Guyana Times - Wednesday 21 May, 2025

US ready to support GDF in tackling Venezuelan Sindicato gang along Guyana's border

...“will always stand shoulder to shoulder with Guyana” – Ambassador

$3M per hinterland village for home upgrades, $1M for sport facilities – VP

…US$124M being invested in just 3 hinterland hospitals

…$4B payout earmarked from carbon credit sales

Court of Appeal

Judges

"Be our eyes and ears” – GDF Chief urges Toshaos to guard sovereignty

6 homeless after Corentyne fire

Master accurate measurements before entering workforce – GNBS urges TVET students

9 …as VP warns domestic airlines over price gouging Ahead of Venezuela’s 'fictitious' Essequibo election Govt eyes GDF commercial arm to slash soaring hinterland airfare prices

2020 election fraud trial "Thief, Thief!" – witness recalls hearing in chaotic GECOM tabulation centre CEO steering company through structural reforms, not "bubbling on the job" – GuySuCo Child sex offender jailed in US after fleeing to Guyana in 2022 Bandits agree to repay $600,000 to Chinese supermarket after robbery …ordered to apologise, undergo counseling Poverty is a choice now – outgoing PSC Head

…urges Guyanese to grab hold of economic boom

Judge Justice Joanne Barlow Justice Kim Kyte-Thomas Justice Nareshwar Harnanan Justice Navindra Singh

Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry Justice Damone Younge Justice of Appeal Rafiq Khan

Govt eyes GDF commercial arm to slash soaring hinterland airfare prices

…as VP warns domestic airlines over price gouging

The Government of Guyana has revealed that consideration will be given to develop a commercial arm of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) to help inflation in the interior locations if domestic airlines continue to raise their prices.

This was revealed by Vice President (VP), Dr Bharrat

Jagdeo on Tuesday during day two of the National Toshaos’ Council (NTC) Conference 2025.

The aim of the consideration, the VP said, is to keep air freight prices low for Guyanese citizens transporting goods and traveling to hinterland communities

the ones inflating prices. According to them these airlines are often chartered by big businesses who then raise the airfare particularly for cargo.

In this regard the VP revealed that conversations will be held with village Toshaos to identify whether a similar system could be utilised for them.

“This is for some of the communities, particularly that fly goods in, not like Lethem so much, Region Nine where a lot of the goods go by transit land. So, I want to discuss this afternoon with the Toshaos whether some of the villages can charter the plane too, instead of the private businessmen chartering it… They said they expressed a desire to do that,

and also compete with domestic airlines that continue to exploit consumers.

According to Jagdeo, based on observations, aircraft operators are hiking their prices every year during the NTC season— a period where a number of indigenous leaders and community members venture out from their hinterland communities to attend the conference in Georgetown.

“And every time, it seems as though before every NTC, these aircraft operators raise the rate. It seems like they just wait before the NTC to raise the rates again.”

In this regard Jagdeo highlighted that the Government had engaged aircraft operators regarding the issue. However, if the trend continues Jagdeo noted that the Government would be fully committed towards establishing a commercial arm of the GDF to compete with private aircraft operators.

“So, we've had some discussions with them, and if they can't be reasonable about these rates, then the Government will invest in a commercial arm of the GDF to compete with them so that we can keep these rates, the freight rates down… in fact, we may very well buy four more of the aircrafts that we've just bought to do that in the next term in office.”

Moreover, Jagdeo revealed that airlines who operate in areas that are not easily accessible by roads argued that they are not

charter the plane, and then arrange for the people who are using it in the villages to get the lower freight rate we'll discuss that this afternoon that's one thing that's a big concern of ours.”

Additionally, recognising the increase in demand for goods and services in hinterland regions, VP Jagdeo also revealed that his Government will upgrade several airstrips allowing larger aircrafts that can carry a significant amount of freight to access these areas.

“But in the hinterland, the biggest concern has been the cost of transit, moving people and goods into some communities. So we plan to also upgrade and expand a lot of these airstrips so that bigger aircrafts can go, and then especially in areas they can't go. And then we are going to operate a Government-owned service, if we can't solve this problem of the gouging in the market.”

The Government is actively working to improve and maintain hinterland airstrips, recognising their crucial role in accessing remote communities and supporting economic activities. This initiative is part of a broader plan to enhance air transport infrastructure and ensure equitable development across the country.

Billions have been allocated in Budgets 2024 and 2025 for the rehabilitation and maintenance of airstrips across the country, aiming to enhance connectivity and support economic growth in the hinterland regions.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

Toshaos during day two of the National Toshaos Conference 2025

BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, May 21 – no retraction and Thursday, May 22 –00:15h-01:45h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, May 21 –11:05h-12:35h and Thursday, May 22 – 12:15h-13:45h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Rain showers with instances of thunder are expected during the day and at night, with lateafternoon sunshine. Temperatures are expected to range between 23 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to East South-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 3.58 metres.

High Tide: 11:27h reaching a maximum height of 2.29 metres.

Low Tide: 17:32h reaching a minimum height of 0.88 metre.

"Be

Ahead of Venezuela’s

'fictitious'

Essequibo election

our eyes and ears" – GDF Chief urges Toshaos to guard sovereignty

hief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, has urged Toshaos and village leaders to be vigilant and essentially help serve as the Guyana Defence Force (GDF’s) eyes and ears, ahead of the “fictitious” elections Venezuela has claimed it will hold for a governor for Guyana’s Essequibo territory.

Brigadier Khan made these remarks while addressing hundreds of Toshaos attending the National Toshao Council conference 2025 at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC).

“I am on record to say that as we prepare for May 26th, our 59th independence anniversary, there’s a day just before that. May 25th. The Venezuelan authorities are holding an election to appoint a governor to a fictitious land. I want you to be vigilant,” Brigadier Khan said.

“I want you to tell us to turn right, to turn left and what kind of decision we should make. People are taking videos of what’s happening on the other side and send it to me. Send it to the Commissioner. We want to know when to turn left and when to turn right, and we need your support.”

Khan noted that any support provided by indigenous communities will not only help the GDF in defending them, but will ultimately help the communities too since it will enhance the army’s ability to respond to evolving threats.

“In a few days’ time, we will be celebrating our 59th anniversary of independence. It’s important for us to understand what sovereignty means and to love and protect our country. Give us the information. Tell us what’s happening. And all of us will go back to that ecosystem and realise

how lovely we are as a people and our destination is one of prosperity and peace.”

According to Khan, Guyana’s continued and future prosperity is heavily dependent on the country defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity. With this in mind, he noted that all citizens have a stake in achieving this… a message he noted that President and Commander-in-Chief Dr Irfaan Ali has been reinforcing,

“This is my interpretation of what President [Dr Irfaan Ali] has been talking about. He wants everybody, to have a better or improved quality of life. But what do we go to get there? It’s a combination of things. And sovereignty, territorial integrity, is a key part of that,” Brigadier Khan said.

“We have to ensure we can protect what we have, so we can get what we need. And this is an important part in what the uniformed officers and ranks play. And

I want to tell you that you are part of that. The will of the people. Democracy. Inclusivity. All of us are in that ecosystem.”

Back in December 2023, Presidents Ali of Guyana and Nicolás Maduro of Venezuela signed the Argyle Declaration in Argyle, St Vincent and the Grenadines. This agreement was facilitated by regional leaders, including Prime Ministers Ralph Gonsalves of St Vincent and the Grenadines and Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica, with support from Caricom, the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), Brazil, and the United Nations (UN).

Key provisions of the Argyle Declaration had included a commitment to non-aggression, the peaceful resolution framework and the establishment of a joint commission comprising Foreign Ministers and technical experts from both countries was to be formed

to address mutually agreed matters.

Despite the provisions, Venezuela continues to use aggressive tactics against Guyana, including plans to unlawfully elect a Governor and legislative council of “Guayana Esequiba State”, which is the name the Spanish-speaking nation has given to Guyana’s Essequibo region.

In January 2025, the Nicolás Maduro regime had announced plans to hold elections in the Essequibo region, which is two-thirds of Guyana’s landmass, on May 25, 2025 – something which Guyana wrote the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in March to have blocked.

The World Court, which is hearing the case to settle the decades-long border controversy between the two South American neighbours, subsequently issued an order that Venezuela must refrain from conducting or preparing to conduct elections in Guyana’s Essequibo region.

It also reaffirmed the provisional measures issued by the Court on December 1, 2023, which states that “… Venezuela shall refrain from taking any action which would modify the situation that currently prevails in the territory in dispute, whereby the Co-operative Republic of Guyana administers and exercises control over that area; and (2) Both Parties shall refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute before the Court or make it more difficult to resolve.”

GDF Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan

Editor: Tusika Martin

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

Marketing: 231-8064Accounts: 225-6707

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

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

Commitment to Amerindian & hinterland advancement

The Government of Guyana’s renewed focus on Amerindian and hinterland development, as outlined during Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo’s address on the second day of the National Toshaos Conference, signals a meaningful and strategic step towards inclusive national growth. The suite of initiatives announced, spanning housing, infrastructure, sports, health, and digital access, reflects a growing recognition of the vital contributions of Indigenous communities to the nation’s fabric, as well as a commitment to closing longstanding developmental gaps between coastal and hinterland regions.

Central to the Vice President’s address was the announcement of a new housing support initiative, which will see each Indigenous village receiving $3 million to assist residents with home upgrades. Importantly, these funds will be administered by village councils, empowering local leadership and allowing communities to tailor the distribution of resources based on individual household needs. This approach aligns with principles of autonomy and participatory governance, reinforcing Indigenous self-determination in the process of national development.

This housing initiative complements the Government’s broader ‘steel and cement’ programme, first introduced at GuyExpo in 2022, which responded to calls from residents in low-income communities for more accessible home improvement support. Extending this initiative to the hinterland demonstrates both responsiveness and equity in Government policy, acknowledging the unique infrastructural challenges in these regions.

The Vice President also announced a $1 million annual allocation to each village for the development of sport grounds. While modest in quantum, this investment is significant in its potential to foster youth engagement, community wellness, and social cohesion. Rural and hinterland youths have historically faced limited access to recreational facilities, and this initiative may go some way in creating safer, healthier spaces for communal interaction and talent development.

Of particular note is the Government’s commitment to maintaining full disbursement of carbon credit earnings to Indigenous communities. Despite a decrease in total carbon revenue this year, the Administration has ensured that villages will continue to receive US$23.27 million, approximately 21 per cent of the available resources. This is consistent with the original framework for equitable benefit-sharing under Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), and it is a critical measure in ensuring environmental stewardship is matched with tangible economic benefit for those who have long served as guardians of the country’s forests.

