jean Lowrie-Chin
Having committed certain crimes which [Jamaican] Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Delroy Chuck describes as “an awful moment of madness, a bad discretion, a poor judgment”, convicted individuals who have already paid their debt to society and are rehabilitated have been shunned and denied employment and travel opportunities. He was addressing the House of Representatives last Tuesday as he closed the debate on the amendments to the Criminal Records (Rehabilitation of Offenders) Act. Eligibility for deserving individuals has been expanded to include those who have served sentences of up to 10 years, previously expungement was only available to those who had served up to five years.
In the Jamaica Information Service report by Latonya Linton, Minister Chuck noted, “…The truth of the matter is that the vast majority, perhaps more than 90 per cent of persons who have been convicted for crime, it is the one and only offence. Therefore, it is really important that those persons who feel that no one should get a second chance… reconsider their position.”
The Minister explained that the expungement process is not available to dangerous and unrepentant criminals as “this would send the wrong signal”. The expungement process is no walk in the park. The board has been almost doubled, and several factors will be
considered: “the nature and gravity of the offence, social enquiry and psychological reports, demonstrated remorse or restitution, and the age of the individual at the time of the offence”.
Further, another amendment allows for “automatic expungement for certain old, non-custodial convictions. Specifically, it applies to offences with non-custodial sentences imposed and satisfied before January 1, 2005, where no subsequent conviction has occurred.”
The amendments were passed by the House, heralding full freedom for those who can prove that they have turned their lives around and no longer pose any level of danger to society. Please spread this positive news which will open new opportunities for the advancement of citizens who deserve a second chance.
Hardship pension withdrawals
Sanya Goffe, President of the Pension Industry Association, is calling for access by Jamaican employees and employers to pension funds so they can fast-track hurricane recovery. This would be made possible if the Government fast-tracks the Pensions Bill, which would allow for hardship withdrawals.
“Hurricane Melissa has placed thousands of Jamaicans under sudden financial strain. Families need immediate support, yet there is still no legal framework that allows controlled, emergency access to a small portion of their pension savings,” said Goffe in a Jamaica Observer report.
“These provisions were designed precisely for circumstances like this. We now need the legislation to match the reality on the ground.”
“We are not advocating for unrestricted access. We are advocating for a clear, well-controlled mechanism that gives families temporary breathing room without compromising their retirement security,” she explained.
This sounds like simple common sense, and it would be a shame if our legislators do not act swiftly. Surely, in a time of distress, people should have access to some of their hard-earned funds.
Heroes in our midst
Scean Barnswell, People’s National Party councillor for the Hayes Division in Clarendon and his wife Danielle have been hailed as heroes for rescuing missing six-year-old Anka Glasgow, last week.
The couple had been driving along the Bustamante Highway when they spotted a man holding the hand of a small child and became suspicious as they had received an alert in their WhatsApp group about a missing little girl.
Danielle said she asked her husband to drive a little closer so she could see if the child matched the photo which had been circulated. When she confirmed, her husband blocked the man and rescued the child, and then turned him in to the Police.
An interview with the child’s mother revealed how the child behaved while she was taken away from the
private prep school that she attended. The child told her mother that she was so frightened that she “lost her voice”. She said she was crying as the abductor led her through bushes and when he told her to be quiet, she began to pray silently. Her prayers were not in vain, as her kind rescuers were sent before any physical harm could come to her.
Congratulations to the caring Barnswells and to the great parents who nurtured their child’s faith.
Shirley Pryce, founder of the Household Workers Union, has been reporting on the heart-rending conditions facing her members in the hurricane-affected parishes. We know that household workers live marginal lives in depressed areas. One can only imagine how badly hit they were.
Pryce says that many have been injured, including a member of her executive, who broke her leg as she ran from her collapsing dwelling seeking shelter.
Many thanks to Food For the Poor Jamaica executives Kivette Silvera and Marsha Burell-Rose who responded quickly with hundreds of care packages for the deserving workers.
It will not be an easy Christmas for our friends and families in hurricane-affected parishes. Let us give generously this season. Make your Christmas count and have a fulfilling new year. (Excerpted from Jamaica Observer) (Jean Lowrie-Chin is an author and executive chair of PROComm, PRODEV, and CCRP)
Retouching work is carried out on a Christmas tree made from two tonnes of soap, in Roumieh, north-east of the Lebanese capital. Carved by one of Lebanon’s most renowned soap makers, it is thought to be the first of its kind in the world. After Christmas, the tree will be dismantled and the soap donated to Christian and Muslim orphanages (Photograph: Wael Hamzeh/EPA)
The law describes Azruddin Mohamed as a fugitive offender
Dear Editor, I wish to thank Mr Surujdai Juglall for his letter to the editor published in the December 15, 2025 edition in the media under the caption “Mohamed’s conduct is inconsistent with the Attorney General’s definition of fugitivity.”
The gravamen of the letter is Mr Juglall’s umbrage with my description of Mr Azruddin Mohamed as a fugitive offender. Based upon what I have seen elsewhere, Mr Juglall is not singular in his misapprehensions of that phrase. Therefore, it is necessary that I set the public record straight.
My use of the term fugitive offender in describing Mr Mohamed is directly referrable to the governing legislation on the matter: the Fugitive Offenders Act, Cap. 10:04.
The Long Title of the Act reads “An Act to make provision with respect to the extradition of fugitive offenders from and to Guyana and
for matters connected therewith.” Section 2 of the Act defines a “fugitive offender” as “a person who is accused, or alleged to be unlawfully at large after conviction, of an extraditable offence committed within the jurisdiction of Guyana or any Commonwealth country or foreign territory and is or is suspected to be in any country or territory, other than the country or territory in which the offence was committed or the person was convicted.”
I have taken the liberty to underline the relevant words in the definition applicable to Mr Mohamed, for easy reading. In short, it is the law that describes Mr Mohamed as a fugitive offender. I sincerely hope that this brief note will now put the matter to rest.
Yours faithfully, Mohabir Anil Nandlall SC, MP Attorney General & Minister of Legal Affairs
Another major achievement – GTTC
Dear Editor,
Here it is! The “Construction of Guyana (first) Technical Training College” is a done deal. It is fully completed. This GTTC campus is located in Port Mourant, Region Six, but is not to be thought of as a parochial entity. According to President Irfaan Ali, “… the facility is now fully prepared to welcome students in January (as) the campus features a state-of-the-art Facility Simulator (FacTor), practical workshops, lecture rooms, and administrative offices, among other modern amenities.” He added that “It is designed to deliver hands-on, industry-relevant training that will equip students with essential technical skills, strengthening Guyana’s workforce and supporting the country’s rapidly expanding oil and gas sector.” Indeed, this realisation is very vital and I am glad for all of us in the country.
May I remind us that training is absolutely essential for working in any oil and gas sector, as it directly impacts safety, ensures regulatory compliance, improves operational efficiency, and offers significant career benefits. As regards ‘career benefits,’ we must always bear in mind that ‘certified’ training is well-established globally. People have to be accredited, and this college has that all-important role to play in Guyana’s developing landscape. We know that investing in training and skill development can lead to better job opportunities, career pro-
Guyanese deserve better than GHK Lall’s tired refrain
Dear Editor, I seek your indulgence to respond to a December 12 column in the Kaieteur News titled ‘Pres. Ali – one who surrenders self-respect’ and written by GHK Lall – an individual who has made a career out of writing the same column in different words for almost five years. The piece was yet another assault on President Irfaan Ali – a daily practice of Lall who over the past five years has attempted, in futility, to dent the credibility of the President and his Government.
Using his predictable writing formula, Lall makes sweeping pronouncements devoid of evidence, critical thought, and analysis. For instance, he asserts that: “the only person… who twinned those [the 2025] elections as being free and fair was Dr Irfaan Ali.”
fail his test.
It is customary in democratic systems for election observer groups to highlight concerns which they use as a basis to make recommendations to improve electoral systems – systems which continuously evolve based on the very recommendations of observer groups. It is not uncommon in any part of the world. But Lall, being the theatrical writer that he is, stretches those concerns and recommendations into a wholesale condemnation that none of the observer groups made in relation to the 2025 general and regional elections.
which only Lall approves of.
Regarding access to information, the PPP/C Government has published more data, more sectoral reports, more procurement disclosures, and more project-level details than any Government in the history of Guyana; while public officials including the President and Ministers of Government remain accessible to the press on a daily basis. This is a simple fact which Lall himself would be unable to dispute.
becoming his President one day.
Editor, it was also astonishing to read Lall – who has established a prolific letter-writing career through the local press – lamenting Guyana being “bitterly polarised” when for five years polarisation has been the oxygen that fuels his pieces. This gentleman has written daily for five years as though Guyana is perpetually on the brink, permanently degraded, and irredeemably hopeless.
gression and increased earning potential. A well-trained professional is a valuable asset to an employer, which can enhance job security, especially in today’s competitive market.
At the level of the United Nations, all affiliated bodies, particularly the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), keep emphasising the need for comprehensive training in the oil and gas sector. This is driven by requirements for safety, environmental compliance (especially methane mitigation), skills development for new technologies, and ensuring a “just transition” for the workforce during the global energy transition. What this says to me is that Guyana is adhering to Best Practices and our people can and will be a major force internationally.
In fact, it is predicted that over the next decade or so, Guyana could very well lead the world in growing its oil output. This is according to the International Energy Agency. Yes, there are challenges such as “… a lengthy to-do list to modernise the country, (in order to improve basic infrastructure and services and retain its educated workforce after historically suffering from a brain drain…” But more and more ‘do-ability’ is becoming a reality. I bet there is a lot more to come.
Yours truly, Hargesh B Singh
This, of course, is demonstrably untrue. None of the observer groups which include the European Union, Organisation of American States, CARICOM, and local civil society declared the elections fraudulent or lacking credibility. In fact, observer reports acknowledged several things including a peaceful process, a smoothly managed balloting day, and no evidence of rigging.
Lall’s insistence on hearing (or reading) the words ‘free and fair’ to conclude that the elections were credible does not suggest a flaw in the electoral process; rather, it exposes the limitations of his analytical abilities. By his standard, elections in even the most mature democracies would
In fact, the President’s remarks align with what the observer groups concluded: that GECOM conducted credible elections and the results reflected the will of the electorate – a fact which Lall seem unable to bring himself to accept after spending the last five years waging a brutal campaign against President Ali and the PPP/C Government.
Secondly, Lall’s accusation that the Government “operated under cover of darkness” to pass the Natural Resource Fund legislation has been repeated enough times that critics like him forget to check the record. The fact is that the bill was tabled in the National Assembly, debated, and voted on in accordance with our laws and parliamentary procedures. While he has a right to disagree with provisions of the legislation, suggesting that it was smuggled in at midnight is disingenuous. The standard for transparency is not determined by outcomes
He then goes on to suggest that the President “kowtows to foreign powers” – a comment which reveals either selective memory or a willingness to ignore inconvenient facts.
This is the same President who, in the past five years, has led a unified regional stance at CARICOM on the GuyanaVenezuela controversy and who secured international support from the OAS, Commonwealth, US, UK, CARICOM and other world powers on Guyana’s territorial integrity. It is the same President who positioned Guyana as a global leader on climate finance and low-carbon development, chaired global conversations on food and energy security and strengthened South - South partnerships far beyond what Guyana had previously achieved.
It is the same President whose leadership on the border controversy – and within a highly charged and complex international system – allows Lall to continue his daily vitriol against the Guyana Government without the fear of Maduro
But his disappointment and preferences cannot be a substitute for evidence; and the evidence points to a President who enjoys the confidence, love, admiration and respect of the Guyanese people, reflected in the overwhelming support he received at the polls just a few months ago.
On the other hand, Lall’s critique of the President is grounded in a personal worldview where PPP/C leaders are assumed to be weak, compromised, or deceitful unless they match his posture of permanent indignation.
Editor, criticism plays an essential role in democracy, and the President, along with his Government, should be subject to fair, evidence-based scrutiny. But Guyanese deserve quality commentary that fairly assesses the performance of our leaders and accurately reflects the reality of our country – not a tired refrain from a self-styled intellectual with privileged access to the press.
Yours faithfully, Ravin Singh
Page Foundation
Solid figures
A solid figure is a figure that has 3 dimensions. These are some common solid figures:
A sphere has no base, vertices, faces or edges. It is a figure with a curved surface; all points on the surface are equal distance from the centre.
