Guyana leads push to break decades-old regional trade barriers with Grenada bilateral deal
International Civil Aviation Day
Guyana made significant progress in air transport infrastructure, regulations – GCAA Head
Guyana joins the global community in observing International Civil Aviation Day, under this year’s theme, “Safe Skies and Sustainable Future for All.” In a message marking the occasion, Director General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Egbert Field, emphasised the role of a robust aviation sector in supporting economic growth, social integration and international connectivity. He noted that Guyana has consistently aligned its operations with the Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), positioning the country as a regional leader in aviation.
Over the past year, he said that Guyana has made significant advancements in its air transport infrastructure and regulatory framework, including breaking ground on a second terminal at Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA); conducting a comprehensive study to optimise the Georgetown Flight
Information Region (FIR) airspace; adding numerous new aircraft to the national registry; upgrading infrastructure at Ogle Airport; implementing Standard Instrument Departure (SID) and Standard Terminal Arrival Route (STAR) procedures; signing air services agreements with six additional ICAO member states, expanding the country’s network to over 50 international agreements and entering into Memoranda of Understanding with Cabo Verde and the Dominican Republic to collaborate on aviation initiatives.
The Director General highlighted the development of the Civil Aviation Training School (CATS), which recently earned the ICAO Train Air Plus Accreditation adding that this recognition affirms the school’s capacity to deliver globally accredited aviation training, including virtual programmes that have reached participants across the Caribbean. Field also pointed to Guyana’s recent successes in ICAO audits, with scores of 66.36 per cent under the Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme
(USOAP) and 80.12 per cent under the Universal Security Audit Programme (USAP). These results reflect the country’s ongoing commitment to safety, security and continuous improvement in its aviation sector.
Looking ahead, Guyana plans to launch the ICAO NGAP+ programme, advancing President Dr Irfaan Ali’s vision of establishing the country as a re-
gional aviation hub, the Director General acknowledged the support of the President and Deodat Indar, Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, as instrumental in elevating Guyana’s international aviation profile. He also extended congratulations to Onuma Toshiyuki on his election as the new Council President of ICAO. International Civil Aviation Day is observed on December 7 each year.
Director General of GCAA, Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Egbert Field
BRIDGE OPENING
DECEMBER
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, December 9 –07:50h-09:20h and Wednesday, December 10 – 08:45h-10:15h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Thundery showers are expected throughout the day and into the night. Temperatures are expected to range between 22 degrees Celsius and 28 degrees Celsius.
Winds: Easterly to East North-Easterly between 2.68 metres and 4.92 metres.
High Tide: 07:35h and 19:49h reaching maximum heights of 2.34 metres and 2.42 metres.
Low Tide: 13:21h reaching a minimum height of 0.91 metre.
Guyana leads push to break decades-old regional trade barriers with Grenada bilateral deal
The Government of Guyana signaled a major deepening of bilateral cooperation on Monday evening, with President Dr Irfaan Ali announcing plans to finalise a long-term food security agreement with and Grenada, one that could reshape agricultural trade across the Caribbean Community (Caricom) and dismantle long-standing regional barriers. Speaking at the opening of the Office of the Honorary Consul for Grenada on New Market Street, Georgetown, President Ali said Guyana is ready to become Grenada’s most reliable supplier of qu-
ality food at stable prices, while also proposing joint investments to rebuild and modernise Grenada’s world-renowned spice industry. “We hope that in the first quarter of next year, our two sides can sit down and sign an elaborate bilateral agreement where Guyana can be your most trusted partner in supplying quality, consistent food at consistent prices…But we don’t just want a long-term supply agreement, we want to examine joint investment in rebuilding the spice industry, retooling it, and creating the capacity between our two countries to process and package spices for the region and the world,” the President said.
President Ali described the initiative as a model for the region, one that could finally break down outdated laws and informal obstructions that have kept Caricom food trade stagnant for decades.
“We believe that this approach will allow the rest of the region to also accelerate the decommissioning of artificial barriers on their borders and the decommissioning of arcade rules, trade laws and legislation that many leaders and countries in the region hide under as their inability to work closer with each other. If there is a law that prevents you from buying more food, from a sister state, democracy allows you the latitude to fix that problem in your parliament. It is not the law… if we want to win, and win together, we have to break
those decade-old barriers,” Ali said
New era of bilateralism
President Ali praised Grenada as a long-standing partner and champion of Caricom integration, noting that the new consulate opens another channel for deepened ties. He highlighted that Caricom remains the region’s most important platform for advan-
cing shared interests from trade and security to climate resilience and education. Bilateral engagements,
in investment, agriculture and commerce.
he said, allow states to unlock opportunities tailored to each other’s needs. Guyana and Grenada have already begun that process. Last year, a Grenadian Government and private-se-
ctor trade mission visited Georgetown, scouting opportunities
More recently, the launch of direct flights between the two countries has opened the door to expanded tourism, business and cultural exchanges.
President Dr Irfaan Ali and Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell at the unveiling of the plaque for the new Grenada Consulate in New Market Street, Georgetown on Monday evening (DPI photo)
Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell
Grenada has appointed local businessman Dr Komal Singh as the Honorary Consul in Guyana (DPI photo)
Editor: Tusika Martin
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Digital violence & hidden threats of online age
The rapid proliferation of digital technology and social media has transformed the way societies communicate, learn, and engage with the world. Instant messaging, online learning platforms, and social media networks have become integral to daily life, offering unprecedented opportunities for connection and knowledge sharing. Yet, as the digital environment expands, so too does the potential for harm. Among the most pressing challenges of this new era is digital violence, a phenomenon that remains poorly understood by many, despite its pervasive impact. Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud has drawn attention to this issue, emphasising the urgent need for awareness and action as part of the global 16 Days of Activism campaign.
Digital violence encompasses a wide range of online behaviours that cause harm, including cyberstalking, harassment, bullying, and identity-based attacks. These actions often occur in ordinary online interactions, making them easy to overlook or dismiss. What is particularly concerning is the subtlety of these threats; while many individuals may experience harassment or intimidation online, they may not recognise these incidents as forms of digital violence. The lack of understanding surrounding the concept contributes to its persistence, leaving victims without the knowledge or tools to protect themselves or seek recourse.
The evolving nature of digital technology has introduced new, more complex forms of abuse. Artificial intelligence, while offering tremendous potential for innovation, has also created avenues for exploitation. AI-powered tools can now be misused to impersonate others, steal identities, and disseminate harmful content. Individuals can find their images, likenesses, or personal information manipulated and published without consent, leading to serious reputational and emotional consequences. One of the most alarming manifestations is the creation of manipulated images, instances in which an individual’s face is placed onto another person’s body or inserted into fabricated scenarios. These acts, often referred to as “deepfakes”, inflict real harm on both public figures and private citizens alike, demonstrating that digital violence can affect anyone, regardless of social standing.
While social media provides significant advantages in communication, education, and civic engagement, its darker dimensions cannot be ignored. The realism of manipulated content, combined with the reach and speed of digital platforms, can make deception difficult to detect, amplifying the risk of harm. Awareness campaigns, such as those initiated by the Ministry of Human Services, play a critical role in equipping citizens with the knowledge to identify, report, and prevent digital abuse. Such campaigns are essential in creating a digitally-literate public capable of navigating online spaces safely and responsibly.
The sharing of images or videos without full awareness of potential consequences places young people at risk of exploitation and long-term harm. Content shared online can persist indefinitely, even after deletion, making responsible digital behaviour and education critical. Parents, guardians, and community leaders must engage young people in discussions about consent, privacy, and the permanence of online activity to ensure they understand both the benefits and risks of digital participation.
Women are frequently targeted for harassment, stalking, and image-based abuse, with attackers exploiting gender as a means of intimidation. Cyberattacks, identity theft, and the spread of misinformation are often employed to silence or harm women, highlighting the intersection between technology and systemic inequalities.
Laws that criminalise identity theft, harassment, and imagebased abuse are essential for holding perpetrators accountable. Digital platforms, too, bear responsibility for safeguarding users, implementing content moderation, security measures, and educational initiatives to prevent abuse. The combined effort of legislation, technology, and education is vital to reducing the incidence of digital violence.
The 16 Days of Activism campaign underscores the importance of public awareness in confronting digital violence. While connectivity has enriched lives, the potential for abuse is ever-present, necessitating a proactive and informed approach. Individuals, communities, and institutions must recognise that digital violence is not an abstract concept but rather a tangible threat with lasting consequences. Understanding, addressing, and preventing such abuse is essential to ensuring that the advantages of the digital age are not undermined by its risks.
Families and children enjoy a festive evening at the Christmas Village on Main Street, Georgetown during a special outdoor movie night at One Guyana Kitchen. Attendees watched “Home Alone” while savouring popcorn and treats. Upcoming movie nights are set for December 14 and 21 (Tourism Ministry photos)
Rebuking the politics of fabrication
Dear Editor,
In this new era of our political culture, we are constantly witnessing the proliferation of misinformation, which has become one of the most corrosive forces undermining our democratic and progressive discourse. Several days ago, presented yet another example of the lowest ebb in public behavior on social media by fellow Guyanese: the deliberate sharing of fabricated rumors, false propaganda, and sensationalised narratives targeting one of Guyana’s most prominent and consequential/important political figures. No matter if you love or hate him, no one can deny his significant contributions towards our country’s development in the past and at present, Honourable Bharrat Jagdeo.
This episode, propagated by known social media actors, though regrettable, is emblematic of a broader phenomenon where individuals lacking relevance or a sense of importance, or who are incapable of or choose not to make genuine and positive public contributions, resort to digital manipulation and cyberbullying in an attempt to manufacture visibility, accumulate online engagement, or convert controversy into monetized attention. Such conduct is not merely intellectually dishonest; it
is socially destabilising. The deliberate construction and promotion of falsehoods reflect a troubling departure from the ethical commitment that should guide public debate. Individuals who engage in these practices exploit the vulnerabilities of the digital information ecosystem where algorithms reward outrage, where speed eclipses accuracy, and truth is often overshadowed by theatricality. When the desire for personal gain, be it real or superficial, supersedes honesty and civic responsibility, the outcome is a polluted information landscape that weakens public trust, devalues meaningful political dialogue, threatens the integrity of governance, and brings the public to question the credibility of those individuals, “straight up.”
The craving impulse to create mischief through scandals, manufactured lies, stories, and innuendo arises from a deeper crisis of relevance. Those who lack substantive ideas, professional or personal achievements, or meaningful contributions to national development often rely on negativity as a surrogate for importance. By generating false narratives and controversy, they momentarily satisfy their desire for attention, even if it comes at the expense of truth, dam-
age to a person’s image, character, their family and business, or general public cohesion. Their tactics, however, reveal more about their own inadequacies and insecurities than about the individuals they attempt to malign. This week, we saw what appeared to be not one but coordinated attempts to defame Guyana’s Vice President, who remains fully engaged in the rigorous task of helping to steer the administration, plan and prepare the nation’s national budget, and execute critical governmental responsibilities for the country’s continued development and its people’s advancement during these challenging times. These actions clearly underscore the disconnect between political reality and online sensationalism. While these misinformation merchants chase fleeting digital gratification from likes and shares, the national leadership continues the more demanding and consequential work of governance for our people and country. Their efforts cannot and will not be derailed by the noise of unsubstantiated and vacuous claims.
From my vantage point, the persistence of such attacks reinforces the need for robust civic education, digital literacy, institutional mechanisms, and legislative
reform to safeguard the public sphere against such manipulative and dangerous narratives. The antidote to falsehood is not merely rebuttal, but a collective reaffirmation of truth as a democratic value.
Truth possesses the sustainability that fabrication lacks. False narratives may flare quickly, but they collapse under scrutiny; progress, on the other hand, endures.
Further, the new neophyte opposition has equally exhibited a willingness to embrace misinformation as a political tool is emblematic of a strategic void, an admission that substantive policy alternatives, credible leadership, or a demonstrable developmental vision are grossly lacking. Such a posture not only undermines their own legitimacy as a suitable alternative but also distances them further from the electorate. A «political movement» that relies on distortion as its primary currency cannot expect to earn public confidence in the long term, let alone govern effectively. If such behavior persists, it will not merely delay their desire to hold and lead in public office; it will entrench their irrelevance as a so-called “political movement.”