Moreover, these direct allocations exist alongside ongoing, largescale capital projects in Indigenous regions. The Government’s US$124 million investment in hinterland healthcare, covering the construction of three new hospitals in Kato, Moruca, and Lethem, as well as their full equipment, is one of the most ambitious health infrastructure projects ever undertaken in the interior. These facilities, once operational, are expected to radically improve access to primary and emergency care for tens of thousands of hinterland residents, while also easing the burden on over-stretched regional hospitals.

Added to this is the planned US$15 million investment in solar farms, designed to bring renewable energy solutions to remote villages, and the monthly expenditure of US$2 million to maintain Internet hubs across the hinterland. These digital access points are vital for bridging the digital divide and ensuring Indigenous populations are not left behind in the increasingly connected global economy. Access to the Internet facilitates online education, Government services, telemedicine, and market access – all of which are essential for modern economic participation.

Taken together, these announcements represent a policy direction rooted in equity, inclusivity, and the principles of sustainable development. However, it is essential that the momentum generated by these commitments be sustained through robust implementation, transparent reporting, and consistent engagement with hinterland leadership. Village councils, regional authorities, and civil society must be equipped with the necessary tools and oversight mechanisms to ensure that funds are managed prudently and that benefits reach those most in need.

Further, while the monetary allocations are commendable, structural challenges such as road access, education quality, and water security remain pressing issues in many hinterland communities. These areas will require continued and focused attention to ensure that hinterland development is holistic and not fragmented by sector or geography.

The National Toshaos Conference remains a critical platform for Amerindian and hinterland voices to be heard and for development policy to be shaped in a participatory manner. The announcements made by the Vice President offer encouraging signs of what can be achieved when policy is responsive to grassroots consultation.

Management to blame at NIS

Dear Editor,

The National Insurance Scheme is an organization which is very important and has some very efficient, competent qualified professional in its employ. But it is also a prime example of an organization which has in its midst some of the most incompetent and arrogant individuals in Guyana. As a senior Manager with over 30 years’ experience some of them would not have lasted three months much less to sit behind their desk for years and be nothing else but nuisances to the public.

In January 2025, I submitted a completed standing order to the National Insurance Scheme to have my monthly payments paid to a particular city bank replacing the one I was using. In early February, before I departed Guyana, I went into NIS enquiring if it was processed and was told that it was and will be effective from February. Nothing happened in February nor March. At the end of March, I called and was successful in speaking to a young lady who was very courteous and businesslike. She checked and discovered that the Standing Order was not processed and admonished the person for not doing so despite having it on his/her desk since February. An undertaking to have it done the same day was made and

I terminated the call after the normal pleasantries.

On April 22nd, I did a Life certificate online and was told that it would have been valid for three (3) months and would be processed accordingly. On May 9th, 2025, I visited the NIS at Brickdam and after waiting approximately 30 minutes, I was told by the attending staff that the Standing Order done in January was entered into the system April 30th, 2025. More than three (3) months after it was submitted.

I requested some form of official confirmation since I was advised on two (2) previous occasions that it was in the system so I have no reason to have confidence in her utterances, she muttered some foolish arrogance to which I advised her was unacceptable.

I requested to see the relevant Manager who was very prompt in responding. She spoke with me and confirmed that indeed the entry was made on April 30th and apologized for such a long delay. When I enquired about the Life Certificate that was done on April the 22nd, I discovered that as at May 9th, it was not in the system and she immediately took appropriate action to have that situation corrected.

Incredibly, as a consequence of my further enquiries, I made another star-

tling discovery which can best described as ludicrous. I was told that NIS did not make future payments for eligible persons residing overseas and that for these persons to have their NIS payments into their account monthly, they would have to complete a Life Certificate every month before the 10th.

Now I was told whilst waiting to see the clerk, as well as three other overseas based Guyanese, that Life Certificate for overseas based Guyanese was valid for three months while for Guyanese residents it was six months.

And to make matters worse, I discovered on Wednesday 15th May that my sister’s Life Certificate which was submitted on January 29th, 2025 was also not in the system. When I produced a copy of the Life Certificate, no proper explanation was given except to say the Camp Street, Georgetown office did it and it was not sent to Brickdam to be processed.

In fact, it is my understanding that Life Certificates done to the number in the Camp Street office takes ages to be sent across to the Brickdam office to be processed. My sister has not received her NIS payment from since November 2024.

Now I am acutely aware that there are a large number of overseas based

Guyanese and the work load can be tremendous, but that is not an excuse for the level of incompetence on display here. It is clearly a combination of incompetent staff and poor management from the standpoint that adequate measures have not been taken to arrest a situation which is obviously beyond the capacity of the individuals currently operating in the relevant department.

If the volume is beyond the capacity of the current department, then it is incumbent upon management to take necessary action to alleviate the bottle neck and allocate resources to relieve the situation so that persons who have paid their NIS for years can be able to receive their monies without the unnecessary hassle. What is the use you have an efficient system for doing the Life Certificates and the process of recording it is highly inefficient? What sense does it make? NIS problem is a management problem. Top Management has to take responsibility for this nonsense. There is a management function called “Controlling” and if it that was being carried out the areas that need additional resources would have been identified and the inefficiencies corrected.

Students from Santa Rosa Primary in Region One proudly display handmade signs affirming their patriotism with a clear message:

"Essequibo Belongs to Guyana” (Santa Rosa Secondary School photos)

Mortgage ceiling hike was longstanding request, not political ploy

Dear Editor,

We have to refer to a letter written by Hon Annette Ferguson published on May 20 in which she is implying that His Excellency Dr Mohammed Irfaan Ali was using the Labour Brunch as a campaign strategy for the upcoming elections. In particular she mentioned that announcement of the increase in the mortgage ceiling from $20M to $30M as a political ploy and over the heads of the Society's

Administration.

Far from it, the Society has been engaging His Excellency on this matter for nearly a year. Our last report for its 85th AGM Carried a letter to this effect and sought to justify the increase from $20 million to $35 million. We had two (2) meetings with His Excellency and the Honorable Minister of Finance on this and other matters relating to the Society. We highlighted to

His Excellency of our decision in 2022 to drastically reduce interest rate to as low as 3.5 percent to the highest being 5.7percent. This request for the increase in the mortgage ceiling to $35M will assist many young professional applicants to own a decent home and grow their wealth.

As a mutual organisation, the objective of the New Building Society Limited (NBS) is prof -

Exxon, liability, and Guyana’s growth

Dear Editor, Exxon and oil companies are in the news again as government recently passed a bill on oil insurance – liability for pollution and spills. So far, there has not been any oil spill. And Exxon has committed to combating pollution and clean up should there be a spill. New technology on drilling and production have reduced if not altogether eliminated pollution.

It is not forgotten that Guyana’s recent economy has been fueled by oil, which accounts for over half its GDP as well as exports. Guyana has become a major energy player. Exxon Mobil is the main (only) producer of oil. Exxon’s production of oil has been a boon for all sectors of the economy and the population in general. The country has been the fastest growing over the last five years and likely to remain in this category for the next several years.

Huge revenues have been pouring in since oil was first produced and sold in the international market in December 2019. Oil was discovered in 2015. Initially there was 65K bpd. Oil output increased from a mere 100K barrels daily six years ago to 660 bpd two years ago and has remained about the same today. Exxon just received approval for additional production that will lead to greater revenues that will further boost revenues. Production will increase to 800K later this year, and over a million bpd in 2027. In addition, gas will be carried on shore for energy production later this year at Whales. Government is also thinking about to monetize huge gas reserves. So an incred -

ible amount of revenues will be pouring into the country from Exxon alone, not to mention those from other investors.

The economy has been booming. One can visually see progress in the country with massive roadways and other infrastructure work including drainage. There are beautiful modern glossy buildings all over the city of Georgetown and even in rural areas. Families are expanding homes. Almost every home has at least one vehicle; some have multiple vehicles. Even Exxon has been putting up a modern office building.

A proper ecosystem to boost economic diversification is being undertaken. This is no doubt a result of Exxon’s investment and the revenues generated. Guyana has the potential to be a major investment and trading hub all because of investment from Exxon Mobil. Depots or harbors are being considered that will attract major ships for cargoes to other parts of the Caribbean region and Northern South America.

A government reform mission has been underway over the last five years to attract private investment to further transform the economy. Increased private investment has created new jobs and is helping to address inequality. Companies are growing as are profits for most of them. Repatriation of proceeds from investment has not been an issue in Guyana. As a result of revenues from oil, the country is modernizing its energy and transportation sectors as well as clearing land for housing projects. Whales will begin producing elec -

tricity by year end. A brand new spanking modern high bridge over the Demerara River will also be ready by September. More and more housing projects are coming on stream to meet rising demand from locals and the diaspora.

The country’s transformation over the last five years and the oil liability bill are a result of Exxon’s investment.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

it sufficiency rather than profit maximization. Our Retain Earnings Reserves is 20% of Total Assets and the NBS is in a robust financial health to be able to sustain the increase in mortgage ceiling and new rate adjustment. More importantly, Guyanese will benefit significantly from this higher ceiling of 30 million dollars. In fact, since 2022 when we reduced interest rates for every mortgage holder, they all have been benefitting from substantial rebates of in excess of $300 million per year. This is a significant benefit to borrowers which follows our high interest rate on savings ac -

count of 2.75 percent. The borrowers and save both benefitting from our decisions in these areas of our operation. The economic situation in the country allows us to do so.

Having recognized the need to increase the mortgage ceiling, the Directors of NBS have unanimously sought the Government of Guyana approval for the increase of up to 35 million in its mortgage ceiling. This request was first made since June 2024. We finally agreed recently with the Government's proposal of 30 million maximum with the understanding the we will not increase interest rates

Management

But on the contrary, you get the distinct impression that it is just left there to continue until it collapses then action will be taken to the great inconvenience of the public. This NIS story is good for a comedy but it is very disgusting and embarrassing for an organization and the nation. From taking four months to process a Standing Order, five months and counting to process a Life Certificate

from our existing rates of 3.5 percent for lower loans and 5.7 percent for loans higher than 9 million dollars and up to 30 million dollars.

The announcement by His Excellency at the Labour Brunch was no doubt intended to signal to his audience the many areas of progress being derived by the workers of our beautiful country under his administration and should not be seen as usurping any organization role or authority.

Yours faithfully, Anil Kishun, CEO/Director/ Secretary

to blame...

to misleading the public of the span of Life Certificate for overseas based Guyanese, I will add arrogance and incompetence by a few for good measure.

That these things are happening is unacceptable. NIS can start by fixing the Camp Street bottle neck and establish/ implement a proper Performance Appraisal System which should be used to justify promotion and salary in -

creases. Across the board increases encourages laziness and incompetence of those so inclined and demotivates the hard working and efficient staff within the system. To have these inefficiencies continue unaddressed is an indictment against management and they need to be addressed with alacrity.

