APNU-appointed Region 4 Chairman backs PPP/C for 2025 elections
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, May 28 –03:55h-05:25h and Thursday, May 29 – 03:55h-05:25h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, May 28 –17:30h-19:00h and Thursday, May 29 – 05:15h-06:45h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Rain showers with instances of thunder are expected during the day and at night, with sunshine in the early morning. Temperatures are expected to range between 22 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.
Winds: North-Easterly to Easterly between 1.34 metres and 3.58 metres.
High Tide: 17:32h reaching a maximum height of 2.57 metres.
Low Tide: 11:03h and 23:15h reaching minimum heights of 0.42 metre and 0.69 metre.
GECOM has sufficient time to prepare for elections on Sept 1 – Commissioner
...Opposition Commissioners walk out of statutory meeting
The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has sufficient time to prepare for elections on September 1. This is the position of GECOM commissioner Sase Gunraj, pushing back against claims to the contrary from his Oppositionaligned colleagues.
Though admitting that the actions of the GECOM Chairperson to advise the President is not unlawful, the Opposition-aligned commissioners are claiming that they were blindsided by the announcement and concerned about the Secretariat’s ability to be ready in just over three months.
But ahead of a statutory meeting of GECOM on Tuesday – which the opposition-aligned commissioners ultimately walked out of – Commissioner Gunraj spoke with the media. He emphasised that the GECOM Secretariat has sufficient time to prepare for elections on September 1.
“The constitution contemplates elections to be held in three months or 90 days. And the timeframe that has been set by the President, is in excess of those 90 days. And so, I believe GECOM will and must be ready to hold elections on that date set by the President. And the date for setting an election is the President’s prerogative and no one else’s.”
“This has a historical perspective to it. You would recall after the passage of the No Confidence Motion; the constitution caters for elections to be held within 90 days. At that time, I stood right here and advocated for compliance with that constitutional provision. And today, I will do no different. The timeline has been set and 90 days is more than adequate to comply with all of the timelines, statutory provisions and logistically to execute the elections on the date set.”
According to him, GECOM has already begun many of the key statutory tasks that are required ahead of elections and it’s just a matter of completing them. Gunraj also pointed out that everyone, especially political parties, should be aware of the timeframe within which elections would be due.
No secret
“It’s no secret that elections are due in 2025. I believe that this country and even the wider world, expect elections to be held. So, you have long read in
the media that GECOM has started preparation. There are several fundamental aspects of that process that have already been executed. So, it’s just a matter of continuing that to finality,’ Gunraj further said.
There is a revised workplan submitted by Chief Election Officer (CEO) Vishnu Persaud. Gunraj had explained that this plan would be discussed during the commission's statutory meeting later in the afternoon. However, Gunraj was adamant that there ought to be no statutory roadblocks to meeting the September 1st election date announced by President Dr Irfaan Ali on Sunday.
Opposition’s walkout Gunraj's views on GECOM’s readiness clashed with his Opposition nominated colleagues. At a press conference on Tuesday morning, Commissioners Vincent Alexander and
Charles Corbin claimed that GECOM is not in a state of readiness to conduct elections on September 1.
They complained that the last workplan discussed at the Commission level had a September 22nd date and that this new workplan would result in shortened deadlines. When asked directly whether the issues they raised are legal breaches, however, Corbin admitted that they are not.
He noted that certain timelines are indeed discretionary at the level of GECOM.
“There are two questions wrapped up there. One is whether all of the issues we’ve identified are embedded in law. The answer is no. Some of them are embedded in law. For instance, the issues supportive of contestants, meaning the amount of time you have to appeal and for the court to render a decision, are mandated in law.”
“The issue of how much time you allocate to claims and objections… again, it is discretionary at the level of GECOM… we will continue to engage and make these points at the level of the commission. We’re just hoping there’s some internal response to the concerns raised,” Corbin added.
Despite expressing concern over GECOM’s readiness and a willingness to address the issues internally, however, it would later emerge on Tuesday afternoon that the opposition commissioners walked out
of the statutory meeting.
During his speech at the 59th Independence Flag Raising ceremony at Albion, East BerbiceCorentyne, Region Six on Sunday night, President Dr Irfaan Ali had announced that the official date for the 2025 General and Regional Elections will be September 1, 2025. He had noted that he reached this decision following consultation with GECOM Chairperson, retired Justice Claudette Singh on GECOM’s readiness.
Following his announce
ment, several opposition figures have endorsed the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), including The Citizenship Initiative (TCI) founder Shazam Ally and Region Four Chairman Daniel Seeram. Additionally, United States (US)-sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohammed made the more controversial declaration that he intends to run for President.
GECOM Commissioner Sase Gunraj
GECOM Commissioner Charles Corbin
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Action begins with screening
In the ongoing fight against cervical cancer, the message from Guyana’s health authorities is loud and clear: early screening saves lives. Yet despite national efforts to make screening accessible and affordable, cervical cancer continues to claim too many lives—largely because detection often comes too late.
Recent statistics released by the Health Ministry offer a sobering view. From March 2025 to present, 1307 women were screened for the human papillomavirus (HPV) – the primary cause of cervical cancer –through the Government’s voucher programme. Of those tested, 208 returned positive results, representing 16 per cent of the total. This mirrors last year’s results when 17 per cent of the 12,000 women screened between the ages of 21 and 65 tested positive. These numbers are not just high—they are alarming.
HPV is a silent threat. Most infections show no symptoms and are cleared by the immune system. However, persistent infection with high-risk strains—such as types 33, 39, 52, and 58, which have been notably prevalent in this year’s findings— can lead to the development of abnormal cervical cells and, eventually, cancer. The good news is that HPV-related cervical cancer is preventable. The bad news is that too many women are not taking advantage of screening opportunities until it is too late.
The Health Ministry, through its Maternal and Child Health Department, has demonstrated strong leadership by expanding access to HPV testing and cervical screening. Voucher programmes help reduce the financial barrier that often prevents women – particularly those in rural and hinterland communities – from seeking preventive care. Scientific forums like last week's HPV conference at the Ramada Princess Hotel are also essential in aligning national strategy with international best practices. However, while these initiatives are commendable, they must translate into sustained public engagement.
The challenge now is not only to maintain momentum but to radically increase public participation. Guyana has aligned itself with the World Health Organisation’s 2030 targets to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health threat. These include vaccinating 90 per cent of girls against HPV by age 15, screening 70 per cent of women with a high-performance test by age 35 and again by 45, and ensuring 90 per cent of those diagnosed receive appropriate treatment. These targets are achievable – but only if screening becomes a routine part of women’s health care across the country.
There is a cultural hurdle to overcome. For too long, cervical cancer has been a quiet killer, largely because of misinformation, or simple neglect. The reality is that many women still view screening as something optional, or worse, something shameful. That perception must change. Cervical cancer is not a curse; it is a disease that can be caught early and treated successfully. Silence and inaction are its greatest allies.
The role of healthcare workers in this battle cannot be overstated. As was highlighted during the HPV scientific engagement, they are the ones who go into communities, face resistance, and yet continue to do the vital work of testing, vaccinating, and treating. Their efforts must be supported, expanded, and backed by strong policy and consistent funding.
Moreover, the national conversation must also reflect the evolving science. The transition from the quadrivalent HPV vaccine to the more comprehensive 9-valent vaccine marks a significant improvement in coverage against high-risk strains. Boys are now also included in the national vaccination programme, which is an important step toward herd immunity and gender equity in health.
But the responsibility does not lie with Government alone. Every woman in Guyana between the ages of 21 and 65 should take full advantage of the free or subsidised screenings available. These are not just medical tests, they are potentially life-saving interventions. No woman should lose her life to a disease that is 90 per cent preventable with timely screening and treatment.
Ignoring screening is not an option.
When disaster strikes
May 24 marks the inauguration of Brooklyn Bridge 142 years ago in 1883. We remember in prayer and stand in solidarity with the families of the cadet and the marine who died and the 22 persons who were injured last Saturday night when the 297-footlong Mexican Navy training ship, the Cuauhtémoc, with 277 crew members on board, crashed into the Brooklyn Bridge at around 8.25 pm.
The top parts of the 147-foot-tall ship’s three masts snapped as they hit the bottom of the bridge that connects Brooklyn to Manhattan. Several members of the ship’s crew were seen dangling perilously from ropes to which they had harnessed themselves. The name Cuauhtémoc translates to “Descending Eagle” and refers to the name of the last Aztec Emperor in 1521.
The two who died are 20-year-old cadet América Yamilet Sánchez, who was studying engineering at the Mexican naval academy, and 22-year-old marine Adal Jair Maldonado Marcos. They both fell from the masts to the deck. Mexican authorities said “its naval ship was on a training cruise called the ‘Bicentennial of the Consolidation of
at Sea’. It was meant to dock in New York for just a few days as part of a cultural exchange before setting off to Iceland to continue its journey...The cause of the collision is under investigation by the New York Police Department, the National Transportation Safety Board and the Mexican government” (NBC News). The investigation is likely to take months.