Disability cash grant and broader disability-inclusive measures
Dear Editor, I read, with great interest, the December 5, 2025 letter in a section of the media titled “Persons Living with Disabilities Deserve Dignity, not a One-Off Handout”. In the letter, the writer highlighted concerns that the one-off cash grant for persons with disabilities is insufficient and risks being perceived as a token gesture. While I appreciate the writer’s perspective that persons with disabilities deserve more than short-term relief, I believe the critique misses the broader context of the Government of Guyana’s December 3 announcement and the comprehensive measures outlined by His Excellency Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali in his International Day for Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) 2025 speech delivered at the luncheon hosted by the First Family on December 3. The measures outlined go well beyond the issuance of a single cash grant and form part of an evolving national framework aimed at expanding opportunity, increasing accessibility and empowering persons with disabilities. In the President’s speech it was clear that the cash grant is not meant to stand alone. It is one component
of a multi-layered plan designed to improve the lives of more than twenty-seven thousand (27,000) Guyanese living with disabilities. The writer of the December 5 letter interprets the grant as a mere political handout. However, the President’s announcement details a series of long-term, structural initiatives, which deserve recognition if we are to have a fair and balanced discussion on disability inclusion in Guyana. Firstly, I must highlight that President Irfaan Ali committed to facilitate the employment of at least five thousand (5,000) persons with disabilities within the next five years in both the private and public sectors. This is an unprecedented promise in Guyana’s disability policy space. Employment remains one of the most significant barriers for persons with disabilities, many of whom face lifelong income insecurity and poverty as a direct result of limited opportunities for earning an income. The promise of 5,000 jobs is not rhetoric; it signals a shift from passive assistance to active empowerment. We have already seen positive signs with the employment of one hundred (120) persons with disabilities at the Centre of Equity Opportunities and
Innovations in Palmira, and the employment of two persons each by seven utility companies and service providers. This was all done in the past few months. For a group historically excluded from the labour market, this commitment by His Excellency, when realised, will provide not only dignity but financial independence for the beneficiaries. Moreover, the President directed that a minimum of 10 per cent of all space in every new Government project, schools, community hubs, public offices, parks, and sports facilities, must be reserved specifically to serve persons with disabilities. This is a major step in mainstreaming accessibility into national planning rather than treating disability inclusion as an afterthought. Access to the built environment allows persons with disabilities to achieve a level of independence and allow them to participate in community life. Guyana’s expansion of public infrastructure is rapid; ensuring accessibility at this stage avoids recreating barriers for this community.
Another pertinent point is the President’s announcement that there will be a special facility for persons with disabilities at the soon-to-
be launched “Development Bank”. This will allow those persons who have small or medium size business to access financing to stimulate growth. Additionally, those persons with disabilities desirous of establishing new businesses can access concessionary financing to do so. This is another measure that will ensure persons with disabilities have the opportunity to be financially independent.
Finally, the President outlined a number of action areas to guide disability inclusive interventions. These include caregiver support, education with stronger digital access, community empowerment, accessible transportation, accessible healthcare, housing, improved public service accessibility, and vocational skills training. When combined, these areas reflect an under
standing that disability inclusion cannot be addressed by any single measure. Instead, it requires coordinated action across the various Government ministries and agencies that are directly responsible for empowering persons with disabilities.
The December 5 letter rightly emphasises rising standard of living costs and the need for long-term solutions. Yet these very con-
Dwarka Bahadur should be the last to speak
Dear Editor
Dwarka Bahadur, a candidate for the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, used his Facebook page to express criticism of a recent engagement between President Irfaan Ali and other Government officials with a team from India on December 06, 2025. According to the December 7, 2025, publication in a section of the media, the meeting focused on a recent examination by Indian experts within the sugar industry. Furthermore, the public was advised that a more comprehensive report was being prepared to guide specific interventions aimed at addressing shortcomings. From his Facebook armchair, Mr Bahadur, among other things, sought to throw cold water on efforts to address the issues plaguing
the industry. He went on to contend that the industry was capable of addressing its challenges. It is instructive to note that the gentleman was, until last year, responsible for factory operations across the sugar industry. As we understand it, the GuySuCo Management and Board decided not to renew his contract. Although we are not familiar with the reason(s) for the decision, it is reasonable to assume that a highly performing employee would be retained. Of course, some months after his ties with the industry were severed, we saw him donning a political cap, a right he enjoys as any Guyanese, though the timing would appear coincidental.
It is also not lost on us that the industry’s factories, in particular, have been a real let-down during the
ongoing second crop. From the reports we received, important and critical maintenance was not pursued and essential components were not replaced. Based on our knowledge of factory operations, some of these tasks should have been planned as far back as a year ago or even earlier. Yet inexplicably, they from all appearances, did not receive the attention they deserved. Is it a case of any absence of knowledge, or is there more in the mortar than the pestle can pound? Recently, President Ali emphasised the need to improve the industry’s management. This view is endorsed by the GAWU and supported by thousands of sugar workers. The President announced that a new model with clear KPIs was being developed. We believe this is a necessary
Rebuking the politics...
Ultimately, the TRUTH is resilient. Governance is measured not by online theatrics, but by the tangible and intangible national outcomes: economic growth, social stability, infrastructural development and transformation, an improved quality of life for the citizenry in a stable and safe environment. These are
the domains in which the President, Prime Minister, Vice President, and the administration continue to apply disciplined focus to achieve and maintain. It is quite clear that no volume of propaganda can or will overshadow their sustained performance.
In the long arc of political history, lies are temporary,
but tangible and intangible development is permanent. Those who invest in falsehoods will remain on the periphery of national development, observers rather than architects, critics rather than contributors. And unless they recalibrate toward integrity, constructive analysis, constructive criticism, truth, and substance that
step. Furthermore, His Excellency alluded to previous bouts of mismanagement and likened it to a colleague of Mr Bahadur. It is significant to note that Mr Bahadur’s colleague was also sent packing; again, would highly competent employees not be retained?
The GAWU remains supportive of measures and actions that would enhance the industry’s performance and efficiency. Indeed, we have long highlighted its potential and noted that it has been held back for various reasons. We believe an allhands-on-deck approach is essential, and the engagement of external resources would be critical to fostering a turnaround.
Yours faithfully,
Seepaul Narine GAWU’s President
can make offerings better and hold those in office accountable for their stewardship, their place on the opposition benches may very well extend far beyond the foreseeable political horizon.
Yours respectfully, Jermaine Figueira Former Member of Parliament
cerns are addressed within the multi-sector plan the President announced in his December 3 speech. The writer also lamented that the one-off cash grant does little to cover medical, transport, or assistive-device expenses. That argument is understandable. The challenges faced by persons with disabilities are indeed substantial. However, the purpose of a one-time grant is immediate relief, not the long-term solution that other components of the President’s strategy provided. A oneoff payment placed within a larger reform effort should not be dismissed. Instead, it should be seen as one step within a strategic approach which provides short-term support, while building systems that reduce dependency and expand opportunities in the future.
Moreover, the broader December 3 observance emphasised partnerships and community-based initiatives that complement state interventions. It also highlights the Government’s vision to move away from the charity approach to disability to a human rights approach to disability inclusion.
I am not suggesting through this letter that the Government’s programme for disability inclusion is perfect or complete. Persons with disabilities must remain central in shaping every stage of policy and programme formulation. They are experts in their own
lived experiences. As the popular slogan says, “nothing about us without us”. The concerns articulated by the writer in the December 5 letter echo realities that are being addressed. However, critique is most effective when it acknowledges the full scope of what is being attempted and a true picture of the realities. The President’s speech outlining the disability inclusion plan makes it clear that Guyana’s disability inclusion agenda is transitioning from vision to implementation, and that the cash grant is merely one element of a much larger transformation of the disability landscape.
If we are to advance the rights, dignity, independence, and economic participation of persons with disabilities, then national discourse must reflect the full and accurate picture of the reality. The goal should not be to applaud or condemn a single measure in isolation but to evaluate the system being constructed. As an advocate I am pleased with the path we are travelling as a country in facilitating disability inclusion and I am optimistic that Guyana will become truly accessible for all persons with disabilities.
Sincerely, Ganesh Singh Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD)
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2025
Page Foundation
Polygons
Two polygons are congruent if their shapes and sizes are the same. The sides and the angles in one polygon must exactly match the sides and the angles in the other. Congruent polygons do not have to face in the same direction. The best way to find out if two polygons are congruent is to measure the sides and the angles in both.
Exercises: Identify the congruent polygons
are dry stick four together in a triangular shape with the two arms on top.
Step 3: For the face draw and cut out a circle and then use a pen to draw the features. For the hair, cut short strips of wool and stick it onto the face. Cut off a small piece of silver tinsel pipe cleaner and sick it to the top of the head.
Step 4: Next, stick the face to the angel’s body.
Step 5: For the wings, cut out two triangular shapes from the paper craft doilies and stick them onto the back of the angel.
Step 6: To finish, cut a length of ribbon, tie a knot and stick it to the back of the angel, to hang the ornament. (Adapted from bakerross.co.uk)
By Clement Clarke moore
Old Santeclaus with much delight His reindeer drives this frosty night, O’er chimney-tops, and tracks of snow, To bring his yearly gifts to you.
The steady friend of virtuous youth, The friend of duty, and of truth, Each Christmas eve he joys to come Where love and peace have made their home.
Through many houses he has been, And various beds and stockings seen; Some, white as snow, and neatly mended, Others, that seemed for pigs intended.
Where e’er I found good girls or boys, That hated quarrels, strife and noise, I left an apple, or a tart, Or wooden gun, or painted cart.
To some I gave a pretty doll, To some a peg-top, or a ball; No crackers, cannons, squibs, or rockets, To blow their eyes up, or their pockets. No drums to stun their Mother’s ear, Nor swords to make their sisters fear; But pretty books to store their mind With knowledge of each various kind.
But where I found the children naughty, In manners rude, in temper haughty, Thankless to parents, liars, swearers, Boxers, or cheats, or base tale-bearers,
I left a long, black, birchen rod, Such as the dread command of God Directs a Parent’s hand to use When virtue’s path his sons refuse.
US extradition request Mohameds’ challenge to Guyana’s extradition law “frivolous, vexatious” – Prosecutor
The extradition proceedings involving United States (US)indicted businessmen, Nazar Mohamed and Azruddin Mohamed, returned to the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Monday, before Magistrate Judy Latchman. In court, the father and son duo’s legal team pressed ahead with a constitutional challenge to the recent amendments to the Fugitive Offenders Act. The defence argued that the legislative changes are unconstitutional, contending that they infringe upon the Mohameds’ right to liberty and undermine their ability to access a fair and impartial legal process. Their attorneys have formally asked that the constitutional issues be transferred to the High Court for a definitive ruling. Magistrate Latchman has set Wednesday, December 10, for delivering her decision. However, according to Prosecutor Terrence Williams, the constitutional challenge mounted by the father-son duo against recent amendments to Guyana’s extradition laws is “frivolous and vexatious”. “The main argument was that the constitutional issues do not arise for the consideration of the law of Magistrate. The application is frivolous and vexatious because, first of all, there are no real constitutional issues and they certainly do not arise for consideration at this time. First, because many of these rights which they rely on expressly exclude extradition from consideration and also because the Magistrate has a certain duty to perform and the duty that she has to perform does not include the considerations that the defendants have raised,” Williams said. The argument for the
Mohameds is the legality of Guyana’s 2009 amendments to the Fugitive Offenders Act. “Well, after Parliament passed the amendment to reaffirm the decision of the Court of Appeal in King and Justice Barlow’s decision in Marvin Williams is the first and, as far as we know, on the pronouncement on the amendment. It itself reaffirmed what the Court of Appeal had previously said in King. So it was important for us to put that before the Court. Well, it is that the defendants raised an issue which would not normally have arisen in an extradition proceeding before the Magistrate. In fact, they raised it to the press and not to the court. And so, we heard about it and so we were able to provide a diplomatic note which dealt with that issue,” the prosecutor said.
Diplomatic note/ reextradited to a third country
The diplomatic note issue referred to by the prosecutor was later explained by Attorney General (AG) and Legal Affairs Minister, Anil Nandlall. In an interview broadcasted by Newsroom on Monday, Nandlall explained that the defence’s claims regarding constitutional breaches and an allegedly “deficient” extradition treaty with the US have already been conclusively rejected by Guyana’s courts.
“The very deficiencies that they are saying that our treaty has, those two Court of Appeal rulings examined the very argument at the very contentions and ruled that the treaty has no such deficiencies. This is a 1935 treaty. The two decisions I am referring to were given over 30 years ago. And we have been extraditing people to the US over the last 30
years on a regular basis, using the same treaty, because we have two decisions of the Court saying that the treaty is not deficient as they are now alleging. The point I am making is that none of the arguments are new. They are well-trodden paths that we have traveled before and we have rulings coming from higher courts which rulings are binding on the Magistrate,” the AG explained.
Further, Nandlall revealed that the defence claimed the treaty lacked a safeguard preventing the Mohameds from being tried in the US for offences other than those for which they are extradited or from being re-extradited to a third country.
The AG debunked such claims, noting that the treaty already provides such safeguards, a position affirmed by the Court of Appeal. But out of caution, Guyana sought and received a written diplomatic assurance from the US. “Out of an abundance of caution and to put their fears at rest, right, and not to embark on unnecessary long litigation, we got from the US an assurance in writing that should these people be extradited, they will not be tried for offences other than that for which they have been extradited. Neither would they be extradited to a third state without the permission of the Government of Guyana because that is what they are complaining about. And in order to offer them due process, to allay their fears, and to avoid unnecessary argumentation and unnecessary litigation, though we don’t need it, the Americans have given the assurance. That removes the foundation from their complaint because that in essence is the only thing they have complained about in substance,” he added. The Mohameds remain $150,000 bail each as the case continues.
Indicted by US grand jury
The father-son duo, who are now fighting their extradition, have been indicted by a grand jury in the US District Court for the Southern District of Florida on 11 criminal charges ranging from wire fraud, mail fraud and money laundering, primarily connect-
ed to the export of gold to the US by their company, Mohamed’s Enterprises. The Mohameds are accused of conspiring to defraud the US and Guyanese Governments between 2017 and June 11, 2024. The father-son duo is accused of using a scheme to unlawfully obtain property by transmitting communications via interstate and foreign commerce in violation of US laws.