Exercises: Identify the correct solid
Here are some terms that are used to describe solid figures:
Face: The flat surface of a solid figure. Each face looks like a 2-dimensional figure.
Edge: The line where two faces meet.
Vertex of a solid: A specific point at which more than two faces meet, or a point where a curve begins.
Base: The face on the bottom of a solid figure.
Example:
Look at the solid figures on this page.
A cube and a rectangular solid have 6 faces each. Any of the faces can be the base.
A square pyramid has five faces. The base is square and the other 4 faces are rectangular.
A cone has a circular base and 1 vertex. A cylinder has 2 circular faces and no vertex.
A triangular pyramid has a triangular base, 4 vertices, 4 faces and 6 edges.
Light and colour come together in this beautiful Advent window decoration craft! Inspired by the candles of Advent, which represent hope, peace, joy, and love, this stained glass-style window decoration is made from coloured cardboard and tissue paper. Hang it in the light to brighten your home with the true spirit of the season.
What you'll need
Coloured cellophane
Coloured mini tissue
squares
Gold & silver glitter card
Glue
Cardboard in multiple shades of green
Scissors
Pencil How to make
Step 1: Cut out all the shapes from the coloured and glitter card (see template). Use different shades of green for the foliage.
Step 2: Glue strips of clear cellophane to the back of the candle windows, then trim off any excess.
Step 3: Layer and glue
tissue squares on top of the cellophane, at the back of the candles.
Step 4: Assemble your decoration by first sticking the candles onto the plate, then
gluing on the foliage, adding the flames to finish, and finally applying mounting putty/glue to the back so you can display your creation in the window.
(Bakerross.co.uk)
By John Mason Neale
Good King Wenceslas look’d out, On the Feast of Stephen; When the snow lay round about, Deep, and crisp, and even: Brightly shone the moon that night, Though the frost was cruel, When a poor man came in sight, Gath’ring winter fuel.
“Hither page and stand by me, If thou know’st it, telling, Yonder peasant, who is he? Where and what his dwelling?”
“Sire, he lives a good league hence. Underneath the mountain; Right against the forest fence, By Saint Agnes’ fountain.”
“Bring me flesh,and bring me wine, Bring me pine-logs hither: Thouand I will see him dine, When we bear them thither.”
Page and monarch forth they went, Forth they went together; Through the rudewind’s wild lament, And the bitter weather.
“Sire, the night is darker now, And the wind blows stronger; Fails my heart, I know now how, I can go no longer.”
“Mark my footsteps, good my page; Tread thou in them boldly; Thou shalt find the winter’s rage Freeze thy blood less coldly.”
In his master’s steps he trod, Where the snow lay dinted; Heat was in the very sod Which the Saint had printed. Therefore, Christian men, be sure, Wealth or rank possessing, Ye who now will bless the poor, Shall yourselves find blessing.
Include a scene in which a character is cooking, drinking, or eating for the festive season.
Over 16,500 Police reports made in Division 4A, 3501 criminal charges laid – McBean
…says serious crime drops 2.4% in division
Serious crimes in Guyana Police Force (GPF) Regional Division 4A have decreased by 2.4 per cent for 2025, according to Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) and Commander of the division, Simon McBean. The statistics were revealed during the GPF Regional Division 4A Annual Christmas Luncheon and Awards Ceremony 2025.
“I am proud to report that in 2025, we are responding with resilience. Despite the economic boom, crime in Region Four-A has remained steady year-todate. We have recorded a 2.4 per cent decrease in serious crimes compared to 2024,” DCP McBean said. He noted that while the year-toyear reduction is significant, the broader trend over the past five years highlights a remarkable transformation within the division. “However, if we look at the broader picture over the last five years, the transformation is staggering. Since 2020, serious crimes in the division have fallen by more than 76 per cent. We have moved from 836 recorded serious crimes in 2020 to just 200 to date in 2025,” he stated. According to McBean, this success is built on three strategic pillars, foundational policing, technological integration and strong com-
munity partnerships. “Our foundational policing is built on resilience, reassurance, deterrence and strong leadership,” he explained.
He attributed much of the progress to enhanced technological capabilities introduced by the Government of Guyana. “We utilise smart cameras, facial recognition systems, drones, body-worn cameras, and the LCD monitoring system in Georgetown—our eyes in the sky. Finally, our community partnerships remain the backbone of our success and are integral to the relationship between the police and the public,” McBean said.
Public’s perception
Despite the positive statistics, the Divisional Commander acknowledged that public perception and fear of crime remain challenges. “While the numbers are positive, we recognise that one serious crime is still one too many. Public perception often lags behind data, and the fear of crime remains a challenge for us,” he noted.
Looking ahead, McBean said the division’s primary objective is to ensure that improved safety statistics translate into a real sense of security for citizens.
“Moving forward, our primary goal is to ensure that
the safety reflected in the statistics is safety truly felt by every citizen in their daily lives,” he said.
He also highlighted improvements in road safety, noting a three per cent increase in general traffic accidents but a significant 24 per cent decrease in fatal accidents.
“This is a testament to our Traffic Department’s hard work and commitment to saving lives,” he added. Turning to personnel matters, McBean stressed the importance of recognising the officers behind the statistics. He revealed that Division Four-A began 2025 with a strength of 596 ranks and is concluding the year with 582, acknowledging that the year was not without challenges.
“The force lost 14 ranks to dismissal, six to retirement, and one to withdrawal. Additionally, seven ranks were charged and placed before the court during 2025, reminding us of the high standards of integrity we must uphold,” he said.
He further disclosed that the division also faced health-related challenges, accumulating a total of 3,665 days of sick leave. Despite these challenges, McBean said there was much to celebrate in terms of career advancement within the division. “Thanks to
Top Cop warns cops against...
FROM PAGE 2
“I think that initiative was good for us. Coming out of it, you would have heard about promotions in a division, but over 3,000 persons were promoted across the entire Police Force,” he noted. He further explained that constables and sergeants who have not yet obtained passes in Mathematics and English at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) level are being encouraged to enrol.
“We decided, following a meeting with His Excellency, that constables to sergeants without CXC should make contact with Mr Budram. They will be sent to the HSPU to sign up, and this will be done free of
cost,” he said. He took the opportunity to also remind ranks that the Government had extended the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) scholarship programme to members of the Police Force.
He also highlighted that the University of Guyana (UG) is offering free programmes, noting that several officers are currently pursuing law degrees.
“Within the next 10 years, we are going to be flooded with lawyers, which will significantly enhance the performance of the Police Force,” he said. President Dr Irfaan Ali has previously stated that all officers within the GPF must possess at least CSEC
passes in Mathematics and English. The need for a better-educated police force was also emphasised by Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond during her address to the gathering. “Education is a national security investment and a non-negotiable requirement for a modern police service. Every rank must secure passes in Mathematics and English within the next three years, and every rank must be registered on the Guyana Digital School platform. This is a tremendous opportunity, and I urge you to take hold of your future so that you are equipped to better serve the men and women of Guyana,” Walrond said.
the visionary initiative of His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, a staggering 425 ranks within the division were promoted in 2025. This massive investment in your careers is a clear sign that your hard work and commitment to the state do not go unnoticed,” he stated.
McBean reported that operational productivity remained high, with ranks investigating more than 16,500 reports during the year, leading to 3,501 criminal charges. The Traffic Department also brought over 5,660 persons before the courts for traffic violations. He further revealed that the division successfully removed 28 illegal firearms from the streets and seized more than 65 kilograms (kg) of cannabis and 18 grams of cocaine. It was also disclosed that while there was an 18.75 per cent decrease in anti-crime patrols due to resource constraints – an issue expected
to be fully addressed in the first quarter of 2026 – the division still conducted over 28,000 patrols and 435 community outreaches.
McBean credited the achievements of Division Four-A to strong support from the Government and police leadership. “This feat could not have been achieved without the support of the Government of Guyana and
the Police Administration. I wish to thank the Honourable Minister of Home Affairs for her guidance, the Government of Guyana for the resources provided, our commissioner for his leadership and the additional Christmas season patrols, and the Executive Leadership Team for their sterling support throughout the year,” he said.
Deputy Commissioner of Police and Commander of regional Division 4A, Simon McBean
Quindon Bacchus shooting Obstruction charge dismissed against ex-cop
More than three years after the fatal shooting of 23-yearold Quindon Bacchus sparked nationwide outrage and calls for police accountability, a Senior Magistrate has dismissed an obstruction charge brought against a former police rank linked to the investigation. At the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Monday, senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore upheld a no-case submission made by Defence Attorney Bernard DaSilva, resulting in the dismissal of an attempt to obstruct the course of justice charge against Damien Mc Lennon, a former member of the Guyana Police Force (GPF). In delivering her ruling, Magistrate Azore found that the prosecution failed to establish a prima facie case, concluding that the evidence present-
ed did not sufficiently support the allegation that Mc Lennon attempted to interfere with or derail the investigation into Bacchus’s killing. Mc Lennon was among the ranks charged in August 2022, amid mounting public pressure following Bacchus’s death on June 10, 2022, at Haslington, East Coast Demerara (ECD). The young man was shot during what police initially described as an operation, but that version of events was later challenged by eyewitness accounts, video footage and other findings that raised serious questions about the conduct of the ranks involved. The shooting triggered days of protests along the East Coast corridor, with demonstrators demanding justice for Bacchus and accountability within the police force. Roads were blocked, clashes erupted between protesters and law enforcement. Several police ranks were charged with various offences, including murder and obstruction of justice. The obstruction charge against Mc Lennon centred on allegations that he was part of an effort to mislead investigators or conceal key facts surrounding the fatal shooting. However, throughout the proceedings, Mc Lennon’s defence maintained that his involvement in the operation was limited and that the prosecution failed to produce credible evidence showing any deliberate attempt on his part to obstruct justice. That argument ultimately prevailed with Monday’s rul-
ing. Several other legal matters connected to Bacchus’s death remain ongoing, including criminal charges against other ranks.
In January Vice President (VP) Dr Bharrat Jagdeo had announced that the State would be paying the $24 million compensation to the estate of Quindon Bacchus, who was unlawfully killed in 2022 when a team of police ranks gunned him down.
The High Court had ordered the State in November 2024 to pay the estate of Bacchus the sum of $1 million for his funeral expenses, $22.5 million as damages for the breach of his right to life, and $500,000 in costs. The State had indicated that it would appeal the ruling, but Jagdeo, during one of his press conferences told reporters that President Dr Irfaan Ali has intervened
to stop the legal battle. The police had claimed that the 25-year-old Bacchus was going to sell an undercover police rank an unlicensed firearm and after the rank had revealed himself to be a policeman, the father of one, who resided at Golden Grove, ECD, started to flee; and in the process, had discharged several rounds at the police.
The police claimed they returned fire, fatally hitting Bacchus. However, investigations revealed that there was no authorised police operation in that area, and no police commander was aware of any such operation. Examination of the firearm allegedly recovered at the scene had revealed that the firearm the police claimed Bacchus used to shoot at them was inoperable and could not have been fired by the deceased. Further, no civilian witness claimed to have seen Bacchus fire at the police. As a result of the incident and subsequent investigation by the police, several ranks were allegedly placed under close arrest. One such officer, Lance Corporal Kristoff DeNobrega, has been charged with the offence of murder.
In November, Justice Gino Persaud upheld a nocase submission in the matter involving De Nobrega, ruling that there was insufficient evidence to proceed with the murder charge in connection with the fatal shooting of Quindon Bacchus in June 2022. De Nobrega, 24, represented by Attorney George Thomas, had pleaded not guilty to the charge of murdering 23-year-old Bacchus, who was shot dead on June 10, 2022, at Haslington, ECD. After the prosecution closed its case, the defence filed a no-case submission, contending that the evidence presented was insufficient to sustain a conviction. After upholding the no-case submission, the judge instructed the jury to deliver a formal not-guilty verdict, thereby clearing De Nobrega of the accusation.