On Saturday, the Cuauhtémoc, which had previously been on four successful global trips, had welcomed visitors since May 13 and was moving from the Seaport to Bay Ridge, in south Brooklyn, to anchor and refuel before setting sail for Iceland, as part of a 15-nation global goodwill tour, when the crash occurred. AP News reports that the tide had just turned, and a fast current was heading up the East River as a 10 mph wind set in. The ship was manoeuvring in turbulent waters when it began travelling in reverse and hit the bridge stern first. “There are also questions about whether a tugboat escort peeled away too soon and should have been rigged to the ship or stayed with it until it headed out to sea...mistakes can be costly in the heavily transited New York harbour,
where narrow, curvy channels, winds howling off the jagged Manhattan skyline and whirlpool-like eddies can combine to make for difficult passage.”
The Mayor of New York City, Eric Adams, said, the ship’s captain lost control because of a mechanical issue, causing the naval training ship’s tall masts to hit the bottom of the bridge connecting Brooklyn to Manhattan.
“Sal Mercogliano, a former merchant mariner who has powered multiple ships through the New York harbour, said all those ‘worst-case scenarios’ — the ship’s height, a strong current, heavy wind and the absence of a more controlled tugboat escort — all contributed to the tragedy” (Britannica).
Mayor Adams said that after a preliminary inspection, the bridge was reopened just after midnight. He said: “We can confirm that the bridge sustained no damage.”
It is worth noting the history of this bridge, which took 14 years to complete. On Memorial Day on May 31, 1883, a week after the bridge was opened, 12 people died and 36 were seriously injured due to a stampede on the bridge. “... A large crowd flocked to the bridge, causing a pedestrian bottleneck ... When a woman fell
down the stairs, another woman screamed, inducing panic in the crowd. According to the New York Times, ‘In a moment the whole stairway was packed with dead and dying men, women and children piled upon another in a writhing, struggling mass’” (Wikipedia).
The Brooklyn Bridge, considered to be “a brilliant feat of 19th-century engineering,” was the first suspension bridge to use steel for cable wire. It was the longest bridge in the world “until the completion of the Firth of Forth cantilever bridge in Scotland in 1890.”
It is the work of Germanborn American civil engineer, John Augustus Roebling, who died of tetanus at the beginning of the bridge’s construction, as a result of an accident on site. His son, Washington Roebling, “suffered a crippling attack of decompression sickness (caisson disease) after taking over as chief engineer.” Confined to his apartment, he “continued to direct operations with the help of his wife, Emily Warren Roebling... At least 20 workers were killed during construction, and many more suffered decompression sickness” (Britannica).
May all those who lost their lives rest in peace.
(T&T Guardian)
President Dr Irfaan Ali shares a light moment playing cricket with a young boy during a recent outreach to Lima Sands, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) (President Ali’s social media page photo)
Independence
Govt to invest in drone technology to boost security – Pres Ali …AI-driven
threat detection systems to also be rolled out
In order to improve the local security sector including border defence, the Guyana Government will be investing in drone technology and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven threat detection systems.
Making this revelation was President Dr Irfaan Ali, during his address to the nation in observance of the country’s 59th Independence Anniversary celebrations. According to the Head of State, technology will play key rolls in beefing up Guyana’s security systems.
“The national security transformation will see technology driving our security architecture. Satellite, radar, drone technology, AI-driven threat detection and intelligence analysis,” the President said.
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) have already initiated the use of drones to boost security. The agencies initiated a joint operation called ‘Eyes in the Sky’ which involved the use of drones to boost security presence in the city.
This operation involves the use of drones, which may be seen flying low in some areas. In April 2024, it had been announced that ‘Eyes in the Sky” would run for one month, during which time, there would be an increased Police presence. Roadblocks, stopand-search exercises, traffic enforcement, roving patrols, and raids will be conducted.
The Government has also been rolling out its
‘Safe Country’ initiative. In this year’s budget, a sum of $108.7 billion was allocated to strengthen public safety and security in 2025. It had been announced that this funding would go towards a variety of initiatives, including the construction of new police stations and outposts; and the continuation of the development of the state-of-the-art Brickdam Police Station.
As part of the Government’s push to modernise policing, $6.2 billion was allocated for the continuation of the Safe Country Initiative, which is designed to improve crime detection and prevention through technology.
Already, the initiative has seen the completion of over 400 Intelligent Video Surveillance (IVS)
sites across Regions Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, and 10, with 320 additional IVS sites planned for 2025.
Border security
Meanwhile, President Ali also affirmed during the flag raising ceremony that Guyana’s investment in its security sector is intended
to safeguard its people and resources. The President further noted that investments in the security sector will focus on enhanced border security.
“We are not aggressors. We are protectors. But let no one mistake our peacefulness for weakness. If our sovereignty is challenged, if our land is threatened, we shall rise as One Nation, One People, One Destiny. We shall rise not in fear, but in fierce loyalty to the land that gave us birth and which we love unconditionally,” he emphasised.
A fair perspective for 1st time voters
Dear Editor,
For the young people of Guyana, this election season is more than just a political event. It is a time where your choices contribute to shape this country’s future which in return impacts you and your family, especially with Guyana being on a verge of transformational change. Five years ago, I became eligible to vote at the General and regional elections. This made me even more curious to examine who would secure my vote. These are the questions I asked myself: How will my vote impact my community especially the most vulnerable? What are the party’s track records in terms of development in key sectors like health, education and the economy and have they delivered on it?
Have I fact-checked the nar-
rative they speak on? These are the first set of questions you should also ask yourself. Confidently, after reading the various manifestos I placed my trust in the PPP/C’s regime in 2020 and it is my view that they have delivered beyond. It is very visible though many may want to stifle their conscience. In fact, what the PPP/C has demonstrated was stern commitment to building a better nation after inheriting the economy in a state of neglect. This administration is the only one that has delivered on all of its manifesto promises. From major infrastructural investments to institutional strengthening, their work reflects a broader vision that demonstrated love for people of all class and corners of this country. Many will come to you with “sweet” words, “good
gyaffs” and promises but those does not mean anything or should not be a factor of assurance. Look for tangible contributions and ask them about their track records. Look at what happened in 2015 for instance. Elections is all of our business and this is the time to scrutinise each political contestant and carefully appoint them. Apart from track record, take into consideration the repercussion of what would happen if a democratic country with oil riches were to get a President who is sanctioned by the US Government. We would end up like countries like Venezuela, Sudan and Iran. This would shake us up as a country. It means that we would endure major international fallouts like financial restrictions especially when the sanctions are imposed
by the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) since these go beyond just targeting an individual. We would face blocked access to the US Banking system, Derisking by international banks, Restrictions on sovereign debt and credit ratings to name a few. Note, that this is not all, we will face investment freeze in which the country is likely to collapse in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Multi nationals may even withdraw or suspend operations to avoid entanglements with such people. We may also pay endure increased reliance on domestic borrowing since we will now be unable to borrow externally which intern can lead to major hyperinflation. And these are just a few on a macro level. Let alone if we do decide to dive
Region 3 Private Sector welcomes announcement of September 2025 elections
Dear Editor,
The Region Three Private Sector Inc (R3PSInc) acknowledges and welcomes the official announcement by His Excellency Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, that General and Regional Elections will be held on Monday, September 1, 2025. This announcement reaffirms Guyana’s steadfast commitment to democratic governance, constitutional rule, and the preservation of civil liberties — principles that are foundational to our nation’s progress and prosperity.
The R3PSInc lauds President Ali for his exem-
plary leadership throughout his tenure, particularly during the challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic. Even amidst global uncertainty, Guyana emerged as the fastest-growing economy, a testament to prudent governance, sound economic management, and resilience under pressure. We further commend the President for launching the transformative “One Guyana” initiative, which seeks to foster national unity and inclusivity by strategically utilising national resources to empower all citizens, with particular emphasis on women, Indigenous peoples, and young people. This bold vision is ground-
ed in the principles of inclusivity and shared prosperity, emphasising community development and economic advancement across all regions.
As the nation prepares for this important democratic exercise, the R3PSInc stands resolutely in support of free, fair, and transparent elections.
We urge all stakeholders, political leaders, civil society, the private sector, and citizens, to embrace the electoral process with the dignity, responsibility, and unity that have come to define the Guyanese spirit.
Elections are not just about choosing leaders; they are about renewing our
shared commitment to democracy, justice, and national development. A peaceful and credible electoral process will ensure that the momentum built over the past years continues to propel Guyana forward.
The R3PSInc remains ready to partner with all levels of Government and the Guyanese people to ensure stability, economic resilience, and opportunity for all. Together, let us continue to build a nation where every citizen has a voice, every vote counts, and every future is filled with promise.