Yours truly, Eric Whaul

Page Foundation

English Maths

Instruction: Read the following poem carefully and then answer Items 1-10

The Pond

There was this pond in the village. and little boys, heard till he was sick, were not allowed too near.

Unfathomable pool, they said, 5 that swallowed men and animals just so; and in its depths, old people said, swam galliwasps and nameless horrors; bright boys kept away.

Though drawn so hard by prohibitions, 10 the small boy, fixed in fear, kept off; till one wet summer, grass growing lush, paths muddy, slippery, he found himself there, at the fabled edge.

The brooding pond was dark.

15 Sudden, escaping cloud, the sun came bright; and shimmering in guilt he saw his own face peering from the pool.

Mervyn Morris, “The Pond”, In West Indian Poetry 1989, pp 28-29

1. The first three lines of the poem serve to (A) generate humour and conflict (B) create intrigue and engagement (C) narrate a story about a small boy (D) introduce a warning to the reader

2. What impression is created by “Unfathomable pool” (line 4) and “nameless horrors” (line 7)

(A) Fear, dread and danger

(B) Risk, invisibility and isolation

(C) Darkness, desolation and depth

(D) Intrigue, mystique and solitude

3. What does “bright boys kept away” (line 8) suggest about the boy in the second verse?

(A) He is easily influenced by the other boys.

(B) He is curious but cautious.

(C) His parents are always watching to see if he behaves. (D) His friends are adventurous and he wants to be like them.

4. What does the poet achieve in the phrase “fixed in fear” (line 10)?

(A) Personification of the terror the boy is experiencing (B) Creation of a metaphor to portray the fixation of the boy (C) Use of an alliterative device that reinforces the crippling effect of fear

(D) Development of a simile that underscores how terrified the boy is of the pond

5. Which of the following lines signals a change in the mood of the poem?

(A) “that swallowed men and animals just so” (line 5)

(B) “bright boys kept away” (line 8)

(C) “till one wet summer” (line 11) (D) “shimmering in guilt” (line 16)

6. Which of the following is the BEST explanation for the poet’s repetition of “pool” in “unfathomable pool” (line 11), “brooding pool” (line 14) and “the pool” (line 17)?

(A) Listing the many attempts the speaker makes to visit the pond

(B) Reinforcing the title by giving details about the pond (C) Emphasising the fables told daily by the old people to the children (D) Stating the specific location of the village where the pond is situated

7. Lines 12-13 (paths muddy, slippery, fabled edge” are effective because they (A) reinforce the inclination to break rules (B) heighten the anxiety and love for adventure (C) evoke a sense of danger and wonder at the forbidden (D) celebrate excitement and freedom

8. Which of the following figurative devices BEST describe the phrase “brooding pool” (line 14)?

(A) Simile (B) Paradox (C) Allusion (D) Personification

9. The language of the poem can BEST be described as (A) formal and old-fashioned (B) practical and non-standard (C) informal and conversational (D) engaging and ungrammatical

10. Which of the following themes is explored in the poem? (A) Disobedience and tragedy (B) Confronting guilt and fears (C) Childhood fears and disillusionment (D) Guilt and its crippling consequences

US ready to support GDF in tackling Venezuelan Sindicato gang along Guyana's border

...“will always stand shoulder to shoulder with Guyana” – Ambassador

The United States (US)

is prepared to support the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) in its efforts to combat the growing threat posed by members of Venezuela’s sindicato gang along the Cuyuni River, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), a key stretch of the border between the two countries. This assurance was delivered by US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, during remarks at the Private Sector Commission’s (PSC) 33rd Annual General Meeting on Friday.

Ambassador Theriot described the gang’s recent attacks on GDF patrols as “acts of aggression” by criminals and declared that the US is fully aligned with Guyana in ensuring peace, security, and the protection of its territorial integrity.

“No amount of bluster or saber-rattling changes the fact that the United States will always stand shoulder to shoulder with Guyana in support of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Venezuela, of course, has also been in the news recently due to the sindicato's acts of aggression against the GDF patrolling the Cuyuni. These are criminals engaging in criminal activity. And the United States stands ready to support the GDF in its effort to eradicate this activity along Guyana's frontier and to ensure the safety and security of Guyana's people,” Ambassador Theriot said.

Her comments come just days after the GDF re-

ported multiple armed attacks on its river patrols between May 13 and 15 by men in civilian clothing on the Venezuelan side of the Cuyuni River, between Eteringbang and Makapa.

The incidents have heightened tensions in a region already strained by Venezuela’s escalating rhetoric and controversial plans to hold so-called elections in Guyana’s Essequibo region on May 25, a move the US and international community have roundly condemned.

Theriot reaffirmed the Trump Administration’s unwavering support for Guyana’s sovereignty and emphasised that Venezuela’s actions amount to nothing more than “saber-rattling.”

“We fully support the ICJ's (International Court of Justice) provisional measures for Venezuela to halt its so-called elections in the Essequibo on May 25th. And we are extremely unhappy that they made that ill-ad-

vised decision to go ahead and move forward. You will be seeing a very strongly worded tweet coming out of the State Department very soon on that issue. And it will make extremely clear to you where the US stands,” she revealed.

The Ambassador also highlighted the broader USGuyana partnership, describing it as a powerful alliance between the world’s most advanced economy and the fastest-growing economy. She noted that the US remains Guyana’s largest trade and investment partner and praised the growing collaboration in areas including agriculture, education, defence, and energy.

She noted that for international investors to feel secure, political and civil stability must remain a priority.

“Investment requires more than just a favorable business climate,” she noted. “The two most common concerns we hear from US

2020 election fraud trial

"Thief, Thief!" – witness recalls hearing in chaotic GECOM tabulation centre …testifies to ‘blatant’ election rigging attempts

Local Government Minister, Sonia Parag took the witness stand on Tuesday as the trial into the alleged attempt to rig Guyana’s 2020 General and Regional Elections resumed at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

Parag, who served as an agent for the People’s

Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) during the election outlined what she described as a chaotic and deeply troubling series of events that unfolded during the tabulation of Region Four (Demerara Mahaica) votes, the final and most pivotal district to be counted.

Parag’s testimony paint-

ed a picture of deliberate obstruction, misinformation, and open defiance of electoral procedures by officials of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), particularly during the period of March 4–5, 2020. She told the court that the vote tabulation process at the Ashmins building was derailed by GECOM officials using a spreadsheet whose figures bore no resemblance to the official Statements of Poll (SOPs).

“I remember comparing the number read from Box 4001 to my copy of the SOP, and they didn’t match. I objected immediately and asked the official to repeat it,” she testified. “They were inflating numbers in favour of APNU/AFC (A Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance For Change) and deducting votes from the PPP/C.”

companies are political unrest, especially surrounding elections, and the threat from Venezuela.”

Valuable lessons

Meanwhile, as it relates to elections, she said the US Embassy along with the PSC and international partners, are committed to supporting free and fair elections in Guyana. “We learned valuable lessons from the 2020 elections, and we will apply those lessons this year to help ensure that Guyanese citizens can trust the electoral process,” Theriot said.

As regional tensions intensify and Guyana’s geopolitical and economic profile continues to rise, the Ambassador’s remarks sent a clear and firm message: Guyana is not alone.

“The United States remains committed to a transparent, predictable regulatory environment that welcomes US and international investment. But more importantly, we are committed to Guyana’s peace and sovereignty,” she said. “We are your partner, now and always.”

Applauding US

Also delivering remarks at the annual meeting was

Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh, who reiterated the Guyana Government’s position on deepening relations with the US, especially as it relates to border security.

“I want you to join me in applauding the United States Ambassador to Guyana for her very clear an unequivocal comment. I don’t think that the position could have been conveyed more clearly and I know that I speak for all Guyanese when I say thank you very much for the remarkable support the US has provided to us in so many different dimensions but in particular our sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Dr Singh noted.

The Government has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Guyana’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, while also seeking accountability through diplomatic channels.

Earlier this month, President Dr. Irfaan Ali had reaffirmed that the GDF is mobilised and prepared to defend the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity amid ongoing tensions with Venezuela.

The Head of State emphasised that security operations are actively underway, particularly in light of Venezuela’s upcoming unlawful elections and continued claims over Guyana’s Essequibo region — claims which Guyana has consistently rejected and challenged through international legal avenues.

After years of failed good offices process through the UN, and based on the recommendation of the-then UN Secretary General, Guyana approached the World Court in March 2018, seeking a final and binding settlement of the 1899 Arbitral Award, which determined the land boundary between Guyana and Venezuela.

The case is currently pending before the ICJ, which has already established its jurisdiction to hear the matter. Guyana has already filed two written pleadings on the merits, and Venezuela has filed one, with its second pleading due in August 2025. Oral hearings are expected in the first half of 2026, following which the Court will deliberate on the case and issue its final judgment on the Merits, which will be binding on the parties.

United States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot

Local Government Minister Sonia Parag, who testified on Tuesday in the 2020 election fraud trial

Respecting…

…the First Peoples

The National Toshaos Council (NTC) annual meeting is in full swing and with elections around the corner and them practically holding the swing vote that will determine who will walk away with the big prize and who will sit holding their heads, they’ve been getting that full-court press from the Opposition. Why? Sadly, not because they think our Indigenous Peoples must be at the centre of our national development, but because over the last number of electoral cycles – including this one – the PPP has been doing just that!! So, for the Opposition, it’s once again a case of “too little too late!!

The PPP has accepted from the time of Cheddi Jagan that the Indigenous peoples have suffered the LONGEST since they were the first to be colonised!! Suffered more than any of us who were brought here to labour in the Europeans’ plantations! After all, they suffered the ultimate demonisation when Columbus announced he’d DISCOVERED a new world. Meaning that those who were living here have no consciousness of their humanity – but were as the other animals he’d encountered!!

It wasn’t surprising that within a few decades of Columbus’s “discovery”, 99.999% of them had been wiped out across the ENTIRE West Indies!! That’s right –WIPED OUT!! So we owe a great debt – as inheritors of the European conquest – see that suit and tie? to make amends for that initial genocidal holocaust. What can we do?? Well, at a minimum – as the PPP unlike the PNC has done - is give the Indigenous Peoples all the land to which they’re entitled. Which was stipulated in the Independence Agreement of 1965 – “Annex C”. Then there’s this matter of “development”. While we on the coastland bicker about who’s getting what from the oil revenues, it’s “out of sight, out of mind” where the Indigenous Peoples are concerned. And that’s why some – especially the Opposition – are kvetching that this PPP Government’s working overtime to set that matter right!! The kvetchers obviously feel that the Indigenous Peoples should continue living in thatched mud-houses!! Continuing with ‘development’, the PPP gotta continue with the massive job creation scheme in each interior region that they have launched – so that this embarrassing practice of donating handouts to Indigenous Peoples will cease. That just perpetuate the dependency syndrome that was started by the European colonialists with their beads and baubles!! Take that plywood factory at East Bank, Land of C anaan. Why wasn’t that built by the PNC in Indigenous-dominated Reg 1 from where the wood gotta be transported?? That’s the only way our Indigenous peoples will finally have equitable development!! And end this pattern of exotifying them with their grass skirts and feathered headdresses.