‘Tis…
…the season
As your Eyewitness mentioned, he was pretty chuffed to’ve visited the “One Guyana Christmas Village” on Main Street in our GT that’s slowly recovering its old (colonial) shine!! When your Eyewitness reached the North Road end, he could see the refurbished spires of City Hall – which been transformed into a set for Bram Stoker’s Dracula!! Dark, grim and foreboding by the PNC-M&CC!! Walking under the street-length lighted arches, he could see they were inspired by that old Christmas standby: Deck the halls with boughs of holly, Fa la la la la, la la la la. Tis the season to be jolly, Fa la la la la, la la la la!!
But as we careen into “the season” with increasing jollity – fuelled by exuberant spirits from internal and external sources – your Eyewitness hopes he won’t be a party pooper when he reminds of that other side of Christmas. A side that exhorts us to remember the SEVEN VIRTUES that the fella whose birthday we commemorate taught us as the values of the life we oughta live by. You don’t know about the homily of the “seven virtues”, Dear Reader??
Well, it’s not that your Eyewitness was such a diligent and attentive listener to the sermons which he’d been conscripted to imbibe on Wednesdays – at the Religious Denominational School he attended!! That, as his sainted Granma used to say, passed in one ear – and right through the other!! Of course, as he had been frequently assured, that could mean he didn’t have anything between the aforementioned two ears!!
No…what kept the Seven Virtues in his mind was a painting the 15th Century Italian painter Caravaggio executed for a Church – where it’s still hung!! – in exculpation for a murder he’d committed!! And there were the seven Virtues – feeding the hungry, offering drink to the thirsty; sheltering the homeless; clothing the naked; visiting the sick and imprisoned, and burying the dead represented in glorious oils that made the painting literally talk to a young, callow Eyewitness who stumbled upon it in one of his textbooks!! If the truth be told, he was particularly drawn to the young mother who was feeding an old man from her lactating breast!! That was showing mercy!!
But back to your Eyewitness’s point!! Shouldn’t we at least practise these virtues with the same abandon and gusto in this Christmas season – that we do with the jollity associated with the Big Guy’s coming?? Incidentally, both he – as a cherubic baby! – and his Mother Mary are pictured in the painting!! Let’s not argue about the exact PERCENTAGE of poverty that persists to date.
We know that surely it’s impossible to totally eliminate that condition – so why not do our bit??
…to rally support
So here we are, having just felicitated – and facilitated –the opening of a Grenada Consulate for Guyana when your Eyewitness read that the Venezuelan-sponsored regional grouping ALBA – of which Grenada’s a part – has criticised the US military presence in the Caribbean – which our Government and President have fervently supported!!
St Vincent’s Ralph Gonsalves, of course, had been a cardcarrying member of the “Mad Maduro Fan Club”!! But with his embarrassing clobbering at the polls that threw him out of the Government on his ears, your Eyewitness had assumed the new government would’ve paid more heed to Trinidad and Guyana’s existential threat from Venezuela!! But no Siree, Bob!! There they were – right at the side of Grenada and the other OECS micro-states in ALBA – giving succour and support to the dictator!! Your Eyewitness hopes they don’t expect us to bail them out when they get the squeeze from the US for siding with Nicaragua, Cuba and Venezuela!! What will they do when Mad Maduro’s ousted?? Suck salt!!
…a tragedy
This thing called drug abuse has no boundaries –geographical, social, economic…whatever. But he was still shocked that “Meathead” – from one of your Eyewitness’s favourite shows back in the day “All in the Family” – was murdered by his druggie son.
necessarily reflect Guyana Times’ editorial policy and stance
Obstruction charge dismissed against former cop, Damien Mc Lennon
Defence Attorney Bernard DaSilva
National Education Leadership Academy launched to boost teachers’ leadership skills
The Education Ministry has officially launched the National Education Leadership Academy (NELA), a new national initiative aimed at strengthening leadership capacity among teachers and education administrators across Guyana.
The Academy will function as a permanent national training structure embedded within Guyana’s education system, providing ongoing leadership training and professional development for both practicing and aspiring education leaders at the nursery, primary, and secondary levels. NELA will initially train two cohorts of 100 participants each, with the first cohort already selected. The inaugural group includes heads of departments, senior masters and senior mistresses, education officers, aspiring education officers, regional education officers and central ministry staff. Importantly, 20 per cent of the first cohort comes from hinterland regions, specifically Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine, ensuring geographic balance and inclusion in leadership development. The leadership programme will be delivered primarily online, supported by three face-to-face workshops per cohort, and will emphasise a hands-on approach, combining individual and group learning.
Speaking at the launch, Minister of Education
Sonia Parag said the initiative represents a major pillar of the Government’s education reform agenda and signals a strong commitment to quality education through effective leadership.
Turning to the first cohort of participants, the Minister described their selection as both an honour and a responsibility.
“To the members of Cohort 1, I say this to you, your selection is both an honour and a profound responsibility. You have been chosen because you have demonstrated commitment, potential, and the capacity to lead change. You are now called to lead with integrity, to champion inclusion, to use data wisely and to place learners at the centre of every decision. The true success of this institute or this academy will be seen in stronger schools, empowered teachers and students who believe more deeply in their own possibilities. And let me assure you that the Ministry of Education will stand firmly with you and behind this academy.
Leadership development is not a one-time initiative. It is a cornerstone of our reform agenda. As we modernise our curriculum, expand digital learning, strengthen monitoring and accountability and improve system efficiency, this academy will remain a key driver of sustainable development,” the Minister said. The Academy is supported by the Global Partnership
for Education, the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB), and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation’s (UNESCO) International Institute for Educational Planning (IIEP-UNESCO).
Parag linked the academy’s leadership focus to improving classroom quality and student well-being, noting that while Guyana has made significant investments in school infrastructure, attention must now shift to delivery and safety. “And so, to you who are taking the training, don’t take the training just because there is a certification or there will be an enhancement in your current job description. But do it because at the end of the day, our children are the most important thing in this country, the most important people in this country. In the next 10 years, they will be the next generation of leaders. And it will be you who will be imparting your leadership skills on them, the impact that you want to
create for every child who previously did not have access to school, to an education, or to a safer environment for education,” she said, adding that “while we have built schools, in the
next five years, we have to focus on the quality of the delivery in the classroom. We have to focus on putting our efforts and contributing our part in creating a safer environment.”
Education Minister Sonia Parag
More than 45 drivers to face court for illegal 3rd lane driving – Traffic Chief
Days after the Safe Road Intelligent System (SRIS) was upgraded, more than 45 drivers are expected to be hauled before the courts for illegally creating and using an unauthorised “third lane,” as enforcement against the dangerous practice intensifies.
The disclosure was made by Traffic Chief Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Singh during a telephone interview with this news publication, following questions about recent statements by Home Affairs Minister, Oneidge Walrond, regarding a crackdown on motorists who create their own lanes.
“I can assure you there is no such thing as a third lane. There are only two driving lanes on the specified carriageway,” he stated, stressing that drivers who operate outside the designated lanes are in breach of the law. Illegal third-lane driving is now being automatically detected and flagged by speed cameras under a new enforcement enhancement rolled out through the SRIS. The initiative is a collaborative effort between the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) and is aimed at curbing a long-standing and dangerous traffic practice.
The upgraded SRIS platform uses advanced video-analytics technology to identify vehicles attempting to use turning lanes or inner lanes as shortcuts to bypass traffic. Each violation is documented using high-definition video, capturing the vehicle’s speed, lane position and licence plate number. This evidence is then used by the GPF to support dangerous-driving charges. For years, motorists have complained about drivers forming an unauthorised “third lane,” particularly during peak hours. Behaviour that often leads to collisions, sud-
den swerving, and traffic congestion. Authorities say the new detection feature directly addresses these concerns by providing verifiable and consistent evidence for enforcement. SRIS currently monitors traffic across more than 100 lanes nationwide, with further expansion already planned. By automating detection, the GPF is now able to enforce lane discipline without deploying officers at every intersection. “In terms of figures, I can tell you that more than 45 drivers will be before the court after all the procedural steps are completed. Those 45 drivers are expected to appear before the court between now and Tuesday,” the Traffic Chief said. In fact, he further revealed
that minibus operators are among those caught in the crackdown. “What I observed today alone [Monday] is that more than 10 minibus
action,” he explained. Singh outlined that a structured process is followed once violations are detected. “As the drivers for those specif-
age the road-using public to do is not drive in a manner that poses danger to other road users. When you endanger others, you are also endangering yourself,” he stressed. According to him, the Minister’s comments were intended to reassure the public that law enforcement agencies are actively addressing the issue and that advancements in technology are allowing the GPF to improve enforcement efficiency. Penalties for creating an illegal third lane fall under dangerous-driving offences and may attract fines ranging up to $200,000, depending on the severity of the offence. Less than a
drivers who were identified in the first stage of the process were already processed at Traffic Headquarters. I was there and saw the measures being implemented after the vehicles were identified, intercepted and forwarded for appropriate
ic vehicles appear before the court, a full publication will follow thereafter for the general information of the public,” he added. He also used the opportunity to urge motorists to exercise greater caution on the nation’s roadways. “What we encour-
week ago, Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken announced the most extensive technological upgrade in the history of the Guyana Police Force, including the installation of 30 new speed cameras and significant digital enhancements to road-monitoring systems.
Traffic Chief, Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Singh
Pres Ali engages Guyanese Diaspora in New York
President Dr Irfaan Ali spent time over the weekend engaging with members of the Guyanese diaspora across several locations in New York.
On Saturday, the President interacted with Guyanese nationals at a get-together hosted by the International Centre for Democracy (ICD) at the Villa Russo Banquet Hall in Queens. He also visited the Regent Street Lounge, where he met and spoke with patrons. Later on Saturday evening, Ali stopped by the Ex-Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Association of New York to pay tribute to veteran basketball coach Bernard Daniels. The President described Daniels as “a true pioneer who led with his heart, strength and wis-
dom,” and commended his lifelong contribution to the development of basketball and his mentorship of generations of young athletes.
On Sunday, Ali continued his outreach with members of the diaspora during a visit to the Rockaway Roti Shop in South Ozone Park, where he engaged with Guyanese residents in an informal setting. The head of state over the years have called on Guyanese living abroad to return and invest in the many opportunities that are becoming available in Guyana, telling members of the Guyanese Diaspora that they need to witness the rapid transformation that is unfolding back home. In September, while addressing a reception hosted by the Guyanese Diaspora in New York, where he
led a delegation to attend the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Ali had told members of the Guyanese Diaspora that persons are no longer flee-
ing the country but returning as a result of the development currently unfolding at a rapid pace. “For those who left a long time ago, the Guyana of today is not
the Guyana of yesterday.
We are no longer the land that people run from. We are now the land that people are running toward. Every single person in the
room knows who we are. We are the fastest-growing economy in the world. We are a land of opportunities,” President Ali had declared. He had outlined his Government’s plans for Guyana’s continued development and assured Guyanese living abroad that they too are welcome to participate in the country’s transformation. According to the Guyanese leader, there will be investment opportunities that are tailored specifically for the Guyanese citizens, including members of the diaspora, which he implored them to take advantage of. He had said that Guyana’s Government will be taking concrete steps to strengthen the way it engages with citizens abroad, including fully revamping the Diaspora Unit at the Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ministry. During his inauguration speech in September also after being sworn in to serve a second term in office, President Ali had promised to ensure that the vast potential within the Guyanese diaspora was tapped into and became partners in the transformation of the country.
President Dr Irfaan Ali interacting with Guyanese at the International Centre for Democracy at the Villa Russo Banquet Hall in Queens, New York
Meeting with Diaspora at the Rockaway Roti Shop in South Ozone Park
President Ali at the Ex-Guyana Defence Force Association of New York on Saturday evening where they paid tribute to basketball coach Bernard Daniels
Police host Christmas outreach activities
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) rolled out a series of Christmas outreach and youth engagement activities across several regions between December 11 and 14, 2025, as part of its ongoing community policing programme.
In Regional Police Division Two
(Pomeroon–Supenaam), the division hosted its annual Christmas Tree Light-up and Children’s Party on Saturday, December 13, at the divisional headquarters compound. More than 200 children from police youth groups and families of ranks stationed in the division attended.
Activities included games, bouncy castles and the distribution of gifts, with Santa Claus also making an appearance.
