Guyana Times - Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Page 1


Pres Ali among Caribbean leaders hailed after US reverses tariff

hike on Chinese ships

…shipping services laud unified stand taken by Region

Guyana recognised by US for work with int’l partners against drug trafficking

…new report urges Guyana to increase drug trafficking sentences 2 die in motorcycle crashes over holiday weekend

RSS wraps up probe as 2nd investigation continues

West Berbice man perishes in fire

28 persons living with disability receive business management training

Bartica businessman freed of nightclub shooting

TOPCO recalls 3 batches of unsweetened orange juice after consumer complaints

…James Bond slams Nigel Hughes’s call for families to reject RSS probe as “illogical”

…Police to seek legal advice on shooting of Ronaldo Peters See stories on pages 7 & 10

MODEC given greenlight by Exxon to begin designing FPSO for Hammerhead project

Participants from Regions Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), including part-time workers, engage in hands-on training by NAREI in soil mixing,

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, April 23 –01:00h-02:30h and Thursday, April 24 – 01:55h-03:25h.

to

Berbice

on: Wednesday, April 23 –12:50h-14:20h and Thursday, April 24 – 13:50h-15:20h.

Parika

FERRY SCHEDULE

Impact on Caribbean trade Pres Ali among Caribbean leaders hailed after US reverses tariff hike on Chinese ships …shipping services laud unified stand

taken by Region

n a major move, the United States Government had reversed course on plans to increase tariffs on Chinesebuilt ships traversing the Caribbean and, by extension, increase fees on containers, a move that has been hailed by US based company Tropical Shipping as a victory for the Region and has prompted praise for Caribbean leaders including President Dr Irfaan Ali.

Since the President Donald Trump led administration had announced increased tariffs on Chinesebuilt ships, which would have led to container fees hikes and price increases, there had been much agitation in the Region.

Guyana was one such country that had spoken out against this development, with President Ali expressing worry about the impact on trade in Guyana and the Region. Joining other Regional leaders in expressing concerns at the tariffs being proposed by the US Government and the effect that can have on shipping in the Region, President Ali had also assured that these matters will be raised with their US partners.

A key concern has been President Donald Trump’s plan to impose tariffs on China-made ships/vessels, which will impact trade in Guyana and the Caricom region. In an interview, Ali had noted that based on the policy being proposed, once these vessels fall within a certain category they will be charged.

It subsequently emerged that the Caribbean would be exempted from the proposed US surcharges, a decision that has been welcomed by members of the private sector. According to Tropical Shipping, a US based shipping company with an office in Guyana, the win is a significant one since the pro-

posed surcharge would have cost its customers an additional $3000 per 40-foot container load.

The company’s CEO, Tim Martin, lauded the Caribbean region for its relentless advocacy and ensuring that their voices were heard. As a matter of fact, he revealed that a United States Trade Representative member had expressed surprise at the massive response from the region. And among the regional Head of States he singled out for praise was President Ali.

“This is a huge victory for us and the entire Caribbean region that we serve. Our voices were heard. We could not have accomplished this with-

out the relentless advocacy from our Caribbean representatives in Washington, D.C., our customers, and the many organizations that wrote letters to the USTR describing the devastating multiplier effect these port fees would have had on all of us,” he explained.

Other regional leaders who came in for praise

dressing. The Guyana Government has already been engaging the US to ensure that trade relations remain favourable not just between the two countries but the wider Caribbean region. As far back as February, this position had been articulated by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, amid plans by the

were Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Chair and Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley, Governor Albert Bryan of the US Virgin Islands and Dr. Patrick Antione of the CARICOM Private Sector Organisation.

The tariff on shipping vessels had also been accompanied by 38 per cent reciprocal tariffs being imposed on US imports from Guyana. This is another area that the government of Guyana has said it would work with the US on ad-

US Government to impose tariffs on imports from several countries including Canada, Mexico and China. While the US Government had gone ahead with its implementation of a 10 per cent tariff on imports from China, there had been a 30-day delay on the 25 per cent tariff to be imposed on imports from Canada and Mexico. This latter move had brought some level of relief but this was shortlived after President Trump threatened to hit more countries with similar tariffs.

President Dr Irfaan Ali
Tropical Shipping containers

Editor: Tusika Martin

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Our power, our planet

As Earth Day 2025 was observed across the globe on Tuesday, nations paused to reflect on the profound responsibility entrusted to humanity — to protect and sustain the only home known to life. This year’s theme, “Our Power, Our Planet”, was both an acknowledgment and a challenge. It affirmed the immense capacity of human action to influence the natural world for better or worse, and it called on governments, institutions, communities, and individuals to act decisively in favour of the former.

In Guyana, Earth Day resonates with unique intensity. As one of the most forest-rich nations on Earth, boasting over 80% forest cover and vast tracts of pristine ecosystems, the country stands as a global example of what is possible when natural heritage is honoured and safeguarded. The Government of Guyana, through agencies such as the Protected Areas Commission, continues to advance this legacy, working in tandem with local communities and international partners to protect biodiversity, while promoting sustainable development.

The nation’s protected areas — from the legendary Kaieteur National Park and Shell Beach to the Kanuku Mountains, Iwokrama Forest, and the Kanashen Amerindian Protected Area — are more than just scenic or scientific treasures. They are living, breathing testimonies of ecological foresight and cultural respect. These spaces represent a national commitment to conservation that transcends rhetoric and is being implemented through targeted policy, grassroots engagement, and institutional support.

This year's Earth Day theme underscores the idea that environmental protection is not an abstract or distant goal; it is embedded in everyday choices and actions. Whether through sustainable land use, renewable energy investment, eco-tourism initiatives, or reforestation programmes, the call is to harness collective and individual power in meaningful, measurable ways.

At the heart of Guyana’s environmental strategy is the Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030 (LCDS 2030). It is not only a policy framework — it is a manifestation of a vision in which development and environmental responsibility are not at odds, but are rather co-dependent. LCDS 2030 has charted a path for Guyana to grow economically while maintaining its status as a net carbon sink. It recognises the country’s forests, not as obstacles to development, but as assets of global significance, meriting both national stewardship and international partnership.

Indeed, global collaboration remains critical. Climate change, biodiversity loss, and ecosystem degradation know no borders. It is therefore incumbent on all nations to act with solidarity and shared urgency. In this regard, Guyana’s role on the world stage — as a voice for sustainable forestry, carbon trading, and indigenousled conservation — grows more important with each passing year. Earth Day is an opportunity to reaffirm those commitments and elevate the discourse around equitable environmental action.

The involvement of communities, particularly Indigenous peoples, in conservation efforts cannot be overstated. Their knowledge systems, spiritual connections to the land, and traditional practices are essential to protecting the integrity of Guyana’s ecosystems. Empowering these communities through policy inclusion, resource allocation, and respectful partnership is central to any lasting environmental solution.

Earth Day must also serve as a reminder of the work still to be done. Despite impressive strides, challenges persist. Climate resilience, pollution management, urban planning, and environmental education remain critical fronts in the broader battle for planetary health. The need for innovation, investment, and vigilance is as pressing as ever.

It is a day of recommitment. To protect the Earth is to protect the essence of life itself. The trees that filter the air, the rivers that sustain livelihoods, and the wildlife that populates our forests are not passive backdrops to human life; they are active, irreplaceable participants in the story of our survival.

Earth Day 2025, in all its symbolism and substance, must therefore not be confined to a single date on the calendar. Its message should inform year-round decision-making at every level — from legislative chambers and corporate boardrooms to schoolyards and family farms.

“Our Power, Our Planet” is not just a theme; it is a truth. The power to shape the future belongs to those willing to act in the present. In celebrating Earth Day, Guyana and the world must continue to move forward with determination, humility, and a shared responsibility to steward the planet for current and future generations.

100s that changed cricket

Dear Editor, Four Guyanese cricketers are featured in this month's Wisden Cricket Monthly's cover article titled, "100 Hundreds that Changed the Game". The centuries they chose were: at number 85 and number 86, Shiv Chanderpaul's 105 and Ramnaresh Sarwan's 104 in the same match, the fourth Test against Australia in May 2003. At number 34 is Roy Fredericks's 169 in the second Test against Australia in December 1975, and at number 2 is Clive Lloyd's 102 in the World Cup Finals against Australia in June 1975.

There can be much reasonable disagreement and debate about many of

the one hundred centuries chosen. They were cherry picked from centuries in all formats of the game, from the inception of available scorecards to today, and they include women's matches too.

Centuries by Deandra Dottin and three other women are among the players I recognize. Four Guyanese cricketers, coming from a nation of less than a million inhabitants, making such an outstanding list of players from all time in a cricketing universe of roughly two billion people is cause for national pride. Congratulations, Guyana!

Clive Lloyd's 102 at number 2 in the 1975

World Cup Finals at Lords against Australia speaks for itself, especially for those of us who listened to the match. Roy Fredericks's 169 was a welcome bouyant relief for West Indian fans in that humiliating series against Lillee and Thompson in 1975 in Australia.

Sarwan and Shiv's centuries in 2003 in the fourth Test against Australia enabled the West Indies to win a match in which they had to score 418 in the fourth innings, the highest successful chase in Test cricket. But did it also lead to a lowering of the tempo and vileness of sledging, for which the Australian players were notorious? I

don't know if it is accurate, but I believe that sledging has been significantly lessened in the last decade or two. Or is that partially due to the fact that many of the Australian Test players are now heavily involved in the lucrative IPL, making sacksful of rupees alongside team mates from other countries, thus making them less inclined to vileness on the field? There are fifteen Test stature Australians in this year's IPL. At any rate, congratulations to Clive, Shiv and Ramnaresh, and a respectful bouquet to the memory of Roy. You made us proud.