…the Royals show

It suddenly dawned on your Eyewitness that the British Royalty was the first Reality Show in the world – beating by hundreds of years, Donald Trump!! They’d launched social media in the 18th century –- with the pamphlets and press that covered the execution of Marie Antoinette!! The Fourth Estate was as much – if not more – about covering the Royals and the “nobility” than about “the people”!! Ironically, they thought they were cutting back the powers of the former, but overlooked they were given a house of COMMONS!!

Did you realise that Christmas trees became popular in the British Empire because Queen Victoria’s German husband Albert brought it from his little German principality?? And the way the Royals speak is the ultimate in “posh” – to which everyone strains?? And that as radio was invented the King’s message was eagerly awaited across the empire?? And those grainy newsreels then picked up the tradition – as did TV by the age of Diana?? It's all a Reality Show. And is probably why Trump wants to meet Charles!!

…APNU’s chutzpah

What happened to Sarabo-Halley who’d founded the “Guyana Nation Builders Movement (GNBM), Jailall Sharma from the “Equal Rights and Justice Party” (ERJP), and Keith Scott from NFA – who helped form APNU – in the coalition-building sweepstakes?!!

$3M per hinterland village for home upgrades, $1M for sport facilities – VP

…US$124M being invested in just 3 hinterland hospitals …$4B payout earmarked from carbon credit sales

On the second day of the National Toshaos Council (NTC) conference, Vice President (VP) Bharrat Jagdeo addressed Indigenous leaders gathered at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) outlining a series of initiatives the Government plans to roll out in their communities.

This includes the millions of dollars that each community for home upgrades for individual residents. It was announced that a home upgrade subsidy will be rolled out in indigenous communities. According to VP Jagdeo in his address to the Toshaos, this is being done following requests from the villages themselves.

“We’ve had some requests for this. So apart from everything else you’ll be getting this year, I had a discussion with the President earlier today. So, each of these villages will get $3 million to assist people with housing upgrades. So, they’ll be managed by the village councils. So, people need help, they will get the help,” Jagdeo said.

In addition, the Government will be distributing $1 million each year for sporting facilities, allowing villages to develop their sports ground. The VP also

assured indigenous communities that the money they get from the sale of carbon credits, which will total $4 billion this year, will remain untouched, as the Government will still maintain their public infrastructure.

“So far, the first year was US$22.7 million. The second year was US$23.27 million and this year, it will also. Although we have received less this year, we have kept the US$23.27 million to be given to the community. So, in the first year, it was 15 per cent as we agreed,” Jagdeo explained.

The allocation in the second year stood at 26 per cent, largely due to reduced revenue that year. This year, the figure has dropped to approximately 21 per cent, just under 22 per cent, of the available resources. According to VP Bharrat Jagdeo, the Government maintained the level of funding allocated to villages despite this year’s lower receipts.

Notably, these allocations do not include several major investments currently underway. Among them are US$15 million for the construction of solar farms and US$2 million per month to maintain internet hubs across the hinterland. In addition, the Government is in-

jecting US$124 million into hinterland healthcare, which includes the construction of three new hospitals.

“We expanded healthcare enormously. We just awarded three and we’re going to award a fourth contract in the hinterland. In Kato, a hospital for US$27 million. In Moruca, one for US$21 million.”

“And in Lethem, its US$31 million. And when you add the US$15 million to equip the hospital, each of these hospitals, its US$124 million we’re going to be spending in just three hospitals I’m talking about,” the VP added.

The Government has been implementing its ‘steel and cement’ initiative, which was launched at GuyExpo in 2022. The initiative was first developed after meetings that Government had with residents of Laing Avenue, after the cost of upgrading and repairing their homes became one of the chief concerns raised.

This year, Housing and Water Minister, Collin Croal had explained that Government subsidies such as the steel and cement initiative, will continue throughout the year. He had also noted that the Government is implementing home improvement sub-

sidies in areas such as Laing Avenue, Georgetown.

Phase one of the programme targeted 60 families who would receive $250,000 vouchers each, totaling $15 million, to go towards home repairs. The overall goal of the project is to ensure approximately 200 families benefit from it.

When it comes to healthcare and the building of new hospitals, Guyana’s public health sector received a whopping $129.8 billion budgetary allocation, the largest budgetary allocation ever for the sector.

Six regional hospitals are currently under construction and are expected to be com-

pleted by the end of the second quarter of 2025. Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony had announced during the Health Ministry’s yearend press briefing, that the Ministry plans to commission the Lima, De Kinderen, Diamond, Bath, Enmore and Number 75 Regional Hospitals by June 2025.

Toshaos at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on Tuesday

Poverty is a choice now – outgoing PSC Head

…urges Guyanese to grab hold of economic boom

Outgoing Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), Komal Singh during his final address at the Commission’s 33rd Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, challenged the narrative of persistent poverty in the midst of Guyana’s booming economy.

Singh, who led the PSC during a period of historic economic growth, issued a bold public invitation to any Guyanese claiming to be trapped in poverty.

Highlighting that the nation’s growth is not merely fueled by oil revenues but by a broad spectrum of industries ranging from agriculture to forestry, Singh encouraged youths to capitalise on

Guyana’s economic growth.

“Across the length and breadth of Guyana we have seen over the years pockets of videos coming out where people are saying that they are living in poverty. I can understand people living in poverty if there is no opportunity but, in a country, where there is an abundance of opportunity I and I am challenging anybody out there publicly who tell me they’re living in poverty come to me; I’ll take you out of poverty within one to six months,” Singh declared, underscoring the statement with a firm belief that Guyana is brimming with opportunity for those willing to work,” the former Chairman said. Nevertheless, Singh was

quick to note that escaping poverty requires personal drive and a willingness to put in the effort. In fact, he called on Guyanese to remain optimistic and united as the country surges ahead.

“You cannot come out of poverty if you within, don’t want to come out of poverty. There is a wonderful opportunity ahead of us in this country, let us all work towards building our goals and reaching our goals and improving our family life for the betterment of this country,” he added.

Meanwhile, Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh high-

lighted that Guyana has, for the first time in its post-independence history, been rated as having a low risk of debt distress.

This major milestone comes as Guyana continues to expand oil production and build fiscal buffers through the Natural Resource Fund (NRF), which, according to the latest debt sustainability analysis, has already grown large enough to fully cover the country’s external debt.

Dr Singh called on the private sector to seize the moment and invest with confidence, assuring them of continued partnership and policy stability, noting that Government will continue to build a business-friendly climate for pri-

vate sector stakeholders. “You have in this Government, a Government that I believe has demonstrated over the long term, a demonstrated track record of responsible economic management. You have in this Government, a Government that has demonstrated over the long term, a commitment to working with the private sector, to ensuring that we create an environment that is conducive to your investments being made and your businesses growing, earning a rate of return, creating jobs and generating incomes for the Guyanese people,” Singh said.

“Thief, Thief!” – witness recalls hearing on chaotic

Parag was referring specifically to Election Officer, Mitchelle Miller, who she said pressed ahead with tabulating the disputed numbers despite her repeated objections and those of other party agents and international observers. “Every box from 4001 to 4021, I objected to, all of them had numbers that didn’t match the official SOPs,” she said.

Despite the pushback, Miller allegedly continued with the process until Keith Lowenfield, then Chief Elections Officer, entered the room. But rather than halt the flawed tabulation, Parag recounted that Lowenfield insisted the spreadsheet figures were aligned with the SOPs. It was only after the intervention of the Bar Association President, attorney Teni Housty, who cited specific electoral laws, that SOPs were finally brought into use, confirming discrepancies. But the compliance was short-lived.

According to Parag, the process soon slowed to a crawl as GECOM staff complained of fatigue. By the following day, the exercise had come to a complete halt.

Around 11:00h on March 5, then Deputy CEO Roxanne Myers reportedly ordered an evacuation of the Ashmins building citing a bomb threat, an excuse Parag said she found dubious and refused to obey. “I didn’t move. I didn’t believe there was any bomb,” she said firmly.

“Thief, thief” Soon after, in one of the most dramatic moments of her testimony, Parag recalled seeing Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo reappear in the building, allegedly recovered from an earlier bout of illness, only to announce he was ready to make a declaration. She said the room erupted in protest.

“I stood up and said, ‘You cannot do this, Mr. Mingo. The Region Four tabulation exercise is not completed.’”

Despite the objections, Parag said Mingo appeared to continue with the process and soon after, a Form 24 document declaring Region Four results was discovered on the GECOM website. According to her, the declaration bore two signatures and was published despite the vote count being incom-

plete.

“People were shouting ‘thief, thief!’ when he was seen on the third-floor balcony. There was shouting everywhere. The whole place turned chaotic,” she recalled, describing the atmosphere as tense and hostile. “I saw Volda Lawrence heading up the escalator to where Mingo was. It was clear something was being orchestrated.”

The revelation sparked urgent legal action. A Fixed Date Application was filed before Chief Justice Roxanne George, and several injunctions were granted to prevent any further declarations without a proper tabulation. Yet the attempts to bypass procedure allegedly continued.

Parag told the court that the tabulation process was relocated to GECOM’s Kingston Georgetown headquarters on March 13, where the figures were projected onto a bedsheet-, a move she said further undermined the transparency of the process.

“The numbers on the screen were blurred. I couldn’t compare them with the SOPs. It was impossible to verify them…they were

moving very fast,” she testified, noting that objections continued to pour in from PPP/C agents and election observers.

The final straw came with another declaration from Mingo, again made without completing a verifiable count.

These declarations, and the events leading up to them, ultimately triggered a 33-day national recount, which Parag actively participated in. The recount later confirmed that the PPP/C had secured the majority of votes, paving the way

GECOM...

for President Irfaan Ali’s swearing-in in August 2020, five months after the elections.

Meanwhile, Rosalinda Rasul, who served as an election observer for the American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) during the elections, also gave testimony, wrapping up several days on the stand. Rasul, now the Head of the Diaspora Unit at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, corroborated claims that efforts were made to derail the democratic process.