Sincerely,
Region Three Private Sector Inc (R3PSInc)
into the micro- economic side of things. September 1st is an important date in this country because your voices, concerns and future are directly tied to the decisions being made. You have that power. And by exercising that power you are strengthening democracy, advocating for marginalised voices, setting the tone for the next five years. Remember your future is on that ballot. Make the right choice. Ignore the outside noise.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 28, 2025
Regards, Sachin Persaud
Page Foundation
Adriana Younge’s drowning
No evidence of foul play – Canadian expert finds; no evidence of restraint, struggle, removal & return of body
The death of 11-yearold Adriana Younge has been officially ruled a drowning, with no signs of foul play, according to the final post-mortem report submitted to the Guyana Police Force (GPF) by a team of three internationally accredited pathologists. The young girl’s body was discovered on April 24 in the swimming pool of the now gutted Double Day International Hotel, just a day after she was reported missing. Despite her family's insistence that the pool had been searched multiple times and their concerns regarding potential foul play, the forensic experts have concluded that Adriana's death was consistent with drowning and bore no evidence of trauma, sexual assault, or criminal activity.
The post-mortem report also aligns with findings investigation by Leonard McCoshan, a retired Royal Canadian Mounted Police officer, who stated there was “no evidence of foul play by
persons named or unnamed during the investigation.”
According to a statement from GPF, the comprehensive autopsy, which included toxicology and DNA analysis, found that there were “no signs of acute trauma or physical injury, ethanol levels consistent with postmortem decomposition, no evidence of sexual assault, skin and airway changes consistent with prolonged submersion and no signs of restraint or the body being removed and returned”.
Investigators now believe Adriana likely sank to the bottom of the pool after drowning and surfaced later as decomposition caused the body to rise, a process well-documented in tropical climates.
The police are currently finalising their case file, which will be submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for legal review. While the case has generated significant public scrutiny and emotional outpouring, the police force has
The Guyana Police Force wishes to confirm that the death of 11-year-old Adriana Younge has been officially ruled a drowning, with no signs of foul play, according to the final post-mortem report submitted today by the three internationally renowned Pathologists to investigators.
Younge’s body was discovered on April 24, 2025, in the swimming pool of the Double Day International Hotel. The certified findings from the autopsy confirmed that her death was consistent with drowning, and no evidence of trauma, assault, or any other criminal activity was found.
Moreover, the above findings support an earlier report submitted by Mr. Leonard McCoshan (retired) Royal Canadian Mounted Police investigator who concluded that there is "no evidence of foul play by persons named or unnamed during the
reiterated its commitment to transparency and justice.
In a statement, the GPF extended condolences to Adriana’s family and acknowledged the grief that has followed this deeply distressing event.
These developments follow the confirmation of a second autopsy investigation to be performed on Younge’s body in the United States (US).
investigation."
Adriana, a female of mixed ancestry, was reportedly last seen by her grandmother at approximately 13:01 hours on April 23, 2025, in the hotel’s swimming pool. Her body was found floating in the same pool the following morning.
Upon learning of the incident, the Guyana Police Force launched a thorough investigation. The child’s family raised several concerns, citing her ability to swim and alleging the possibility of sexual assault, forced drowning elsewhere, and ritualistic activity. These concerns were taken seriously and fully explored in collaboration with forensic experts.
A comprehensive postmortem examination, including toxicology and DNA testing, was carried out. Key findings include:
Govt to invest in drone...
“Greater presence at our border through technology and human assets, investments in maritime, aerial and terrestrial assets, enabling confidence and trust in the security system… we shall defend this nation with every beat of our hearts, every muscle in our bodies, every fibre of our souls. We will never waver, never falter, never surrender,” he also said.
Ali had also spoken about the rolling out of digital solutions for traffic safety, digitised case management, cyber resilience
and building human capital. The President added that these measures must be implemented under circumstances and conditions through which the country’s security architecture is more service-oriented and community-led.
“All of this will be done whilst empowering our men and women in uniform, giving them more benefits. Building our human capital is giving them a good standard of living and good access to training opportunities also,” he noted, adding that the
government will be leveraging its regional partnerships in CARICOM, South America and SOUTHCOM in order to tackle crime.
Following the president’s address, the GDF Ship, GDFS SHAHOUD embarked on a maritime patrol of the nation’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The GDF noted that this operation, termed the “Independence Sail,” serves as a timely symbol of national sovereignty and an ongoing, commitment to the protection of Guyana’s maritime boundaries.
On Monday, the body of 11-year-old Adriana Younge arrived in the US for a second autopsy – even after three international pathologists - conducted by a team of three internationally recognised pathologists, including Dr Glenn Rudner, Dr Gary Collins, and Dr Shubhakar Karra Paulhave already pronounced that the child died as a result of drowning.
2nd autopsy
The child’s remains were flown out of Georgetown via the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA). The flight made its first stop in Miami before continuing to Atlanta, where two US-based pathologists will conduct another forensic review. The family has sought the second autopsy after rejecting the findings of three internationally recognised pathologists – one of whom they themselves had requested and the Government of Guyana flew in at their request.
Public terror
What began as calls for justice in April escalated into chaos as protest actions were hijacked by criminal elements, who ignited roadways, looted businesses, and terrorised communities across Georgetown, East Bank Demerara (EBD), West Bank Demerara (WBD), East Coast
● No signs of acute injury or trauma were present.
● Toxicology results showed ethanol levels consistent with postmortem decomposition.
● Sexual assault kit and DNA analysis for potential suspects were negative.
● Skin and airway changes were in line with prolonged submersion and drowning.
● There was no evidence of restraint, struggle, removal, and return of the body.
and other areas.
Following swift police operations and nationwide arrests, dozens of accused individuals have appeared before various Magistrates, including Senior Magistrate Fabyo Azore, to face indictable charges of terrorism under the Criminal Law (Offences) Act.
According to the GPF, over 100 persons have been arrested in relation to the unrest, and more individuals are likely to be charged in the coming days. Under the Act, persons can be fined no less than $500,000, and would be imprisoned for no less than 10 years nor more than 15 years.
Under the law, anyone who conspires or attempts to commit or advocates, aids and abets; or advises or incites; or knowingly facilitates the commission of a terrorist act, or commits an offence, shall be punished for the offence as if s/he had been guilty as an offender.
The Pathologists concluded that Adriana Younge drowned, likely sank to the bottom of the pool, and later surfaced due to natural decomposition processes common in tropical climates.
The detectives are currently preparing the investigative case file for submission to the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) for her perusal and legal opinion.
The Guyana Police Force extends heartfelt condolences to the Younge family and remains committed to transparency and justice.
Demerara (ECD), Berbice,
Drowned: 11-year-old Adriana Younge
The nuts…
…and presidential fruits
Prezzie had just barely announced the elections date –Sept 1, in case you were under a rock since the dawning of Independence Day 2025 – and all sorts of effects rippled forth. There was the stunned dropping of jaws in the Opposition camp caught off guard – and with their pants down. It wasn’t a pretty sight!! These are grown-ass men and women who’d been dithering around for over three years and couldn’t decide how to get it on to face the PPP!!
But his bombshell also sussed out one of the fly-by-night presidential wannabes who sprout up like jumbie umbrellas around general elections. But sadly, like mushrooms in general that gotta be kept in the dark and fed on shit, these attention seekers serve as entertainment for the masses more than anything else!! You know they ain’t going nowhere –they know they ain’t going nowhere – but the fun is watching them collapse ignominiously and disappear forever.
Your Eyewitness remembers when free and fair elections returned to Guyana in 1992 and about TWENTY jumbie umbrellas sprouted around the two old standbys – the PPP and PNC!! One was headed by a fast talker by the name of Lindley Geborde – who persuaded a whole lotta people that he was a multi-millionaire from America . His tag line was “The Eagle has landed”!! Implying – wink, wink - he’d solve all our problems dropping Yankee Dollar bills from planes!! At the elections, his “Union of Guyanese International” got 134 votes!! And have you heard about him??
Well, in another one-man show, a fella by the name of Azruddin Mohamed announced he was gonna contest the elections – after playing “hide and seek” and “hold me, loose me” for a year. “The Kiskadee has landed”!! But Azruddin didn’t have to pretend he has US dollars – he does. The problem is how’d he got them. In the UNEDITED words of the US Treasury Department:
“Azruddin and Mohamed’s Enterprise evaded Guyana’s tax on gold exports and defrauded the Guyanese government of tax revenues by underdeclaring their gold exports to Guyanese authorities. Between 2019 and 2023, Mohamed’s Enterprise omitted more than 10 thousand kilograms of gold from import and export declarations and avoided paying more than US$50 million in duty taxes to the Government of Guyana.