Meanwhile, in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), the Commander of Regional Division Eight, Senior Superintendent R. Stanley and
his administrative team hosted a Christmas party for youth group members at the Mahdia Police Station compound on Sunday. The event formed part of the division’s youth outreach programme aimed at strengthening relationships between the police and young people in the Mahdia community. During brief remarks, the commander extended Christmas greetings and encouraged discipline, respect and positive life choices. Participants took part in games and interactive sessions and received gifts and Christmas treats.
activities across multiple regions
In Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo), the Annai Police Station, in collaboration with the North Rupununi Community Police Group, conducted a Christmas gift distribution on Thursday, December 11. The activity was led by Sergeant Osborne, subordinate officer in charge of the station, with support from Detective Sergeant Hazelwood and other ranks. Children from the communities of Annai, Rupertee, Wowetta and Fair View benefited from the initiative, which the police said was aimed at strengthening police-community relations dur-
ing the festive season. The GPF Academy also hosted a “Trainees in Concert and Christmas Tree Light-up” on Sunday, December 14, at its Georgetown campus at Eve Leary. Trainees from the Berbice, Georgetown and Essequibo campuses presented musical performances,
poetry and an Amerindian dance. The event concluded with the lighting of the Christmas tree. Senior officers in attendance included Deputy Commissioner (Administration) Ravindradat Budhram and Deputy Commissioner Simon McBean, Director of the Police Academy.
Additionally, ranks from Regional Division Nine hosted a Christmas activity for children in Lethem and Tabatinga on Saturday, December 13. The event featured performances, games and the distribution of toys to children, with parents also in attendance.
Contractor axed for poor performance
The Public Works Ministry has assumed direct responsibility for the $631 million Princes Street, Georgetown road expansion project following the termination of the contractor due to poor performance.
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill announced that the project, which was approximately 30 per cent complete, will now be executed by the Ministry’s Special Projects Unit, assuring residents and road users that immediate remedial works will begin to improve traffic flow and accessibility along the corridor.
“So, we are here at Princes Street. Our intention is to expand the width of Princes Street, putting in better drainage arrangement, so that when the traffic comes off of Cemetery Road, with four lanes, we will have an upgraded Princes Street to help to move the traffic westward. Two contracts were awarded on this sec-
tion, which is from Cemetery Road heading back west.
The contractor has failed to
execute his contractual obligations. And not only has he failed to execute his contractual obligations, but he has actually kept the turf here in a mess, an inconvenience to residents and other users. We’ve had to terminate this contract, and the Ministry’s Special Projects Unit, under the leadership of Senior Engineer Colin Gittins, has taken over this project,” the Minister disclosed during a site visit on Monday. The Princes Street Road expansion project, officially titled Lot 23: Rehabilitation/Construction of Princes Street – Cemetery Road to St Stephen Street, was awarded to Yhardram & Sons Construction Establishment under a contract valued at $631 million. Works commenced on November 25, 2024, with a scheduled completion date of September 24, 2025, spanning a duration of 10 months. However, due to what the Ministry described as poor performance and failure to meet contractual obligations, the contractor has been terminated.
The contractor had already received an advance payment of $189.3 million prior to the termination. The Princes Street is part of the infrastructure upgrade in Georgetown, aimed at easing congestion and improving road safety and drainage in central areas of the city. The project scope includes construction of an asphalt concrete road, concrete drains, concrete walkways and retaining walls.
The roadway spans 1,070 metres with a width of 10.37 metres and is designed to integrate seamlessly with the Cemetery
Road expansion, improving connectivity from Cemetery Road to High Street. With increased traffic expected during the Christmas period, the Ministry on Monday said that it has prioritised stabilising and improving the road surface to ensure smoother travel for motorists and safer access for nearby residents. Edghill said the takeover by the Special Projects Unit reflects the Government’s commitment to accountability and timely project delivery.
“The first thing we’re seeking to do right now is to clean up the entire project area and ensure that the road is usable and traffic could get along. And then, they will have to get into full gear of completing the construction, as intended by the design and the bill. So, relief, immediate relief is here to the residents of Princes Street and to all the users of Princes Street, and intervention by the Ministry’s Special Projects Unit. And that work has started, and I’m here to check to see that we’re getting it done in a manner in which we want to get it done,” the Minister said. The Public Works Ministry reiterated that while contractors are given opportunities to meet performance standards, projects critical to public convenience and safety will not be allowed to stall, particularly in high-traffic urban areas. The Princes Street upgrade is expected to significantly improve traffic flow, drainage and pedestrian safety once completed, contributing to the ongoing transformation of Georgetown’s road network.
The state of sections of Princes Street, Georgetown
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill during a site visit at Princes Street road expansion project on Monday
Misinformation “storm” about BJ
Demerara River Bridge dismissed …structure “remains
safe, stable” – Edghill
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill has reassured the public that the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge remains structurally sound, while also addressing concerns raised about works ongoing at the New Hope Bridge, dismissing recent criticisms as misinformation that risk creating unnecessary public alarm. In a detailed statement issued by the Public Works Ministry on Monday, Edghill confirmed that continuous monitoring of settlement observation points on the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge has shown no abnormal settlement in the bridge’s foundations. According to the Ministry, “all moni-
New
toring data indicate that the bridge structure remains safe, stable, and fully reliable for public use.” Misinformation have been circulating following observations of pavement undulations on sections of the bridge. However, the Ministry explained that technical investigations revealed these irregularities are confined to localised surface flatness variations linked to the asphalt paving process and do not affect the bridge’s structural integrity or load-bearing capacity. The Ministry further clarified that pavement undulation near the east approach abutment is a result of the transition zone where sand embankment fill meets the concrete abutment struc-
ture. Differences in material properties, Edghill noted, can lead to varying settlement behaviour, producing temporary elevation differences at the surface. The contractor has since been instructed to conduct remedial works to restore a smooth driving surface.
“The Ministry of Public Works appreciates the vigilance and concern shown by members of the public regarding this critical infrastructure,” the statement said, while reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to professional monitoring, maintenance, and public safety.
Storm in a teacup
Meanwhile, addressing growing public commentary
New Amsterdam’s Town Day 2025 has been hailed as a success, recording a surplus of more than $1.8 million and introducing several firsttime activities that broadened the scope of the annual celebrations beyond the traditional street festivities. Town Day 2025 was part of a larger week of activities in November marking the town’s 134th anniversary. The highlight of the celebrations was a street fair held on 22 November 2025. The launch of Town Day activities took place on 24 October 2025, under the theme “Green and Tourism-
Other events during the period included an
Auto Expo, Car & Bike Show and Vehicle Sound Clash. Reviewing the event
surrounding the New Hope Bridge, Edghill visited the site, stressing that the bridge is not yet fully completed, though it has been opened for temporary use.
“So, I am at the Hope Bridge because there has been a storm in a teacup about poor quality of work and bringing into question whether we know what we are doing,” Edghill said. He explained that visible gaps near the abutment are not cracks or structural failures but spaces deliberately left for the installation of expansion joints.
“The expansion joint has to be placed and all that has happened is that to allow for a smooth ride while the contractors were importing the expansion joint, they put temporary asphalt,” the Minister explained. “If we had left the bridge with the abutment exposed, nobody would have been able to drive over the bridge.”
According to Edghill, the temporary asphalt will be cut to facilitate the installation of the metal expansion joints Bridge. He confirmed that the expansion joints are already in the contractor’s compound and will be installed shortly. The Minister said he chose to visit the site himself to independently verify technical reports provided by engineers. “I didn’t want this to be pure politics,” he said. “I wanted to ensure
that technically what is being reported to me by my engineers are correct and I am here on site and I am satisfied.” Edghill also took aim at what he described as reckless commentary circulating in the public domain, warning that misinformation can be difficult to undo once spread. He cautioned that statements made without proper verification can create “public alarm, public distrust and public confusion,” adding that individuals who position themselves as leaders must be mindful of their credibility.
“We cannot live in a society where because you don’t understand something, it’s corruption,” Edghill asserted. “I am not responsible for your lack of understanding. When you have lack of understanding, you try to get someone who can explain to you, but you cannot take everything you don’t understand and call it corruption.” Reiterating his position, the Minister stressed, “This bridge is not failing. It is not,” while suggesting that the Ministry of Public Works has been unfairly targeted in recent days.
at a press conference on Monday, Mayor Wainwright McIntosh praised the Town Day 2025 Committee, led by Deputy Mayor Kirk Fraser, for what he described as exceptional teamwork, accountability and transparency in executing the calendar of activities. “In spite of many challenges, the team went above and beyond. What I am most happy about is that the committee understood the assignment and the importance of accountability and transparency,” Mayor McIntosh said, while announcing that Town Day 2025 ended with a surplus in excess of $1.8 million. The
achievements of Town Day 2025 stand in sharp contrast to the 2024 celebrations, which generated limited revenue and left little room for community projects.
Speaking at the launch of Town Day 2025 two months ago, Deputy Mayor Fraser acknowledged that the previous year’s activities yielded $186,000, funds which he said were insufficient to undertake any meaningful projects on their own. He explained that lessons learnt from 2024 directly shaped the planning and execution of this year’s celebrations.
“We learned from what would have taken place in
the past. That is why this year we took on a more modest, cost-effective operation, so that the money we expend can be better used to benefit the general citizenry of New Amsterdam,” Fraser said. Those lessons resulted in earlier planning, a restructured committee, fewer costly ceremonial elements and stronger engagement with corporate New Amsterdam factors that ultimately translated into a longer, more diverse list of activities and stronger financial returns.
Driven.”
Amsterdam Town Day 2025 nets $1.8M profit
NA Mayor Wainwright McIntosh
File photos: New Amsterdam Town Day 2025
Expansion joints to be installed at the abutment of the New Hope Bridge
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill during a site visit at Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge
Guyana’s Leslie Ramsammy new Chair of WTO Negotiating Group
Guyana’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations (UN) Office and other international organisations in Geneva, Ambassador Dr Leslie Ramsammy has been appointed as chair to the World Trade Organisation (WTO). On its website, it was stated that WTO Negotiating Group on Rules aims to clarify and improve the existing disciplines on Anti-Dumping, Subsidies and Countervailing Measures, including #FisheriesSubsidies and Regional Trade Agreements. The WTO’s Negotiating Group on Rules (NGR) was established in February 2002 pursuant to the negotiating mandate on “WTO Rules” agreed at the WTO’s 4th Ministerial Conference in Doha. That original negotiating mandate was to clarify and improve the existing disciplines (the re -
spective WTO Agreements) on anti-dumping and countervailing measures, and on subsidies including fisheries subsidies, as well as in respect of regional trade agreements. According to the WTO website, during the initial years of the negotiations, the NGR received proposals concerning, and actively worked on all areas of the mandate, including fisheries subsidies.
Following the WTO’s 10th Ministerial Conference in
UG gender institute's 10th anniversary
Nairobi in 2015, fisheries subsidies has been the only active area of work in the NGR. The work of the NGR is supervised by the Trade Negotiations Committee (TNC), which operates under the authority of the WTO’s General Council. The TNC establishes negotiating procedures and monitors the progress of negotiations and the chair of the NGR provides periodic reports to the TNC.
Stakeholders call for stronger partnerships to advance gender research, dialogue
The University of Guyana’s (UG) Institute for Gender Studies (IGS) celebrated its 10th anniversary on December 1, with various stakeholders calling for in-
creased collaboration and partnership to advance gender studies programmes, gender dialogue and research in Guyana. The anniversary event, according to a release from the uni-
versity, included an art exhibition, dinner and keynote address held in the Education Lecture Theatre, UG’s Turkeyen Campus. It brought together a distinguished gathering of policymakers, activists, ambassadors, faculty and other instrumental partners who have championed the work of the Institute over the decade. In her remarks, Director of the IGS, Dr Lisa Edwards, reflect-
New Amsterdam Town...
Meanwhile at Monday’s press conference, Mayor McIntosh highlighted several signature events that debuted in 2025, including a food festival, which he confirmed will now become an annual feature. For the first time, schools were formally integrated into the celebrations, making the event “historical in origin,” he noted. Educational activities, including a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEM) competition, were among what the Mayor described as “first-of-its-kind” initiatives for the town. These were supported by the Ministry of Education, along with participation from institutions such as the New Amsterdam Technical Institute, the Department of Public Health, and private-sector partners. On the sporting front, foot-
ball and basketball competitions drew strong participation and enthusiasm, with the basketball finals described as electrifying. The Mayor said these activities showcased local talent as well as reinforced the inclusive nature of the celebrations.