On Tuesday, she was re-

examined by the prosecution after being crossed examined by the defense. The trial involves nine defendants, including former Health Minister Volda Lawrence, former CEO Keith Lowenfield, former RO Clairmont Mingo, and former DCEO Roxanne Myers, all of whom are charged with conspiracy to commit electoral fraud in favour of the APNU/AFC coalition. As proceedings continue, more witnesses are expected to testify.

Outgoing Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), Komal Singh

6 homeless after Corentyne fire

Six persons are now homeless after a fire destroyed their Corentyne home on Monday afternoon. Twenty-two-yearold Nazeema Shivmangal, a Government part-time 10-day worker attached to the Gilbralter-Fryish Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) lived in the two-storey wooden and concrete 3-bedroom building situated at the Lot 2 'D' Fyrish Village, Corentyne, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) home along with her husband and their three children, ages three, seven and eight along with her brother.

According to Shivmangal, she was not at home when the house went up in flames. She said she left work and went to pick up two of her children from school after which they went home.

“The door was locked and I told them not to go in the house but to take clothing from the line. I tell them that I going to the back street to their father and come back.”

She said before she could get to the next street, she encountered a cousin who showed her that fire was coming from a building in the vicinity of her house.

“Before we could meet back, the whole upstairs on fire. Everything for me de-

stroy. All my furniture, everything that I owned; my clothes, my children clothes, my TV, my fridge, my washing machine, my bed…”

An electric bike was also destroyed in the inferno.

The family had been renting the building and moved into it last year.

“I don’t have anywhere to go, I don’t have anything left,” the distraught woman said.

The fire department was

alerted and a unit from the Rose Hall Town Fire Station responded.

“The fire service tried all the best that they could do but the house was very

old and the breeze was blowing so it burn quick,” Shivmangal said.

Meanwhile, Divisional Fire Officer Clive McDonald said the fire was caused by an electrical issue. Nevertheless, persons wishing to make contact with the family, can do so by telephone number 650-4928.

Miner charged for murder of farmer

A24-year-old miner of Bamboo Creek Village, North Pakaraimas, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) has been remanded to prison after he was charged for the murder of a young farmer, who was fatally stabbed during a confrontation earlier this month.

The accused, Denivoudo Luis, also known as “Delon,” appeared virtually at the Diamond Magistrate’s Court where he was read the indictable charge. Luis was not required to plead, and bail was denied. He was remanded to prison until his next court appearance, which is scheduled for August 26.

Luis is accused of murdering 23-year-old Ricky Edwin, a farmer of the same village, on the evening of Tuesday, May 13, during an altercation that stemmed from a dispute involving Edwin’s younger brother.

Investigations revealed that prior to the incident, Edwin and his 20-year-old brother, “Nathan”, who is blind in one eye, were drinking by the roadside when they were approached by Luis, who was reportedly intoxicated at the time. While in their company, Luis allegedly began verbally abusing Nathan, and at one

point removed and broke the young man’s sunglasses.

Seeing his brother being harassed, Edwin reportedly intervened and shoved Luis away. The miner is said to have responded with profanities before leaving the area and heading in the direction of his home, located about half a mile away.

Later that evening, as the Edwin brothers stood in the yard of Nathan’s residence, Luis reportedly returned and reignited the confrontation. During the verbal exchange, Luis is alleged to have pulled a small knife, approximately four inches in length, from his pants pocket and stabbed Edwin three times, once in the middle of his chest, once

in the left side of his abdomen, and once in the buttocks area.

Despite his injuries, Edwin reportedly fled the scene but collapsed a short distance away, where he remained motionless. His brother, in fear for his own safety, ran off to seek help.

The suspect fled the scene shortly after the stabbing, escaping in an unknown direction. The victim’s mother, 46-year-old Bridget Edwin, raised an alarm and alerted the police. When law enforcement arrived, Edwin’s body was discovered lying face down in the yard. He was clad in blue pants and a black vest, both stained with blood. The body was examined by a doctor attached to the Village Health Centre, who pronounced the young farmer dead.

The crime scene was processed by investigators, and the body secured as arrangements were made to transport it to Kato Village for a post-mortem examination.

Police conducted several searches for Luis at his home and in the surrounding village but were initially unable to locate him. He was later apprehended and formally charged with the offence.

Charged: Denivoudo Luis, called "Delon"

The aftermath of the fire

Nazeema Shivmangal

CEO steering company through structural reforms, not "bubbling on the job" – GuySuCo

Amid several challenges affecting the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) and in the face of criticisms levelled against its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Paul Cheong, the company is making it clear its management is actively steering the century-old institution through significant structural reforms while building systems for long-term sustainability.

GuySuCo has defended its CEO Paul Cheong and his management of the organisation, after he was criticised in a recently-published letter to the editor. In a statement on Monday, GuySuCo noted that while the letter at -

tempted to raise a number of concerns about the First Crop performance, it denigrated into a personal at -

tack on Cheong.

Among other things, the letter writer claimed that the CEO misled the public about the finances spent by the organisation. In response, GuySuCo explained that public spending by is subject to audit and parliamentary scrutiny.

As of the close of the First Crop, GuySuCo said it had utilised a portion of its budgetary allocation, but not the exaggerated figure of $9 billion as being reported by the writer. Additionally, GuySuCo explained that its procurement processes undergo oversight and are governed by the National Procurement Act.

GuySuCo also noted that like many agricultural enterprises globally, it is grappling with declining labour availability. The sugar company remarked that this is not a new issue, and certainly not of Cheong's doing.

In light of these challenges the Corporation has embarked on mechanisation, not only to fill the labour gap but to improve cost-efficiency over time. Moreover, GuySuCo revealed that allegations of inflated private contractors' payments are also totally unfounded.

In response to the claims made about the CEO Performance and Marketing, GuySuCo not -

ed that it is easy to oversimplify GuySuCo's marketing challenges without understanding today's global sugar market dynamics.

It explained that the current average price earned by the Corporation is significantly greater than the price quoted by the writer. Under the astute leadership of Cheong, the Corporation has commenced the diversification of revenue, improve packaging, branding, and market access to reposition Guyana's sugar.

Moreover, addressing the issue about the organisation’s production, the state-owned company said it is undisputed that GuySuCo's First Crop production stands at 15,980 tonnes but this must be analysed in the context of the prevailing circumstances and not be attributed to lack of leadership by the CEO.

GuySuCo said heavy

Child

and persistent rainfall has severely negatively impacted the harvesting schedule, factory efficiency, and field access. GuySuCo stressed that this isn't "playing politics" but a reality that increasingly erratic climatic conditions are negatively affecting agricultural operations globally.

Nevertheless, the Corporation said it is strategically planning for the commencement of the Second Crop by reviewing timelines, field operations, and logistics to recover as much as possible from the canes that will be carried over.

In this regard, GuySuCo made it clear that its CEO is not "bubbling on the job", but rather, he is steering a century-old institution through structural reform, increasing climate uncertainty, and labour shortages, while building systems for long-term sustainability.

sex offender jailed in US after fleeing to Guyana in 2022

Aman will be behind bars for the foreseeable future after he pleaded guilty to Sexual Assault on a Child by One in a Position of Trust.

The El Paso County Sheriff's Office reported that justice was served in a case dating back to 2020, thanks to a multi-agency effort that crossed international borders. In 2020, detectives with the Special Victims Unit (SVU) began investigating reports of sex crimes against a child in unincorporated El Paso County.

Following a two-year investigation, in April of 2022, probable cause was developed to arrest Bobby Allen Stark, 49, on the following charges: sexual assault on a child; retaliation against a witness or victim; intimidation of a witness or victim; bribing a witness or victim; multiple counts of child abuse.

On April 30, 2022, Stark was taken into custody, where he was held without bail in the El Paso County Jail. Following his first court appearance, a bond of $25,000 was set for his release. Just days later, Stark posted bail on May 2, 2022, and fled the United States (US).

The trail went cold for months until a tip that Stark may be in Guyana, South America, was received. The Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) Criminal Investigations Department (CID) took Stark into custody on May 12, 2023, with the assistance of the Office of the Director of

Public Prosecutions (DPP) in Guyana, the US Diplomatic Security Service (DSS), and the United States Marshals Service (USMS). Stark was sentenced to 10 years to life in prison with the Colorado Department of Corrections following his pleas. During the sheriff's office investigation, they learned Stark had adopted a girl child and subjected her to repeated sexual abuse and threats involving a firearm. After it was brought forward, the child was removed from him via a court order. Following this, Stark tried to kidnap the girl to "be his wife".

“This case underscores the critical importance of law enforcement agencies working together with our federal and international partners to bring child predators to justice,” said El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal regarding the case. “This individual shattered the innocence of a child and should never have had the chance to leave jail, much less continue trying to manipulate and reach his victim.

Bobby Allen Stark

Guyana Sugar Corporation Chief Executive Officer Paul Cheong

Ramsammy’s Ruminations

Confessing its rigging history might liberate the PNC and its leaders

The General Secretary of the PPP and Guyana’s Vice President (VP), Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, updated Guyanese on the success of the PPP’s WhatsApp where citizens could submit recommendations for inclusion in the PPP’s Election 2025 manifesto. Thousands of Guyanese have submitted recommendations and the PPP has kept the facility open for further recommendations. While awaiting further submissions, the PPP has begun the sorting and processing of the recommendations. The GS has indicated that many thoughtful recommendations have been made.

While the PPP has routinely consulted with citizens in face-toface encounters to hear their views and reflect some of these in their previous manifestos and development plans, the WhatsApp instrument for citizens to provide their suggestions represented an innovation that permits thousands of citizens to be engaged. The novel idea has attracted attention and general commendation in Guyana and in the Guyanese Diaspora across the world. But it has also attracted commendation among citizens of other countries. One can expect to see the WhatsApp version or similar initiatives duplicated among political parties in other countries in elections coming up.

The Leader of the Opposition PNC announced this week that the PNC will establish a WhatsApp number for citizens to send in their recommendations for the PNC’s Election 2025 manifesto. In so doing, the PNC leader has chosen to imitate the PPP. While it is a PPP idea, the PPP does not own this as a propriety right. Therefore, the PNC is free to utilise this novel idea.

It is good to see that the PNC’s leader has recognised that the PPP has given birth to a fantastic idea, one worthy of unconditional recognition and one worthy of emulation. Of course, the PNC leader failed to acknowledge that he and his party have “stolen” an idea from the PPP. He announced this pathway as if it is entirely his and his party’s idea.

Aubrey Norton, in fact, failed to realise that had he given credit to the PPP he would have gained goodwill, not just from the PPP, but also from citizens who would have recognised the maturity in conceding that the PPP gave birth to a great idea that they were willing to unconditionally acknowledge.