“To conceal their illegal activity and operate with impunity, Azruddin and Mohamed’s Enterprise have engaged in extensive bribery schemes involving government officials in Guyana. This includes providing direct and recurring bribery payments to Guyanese government officials to ensure favorable treatment in criminal or civil matters that would otherwise suggest their involvement in illegal criminal activity. In return, corrupt officials receive cash and gifts for incidents that are overlooked.”
Can the Kiskadee top the Eagle and get more than 134 votes??
…and Mad Maduro
One of the ways you can tell when someone is completely nuts is they live in a world of makebelieve - they talk to people no one else can see; they read books no one can see - and hold elections where nobody votes!! Mad Maduro announced that one of his ex-Admiral loyalists has just won the governorship of Guayana Esequiba – the make-believe name for our Essequibo!! He also announced 21,000 voters had been registered – all of them imaginary since none were from Essequibo and the ex-Admiral had won 4700 – a 23 imaginary percentage!!
Your Eyewitness predicts this imaginary governor – since he wouldn’t be governing anything physical – like his creator Mad Maduro – will now be issuing all sorts of imaginary edicts and proclamations about his imaginary state!! All of this would really be funny excepting for the fact that Mad Maduro and the bunch of nuts around him have some real weapons.
And even madmen’s real guns kill!
…exploiting Adriana
A poor, lovely child drowned. And now because of some far-out conspiracy theory by her relatives, her remains are being used in a “forensic pathologist” shopping expedition that evidently will go on until they get the answer they want.
APNU-appointed Region 4 Chairman backs PPP/C for 2025 elections
The People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R) continues to bleed senior members. This time, the party has lost its Region Four (Demerara Mahaica) Regional Chairman, Daniel Seeram, who on Tuesday threw his support behind the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) for the upcoming elections.
Seeram made the announcement from his social media page, noting that he had “fruitful discussions” with the PPP/C leadership and that following those discussions, he would support them for another term in office.
“After fruitful discussions and careful considerations on matters of National and Regional de-
velopment, I am pleased to endorse President Irfaan Ali and Vice President (VP) Bharrat Jagdeo for a second term to lead the Cooperative Republic of Guyana. God Bless the Cooperative Republic of Guyana,” Seeram said.
In addition to being Chairman of Region Four and a member of the PNC/R, Seeram is also a
former Guyana Defence Force (GDF) captain. The Region Four Chairman is the second high profile figure to publicly endorse the PPP/C since President Ali’s announcement on Sunday that the 2025 General and Regional elections would be held on September 1.
It was revealed only on Sunday that Shazaam Ally, a founding and executive member of The Citizenship Initiative (TCI), would also be joining the ruling PPP/C, ahead of the 2025 General and Regional Elections. In a statement, Ally said the decision came after “careful reflection” and years of observing national development under President Dr Irfaan Ali’s leadership.
“I know this decision may not sit well with everyone,” Ally acknowledged, while stressing that those who know him understand he has “always acted with conviction, guided by principle, and committed to doing what’s right for Guyana.”
Ally entered national politics more than a decade ago and was one of the key figures behind TCI’s debut in the 2020 elections. He later contested the 2023 Local
Government Elections for a seat in Georgetown.
Since 2020, several prominent members of the PNC/R have resigned from the party. In 2021, Thandi McAllister, a longstanding member and Central Executive Committee (CEC) member to boot, resigned.
McAllister, who in addition to former PNCR Parliamentarian and Attorney-at-Law James Bond have since joined the PPP/C platform, had cited that the leadership’s direction was not aligned with the aspirations of young people, party supporters, and national development.
Since her departure, other members also resigned, including former PNC/R Treasurer Faaiz Mursaline and former General Secretary Dawn Hastings-Williams. Additionally, the late Amna Ally, who was a former General Secretary and Minister for the Opposition party, also resigned earlier this year.
At the time she had resigned, Ally had been scathingly critical of Opposition and PNC/R Leader Aubrey Norton and his lack of lead-
ership abilities… a criticism that was further compounded when Norton was a no show at her funeral a couple weeks ago.
In March 2025, General Secretary of the PPP/C, VP Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, had refuted claims made by Norton that resignations from the PNC/R had resulted from bribery done by the ruling party.
Jagdeo had argued that those leaving the PNC/R have made independent assessments of the party’s leadership and future, rather than being influenced by financial incentives. According to the VP, Norton’s misrepresentation of these departures showed how “divorced from reality” he was, especially because of the PNC’s limited engagement with people, and its poor policy formulation.
“Mr Norton should be writing fiction. He said that he is unbothered by the large number of people who have left the party, and he acknowledged that people will continue to leave the PNC, but he said that the members leaving would give him more breathing room…,” Jagdeo had said.
From left: President Dr Irfaan Ali, Region 4 Chairman Daniel Seeram and PPP General Secretary, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo
Bomb attacks on GPL, Police outpost
3
“Spanish-speaking”
foreigners wanted for terrorism
Three male foreign nationals are now on the local police’s radar following an act of terrorism recently on the East Ruimveldt Police outpost and the nearby Guyana Power and Light (GPL) substation.
On Saturday May 17, two explosions at the East Ruimveldt Police Outpost and the GPL Substation along Mandela Avenue, Georgetown raised alarms within the local community with persons miles away claiming to have heard the explosions.
Head of Communications at the Guyana Police Force (GPF) Mark Ramotar could not reveal the nationalities of the wanted individu-
coming from the southern side of the compound. Upon checking the area, she discovered that the metal gate at the back of the building had been completely blown away.
Ranks from the Crime Scene Unit (CSU) were summoned and confirmed that the southern wall of the concrete structure had sustained significant damage. The gate was found about six feet away, twisted and mangled. Nearby residents also reported hearing the twin explosions and then the sound of objects crashing onto their rooftops.
A short time later, police received reports of suspicious damage at the GPL Substation on Mandela
Avenue. Although the nature of the damage has not yet been disclosed in full detail, investigators are examining whether both incidents were carried out by
als, only disclosing “all I can say [is] they are ‘Spanishspeaking’.”
The wanted bulletins were issued after police arrested the driver of the minibus which transported the men to commit the act.
According to a police report, the first blast took place at approximately 00:40h at the East Ruimveldt Police Outpost, located at Vlissengen Square and East Front Road. A police constable on duty at the time recounted hearing two loud explosions
the same perpetrators. The GPF has since contacted several persons of interest, who are reportedly cooperating with investigators. Eyewitness accounts and forensic evidence are now being closely analysed to determine the origin of the explosive devices and identify those responsible. In a statement, the police emphasised that public safety remains a priority and that every effort is being made to bring the culprits to justice.
The three wanted men
The aftermath of the explosion at the East Ruimveldt Police Outpost and the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Substation
Venezuela border controversy Indian MP reiterates support for Guyana
Indian Member of Parliament (MP) Dr Shashi Tharoor has confirmed that India stands firmly in support of a peaceful resolution to the ongoing border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela.
Speaking during a media interactive session on Day two of the Indian Parliamentary Delegation visit to Guyana, Dr Tharoor emphasised that India has been closely monitoring the developments related to the decades-old territorial dispute, particularly the recent proceedings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and diplomatic efforts made between the two South American neighbours.
"Our country has been following very closely this entire painful dispute," Tharoor said. "We were aware that there were diplomatic discussions in December 2023 between the two countries and are aware that there have been discussions at the International Court of Justice. We certainly support a peaceful resolution of this issue,” the MP
noted.
India's reaffirmation of support comes at a critical time, given that Venezuela pushed ahead with controversial internal actions, most recent being the illegal "elections" related to Guyana’s Essequibo region, despite provisional orders from the ICJ instructing it to maintain the status quo and refrain from unilateral provocations.
Additionally, Dr Tharoor comments follow those the Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr Amit Telang, who recently called on Venezuela to honour its commitments under the
Argyle Declaration and refrain from any provocative actions.
“Our position is that they (Venezuela) should strictly abide with that declaration, which is again, the position of the Government of Guyana, and avoid taking any actions which are against the spirit of the declaration, which includes of course, also the election. So, of course, any action which is being taken which is against that declaration is not something that we will support.”
“The matter is already in the International Court of Justice,” Dr Telang stated. “The Government of Guyana
has provided its positions… and made it clear that they will respect whatever judgment would come from the ICJ.”
Back in December 2023, Presidents Irfaan Ali of Guyana and Nicolás Maduro of Venezuela signed the Argyle Declaration in Argyle, St Vincent and the Grenadines. This agreement was facilitated by regional leaders, including Prime Ministers Ralph Gonsalves of St Vincent and the Grenadines and Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica, with support from CARICOM, the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), Brazil, and the United Nations (UN).
Key provisions of the Argyle Declaration include a commitment to non-aggression, the peaceful resolution framework and the establishment of a joint commission comprising Foreign Ministers and technical experts from both countries was to be formed to address mutually agreed matters.