Deputy Mayor Fraser had earlier noted that profits from Town Day activities are intended to flow directly back to residents. He pointed to previous examples, such as funds from a football match being used to rehabilitate a kiddies’ corner, and outlined plans to channel proceeds from 2025 into upgrades at the Esplanade football field, including lighting. The longer-term vision, he said, is to move activities away from public roadways into designated spaces that are safer, easier to manage, and less disruptive to livelihoods. While
celebrating the successes of 2025, Mayor McIntosh acknowledged challenges, including the shifting of event dates due to security considerations and clashes with other major regional activities, which affected some visitors, particularly from the diaspora.
To avoid a repeat, he announced that planning for Town Day 2026 has already begun, with the calendar of activities to be released early to allow visitors and stakeholders to plan. He also issued a renewed call for greater public-private partnership, urging corporate entities operating in New Amsterdam to play a more active role in future celebrations. “We want to better showcase New Amsterdam as a tourism destination and return it to being the place to be for family-oriented, fun-filled activities,” the Mayor said.
ed on the institution’s journey and expressed deep gratitude for the continuous support from local and international partners. A key feature of the evening was the address by Professor Emerita Kamala Kempadoo, a pioneer in the start of the IGS. Professor Kempadoo commended the institute for its dedication on educating the public on gender issues, conducting essential research and keeping vital conversations going. In her keynote address, Professor Kempadoo delivered a thought-provoking presentation titled “Sex, Gender and Violence: The (Feminist) Struggle Continues,” in which she explored the complex ways sexuality shapes social and material realities. Her discussion examined how intimate relationships, whether formed for emotional connection, financial support or improved living conditions, can influence a person’s life trajectory. She also highlighted how sexual expression becomes visible through behaviours, interactions and the fulfilment of human desires. Additionally, she addressed the use of sexual and emotional energy in sustaining social life, meeting personal and collective needs and navigating systems of power, opportunity and development. The anniversary dinner featured other
compelling remarks from key representatives, underscoring the collaborative spirit that sustains the IGS. Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana and Suriname, Sebastien Sigouin, the release said, lauded the Institute’s impactful approach: “What I like about the gender institute is that it is facilitating public conversations to talk about gender violence not only against women but to have the conversions with men and boys and girls. We will continue to support the role of the institute and this initiative.” Meanwhile, Chairperson of the Women and Gender Equality Commission, Indranie Chandarpal, took attendees down memory lane, chronicling the Institute’s inception and the sustained effort required for its work. She noted the collaboration in supporting the research process and the provision of scholarships for women to study. She also appreciated the successful events produced through the partnership, extended appreciation to all current and past IGS staff and challenged the Institute to continue to focus on the tasks initially outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
According to the release, Vice-Chancellor of UG, Professor Paloma Mohamed-Martin, thanked the Canadian High
Commissioner and other stakeholders for their efforts in ensuring the work of the IGS is supported and sustained. She emphasised that the IGS is crucial in “allowing those who have a voice to speak up.” Professor Mohamed Martin further acknowledged Professor Kempadoo as the “mother of the institute from its inception,” assuring attendees that the IGS is “in good hands”.
The IGS was officially inaugurated on the 28th August, 2015 by UG in partnership with the University of the West Indies’ (UWI) Institute of Gender and Development Studies and York University in Canada. The Institute was established to serve as a hub for multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary teaching, research, dialogue and action on local and transnational issues on women and gender. Key speakers at the launch of the IGS highlighted the crucial role of the IGS in contributing to the formulation and implementation of a national gender and development policy, advancing gender justice and tackling social problems faced by citizens. The IGS was seen as a functional commitment by the university to meet its obligation to address social problems and contribute significantly to Guyana’s national policy agenda.
Chair of WTO Negotiating Group, Guyana’s Ambassador Dr Leslie Ramsammy
Director of the Institute for Gender Studies, Dr Lisa Edwards, presents a token of appreciation to Professor Emerita Kamala Kempadoo of York University during the IGS’ 10th anniversary celebration at the University of Guyana’s Education Lecture Theatre (UG photo)
Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana and Suriname, Sebastien Sigouin
Chairperson of the Women and Gender Equality Commission, Indranie Chandarpal
Russian tankers heading for Venezuela made U-turns after US oil tanker seizure
Last week, the US Coast Guard seized a very large crude carrier (VLCC) carrying some 1.85 million barrels of heavy oil sold by Venezuela’s Staterun oil company PDVSA.
The seizure was the first interception of a tanker or cargo coming from Venezuela, which has been under US sanctions since 2019, and a sign of growing pressure on President Nicolás Maduro.
Tensions are high between the US and Venezuelan Governments, amid a large-scale US military build-up in the southern Caribbean, US strikes on alleged drug-trafficking boats and comments from US President Donald Trump that land operations may begin soon in Venezuela.
The Venezuelan Government has said the US is seeking regime change to take over the country’s vast oil reserves.
The seizure has already led to a sharp fall in Venezuelan oil exports, also hitting crisis-stricken Cuba, which is facing daily power cuts.
More than 11 million barrels of oil are stuck on board other vessels in Venezuelan
waters since last week.
Among the few tankers setting sail are the ones chartered by oil firm Chevron, one of PDVSA’s key partners, which continue departing to the US under an authorisation previously granted by Washington, according to shipping data.
At least one crude tanker per day bound for Asia has been able to set sail since last week from Venezuelan waters in “dark mode,” which means it navigates with all its localisation systems off, the PDVSA source said.
But a tanker carrying Russian naphtha for PDVSA and at least four supertankers due to pick up crude cargoes in Venezuela have made U-turns, ship monitoring data showed on Monday.
Benin-flagged tanker Boltaris, which was carrying some 300,000 barrels of Russian naphtha bound for Venezuela, made a U-turn late last week and is now heading for Europe without having discharged, according to LSEG vessel monitoring data.
At least four VLCCs that were in PDVSA’s schedules to load crude at Venezuelan ports in the coming weeks
have also made U-turns in recent days, monitoring service TankerTrackers.com said.
Venezuela’s crude output averaged 1.17 million barrels per day (bpd) last month according to official figures, while oil exports rose to some 952,000 bpd, according to shipping data.
Ransomware
PDVSA said it was subjected to a cyberattack, on Monday, adding its operations were unaffected, even though four sources said systems remained down and
Trump brands fentanyl a “weapon of mass destruction” in drug war escalation
President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Monday declaring fentanyl a weapon of mass destruction, a move that dramatically expands the US Government’s authority to fight the synthetic opioid blamed for tens of thousands of American overdose deaths each year.
The designation, unprecedented for a narcotic, signals Trump’s intent to treat fentanyl not merely as a public health crisis but as a national security threat on a par with chemical warfare.
The classification, ratcheting up an assault on what he says are gangs hellbent on flooding the US with drugs, empowers the Pentagon to assist law enforcement and allows intelligence agencies to deploy against drug traffickers the tools normally reserved for countering weapons proliferation.
“We’re formally classifying fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction, which is what it is,” Trump said at a White House event honouring servicemembers tasked with helping to police the US border with Mexico. “They’re trying to drug out our country.”
“Illicit fentanyl is closer to a chemical weapon than a narcotic,” Trump’s order said.
Trump’s designation of
drug cartels this year as foreign terrorist organisations has opened the door to military action against them.
Since early September, the Trump Administration has carried out more than 20 strikes against suspected drug vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific, killing more than 80 persons.
Legal experts say the strikes may be illegal. There has been little or no proof made public that the boats are carrying drugs or that it was necessary to blow them out of the water rather than stop them, seize their cargo and question those on board.
A Reuters/Ipsos poll published on Wednesday found that a broad swathe of Americans oppose the US
military’s campaign of deadly strikes on the boats, including about one-fifth of Trump’s Republicans.
Trump has repeatedly threatened strikes on land in Venezuela, Colombia and Mexico to battle drug trafficking. In a sweeping strategy document published last week, Trump said his Administration’s foreign policy focus would be on reasserting US dominance in the Western Hemisphere.
Mexico is the largest source of US-bound illicit fentanyl. Many of the chemicals used to manufacture the drug are sourced from China. The opioid is a leading cause of US overdose deaths. (Excerpt from Reuters)
oil cargo deliveries were suspended.
PDVSA and the Oil Ministry blamed the US for the cyberattack on Monday, saying it was carried out by “foreign interests in complicity with domestic entities who are seeking to destroy the country’s right to sovereign energy development”.
They alleged the attack was part of U.S. efforts to control Venezuela’s oil through “force and piracy”.
However, a PDVSA source said the company had detected a ransomware attack days ago, and the antivirus software it used to try to fix the problem and affected its entire administrative system.
In a ransomware attack, malicious software encrypts a victim’s files or locks its computer, with attackers sometimes also stealing data and threatening to leak it. These cyberattacks happen via phishing, malicious downloads or infected websites and can cause severe disruptions.
The US State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
PDVSA provided no further details, although the company said it had recovered from the attack. Venezuela’s Government
regularly blames problems like blackouts on conspirators from the Opposition and foreign entities like the US Central Intelligence Agency, without giving evidence.
“There’s no delivery (of cargoes), all systems are down,” one company source said.
A shipper involved in Venezuelan oil deals confirmed that all loading instructions for the export market remained suspended. Oil output, refining and domestic distribution were not affected, the sources said, but the company on Monday failed to restart administrative systems, forcing workers to keep written records of operations.
Two other sources said PDVSA ordered administrative and operational workers to disconnect from the company’s systems and to limit access of indirect workers to the company’s facilities. (Excerpts from Reuters)
Hundreds of Burundi soldiers reported captured in latest Congo offensive
The Rwanda-backed M23 group has captured hundreds of Burundian soldiers during its latest offensive in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, a rebel official said, as clashes continued despite a warning from the Trump Administration.
Last week M23 entered the strategic town of Uvira near the border with Burundi, less than a week after the Presidents of Congo and Rwanda met in Washington with US President Donald Trump and affirmed their commitment to a peace deal known as the Washington Accords.
US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio said on Saturday that Rwanda’s actions in eastern Congo violat-
ed the Washington Accords and vowed to “take action to ensure promises made to the President are kept”.
Rwanda denies supporting M23 and has blamed Congolese and Burundian forces for the renewed fighting. A United Nations group of experts report published in July said Rwanda exercised command and control over the rebels.
“We have several hundred Burundian soldiers with us whom we captured during combat, and we intend to return them home,”
Patrick Busu Bwa Ngwi, the M23-appointed governor of South Kivu province, told a press conference on Saturday.
Busu Bwa Ngwi said Burundi should send an of-
ficial request for their return, and that M23 wants all Burundian forces “to leave our territory and return home in peace”.
There was no immediate response on Monday from Burundi, which has had troops in eastern Congo for years.
M23 staged a lightning offensive in January, quickly seizing eastern Congo’s two biggest cities in fighting that has killed thousands of people while displacing hundreds of thousands more. The insurgents have since worked to establish a parallel administration in the east, potentially setting the vast Central African country up for an enduring fracture. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Trump sues BBC for defamation over editing of January 6 speech
President Donald Trump sued the BBC on Monday for defamation over edited clips of a speech that made it appear he directed supporters to storm the US Capitol, opening an international front in his fight against media coverage he deems untrue or unfair.
Trump accused Britain’s publicly-owned broadcaster of defaming him by splicing together parts of a January 6, 2021 speech, including one section where he told supporters to march on the Capitol and another where
he said “fight like hell”. It omitted a section in which he called for peaceful protest.
The BBC has apologised to Trump, admitted an error of judgment and acknowledged that the edit gave the mistaken impression that he had made a direct call for violent action. But it has said there is no legal basis to sue.
The BBC is funded through a mandatory licence fee on all TV viewers, which UK lawyers say could make any payout to Trump politically fraught.
Facing one of the biggest
crises in its 103-year history, the BBC has said it has no plans to rebroadcast the documentary on any of its platforms.
The dispute over the clip, featured on the BBC’s “Panorama” documentary show shortly before the 2024 presidential election, sparked a public relations crisis for the broadcaster, leading to the resignations of its two most senior officials.