Yours faithfully, Tulsi Dyal Singh, MD

Brian Tiwari’s comeback

Dear Editor,

A few days ago, the CEO of one of Guyana’s most accomplished engineering and construction companies declared his support for the ruling PPP. Mr Brian Tiwarie has made a profound endorsement at a time when discussions - bordering on life support - of forming a coalition between two other major parties have collapsed.

In reality, it is difficult for any PNC-AFC merger to get back into power following

the aftermath of the 20152020 rule of the Coalition, which epitomizes the old saying: out of the coffin and into the grave.

It must be remembered that Mr Tiwarie is former Adviser to Minister of State Joseph Harmon during the Coalition, and his company has built numerous schools, roads and sea defence structures throughout the country.

During the handing over of some equipment he pro-

cured from MACORP’s subsidiary ISG, the main manufacturer of Caterpillar machinery, Tiwarie spoke about the infrastructural vision the PPP/C government has for the country, and said he is supporting the party.

No doubt BK, as he is popularly known, can make a great impact on the country’s crumbling infrastructure, and vastly improve the poor quality of work, especially on road construction, that has proliferated.

Objectively, and not in defence of the PPP, the party has weathered beatings, newsprint blockades, rigged elections, insults about its Marxist leanings, and castigation of its support base.

Vice President Jagdeo stands out as the salient whipping boy, the man who almost invariably has to withstand the incessant barrage of insults and accusations.

President Dr Irfaan Ali was with the children of the South Rupununi village of Maruranau, Region Nine (Upper Takutu–Upper Essequibo) over the weekend (Office of the President photo)

PNC and its coalition partners are attention seekers

Dear Editor,

Recent developments relative to the PNC and the AFC coalescing have hit a snag in which the AFC have reported that they would rather go it alone as a single party into the election.

This latest announcement has created quite a stir in political circles, as there are several implications for the political parties involved as well as for the voting population on the whole. In the first place, what does “going it alone” mean for the AFC? What are the implications for that party? Can they command a significant voting pool with which they can win seats comfortably? Who would vote for that party? These are some of the questions one would ask as we head into the next election.

So, what can be drawn from this latest fallout?

What is pellucid is that these two opposition members are at loggerheads as to who should be the presidential candidate to lead the coalition into the election. Norton, who heads the largest party in that would-be coalition, is highly unpopular within his own party. Opinion polls have shown that the APNU under his leadership would suffer a disastrous defeat.

A similar fate awaits the AFC, which Nigel Hughes controls. For his part, the AFC have been an abysmal failure ever since the deflection of Charrandas Persaud and the decimation of Indians in the party. That means the AFC cannot draw away swing voters

from the PPP/C, which in itself creates a worst-case scenario.

Herein lies the crux of the matter: Aubrey Norton's unpopularity versus Nigel Hughes's inability to attract votes. Either party cannot exist without the other; there cannot be a “go it alone” for either party.

In my view the statement that the AFC would contest as a single entity is a hoax. That statement was meant to draw sympathy to these parties and hopefully gain some traction from the voters. The two parties are hopelessly locked in a situation that helps neither party, so they are trying desperately to gain attention from the Guyanese populace out there, who might somehow see them as a viable alternative to the PPP/C. The Coalition is on a slippery slope.

This is the situation that confronts the would-be coalition:

1. Mohamed is a sanctioned candidate, hence the coalition runs the risk of the entire Opposition being blacklisted or sanctioned with him. My suspicion is that this is the root cause of the breakdown of coalition talks; that is, the inclusion of Mohammed in the coalition.

2. Mohammed cannot gain votes from the strongholds of the PPP/C. Clear signs are from much of what is seen on social media. He is able only to attract support mainly from the PNC strongholds; which means the three entities: AFC, APNU and Team Mohamed,

are fighting for votes from the same gene pool of voters, and that is a pretty confusing state of affairs.

3. The 2015 scenario comes into full view, and freshest in our minds is the way Indians - and by extension Guyanese - were used and abused by the dominant Black Group in that coalition: the closure of the sugar estates, the raising of taxes, and the rank cronyism that pervaded society. People are wary of the humiliating and demeaning way Nagamootoo, Ramjattan and Charrandas were treated after their union with that group of persons.

4. It would be a fantasy thought that the APNU would accommodate an Azruddin Mohamed near presidential status in any coalition. That will not happen!

5. The desperate move by the Coalition to blatantly rig the election and hold on to power speaks volumes to all the voters in this country that their goal, their pur-

pose, is to hold on to power by any means necessary. I am confident that the voters in our country would see to it that this does not happen again.

Herald the point that Guyana is not about mak-

ing that mortal mistake of 2015 again. When one views the actions of the Black Supremacists in the coalition after their union in 2015, we are doomed to a repeat in 2025 if ever that "tripartite arrangement"

should come to fruition. At this stage of our development, we cannot run the risk of another experiment.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

Suddenly rates are unsustainable

Dear Editor, The waste disposal company is threatening to pull its service from two constituencies, 9 and 14, due to unsustainable rates (iNews April 22). How are the rates un-

sustainable in these two constituencies but, we are to assume, sustainable in other constituencies served by the company? Does this sudden unsustainability have anything to do with recent increase in subventions to municipalities? Can we expect other contractors to make the same clamour?

Sincerely, Shamshun Mohamed

Brian Tiwari’s comeback...

No need to state that he has stood his ground with courage and dedication; most profoundly, he continues to articulate for improvements throughout the land, an attribute that has been the envy of all in high office on both sides of the oil.

Notwithstanding, the PPP has emerged as a far better organization to charter the course of Guyana. No name changes since its formation seventy-five years ago, vis-a-vis the comical somersault of the PNC into PNC/Reform APNU, then Coalition, then back to APNU, only an incorporation of a Civic component to augment its governance acumen.

Sincerely, Leyland Chitlall Roopnaraine

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23, 2025

00:00 Sign Off 06:00 Cartoons 07:00 Evening News (RB) 08:00 HGTV 09:00 Stop Suffering 10:00 Food Network 12:00 News Break 12:05 Indian Movie - Krrish (2006) 15:00 When Calls the Heart S10 E6 16:00 Indian Soaps 17:00 The Young & The Restless 18:00 Aljazeera 19:00 The Evening News 20:00 Stop Suffering 20:30 Stand-up Comedy 21:00 Good Trouble S3 E16 22:00 Superman and Lois S1 E15

23:00 The Office S7 E20 23:30 The Last Man on Earth S3 E3

Page Foundation

2. People from crowded nations cannot get over the accessibility of Canada's natural environment, in all its significance.

Day 7

Things to do

Reduce your revision notes for Section Five to revision cards

Reduce Section Six of your material to revision notes

Reduce your pile of revision cards (as many as you have time to do). You will do some of these each day, so that you gradually see the pile reducing.

As you sift through your material, remember you are pulling out the important information that you do not recall and have not mastered to make revision notes. The information you have mastered and have at the tip of your tongue do not need revision cards once you can recall them without mistake and in detail.

Secondary sources

These should be used very sparingly during your revision. Going to other sources, such as books, and the internet, can be a huge and distracting time waster, so know before you go to the library or Internet café exactly what you need to look at and why you are looking at it. You must identify beforehand the gaps in your knowledge that you are trying to fill. You do not have to go to a library or Internet café to look at the Internet, but some students prefer the discipline of doing all of their research in one place. It can help to avoid time wasting, so decide in advance whether this could work for you. Make a list of sources to look at and stick to it – no wandering the aisles or the Internet in search of inspiration! Use the index and table of contents of each book to give you a sense of how much it might help you and as quick guides to its contents.

Photocopy or print out only the pages you really need and then use them as if they were your condensed notes (reducing them to revision cards), but skim-read them first before you make the commitment to photocopy or print them: do you really need them?

Below are past CXC Maths and English questions to help you review.

Instructions: Revise each of the following sentences according to the directions that follow it. Do not change the meaning of the original sentence. Look at the options A to D. for the word or phrase that best suits your revised sentence.

1. The cricket match ended abruptly when many of the spectators stormed the field. Begin the sentence with Many of the spectators stormed (A) so (B) but (C) getting (D) preventing

Begin the sentence with It is impossible for (A) to be over (B) to get over (C) to have got over (D) to getting over

3. She found, even after she had made several attempts to regulate the sprinkler, that the water was still reaching the furniture on the verandah.

Begin the sentence with It is impossible for (A) she found that (B) and finding that (C) she had found that (D) she was finding that

4. "It's going to be alright," Mom assured me. Begin the sentence with Mom assured me that (A) there (B) it was (C) simply (D) only

5. These students are hard-working as well as respectful. Begin the sentence with Not only (A) and (B) though (C) rather than (D) but they are also

1. A group of students wrote a Physics examination. Each of the students achieved a Grade I, II, III or IV. The pie chart below shows the results.

Thirty-nine students achieved a Grade III.

(i) Determine the TOTAL number of students who wrote the examination.

(ii) The ratio of the number of students who achieved a Grade I, II or IV is 2:4:3. A student passed the examination if he/she achieved a Grade I, II or III. How many students passed the examination?