Despite the provisions, Venezuela continues to use aggressive tactics against Guyana, including plans to unlawfully elect a Governor and legislative council of “Guayana Esequiba
State”, which is the name the Spanish-speaking nation has given to Guyana’s Essequibo region. When asked whether India would support Guyana in the event of Venezuelan aggression, the High Commissioner said India’s assistance would be based on an official request from the Guyanese Government.
“It depends on what kind of support the Government of Guyana wants from us,” Dr Telang explained. “We are strong partners and we will continue to support Guyana.” Pressed for specifics, he declined to speculate on the nature of potential support, saying, “I would not like to comment on a hypothetical situation. Let us wait… but once support is requested, India is ready.”
The Government has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Guyana’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, while also seeking accountability through diplomatic channels.
Earlier this month, President Dr Irfaan Ali had reaffirmed that the GDF is mobilised and prepared to defend the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity amid ongoing tensions with Venezuela.
The Head of State emphasised that security operations are actively underway, particularly in light of Venezuela’s upcoming unlawful elections and continued claims over Guyana’s Essequibo region, claims which Guyana has consistently rejected and challenged through international legal avenues.
After years of failed good offices process through the UN, and based on the recommendation of the-then UN Secretary General, Guyana approached the World Court in March 2018, seeking a final and binding settlement of the 1899 Arbitral Award, which determined the land boundary between Guyana and Venezuela.
The case is currently pending before the ICJ, which has already established its jurisdiction to hear the matter. Guyana has already filed two written pleadings on the merits, and Venezuela has filed one, with its second pleading due in August 2025. Oral hearings are expected in the first half of 2026, following which the Court will deliberate on the case and issue its final judgment on the Merits, which will be binding on the parties.
Indian Member of Parliament, Dr Shashi Tharoor
Elections 2025 set for September 1 –President Irfaan Ali has kept his promise
Elections 2025 set for September
1 – President Irfaan Ali has kept his promise
For Elections 2025 in Guyana, keeping promises will be a major election issue. For Elections 2025, the issue of making and keeping promises will loom larger than the usual pattern. In the last decade, Guyana’s Government has been under the stewardship of two different political forces. Between 2015 and 2020, the Government was the PNCled APNU/AFC under President David Granger. Between 2020 and 2025, the Government was under the PPP led by President Irfaan Ali.
Summarising the performances of these two political forces in their most recent terms in government boils down to one simple truth: the PNC-led APNU/AFC made many promises in its manifesto and on the political platform during the Elections 2015 campaign and kept none; the PPP made many promises and kept all and went beyond Elections 2020 manifesto promises.
The two major political parties in Guyana have different track records when it comes to elections in Guyana. In the 2019/2020 period, David Granger and the PNC-led APNU/AFC violated the sacred promise of holding elections within constitutionally-mandated timelines. In 2025, President Ali and the PPP have kept their promise to hold elections within the constitutionally stipulated time. The two major political parties have different track records when it comes to keeping promises, with the PNC, invariably, failing to keep promises made, and the PPP, always keeping promises.
Elections 2025 will be conducted on September 1, 2025.It will be exactly five years since the convening of the 12th Parliament. Elections 2025 is within the constitutional deadline which is December 1, 2025. Our last election –Elections 2020 – was held almost a year after it was constitutionally mandated. After the December 21, 2018 No-Confidence Motion was successful in Parliament, elections were due in March 2019. But Granger and the APNU/ AFC delayed the elections until March 2020, a whole year after. President Irfaan Ali and VP Bharrat Jagdeo had repeatedly stated that Elections 2025 will be held in accordance with the constitutional timeline. They have kept this sacred promise.
Guyanese can expect that President Irfaan Ali, VP Bharrat Jagdeo and the PPP members will remind people over and over that the PPP kept every one of its promises made in the Elections 2020 manifesto and during the campaign. In fact, the PPP not only exceeded the promises made, but in many instances went beyond the promises. Because they kept the many promises they made in 2020, the PPP enters the Elections 2025 campaign with a formidable track record.
Education is now free from nursery to university and more young people benefit from scholarships for vocational training and from undergraduate degrees to PhDs. More people own their own homes and personal vehicles, more people are employed, more people own their own businesses. The Government is internationally recognised for protecting Guyana’s environment, building world-class infrastructure – ensuring that all community streets are upgraded to concrete and asphalt structures – and keeping Guyana’s economy strong in a world where global economies are facing challenging times and many are in turmoil.
In contrast, the PNC-led APNU/AFC will have to defend a track record of failure and broken promises. They broke every single one of the promises they made in their manifesto and in the 2015 campaign. For example, they promised not to close any sugar estate; they ended up closing four sugar estates and was well-advanced in their plans to close the sugar industry altogether. They promised free university education, double the income tax threshold, double pension and give workers a 20% increase in their first 100 days. They not only failed, but they ended up increasing university fees, increase the income tax threshold by a mere 30% over five years, gave themselves 100% pay increase, while telling the workers to wait, pensions barely increased. In short, they made many promises; they often did the opposite of what they promised. In the next three months, politicians will traverse the country making promises and some time before the election, the parties will publish manifestos full of promises. Guyanese have become much more demanding of their politicians; they will no longer just take for granted the things they are promised. They will scrutinise the parties, checking to see if their track records align with their promises.
This column warns political leaders and their parties that the Guyanese people are tired searching for honesty in a snake pit.
There was a reason the David Granger-led PNC-led APNU/AFC, with the benefits of incumbency, in Elections 2020, lost badly. They took people for granted, spent five years in Government, kept not a single promise, and could not point to a single achievement. They inherited many projects and did not complete any. The Cheddi Jagan International Airport modernisation and expansion project was already funded, already under construction when they came into Government; the PPP came back into Government to complete a project they started. Several highways, several schools and other major projects the PNC-led APNU/AFC inherited from the pre-2015 PPP Government were never completed; the PPP came back into Government in 2020 and completed them. This is a horrendous track record to go to the people with.
There are many reasons why the popular notion around Guyana and among international observers is that the Irfaan Ali-led PPP Government will secure a bigger victory at the polls in Elections 2025. The question is not whether the PPP will secure victory, it is whether they will exceed the 36 seats the PPP won under President Bharrat Jagdeo in 2006.
The Opposition is already desperate. After they got caught trying to thief the elections in plain sight in 2020, they then tried desperately, but clumsily, to sell the narrative that thousands of dead people left the cemeteries and thousands of phantoms appeared and voted for the PPP. Already, we have a signal which excuse they will use in 2025 – Nigel Hughes is testing the excuse of 100,000 Venezuelans waiting to vote.
Police seize over 4KG ganja at Cove and John
An intelligence-led operation conducted by ranks from the Cove and John Police Station on Monday led to the seizure of over four kilograms (kg) of marijuana and the arrest of two men. According to police reports, at about 13:00h on Monday the ranks acting on information received, intercepted a black Fielder wagon bearing registration plate, PAH 4620, which was parked on the southern side of the on the Cove and John public road.
Police said that two men, a 23-year-old taxi driver of Paradise, West Coast Berbice (WCB) and a 34-year-old construc- tion worker of Number 9 Village, WCB, were in the
vehicle at the time.
During a search in the presence of both men, officers discovered a black plastic bag in the trunk. The bag contained three large wrapped parcels with leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis. The suspects were informed of the offence, cautioned, and subsequently arrested. The vehicle and the narcotics, were escorted to the Cove and John Police Station where it was weighed and amounted to 4,040 grams (equivalent to 8.90lbs). The suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.
Dr Leslie Ramsammy
The drugs that were intercepted by Police
Monthly Magistrate visits, new courts, upgraded lockups boost hinterland justice access – AG
Access to justice for residents of hinterland regions has significantly improved under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration. This was stated by Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall during his address at the National Toshao’s Conference (NTC). According to the Minister, this improvement is the result of enhanced living conditions, which will ultimately lead to greater participation of individuals in Magistrates’ court.
“You know that as recently as five years ago, Magistrates used to sit once every quarter [of the year] in your community. When a man was remanded, the next time the magistrate would return to revisit that remand order would be four months later. So, persons would automatically spend a quarter of a year in prison. Very unfair. That will not happen anymore.”
He added, “Magistrates now go once a month and
stay for two, three, even four days because they have adequate living quarters right there. We have large facilities for clerical staff, for the payment of child support, and for all the other matters that go on in court.”
He also highlighted that infrastructural upgrades have been made
to lockups, which are now equipped with air conditioning and other amenities to improve conditions for detainees.
“The lockups are very comfortable. Some of them are air-conditioned. But I'm not encouraging you to go there,” he joked.
Nandlall reaffirmed that the Government will
continue to make the necessary investments to improve access to justice throughout the country.
In this regard, he assured that more courts will be established in various areas in the coming years.