Trump’s lawyers say the BBC caused him overwhelming reputational and financial harm. (Excerpt from Reuters)
A bus passes in front of a gas station with the logo of Venezuelan State oil company PDVSA, in Caracas, Venezuela, May 14, 2025 (Reuters/Leonardo Fernandez Viloria photo)
US President Donald Trump speaks during a Mexican Border Defence Medal presentation in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, DC, US, December 15, 2025 (Reuters/Evelyn Hockstein photo)
Regional Dominica willing to serve as mediator in US-Venezuela conflict, says Skerrit
Dominican Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit said Monday that his country is prepared to act as a mediator in the current conflict between the United States and Venezuela, reiterating that the Caribbean region should always be a zone of peace.
Speaking at his endof-year news conference, PM Skerrit told reporters that Dominica and the wider Caribbean Community (Caricom) region is urging “dialogue and diplomacy” to deal with the situation, given that “there would be an impact on every country” should there be a war in the Caribbean.
“Dominica is a good friend of both the United States and Venezuela, and in the past we have worked together as an intermediary,” he stated, “and we are prepared to do so in this current situation if there are messages from either side to each other.”
“Dominica believes it is well placed to provide that service. But we hope and pray that nothing happens and the US President himself has been involved in a number of negotiations across the world and has used the US’s influence to
bring a number of conflicts to an end,” Skerrit said, adding “I would urge the United States to draw upon that trajectory to advance that noble cause and actions that he has been able to achieve over the years.”
Since September, the Donald Trump Administration has carried out a series of military strikes off the coast of Venezuela, across the Caribbean and the Eastern Pacific as part of what it terms the war on illegal drugs.
Caricom has also issued a statement reiterating the
need for the Region to be a zone of peace, but the statement was not endorsed by the Trinidad and Tobago Government, whose Prime Minister has said that those involved in the illegal drugs trade should be “killed violently”.
Regarding the presence of the US military in Caribbean waters, Prime Minister Skerrit told reporters Dominica and the wider Caribbean have enjoyed “excellent collaboration” with Washington in fighting illicit activities in the region.
(Excerpt from CMC)
Venezuela claims T&T complicit in piracy, cancels gas deals
The Venezuelan Government has immediately terminated all energy ties with Trinidad and Tobago, after accusing its Government of knowing about the US military's interception of an oil tanker reportedly headed to Cuba from Venezuela on December 10.
Venezuela announced the cancellation in a statement on December 15, which was shared on the Facebook page of Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez.
In its statement, the Venezuelan Government said, "Today, in light of this extremely serious act that seeks to brazenly steal Venezuela’s oil, the Venezuelan Government has decided to immediately terminate any contract, agreement, or negotiation for the
supply of natural gas to that country."
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Energy Minister Dr Roodal Moonilal have dismissed the statement, reiterating that T&T has nothing to fear with respect to its energy security.
However, former Prime Minister and ex-Energy Minister Stuart Young expressed concern about what this decision meant for the energy sector and for T&T.
In a WhatsApp response, Persad-Bissessar dismissed the statement as false propaganda.
"They should direct their complaints to President Trump as it is the US military that has seized the sanctioned oil tanker. In the meantime we continue to have peaceful relations with
the Venezuelan people."
She repeated, "We have never depended on Venezuela for natural gas supplies. We have adequate reserves within our territory. We are aggressively working to reduce bureaucratic barriers to speed up approvals for energy companies."
Persad-Bissessar claimed, "The real issue is bureaucracy is hindering our exploration and production."
Energy Minister Moonilal described the Venezuelan Government's statement as "an act of hypocrisy as well since the Government of Venezuela continues to engage with the USA".
Moonilal said, "Today, it is Chevron who is exporting heavy crude oil in the US Gulf Coast."
(Excerpt from Trinidad Newsday)
Jamaica: 3 killed in alleged confrontation with Police in St James
Three men were reportedly fatally injured in an alleged confrontation with members of the security forces Monday afternoon in the community of
Rose Heights, St James. Reports are that the Police were in the community when they were confronted by the armed men. Following an exchange,
three men were found suffering from gunshot wounds. They were taken to hospital where they subsequently died from their injuries. (Jamaica Observer)
Protests hamper Honduran special vote recount in latest election turmoil
The Head of Honduras' National Electoral Council, Ana Paola Hall, said on Monday that protests in the capital Tegucigalpa have delayed the start of a special recount of some of the ballots from the contested November 30 presidential election.
Hundreds of supporters of the ruling leftist party LIBRE protested on Monday outside the building where ballots are being stored.
The protest prevented election workers from beginning a hand recount of some 15 per cent of the tally sheets – representing hundreds of thousands of ballots – that
are said to have "inconsistencies".
In a post on X, Hall said the protest "prevented the necessary conditions for the special recount to begin".
It's the latest delay of the vote-tallying process as Honduras remains in a state of political paralysis more than two weeks after the nationwide election.
Former President Mel Zelaya, the husband of current President Xiomara Castro, called for supporters of the ruling LIBRE party to also protest on Monday and to demand a hand recount of every ballot from the contested election.
The latest preliminary results show conservative National Party's Nasry Asfura in the lead with 40.54 per cent of the vote, about 43,000 votes ahead of the centre-right Liberal Party's Salvador Nasralla, who has 39.19 per cent of the vote. Trailing far behind in third place with 19.29 per cent of the vote is Rixi Moncada, of the ruling leftist LIBRE party. The tally sheets to be reviewed in the special hand count could easily flip the result standings of the two frontrunners, Asfura and Nasralla. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Antigua and Barbuda assumes chairmanship of prominent United Nations body
Antigua and Barbuda is now chairing the 31st session of the Caribbean Development and Cooperation Committee (CDCC) for the period 20262028, marking a pivotal moment for the nation as it now takes leadership in navigating some of the most pressing challenges facing the Region.
According to a press release, the chairmanship was handed over to Antigua and Barbuda by Trinidad and Tobago during the 22nd meeting of the CDCC held in Trinidad last week. The CDCC was established in 1975 by way of resolution by the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC). It was given the mandate to foster regional cooperation for economic and social development. Today it is championing the unique concerns of Caribbean small island developing states, including developing collec-
tive responses to challenges including climate change, disaster resilience, sustainable financing, as well as deepening South-South cooperation.
Antigua and Barbuda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Walton Webson, who was in Trinidad for the formal hand over, welcomed the country’s new leadership role at
the forefront of another distinguished and influential body as both opportune and timely.
“This leadership mandate could not have come at a better time, as it will help us to champion the ABAS decade as the regional implementation framework for SIDS resilience,” Ambassador Webson noted.
(Excerpt from Antigua Observer)
Dominican Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit
A demonstrator pours fuel on a barricade of burning tyres as part of a protest nearly two weeks after the presidential election, as the vote remains stalled amid uncounted ballots, fraud accusations and electoral system failures, in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, December 15, 2025 (Reuters/Fredy Rodriguez photo)
Antigua and Barbuda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Walton Webson
OIL NEWS
Oil prices fall as supply outlook offsets disruptions in Venezuelan flows
Oil prices slid on Monday as investors balanced disruptions linked to escalating US-Venezuelan tensions with oversupply concerns and the impact of a potential RussiaUkraine peace deal.
Brent crude futures settled down 56 cents, or 0.92 per cent, to US$60.56 a barrel, and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude settled at US$56.82 a barrel, down 62 cents, or 1.08 per cent.
Both contracts slid more than four per cent last week, weighed down by expectations of a global oil surplus in 2026.
Venezuela’s oil exports have fallen sharply since the US seized a tanker last week and imposed fresh sanctions on shipping companies and vessels doing business with the Latin American oil producer, according to shipping data, documents, and maritime sources.
The market is closely monitoring developments and their impact on oil supply, with Reuters reporting the US plans to intercept more ships carrying oil from Venezuela following the tanker seizure, intensifying pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Venezuela’s State-run oil company PDVSA suffered a cyberattack, it said on Monday, and tankers due to pick up crude there were making U-turns as tensions escalated.
“The grind lower in oil prices and the achieving of month-todate lows across the major futures complex last week might have seen more negative pricing if it were not for the upping of the ante by the United States with regard to Venezuela,” said John Evans, an analyst with PVM.
Still, ample oil supplies already en route to China – Venezuela’s biggest oil buyer – as well as plentiful global supplies and weaker demand are buffering some of the impact of supply disruptions tied to the tanker seizure.
Market remains focused on geopolitics
Progress in US peace talks also pushed the market lower on Monday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy offered to drop his country’s aspiration to join the NATO military alliance as he held five hours of talks with US envoys in Berlin on Sunday. A second round of talks concluded on Monday.
“Over the past two days, Ukrainian-US negotiations have been constructive and productive, with real progress achieved,” Rustem Umerov, Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council, wrote on X after Monday’s talks.
A possible peace deal could eventually increase Russian oil supply, which is currently sanctioned by Western countries.
Rising expectations of a surplus also weighed on prices, as did weaker economic data out of China. Factory output there slowed to a 15-month low in November, while retail sales grew at their weakest pace since December 2022.
JP Morgan Commodities Research said in a note on Saturday that oil surpluses in 2025 were expected to widen further into 2026 and 2027, as global oil supply was projected to outpace demand, expanding at three times the rate of demand growth through 2026.
“Risk off, with US equities markets trading lower, and weakerthan-expected Chinese economic data are not helping crude oil,” said Giovanni Staunovo, an analyst with UBS. (Reuters)
Around the World
US dangles security guarantees for Ukraine, but no deal on "painful" territorial concessions
The United States has offered to provide NATO-style security guarantees for Kyiv as US and European negotiators reported progress in talks on Monday to end the war with Russia, but a deal on territorial concessions remained elusive.
Envoys sent by US President Donald Trump made the unprecedented offer at talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Berlin, US officials said, but warned such a deal would not be on the table forever.
The talks in the German capital have sparked some optimism from European leaders on a path to end Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War Two. However, Moscow is yet to agree to any of the changes discussed in Germany and has not indicated any willingness to do so.
“We’re trying to get it done,” Trump said of an agreement to end the war, speaking at the White House after he called into a dinner involving the key officials in Berlin. “We had nu-
merous conversations with President (Vladimir) Putin of Russia, and I think we’re closer now than we have been ever and we’ll see what we can do,” Trump added.
European leaders cautiously welcomed the Trump
Administration’s apparent shift on security guarantees for Ukraine.
“For the first time since the war began, the possibility of a ceasefire is conceivable,” said German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who hosted the meetings, in a post on X.
The US is leaning on Ukraine to withdraw its forces from the eastern Donetsk region, an official familiar with the matter said, in what would be a massive concession that could cause a ferocious backlash in Ukraine.
Calling the issue of territorial concessions “painful”, Zelenskyy told reporters later: “Frankly speaking, we still have different positions.” But he said he believed US mediators would help find a compromise. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Sydney mourns 15 killed in Australia’s worst mass
Dozens of people lined up early today at Sydney’s Bondi Beach to pay tribute to the 15 victims and those wounded in Sunday’s Hanukkah festival shootings, Australia’s worst mass shooting in nearly 30 years.
shooting in nearly 30 years
The death toll stands at 16, including one of the alleged gunmen, aged 50, who was shot by Police on Sunday. The man’s 24-yearold son and alleged accomplice was in critical condition in hospital, Police said on Monday.
The pair allegedly fired upon hundreds of people at a Jewish Hanukkah festival being held at Bondi Beach, forcing people to flee and take shelter amid the carnage.
Police have not released the suspects’ names but national broadcaster ABC and other media have identified them as Sajid Akram and his son Naveed Akram. There are currently 25 survivors receiving care in several Sydney hospitals, officials said. (Excerpt from Reuters)
ICC rejects Israeli bid to halt Gaza war investigation
Appeals judges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Monday rejected one in a series of legal challenges brought by Israel against the court’s probe into its conduct of the Gaza war.
On appeal, Judges refused to overturn a lower court decision that the prosecution’s investigation into alleged crimes under its jurisdiction could include events following the deadly attack on Israel by militant Palestinian group Hamas on October 7, 2023.
Manhunt for Brown University shooter renewed after Police release detained man
Police Officers were going door-to-door on Monday seeking footage from home surveillance cameras as investigators renewed a manhunt for the gunman who killed two students and injured seven more in a classroom at Brown University.