Determine the value of the angle for the sector representing Grade I in the pie chart.

Cruising at thirty thousand feet above the endless green the islands seem like dice tossed on a casino’s baize, some come up lucky, others not. Puerto Rico takes the pot, the Dallas of the West Indies, silver linings on the clouds as we descend are hall-marked, San Juan glitters like a maverick’s gold ring.

All across the Caribbean

we’d collected terminals – airports are like calling cards, cultural fingermarks; the hand-written signs at PortauPrince, Piarco’s sleazy tourist art, the lethargic contempt of the baggage boys at ‘Vere Bird’ in St. Johns...

And now for plush San Juan.

But the pilot’s bland, you’re safe in my hands drawl crackles as we land, “US regulations demand all passengers not disembarking at San Juan stay on the plane, I repeat, stay on the plane.” Subtle Uncle Sam, afraid too many desperate blacks might re-enslave this Island of the free, might jump the barbed electric fence around ‘America’s back yard’ and claim that vaunted sanctuary... ‘Give me your poor...’

Through toughened, tinted glass the contrasts tantalise; US patrol cars glide across the shimmering tarmac, containered baggage trucks unload with fierce efficiency. So soon we’re climbing, low above the pulsing city streets; galvanised shanties overseen by condominiums polished Cadillacs shimmying past Rastas with pushcarts and as we climb, San Juan’s fool’s glitter calls to mind the shattered innards of a TV set that’s fallen off the back of a lorry, all painted valves and circuits the roads like twisted wires, the bright cars, micro-chips It’s sharp and jagged and dangerous, and belonged to someone else

Questions

1. Summarise the poem

2. What type of poem is it?

3. Describe the tone, mood, atmosphere, and persona

4. List two examples of imagery, metaphor/simile and all the figures of speech found in the poem

5. Describe how the poem makes you feel

6. Suggest an alternative title for the poem and state why it is appropriate

“Violence is never a solution” – Pres Ali on terrorist attack in Kashmir

…extends solidarity to India

President Dr Irfaan Ali has extended condolences and a strong message of solidarity to the Government and people of India following the recent terrorist attack in Kashmir that claimed multiple lives and injured several others.

In a formal letter addressed to Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, President Ali condemned the act in the strongest terms and reiterated Guyana’s steadfast opposition to terrorism and violent extremism.

“This heinous act of violence is a tragic reminder of the devastating impact of extremism,” the President wrote. “I unequivocally condemn this brutal attack, which serves no purpose other than to instill fear and suffering. Violence is never a solution; it only perpetuates a cycle of pain and loss.”

Additionally, President Ali expressed deep sorrow over

the loss of lives and extended sympathies to the families affected by the tragedy. He noted that Guyana stands with India in mourning and in its pursuit of justice.

“Let us all stand together against such acts of violence and commit ourselves to fostering a culture of peace and compassion,” he urged. “I am confident that those responsible for this horrific attack will be brought to justice.”

President Ali’s message adds to the growing chorus of international condemnation and calls for accountability, as global leaders respond to the attack. His remarks also reflect Guyana’s broader commitment to peaceful dialogue and international solidarity in confronting terrorism and violent extremism.

Attack

According to international news outlet The Guardian,

Linden fatal Police shootings

at least 28 tourists have been killed after suspected militants “opened fire at a popular local tourist destination in Kashmir” during a scheduled four-day visit to the country by the Vice President (VP) of the United States (US) James David Vance.

The publication detailed that the attack occurred in the Baisaran Valley, a picturesque meadow in Pahalgam, a well-known tourist town located 90 kilometres (km) south of Srinagar, the region’s

main city, in what officials are describing as the deadliest attack on civilians in the region in recent years.

At about 3pm local time, a group of gunmen, who apparently approached tourists from the direction of the nearby mountains, emerged from a dense pine forest. Graphic videos shared by locals on social media showed injured tourists lying in pools of blood, while their relatives screamed and pleaded for help. Due to the area’s lack

of road access, helicopter services were deployed to evacuate the wounded.

According to local police officials, two to three gunmen opened indiscriminate fire on tourists in the area, which is accessible only by foot or on horseback, before fleeing the scene.

Protests erupted in several areas of the Indianadministered Kashmir condemning the attack, with a rally led by right-wing vigilantes in the city of Jammu blaming Pakistan.

The report further went on to note that authorities have described the attack as targeted and intended to spread terror among the tourists visiting Kashmir.

In fact, VP Vance condemned the “horrific attack” and shared his condolences with a post on social media. “Usha and I extend our condolences to the victims of the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India,” he wrote.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they mourn this horrific attack.”

RSS wraps up probe as 2nd investigation continues …Police to seek legal advice on shooting of Ronaldo Peters

Two weeks after two men from Linden, Region Ten (Upper DemeraraBerbice) were shot dead allegedly by Police, the investigations into one of the cases has been completed while the probe into the other case remains ongoing.

The Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) and the Regional Security System (RSS) have completed their investigation into the alleged fatal Police shooting of 21-year-old Ronaldo Peters which occurred on April 7.

Peters was reportedly shot dead at Shabba Bar by a plain clothes Police officer attached to the Wismar Police Station. The GPF in a statement had said that Peters was wanted for child rape. In this regard, the Police said a sergeant from the Wismar Police Station received information that Peters was seen at Shabba Bar in the One Mile area and as a result, the sergeant, armed with a 9mm service pistol, went to the bar.

It was alleged that upon seeing the Police ranks, he attempted to flee and tried to jump a nearby fence. According to Police, the Sergeant managed to pull Peters off the fence, and during the process of restraining him, his service pistol, held in his right hand, discharged, striking Peters. Peters was taken to the Linden Hospital Complex, where he later succumbed to his injuries while.

The following day, sections of the mining town of Linden erupted into protests over the death. During the protests –which were marked by the burning of tyres and blocking off of roads – Police reportedly fatally shot a man, identified

as 32-year-old Keon Fogenay. Eyewitnesses alleged that he was not actively participating in the protest but was struck while passing through the area.

Following the incidents, President Dr Irfaan Ali intervened and met with grieving families and regional officials. He assured them of thorough investigations into both in-

cidents. In a statement on Tuesday, the Police Force revealed that with the investigation into Peters’ case completed, investigators are now seeking legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) on the way forward. Meanwhile, in the case of Fogenay, the GPF said the investigations remains ongoing as additional witnesses have to be interviewed.

Additionally, according to the Police, RSS is also expected to submit a report containing findings and recommendations. The RSS had sent a three-member investigative team in Guyana to assist local authorities with investigations into the fatal Police

shootings. This was done to added more credibility and independence to the investigations.

Moreover, the cops in-

the investigations.

volved in the fatal shootings have been placed under close arrest, pending the outcome of
Ronaldo Peters (left) and Keon Fogenay (right)
The Regional Security System team who were responsible for conducting investigations
President Dr Irfaan Ali embraces Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi during his visit to Guyana last year

Bartica businessman freed of nightclub shooting

Abusinessman from Bartica, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), who was at the centre of a high-profile nightclub shooting in August 2023, has been freed after the Bartica Magistrate’s Court upheld a no-case submission on Tuesday.

Magistrate Teriq Mohamed ruled in favour of 46-year-old Vivendra Balgobin, a businessman of Fifth Avenue, Bartica, who was facing a charge of felonious wounding in connection with a shooting that injured two persons in August 2023. The court found that there was insufficient evidence for the matter to proceed to trial.

Tracking down… …corruption

Your Eyewitness’s trusty dictionary says that corruption is “dishonest or fraudulent conduct by those in power, typically involving bribery.” So, it seems that when we’re talking about corruption, we’re only concerned about “those in power”?!! What the heck is this?? Ordinary folks can’t be corrupt?? So, those who OFFER bribes to “those in power” ain’t corrupt?? It takes two to tango, but not to be corrupt??

Balgobin’s Attorney, Bernard DaSilva made the no-case submission during the most recent hearing, arguing that the prosecution failed to provide credible evidence to support the charge. The Magistrate agreed, saying that the elements required to prove the offence had not been established.

and injured.

The other charge, attempted murder, was formally withdrawn by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) following a request made by the virtual complainant,

The charges stemmed from a violent altercation that occurred around midnight on August 30, 2023, at a popular nightclub in Bartica. During the incident, Conroy Cox, known as “Pink Boy,” and Lavella Douglas, an 18-year-old bystander, were both shot

According to Police investigations and reports submitted to the court, Cox had been inside the nightclub with a group of friends when a man, allegedly a friend of Balgobin, accidentally bumped into their table. The collision overturned several bottles and spilled beer, prompting an argument. Cox reportedly became angry and confronted the individual. At some point, Balgobin allegedly intervened, and a heated verbal exchange followed between him and Cox.

The situation escalated when Cox, according to police, threw a liquid substance in Balgobin’s face and physically assaulted him. Following the altercation, Cox exited the nightclub, but later returned in his car and reportedly continued to verbally abuse Balgobin from outside.

Eyewitnesses claimed that as Cox exited his vehicle once more, Balgobin allegedly pulled out his licensed firearm from his waist and reportedly opened fire in Cox’s direction. Cox was hit three times to his stomach. Douglas, who was reportedly standing nearby and not involved in the dispute, was struck by a stray bullet in her right hand.

Public-spirited citizens who witnessed the shooting immediately intervened and transported both victims to the Bartica Regional Hospital for emergency treatment. They were subsequently treated and discharged.