According to the US prosecutors, the goal was to enrich themselves and defraud the Government of Guyana by evading taxes and royalties on gold exports. They allegedly reused Guyana customs declarations and official seals on multiple shipments to make it appear that taxes and royalties had been paid when they had not. The indictment stated that Mohamed’s Enterprise would pay taxes and receive official Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Guyana Gold Board (GGB) seals for one shipment, then reuse those same seals and documents on subsequent, untaxed shipments. The indictment further alleges that the Mohameds arranged for empty wooden boxes bearing intact GRA and GGB seals to be shipped from gold buyers in Dubai to Miami and then sent to Guyana. These boxes were then used to export gold while falsely appearing to have cleared customs and tax obligations. US authorities allege the scheme resulted in more than US$50 million in lost taxes and royalties to the Government of
Guyana. Additional indictments detail similar conduct involving shipments of gold, emails allegedly from Nazar Mohamed requesting the sealed boxes from Miami, and exports of over 165-kilograms (kg) of gold per shipment destined for Dubai. Charges six to nine focus on mail fraud, referencing the shipment of sealed empty boxes from Dubai to Miami, while charge 10 addresses money laundering, which alleges that the Mohameds knowingly transferred funds within the US with the intent to promote unlawful activity. The other charge has to do with Azruddin Mohamed purchasing and importing a Lamborghini sports car to Guyana in 2020. The indictment alleges he directed someone to purchase the car for US$680,000, then falsify the invoice to state a value of US$75,300 to understate import taxes. The US Government is seeking forfeiture of certain assets connected to the accused. If convicted, most charges carry a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and fines of up to US$250,000, while the money laundering charge carries a fine of
US$500,000 or the value of the laundered property. The indictment follows sanctions imposed over a year ago by the US Government on the Mohameds, their businesses and Guyanese Government Permanent Secretary (PS) Mae Thomas in relation to the same allegations. The sanctions are related to the evasion of taxes on gold exports, with the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) noting that between 2019 and 2023, Mohamed’s Enterprise omitted more than 10,000kg of gold from import and export declarations and avoided paying more than US$50 million in duty taxes to the Government of Guyana. Since the imposition of the sanctions, the Guyana Government had suspended the licences of the Mohameds’ various businesses, highlighting that the US-sanctioned businessman is a risk and a threat to Guyana’s financial stability, sovereignty and diplomacy. Subsequently, several Government entities and local businesses, including commercial banks, have cut ties with the Mohameds.
US-indicted father and son Nazar Mohamed and Azruddin Mohamed
Prosecutor Terrence Williams speaking with media operatives outside Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts
Suspect in break-in, theft at Home Affairs Ministry arrested
Hours after someone broke into the Home Affairs Ministry and escaped with a number of valuable items, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) said it has apprehended the suspect. On Monday, the Ministry confirmed that at approximately 04:00h, an individual unlawfully entered its building on Brickdam, Georgetown.
The Ministry said security personnel detected the intruder via CCTV cameras and immediately raised an alarm. The Ministry said a security officer pursued
Gold miner slapped with possession of ammo charge
Agold miner of Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo (EBE), who was arrested on Saturday, has been charged in connection with a possession of ammunition without licence offence.
Deoraj Jaggernauth appeared in court on Monday before Tariq Mohamed at the Bartica Magistrates’ Court where the charge of Possession of Ammunition without Licence, Contrary to Section 62(2)(a) of the Firearm Act Chapter 16:05 was read to him.
The 35-year-old man denied the offence and was released on $100,000 bail. The case will continue on January 26, 2026.
the individual but was unsuccessful in apprehending him. Nevertheless, it said the Police Force was promptly notified and an investigation was launched without delay. In a subsequent statement from the GPF, it noted that several electronic devices, including laptop computers, electronic tablets and digital cameras along with a quantity of personal property belonging to a staff member were reported stolen from the building. Police said its investigations revealed that sections of the Ministry’s middle and lower flats were ransacked and that an eastern-side wash-
room window on the lower flat was found open, indicating the point through which entry was believed to have been gained. Police further noted that CCTV footage was obtained and reviewed, leading to the subsequent arrest of a 48-year-old male, along with several items that were recovered.
In a statement several days ago in response to a report of a security breach at a Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) building, the Ministry had expressed that it “remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of security at all its agencies.”
Security guard charged for narco trafficking
A37-year-old security guard of Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara
(WBD) has been charged in connection with an alleged Possession of Narcotic for the Purpose of Trafficking offence reportedly committed on December 5.
Jason Critchlow appeared before Magistrate Tariq Mohamed at the Bartica Magistrates’ Court on Monday where the charge of possession of narcotic for the purpose of trafficking, contrary to Section 5(1)(a) (i) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act, Chapter 10:10, was read to him.
He pleaded not guilty and was granted $100,000 bail. The case was adjourned to January 26, 2026.
Protecting…
…the home
If you thought – like Ralph Gonsalves over in St Vincent who was soon booted out of office!! – that PM Kamla over in T&T was taking a hard line on defending her country by heartily supporting Pres Trump’s decision to summarily blow narco-boats out of the water, then you gotta look at what she just did domestically!! She signed into law “The Home Invasion (Self-Defence and Defence of Property) Bill, 2025”. This basically gives homeowners the right to quote – and follow – Dirty Harry’s “make my day” maxim: blow away anyone who enters your property to harm you!! Squinting isn’t mandatory while pulling the trigger – like Dirty Harry – but couldn’t hurt, eh??!!
More mundanely – as legal drafters are prone to be! – the stated rationale states it’s “An Act to establish the offence of home invasion and, in that context, to provide that a person has no duty to retreat when acting in selfdefence or defence of his property; to provide that a person may use defensive force, including deadly force, to protect himself, his property or another person in his dwelling house; and to provide for related matters.”
Now, Dear Reader, you might be scratching your noggin and muttering, “Wasn’t my home my castle and I always had the right to defend it and whoever and whatever is in it – by any means necessary??” Well, in the Common Law that all of us in the British Empire inherited, things might’ve started out as such. But in the years since, that position was gradually whittled away as all sorts of caveats were added. Basically to give rights to the home invader stemming from “the right to life” inherent to everybody!!
So, believe it or not, there arose three elements to justify deadly force in self-defence of a home. First, was the principle of “proportionality”!! The homeowner gotta be confronted with deadly force before using deadly force. Imagine that!! So the question was how’d you decide whether that piece of wood the burglar was holding in his hand could actually kill you??!!
And this gave rise to the requirement of “necessity: – “To use deadly force to defend against deadly force, must be necessary to prevent death or great bodily injury.” The danger must be imminent or immediate!! So, you had to wait to the moment before the blow was fired?? And then came the third and most ludicrous – the need for “reasonable belief”!! Homeowner “must reasonably believe deadly force is necessary to prevent the use of deadly force on himself”!! Clearly this component includes both a subjective and objective requirement – and the “reasonable man” test!! Now all of that is gone in T&T!! Shouldn’t we also enact a plain and simple “stand your ground act”??
…the US NSS
Against the background of some of our local Guyana bashers taking the Government to task for questioning the EU worthies who tasked it for “incumbency advantage” in the last elections comes Pres Trump taking on the ENTIRE EU for their wishy-washiness in his just-announced National Security Strategy (NSS)!! It declares that Europe is not just in economic decline, but faced with the prospect of “civilisational erasure, the EU and other transnational bodies” are undermining “political liberty and sovereignty”!! Europe is riddled with “censorship of free speech and suppression of political opposition.” It is led by “unstable minority governments, many of which trample on basic principles of democracy to suppress opposition.” Most fundamentally, Europe is being turned into a zone of “strife” by migration policies, so that it will be “unrecognisable” in two decades. Certain NATO members will become “majority non-European” and no longer reliable allies.
But not to worry…America is willing to help them get back on track. They must just follow its lead and not talk back!!
…handout culture
Imagine even after Prezzie confirmed he’d still be issuing a cash grant to all Guyanese before Christmas – the Opposition yet went ahead with their protest to demand “their entitlement”!!
It’s like kids demanding Christmas presents BEFORE Christmas!!
Some of the items that were recovered
Charged: Deoraj Jaggernauth
Charged: Jason Critchlow
Pres Ali, Sweden’s Ambassador map out stronger partnership
resident Dr Irfaan
PAli on Monday received the Letters of Credence from the Kingdom of Sweden’s non-resident Ambassador to Guyana, Maria Velasco during a ceremony at the Office of the President on Shiv Chanderpaul Drive. After the accreditation, President Ali and Ambassador Velasco held discussions on strengthening cooperation between the two countries. The President said that, given rapid global chang-
es, Guyana and Sweden should reassess and realign their engagement to advance a strategic partnership. He identified areas for expanded bilateral cooperation, including climate change mitigation, food security, and energy security.
Linden man slapped with illegal gun, ammo charges
Aman of Redwood Crescent, Mackenzie, Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Diamond Magistrates’ Court on Friday, where he faced charges of possession of a firearm and ammunition without a licence.
Dukquan Rose, 30, was charged under Section 16(2) (a) of the Firearms Act, Chapter 16:05, relates to an alleged incident that occurred on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. Rose pleaded not guilty to the charge and was remanded to prison. The case has been adjourned to December 16. Charged:
President Ali also outlined his Government’s focus on improving the livelihoods of citizens through human resource development. Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister, Hugh Todd and the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary Sharon Roopchand Edwards, attended the ceremony.
President Dr Irfaan Ali accepting the Letters of Credence from the Kingdom of Sweden’s non-resident Ambassador to Guyana, Maria Velasco on Monday
Dukquan Rose
Indigenous Councillor condemns WIN party’s “bullyism”,
“disrespect”
against Amerindian Affairs Minister
Cof WIN’s Azruddin Mohamed and Odessa Primus as “disrespect and intimidation” directed at a female Indigenous leader. She said the incident should trou-
identified with that moment deeply,” Henry stated. She contrasted the Minister’s experience with that of Mohamed, noting that while Mohamed was born into
“Minister Browne represents the many who had to fight their way into spaces where others are simply born into privilege. While Azruddin Mohamed was born with a gold spoon in his mouth, Minister Sarah was staying in that very hostel. And while Mr Mohamed had the luxury of being chauffeured from home to school, Sarah Browne simply used a canoe” – Councillor
Tristan Henry
ouncillor for St Cuthbert’s Mission/ Pakuri Village, Tristan Henry has expressed concern over the treatment of Amerindian Affairs Minister Sarah Browne-Shadeek during an encounter with members of the opposition We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party outside the Amerindian Hostel in Georgetown on Sunday.
In a letter to the editor, Henry described the actions
ble every decent Guyanese, especially Indigenous citizens. Henry highlighted that Minister BrowneShadeek is no stranger to hard work or sacrifice, having risen quietly through the ranks from grassroots communities that often go unheard. She said her story exemplifies Indigenous resilience, making the opposition’s actions particularly painful. “The bullyism that Sarah faced is nothing new. Every Indigenous sister who has ever worked their way up from nothing would have
privilege, Minister BrowneShadeek once stayed in the hostel and relied on a canoe for transportation. Henry praised the Minister’s calmness during the incident, describing it as “quiet resilience over flagrant bullyism and intimidation.” The confrontation occurred as Minister Browne-Shadeek visited the hostel to assess the facility and discuss plans for a new Amerindian Hostel. The Minister disclosed that the design for the new facility is being finalised, land has been identified and proposals for funding have been submitted for the 2026 national budget. She has been working with the Central Housing and Planning Authority, whose engineer and architect have collaborated on the design.
Browne-Shadeek also acknowledged the need to continue supporting the existing hostel on Princes Street, Georgetown. The facility accommodates Amerindians traveling to Georgetown for various reasons, including medical treatment and provides free meals and assistance. She stated that over
1,275 persons have used the hostel this year alone.
Not activism but “bullyism”
The Minister said the opposition’s actions were not activism but “bullyism,” noting that the behaviour took place while sick persons were at the hostel. She said she would not be intimidated and emphasised that proper leadership does not involve confrontational behaviour or using Indigenous people as pawns for political agendas. WIN leader Azruddin Mohamed and his father, Nazar Mohamed are currently facing extradition proceedings at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts in relation to fraud and money laundering indictments linked to gold smuggling in the United States (US).
The indictment follows sanctions imposed over a year ago by the US Government on the Mohameds and their busi-
nesses, in relation to the evasion of taxes on gold exports, with the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) noting that between 2019 and 2023. Mohamed’s Enterprise omitted more than 10,000-kilograms (kg) of gold from import and export declarations and avoided paying more than US$50 million in duty taxes to the Government of Guyana. The other charge has to do with Azruddin Mohamed’s purchased and imported a Lamborghini sports car to Guyana in 2020. The indictment alleges he directed someone to purchase the car for US$680,000, then falsify the invoice to state a value of US$75,300 to understate import taxes. If convicted, most charges carry a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and fines of up to US$250,000 while the money laundering charge carries a fine of US$500,000 or the value of the laundered property.
Woman charged with manslaughter after partner’s death
Aspecial constable of Recht-Door-Zee Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara (WBD), appeared before Magistrate Rhondel Weever at the Wales Magistrate’s Court on a manslaughter charge. Rayana Simpson, 27, is accused of unlawfully killing her partner, Peter Michael Rawlins on December 3.
During Monday’s hearing, Simpson was not required to enter a plea. She was granted bail of $500,000 with the condition that she report to the Leonora Police Station on the 15 of every month. The case has been ad-
journed to January 13, 2026. According to a report published by Guyana Times on December 5, 2025, the incident occurred on December 5 when Rawlins, 42, of Tucville, Georgetown, was fatally stabbed during an argument at Simpson’s home. The argument reportedly escalated, resulting in Simpson inflicting a stab wound to Rawlins’s upper right leg.