“We completed one at Charity, so the people of the Pomeroon River know about that. We are also
completing one at Anna Regina on the coast. We will open that, I believe, maybe next month. All of those are brand-new courts.
“To Orealla-Siparuta, we are promising here today that you will get a court, as you requested of me when I visited. The President has already in-
structed that we begin working on the establishment of a court there.”
He also recalled how, previously, persons had to travel long distances and endure significant hardship to access justice.
“You had to sleep there, you lost your belongings, you got robbed— all sorts of things, when I met with you in your communities. So, we will address that problem as well.”
Only in February of 2025, the Mabaruma Magistrate’s Court in Region One (BarimaWaini) a $277.9 million investment in Guyana’s justice system, was officially commissioned, representing a major step toward expanding access to justice in Region One. The state-ofthe-art facility, constructed by Builders Hardware and General Supplies, with architectural and engineering oversight from E and A Consultants Inc, was built to revolutionise legal proceedings in the region, eliminating the need for costly and time-consuming travel to other courts.
From household items to savings, parents free to utilise $55K cash grant as they see fit
– Manickchand
As the 'Because We Care' cash grant initiative continues its nationwide rollout, Education Minister, Priya Manickchand delivered a passionate address to parents in Linden, Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice) emphasising that the $55,000 per child grant is theirs to use however best benefits their child, and that love, like policy, must be shown through action.
A total of $11 billion has been allocated in the 2025 Budget for the distribution of the grant to 205,000 children in public and private
schools nationwide. This year, the 'Because We Care' cash grant has been increased to $50,000, coupled with the $5,000 uniform allowance, giving parents a total of $55,000 per child. While over $470 million has already been distributed to parents of school aged children in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), other regions will be targeted in the coming weeks.
Speaking at the launch of the distribution exercise in Linden, Manickchand cited examples of parents using previous grants to buy uniforms, breakfast
supplies, or start savings accounts for their children.
"And she said, you can't tell me about school supplies. At that time, we use to talk about school supplies, uniforms etc. She said I have enough school supplies and I'm going to buy two black tanks because if the black tank will give me water. It means they don't have to fetch up water".
"I saw another parent say, and we have them on video. This going in the early savings account, because I've been managing the work I get in the country. I'm managing my children
and this is going to their early savings. I am not here to tell you, and I will not let anyone else tell you, how to manage your money, when year to year you're handling the money by yourself," the Minister of Education.
In this regard, the Education Minister encouraged parents to utilise the money as they see fit and once their children can reap the benefits.
Meanwhile, Manickchand also spoke about the Government's school supplies grant initiative. The grant was implemented in September 2023
and is aimed at providing financial relief to teachers, helping to improve and manage classrooms more effectively and getting relevant supplies in a timely manner at a preferred quality.
Under the grant, teachers are given the opportunity to purchase the necessary office, field and janitorial supplies needed for their classrooms.
"They're not supposed to be sending you that list now, because we are giving each school the value of $4,500 per child, so that your teacher has to choose
what they want to buy, when they want to buy it, how much they want to buy, and what quality they want to buy…But that leaves you with more disposable income in your pocket".
"Love is an action word. Don't tell me you love me. You do things to show me you love me. That is how we operate in Government. When we say we love you, you must be light in the centre. Your pocket must feel a little heavy. You must have more money in your hands to do things that are nice to the children, for yourself," she added.
Toshaos at the just-concluded National Toshaos Conference (NTC)
Education Minister Priya Manickchand speaking with parents in Region 10
"Doggie" and "Fatta" charged after viral Cuffy Square brawl sparks chaos
Four persons, including two social media personalities have been charged in connection with a widely publicised brawl at the Square of the Revolution, commonly referred to as Cuffy Square, which was livestreamed and promoted online, drawing a crowd of hundreds.
Those charged are 35-year-old Bradley Sampson, known as ‘Doggie’, of Norton Street, Lodge Georgetown; 34-year-old Rahyana Goring, also called ‘Fatta’, of Vigilance, East Coast Demerara (ECD); 27-year-old Shanella Holder of East Ruimveldt, Front Road and overseas-based Guyanese 26-year-old Malika Lewis, popularly known online as ‘Farren Dolly’. They all appeared on Tuesday before Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.
Sampson was represented by Attorney Ronald Bostwick, and Goring was represented by Attorney Cassidé Nurse. Attorney Jevon Cox represented Lewis. Holder’s Defence
Attorney was Shauntelle Wright.
According to the charge, Sampson and Goring incited Holder and Lewis to commit a felony by encouraging them to engage in a physical altercation on May 25. The incident, which stemmed from an ongoing feud between Holder and Lewis, played out live on social media and escalated into a fullblown street fight.
The prosecution revealed that Holder and Lewis had been exchanging threats and taunts online in the days prior, including a video allegedly showing Lewis pelting Holder’s residence with a brick. The situation came to a head when both women agreed to settle the matter in a physical confrontation at “Cuffy Square”.
Sampson and Goring, known to be acquainted, were allegedly seen on separate Facebook livestreams hyping up the fight and encouraging their respective followers to show up. Doggie was reportedly heard offering a cash reward of $200,000 to the first woman who arrived on the scene. As
a result, hundreds of people turned up at the location to see the fight.
Video evidence allegedly showed the influencers actively engaging the crowd and encouraging the two women to fight, an altercation that lasted for about two minutes before police were forced to intervene. Officers discharged several rubber pellets to disperse the gathering. One person was reportedly injured during the chaos, having been shot in the buttocks.
Goring, Holder, and Lewis were allegedly arrested on the spot, while Sampson was taken into custody sometime later.
Mindful of conduct on social media
During Tuesday’s hearing, the prosecution objected to bail for Sampson and Goring on public safety grounds. However, Attorneys Bostwick and Nurse argued that their clients were not flight risks. Bostwick said Sampson is a businessman whose operations would be severely disrupted by remand, while Nurse noted that Goring is a single moth -
Miner jailed for killing colleague during rum shop dispute
A45-year-old miner from One Mile, Itaballi, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), has been sentenced to five years’ imprisonment for the killing of a fellow miner during a rum shop altercation last year.
Lloyd Daniels stood before Justice Navindra Singh at the Essequibo High Court and pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter, admitting to fatally stabbing 58-year-old Jimmy Ashby between January 2 and 3, 2024. The charge was reduced from murder, which he had originally faced following his indictment.
The fatal incident took place at Falls Top, Arimu Backdam, deep in the CuyuniMazaruni mining district, where both men had been working. According to State Prosecutor Caressa Henry, Daniels and Ashby had been drinking El Dorado 5-yearold rum at a shop known as “Foxy’s” on the afternoon of January 2. Sometime between 11:00 and 12:00h, an argument erupted. In the heat of the exchange, Daniels allegedly warned Ashby, “I am going to kill you.”
Hours later, around
Jailed: Lloyd Daniels
13:00h, the shop owner, David Henry, popularly known as “Foxy”, found Ashby sitting on a step outside his establishment. Blood was visible on Ashby’s jersey. When asked what had occurred, Ashby reportedly replied, “Lloyd juk me.” Daniels was seen walking away from the area shortly after the encounter. Ashby, though visibly wounded, asked for water and eventually left the location. Tragically, the following morning, his body was discovered at another shop nearby, called Tennessee. He was found unresponsive and mo-
tionless. A report was filed at the Bartica Police Station, and Ashby’s body was taken to the Bartica Regional Hospital, where he was officially pronounced dead.
An autopsy later confirmed that Ashby died from shock and haemorrhage due to a stab wound to the neck.
Daniels remained at large for several days before surrendering to police on January 8, 2024. Initially, he denied any involvement in Ashby’s death. However, during a caution statement, he admitted: “Officer, I did stab he but it wasn’t deep. It was a skin cut.”
In court, Daniels was represented by defence attorney Tonza Sarabo. Justice Singh, while handing down the sentence, emphasized that violence has no place in a civilized society and strongly cautioned against the reckless use of alcohol. He urged individuals to either drink in moderation or abstain completely, highlighting that irresponsible consumption often leads to avoidable tragedy.
The five-year sentence will be reduced as time served by Daniels during pre-trial custody will be deducted.
er of two and claimed video evidence exists showing her trying to prevent the fight.
Magistrate Azore granted bail in the sum of $250,000
each to Sampson and Goring and instructed them to be more mindful of their conduct on social media. Sampson was also ordered to lodge his passport with the court.
Meanwhile, Attorney Cox asked that his client be released on her own recognisance, adding that she has no prior antecedents and is not a flight risk.
Holder’s Defence Attorney Wright also then took the opportunity to state that her client is 27 years old, is not a flight risk, and has no previous convictions, and like Cox, requested that her client be released on her own recognisance.
Magistrate Azore placed the duo on $15,000 bail. The
court is expected to seek advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) on whether the matter can be dismissed. The case was adjourned to June 2.