Following the incident, Balgobin was arrested and charged. He made his first appearance before Magistrate Crystal Lambert at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court on September 14, 2023, where the charge of attempted murder was read to him. He was granted bail in the sum of $800,000 on the condition that he lodge his passport with the court. The case was then transferred to Magistrate Mohamed, but the attempted murder charge was withdrawn and a felonious wounding charge was instituted.

The AG was reported to’ve gotten all hot and sweaty because of US Department of State’s International Narcotics Control Strategy Report (INCSR) 2025 - released in March. He railed about its implications that local public officials were connected to claims of corruption - without detailing specific cases that led to the report’s conclusion. He referred to this as “more speculative and sensational reportage!!” He animatedly went on to describe steps his government had taken in excruciating detail - after the Yanks had fingered one big one over here who’d used a government official who was also fingered.

Some of these steps were: “i) criminalising drug-money laundering, ii) implementing know-your-customer provisions, iii) reporting suspicious transactions, iv) maintaining records over time, v) implementing cross-border transportation of currency, vi) implementing beneficial ownership data collection & retention provisions, vii) compliance with international law cooperations, viii) implementing systems for identifying/forfeiting assets, ix) implementing arrangements for asset sharing, x) becoming a party to information exchange agreements with non-US governments, xi) becoming a party to the 1988 UN Drug Convention, and xii) becoming a party to UNTOC [UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime] and UNCAC [UN Convention against Corruption].” Whew!!

But your Eyewitness thinks the AG is barking up the wrong tree in responding to the corruption accusations from the US. He believes that - as in the case with democracy and other American values we try to follow - the best route for us is to try to imitate their best practices!! And how do the Yanks deal with preventing their public officials from being bribed to perform their official functions?

Well…DUH!! They invented the institution of LOBBYING!! Here, if you want the government to do something that’s gonna benefit you or your company, you offer the government official money via some individuals who do this for a living by simply calling it “lobbying”!! Now, you may say the money goes to the lobbyists, and not to the officials!! But let’s pick sense from nonsense, shall we?? Why would the official listen to the lobbyist, unless he’s getting some lettuce?? Folks also can offer “campaign contributions” directly to elected government officials - but that has limits. And we already know about “lobbying” since, before the last elections, we’d hired a lobbying firm named “Mercury” to push our democratic agenda. And presently, another one.

Local lobbyists, anyone??!!

…the youth vote

Your Eyewitness has been listening forever to prognostications (like that, eh??) of changes in voting behaviour in our ole Mudland - because of the increasing proportion of youths in our voting population. The theory is that youths wouldn’t be as “contaminated” with our ethnic prejudices as their older forbears - who would’ve experienced (or be regaled first hand) about the “Disturbances of the 1960s”.

We’re told that these youths now number 65%, and as such, the politicians should be targeting them specifically.

Now, there’s nothing wrong with this advice – but your Eyewitness believes the premises are flawed. We shouldn’t forget that the recent “troubles” between 1998 and 2008 produced at least twice the number of casualties than the 1960s – 432 versus 176. And they were also mostly ethnically directed.

So, what to do?? Well, just do what the PPP’s doing –target the youths from across the divide and show them they can also make it big in Guyana!! The steady drip of water can change mountains into sand!!

…an Opposition Leader

After sixty years, we finally have a PNC leader who’s comfortable in his own skin. And it appears that PNC supporters have finally wised up to the irony of them rejecting one of their own!!

Conroy Cox.
The man that received gunshot wounds, Conroy Cox
Vivendra Balgobin Attorney-at-Law Bernard DaSilva

Inquiry into Linden fatal shootings

James Bond slams Nigel Hughes’s call for families to reject RSS probe as “illogical”

Prominent attorney and former Member of Parliament for the People’s National Congress (PNC), James Bond, has criticised comments made by Alliance For Change (AFC) Leader Nigel Hughes, calling them “illogical”. Hughes had urged residents of Linden to reject the investigation being conducted by the Regional Security System (RSS) into the fatal Police shootings of Ronaldo Peters, 21, and Keon Fogenay, 32, earlier this month.

According to Bond, Hughes's directive does not hold water given that he cannot judge the contents of the investigation even before knowing what is contained within the report.

“[Hughes's comments] doesn't sound like a logical comment, it has to be something more to it. If the investigation reveals the ranks were culpable should that report be accepted? If the report comes back to charge them with murder should Lindeners disregard it.

Something isn’t adding up,” Bond concluded.

A three-member team from the RSS had recently travelled to Guyana to assist the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) investigations into the recent shootings in Linden, where protests erupted after the alleged Police killing of Ronaldo Peters, a young resident of Wismar. Peters was reportedly shot by a Police officer stationed at the Wismar Police Station, demonstrations demanding justice.

Less than 24 hours later, protests escalated dramatically. As demonstrators set fires and blocked major routes, another man — Keon “Dan” Fogenay, a 32-yearold father of four — was fatally shot by Police during a confrontation where protestors hurdled missiles at the Police. According to the GPF, the shooting occurred during an attempt to disperse protestors who had turned violent, throwing missiles and damaging property.

The cops involved in the fatal shooting have been placed under close arrest.

The arrival of the RSS followed a commitment made by President Irfaan Ali to execute an independent investigation into the two killings, when he met with the families at Watooka House to offer his condolences and emphasised the need for calm and compassion during what he described as a “deeply painful” time.

However, on Sunday last, AFC Leader Nigel Hughes attended the funeral of the victims and directed residents of the mining town to disregard the pending report investigating the situation based on the RSS handling of previous investigations, namely the 2020 killing of the Henry boys - Isaiah Henry, 16, and his 18-year-old cousin Joel Henry - who were found brutally murdered at Cotton Tree Backdam, West Coast

Berbice (WCB).

“I say to you today, Linden, do not accept any peace offering that says that the Police should investigate or that the RSS can assist. They are both incapable. And if you want to pay tribute to these two sons here do not accept the Police investigation and do not accept an investigation by the RSS,” Hughes said.

Instead, Hughes called on the residents to demand that the Government offer the families compensation of $100 million each. On Tuesday, the GPF in a statement said that OPR and RSS had completed their investigation and the case file is expected to be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecution by Wednesday to obtain legal advice. The RSS is also expected to submit and subsequently make public a report containing findings and recommendations.

Attorney-at-Law James Bond
AFC Leader Nigel Hughes
Dead: 21-year-old Ronaldo Peters (left) and 32-year-old Keon Fogenay

Teen dies in motorcycle crash

Tragedy struck along the East Bank of Demerara (EBD) late Monday night when 19-year-old Ricardo Melville of Kaneville lost his life in a motorcycle crash.

According to Police in Regional Division 4B, the fa tal incident occurred around 23:50h on Monday, along the Diamond Public Road. Investigators disclosed that Melville was riding motor cycle CL 4491 south along the eastern carriageway al legedly at high speed when he lost control of the vehi cle. The bike careened off the road and slammed into a concrete culvert located on the eastern parapet of the thoroughfare.

Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) arrived at the scene and found Melville unconscious. He was rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre, but succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment. His body was later transferred to the Memorial Gardens

a post-mortem examination.

As Police continue their investigation into the fatal collision, the news of Melville’s sudden passing has left friends and family in shock.

Those who knew him described him as a kind-hearted and helpful individual, someone who always showed up when needed

and never hesitated to lend a hand. Many are struggling to come to terms with the fact that a life so full of potential was cut short in an

Just a year ago, the teen’s mother died, and only a few months later, his father also died. According to one of his friends, the back-to-back losses had already left the young man navigating life in the painful absence of both parents. Now, with his own untimely death, relatives and friends are grappling with grief.

Those close to him shared their heartbreak Guyana Times, expressing their disbelief and devastation. Some said they are still in shock, unable to process that their friend is now gone.

One friend said, “I was told that he was coming from over the river where he was with some of his football friends. I am still in shock”.

Police said investigations are ongoing.

West Berbice man perishes in fire

Afire last evening at Union Village, popularly referred to as Number 30 Village, has left one person dead.

The fire was reportedly seen at about 19:30h on Monday in the West Coast Berbice community in the residence where 49-year-old Floyd Moriah lived alone.

Moriah was reportedly trapped inside the building; his remains were discovered among the debris when firefighters finally managed to extinguish the blaze late Monday night.

The man’s sister, Corlette Moriah, told investigators that her brother lived alone in a one-storey wooden structure measuring approximately 15 feet by 20 feet. She said the building was powered by Guyana Power and Light (GPL).

According to the sister, the now-dead man was reportedly suffering from neuropathy.

Meanwhile, Station Officer in charge of Guyana Fire Service Region Five operations Sean Crawford said

firefighters were able to battle the blaze and bring it under control, preventing it from spreading to neighbouring properties. He said it only took them a few minutes from Onverwagt to Union, three villages away.

“On arrival, it was observed that the entire building was engulfed,” he said.

He said the firefighters were able to get water from an open source and within about 35 minutes they were able to get the fire under

control and extinguish it.

“After a thorough search was carried out on the premises, we discovered a body which appeared to be that of the occupier of the said premises that was destroyed by fire.

“Over all it took us about 25-30 minutes based on the amount of personnel that we have; we have issues in terms of staffing; we need some more staff to handle such fire scenes.