The VP had his own recommendations for Norton, including that PNC acknowledges the PNC’s history of rigging elections, the PNC’s brazen attempt to thief Elections 2020, and for the PNC to finally release its copies of Elections 2020 SOPs. These are not petty suggestions to Aubrey Norton. These are actions that might liberate the PNC and liberate Norton himself.

There must be smart people in and around the PNC. When will it occur to them that their history of rigging elections is not a secret? Their own supporters know this history and, in private, many of their supporters admit this. Their brazen attempt to thief Elections 2020 in the plain view of the world is well-known. The leaders of the PNC and the AFC know that the people of Guyana, including the vast majority of their own supporters, know the truth. This must sit on their chest as a psychological scar, like an albatross that gets heavier and tighter around their necks. Admitting this, as VP Bharrat Jagdeo suggests, might well liberate the leaders of the PNC.

In this regard, it is amusing and disgraceful at the same time that the PNC MP Annette Ferguson, who criminally tried to remove the parliamentary Mace, who was an important player in the brazen attempt to thief Elections 2020, and who clearly is trying to find relevance attacked Bharrat Jagdeo for calling the Guyanese people “stupid”. But Bharrat Jagdeo never called the Guyanese people “stupid”. The VP, indeed, mused aloud that the handful of people who “buy” the lies and misrepresentation of the Opposition and their surrogates must be stupid. At no point did the VP referred to the Guyanese people as “stupid”. He was referring to the handful who knowing the truth still “buys” the lies and misrepresentation. When the PNC, the AFC and their surrogates tried to get the general public to “buy” the lie that a violent protest which the Opposition were very much a part of was as a result of PPP-sponsored “thugs”, those handful that actually took the bait had to be stupid. The alternative is that they were part of the conspiracy. Bharrat Jagdeo was making an argument supported by facts.

Annette Ferguson, however, is hypocritical. She accused the VP of calling people “scrapes”. But Annette Ferguson herself was part of a press conference held in Tuschen at the scene where 11-year-old Adriana died where several leaders of the PNC, AFC and others profess their support for the “scrapes”.

The truth is that Election 2025 is nearly here. In a few months it will be elections in Guyana. We know this not only because elections are constitutionally due by December 1, 2025, but because the President and VP have repeatedly stated that Election 2025 will be held as constitutionally mandated. But there is one other sure sign that election season is here. The Opposition is using every single opportunity to create mayhem.

The protest associated with the death of Adiana Younge is not one genuinely stirred by the call for justice. While there are many Guyanese who want answers, the Opposition and their surrogates clearly hijacked the child’s death for political mischief. But we saw several incidents in the same geographical area of Georgetown that signal a new wave of violence in Guyana. The bomb attack on the police station, the bomb attack on a GPL facility and the setting of a community centre on fire, all in the same area, all about the same time, defy coincidence. It clearly gives rise to suspicion that an organised plan to create mayhem is afoot. Buckle up, the only thing that the PNC knows well to do – rig elections and create violent chaos.

Dr Leslie Ramsammy

Bandits agree to repay $600,000 to Chinese supermarket after robbery

…ordered to apologise, undergo counselling

Two robbers, who admitted to holding a Chinese supermarket owner at gunpoint and robbing the supermarket were on Monday granted bail by Berbice Magistrate, Michelle Matthias.

The incident was committed on April 9, at Sweet Life Supermarket of D’Edward Village, West Bank Berbice (WBB) Region Five (MahaicaBerbice).

Cleveland Sears, a 24-yearold construction worker from South Ruimveldt Park, Georgetown, and a 17-yearold, committed the robbery.

On April 14, they pleaded guilty to the charge and were remanded to prison - Sears to prison and the teenager to a juvenile holding centre.

The duo, who were unrepresented, pleaded guilty to the charge.

The teen and Sears, while being armed with a firearm and a knife, robbed the Sweet Life Supermarket owned by a Chinese national.

The court was told that on the evening of the rob-

bery, around 21:12h, as the supermarket was closing, two masked men, armed with a gun and a knife, stormed in, demanding cash. They made off with $500,000 in cash and $400,000 worth of phone cards.

Following the incident, the matter was reported, and the crime scene was examined. CCTV footage led to the arrest of the two, who were confronted with the evidence and subsequently reportedly confessed during video and audio interviews. Police were able to recover $7,800 along with clothing that matched what was seen in the CCTV footage.

Sears claimed that it was a toy gun that was being used and told investigators that as they were passing the supermarket, the teen said they could make some quick money

if they went into that supermarket.

The Magistrate had ordered probation reports on both robbers and asked that they return to court on May 19 for sentencing.

Troubled lives

The probation reports revealed that both robbers had troubled lives with Sears completing high school and dropping out of a tertiary institution but was able to complete an information technology course while the teenager who dropped out of school at the age of 15, frequently stole from family members and dismissed from a lemonade factory for stealing money from his employer.

It was recommended that both defendants benefit from professional counselling and that the teenager be reintegrated into the school system.

Following the presentation of the probation re-

ports, Attorney at law Ronald Daniels, who represented Sears, and Attorney at law Kevin Morgan, who represented the teen, mitigated for restitution with Daniels saying that his client was willing to pay $500,000 to the virtual complaint.

However, the Chinese national said he would be willing to settle for $900,000.

It was eventually agreed that he would accept compensation of $600,000.

Magistrate Matthias offered some guidance and warning to both defendants,

who both apologised to Bin Boa Que, the supermarket owner.

However, the Magistrate said they also need to apologise to family members when they can do so. She ordered that they both be released on their own recognisance but must be a part of the counselling programme which will be conducted by the Human Services and Social Services Ministry.

They will have to return to court on June 27 for an update on their counselling sessions and restitution.

Amerindians have key roles in land titling, revision of Amerindian Act - Sukhai …own 16.4% of Guyana’s landmass

The Government has assured that Indigenous communities will play leading roles in the land titling process, with the National Toshaos Council (NTC) represented on the oversight committee.

Speaking on the opening day of the NTC 2025 Conference, Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai underscored the administration’s commitment to land rights. She emphasised that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government takes the rights of Indigenous populations seriously. Notably, the NTC holds a seat on the Oversight Committee for Land Titling, as well as on the Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030 (LCDS 2030) MultiStakeholder Committee.

“Land Rights have always been a priority for the People's Progressive Party's Civic Government. While some unscrupulous person may attempt to mislead the indigenous population on this issue, I remind you that both NGOs (Non-Government Organisations) and the NTC are represented on the Oversight Committee for Land Titling and on the LCDS 2030, the Multi-Stakeholder Committee,” Sukhai said.

Sukhai also revealed that at present, Amerindians own 16.4 per cent of Guyana’s land mass, making them the second largest private land owners in the country. She also assured that the ongoing review of the Amerindian Act of 2006 will be very inclusive and ensure that fair consent is applied.

“Our Government continues to actively engage in the land titling and demarcation processes. Amerindians also account for 10 per cent of our

population currently owning 16.4 per cent of Guyana land mass, being the second largest private land owner in our country.”

“These goals are rooted in the Amerindian Act of 2006, which we are currently reviewing. The review process has been inclusive and transparent, founded on free and fair consent and broad stakeholder engagements,” the Minister added.

In this year’s budget, a sum of $7.2 billion had been set aside to enhance welfare of Amerindian communities. Of this, $150 million was budgeted in 2025 to support the NTC conference that is being held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC)… an increase from the $136.5 million spent last year for the same purpose.

As part of the PPP/C Administration’s commitment towards the recognition and protection of the collective rights of Amerindian Villages and Communities, this year’s budget also allocated over $80 million for the revision of the 2006 Amerindian Act. In its manifesto in the 2020 General and Regional Elections, it

had promised a review of the Amerindian Act after a process of extensive public consultations.

The Amerindian Act of 2006 is the primary legislation that governs the affairs of the Amerindian peoples of Guyana. It provides for the recognition, and protection of collective rights of Amerindian villages and communities in Guyana and the promotion of good governance.

When it comes to land rights for Indigenous populations, the Government had invested US$900,000 in the Amerindian Land Titling (ALT) project in 2024, underscoring its commitment to addressing historical land tenure issues and promoting indigenous rights. The expenditure formed part of the Amerindian Affairs Ministry’s $800 million budgetary allocation for that year. Between 2020 and 2024 alone, more than 21 land titles were issued. In 2024, the Government issued two certificates of title, granted six absolute land grants, and successfully conducted seven demarcation exercises.

The Chinese supermarket that was robbed

Charged: Cleveland Sears

Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai (centre) and cultural program participants

Court of Appeal gets 7 new Judges

President Dr Irfaan

Ali will today swear in five of the seven new Appeal Court judges to improve the efficiency of the court system.

This was announced by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) on Tuesday.

Those persons are Justice Jo-Ann Barlow, Justice Navindra Singh, Justice Nareshwar Harnanan, Justice Priya

Master accurate

Sewnarine-Beharry, Mrs. Joycelin Kyte-Thomas, Justice Damone Younge and Rafiq Khan, SC.

According to the JSC, “due to the exigencies of office and the need to address outstanding matters, two of those persons will be taking the oath of office at a later date.” They are Justice Younge and Khan.

These appointments follow recent updates to the Court of Appeal Act to in-

crease the complement of judges sitting in that court from nine to eleven.

Three judges preside over a case at the Appeal Court at any given time. Therefore, the complement of eleven, allows for two extra Judges to be available when one Judge is out of the jurisdiction or unavailable for some reason.

The Court of Appeal also recently benefitted from an extension to its cur-

measurements before entering workforce – GNBS urges TVET students

In observance of World Metrology Day on Tuesday, several technical students from across the country gathered at the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) Headquarters in Georgetown for a training session.

This year’s World Metrology Day is themed “Measurements for all times, for all people.”

At the training session, Head of Corporate Communication at GNBS, Lloyd David, emphasised that technical students must be able to measure accurately upon leaving school.

“It’s very important because, eventually, on a dayto-day basis, whether you are at school or on the job, you will be involved in measurements in some way—whether you're doing plumbing, woodworking, or electrical work, all of it requires measurements,” he explained.

He added “What we want is for you to be able to measure correctly when you leave the technical institute and go to work.”

According to Lloyd, students must be able to satisfy their customers, stating that providing accurate work leads to more opportunities and repeat clients.

“It’s not ideal to shortchange them [clients] with incorrect measurements. That can cause defects and problems in the work you do for your clients,” Lloyd said.

Meanwhile, Head of Metrology at GNBS, Shailendra Rai, highlighted the importance of the metric system in Guyana.

“Similarly, with Transport and the Harbour Bridge, they weigh the

trucks before they cross because there's a weight limitation. In the health sector, measurement is also critical. When we go to the doctor, they check our body mass, blood pressure, and other indicators to make diagnoses and provide treatment. Now imagine if those instruments are inaccurate—what would be the consequence of an incorrect weight or pressure reading?” he asked.