‘Doggie’ and ‘Fatta’ were among a hostile crowd, reportedly paid by United States (US)-sanctioned businessman Azruddin Mohamed, to block Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) along with police ranks from seizing several luxury vehicles — including a Lamborghini Roadster, Ferrari, Rolls Royce, and Land Cruisers — from the Mohamed’s residence in Houston, Greater Georgetown. The vehicles are part of a tax evasion court case against Azruddin Mohamed in the High Court.
16% of women tested this year positive for HPV – health official …says over 1300
As the Health Ministry continues to fight against cervical cancer by promoting early screening, it has been revealed that 16 per cent of those tested for the year so far are positive for HPV, a sexually-transmitted infection that is the primary cause of cervical cancer.
On Wednesday the health ministry through its Maternal and Child Health Department hosted a HVP scientific conference.
The engagement, which was held at the Ramada Princess Hotel, Georgetown brought together leaders from the local and international health community. Speaking at the event was Coordinator of the Cancer Services and Chronic Disease Unit Dr Shanique Greaves who delved into statistics relating to HPV screening this year.
According to Dr Greaves from March 2025 to date over 1300 persons were screened for HPV through the ministry’s voucher programme with approximately 16 percent of tests displaying positive results.
“To date, I can give you the figure. We have about 1,307 persons that have taken advantage of getting tested. And about 208 results have now been positive. Of those 208 results that we found to be positive, I mean this is now starting from March to present day, but it would have been shown that strains 33, 39, 52, 58 were a little bit more prevalent from the positive strains that we gathered this year.”
Last year, some 12,000 women between the ages 21 to 65 years received screening for cervical cancer. Of the women screened, 17 per cent tested positive. The government is promoting early detection to fight against cervical cancer.
To achieve this, the government has begun rolling out monetary vouchers to alleviate the financial burdens associated with screenings.
This nationwide screening effort is part of Guyana’s
tests conducted since March
eliminated cervical cancer.”
broader strategy to meet WHO’s 2030 cervical cancer elimination targets, which include ensuring that 90 per cent of young girls are vaccinated against HPV by age 15, 70 per cent of women are screened with a high-performance test by age 35 and again by 45, and 90 per cent of women with precancerous or cancerous lesions are receiving appropriate treatment.
Meanwhile, speaking on behalf of Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony at the event, Director of Primary Health Care, Dr Ertenisa Hamilton, reminded healthcare providers about the important role they play in ensuring all Guyanese citizens remain healthy.
“But the people who make the biggest impact are the healthcare workers who go daily, face the challenges, and still get the job done. And so when we look at sitting in this room this afternoon to speak about HPV, yes, we're looking at the 9-valent and not the quadrivalent anymore. We still have to ensure that the vision remains the same. If we're able to ensure that all of the girls, and now we've started looking at the boys, at least if the coverage is 90% and above, it means that we're progressing along that curve of ensuring that within the next couple of years, we can say that we've
On this point, Dr Hamilton made a call to action to the attendees of the conference.
“That therefore means that every healthcare worker sitting in this room has a task to play in ensuring that every woman that is eligible is screened, every girl and every boy that is eligible is vaccinated, and if a woman is tested positive, that she receives the treatment that is required so that she can survive this. Cervical cancer is only deadly when you do not act and so I'm calling everyone in this room to action.”
She added, “We will not have yet another conference where we sit by and take in the information, but I'm calling you to action. Ensure that when you leave this room with the information that will be provided, it will be information to fuel the fire, increase the passion, so that every girl and every woman has the opportunity to live their lives to the fullest.”
Almost all cases of cervical cancer are caused by persistent infection with certain high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). While many HPV infections are cleared by the body's immune system, a persistent infection can lead to the development of abnormal cervical cells, which can eventually progress to cancer.
Coordinator of the Cancer Services and Chronic Disease Unit, Dr Shanique Greaves
Director of Primary Health Care, Dr Ertenisa Hamilton
Bradley Sampson, known as "Doggie", Rahyana Goring, also called "Fatta", Shanella Holder, and Malika Lewis, popularly known online as ‘Farren Dolly’
Teen killed in Essequibo Coast accident
Police are probing a fatal road accident that claimed the life of a 17-year-old student on Tuesday afternoon, along the Dartmouth public road on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam).
Dead is Yujraj Ram, a student of Anna Regina Multilateral Secondary School and resident of Lot 28 New Road, Essequibo Coast.
Reports indicate that the accident occurred at approximately 14:20h and involved a minibus, BAC 597. The vehicle is owned by its 34-year-old driver from the Charity Squatting Area.
According to initial investigations, the minibus was travelling north along the Dartmouth public road when the teenager, who
had just disembarked from another minibus heading in the opposite direction, attempted to cross the roadway. Police said Ram first paused upon seeing the oncoming vehicle before trying to run across, during which he was struck.
The impact caused the
teen to fall onto the roadway, sustaining multiple injuries. He was rendered unconscious and was immediately picked up by the minibus driver, who transported him to the Oscar Joseph Charity Public Hospital.
Ram was examined by medical personnel and
was found to have suffered head trauma and was bleeding from his nose and mouth. Despite efforts to save him, he succumbed to his injuries at about 15:20h while receiving treatment. The body has since been taken to the hospital’s mortuary, where a post-mortem examination is expected to be conducted.
The driver of the minibus is currently in police custody at the Charity Police Station as investigations continue.
US calls on its citizens to leave Venezuela amid escalating risks, surging detentions
The United States (US) State Department has issued a travel warning urging all American citizens in Venezuela to leave the country immediately, citing an alarming rise in wrongful detentions, civil unrest, and other severe threats to personal safety.
On Tuesday, the State Department declared Venezuela a Level 4- “Do Not Travel” destination, amid escalating risks such as terrorism, kidnapping, torture in detention, violent crime, and a near-total breakdown in legal protections. The US warned that American citizens, in-
cluding dual nationals and those traveling on foreign passports are being detained arbitrarily and held without due process, sometimes for years and under brutal conditions.
“There is no US embassy or consulate presence in Venezuela, and we cannot provide emergency assistance,” the advisory warns, emphasising that even visits to family members put Americans and their relatives at risk of detention by Nicolás Maduro’s regime.
The advisory notes Venezuela now holds more wrongfully detained US nationals than any other country in the world.
The US Government is calling on all citizens, including permanent residents, to depart Venezuela without delay and avoid all travel to the country under any circumstances.
“Dual citizenship, a Venezuelan visa, past travel to Venezuela, or a job in Venezuela does not protect US national travelers. Every American is at risk of being detained by Maduro’s regime. The US Department of State recommends that any US citizens in Venezuela leave immediately. Anyone with US citizenship or any other US residency status in Venezuela should leave
the country immediately, including those traveling on Venezuelan or other foreign passports. Do not travel to Venezuela for any reason,” the statement from the US State Department said.
US Oil producer Chevron's (CVX.N) licence to operate in Venezuela expired on May 27 as planned, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a post on his personal X account.
According to Reuters, prior to the US company's licence to do business in the South American country being expired, most partners of Venezuela's sanctioned state-run oil
firm PDVSA requested extensions.
However, US President Donald Trump said in February he would revoke the licence issued by his predecessor Joe Biden more than two years ago.
Trump accused President Nicolás Maduro of not making progress on electoral reforms and migrant returns.
In fact, any extension would need to be approved by the US Treasury and State Departments. The State Department provides guidance for the Treasury to rule on any changes to sanction regimes.
Venezuela has some
of the world's largest reserves of oil, but its crude output remains at a fraction of what it was a decade ago after a lack of investment, alleged mismanagement at PDVSA and US sanctions on Venezuela's energy industry since 2019. The licences to Chevron and other foreign firms in Venezuela have allowed a slight recovery in oil output and exports since 2023. Maduro and his allies have cheered what they say is the country's resilience and have blamed some economic hardships and shortages on sanctions.
Dead: 17-year-old Yujraj Ram
US President, Donald Trump
Secretary of State, Marco Rubio
Venezuela’s President, Nicolás Maduro
NA Council to use $50M subvention to upgrade street lighting, Town Hall
The New Amsterdam
Town Council will be using its $50 million central Government subvention to execute much needed upgrades to street lighting facilities, the Town Hall building and the municipality’s Esplanade Park.
Last month, Vice President (VP) Dr Bharrat Jagdeo had announced sweeping increases in the central Government’s subventions for local Government organs. He announced that every Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) will now receive $30 million as their new annual subvention, while each municipality will receive $50 million. Previously, NDCs received subventions of about $5 million, while municipalities received about $18 million.
received its full subvention and currently arrangements are being made to have key development projects rolled out.
Among those projects will be repairs to the walls of the Town Hall, along with upgrades to the Esplanade Park and street lighting.