The aftermath of the fire

Ramsammy’s Ruminations

We wonder if the PNC, AFC and the others realise that Elections 2025 are near

Easter weekend 2025 has come and gone. President Irfaan Ali and his Cabinet's, including VP Bharrat Jagdeo and PM Mark Phillips, went across the country on Good Friday, celebrating one of the holiest days of the year with Christians and non-Christians. The President and cabinet are always engaged and fully participating in every single religious event, no matter which religion. On Easter Sunday, President Ali spent the day with the citizens of Region 9, celebrating with them one of Guyana’s signature tourist events – the Lethem Rodeo. On Easter Monday, the cabinet went across Guyana celebrating the world’s most prominent kite-flying event with the people.

President Ali and the cabinet, as other PPP presidents and cabinets have done, have not only celebrated with the people one of the important religious weekends, but have also sustained the effort to make Easter a tourist event in Guyana. They have continued to work with the organizers of the Lethem Rodeo and the Bartica Regatta and with the kite-flying events across the country to make Easter a signature tourism event for Guyana. They know that building the tourism industry is critical for strengthening Guyana’s economic diversification.

While it was impossible to miss the President, the VP, the PM, and the rest of the cabinet and other senior Government officials as they joined citizens in celebrating Easter around the country, it was equally impossible to see the Opposition around. It would be unfair to demand of the Opposition the same kind of visibility as we saw with President Ali and his cabinet. But one would have thought that the Opposition would seize the opportunity to engage thousands of Guyanese in churches and community events in Lethem, Bartica, the #63 Beach, and other places around Guyana where people gathered. Maybe a few of the leaders were around, but the Opposition as a whole was missing in action (MIA).

Within seven months, Elections 2025 will be upon us in Guyana. Any serious political candidate, any serious political party, must know this. Any serious political party would already be intensely preparing for Elections 2025. If one looks at the PPP, it is impossible to miss the clear message – the PPP is in full campaign mode. The Opposition is still entangled in determining how they would participate in the elections. Just before Easter, they timidly - almost embarrassingly - announced that the PNC and the AFC would part ways and contest Elections 2025 separately. In the same timid breath, however, they made clear they might still get together.

The PPP has actually provided a social media link for citizens to send in their ideas for inclusion in the PPP’s Election 2025 Manifesto. This initiative has drawn commendation from various sources in Guyana, and already citizens have begun to take the opportunity of sending in ideas. While it might be the first time the party is using a digital mode for engaging citizens in the preparation of the manifesto, it is not the first time that the PPP is engaging citizens in consultation prior to preparing its manifesto. In LGE 2023, the PPP held public consultations across Guyana in which citizens were asked to give their ideas, many of which the PPP incorporated into their plans.

For the Opposition, the manifestos might not be important. Two things have become apparent to the citizens of Guyana. First, in both Elections 2015 and 2020, the PNC-led APNU/AFC coalition published manifestos just about one or two weeks before elections. Few people ever saw their manifesto. The second thing to be aware of is that when they got into Government in 2015, they proceeded to ignore the manifesto. They conveniently forgot the promises they made.

The PPP, on the other hand, between August 2, 2020 and the present, has delivered on every single promise made in the Elections 2020 manifesto. The fact that the PPP is already in high gear in putting together a manifesto is a good measure that the PPP is already advanced in its preparations for Elections 2025.

In the meanwhile, the PNC and the AFC have to deal with an obvious migration by some important senior officials, while also dealing with memberships which are not confident that either Aubrey Norton or Nigel Hughes is the best presidential candidate for their respective parties.

Among others with presidential ambition, a newspaper publisher has not been timid in confessing his presidential ambition. In fact, two weekends ago, with thousands flocking to see the President in Region 6, this publisher was out hoping to get some visibility on the ground, recognizing that his picture in his newspaper and his voice on his radio station were not enough. In his delusion, he announced that he would be the next President of Guyana. But he has no party, and the public has no idea who are the people that would run with him.

The same applies to a rich Guyanese citizen who believes that he could go out one or two days a week and hand out charity and that would make him a preferred choice of the people to be the President of Guyana. He, too, has no party , having been rejected by the PNC/AFC. Elections are about choices that people must make. There might have been a time when people voted without considering who the candidates are and what ideas they have for developing our country. Those days are long gone. We have to go to the people with our ideas, track records, demonstrate they could trust us. Since Elections 2020, the PPP has been among the people. The Opposition, with Elections 2025 staring at them, are still engaged in internal conflicts and with no ideas with which to entice people to their side.

A fundamental point missed by the Opposition is that elections are not about them, elections are about the people. The Opposition is preparing itself for a good electoral thrashing come Elections 2025.

Free UG education takes full effect for new academic year

The Government’s policy of providing free university education will be fully implemented from the 2025/2026 academic year at the University of Guyana (UG).

This means that all tuition fees for diploma, bachelor’s, master’s, and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programmes will be waived for both new and continuing students.

In excess of 11,000 current students of UG are set to benefit from this measure along with all future entrants. The initiative which follows a commitment by President Dr Irfaan Ali and Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo to make tertiary education more accessible to all Guyanese, particularly those from low- and middle-income households, will cost the treasury some $18 billion.

The measure took effect from January 1, 2025, and is seen as a transformative step toward building a highly skilled, inclusive, and resilient workforce.

Applications open UG has begun accepting applications for the 2025/2026 academic year from April 1, 2025, and the process will close on May 16, 2025. All prospective students are encouraged to submit their applications early, as quotas for popular programmes fill up quickly, UG said on Tuesday, adding that it is currently processing an average of 1,200 applications per week.

Applications are invited for all degree, diploma, and certificate programmes, and detailed information about each programme, along with the application process, is available on UG’s official website and communication channels.

CSEC students

Meanwhile, prospective students set to sit the 2025 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations are also encouraged to apply for entry into UG before receiving their results. According to the University, provisional acceptance will be granted in some programmes, pending submission of official grades. In this regard, students are advised to request that Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) send their results directly to the University to expedite processing.

The rollout of free tuition in keeping with its 2020 Manifesto promise made by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government.

This is just one of a series of measures announced by President Dr Irfaan Ali to enhance access to education, particularly in bridging the gap between the hinterland and coastland. Free tuition is also applicable to all Government technical and vocational in-

stitutions, including the Linden Technical Institute (LTI), Essequibo Technical Institute (ETI), and Berbice Technical Institute (BTI).

About a week ago, the Head of State announced that the Government of Guyana will fully fund the CXC fees for at least eight CSEC subjects per student, as well as fees for the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE), benefiting both public and private school learners across the country.

The announcement was

made during a public meeting at the West Demerara Secondary School, Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara) where the Head of State addressed a packed audience of students, parents, and teachers.

Prior to the President’s announcement, the Government provided subsidies for students in the public education sector writing CSEC. The subsidies were determined based on the financial position of parents/ guardians.

Targeting students in Grades 11 through 13 at Government secondary schools, the subsidy structure covered up to 10 subjects and extends support to both new and continuing students, including special provisions for trained teachers pursuing exams. With this in mind, President Ali noted that the policy is expected to benefit thousands of students annually and reduce dropout rates while boosting national performance at the CSEC level.

Dr Leslie Ramsammy

Guyana recognised by US for work with int’l partners against drug trafficking

…new report urges Guyana to increase drug trafficking sentences

In a newly-released report

from the United States (US) State Department, Guyana was recognised for its demonstrated commitment to working with its international partners in the fight against drug trafficking, with 2024 featuring historically high drug seizures.

According to the 2025 International Narcotics Control Strategy Report (INCSR), Guyana’s collaboration with the international community saw it launching the National Defence Institute (NDI). This was established with the aim of building security expertise through Guyana’s collaboration with Caricom and US security and defence institutions.

The US State Department report spoke of Guyana’s National Drug Strategy 2022-

2026, which it noted laid out strategic programmes that have been set up to guide not only Guyana’s drug fight, but also anti-money laundering efforts to ensure the proceeds of the drug trade are not integrated into the formal economy.

The report acknowledged that these efforts have also resulted in increased drug seizures throughout last year, particularly of cocaine. As much as 6,700 kilograms (kg) of cocaine were seized for the period of January to September 2024 – a large increase compared to 62 kg that were seized during the same period in 2023.

“In 2024, the United States and Guyana’s Joint Interagency Task Force, including its Defence Force (GDF), collaborated to seize 4.4 Metric Tonnes (MT) of co-

caine worth approximately $195,000,000 – the country’s largest ever drug seizure,” the report stated.

The report also noted “the interception of a self-propelled semisubmersible (SPSS) approximately 150 miles off the coast of Guyana with 2.3 MT of cocaine.

Authorities also found a low-profile vessel (LPV), empty and abandoned in the waterways near Port Kaituma, near the Venezuelan border.”

Meanwhile, a total of 1.4 MT of marijuana was seized last year, versus the 1.1 MT that was seized during the same period in 2023. While more cocaine than marijuana was seized in Guyana, the report notes that marijuana remains a more prevalent drug when it comes to domestic use in Guyana.

“Weakest link”

The report also contained a number of recommendations, ranging from enhancing law enforcement and the Guyana Police Force (GPF), (which it called the “weakest link” in anti-money laundering), to increased drug trafficking sentences. The report expressed concern with several occurrences in law enforcement, one of which was that “authorities often drop charges or never file them and do not conduct serious investigations; (thus) traffickers are able to evade prosecution.”

“The Government can fight drug trafficking by enhancing law enforcement and customs capability through port security improvements, intelligence operations with regional and international partners, implementing stronger anticorruption measures, and strengthening its legislation relating to drug trafficking sentencing, to make it less attractive,” the report stated.