Rawlins was transported to the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH) where he was pronounced dead while receiving medical attention. Simpson was arrested at the scene.
Charged: Rayana Simpson
Amerindian Affairs Minister Sarah Browne-Shadeek being confronted by WIN Leader Azruddin Mohamed outside the Amerindian Hostel on Sunday
WIN’s Member of Parliament, Odessa Primus outside of the Amerindian Hostel on Sunday
GPL worker dies in motorcycle crash
AFyrish family is demanding answers following the death of 28-year-old Travis Joseph, who succumbed to injuries on Sunday afternoon after a motorcycle accident along the Fyrish Access Road, Corentyne, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne). According to a police release, the incident occurred around 16:10h. Joseph, who was riding a bike with an unknown registration number, was reportedly proceeding north along the western side of the roadway at a fast rate of speed and was not wearing a safety helmet when he lost control and fell.
The police release added that the motorcycle sled into the path of motorcar, PWW 3333, driven by a 63-yearold of Stanleytown, New Amsterdam, which was proceeding in the opposite
on bail while the motorcar was lodged at the station. However, Joseph’s brother, Troy Joseph, disputes the version initially provided to the family. Speaking to reporters in Berbice, Troy recalled receiving confusing calls while returning home from work in Georgetown.
“People kept calling me asking if I know what going on. One cousin say Travis fall off a bike, but Travis don’t ride fast… something wasn’t adding up,” he recounted. He said rushed to the scene and later to the
direction. Public-spirited residents rushed him to the Port Mourant Hospital and he was later transferred to the New Amsterdam Hospital, where he died while receiving treatment.
A breathalyser test was conducted on the driver recorded no alcohol and he was subsequently released
hospital, where his brother had already been pronounced dead. He said that he was able to see the body.
“When I go back to the spot, I find two of my brother’s teeth on the road… All his chest flat… that ain’t come from just a fall,” he said.
Troy claimed that based
on impressions on the ground and damage found under a vehicle suspected to be involved, he believes Travis was dragged or ran over.
“The police telling me the bike hit the car… but the bike alone can’t do … my brother chest flat, his teeth out… that ain’t no lil slide.”
He said the family is now trying to obtain surveillance footage from nearby homes.
“We trying to get footage. Somebody promise to send it. We need justice for me brother.” Troy described Travis as a quiet, respected worker employed at Guyana Power and Light (GPL) and being well-
known in the community for his calm nature and helpfulness. “Everybody talk good about him… he’s not a bad person, very quiet, humble man.” The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has confirmed that the investigation is ongoing as they await a post-mortem examination and continue to gather statements.
Corentyne man found guilty on 2 rape charges
…“I have waited 7 years for this; I finally get justice” – victim’s mother
A12-member jury on Monday returned a guilty verdict against 29-year-old Sanjay Peters of Corentyne, Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) who was on trial for the rape of a five-year-old boy, offences committed eight years ago.
Peters, who was previously released into his mother’s custody during the trial, was remanded to prison following the verdict. He will return to court on January 6, 2026, when Justice Sandil Kissoon is expected to hand down his sentence.
The convict was found guilty on both indictments, which alleged that between July 1 and August 5, 2018,
Found
he raped a boy he knew to be a family member. The charges stated that he committed the acts know-
ing the child was under 15 years old. The case, prosecuted by State Counsel Cicela Corbin, saw seven witnesses testifying, as previously indicated by the court. Attorney-atLaw Kevin Morgan represented Peters throughout the proceedings. Speaking with this publication moments after the verdict was announced, the victim’s mother said the decision brought long-awaited relief after years of struggle. “I have waited seven years for this; I finally get justice,” she said, noting that the journey from complaint to conviction was emotionally draining but she never gave up.
Dead: 28-year-old Travis Joseph
Troy Joseph, brother of deceased
guilty: Sanjay Peters
Copyright, investment, new venues top agenda as Govt meets entertainers, promoters
Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry on Monday hosted a major stakeholder engagement with entertainers, promoters and creatives at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), where discussions centred on issues affecting professionals in the industry including, copyright legislation, investment, performance spaces and training as Guyana prepares for the 2026 Diamond Jubilee calendar of events. According to the Ministry, the consultations are part of the wider national preparations to support President Dr Irfaan Ali’s vision for a year-long programme of cultural, creative and tourism activities. A formal annual events calendar will be launched soon, with immediate, time-sensitive events being prioritised. Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister, Susan Rodrigues told creatives that the event is part of a deliberate push to expand tourism in both Georgetown and the wider coastland, while build-
ing long-term systems to support the creative sector. During a wide-ranging question and answer segment, stakeholders raised several recurring concerns from the need for modern copyright and intellectual
cultural infrastructure and support for family-friendly events and diversified tourism offerings, among others. Rodrigues acknowledged these issues, saying they fall squarely within the Government’s broader plan
be a part of that. We can’t sit and wait for one thing to happen before we do something else. We’ve been saying this for the last five years that we can’t work in a straight line. If we work in a straight line, we would not have been able to achieve a quarter of the things that we’ve achieved in the last five years. We’re trying to build a country, building
property legislation, lack of performance spaces and cultural centres in major towns, challenges accessing sponsorship, especially with global companies entering Guyana’s economy, investment opportunities for new entertainment venues and
to develop Guyana’s orange economy. The Minister repeated a principle she said has defined Government’s approach over the past five years. “We’re in tourism and tourism happens every day, all day and we want to
all the sectors at once. “I’m here to work with you. I’m hoping that this is a signal to you, my brother, that I’m here to work not only with you, but for you. You are my stakeholders. And I said the same thing to the hotels and all of the operators
in tourism, that I’m here to help you. The Government doesn’t do tourism. This is an enormous opportunity here for us to work collaboratively, but you will be the greatest beneficiary,” the Minister told the gathering. Rodrigues also clarified how Government determines which events receive sponsorship, noting that events must also be reliable, as the Ministry incorporates them into tourism marketing, diaspora outreach and travel packages. She gave examples such as: using the annual Origins Fashion Festival, Worship Experience, Rodeo, Bartica Regatta and Easter celebrations to build targeted tourism packages marketed abroad.
Calendar of events
“The calendar of events, as I mentioned before, this is not an exhaustive calendar. We want you to know what we’re doing so that you will know how to plan.
So you will see, for example, in July of next year, there are certain events that will take place. The worship experience, the Origins Fashion Festival”. “Every month, there’ll be activities happening. I
know that you can’t tell me between now and the 31st of December everything that you’re going to do for 2026. Events will come up. That’s the nature of the industry. We’re not against that. And I want to be very clear about that. We’re not against that. We’re not against creativity. We’re not against spontaneity. We support that. And we want you to think and have as many events as possible, make as much money as possible. We support that. But what we are proposing is that when we are curating our packages, that we know of the events so that we can incorporate it and we can refer people to your event. That’s our job to create that tourism experience or a tourist experience that includes you,” she explained. Rodrigues also emphasised the need for professional training, especially as Guyana’s entertainment and tourism sectors rapidly expand. The Ministry aims to partner with training providers to strengthen skills in event management, tourism service standards, sponsorship readiness, technical production as well as hospitality and visitor experience.
GPL maintenance wrapped up, extra crews stand by to tackle faults – CEO tells Berbice
After months of recurring blackouts across Berbice and other parts of the Demerara–Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS), Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL), Kesh Nandlall, has assured the public that the company is now better positioned to deliver a more reliable supply of electricity during the upcoming Christmas season. Residents across the region have endured a series of outages in recent months, some linked to major technical faults at Kingston earlier in the year and more recently, to maintenance works, feeder burns, and even the disruption of key transmis-
sion lines. As recently as last week, Berbicians expressed frustration after a day-long shutdown caused by unexpected restoration challenges during scheduled upgrades. These incidents have amplified calls for GPL to stabilise the grid and communicate more clearly with affected communities. Against this backdrop, Nandlall said the company has now completed most of the maintenance work in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) and the wider grid, which contributed significantly to the recent interruptions.
“You should not experience much outages as a result of maintenance,” he assured. He explained that the commissioning of
GPL CEO Kesh Nandlall
a new 60 MVA transformer at the K2 substation had
caused some temporary instability but stressed that
the system is now performing more reliably. Looking ahead to the holidays, Nandlall reported that GPL expects a peak demand of about 215-megawatts (MW), while the company currently has more than 250-MW reliably available. “From a generation perspective, we are in a very, very comfortable position,” he said, adding that GPL will work very hard to ensure that it provides more reliable power for the holidays.
Extra emergency crews
However, the CEO acknowledged that emergency faults can still occur, such as a structure fire on Thursday night that forced GPL to shut down
two feeders for about two hours, but said the company is preparing aggressively to respond. Speaking with this publication, he said that extra emergency crews will be deployed across the grid throughout the holiday period. These teams will be pulled from internal staff who would normally handle maintenance. “We will assign additional resources… because we will not be doing maintenance work. We will pull those resources together and ensure that we have more available personnel for emergency response,” he explained. Nandlall said that with maintenance now out of the way and additional crews are on standby.
Local entertainers, promoters and creatives at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre
Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), Kamrul Baksh and Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues
United stance against gender-based violence
Hundreds joined Minister Vindhya Persaud and the Human Services and Social Security Ministry for Stride Against Silence and Cinema with a Cause, walking from the Kitty Roundabout, Georgetown to the Kingston Seawall Bandstand in a united stand against Gender-Based Violence. The evening featured conversations on GBV, gripping short films, and brave testimonies from survivors, creating a moment of national reflection, solidarity, and renewed commitment to ending GBV in Guyana (Human Services and Social Security Ministry photos)
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2025|
16 Days of Activism
Fake profiles, manipulated images driving surge of new forms of abuse – Minister warns
Human Services and Social Security Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud has issued a strong call for increased awareness around digital violence, noting that many Guyanese are still unsure what the term means, even as the global 16 Days of Activism campaign spotlights it this year. According to the Minister, digital violence is “very pervasive,” often occurring in everyday online interactions without people recognising it. “Digital violence is very pervasive. In fact, you might not recognise it as digital violence, but the things that happen every day—cyberstalking, harassment, bullying—these are all forms of digital violence…and that’s why I wanted to bring awareness to this. Because these things happen, but we
don’t put it all together and call it something,” she said in a video message posted on the Ministry’s social media page. She warned that with the rapid growth of artificial intelligence; new forms of online abuse are emerging. People, she said, are now using AI tools to impersonate others—an act considered identity theft under the law, by utilising their photos, creating fake profiles and publishing harmful content in their names.
Manipulated images
Even worse, Persaud explained, is the creation of manipulated images.
“Taking someone’s head and putting it on someone else’s body, putting people in situations where they never were… When they do these kinds of things, it causes ter-
Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud
rible harm. It destroys people. In fact, it affects a lot of people who are in public life.” She noted that while
social media and connectivity bring tremendous benefits in communication, education and awareness, there
is a darker side that cannot be ignored. “Just go across social media. These things are so realistic that they can fool anyone… But while connectivity is great and social media is wonderful for all the things we want, it has this darker side. And that’s why we have to bring awareness to digital violence. So as you look at me, take note of it and share it with the people around you.”
Persaud also urged parents, guardians and community members to speak with young people, who are increasingly falling victim to digital abuse, often because they share sensitive photos or videos without understanding the long-term consequences. “A lot of young people are getting caught in this digital violence trap because they take videos, they take nude photos, they share these things… They might share it with someone they trust, or they might post it somewhere. All of these things stay on the net—even after it is deleted. And that is where digital violence comes into play.” She added that gendered digital violence remains a major concern, with women being frequent targets of harassment, stalking, misinformation and image-based abuse. “A lot of these targets are women. And you use their gender and you find things to use against them on a digital platform. You keep attacking them, you keep harassing them, you keep stalking them…hacking is also part of digital violence. I’m sure at one time or another, somebody’s account was hacked.”
Karaburi Health Centre commissioned, ending long trips for basic care
The Health Ministry has officially commissioned a new health centre at Karaburi,
improving access to medical care for residents who previously had to travel as far as Kumaka, even for
basic services such as blood pressure monitoring and chronic disease management. With the new facility
now operational, residents can receive weekly chronic disease treatment directly in Karaburi. In the coming months, a permanent Medex will be stationed at the centre and seven additional Medex personnel are also expected to return to serve the region. A doctor will visit the new Karaburi Health Centre once every month to review medical records, monitor pregnancies and conduct ultrasound outreaches, reducing the need for residents to make lengthy trips to Kumaka. Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony noted the significant improvements in the region’s healthcare system. The Minister took the opportunity to emphasise the need for more trained personnel as healthcare capacity expands across the region.
“We need more people to get training because as we expand healthcare opportunities in the region, we want people from this
region to get those benefits. Find young people with five subjects—we will find the training programmes and put them in this facility,” he encouraged. He also assured residents that the Ministry is committed to maintaining consistent medical support in Karaburi.
“We have assigned one of your own Medex to come back here to work at least once a week, and we have the doctor who will be here once a month to reinforce the steps we are making,” the Minister explained. He urged the community to take good care of the new facility, especially during the Christmas season. “This season is a time of goodwill, a time of giving. Even though there is no rest for the health service, we want to make sure people benefit from good things. We want you to take care of this beautiful facility so we can continue our service,” he said. He recalled how limited services once were highlighting the
scores of other advancements made in the Region over the weekend. “I remember not so long ago [In this Region] —you weren’t able to get surgeries done. [Just recently] We built an operating theatre, and now we are adding digital X-ray and we just commissioned a waiting home,” Anthony said. This past weekend, a newly completed $47 million, 12-bed Maternal Waiting Home was commissioned. Located within the compound of the Kumaka District Hospital in the Moruca Sub-District, Region One (BarimaWaini), this facility is purpose-built to provide expectant mothers from remote communities with a safe and comfortable environment to stay both before and after delivery.