Rai encouraged students to be aware of measurements in their everyday lives.

“Everything you do involves measurement. For example, when you go to the shop to buy something, check the weight to ensure you're getting the correct amount.

When you're at the gas station, check that you're receiving the right volume of fuel.

Measurements are a part of everything you need,” he urged.

He also pointed out that instruments used by the Guyana Police Force (GPF), such as speed guns and breathalysers, are verified by the Bureau of Standards to ensure accuracy.

“Similarly, the gas sta-

tion, the bulk terminals, the health centres, the hospitals, and so they are required to have their devices verified. If these devices are not verified, we, according to the Waste and Measure Act, we have the power to seize and remove these devices, right?

The Bureau of Standards, we play a critical role in terms of law enforcement…. The speed guns and the breathalysers that are used by the Guyana Police Force, they are verified by the Bureau of Standards to ensure accurate results because these results are used in court to prosecute defaulters.”

He added that these results are used in court to prosecute defaulters, and thus persons must ensure that the instruments are verified and accurate in order to provide credible results.

Celebrated annually on May 20, World Metrology Day highlights the critical role of measurement science in our daily lives. From GPS navigation and medical dosing to construction safety, metrology ensures consistency, accuracy, and reliability across the globe.

rent building at Kingston, Georgetown to prepare for these appointments.

During his weekly programme “Issues in the News” on Tuesday evening, Attorney General Anil Nandlall said that while the backlog of court cases was addressed in the High Court, “the backlog seemed to have now moved to the

Court of Appeal because we had very few judges to begin with in that court, and then there were vacancies.”

Nandlall explained that “you can have different sittings of the court at the same time because we now have an extended building. The building previously can only accommodate one sitting at a time."

He expressed hope that these appointments can clear the backlog in the system. He noted that while the backlog of court cases was addressed in the High Court, “the backlog seemed to have now moved to the Court of Appeal because we had very few judges to begin with in that court.”

Head of Corporate Communications, GNBS – Lloyd David

Justice Joanne Barlow Justice Kim Kyte-Thomas Justice Nareshwar Harnanan

Justice Navindra Singh

Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry

Justice Damone Younge

Justice of Appeal

Rafiq Khan

Think about what you want and can do to get ahead. Participate in functions that can put you in contact with people who can provide insight into unique ways to put your attributes to good use.

Stick close to home and revise your routine to make your life less confusing or cumbersome. Use your energy to enforce positive financial change. Refuse to let outside influences interfere with your peace of mind.

Take the stage, express your views and listen to the response you get. Putting yourself out there will give you a sense of whether you are on the right track. Personal growth will unfold.

Gather as much information as possible and thoroughly analyze what you discover. Understanding the problems and needs of others will help you know what you can do to improve things and find a valuable niche.

Stand up and do something that makes you proud. Broaden your awareness, learn from the best and help people. Spend your downtime with a loved one, and you will enhance your relationship.

Rethink your situation. Don't stifle your emotions when you must face your feelings to get past what stands in your way. Reach out for help if you need it. Focus on new beginnings.

Reflect on what you want to turn into a reality. Expand your interests, scout out new prospects and team up with people who understand you and what you want. Refuse to let emotions get in your way.

Outside interests will take your mind off your worries and give you a break. Distancing yourself from people who confuse you will allow you time to figure out what you want and need.

Protect what matters most to you. Update your image or surroundings to fit what you are trying to achieve. It's up to you to take responsibility and create opportunities instead of waiting for them to come to you.

You'll face opposition if you are too demanding or unaccommodating. Put more thought and energy into partnerships, equality and shared expenses. Balance the budget and divvy up duties fairly.

You know the drill, so do your part. What you achieve will give you the confidence you need to do or try something you've been reluctant to pursue. Make your move and find out where you stand.

Pare down. Rid yourself of what you no longer use. Be true to yourself and the people you love. Reevaluate your situation and change what isn't working for you.

Madhwal leads bowlers' show as RR end the season by beating CSK

Despite losing eight matches chasing out of nine, Rajasthan Royals (RR) decided to chase one last time and came out victors with 17 balls to spare. Unlike earlier games, though, their bowlers did well against fellow laggards Chennai Super Kings (CSK), leaving them just 188 to chase on a good batting pitch. Akash Madhwal reversed the ball to restrict CSK in the end to just 17 runs off the last three overs, and Vaibhav Suryavanshi then aced the chase with a measured 57 off 33 deliveries.

R Ashwin took two wickets in the 14th over to remind observers of RR's poor chasing record, but it proved to be nothing more than a stutter. Dhruv Jurel made sure it never got close with a sparkling 31 from 12 balls. The unbeaten batters at the wicket were Jurel and Shimron Hetmyer, who have been in the middle in some of the past fluffed chases.

As a result of the win, RR were momentarily off the bottom of the table, but their season was done. CSK were left needing a big win in their last

explained. CSK lost five wickets in 7.4 overs to length balls that did not swing or seam. They were not off-pace deliveries either. Of these, one was not even an attacking shot. It was just one of those days when the risks were not coming off, and Yudhvir Singh ended with a haul of three wickets.

For a while in between, the risks did come off for a 56-run stand between Ayush Mhatre and the new number four, Ashwin. Mhatre scored 43 off 20 balls, mostly just clearing the infield for eight fours and one six. This meant CSK were going at over 10 runs an over even though they lost five early wickets.

Brevis continues to impress

The second half of CSK's season has been all about identifying a core for the next Indian Premier League (IPL). Two triumphs in that regard have been their replacement batters, Mhatre and Dewald Brevis. Both shone in Delhi. Brevis scored 42 off 25 deliveries as he and Shivam Dube added 59 runs for the sixth wicket.

ed bowling as late as the 12th over and went for 10 runs in his first two balls, quickly realised that the ball was ready for reverse swing, and started going for the yorker.

In his four overs, Madhwal nailed at least eight of them to go with plenty of low full tosses that were difficult to get away. The one that got Brevis off the inside edge was a half volley, but it did tail away, thus causing the mishit.

Dube, meanwhile, took care of the spin threat that was reserved for MS Dhoni,

or two thanks to their bowlers and the quick start provid - ed by Jaiswal. did not take

match to avoid finishing at the bottom for the first time in their history.

CSK lose early wickets

The start of the game was action-packed, but not easily

of 10 till the 17th over. But Madhwal and Tushar Deshpande were excellent in the last three overs. For once the RR batters were not going to have to chase an above-par total.

Jaiswal gets RR a flying start

Suryavanshi long, though. He hit six, four and four in Noor Ahmad's first over, and took sixes in Ravindra Jadeja's first.

The reverse curse

In three of their five tight losses, RR have had to contend with the reversing ball. This time, though, they got the ball reversing themselves. Madhwal, who start-

The target this time was exactly what RR scored to tie the game against Delhi Capitals at the same venue, but this was a better batting pitch. For the 13th time in the IPL, Yashasvi Jaiswal hit the first legal delivery of the innings for a boundary – a record. This one, though, came off the glove in an over that he hardly middled the ball. By the time he started his second over, though, Khaleel Ahmed had lost the movement, and Jaiswal raced away to 36 off 19 balls.

Suryavanshi, Samson assured in chase

This time, Suryavanshi and Sanju Samson had the opportunity to get a sighter

The one spinner that Suryavanshi could not hit was negotiated by Samson. He hit a six in each of former team-mate Ashwin's overs to make sure RR stayed ahead of the asking rate.

Jurel overcomes jitters

By the time Ashwin gave CSK a glimmer of hope, getting the better of former Captain Samson and Suryavanshi in the 14th over, the ask had already come down to 50 runs. Suryavanshi had again dazzled the observers, this time with his measured approach to go with his hitting prowess.

Jurel, though, did not let CSK consolidate their gains. He hit Jadeja for a six and a four, Noor for a four, and then Ashwin for a six. In perfect symmetry, it was an 18run Ashwin over that end-

Mhatre c Maphaka

b Deshpande 43

Devon Conway c Parag

b Yudhvir Singh 10

Urvil Patel c Maphaka

b Yudhvir Singh 0 Ravichandran Ashwin c Hetmyer

b Hasaranga 13

Ravindra Jadeja c Jurel

b Yudhvir Singh 1

Dewald Brevis

b Madhwal 42

Shivam Dube c Jaiswal

b Madhwal 39

MS Dhoni (c)†c Deshpande

b Madhwal 16

Anshul Kamboj not out 5

Noor Ahmad not out 2

Extras (lb 3, nb 1, w 12) 16

Total 20 Ov (RR: 9.35) 187/8

Fall of wickets: 1-12 (Devon Conway, 1.4 ov), 2-12 (Urvil Patel, 1.6 ov), 3-68 (Ayush Mhatre, 5.5 ov), 4-70 (Ravichandran Ashwin, 6.3 ov), 5-78 (Ravindra Jadeja, 7.4 ov), 6-137 (Dewald Brevis, 13.4 ov), 7-180 (Shivam Dube, 19.1 ov), 8-185 (MS Dhoni, 19.5 ov) Bowling O-M-R-W Tushar Deshpande 4-0-33-1 Yudhvir Singh 4-0-47-3

Rajasthan Royals finish their season on a high

Dewald Brevis scored 42 off 25 deliveries

Winning moment

Vaibhav Suryavanshi hits a half-century

SuperBet back in support of Kares One Guyana T10

SuperBet Guyana has reaffirmed its commitment to community cricket, supporting the third edition of the Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast.

The popular tapeball tournament is set to 'blast off' on June 28 in Berbice.

In a Tuesday presentation to organisers FL Sport, SuperBet solidified its position as a key partner by securing title rights for the live stream of select matches. Representatives from SuperBet expressed their delight in continuing to support the tournament, highlighting its reach into communities and families.

They emphasised the tournament's "bottom-up approach" to fostering cricket development in a fun and innovative manner.

Beyond their corporate social responsibility, the company’s reps noted their consistent impression of the tournament's quality over the past two seasons.

John Ramsingh of FL Sport expressed his gratitude to SuperBet Guyana for its continued support and acknowledged the product's immense value to all corporate partners.

Ramsingh further elaborated on the tournament's expanded reach, noting that its spread across all counties, divided into four zones, will guarantee a massive audience both in person and through online platforms.

Meanwhile, registration for the third edition is underway, and based on the enthusiastic response, FL Sport anticipates reaching its target of 80 participating teams soon.

The registration fee is $30,000.

Prospective teams and individuals seeking further information can contact Akeem Greene via WhatsApp at +5926352235 or visit the tournament’s official social media pages under “One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast.”