It was only recently that a major drug bust spearheaded by the GPF, resulted in the seizure of more than 211 kg of suspected cocaine during a series of intelligence-driven operations in the Imbotero area of Region One (Barima-Waini).

In total, the operation resulted in the seizure of 211.7 kg of suspected cocaine (approximately 465.7 pounds), which has an estimated street value of $317.55 million. Four persons were taken into Police custody.

Of the 6700 kg of substances confiscated and destroyed last year by the

Customs Anti Narcotic Unit (CANU), cocaine accounts for more than 90 per cent. This was followed by cannabis and methamphetamine respectively, with these drugs amounting to some $5.6 billion.

For the year 2024, a total of 71 cases were made with regard to illegal substances, with 82 arrests. This was a decrease from the previous year, whereby there were 93 cases made. Additionally, 54 charges were laid last year in relation to drug trafficking, with 11 being either withdrawn or dismissed.

Some of the cocaine that was seized in Region One during a major drug bust earlier this month

TOPCO recalls 3 batches of unsweetened orange juice after consumer complaints

…consumers to get full refund

Tropical Orchard Products Company Limited (TOPCO), a subsidiary of Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), has initiated a voluntary recall of specific batches of its 1 litre (L) Unsweetened Orange Juice. This action follows consumer feedback indicating a deviation in the standard sensory profile – both aroma and taste – in some products. The company has assured the public that recall is a precautionary measure and is working closely with regulatory authorities to address the issue. Based on these consumer reports, tests were conducted, and a decision was made to recall from the trade all TOPCO 1L Unsweetened Orange Juice recently produced in Batches One, Two, and Three. This recall was issued on Tuesday.

According to a release from the company, tests have confirmed that, of the entire TOPCO 1L range, only the Unsweetened Orange Juice product has been affected.

As such, it said its Quality Assurance and Production teams are working diligently with the equipment manufacturer and other specialists to conduct a comprehensive review of their supply chain and workflow, aiming to pinpoint the root cause of this isolated issue.

The organisation reaffirmed its commitment towards resolving the situation. It said, “We thank our customers for their vigilance and for reporting the matter, allowing

us the opportunity for a swift response. Your trust is important to us, and we are working to maintain it.”

Meanwhile, to address the situation TOPCO is urging consumers who have purchased TOPCO 1L Unsweetened Orange Juice from the identified batches to return the product to their place of purchase for a full refund.

TOPCO assures all consumers that they remain committed to the highest standards for quality and food safety. In the meantime, all other TOPCO Juice products are available for purchase and remain unaffected.

Motorcyclist killed in late-night collision on Linden-Soesdyke Highway

A39-year-old motorcyclist was killed on Monday night following a three-vehicle collision along the Moblissa Public Road, Linden-Soesdyke Highway.

The fatal accident occurred around 22:00h, and involved a minibus, a motorcycle, and a parked car.

Dead is Markind Jackson, a resident of Silver Hill Village, LindenSoesdyke Highway. At the time of the accident, he reportedly was riding motorcycle CL 7080.

According to Police reports, the accident also involved minibus BRR 8331, which was owned by Vibert Amsterdam and driven by 54-year-old Maurice Meredith, from 1st Alley, Wismar, Linden.

It also involved motor car, PXX 3747, owned and parked by 53-year-old Alonso Cornelius, residing at Lot 4603 Central Amelia’s Ward, Linden.

Preliminary investigations indicate that Meredith was proceeding south along the eastern side of the Moblissa Public Road at

an alleged fast rate when he lost control of the minibus. The vehicle reportedly veered onto the western driving lane, where it collided head-on with Jackson, who was travelling in the opposite direction.

The impact of the collision propelled both Jackson and his motorcycle into the parked car, PXX 3747, on the western side of the road, facing north.

As a result of the crash, Jackson fell onto the roadway and sustained multiple injuries. He was picked up in an unconscious condition and placed in a passing vehicle, which was escorted by Police to the Linden Hospital

Complex. The minibus driver, who was semi-conscious at the time, was also taken to the same hospital.

Jackson was pronounced dead on arrival by a doctor on duty, while Meredith was admitted to the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Unit for observation. Meredith remains under Police guard as investigations continue.

Jackson’s body was escorted to the mortuary, where a post-mortem examination is expected to be conducted.

Police have launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Team 3 cops victory at inaugural Justice Ian Neville Chang Mooting Competition

After a fiercely contested legal battle marked by sharp advocacy and strategic argumentation, Team Three –comprising Judah Ferreira, Jennylyn Edwards, and Kelisha Mentore –emerged as champions of the inaugural Justice Ian Neville Chang Mooting Competition, hosted by the Moot Court Guyana (MCG).

MCG is a student-led organisation within the Department of Law of the Faculty of Social Sciences of the University of Guyana (UG). MCG is dedicated to enhancing the advocacy skills of Bachelor of Laws (LLB) students through debates, mooting competitions, impromptu speak-

ing competitions, and other advocacy-related competitions. This mooting competition is designed to encourage law students to explore complex legal issues and refine their advocacy skills, alternating yearly between Criminal Law and Constitutional Law scenarios.

In the finals, Team One (Shamar Sukhu, Fabian Green, and Jagnanand Jailal) faced Team Three (Ferreira, Edwards, Mentore) in a compelling match-up in which Team Three emerged victorious with 72.5 points, narrowly edging out Team One, who scored 70 points.

Judah Ferreira was awarded Best Advocate,

and Kelisha Mentore received the award for Best Researcher.

The finals were held on

Thursday, last was presided over by Justice Peter Hugh.

The scenario was crafted by Attorney-at-Law Chevy Devonish, and the round was witnessed by several members of the judiciary, including acting Chief Justice, Roxane George SC and acting Chancellor of the Judiciary Yonette Cummings-Edwards, along

lighted Justice Chang’s extensive contributions to the legal landscape and commended the students for their bravery and performance in the competition. Maharaj shared a deeply personal tribute to Justice Chang, describing how Chief Justice was not merely an occupation for him but an integral part of his identity. She recalled his deep

a rare case hidden among his meticulously organised books. She emphasised how he valued substance over formality and frequently held informal legal seminars for both junior and senior lawyers, always eager to share his insights. These are the very qualities that Justice Ian Neville Chang Foundation aims to inspire in upcoming legal professionals.

In addition to partnering with MCG, the Justice Ian Neville Chang Foundation awards prizes annually to the top Criminal and Constitutional Law students from UG, as well as to the best performers in Civil and Criminal Procedure and Practice at the Hugh Wooding Law School, both institutions that Justice Chang attended.

The Foundation has also earmarked a building to be developed into a Legal Research Centre, providing a space for students and young lawyers to access

with practicing attorneys and other distinguished guests.

At the closing ceremony, both Justice Benjamin and Yogini Maharaj, a representative of the Chang family, delivered remarks.

Justice Benjamin high-

passion for the law, how he would purchase new legal texts as soon as they were released and study them extensively, often highlighting nearly every page. She recounted a memory where, during her own studies, he effortlessly directed her to

a wide range of legal resources. Furthermore, the Foundation is in the process of compiling and publishing Justice Chang’s most impactful decisions for the benefit of the legal community.

28 persons living with disability receive business management training

The Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD) in partnership with the Small Business Bureau (SBB) and with support from ExxonMobil Guyana on Wednesday held a one-day entrepreneurship and small business management training workshop for 28 persons who are blind and visually impaired from Regions Two, Three, Four, Six and 10. The workshop was held in the conference room of the National Library, Georgetown.

In his presentation GCOPD Programme Manager, Ganesh Singh un-

derscored the importance of persons who are blind and visually impaired attaining financial independence. He also highlighted the impact of the GCOPD ExxonMobil funded Orientation and Mobility programme on the lives of persons who are blind and visually impaired.

Additionally, Deputy Chief Executive Officer (DCEO) of SBB Simon Pollard highlighted the various training programmes and loan facilities available through the SBB. He also informed the participants of the special interest free loan facility available to persons with disabilities. Pollard encouraged

the participants to apply for the interest free loan which has benefited twenty-seven (27) persons with disabilities since its launch.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the funder ExxonMobil Chricell Whitney, who said that the company’s commitment to empower persons with disabilities through their various community initiatives.

She said, “for ExxonMobil Guyana and community investment, we're all about supporting initiatives that make a real difference, including for vulnerable groups.

Retired Justice Kenneth Benjamin; Justice Peter Hugh; Justice Jacqueline Josiah-Graham; acting Chief Justice Roxane George, SC, and acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Yonette CummingsEdwards; participants and members of MCG
From left to right: Acting Chancellor, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards presenting the 1st place trophy to Team 3, consisting of Kelisha Mentore, Judah Ferreira and Jennylyn Edwards

MODEC given greenlight by Exxon to begin designing FPSO for Hammerhead project

…company aiming for earliest start-up date in 2029

Japanese company

MODEC has been given the greenlight to begin designing and eventually build a Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel for the Hammerhead project, which will be ExxonMobil’s seventh oil development in

FPSO vessel, which will have a capacity to produce 150,000 barrels of oil per day, in phase one of the construction process.

ect startup in 2029, should the project receive the necessary Government approvals.”

the Stabroek Block.

It was announced by MODEC that it was awarded a Limited Notice to Proceed (LNTP) contract by ExxonMobil, to build the FPSO vessel. The Hammerhead project, which has an earliest start-up date of 2029, has not yet been approved by the Government.