Diagnostic services in Region One (BarimaWaini) have been significantly enhanced with the commissioning of a stateof-the-art $60 million GE digital X-ray system at the Kumaka District Hospital.
The ceremonial ribbon cutting marked the official opening of the Karaburi Health Centre
The Karaburi Health Centre
ERC hosts religious exchange to promote interfaith understanding among students
The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) on Monday conducted a religious exchange exercise aimed at promoting interfaith understanding, cultural awareness, and mutual respect among students. The initiative involved 20 students from the newly launched Harmony Club at Stella Maris Primary School. During the guided tour, participants visited three places of worship in Georgetown: the Queenstown Masjid,
the Church of the Nazarene on Laluni Street, and the Rama Krishna Dharmic Sabha Mandir in Kitty. The exercise provided students with the opportunity to observe and engage with the practices of Guyana’s major religions. Through guided discussions and direct interaction, the activity aimed to enhance students’ appreciation of different faiths while reinforcing principles of tolerance, respect, and peaceful coexistence.
ERC Chairman Shaikh Moeenul Hack, Reverend Rodwell Porter and Pandit Krishn Sharma, representing the Islamic, Christian, and Hindu religious communities on the Commission, were present for the activity. Their participation underscored the Commission’s commitment to interfaith dialogue. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the ERC, Gomin Camacho, along with secretariat staff and Stella Maris Primary teachers, also attended.
At each location, religious leaders explained the significance of their places of worship and highlighted core values shared across
religions, including peace, compassion, and tolerance.
The exchange exercise is part of the ERC’s broader educational outreach and
Harmony Club programme, which seeks to promote inclusivity, understanding and respect across cultural and religious lines.
Students from Stella Maris Primary School’s Harmony Club take part in a religious exchange exercise in Georgetown, visiting the Queenstown Masjid, Church of the Nazarene, and Rama Krishna Dharmic Sabha Mandir to foster interfaith understanding, cultural awareness, and mutual respect
Melinda Singh welcomes miracle baby after 17 years of infertility, life-threatening accident
In the realm of medical triumphs, few stories resonate as profoundly as that of Melinda Singh—an extraordinary journey marked by hope, resilience and the power of multidisciplinary care at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). After 17 long years of secondary infertility, defined as the inability to conceive again after one or more successful pregnancies, the dream of having another child was finally within reach. Under the expert guidance of Dr Rafi Rozan, a specialist in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, Melinda embarked on a complex journey towards conception, one that would ultimately lead her to celebrate a pregnancy filled with joy and unexpected challenges.
Singh arrived at GPHC with her spouse, fuelled by a relentless desire to have a baby boy. A series of strate-
gic therapeutic management plans culminated in a successful artificial insemination. For Melinda, the news of her pregnancy was met with tears of joy, a testament to the emotional rollercoaster she had endured. However, this joy was soon overshadowed by unforeseen circumstances. During her first trimester, catastrophe struck in the form of a major motor vehicle accident, leaving her with multiple serious life-threatening injuries, including significant trauma to her hip and a complete fracture of her femur. The road ahead was fraught with complications, requiring surgeries and extensive medical interventions.
Yet, amidst these trials, Dr Rozan and his dedicated team remained steadfast. Through a shared decision-making process, they chose to continue the pregnancy despite the sig-
nificant risks. The decision underscored a commitment to prioritising the health of both mother and child, even in the face of adversity. Recovering from polytrauma was a daunting challenge. Bedridden and unable to ambulate, Melinda required assistance with even the simplest daily activities. Yet, her determination and courage shone through, propelling her toward recovery. Throughout her high-risk pregnancy, the specialised team at GPHC, conducted rigorous antenatal visits to monitor and address any emerging challenges. Their collaborative approach included experts from Obstetrics, Orthopaedics, Radiology and Nursing, ensuring comprehensive care that was crucial for the health of both mother and baby.
As the weeks turned into months, anticipation built toward what would become
Guyana leads push to break...
“Concrete and deliberate step”
Grenadian Prime Minister (PM) Dickon Mitchell, who travelled to Guyana for the ceremony, hailed the opening of the Consulate as a “concrete and deliberate step” toward strengthening Caribbean integration. PM Mitchell said he shares President Ali’s commitment to strengthening food security across the Caribbean.
“I wanted to make sure that I was here in person to convey our appreciation for the rock-solid support that we received from President Ali and the Government and people of Guyana. But in order to withstand those challenges, it means we must be more robust and more deliberate in our interaction, in our bilateral relations, in our regional relations. And as the foreign Minister says, we have consulates and embassies all over the world, oftentimes with countries that have little in common with us, that don't come to our as-
sistance, don't come to our aid, that doesn't have the partnership that we need, and we ignore very badly. And so, I'm indeed honoured that we are taking far more concrete and deliberate steps to ensure that we foster closer diplomatic, political, and economic ties that we all know,” the Grenadian prime Minister said. He called for enhanced collaboration in the area of climate security, referencing Jamaica’s recent catastrophic losses during Hurricane Melissa. He also spoke emotionally about the support Guyana provided after Grenada was devastated by Hurricane Beryl in 2024. “In more recent times, the visionary and transformative leadership of Dr Ali has not just focused on Guyana but on the wider CARICOM region and Grenada, as a close neighbour, has benefited immensely from this. In some of our most difficult times, last year when we were ravaged by a hurricane Beryl, it was
Guyana who led the way in coming to aid, coming to assistance, in supporting our people. And for this, we will be forever grateful”. “In order to withstand those challenges, it means we must be more robust and more deliberate in our interaction, in our bilateral relations, in our regional relations. And as the foreign Minister says, we have consulates and embassies all over the world, oftentimes with countries that have little in common with us, that don't come to our assistance, don't come to our aid, that doesn't have the partnership that we need, and we ignore very badly. And so, I'm indeed honoured that we are taking far more concrete and deliberate steps to ensure that we foster closer diplomatic, political and economic ties that we all know,” he added.
Grenada has appointed local businessman Dr Komal Singh as the Honorary Consul in Guyana.
a moment of profound significance. Dr Rozan was determined to witness a normal vaginal delivery at term. And on that day, the team of skilled midwives, obstetricians and paediatric specialists came together to make this dream a reality.
The culmination of this extraordinary journey arrived, and Melinda gave birth to a
healthy baby boy, who cried out with life and vigour. With a normal weight, excellent Apgar scores, and no complications for either mother or child, the delivery marked a triumphant finish to a harrowing saga. Walking out of GPHC with her Christmas baby in her arms last Friday, December 5th, Melinda was a vivid reminder of how far she
had come, from the depths of infertility and trauma to the heights of motherhood. This story is more than just a medical case; it exemplifies the remarkable collaboration across disciplines and the resilience of a mother. (Feature written and shared by the Public Relations Department of the Georgetown Public Hospital)
Man found guilty of killing mother
…Court hears he left her body on the floor, went to work
ANumber 3 Village, West Coast Berbice (WCB), Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) man was on Thursday found guilty of murdering his 64-yearold mother in what prosecutors described as a shocking display of callousness and disregard for human life. A 12-member jury at the Berbice Assizes returned a unanimous verdict against Deonarine “Dinesh” Dookhoo, who brutally killed his mother, Teshwattie “Babo” Jaglall, sometime between June 30 and July 1, 2021. Justice Sandil Kissoon has set January 6, 2026, for sentencing. According to the evidence presented in court, Dookhoo attacked his mother inside their Number 3 Village home, inflicting multiple wounds to her head, face, wrists and upper body. A cutlass later recovered behind the house was believed to have been the murder weapon.
However, what stunned the courtroom was the sequence of events that followed. Prosecutors detailed how Dookhoo left his mother’s bloody and motionless body on the floor, then calmly picked himself up and went to work his night shift as a security guard, leaving his two young children in the house. He returned home the following morning, walking into the residence “as if nothing had happened,” even greeting relatives and neighbours who had already discovered the body. One of the prosecution’s key witnesses, a six-year-old child who lived in the home, recounted seeing the assault before Dookhoo left the house with the cutlass in hand.
Investigators testified that the accused initially claimed that three intruders had broken into the home and killed his mother. However, police quickly dismissed this account
as fabricated after finding no evidence of a breakin and no signs to support his story. The chilling details, coupled with forensic evidence and witness testimony, convinced the jury that Dookhoo’s actions were deliberate and that he attempted to conceal the crime by pretending ignorance of his mother’s death. Throughout the trial, the victim’s relatives described Jaglall as a loving, hardworking woman who raised her children and grandchildren with care. Her family members, some of whom were in court for the verdict, said the conviction brought a measure of closure, though the circumstances of her death remain deeply painful.
Dookhoo has been remanded as the court has ordered a probation report on him. That report will be presented to the court on January 6, when he will be sentenced.
Melinda Singh sustained multiple serious injuries, including a fractured femur and hip trauma, following a major motor vehicle accident during her pregnancy
Dr Rafi Rozan, a Specialist in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility consultant, with Melinda Singh and staff of the GPHC
International Day of Persons with Disabilities
New EU embassy to be fully accessible to persons living with disabilities – Ambassador
As the world marked the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), the European Union (EU) Delegation to Guyana reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity, announcing plans to open a new, fully accessible embassy in Georgetown in March 2026. The announcement came during the Delegation’s first-ever 5K/1.5K ‘Run Walk Roll’ on Sunday, a collaboration with STRIDE592 in support of the Blind Cricketers Association and to spotlight the rights and daily challenges of persons living with disabilities. At the sidelines of the event, EU Ambassador to Guyana Luca Pierantoni spoke directly to the need for urban planning and public infrastructure that includes all
citizens, especially those living with disabilities.
He explained that the European Embassy will lead from the front, ensuring that its building and programmes align with principles championed globally under frameworks such as the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which calls on States to ensure that public buildings, transport, information and communication technologies (ICT) and services are accessible to all.
“There is a lot of building and construction going on in Georgetown. We have to make sure that the new buildings are going to be fully accessible. Ourself in the EU, we will do our little contribution. At the moment our embassy here is not accessible, but in March
we are going to open a new embassy. It’s going to be fully accessible. And it’s a little contribution to try to make sure that Georgetown in the future is Georgetown for everybody. It is a very important thing and this should be integrated in all our policies. Whatever we do, whatever policy we are implementing, there should be always an eye, always the perspective of people with disabilities integrated,” EU Ambassador said. The new embassy’s accessibility commitment arrives at a key moment for disability inclusion in Guyana. Earlier this year, the National Commission on Disability (NCD), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, launched a 2025–2029 Strategic Plan for Disability Inclusion — a blueprint
for improving physical access, social protection, and public services for persons with disabilities nationwide. Public buildings and facilities across Georgetown will soon face stricter scrutiny under a renewed audit regime intended to ensure compliance with accessibility standards previously outlined by the Government. Ambassador Pierantoni used the walk event to call on all stakeholders — Government, developers, civil society and ordinary citizens to integrate disability perspectives in future policy and construction projects. “People with disabilities make 10 per cent of the population, but unfortunately, they don’t receive enough attention. The problem is also because there are different kinds of dis-
abilities, so it is very difficult to implement just one policy in favour of them. One has to really try to follow a personalised approach. But this is really a battle, a fight for civilisation, for the very values of human rights that should fund our society. So, we are together in this. Guyana, the EU, we can work together on this, and this is the spirit with which we are here today,” Pierantoni added. Meanwhile, the run, co-organised with local community group STRIDE592, brought together people of all abilities, highlighting the need for increased access to community programmes, safe spaces, and economic opportunities. For STRIDE592 founder Onika Jervis the collaboration was meaningful. Jervis praised
the collaboration, saying, “It was just excellent working with the European Union. So, STRIDE592 and we are here mobilising people—it’s walking, running, and doing yoga, simple ways to take care of our bodies and mental health.” He added, “We call it a happiness project, bringing joy as hundreds of people give themselves the gift of 30 minutes a day to move together in community walkers, joggers, women, children, all levels benefiting their hearts, minds, and bodies.” The IDPD is observed annually on December 3rd to promote rights, inclusion, and well-being for people with disabilities, fostering awareness about disability issues and advocating for accessible, inclusive societies.
Mahindra Persaud conferred with honorary doctorate by UG
The University of Guyana (UG) has conferred a Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa) on Mahindra Persaud, Executive Chairman of the Nand Persaud Group of Companies, recognising his transformative impact on agro-industry, rural development and philanthropy in Guyana. The honour was bestowed during a brief ceremony in which the University praised Persaud as a distinguished business leader and innovator whose work has shaped modern agriculture and strengthened national food security. In the official citation, UG highlighted Persaud’s strong belief in teamwork and his lifelong commitment to community upliftment.
The institution described him as a quiet, gracious and family-centred leader whose entrepreneurial acumen has positioned him among the most respected figures in Guyana’s agricultural sec -
tor. The University lauded his pioneering role in advancing rice production, milling and export-modernising systems, expanding markets throughout the Caribbean and Latin America (LAC) and improving the livelihoods of small and medium-scale farmers through fair pricing, technical support and capacity-building.