The tournament is

poised to unfold across the country throughout June and July, culminating in the grand finals at the National Stadium, Providence, on Sunday, August 3.

Tournament schedule:

Berbice Zone: June 2829

East Bank/West Demerara Zone: July 5-6

Georgetown/East Coast Demerara Zone: July 19-20

Essequibo Zone: July 2627

The team limit for each zone, except for the Georgetown/East Coast Demerara zone, is 16.

Some zones may be extended beyond 16.

The Georgetown/East Coast Demerara zone can accommodate up to 32 teams.

The Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast boasts a lucrative prize structure to reward zonal success and national championship aspirations.

The winning team from each zone will pocket $300,000 and earn auto-

matic qualification for the national finals.

The ultimate national champion will be awarded a staggering $1.7 million, while the national runners-up will receive $700,000.

The two losing semi-finalists will each receive $300,000, and the losing finalists at the zonal level will also receive $100,000

each. Individual player performances are also significantly incentivised with attractive cash prizes and awards:

The Most Valuable Player (MVP) will receive $150,000 and a motorcycle.

Prizes of $100,000 are designated for the players with the Most Runs and Most Wickets.

Parris pays it forward with clinic for Regma Primary girls

Several primary school girls recently benefited from a golden opportunity when West Virginia State University basketball player, 21-year-old Latisha Parris last Friday afternoon conducted an introductory basketball clinic.

The interactive clinic attracted 20 pupils from the Regma Primary School at the Retrieve Hard Court in the mining town of Linden.

Parris, whose parents Lennox and Sadina Parris are from Linden, was born in the United States and has been visiting Guyana

to the sport of basketball, in the hometown of her parents.

As such, Parris related, “I was coming to Guyana since I was five years old. So, I always wanted to give back, to just teach them the basics, to expand the sport of basketball. While I know it is not as popular as it is in the United States, as it is here in Guyana, I felt committed to help.”

Assisting Parris was founder of the Abdulla Hamid Basketball

Guyana.

In describing the twohour clinic, Hamid stated, “Today’s session was the beginning of the first, which we hope it can continue every year, annually for young women in Linden. Maybe, we can see professional players birthed from this programme and to me it’s a good initiative.”

The Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) Education Department was represented by one of its education officials, Dawn

McCammon-Barker, who currently is President of the Linden Amateur Basketball Association (LABA), and she said, “The LABA and Department of Education are extremely grateful for this initiative. Normally, such clinics are done without any emphasis on our females, but this was one that targeted our girls and this being for our primary girls is most commendable.”

According to Parris parents Lennox and Sadina, this is expected to be an annual basketball programme to assist the sport in the bauxite mining community.

The Guyana Blind Cricket Association (GuyBCA) has selected its national blind cricket team to represent the Land of Many Waters at the upcoming 11th Regional Blind Cricket Tournament, scheduled to be hosted in Barbados. The tournament is scheduled for May 21st to May 28th, 2025.

According to a missive from GuyBCA, the national team will participate in a 40-over, round-robin competition and a T20 championship. GuyBCA sought to express its sincerest gratitude to all the companies and individuals who contributed to facilitate the team’s participation in the tournament. The organisation also thanked the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport (MCYS) for its support.

The Player of the Final at the national level will earn $75,000.

A prize of $35,000 will go to the Super Striker and the player with the Best Economy rate. Some of these impressive prizes will also include custom-made trophies and televisions, adding to the prestige of individual achievements.

GuyBCA names team for regional tournament

The team will be coached by Travis Mohamed and managed by Mahendra Algu.

The squad of 17 will be led by Kevin Douglas, experienced West Indies blind cricketer. The team also include other experienced West Indies blind cricketers Ganesh Singh and Leroy Phillips. Also in the squad are West Indies female blind cricketers Rosemarie Ramitt, Robecka Edinboro, Ackila Smith, and Crystal Aulder.

Shaniyah English will be the physiotherapist.

The full squad reads: Captain Kevin Douglas, Ganesh Singh, Leroy Phillips, Anthony Robinson, Roell Sumner, Musa Haynes, Robecka Edinboro, Rosemarie Ramitt, Crystal Aulder, Ackila Smith, Robindra Ramnauth, Patrick Howard, Seon Mitchell, Teshawn Rodney,

Asif Khan, Dimitry Waldron, and Joshua Augustin.

Management Team

Travis Mohamed – Coach

Mahendra Algu –

Manager

Shaniyah English –Physiotherapist

since she was five. She has always wanted to give back

Foundation, Abdulla “Zico” Hamid, who is a past na-

tional player and coach of

John Ramsingh (left) of FL Sport and Joshua Hussain, Marketing Representative for SuperBet Guyana

Latisha Parris

A glimpse of the basketball clinic hosted by Latisha Parris

Guyana’s blind cricketers will be back in action soon

ExxonMobil GSL tickets on sale next week; entertainment boost expected

There will be lots to rave about during this year’s edition of the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) T20 as the tournament’s entertainment factor gets bigger and better.

But first, fans will want

cash in on what’s in store for the tournament’s second edition.

GSL T20 Director Jamie Stewart revealed that tickets for the event would go on sale next Tuesday, and remain as affordable as they were for the inaugural edition.

to ensure they secure their spots at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) to

“Tickets are of tremendous value, they’re going on sale Tuesday 27th, next Tuesday after all the fun of the week-

Republic Bank CPL…

end is over. You’re getting fantastic cricket, World’s T20 champion cricket teams, part-

forward to you all coming,” Stewart disclosed on Tuesday morning.

nering with Soca artistes from Guyana and around the Region, it’s going to be a super cricket party and we look

He further highlighted, “Cheapest ticket is only $500 GYD, most expensive ticket is $5000 GYD. So, it’s tre-

Rutherford to Royals; Holder, Athanaze to Patriots in 1st trade

The Barbados Royals have secured the services of Sherfane Rutherford for the 2025 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL), in a move that will see Jason Holder joining the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots.

The two sides have also agreed for Alick Athanaze to move from the Royals to the Patriots for the 2025 season, the CPL revealed on Tuesday.

Rutherford, a dynamic middle-order batter and powerful striker, will be turning out for his third CPL franchise, having previously represented the Guyana Amazon Warriors

mount a strong campaign in 2025.

In a landmark move, Holder departs his home franchise after a remark able run with the Barbados-based team since the league’s in augural season in 2013 and having been part of championship wins with the Royals in 2014 and 2019. The transfer marks the end of an era for Holder, who has been a consistent leader and key figure for the Royals for over a de cade.

Athanaze will be join ing the Patriots as part of these transfer moves. Athanaze was one of the

and the Patriots. His addition brings further firepower to the Royals’ batting line-up as they look to

mendous value, all that en tertainment and we hope to see everyone at the box office and at the games come July.”

During a slew of major announce ments on Tuesday, Stewart also di vulged that sever al super concerts will com plement the GSL T20 games, especially those featuring the Guyana Amazon Warriors.

The GSL Director announced, “We’ve got a series of super concerts coming with some of the biggest regional acts in Soca paired with the biggest stars of Guyana music. These concerts will happen at half time. So, the price of one ticket will get the champion teams of T20 from around the world, some of the best Soca artistes from around the Region and in Guyana, all for the price of one ticket.

“We’re partnering with Hits and Jams on that, so, as you know this weekend they’re bringing the party to Guyana and they’re going to be helping bring the party around GSL.”

“The concerts are for the Amazon Warriors games and the final. So, there’ll be an opening and a closing concert and every Amazon Warriors evening match, there’ll be a concert,” Stewart further clarified.

The ExxonMobil Guyana GSL T20 will run from July 10-18, featuring five exciting T20 franchises from around the world. Bangladesh’s Rangpur Riders will return to defend their title, and will be challenged by the Guyana Amazon Warriors, Australia’s Hobart Hurricanes, New Zealand’s Central Stags, and the Dubai Capitals.

Guyana’s girls to compete in Tier II of CFU Challenge series

The Caribbean Football Union (CFU) on Monday announced the grouping and format for the 2025 CFU U14 Challenge Series Girls, which will be hosted in Trinidad and Tobago from August 15-24.

According to the groupings, Guyana’s U14 Girls will compete in Group C of Tier II alongside four other teams.

Athanaze’s addition adds depth and versatility to the Patriots’ squad as they continue to build for

As per CPL regulations, teams are permitted to negotiate trades and transfers ahead of the official draft, which is set to take place next month.

The 2025 Republic Bank CPL will run from August 14 to September 21, with matches scheduled across six Caribbean nations: Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago.

Twenty-three Member Associations will participate in the girls’ edition of the competition, with eight teams competing in Tier I and 15 in Tier II. Tier I will consist of two groups of four teams each. Tier II will have three groups consisting of five teams each.

Tier I

Group A: Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Bermuda, Martinique

Group B: Aruba, Haiti, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago

The Tier I group stage will see teams compete in a round-robin format. At the end of the group stage, group winners and runners-up will advance to the semi-finals and then to the Tier I finals, which will be played on August 24, 2024.

Third-place finishers will play one play-off match against each other to determine the fifth and sixth place ranking, and the fourth-place finishers will play one play-off match against each other to determine the seventh and eighth place ranking.

Tier II

Group A: St Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, Bonaire, US Virgin Islands, and St Lucia.

Group B: Grenada, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, French Guiana, and Suriname.

Group C: Cayman Islands, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Turks and Caicos Islands, and Guyana.

Teams in each group will play each other once in a round-robin format, with the three group winners advancing to the Tier II semi-final. The second-place team with the highest number of points among the three groups will join the group winners in the Tier II semi-final.

The group winner with the highest number of points will face off against the best second-place team in the first semi-final, while the second and third-best group winners will compete in the second semi-final.

Tier II will kick off on August 15, while action in

Tier I will begin one day later on August 16.

Further details regarding the official schedule will be confirmed at a later stage.

About the CFU U14 Challenge Series Introduced in 2018, the CFU U14 Challenge Series is a holistic developmental competition that caters to boys and girls in alternating years. It is the introduction to international competition for players. It aligns with the CFU’s developmental agenda and FIFA’s focus on further developing grassroots football in the region. The Challenge Series is also pivotal to the CFU’s Next Generation Referee Course. It affords regional match officials with the requisite skills to advance to the FIFA International Refereeing Lists technical and practical training. The series also trains match and venue coordinators.

standout performers for the Windward Islands Infernos in the West Indies Breakout League.

The ExxonMobil Guyana GSL fans will be treated to several super concerts during the tournament

Sherfane Rutherford will head to the Barbados Royals

Jason Holder will make the switch to the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots

According to the CFU, Guyana’s U14 girls will compete in their Challenge series this August

GSL Director Jamie Stewart