As such, the LNTP contract allows MODEC to proceed with the design of the

According to a statement from the company, phase two of the project, which is the actual construction and installation of the vessel, will be subject to regulatory approvals and project sanction by Exxon and its partners.

“Phase one encompasses Front-End Engineering and Design (FEED) while phase two covers Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Installation (EPCI). The LNTP allows MODEC to start activities related to the FPSO design to ensure the earliest possible proj-

“The performance of the second phase (i.e., construction and installation) is subject to Government and regulatory approval as well as project sanction by ExxonMobil Guyana Limited and its Stabroek Block co-venturers,” the company explained, adding that they will also be able to manage the maintenance of multiple FPSO’s under a long-term contract.

The statement also quoted MODEC Group President and CEO Hirohiko Miyata, who expressed optimism for the project and the opportunity to build a second FPSO for Exxon’s local operations.

"We are incredibly honored and excited to have been awarded this contract. It is a testament to our team's dedication, expertise, and commitment to delivering innovative and reliable offshore floating solutions.”

“We look forward to collaborating closely with ExxonMobil Guyana to ensure the successful delivery of this second FPSO, contributing to the advancement of the offshore energy sector in Guyana,” he said.

The Hammerhead FPSO will have the capacity to produce 150,000 barrels of oil per day (BOPD), along with associated gas and water. It will be moored at a water depth of approximately 1,025 metres. MODEC is also building the Errea Wittu FPSO, which is earmarked for ExxonMobil Guyana’s fifth development, the Uaru project.

The Environmental

West Berbice man perishes...

Crawford said it is still too early to say what may have caused the fire, as the investigation is ongoing.

Meanwhile, back in February 2024, the publication had reported that residents of the village were alleging that a man who might be mentally ill has been terrorising the community through ran -

dom verbal and physical attacks and were pleading with authorities to intervene.

They reported that the attacks had been occurring periodically since 2016.

Worrying residents had said that the police have on some occasions responded to the reports. However, permanent solutions have

never been provided.

CCTV footage from reported incidents shows a man from the very house that was burnt throwing objects.

Meanwhile, residents said that Moriah would normally use wood as fuel to cook, and on Monday seemed very agitated. (G4)

28 persons living with...

To see this added component of small business management training, going beyond just living skills is driving this vulnerable group’s empowerment even further.”

The 28 participants were exposed to training in the areas of small business registration, functions of man-

agement, small business marketing, among other areas in the management of a small business.

The entrepreneurship/ small business management workshop is a component of the GCOPD ExxonMobil funded Orientation and Mobility training programme for persons who are

blind and visually impaired. Since the commencement of the programme approximately seven hundred (700) persons who are blind and visually impaired were taught independent living skills such as how to use the “white cane”, use smart phones with text to speech softwares, etc.

Protection Agency (EPA) has meanwhile started its assessment of the Hammerhead Development, which is expected to feature up to 30 wells and reportedly has better reservoirs than previous developments.

President of ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL), Alistair Routledge had earlier this year rated the Hammerhead project, as a strong market prospect with the potential to produce even better-quality oil than the Liza fields.

He had explained that while the American Petroleum Institute (API) rating for the Hammerhead crude was measured at between 20 and 25, the reservoirs are potentially better than Liza One and Two developments.

Exxon, through its local subsidiary ExxonMobil Guyana, is the operator of the Stabroek Block and holds 45 per cent interest in the Block. Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd holds 30 per cent interest, and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CNOOC Limited, holds

the remaining 25 per cent interest.

The Liza Phase One, Liza Phase Two and Payara projects, which are producing overall more than 600,000 barrels of oil per day, account for the three FPSO vessels operating in Guyana’s offshore Stabroek Block.

One week ago, Guyana welcomed the arrival of the One Guyana FPSO into local waters. Built by SBM Offshore, the One Guyana FPSO will support ExxonMobil Guyana’s Yellowtail development in the prolific Stabroek Block. As a matter of fact, necessary installation activities for the One Guyana FPSO vessel have already begun, following the vessel’s arrival.

MODEC Group President and CEO Hirohiko Miyata
The Hammerhead project

Look for alternatives when facing negativity. A backup plan will offer peace of mind and ensure you won't lose time or damage your reputation. Patience, precision and a positive attitude are necessary.

Make a to-do list and embark on taking care of business and freeing up time to nurture yourself and meaningful relationships. Refuse to let anyone exploit you or bait you into a no-win situation.

Do the groundwork and avoid conflict. Today, take time to prepare and look out for yourself. Refuse to let the changes others make confuse you or disrupt your agenda.

Stop talking and start doing. Your words will have no merit if you are all talk and no play. Obliterate bad habits and replace them with proper diet, exercise and a positive attitude.

Refuse to get upset over nothing. If you don't like what's happening, do something about it. Complaining won't help, but actions and enforcing the changes that can improve your life will.

Detail, precision and a modest budget will produce positive results. Refuse to let anyone talk you into overdoing it or overspending. Question and verify the information you receive.

It's best to get approval to avoid bailouts or setbacks. Stick to facts and question any information you receive. It's nice to give a picturesque adaptation, but don't promise the impossible.

Take time to acquaint yourself with interesting people. Focus your energy on lively discussions. Getting closer to someone who can assist you will encourage a joint venture.

Note how others react. Address problems and discrepancies. What you see and what someone is telling you may differ. A financial gain is apparent, but so is overspending. Easy come, easy go.

Keep personal information to yourself. Someone will twist your words or mislead you if you aren't specific. Establishing how you feel and what you want is in your best interest.

Concentrate on your health and well-being. Protect your reputation and keep your thoughts to yourself. Update your skills to ensure you can keep up in a competitive market.

Cap your spending, simplify your life and eliminate things you no longer need, want or use. Rethink what brings you joy and take responsibility for your happiness.

ARCHIE

KIndian Premier League 2025…

Delhi Capitals defeat Lucknow Super Giants to close gap with Gujarat Titans

as Mukesh four-for sets up comfortable win

L Rahul was unavailable when Delhi Capitals (DC) met Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) earlier in IPL 2025. But coming up against LSG for the first time since they parted ways, Rahul anchored DC's chase with a half-century, and guided them home, along with his captain Axar Patel.

DC have thus closed the gap with table-toppers Gujarat Titans, and now only net run rate is separating the two teams.

DC's win was set up by Mukesh Kumar, who claimed IPL career-best figures of 4 for 33 to restrict LSG to 159 for 6, after they were 87 without loss in the tenth over. LSG captain Rishabh Pant bizarrely didn't walk out to bat until his team was five down,

with a reverse-ramp next ball, and ended up deflecting the ball back on to the stumps off his pads for a duck.

Rahul vs LSG IPL owners often summon captains to explain the decisions they make, but it usually happens behind closed doors. Live visuals of the LSG owner giving Rahul a dressing down after Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) mowed down 166 in under ten overs went viral last season.

LSG did not retain Rahul after that, and when he ran into them at Ekana, he ex-

nings. He then sealed the chase with a six in the 18th over.

Opener Abishek Porel, who scored 51 off 36 balls for his first fifty of the season, and Axar, also contributed handsomely with the bat for DC.

After DC had lost Karun Nair early, Rahul steadied the innings along with Porel. He was on 19 off 20 balls at one point, but stepped up a gear when he slog-swept Ravi Bishnoi for six. Rahul went

overs, giving away 33 runs in his four overs.

After being asked to bat, LSG had another strong start,

Mukesh masterminds

on to bring up his fifty off 40 balls.

Axar started in fourth gear, and stayed there, as DC wrapped up the win with eight wickets and 13 balls to spare. (ESPNCricinfo)

LSG start well
Mukesh Kumar got two wickets in his first two overs
Aiden Markram got a wicket in the powerplay
KL Rahul laid the foundation in the chase

top flights at Romel & Robin Golf Tournament

The Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) was the scene of thrilling competition on Saturday as the Romel & Robin Golf Tournament teed off, bringing together golfers of all levels in a privately-sponsored event that celebrated both sportsmanship and community.

Privately-backed by golf enthusiasts Romel Bhagwandin and Robin, the tournament was split into three handicap-based flights: 0-4, 5-9, and 10-14, ensuring fair and spirited competition across the board. In the 0-4 flight, Rakesh Harry emerged victorious with a gross score of 37 and a net of 33. He was followed closely by Jaipaul Suknand (37 gross, 33 net) in second place, and Richard Haniff (38 gross, 34 net) in third.

The 5-9 flight saw Max Persaud claim the top spot with a gross of 41 and a net of 33.

Kevin Boodram and Vickram Mohan both posted net scores of 34, and finished in second and

Rakesh Harry won the 0-4 flight, Max Persaud the 5-9 flight, and Hardeo Ganpat the 10-14 flight

third respectively on countback. In the 10-14 flight, Hardeo

stood out with the lowest net score of the day

Ganpat

St Roses High, Covent Garden Secondary victorious in respective finals

Organized by Sports Officer A. Munroe, the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport (MCYS) and the National Sports Commission (NSC), the Cheddi Jagan Memorial Windball Cricket resumed at the National Gymnasium, where Georgetown-area students continued to thrill spectators.

Brickdam Secondary was invited to take the first strike after Tucville Secondary won the toss. Erick Phillips led Brickdam Secondary with 55 runs, including seven sixes, as they scored 104-1. With 24, Dilshan Coach made a contribution.