Under his vision, the Nand Persaud Group evolved from a modest family mill into one of the country’s premier agro-industrial enterprises, with operations spanning parboiled and white rice production, agro-processing, livestock, renewable energy, and value-added manufacturing. The University acknowledged his extensive philanthropic work, particularly in education, youth development and community advancement in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).
His support ranges from student bursa -
ries and rural school initiatives to agricultural research partnerships and humanitarian assistance. Notably, Persaud spearheaded the company’s $40 million donation towards establishing a state-ofthe-art soil-testing laboratory at the University of Guyana Berbice Campus (UGBC), an investment UG described as a cornerstone for agricultural innovation and climate-smart development. The citation also referenced the long-standing contributions of the Nand Persaud Foundation, which has institutionalised the company’s charitable work and broadened its social impact nationwide. Under Persaud’s leadership, the group has earned several major honours, including the Caribbean Export “Green Exporter of the Year” Award, the EU/ Caribbean Export Special Award for Excellence in Service Exports, and the Guyana National Bureau
of Standards “Made in Guyana” Certification. UG noted that these achievements reflect a business model built not only on profit, but on sustainable development, environmental consciousness and national service, values aligned with the University’s own mission of innovation, inclusivity and excellence. Persaud is widely regarded as one of the most influential agro-industrial leaders in Guyana. Under his direction, the family’s small one-tonne mill has grown into a major regional conglomerate known for its Karibee and Crown brands, modern milling technologies, green energy investments, and unwavering support for Berbice farmers. The Group’s awards and certifications, combined with Persaud’s recently conferred honorary doctorate, capture decades of leadership dedicated to strengthening Guyana’s agricultural base.
Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana Professor Paloma Mohamed-Martin, conferring the doctorate on Mahindra Persaud
EU - Ambassador to Guyana, Luca Pierantoni alongside STRIDE592 founder Onika Jervis and team
Cuba denies contacts with US over Venezuela’s future
Cuba denied it had reached out to the United States about what the region would look like without President Nicolás Maduro leading Venezuela, calling the media report “absurd and false”.
Cuban Vice Foreign Minister Josefina Vidal told the Associated Press on Monday that those alleged discussions, first reported by Reuters on Friday based on two sources who declined to be identified, did not take place.
“Cuba rejects as absurd and false the press reports that claim ... alleged contacts between Cuban officials and the United States Government to address internal matters that are solely the responsibility of the Venezuelan Government.”
Cuba did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for further comment.
The Trump Administration has launched an offensive on alleged drug-trafficking boats elsewhere in the Caribbean and Pacific in recent months, killing dozens through targeted missile strikes while accusing Venezuela’s Maduro, a key Cuba ally, of profiting from the trade.
Cuba has criticised those
attacks and accuses the US of seeking a violent overthrow of the Venezuelan Government amid the dramatic escalation of US firepower in the Latin American region.
A US State Department spokesperson accused Cuba and Venezuela of destabilising the entire hemisphere.
“The Trump administration remains committed to ensuring Americans are safe from the threat of hostile regimes,” the spokesperson said, adding that included Trump’s aggressive counternarcotics campaign in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific.
The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Meanwhile, Cuba’s Supreme Popular Tribunal on Monday sentenced former Economy Minister Alejandro Gil to life in prison following a closed-door trial that found him guilty of espionage in one of the country’s highest-profile corruption cases in decades.
The court additionally found Gil guilty of a range of corruption charges in a second trial, including bribery, falsification of public documents, influence peddling, and tax evasion. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Concerns over sudden removal of EximBank CEO in Trinidad
The business community is awaiting the next move by the authorities after the weekend dismissal of the Export Import Bank (EximBank) Chief Executive Officer, Navin Dookeran.
“proud of what we accomplished during my tenure, and I wish the best for the institution and the country”.
Honduran election authorities resume vote tallies amid allegations of fraud
Election officials in Honduras have released updated voting results from the country’s November 30 election, following a three-day pause in tallies amid allegations of fraud and inconsistencies.
With 89 per cent of ballots tallied on Monday, the conservative candidate Nasry Asfura held a slim lead of 40.21 per cent over centrist contender Salvador Nasralla, who has 39.5 per cent.
Rixi Moncada, a leftist candidate with the governing LIBRE party, is trailing
in third place, with 19.28 per cent.
“After carrying out the necessary technical actions (with external auditing), the data is now being updated in the results,” Ana Paola Hall, President of the National Electoral Council (CNE), said in a social media post.
Allegations of fraud had dominated the lead-up to the election, and statements from United States President Donald Trump have likewise stirred controversy.
In the final days before
the election, Trump indicated that he may not be able to work with anyone but Asfura. That, in turn, led to an outcry from other candidates who accused the US leader of election meddling. The electoral body stated that about 14 per cent of the tally sheets showed inconsistencies and would be reviewed. Hall added in her post that candidates must “stay alert and, where applicable, file the corresponding challenges in accordance with the law”. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
Husband, wife kidnapped off Monos Island – US$2.5M ransom demanded
Former powerboat racer Derek “Stones” Tardieu has been kidnapped along with his wife, Clarabelle.
Sources said that Tardieu, 70, was at his home on Monos Island when he and his wife were snatched by kidnappers. Relatives were later contacted, requesting a large sum of money.
Sources also said that Tardieu is very ill – dealing with heart issues and a brain tumour – and is in need of constant medication.
A video filmed by kidnappers showed Tardieu with a gun to his head and a person holding a grenade.
Police said, around 09:44h, Tardieu’s relatives received a voice note from a strange number. The note
had Tardieu, saying: “They have meh and want US$2.5 million for meh release.” Later, communication was made to the victim’s son Phillip Tardieu, who went to the house and could not find Tardieu or his wife. The house had been ransacked and calls to Tardieu’s phone went unanswered. (Excerpt from Trinidad and Tobago Newsday)
Scientist urges vigilance in Jamaica as Cayman Islands suffer
bird flu outbreak
AThe dismissal of Dookeran, the son of a former Finance Minister and Central Bank Governor, Winston Dookeran, came less than three months following the appointment of a new Board of Directors by the Government and a warning from Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar that the lack of transparency in foreign exchange allocations was creating deep distortions in the economy, concentrating wealth in the hands of a few while placing small and medium enterprises under strain.
No reasons were givens for the removal of the former Commercial Relations Manager of the RBC Financial Group in Toronto, Canada, and lecturer and programme director at the UWI-Arthur Lok Jack Global School of Business. .
In a statement, Dookeran, who had been in the position for the past six and a half years, said he was
Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo said the “positive transformation” the country voted for in April was under way, with employment changes expected as organisations and staff work to achieve the “best fit for purpose”. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Trump threatens Mexico with 5% tariff increase over water dispute
President Donald Trump on Monday threatened to impose an additional five per cent tariff on Mexico if it does not immediately provide additional water to help US farmers, accusing the country of violating a treaty that outlines water sharing between the neighbours.
Under the treaty, Mexico must send 1.75 million acrefeet of water to the US from the Rio Grande through a network of interconnected dams and reservoirs every five years.
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Trump said in a social media post that Mexico “owes” the US 800,000 acrefeet of water due to violations of the treaty over the past five years.
He demanded Mexico release 200,000 acre-feet of water before December 31, and more “soon after”.
The lack of water was
hurting crops and livestock in Texas, Trump said.
“As of now, Mexico is not responding, and it is very unfair to our US Farmers who deserve this much needed water,” Trump said.
“That is why I have authorized documentation to impose a 5% Tariff on Mexico if this water isn’t released, IMMEDIATELY.”
A spokesperson for Mexico’s Economy Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
presumption by Cayman Islands authorities that the bird flu outbreak detected there just over a week ago was introduced through migratory birds has resulted in a local scientist urging vigilance in Jamaica.
Well-known biologist and assistant lecturer at the University of the West Indies’ Department of Life Sciences, Damion Whyte is calling on Jamaicans to report sightings of any birds that appear ill.
Independent Senators Monique Taitt and Dr Crystal Drakes have resigned from the Senate.
Reports indicate that Taitt, an Attorney, and Drakes, an economist, tendered their resignations following the appointment of new President Jeffrey Bostic.
The two were appointed by President Dame Sandra Mason whose term in office came to an end on November 29.
In a news report, Taitt, who was first appointed in 2018 when Dame Sandra served as Governor General and then in 2022 in her ca-
“That is what they are doing in Cayman; they have asked residents to inform the authorities if they have seen any sick birds or any birds acting weird,” Whyte said.
At the same time, Jamaica’s health authorities say they are monitoring the situation in the Cayman Islands and are preparing just in case any cases are detected locally. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)
“If you see a sick bird, put on gloves if you have to move it, and get that information to the authorities — the [Ministry of Agriculture’s] Veterinary Division, NEPA [National Environment and Planning Agency], Bird Life Jamaica, or message me @ roostersworldja [on social media],” Whyte, a wildlife and environment expert widely known for his social media posts, said in a video. He said that reporting any such sightings would allow the authorities to mobilise teams “to deal with it at that level before it spreads”.
Barbados: 2 Independent Senators resign
pacity as President, said it was the appropriate thing to do under the Constitution, referring to Section 36.
Drakes said she tendered her resignation to give the new President the opportu-
nity to make his selection. There are seven Independent senators appointed by the President, but so far there has been no indication of any further resignations. (Nation News)
Former EximBank Chief Executive Officer Navin Dookeran
Cuba’s Foreign Ministry chief for US Affairs, Josefina Vidal during a news conference in Havana, Cuba, January 9, 2018 (Reuters/ Alexandre Meneghini file photo)
Independent Senators Monique Taitt and Dr Crystal Drakes [FP]
OIL NEWS
Oil falls 2% as Iraqi oilfield production restored, Ukraine talks continue
Oil prices slipped two per cent on Monday after Iraq restored production at one of its oilfields which accounts for 0.5 per cent of world oil supply, while investors weighed ongoing talks to end the war in Ukraine.
Brent crude futures were down US$1.26, or 1.98 per cent, at US$62.49 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude was at US$58.88, down US$1.20, or two per cent.
Iraq restored production at Lukoil’s West Qurna 2 oilfield, one of the world’s largest, after a leak on an export pipeline slashed its output, two Iraqi energy officials told Reuters on Monday.
Prices had marginally pared losses earlier after sources told Reuters that Iraq had shut down production at the field, which produces around 460,000 barrels per day.
Both contracts closed Friday’s trading session at their highest levels since November 18.
“If there’s any kind of agreement reached in the near future on Ukraine, then Russian oil exports should increase and put downward pressure on oil prices,” said Tamas Varga, oil market analyst at PVM.
Markets are meanwhile pricing in an 84 per cent chance of a quarter-point cut at the Fed meeting today and Wednesday, LSEG data showed.
However, board members’ comments indicate the meeting is likely to be one of the most divisive in years, intensifying investor focus on the bank’s policy direction and internal dynamics.
Slow progress on Ukraine
Progress on Ukraine peace talks remains slow, with disputes over security guarantees for Kyiv and the status of Russianoccupied territory still unresolved even as US President Donald Trump presses for a deal.
“The various potential outcomes from Trump’s latest push to end the war could release a swing in oil supply of more than two million barrels per day,” ANZ analysts said in a client note.
Any geopolitical risk premium will be weighed against signs of a growing global surplus, with rising Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies (OPEC+) and non-OPEC supply outpacing modest demand growth, Aegis Hedging analysts said in a note on Monday.
Commonwealth Bank of Australia analyst Vivek Dhar said a ceasefire is the main downside risk to the outlook for oil prices, while sustained damage to Russia’s oil infrastructure is a significant upside risk.
New curbs on Russian exports?
In the meantime, Group of Seven countries and the European Union are in talks to replace a price cap on Russian oil exports with a full maritime services ban, people familiar with the matter told Reuters.
That would likely further curb supply from the world’s secondlargest oil producer.
The US has also ramped up pressure on OPEC member Venezuela, including strikes against boats it said were attempting to smuggle illegal drugs, and talk of military action to overthrow President Nicolás Maduro.
Elsewhere, Chinese independent refiners have stepped up purchases of sanctioned Iranian oil from onshore storage tanks using newly-issued import quotas, trade sources and analysts said, easing a supply glut.
Meanwhile, US crude oil stockpiles were expected to have fallen last week, while distillate and gasoline inventories likely rose, a preliminary Reuters poll showed on Monday. (Reuters)
Around the World
Critical moment to ramp up support for Ukraine, European allies say
European leaders have said “now is a critical moment” to ramp up support for Ukraine and put pressure on Russia to bring an end to the war.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met United Kingdom Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in London on Monday to discuss the latest version of a peace plan, drafted between Ukrainian and US officials last week.
The European leaders said more work was needed to obtain security guarantees for Ukraine, as the US puts pressure on Kyiv to agree a swift deal with Russia.
Zelenskyy, who travelled on to Brussels to meet Nato officials, said that Ukraine would share a revised plan with the US today.
Last week, Ukrainian officials spent three days with the US negotiating team in Florida pushing for changes to a US-backed peace proposal which has been widely considered favourable to Russia.
Answering questions from journalists after Monday’s meeting in
London, Zelenskyy said that the “most certainly anti-Ukrainian points have been removed” from the initial deal proposed in November.
But the Ukrainian President acknowledged that there were some outstanding concerns about ceding territory and a compromise had “not yet been found there”.