The search for the suspect, which included posting new video footage of the possible shooter, resumed after authorities released a man they had detained
over the weekend as a “person of interest”.
The news that the gunman remained at large put Providence back on edge, though officials said there were no credible threats to the community and that they would not reimpose a shelter-in-place order for the campus and the surrounding area that had been lifted earlier.
“People are very confused and nervous,” said Sue Erkkinen, a real es-
tate agent. “We are staying indoors. We have all been glued to the TV, and it looks like the manhunt is now back on.”
An FBI special agent in charge from Boston, Ted Docks, said a US$50,000 reward was being offered for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the suspect, who he said was presumed to be armed and dangerous. (Excerpt from Reuters)
The ruling means the investigation continues and the arrest warrants issued last year for Israeli
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former defence chief, Yoav Gallant remain in place.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry called the ruling an example of the ICC’s disregard for the sovereign rights of countries who are not members of the court, in a post on social media platform X. Israel denies war crimes in Gaza, where it has waged a military campaign it says is aimed at eliminating Hamas following the October 7 attacks.
The ICC had initially also issued a warrant for Hamas leader Ibrahim al-Masri for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity, but withdrew that later following credible reports of his death. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Director of “When Harry Met Sally”, wife found dead
The son of Hollywood actor and filmmaker
Rob Reiner has been arrested and charged with the murder of his parents after they were found dead in their home over the weekend, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) said on Monday.
Nick Reiner, 32, who had struggled with substance abuse, was arrested on Sunday night and is be-
ing held in jail with no bail, the Police Department said in a press release. Jail documents earlier showed bail had been set at US$4 million.
Read about innovative ideas and the people working on solutions to global crises with the Reuters Beacon newsletter. Sign up here.
Police found Rob Reiner, 78, the director of beloved movies like “When
Harry Met Sally...” and his wife Michele, 70, dead at their home in the upscale Brentwood neighbourhood of Los Angeles on Sunday afternoon.
The LAPD said their investigation “determined that the Reiners were the victims of homicide” and that their son “was responsible for their deaths.” (Excerpt from Reuters)
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attend a press conference, at the Chancellery in Berlin, Germany, December 15, 2025 (Reuters/ Annegret Hilse photo)
A Palestinian woman walks past residential buildings damaged and destroyed during the war, in Gaza City, December 14, 2025
(Reuters/Dawoud Abu Alkas photo)
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Keep your emotions out of any financial decisions you make. You can't buy love, but you can use kindness and hands-on help to draw others into your circle. A confident, polished presentation will open doors.
Letting your emotions take charge will lead to trouble. Focus on how you look, feel and present yourself to your associates. Choose health over indulgent temptations and peace over chaos.
A change of scenery will adjust your perspective. Don't let what others do alarm you or disrupt your plans. Choose to head in a direction that offers an agenda to follow, and you will achieve what you aspire to do.
Talks will give you the lowdown regarding any change or gamble you consider. Be aware of timelines and year-end deadlines. Speak up, follow through and enjoy the ride.
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ARCHIE
The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) has announced adjustments to the Guyana Under-13 squad currently engaged in a 40-over series against Barbados, as part of its ongoing commitment to youth development and talent identification.
In an official statement released on the GCB’s Facebook page, the Board said the changes are intended to increase participation among Under-13 cricketers and broaden access to a wider pool of young players at a critical
stage of the player development pathway. The initiative aligns with the GCB’s long-term vision of strengthening Guyana’s cricket pipeline, with particular focus on preparation for next year’s Regional Under-15 tournament.
According to the statement, the expanded focus on youth development will require strategic adjustments to ensure that more young players are identified, nurtured and provided with meaningful competitive exposure. The Board emphasised that
giving additional players the opportunity to participate at this level is essential for their growth and future progression within the sport.
As part of these adjustments, the GCB confirmed that seven players will be joining the Guyana Under-13 team for the final three matches of the series against Barbados. The players are Brandon Grimmond, Afridi Khan, Daquan Lewis, Aaron DeCosta, Daniel Johnson, Ajay Kissoon, and Hezekiah Hohenkirk.
Axar ruled out of last 2 T20Is against South Africa; Shahbaz named replacement
Axar Patel has been ruled out of the last two T20 Internationals (T20Is) against South Africa due to illness. Shahbaz Ahmed has been named his replacement.
"He [Axar] is with the team in Lucknow [the venue for the fourth T20I], where he will be further medically assessed," the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said in a statement.
Axar had missed the third T20I in Dharamsala as well. Jasprit Bumrah, too, was unavailable for that game because of personal reasons. India replaced them with Kuldeep Yadav and Harshit Rana and went on to win by seven wickets.
Axar had mixed returns in the first two games. In Cuttack, he scored 23 off 21 and took 2 for 7 in a winning cause. In New Chandigarh, he picked up 1 for 27 from three overs and then, with India chasing 214, he was
promoted to number three. He could score only a run-a-ball 21.
Shahbaz has played three One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and two T20Is for India, the last of which was the 2023 Asian Games final against Afghanistan in Hangzhou. He had lukewarm returns in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Playing for Bengal, he scored only 60 runs in five matches at a strike rate of 133.33 and took four wickets at an economy of 8.25.
After the fourth T20I in Lucknow, the teams will move to
series 2-1.
India's updated squad for the last two T20Is: Suryakumar Yadav (Captain); Shubman Gill (Vice Captain); Abhishek Sharma; Tilak Varma; Hardik Pandya; Shivam Dube; Jitesh Sharma (wicketkeeper); Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper); Jasprit Bumrah; Varun Chakravarthy; Arshdeep Singh; Kuldeep Yadav; Harshit Rana; Washington Sundar and Shahbaz Ahmed. (ESPNcricinfo)
Moore talks South American ranking ahead of 2026 season
Eight hundred metres
specialist Aaliyah Moore had one of her better seasons for Guyana, finishing her 2025 season as the number one-ranked female 800m athlete in South America despite having her physical struggles throughout the year.
In a phone interview with Guyana Times Sport, Moore described that despite her ranking in South America, she did encounter a few difficulties during the season.
“Fortunately for me I did perform at Regionals, where I ran 2:03s first round and 2:02s in the second round and I was able to go to Nationals and then finish at Nationals in the top 16 which gave me the status of being an All-American. So, it was a pretty rough season and it’s been pretty rough for the most part over the few years
due to me being injured,” Moore highlighted. Nevertheless, Moore, who is back to 100 per cent health, expects to have a strong 2026.
“Next season I know for sure is going to be great because this is my first season getting a full offseason training from August up until now,” she said.
Further, Moore also highlighted how well her training is going ahead of
her 2026 season, “Training has been going great. I have improved in so many areas, I have gotten so stronger and I am just overall happy and my confidence is back, mentally I am there, physically I am there and I am just excited for what’s to come because I know what’s to come,” Moore confidently noted. Her season will commence in January of 2026.
GCB expands Guyana Under-13 squad
The Board noted that the inclusion of these players reflects their strong performances and continued development at the youth
level. Their selection represents the next step in their cricketing journey and provides them with valuable exposure to competitive regional cricket.
“The Guyana Cricket Board extends congratulations to the players and wishes them success moving forward,” the statement concluded.
The move has been welcomed by youth cricket observers as a positive step towards expanding opportunities for young cricketers and reinforcing Guyana’s commitment to building a strong foundation for the future of the game.
Spartans claim top honours at GVF End-game Beach Volleyball tournament
The Guyana Volleyball Federation successfully staged “The End Game” Beach Volleyball Tournament over the weekend at the Marriott Beach Front, delivering two days of exciting, high-energy volleyball action as the country’s top teams battled for supremacy on the sand. The quarter-final matches were competitive as the eight teams showed desire and passion. Spartans set the tone early with a commanding 2-0 victory over
final quarterfinal was the most contested, as Spartan Spikers edged Telly Tubbies 2-1 to secure their spot in the semifinals. In the semi-finals,
Glasgow Rangers, showcasing their championship intent. Upsetters lived up to their name by defeating the Champs 2-0, while Paradise also advanced with a straightsets win over Magnets. The
Spartans continued their dominant run, defeating Paradise 2-0 with disciplined defence and powerful attacking play. Upsetters matched that performance in the second semifinal,
overcoming Spartan Spikers 2-0 to book a place in the championship final.
The third-place playoff saw Paradise rebound strongly, defeating Spartan Spikers 2-0 to claim the bronze medal position.
The highly-anticipated final between Spartans and Upsetters lived up to expectations, with both teams displaying skill, speed, and determination. However, Spartans proved too strong on the day, securing a convincing 2-0 victory to be crowned tournament champions.
At the conclusion of the event, individual and team awards were presented. Spartans captured first place, Upsetters finished second, and Paradise claimed third. The Most Promising Player award went to Clarence Lucius of Telly Tubbies, whose standout performances throughout the tournament earned widespread praise despite his team’s early exit. The Guyana Volleyball Federation (GVF) expressed satisfaction with the successful hosting of the tournament, noting the strong turnout, competitive matches, and high standard of play. “The End Game” tournament once again highlighted the growth of beach volleyball in Guyana and the depth of talent within the local volleyball community.
Aaron DeCosta
Hezekiah Hohenkirk
Ahmedabad for the finale. India currently lead the five-match
Axar Patel had missed the third T20I as well
Spartans in action vs Paradise
Vance Harding (left) and Juan Velazquez collecting their firstplace prize from GVF President John Flores
Clarence Lucius (left) collecting an award from Nedson Britto, the Technical Director of Beach Volleyball for the State of Roraima, Brazil
Aaliyah Moore
One Guyana/K&S President’s Futsal Championship…
Defending champs Sparta Boss begin title defence as Round of 32 kicks off
As the action heats up in the third One Guyana Kashif & Shanghai President’s Futsal Championship coordinated by the Kashif & Shanghai Organisation in association with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, room for any lapses will be minimised from tonight when the round of 32 get cracking with five matches.
The top 16 teams from the 2024/2025 edition who drew byes to this round will now be tested and based on their performances last time around, are tipped to get into the Round of Sixteen, no guarantees though.
The main clash tonight at the tournament venue, Cliff Anderson Sports Hall will feature defending champions
Sparta Boss against firstround winner Laing Avenue. The star-studded Sparta side coached by Gregory “Jackie Chan” Richardson just off delivering Guyana’s maiden title win at the Inter-Guiana Games will fancy their chances of going all the way.
Setting things in train will be North East and firstround winner Kingston from 20:00h. Bent Street B will seek to topple another firstround winner, Kanaimas in the second match of the night followed by Silver Bullets taking on Make It Happen. Back Circle will take centre stage when they match skills with Sophia Ballers in the night’s penultimate clash.
Fans can look forward to a night of pulsating rivalry as teams continue to keep
their eyes on the top prize of $3 million.
Thursday night will see another five matches contested when Team Family come up against Agricola Ballers in the opener, followed by Gold is Money against West Side Ballers, Team Cruel
and Ballers United, Bent Street A versus Alexander Village and North Ruimveldt versus Stabroek Ballers.
Six matches are slated for Friday Night: Festival City versus Beavers, Z-Tekk versus Corinthians, YMCA versus Melanie, Lethem
versus Espanyol, Bomb Squad versus Albouystown and Road Warriors versus Footsteppers.
Schools’ round-robin continues today
Play in the round-robin format for schools will continue today at the same venue from 12:00h with six matches. Carmel will face off with Westminster, Charlestown come up against St Joseph High, West Demerara engage the Bishops’ High, VYC Academy play New Central High, Cummings Lodge battle Annandale and Hope Secondary test Lodge.
A total of seven matches will set the Hall alive on Thursday at the same time: St Jospeh High v Carmel, St John’s College v Charlestown,
South Ruimveldt v Bishops’ High, New Central v West Demerara, Brickdam v Cummings Lodge, Annandale v Dolphin and West Ruimveldt v North Ruimveldt.
The organisers are expressing thanks to the following sponsors: Government of Guyana, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport; Ministry of Tourism; Ministry of Amerindian Affairs; ANSA McAL; Rashleigh Sam Enterprise; Bakewell; Cevons Environmental Services; Dinars Trading; Maggie’s; Jai Signs and Designs; Star Party Rentals; Super Bet; Hits and Jams 94.1FM; Jumbo Jet; MVP Sports; GENEQUIP; Impressions and Colours Boutique.