In response, Tucville was held to 83-2. Shan Raimoon scored 25 and Mark July scored 32, the team's highest scores. David Sardinha, a Brickdam player, took two wickets in the bowling department.

St Roses vs Brickdam Secondary Saint Roses High School faced Brickdam Secondary in the championship game. Noel

30

off a gross of 44 thereby securing first place. Miguel Oviedo (42 gross, 31 net) and Ramesh Gildarie (43 gross, 33 net) rounded out the top three.

Special prizes were awarded to recognize exceptional moments and contributions:

Longest Drive: Max Persaud

Nearest to Pin (NTP): Kevin Boodram

Best Dressed: Ajay Raju

Honest Player: Vishal

Sugrim (Baby) Gross 99

Overall Best Net: Hardeo Ganpat

Overall Best Gross: Rakesh

Harry

During the awards ceremony, co-sponsor Romel Bhagwandin expressed appreciation to the players and the club for making the event a success. He said the tournament was organized to give back to the sport, and to offer golfers a chance to bond over friendly competition.

This is what the game is about: camaraderie, good competition, and growth, Bhagwandin said. He congratulated the winners and acknowledged all participants for making the tournament enjoyable, adding that he looks forward to seeing it become a regular fixture at the club. With high energy, quality performances, and strong community spirit, the Romel & Robin Golf Tournament proved to be a well-received addition to the local golfing calendar.

GCB laments infringement on GHE brand

Saint

Madramootoo of Saint Roses High hit an undefeated 69, which included eight sixes, as they batted first and made 113 for 3. Ezekiel Ramaught ended at 14 not out, while Joshua Sharma provided support with 32. C Newton and Z Gillion each took one wicket. In the second innings, Brickdam could muster only 40 for 5. The leading contributions were Carren Newton with 12 and Erick Phillips with 14. Saint Roses bowling performance was excellent overall. With figures of 1 for 10, N Madramootoo continued to dominate, while Shivay Bissondyal took two wickets. Akeen Lyght and J Sharma each took one wicket, which

contributed to Saint Roses High being named Champions.

Covent Garden vs Camille's Academy Covent Garden Secondary batted first, and scored 118 runs without losing a wicket. With 65 runs in an innings that featured six sixes, T. Ramotar was the standout performer. Rahim provided support with 49 runs.

With Darwin La Rose scoring 25 and Yuvraj Bhagwandin scoring 43, Camille's Academy put up a strong effort to reach a total of 90-5. T Ramotar, A Rohan, and N Ram each took one wicket as Covent Garden Secondary were crowned champions.

The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) has come out against an online entity that is peddling the sale of Guyana Harpy Eagles (GHE) apparel.

In a statement made on Tuesday, the body governing cricket in Guyana clarified that the items bearing the name of the West Indies 4-Day Championship winning team are not legitimate, nor is the seller affiliated with the GCB.

The GCB wrote, “It has come to our attention that an online store is current-

ly marketing and selling products under the registered brand Guyana Harpy Eagles, which is the sole property of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB).

“We wish to make it explicitly clear that these products are not legitimate or original, and the seller is not authorized to manufacture, distribute, or sell any merchandise under the Guyana Harpy Eagles brand.

“The Guyana Cricket Board has issued a formal cease and desist order to the parties involved. The sale

and distribution of counterfeit or unauthorized branded items is illegal, and will result in serious legal consequences.

“We urge the public to refrain from purchasing these unauthorized products, and to report any such activity to the GCB. Only official merchandise from approved distributors should be considered authentic.

“Thank you for your cooperation.”

A look at the apparel with which the GCB has taken umbrage
Covent Garden Secondary
Roses High School
The Winners Row

West Indies Rugby Teams shine at Tropical 7’s Elite Division

secure 2nd, Men finish 4th by points differential

The West Indies Rugby Teams put on stellar performances at the recent Tropical 7’s Elite Division tournament, with the women's team securing an impressive 2nd place finish and the men's team finishing 4th overall.

In an exhilarating display of skill, determination and teamwork, the West

Indies women's team battled their way to the finals, and narrowly missed out on the championship title.

Against formidable opposition by way of the Mac Dowell Academy out of Canada (2024 champions), the West Indies women showcased their speed, agility, and strategic prowess on the field to earn the admiration of fans

and competitors alike.

Meanwhile, the West Indies men's team displayed their competitive spirit and resilience as they faced tough competition throughout the tournament. Despite the challenges, the team fought hard and delivered exceptional performances, earning a well-deserved 4th place finish in the Elite Division.

Kares Caribbean Championship…

Guyanese athletes secure podium position in ‘Island Clash’ 2025

Competitors after the recently concluded Island Clash 2025

Another competition in the Kares Caribbean Championship lineup of events, titled the 'Island Clash', 2025 in partnership with local gym Raw Fitness Aruba, recently concluded with several Guyanese athletes ascending to podium finishes.

The first CrossFit-licensed event to be hosted in Aruba went down from April 1213 at Centro Deportivo Frans Figaroa and Arashi Beach. The competition saw heavy international participation from countries across the globe, including Guyana, Aruba, Bahamas, United Kingdom, USA, Germany, Curacao, Venezuela and Brazil.

53 athletes competed in the weekend’s activities in four categories, name-

Beach, where the first event was 3000m Ski, sand bag cleans, running in the sand, and trail biking.

A total prize pool of over US$26,000 in cash prizes and event wins was up for grabs.

Intermediate Male and Females prizes: 1st - US$3000; 2ndUS$2000; 3rd - US$1000; Event wins - US$250. Scaled Males and Females prizes: 1stUS$2000; 2nd- US$1500; 3rd- US$1000; Event wins- US$200.

Intermediate Individuals

1st - George Dutton (United Kingdom)

2nd- Omisi Williams (Guyana) 3rd- Roley Chandler (Guyana)

Intermediate Females

It was the third CrossFitlicensed event in the Caribbean; the first was hosted in Trinidad and Tobago in August 2024, and the second was hosted in Suriname in December 2024.

Athletes completed 1 event on Saturday and 5 events on Sunday. According to organisers, the event was a great success, with action- packed activities on both days. Further, it was noted that organisers were pleased with the enthusiasm and the turnout from athletes and spectators (250).

As such, fans can look out for another CrossFitlicensed event in another Caribbean country in August

1st- Veronique Antens (Aruba)

2nd- Delice Adonis (Guyana)

3rd- Eliana Gonzalez (Aruba)

Scaled Men

1st- Franklin Castellanos (Venezuela)

2nd- Haresh Rameshwar (Guyana)

3rd- Kevin Rameshwar (Guyana)

Scaled Females

1st - Danielle Van Vlijmen (Curacao)

2nd - Pauline Vackier (Germany)

3rd - Esther Vermeulen (Aruba)

"We couldn't be prouder of our rugby teams for their outstanding performances at the Tropical 7's Elite Division," said the team's Technical Director Wayne Pantor. "The dedication, passion, and talent of our players were on full display, and we are excited to see what the future holds for West Indies rugby."

Every member of the teams and every management personnel was a true ambassador of the West Indies and of the individual country from whence they came over the period of the tournament.

The success of the West Indies Rugby Team at the Tropical 7's Elite Division is a testament to the hard work and commitment of the players, coaches, and support staff. The teams remain fo-

cused on continuing to elevate their game and represent the West Indies with pride on the international rugby stage. The West Indies Management and players also wish to thank all sponsors for believing in the vision. Full results:

‘One Guyana’ Basketball League…

Royals, Eagles, Renegades, Trojans earn wins

Anumber of games in the ‘One Guyana’ Basketball Premier League have been held at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) over the weekend; and a number of talented players have displayed their abilities in several enjoyable games, both competitive and lopsided.

In a lopsided match, the Royals defeated the Kings handily, owing to the efforts of Haylod Adams (25 points), Daniel Lee (25), and Kobe Tappin (24). The Royals dominated every quarter of the game, and consistently outscored the Kings. The match inevitably ended at 112-50 in the Royals’ favour.

Kwakwani Untouchables and Berbice Renegades opposed each other in a closely contested game. The Renegades got off to a great start, opening a 6-point lead in the first quarter (10-16).

Untouchables stayed in touch and continued to fight, but Renegades had the upper hand going into the half (25-30) – which was a contest of great defence and bad shot selection, as both teams struggled to score points consistently. The Renegades ultimately held off the Untouchables to win the game 50-53.

Marvin Mars top-scored for the Berbice Renegades with

15 points, and was well supported by Malcom Mickle with 12 points.

In a high-scoring contest between the Eagles and the Colts, Zian Gray was excellent in enabling the Eagles to get the better of the Colts, and the Eagles emerged victorious by 85 points to the Colts’ 73.

In the first half, both teams fought hard, and a very good game resulted from an offensive standpoint. The Colts

lost their game against the University of Guyana Trojans, whose captain Kadeem Peterkin led them to a hardfought victory.

After the first quarter, the contest was even, with the scoreline reading 11-11. Trojans then started to build momentum and opened a gap on their opponents in the second quarter, which ended on

were down only 5 points (3732) leading into the 3rd quarter, but the Eagles comfortably pulled away to secure the win.

Despite a game-high 27 points from Renaldo Niles, Guyana Defence Force (GDF)

31-22
Despite GDF's robust effort to come back into the game in the second half, the Trojans comfortably held their lead to win the game 66–56.
University of Guyana in action against the Guyana Defence Force
The West Indies Women’s Rugby team copped second in the Elite competition

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