The US has proposed that Ukraine pulls its forces entirely out of eastern regions which Russia has attempt-
Trump-brokered truce under threat as ThailandCambodia fighting reignites
2025 (Royal Thai Army/ Handout via Reuters)
Thailand said its fighter jets struck Cambodia on Monday in an attempt to cripple its military capability, as a re-eruption of border hostilities derailed a fragile ceasefire brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Each side blamed the other for starting clashes that broke out during the night and intensified before dawn and spread to several locations, with one Thai soldier and four Cambodian civilians killed, according to officials.
Cambodia accused
Thailand of “inhumane and brutal acts” of aggression, stressing it had not retaliated, while Bangkok said it carried out airstrikes on military targets after its neighbour mobilised heavy weaponry and repositioned combat units.
A senior Trump administration official said, “President Trump is committed to the continued cessation of violence and expects the governments of Cambodia and Thailand to fully honour their commitments to end this conflict”.
(Excerpt from Reuters)
Paramount launches rival bid for Warner Bros Discovery
Paramount Skydance has made another offer to buy Warner Bros Discovery as it seeks to trump a rival plan from Netflix to buy the company’s studio and streaming networks.
Paramount, which is backed by the billionaire Ellison family, said it was making a direct offer to shareholders of US$30 (£22.50) per share to scoop up the whole of Warner Bros, including its traditional television networks.
It said its proposal was a “superior alternative” to Netflix’s, delivering more cash upfront to shareholders and greater prospect of approval by regulators.
President Donald Trump has said “there could be a problem” with Netflix’s purchase, pointing to competition concerns given the size of the companies.
Paramount is a smaller player than Netflix that is known for brands such as CBS News, Nickelodeon and Mission Impossible.
It started submitting offers a few months ago, eventually prompting Warner Bros, owner of HBO and classics from Looney Tunes to Harry Potter, to formally open a bidding process.
Wall Street analysts have long said they believe a Paramount-Warner Bros combination makes sense, because it would give the company the scale to compete against rivals such as Netflix and Disney.
Paramount was also seen as a strong suit-
or because the relationship between Trump and the Ellison family, including tech billionaire and Republican megadonor Larry Ellison, was expected to help ease the approval process.
But Warner Bros declared Netflix the winner of the auction on Friday, announcing a deal that valued its studio and streaming networks, including HBO, at about US$83 billion, including its debt. (Excerpt from BBC News)
ed to take by force, but has been unable to capture in full. In return, the US says Russia would withdraw elsewhere and there would be a cessation of fighting.
But this is an unpalatable option for Zelensky, who refuses to reward Moscow for its aggression and who has repeatedly warned that Russia would use any foothold in the eastern regions to launch future assaults on Ukraine. (Excerpt from BBC News)
Israeli military says it struck Hezbollah sites in southern Lebanon
The Israeli military said today that it struck infrastructure belonging to Hezbollah in several areas in southern Lebanon, including what it described as a training compound used by the armed group’s Radwan forces.
Military structures and a launch site belonging to Hezbollah were also hit in the attacks, the military added in a statement.
The strikes come less than a week after Israel and Lebanon both sent civilian envoys to a military committee monitoring their
ceasefire, a step towards a months-old US demand that the two countries broaden talks in line with President Donald Trump’s Middle East peace agenda. Israel and Lebanon agreed to a US-brokered ceasefire in 2024 that ended more than a year of fighting between Israel and Hezbollah. Since then, they have traded accusations over violations.
Lebanon’s state news agency, NNA, reported that Israeli warplanes carried out a series of airstrikes targeting several places in the south. (Reuters)
Powerful 7.5-magnitude earthquake strikes Japan’s northeast
Apowerful 7.5-magnitude earthquake shook north-eastern Japan late on Monday, prompting orders for about 90,000 residents to evacuate and tsunami warnings that hours later were downgraded to advisories.
The Japan Meteorological Agency initially said a tsunami as high as 3 metres (10 feet) could hit Japan’s northeastern coast after the earthquake struck off the coast at 23:15h (1415 GMT).
Tsunami warnings were issued for the prefectures of Hokkaido, Aomori and Iwate, and tsunamis from 20 to 70 cm (7 to 27 inches) high were observed at several ports, JMA said.
In the early hours of to-
day the JMA downgraded the warnings to advisories, meaning it now sees lower estimated wave heights and less risk of inundation.
The epicentre of the quake was 80 kilometres (50 miles) off the coast of Aomori prefecture, at a depth of 54 km, the agency added.
On Japan’s 1-7 scale of seismic intensity, the tremor registered as an “upper 6” in Hachinohe city, Aomori prefecture –a quake strong enough to make it impossible to keep standing or move without crawling. In such tremors, most heavy furniture can collapse and wall tiles and windowpanes are damaged in many buildings. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met United Kingdom Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in London
An injured soldier is transferred to a hospital following a clash between Thai and Cambodian troops over a disputed border area in Sisaket Province, Thailand, December 7,
SUDOKU
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Strong India face shaky South Africa in key build-up to T20 World Cup
Big picture Since contesting a nail-biting T20 World Cup final in 2024, India and South Africa have gone in different directions in T20 Internationals (T20Is). India have arguably become an even better team since lift-
India have won 25 of their 28 T20Is outright when Hardik Pandya has been in their side, losing two and tying one. That tie, against Sri Lanka at this year's Asia Cup, coincided with Hardik going off the field injured after bowling just one over.
ing that trophy, achieving a 26-4 record (24 outright wins and two Super Over wins) with a brand of play perfectly suited to the conditions they will defend their title in February-March 2026.
South Africa, meanwhile, have won nine and lost 16 of their T20Is since that day in Barbados.
India have a largely-settled side in the lead-up to the 2026 tournament, with most of their players enjoying a sense of continuity and role clarity. The same can't be said for South Africa. Over recent months, they've lost perhaps their most feared T20I player, Heinrich Klaasen, to retirement, and have been without other key players for injury and workload-management reasons. In that time, they've lost series to Australia and Pakistan as well as a oneoff match to Namibia, and became, against England at Old Trafford, the first team to concede a 300-plus total in a Full-Member-vs-FullMember T20I.
South Africa, in short, have a lot of work to do between now and February 9, when they begin their World Cup campaign against Canada in Ahmedabad. That work will begin with one of the toughest assignments they could face in this format, against a fullstrength India in India. But they don't have too much to lose in this series, and plenty of experience and knowledge to gain from playing five matches in conditions similar to what they'll face at that tournament.
In the spotlight – Hardik Pandya and Dewald Brevis
Since the start of 2024,
When Hardik hasn't been available, India have nine wins, two losses, and two ties. India are still a formidable side without Hardik, but they lose quite a bit of the near-invincible aura they've otherwise built in T20Is. Hardik balances the team beautifully, giving them the cheat code of batting all the way to number eight while having six genuine bowling options. He's back now, after recovering from the quadriceps issue that kept him out of the Australia tour, and India are at pretty much full strength.
Since his debut in August 2023, no batter in the world (minimum 50 balls faced vs spin) has been more destructive against spin than Dewald Brevis, who has achieved a T20I strike rate of 225.00 against this style of bowling while averaging 60.00. Brevis comes into the T20Is in prime form, having played crucial knocks in all three OneDay Internationals (ODIs), and he comes up against an India attack that will include three – possibly even four –spinners. It should make for an exhilarating contest.
Team news
With Hardik and Shubman Gill – who returns for the first time since suffering a neck injury during the Kolkata Test – back, India have two main selection questions to address: whether Jitesh Sharma, who displaced Sanju Samson during the Australia tour, continues as keeper, and who gets the number-eight slot, with three candidates bringing three entirely-different skillsets to that role.
India (probable): 1) Abhishek Sharma;
2) Shubman Gill; 3) Suryakumar Yadav (Captain); 4) Tilak Varma; 5) Jitesh Sharma/Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper); 6) Hardik Pandya; 7) Axar Patel; 8) Harshit Rana/ Washington Sundar/Shivam Dube; 9) Kuldeep Yadav; 10) Varun Chakravarthy and 11) Jasprit Bumrah.
South Africa's ordinary recent record in T20Is is a little deceptive, because they've seldom had their best players on the pitch. This series may give us our first glimpse of the kind of XI they are hoping to play at the World Cup, with Aiden Markram back to lead the side after being rested from the T20Is in Pakistan, and with David Miller and Anrich Nortje back from injury. Two points of interest are whether Markram opens or bats at number three, and whether South Africa pick a second left-arm spinner in the all-rounder George Linde. And perhaps the surest indication of South Africa's recent unsettledness is that Donovan Ferreira, who captained them in Pakistan, is far from certain to start in Cuttack.
South Africa: 1) Quinton de Kock (wicketkeeper); 2) Aiden Markram (Captain); 3) Reeza Hendricks; 4) Dewald Brevis; 5) David Miller; 6) Tristan Stubbs; 7) Corbin Bosch/George Linde; 8) Marco Jansen; 9) Keshav Maharaj; 10) Lungi Ngidi and 11) Anrich Nortje.
Pitch and conditions
South Africa have featured in two of the three T20Is Cuttack has hosted, and won both of them. They bowled India out for 92 in 2015, in a match marred by crowd trouble, and won a closer game by six wickets, seven years later, thanks to a 46-ball 81 from Klaasen.
Conditions here tend to have something for everyone: a bit of early help for the seamers, a bit of grip for the spinners, and typically plenty of dew to complicate bowlers' lives. This evening in Cuttack is set to be overcast and hazy, though rainfree.
Stats and trivia
South Africa need one win in this series to become the most successful T20I team against India. Currently, they are tied with Australia and England with 12 wins each against India.
Jasprit Bumrah (99) and Hardik Pandya (98) are within sight of their 100th T20I wickets. Arshdeep
Singh (105) is the only India bowler to have got to that mark so far.
Tilak Varma (996) and Sanju Samson (995) are both just one hit away from 1000 T20I runs.
Of all the batters to have scored 1000 runs in T20Is, Abhishek Sharma has the
best strike rate (189.51).
Quotes
"It's T20 cricket. It's an entertaining format and that's the brand and the way we want to play. We want guys to free themselves up, enjoy the game, let their best
skills be on show. Hopefully, if we put a collective effort together, the result will be a good one. It's just an exciting time. T20 cricket is always meant to be exciting and we're looking forward to that." – South Africa Captain Aiden Markram (ESPNcricinfo)
Salah left out by Liverpool for Inter
Mohamed Salah has been left out of the squad for Liverpool's Champions League match at Inter Milan.
The club have decided to remove Salah from selection for a short period after he gave an explosive interview on Saturday, claiming that he was "thrown under the bus" by Liverpool and his relationship with Head Coach Arne Slot had broken down.
Sources told BBC Sport that the decision has been taken with the full support of Slot and that it is in the best interest of all parties involved for Salah to have a brief period away from selection given the nature and timing of the player's public comments.
It is understood there will be no formal disciplinary action taken by the club.
The 33-year-old is set to depart for the Africa Cup of Nations next Monday and also looks likely to also miss Liverpool's game against Brighton on Saturday.
Liverpool's 19-man squad flew to Milan on Monday afternoon and Slot was scheduled to speak at the news conference alongside Alisson Becker at 18:45 GMT.
Salah gave his interview after he was an unused substitute in Saturday's 3-3 draw at Leeds United the third straight game the Egypt international has started on the bench.
The Reds let a 2-0 lead slip in the draw at Leeds, with Salah an unused substitute for the game.
The previous two games had seen Salah come on as a substitute in a 1-1 home draw at Sunderland, while he was left on the bench in a 2-0 win at West Ham.
His last start was in a 4-1 defeat by PSV Eindhoven at Anfield in a Champions League group game and his last goal came in a 2-0 win at Aston Villa on Saturday, November 1.
Salah has scored five goals in 18 appearances in the Premier League and
Milan game
Champions League this season.
Overall, he has 250 goals in 420 Liverpool appearances and his 29 top-flight goals in the 2024-25 campaign helped the Anfield side win the Premier League title last season.
Salah, who joined Liverpool from Roma in 2017, signed a new two-year contract with the club in April.
BBC Sport pundit and former England striker Wayne Rooney has said Salah is "destroying his legacy" at the club and said prior to the forward being left out of the Inter game that Slot should not involve him in Italy or for the home match against Brighton on Saturday.
"In my head, I'm going to enjoy that game because I don't know what is going to happen now," Salah said on Saturday.
"I will be in Anfield to say goodbye to the fans and go to Africa Cup of Nations. I don't know what is going to happen when I am there.
Salah may not have made the trip to Milan, but the fact that he was training with his teammates on Monday morning suggests that there is a way back at Liverpool for the Egyptian.
Leaving him out of the squad was a decision made in consultation with Slot and it leaves no doubt about who is in charge, but it could have been much worse Salah
wasn't even fined by the club for his outburst at Leeds.
Given his choice of words, it would not have come as a surprise if Salah was not allowed to train with the first team, but the 33-year-old was all smiles in front of the cameras on Monday. His words on Saturday implied that an exit in January was possible, but BBC Sport understands that the Egyptian is not actively looking for a way out. And the notion that it is in the best interests of all parties for Salah to have a period away from selection indicates that Liverpool still see a future with the current PFA Players' Player of the Year
Furthermore, there are currently no plans for Salah to leave Liverpool any earlier than December 15 (which is the latest release date) for the Africa Cup of Nations.