VMFA enjoys successful international tour
The Vurlon Mills Football Academy (VMFA) has returned from a highly-successful international tour, marking another important milestone in the academy’s ongoing mission to develop young footballers through exposure, competition, and life-changing experiences.
Competing against strong regional opposition, VMFA teams showcased not only
their talent and preparation, but also their discipline, character, and growing football intelligence on the international stage.
According to the Academy, international tournaments play a critical role in the holistic development of young athletes. For VMFA players, these competitions provide exposure to different playing styles, higher levels of inten-
sity, and professional environments that cannot always be replicated at home.
Facing unfamiliar opponents challenges players to adapt quickly, build confidence under pressure, and apply their training in real-match situations.
Beyond football, these experiences foster independence, culture and resilience – qualities that are essential
both on and off the field.
A release from the Academy went on to indicate that for the VMFA kids, this tour meant more than just matches played and goals scored. It represented opportunity, belief, and vision. Many of these young athletes experienced their first international competition, wore their academy colours with pride, and measured themselves against some of the best youth teams in the region.
They noted, “These moments inspire dreams, raise standards, and reinforce the message that with commitment and hard work, their potential has no limit.
Pooran opens up on international retirement
Nicholas Pooran’s decision to retire from international cricket at the age of 29 earlier this year sent shock waves through the cricketing world, particularly in the Caribbean. Widely regarded as one of the most destructive T20 batters of his generation, the former West Indies Captain has stepped away from international duty while still in his prime, choosing instead to focus on the next phase of his career.
Speaking candidly on the Beard Before the Wicket Podcast, alongside hosts Moeen Ali, Adil Rashid and Nubaid Haroon, Pooran addressed the criticism and speculation surrounding his decision, insisting it was a deeply- personal choice made with long-term clarity.
“I told him it's just about time for me to move on and do what's best for my career. I mentioned earlier and everybody thinks they know what's best for your career. And I just feel like, mean I think people have an issue with it because I'm quite young. But what's young? If I wake up tomorrow and get injured and my career finishes. Yeah. Is that young?”
Pooran acknowledged the emotional response from fans and supporters, but stressed that he fully understands the consequences of his decision.
“I think through all my decisions I make, because I understand it have consequences. I understand that people are going to be angry and disappointed in any decision anybody makes. And this
has nothing to do with West Indies cricket how it is, what it is ,what's happening. This has nothing to do with that. This is all about what Nicholas Pooran wants and this is something everyone has to come on board with as well.”
Much of the criticism directed at Pooran has centred on the belief that he has prioritised franchise cricket and financial gain over national duty. However, the Trinidadian left-hander rejected the idea that players should wait until the twilight of their careers before embracing global leagues.
“So what people want is that they want people to retire at 35 or 36 when they're done; they've represented the country, committed 100 per
cent, and then go and play leagues and make money, but when you reach that age now, your value goes down –right, your value goes down – so then you hear all these other cricketers going and playing leagues now when they're finishing off their careers, but when you look at it and you look at the structure of teams that don't want those personnel who are not going to offer a lot, right, the cricketing world has changed so much and stuff, and I'm sure people are criticising me now for, “Oh, he's probably going to play for money,” but I'm actually in a primary career. I have a lot to offer, right? I'm going to score runs, I'm going to win new games, and I'm going to win new titles.”
Pooran’s comments re-
“VMFA will continue to invest in these powerful development initiatives because they are proven pathways to growth. In an environment where consistent high-lev-
Results:
Under-11 Division – 3rd place
U11 campaign stats: 7 matches played 6 wins 13 goals scored Every player took the field
Under-13 Division – 2nd place
U13 campaign stats 9 matches played 7 wins 15 goals scored
flect a broader shift in modern cricket, where players increasingly balance national pride with career longevity and opportunity in an evolving global game. While his absence will leave a significant void in West Indies cricket, Pooran remains firm in his belief that stepping away now is the right move – for him.
el competition can be limited, international tours bridge the gap and accelerate player development.
“The Academy remains committed to creating platforms that expose its athletes to quality competition and prepare them for future opportunities at higher levels of the game.
“This successful tour is not an end, but another step forward in VMFA’s longterm vision of developing well-rounded players and future ambassadors of football.”
The schoolboys’ action will also continue today
Nicholas Pooran made a shock retirement from international cricket
Snippets from the VMFA’s recently-concluded youth tour
KFC Goodwill Tournament…
“The defending champions are here”— Wharton … Suriname, Trinidad
Astrong statement was made by the defending champions of the KFC Goodwill international football tournament and it was done without a word said.
Taking to the field for the tournament’s opening match on Sunday afternoon, Chase’s Academic Foundation displayed their superior skill, decimating the Anglican Central Education Authority (ACEA) Select of The Bahamas 24-1.
The chief marksman and Captain of the team, Bryan Wharton, though no explanation was needed, later shared why it was important for his team to stamp their authority early.
Wharton told <<<Guyana Times Sport>>>, “It was very important to send out a message to everybody that the defending champs is here and we’re here to defend our title.
“I think the boys were excited, leading up to this
game, very eager to play and it could show on the pitch how we come out and dominate.”
Wharton went on to express his thoughts on their upcoming fixtures, “We feel a lot more confident because anybody coming and face us, they will know that Chase coming with dominance.”
Meanwhile, more on-field action on Sunday night saw Suriname’s Technical School of Nickerie and St Benedict’s College of Trinidad and Tobago
secure opening-round wins
coming away with comfortable wins at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground, Carifesta Avenue.
Suriname cruised past Brazil’s Jose Viera De Salles Guerra School of Brazil, in what has been the tournament’s most shocking result thus far.
Darien Doris opened the scoring for Guyana’s eastern neighbour in the 16th minute while Jizreel Sedoc netted their second in the 76th after a team effort held off Brazil’s counterattack.
Thereafter, a brace off the boots of Jelani Stoute in the 55th and 69th minutes led St Benedict’s to a 4-0 defeat of Region Nine’s Annai Secondary.
Josiah Barrow had opened the Trinidadians’ account in the 39th minute while Jelani Scott added his name to the scoresheet in the 72nd minute.
The KFC Goodwill action continues today with four more group stage matches on the cards. At the Queen’s College Ground, Thomas Lands, Jamaica’s Kingston
College will battle ACEA of The Bahamas from 12:30h, followed by a clash between T&T’s St Benedict’s College and Suriname’s Technical School of Nickerie at 14:30h. The excitement will then shift to the MoE Ground, Carifesta Avenue where Chase’s Academic Foundation will take on West Ruimveldt in an all-Guyanese battle at 18:00h, followed by Jose Viera School of Brazil going head-tohead with Annai Secondary at 20:00h.
Galo White delivers historic 1st G1 win for Slingerz Racing Stable
Slingerz Racing Stable
etched its name into Brazilian horse racing history on Sunday when Galo White stormed to victory in the prestigious Linneo de Paula Machado Grand Prix (G1) at the iconic Hipódromo da Gávea in Rio de Janeiro.
Run over 2000 meters on soft turf, the Group 1 feature was the centrepiece
of the Founder's Meeting and delivered a landmark success for all connections involved.
The Linneo de Paula Machado Grand Prix, named in honour of one of Brazil’s most innovative and passionate turf enthusiasts, annually brings together the elite of Brazilian racing. This year’s renewal carried even greater significance, producing a series
of firsts that underscored the magnitude of Galo White’s achievement.
From the moment the gates opened, Galo White did what he has become known for throughout his career, taking command immediately.
Breaking sharply, Galo White surged to the front within the opening meters, setting a controlled but confident pace
Cecil Beharry re-elected as BCB President
Dr Cecil Beharry was reelected as President of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) on Sunday last at the Rose Hall Community Centre Ground where the Annual General Meeting was held.
Beharry was re-elected unopposed for another twoyear term at the helm of Berbice cricket.
In addition to Beharry, the Vice Presidents, Secretaries and Treasurers were elected at the AGM.
The experienced David Blacks, Junior Blair and Qualis Winter were elected as the three Vice Presidents.
Educator Mahendra Algu was elected as Secretary of the BCB while Neil Rudder will be his assistant.
Rovin Bahadur was appointed treasurer while Coach Ameer Rahaman will serve as his assistant in that finance department.
The newly-elected executives would meet after the holidays to appoint committees and other executives and further discuss plans for the future
of Berbice cricket. Recently, on the field of play, Berbice cricket has suffered a lean patch, suffering defeat in the senior inter-county, male and female tournaments. Results for the junior tournaments were also a mixed bag during 2024 and 2025.
Meanwhile, the President, Executive and members of the Tucber Park Cricket Club (TPCC) congratulated Dr Beharry on his re-election as the President of the BCB.
The TPCC is fully committed in our support towards the Board in its efforts to develop cricket in the Ancient County, the Club shared.
Prior to the AGM, unofficial reports suggested that businessman Shabeer Baksh was in line for the top spot in Berbice cricket. However, he was not part of the official race as Beharry was unopposed.
under the guidance of reigning champion jockey João Victor. Despite the demanding soft turf, Galo White travelled smoothly, asserting himself as the field swept past the Flamengo sector and into the heart of the contest.
Unlike some of his previous front-running performances, Galo White did not attempt to stretch the field early. Instead, he dictated the tempo with authority, keeping his rivals within striking distance while conserving enough energy for the decisive stages.
Lake A Trojan, Treasure Cartier, Vitruvian, Oderich, Nova Déli, Express Moon and Mexicano all remained in close attendance as the race unfolded, waiting for an opportunity to challenge.
Approaching the final bend, pressure mounted.
Express Moon began to advance along the rail, while Nova Déli and Vitruvian also showed intent. For a brief moment, it appeared that the leader could be vulnerable. However, turning for home, Galo White demonstrated the maturity and class that have defined his recent form. Responding instantly to João Victor’s cues, he found another gear and powered clear.
Express Moon, ridden by Leandro Henrique, eventually found racing room and mounted a strong late challenge, but the effort came too late. Galo White maintained his advantage to the line, scoring decisively in 1 minute 58.46 seconds.
Express Moon finished a solid second, with Mexicano claiming third. Nova Déli and Vitruvian completed the minor placings.
The victory marked Galo White’s first-ever Group 1 success, a defining milestone in the career of the son of Goldikovic out of Trovoada, by Durba Thunder.
It was his seventh career win overall, his third victory at Gávea, and the third major title of his campaign following earlier successes in the Copa dos Campeões (G3 – Cidade Jardim) and the GP Almirante Tamandaré (G2 – Gávea).
Sunday’s result also represented a breakthrough moment for trainer Lênio Roberto Vieira, who secured his first Group 1 trophy. Widely respected for his efficiency and attention to detail when handling high-quality horses, Vieira’s achievement was a testament to years of dedication and tireless work alongside his team.
For jockey Victor, the win carried special meaning as well. The talented rider from Pernambuco celebrated his first Group 1 victory, executing a flawless ride that combined patience, confidence and precision at the highest level.
Slingerz Racing Stable owner
Javed Ali was understandably elated by the historic win, particularly given the elite nature of the competition.
“This race featured the very best of Group 1 racing in Brazil, so to come out on top is incredibly special for us. I’m extremely grateful to the groomers and trainers in Brazil. They’ve done an amazing job with Galo White, and I truly appreciate everything they’ve done,” Ali said.
The win also carried national significance. Believing firmly in the strength of Brazilian horse racing, Slingerz Racing achieved its first top-level victory in the country, an accomplishment expected to further stimulate investment and confidence in the sport.
Adding another layer of history, the Linneo de Paula Machado Grand Prix underwent a format change in 2025, expanding eligibility from three-year-olds only to include horses aged three and older, in line with the Latin American Championship. As a result, Galo White became the first horse over three years old to claim this coveted title.
Chase’s Academic Foundation had a team of goal-scorers in their 24-1 victory on Sunday
St Benedict’s College’s goal-scorers
Front row sitting from left to right: Junior Blair, Dr Cecil Beharry, David Blacks, and Qualis Winter. From left to right, back row: Rovin Bahadur, Mahendra Algu and Neil Rudder
Galo White on the verge of victory at the Linneo de Paula Machado Grand Prix in Brazil
Galo White on the verge of victory at the Linneo de Paula Machado Grand Prix in Brazil