It's worth noting Salah's words when he signed his new contract in April: "I have played eight years here, hopefully it's going to be 10. I'm enjoying my life here, enjoying my football. I have had the best years of my career here." There is little doubt that Salah spoke from the heart on Sunday. Missing out on the Inter game will hurt him, but here is still a chance for him at Liverpool under Slot and that will be the question on everyone's lips when the Liverpool boss speaks to the media on Monday evening. (BBC Sport)
Hardik Pandya will be a key figure for India
Mohamed Salah was benched in his last three games
Dewald Brevis has been in fine form
CWI President confirms impending exit following Cabinet appointment
Cricket West Indies (CWI) President, Dr Kishore Shallow has confirmed that he will not seek re-election when his current term ends, following his recent appointment as the Minister of Tourism and Maritime Affairs in St Vincent and the Grenadines.
In a video statement released by CWI, Shallow addressed growing speculation about whether his new ministerial duties would affect his leadership of the regional cricket body. He reassured stakeholders that he would continue to serve through the remainder of his term, but emphasised that he would step aside thereafter.
“I know that some of you may be concerned about my recent appointment to Cabinet and what it may mean for my continued service as President of Cricket West Indies. Let me be upfront and transparent with you, as I have always been,” Shallow said.
He explained that the decision followed careful consideration: “My conviction is that the work ahead requires steady leadership and a commitment to completing the reforms already set in motion. It is for this reason that I will conclude my current term, but with the intention not to seek re-election.”
Shallow acknowledged that holding both a po-
he noted that similar dual roles are common internationally.
“It is true that my appointment as a Minister while simultaneously serving as President of Cricket West Indies may seem slightly uncommon in our region; However, it is not unusual within the global cricket community,” he said, referencing colleagues at the International Cricket Council who have served as Ministers or Members of Parliament.
Before confirming his plans, Shallow stated that CWI conducted “comprehensive due diligence” to ensure there were no conflicts of interest and that
all ethical and legal requirements were satisfied. According to him, the key concern was not legality but capacity.
“While there is no conflict of interest, the legitimate question is whether I can effectively manage both portfolios. Having consulted widely with our Board and leadership, I can assure you that I can and will.”
Shallow is expected to focus on completing ongoing reforms within CWI during the remainder of his presidency. The organisation will now begin preparing for a leadership transition once his term concludes.
48 Kyu ranks, 6 Shodan undergo examination
look at the students who underwent examination on Sunday last
Tucber Park storm into Ivan Madray T20 final
Tucber Park Cricket Club (TPCC) advanced to the final of the Ivan Madray T20 cricket competition after defeating Young Warriors Cricket Club (YWCC) by seven wickets in their semi-final clash on Saturday.
At the Albion Community Centre Ground, rain reduced the match to a 12-over affair, with Young Warriors taking first strike and posting 90-5. Martin Singh led the scoring with 33, while Kevon Jawahir (15) and Seon Hetmyer (14) were the only other batsmen to reach double figures. National Under-19 pacer Micah Amsterdam continued his excellent run of form, claiming four wickets, while Eugene La Fleur picked up the remaining scalp for TPCC.
In reply, Tucber Park made light work of the chase, easing to victory in the 11th over. Berbice batsman Garfield Benjamin stroked a fluent 44, decorated with four boundar-
ies and a six, while Damion Vantull hit two maximums in his brisk 18. Tomani Caesar remained unbeaten on 18 to see his team comfortably home.
Tucber Park will now face Albion Community Centre in the final, with the date and venue expected to be announced shortly.
Forty-eight students from the Kyu Ranks and six students for Shodan (1st Dan Black Belt) were put under examination on Sunday last, by Shihan Amir Khouri (8th Dan) assisted by Sensei Parmeshwar Persaud (5th Dan) and Sensei Leonard Leuwaisee (3rd Dan) at the YMCA, Thomas Lands, Georgetown.
According to the Association Do Shotokan Karate-Guyana (ASK- G), the overcast day was refreshingly cooling, enabling exciting performances. The examination commenced at 10:00h and was wrapped up by 13:30h, after which the results were announced to examined students and photographs taken.
Following are the day’s promotions:
Students promoted from:-
10th Kyu (white) to (yellow belt) 8th Kyu: Ranveer Ramgobin, Gianna Browne, Cairon Simpson, Daud Simon, Ronaldo Payne, Kavi Ramnaraine, Alonzo Simon, Joshua Jairam. Xanya Luke & Michael Jairam.
8th Kyu to (orange belt) 7th Kyu: Eshani Mohabir, Azariah Khargu, Romero Fredericks & Liam Sampson.
8th Kyu to (green belt) 6th B Kyu: Omarion Dey, Jonathan Reid, & Katherine Haly.
7th Kyu to (green belt) 6th Kyu: Shrawan Singh, Lavesh Singh & Sadeeq Duncan.
7th Kyu to (blue belt) 5th B Kyu:Shevelia Moore, Keifer Rodney & Nailah Lewis.
7th Kyu to (blue belt) 5th Kyu: Kimberly Haly, Mariah Persaud & Danny Savory.
6th Kyu to (blue belt) 5th B Kyu: Dezion Sears & Erin Hopkinson.
5th Kyu to (purple belt) 4th Kyu: Jihanna Smith, Alvita Forrester, Ashton Lall, Samuel Persaud, & Khaleesi Charles.
5th Kyu to (brown belt) 3rd B Kyu: Liam Jaisingh 4th Kyu to (brown belt) 3rd B Kyu: Kyron Huntly, Evon Rose & Soofian Guptar.
4th Kyu to (brown belt) 3rd Kyu: Kristian Richards, Afeerah Ali, Asim Hamilton & Bibi Millington.
4th Kyu to (brown belt) 2nd Kyu: Abel Harris
3rd Kyu to (brown belt) 2nd B Kyu:
Nathan Henry 3rd Kyu to (brown belt) 2nd Kyu: Radane Bissessar & Shreya Persaud. 3rd Kyu to (brown belt) 1st Kyu: Kyron Savory
2nd Kyu to (brown belt) 1st Kyu: Maya Balram & Ameena Zaman.
1st Kyu Brown Belt to 1st Dan Black BeltWayne Browne Ameer Shariff
Shawn Ranjit
Cattleya Oscar Karrisa Savory
Otavia Bobb
The ASK-G extended gratitude to the parents and supporters who were on hand on Sunday to witness their children and friends performing in the examination. The Association noted that training continued at the ASK-G Canaan Karate Dojo (Sensei Parmeshwar Persaud) and the HQ YMCA Thomas Lands Dojo (Amir Khouri & Leonard Leuwaisee). Meanwhile, preparations are ongoing for the 2026 Annual ASK-G National Karate Championships, scheduled for Sunday, February 15, 2026 at the YMCA, Thomas Lands. Additionally, the 2026 Guyana Karate Federation (GKF) One Guyana National Karate Championships is tentatively billed for February/ March.
litical office and a major sports-administration role may appear unusual within the Caribbean. However,
Dr Kishore Shallow’s current term ends in 2027
Micah Amsterdam claimed a four-wicket haul
Richardson, Junor highlight "understanding" in IGG futsal win
Legendary Golden Jaguars forward Gregory “Jackie Chan” Richardson and renowned player Jermin “Pankey” Junor pulled off a first over the past weekend, coaching Guyana’s futsal team to an overall win at the 2025 Inter-Guiana Games (IGG).
With futsal a discipline that Guyana struggled in during the last two editions of the tournament, the inclusion of the renowned coaches and Team Manager Randy King clearly did the trick this time around.
In an interview with <<<Guyana Times Sport>>>, after receiving their gold medal, Richardson and Junor both discussed the preparation work they were able to execute with the team.
“Well, it was a lot of work. First of all, we want to big up the Guyana Football
Federation; National Sports Commission; Ministry of Youth, Culture and Sport for putting together some initiatives long before this
tournament. So, that made it easy on the coaches to put together a team to come and compete in these games,” Junor shared.
Johnson, Lewis relishing GDF’s unbeaten win
The Guyana Defence Force’s Women’s football team have already checked one box, becoming the first female team in Guyana to secure a $1 million grand prize in any football competition.
But, after their League-deciding victory in the Guyana Football Federation’s Women’s Division One League on Friday last, the Camp Ayanganna-based outfit is hungry for more.
In what would otherwise be considered a tense outing against the Guyana Police Force (GPF) Women, in a league-deciding match, the GDF’s Sandra Johnson rose to the occasion, effecting a stunning, left- footed shot that ultimately won GDF the game.
In a brief chat with <<<Guyana Times Sport>>> following the game, the winger shared her thoughts on Friday’s game.
“I think it was really good; we trained very, very hard for this victory. It was really competitive,” Johnson expressed.
The highest goal-scorer of the League, Johnson elaborated on her emotions after netting what went on to become the game-winning strike.
She explained, “After that goal, I felt real good and I want to say thank you to my team-mates and my coach.”
Shifting focus to the upcoming knockout tournament, which is set to get underway tomorrow, the striker expressed an inten-
tion to also claim the top spot in that competition.
Johnson told this publication, “It’s really important [to win the knockout tournament], we really want that first-place title for GDF.”
GDF’s Women’s Captain Glengie Lewis also chimed in on her team’s win.
“Well, we worked for this and we did it here, we showed them. I feel very happy. The team, we worked hard and this is the result we get. It’s very important for us to win this league,” Lewis related to <<<Guyana Times Sport>>>.
The knockout phase of the Women’s Division One League is set to commence on Wednesday, December 10 and conclude on Friday, December 26.
Richardson added,
“Yeah, I also wanna thank the GFF and the Sports Minister. We put together the right team for this tour-
nament this time and ya’ll will see, next year we’ll put together a good team again for the next tournament and we’re going to be strong in futsal from now on.”
Quizzed on the key aspects that they tried to pass on to the youngsters, both Coaches agreed on ‘understanding the game’ being a major takeaway.
Richardson divulged, “Some of the things I tried to pass on to the guys: understanding the game. Understanding how futsal is played from field football, it’s a different game, it’s more faster, more intense. So, that’s what I try to teach them and they adapt quick.”
Junor further elaborated, “As you know, we’ve been playing futsal for a long while for Sparta Boss and it’s one of the most dominant teams in the country, in terms of futsal. So, ba-
sically, we teach the fellas the understanding of the game. Once you know, once you understand the game, it’s going to be easier to play it and it was a good group. They listened to us, put in the work and we came out with the gold medal for the first time. It’s a historical something that we pull off.”
Chiming in on the importance of the futsal version of the game, Junor agreed that it can help in their field football development.
“It’s a more intense game, like Coach said, it’s a more quick-thinking game. So, basically, once you understand futsal, you could make it in any football,” Junor explained.
Guyana drew 6-6 with French Guiana on Saturday before turning it around to pull off a 6-4 win against Suriname to clinch the gold medal.
Women’s Inter-County T20…
Berbice, Essequibo march into final after dominant performances
Apersistent morning drizzle could not deny Berbice Women a hard-fought victory yesterday, as they overcame Demerara Women in an 11-overs-a-side contest reduced owing to rain.
Winning the toss and choosing to field first, Berbice executed a disciplined bowling effort to restrict Demerara to a modest total before completing a composed run chase with eight balls to spare.
Demerara Women struggled to accelerate on a slow, damp outfield and finished on 39 for 3 from their allotted overs. The Barkoye sisters, Naomi and Cianna, were the standout performers with the bat, each contributing 11 to steady an otherwise subdued innings. Berbice bowlers Daniella Hicks and Plaffianna Millington were instrumental in keeping the scoring in check. Hicks claimed two crucial wickets, while Millington picked up the third to ensure Demerara never found momentum.
Chasing 40 for victory, Berbice Women paced their reply sensibly despite losing three wickets along the way. The innings was anchored by Millington, who followed up her strong bowling performance with a valuable 13. Crystal Durant provided steady support with an unbeaten 9, guiding Berbice to 40 for 3 in 9.4 overs and sealing a confident win.
Essequibo Women produced a commanding allround performance yesterday to claim a comprehensive victory over Hinterland Women in the second match of the day. After winning the toss
and electing to bat, Essequibo posted a competitive 111 for 4 from their full 20 overs, thanks largely to a captain’s knock from Laurene Williams.
Williams led with poise and determination, crafting a superb unbeaten 51 from 69 deliveries. Her innings, which featured two boundaries, held the Essequibo innings together and provided the backbone for the team’s total. She found support from Kumarie Persaud, who struck a brisk 17 off 12 balls, and Annestecia Vanezuela, who chipped in with 13 from 10. Hinterland bowlers Feona Benjamin and Grazil Thomas were the only ones to find success, taking a wicket apiece.
Chasing 112 for victory,
Hinterland Women faltered early and never recovered, eventually being dismissed for just 33 in 10.1 overs. Only Grazil Thomas showed resistance with the bat, top scoring with 13. The Essequibo bowling attack proved far too strong, spearheaded by the outstanding Tramaine Marks, who tore through the batting order with remarkable figures of 5 for 7. She was well supported by Kumarie Persaud, who followed up her earlier batting contribution with 3 for 13.
After commanding performances in their respective matches, Berbice Women and Essequibo Women are set to face off today in the much-anticipated final at the La Bonne Intention (LBI) Ground.
Futsal Coaches Gregory “Jackie Chan” Richardson and Jermin “Pankey” Junor
Glengie Lewis (on ball) was a key figure in GDF’s win last week
Essequibo's Tramaine Marks awarded the Player of the Match
Guyana’s Gold- medal winning Futsal team at IGG 2025
Glengie Lewis (on ball)