New Amsterdam’s Mayor Wainwright McIntosh said that the municipality has
As it relates to the Town Hall Walls, the Council has been for years commenting that a section of the building might soon collapse if needed repairs were not
carried out.
The Mayor said the Council is still open for suggestions from citizens on projects they might want to be undertaken this year.
“Works will commence shortly with regards to the maintenance of the sidewalls of the municipality. Tenders were submitted and the tenders were open and the contract to resuscitate these sidewalls, that particular contract would have been issued having
Suriname Electoral Office admits problems, refutes fraud claims
Surina -
me's Independent Electoral Office (OKB) has acknowledged shortcomings in at least one polling station, but dismissed suggestions of manipulation or fraud, as voters in the Dutch-speaking Caribbean Community (Caricom) country still await the final results of the elections held on Sunday.
In a statement, the OKB said that it was important to provide further explanation regarding the situation at polling station 614 in the Brokopondo district, after one of the candidates, Ronald Pansa, said his concerns were not being taken seriously.
“The concerns expressed by candidate Ronald Pansa have been received and are not taken lightly. The OKB acknowledges that the conditions at polling station 614 were suboptimal and that this has led to understandable frustrations. At the same time, we emphasise that there are no indications that there has been
deliberate manipulation or fraud.,” the OKB said in a statement.
Pansa had complained in the media about the state of affairs at the polling station about a significant delay in the voting and counting process during the early hours of Monday.
But the OKB said, “the cause of this is primarily a lack of experience and expertise among the polling station staff, which led to logistical and procedural challenges”.
It said that in order to ensure the continuity of the process, the OKB supervisor intervened at various times.
“The count was checked and corrected several times, with the aim of arriving at a reliable and verifiable result. It is admitted that due to the combination of time pressure, fatigue and public pressure, it was decided at a certain point to publish the provisional results on a board pending the formal completion of the report.
“At around eight o’clock in the morning on Monday, the report could finally be finalised and made public, in accordance with the applicable procedures,” the OKB said, calling on all stakeholders to contribute constructively to the election process, “in the interest of our democracy”.
“The OKB will thoroughly evaluate this incident and, where necessary, make recommendations to implement future improvements in the organisation and training of polling station staff. Transparency, integrity and reliability remain core values for the
OKB in the performance of its constitutional task,” it added.
Meanwhile, with the final results still pending, both the ruling Progressive Reform Party (VHP) of President Chandrikapersad “Chan” Santokhi and the main opposition National Democratic Party (NDP) that was once led by late former President Dési Bouterse, are both looking at the possibilities of forming a coalition government.
Successful conclusion
NDP Vice Chairman Ashwin Adhin says the party supports Chairwoman Jennifer Geerlings-Simons as presidential candidate.
“I had indicated that the majority of votes determines the candidate. She has the most votes, so a man is a man, a word is a word,” Adhin said, who had also indicated that he wanted to have been elected as President.
Adhin said that the focus was now on forming a coa-
lition, and that GeerlingsSimons was leading that.
The Vice Chairman indicates that he was confident that this phase, in which the party finds itself after the preliminary election results would also be brought to a successful conclusion.
Meanwhile, the NDP is calling for an investigation into the way in which the ballot box material had been delivered from the various polling stations in the Wanica district to the main polling station.
It said an investigation must be conducted into how it was possible that the delivery of the material from 148 polling stations was not completed until 09:30h the next day.
Late Monday, a group of concerned NDP members went to the main polling station calling on the Chairman of the main polling station, Bholanath Narain, for an explanation.
The preliminary figures show that the outgoing coalition government and the NDP have so far won 18 seats each in the 51-member National Assembly.
Among the successful candidates so far is Ingrid Bouterse-Waldring, the widow of the former President, who was elected with preferential votes in this election. On her Facebook page, she thanked the population for their confidence in her and the NDP.
Just under 400,000 registered voters were eligible to cast their ballots across the country and once the new parliament is seated, lawmakers will choose Suriname’s next President and Vice President in the coming weeks. (CMC)
A
followed the process that should have been followed. So very soon we will see works commencing with regards to our sidewall there. And please feel free to make contact with the Mayor’s office should there be any pressing issues. It is our commitment to ensure every citizen across this beautiful town of New Amsterdam receive the services they are so much in need of.”
According to Mayor McIntosh, efforts are being made to ensure that proper procurement procedures are followed, with bids being prepared for various works. Among the highlighted initiatives, the Mayor noted is a street lighting project aimed at enhancing safety and visibility across the town.
“And one of those projects that we will be embarking on is to ensure every constituency has street lights,” the Mayor said.
In addition to streetlights, ongoing drainage work is part of the work
programme for this year. Similarly, upgrades are also planned for Esplanade Park.
“The project in the Esplanade Park, we will complete that project very shortly. We are awaiting the said contractor who would have started the work there within the Esplanade Park. That project is to build a canteen facility within the Esplanade Park. We have some other programmes we will be rolling out as a municipality to ensure every constituency benefits from this year's subvention. With regards to the market, as we speak, the Treasurer's Department is in the process of rolling out those bids where there will be need for tenders. Those are people doing maintenance work that is happening within the market. Over the weekend period, we would have serviced one of our main gutters in the market and that is to minimise the leakage that vendors are experiencing,” Mayor McIntosh pointed out.
Trump Administration halts scheduling of new student visa appointments
President Donald Trump's Administration has ordered its missions abroad to stop scheduling new appointments for student and exchange visitor visa applicants as the State Department prepares to expand social media vetting of foreign students, according to an internal cable seen by Reuters on Tuesday.
US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio said in the cable that the department plans to issue updated guidance on social media vetting of student and exchange visitor applicants after a review is completed and advised consular sections to halt the scheduling of such visa appointments.
The move comes as the Trump Administration has sought to ramp up deportations and revoke student visas as part of its wide-ranging efforts to fulfill his hardline immigration agenda.
Several hundred protesters, including Harvard University students and professors, demonstrated in support of foreign students at the Harvard campus on Tuesday, while also protesting the Trump Administration’s efforts to cut off funding to the university. In the cable, first reported by Politico, Rubio said appointments that have already been scheduled can proceed under the current guidelines, but available appointments not already taken should be pulled down.
A senior State Department official confirmed the accuracy of the cable.
State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce declined to comment on reports of the cable, but said the US would use "every tool" to vet anyone who wants to enter the United States. (Excerpt from Reuters)
section of the Town Hall building
Chandrikapersad Santokhi
Jennifer Geerlings-Simons chairs the Parliament (DW photo)
Pay attention to money matters. Make room for something you want to pursue or purchase, but consider the implications and costs involved. Be realistic and honest with yourself and the people you encounter.
Think before you act. If you respond to something too quickly, you'll make a mistake. Assess your feelings, stress and overall health, and consider the changes you can make that will benefit your life.
A vibrant approach will help you seal any deal you want to make. Speak up, bring about change and start implementing plans that contribute to your mental, emotional and physical well-being.
When your mind wanders and temptation mounts, return to reality. Too much of anything will cost you emotionally, financially or physically. For now, research the possibilities, but wait to take action.
Verify facts, get what you want in writing and refrain from taking on more than you can handle. Selfimprovement, physical fitness and distancing yourself from bad influences will be in your best interest.
Keep your thoughts to yourself, your money in your wallet and your reputation safe from anyone trying to undermine or take advantage of you. Play by the rules, stick to your needs and focus on what benefits you.
Keep your emotions under wraps and proceed with intelligence, a solid plan and the courage to say no. Proper preparation and clear goals will help you navigate past anyone trying to outmaneuver you.
Stay on top of matters involving work, money and reputation. Anger won't go over well with superiors. Use your knowledge, experience and connections to ensure you have the support you need.
Contracts, property investments and financial issues will involve challenges. Leave nothing to chance, get a second opinion and prepare to walk away if you don't like what you see or hear.
Be a good listener and give yourself time to ponder what's being said or done before joining forces with anyone. When uncertainty surfaces, consider moving forward alone or looking elsewhere for a better deal.
Direct your energy at your target and fire away. Self-preservation and determination go together and will ensure that you come out a winner. Focus on doing your best and protecting what you have.
Give yourself a chance to breathe and rejuvenate. Assess your situation, consider your options and expand your plans to include what will benefit you most emotionally and financially. Temptation is apparent.
ARCHIE
Royal Challengers
Bengaluru (RCB)
stormed into Qualifier 1 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 as stand-in Captain Jitesh Sharma's 85 not out off 33 balls helped them pull off the third-highest successful chase in the tournament's history.
Rishabh Pant's unbeaten 118 off 61 balls had powered Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to 227 for 3, but RCB chased it down with eight balls and six wickets to spare. They will now face table-toppers Punjab Kings in Mullanpur on Thursday.
Kohli, Salt set the platform
50 for no loss. Akash Singh broke through with Salt's wicket, but Kohli carried on. He chipped Shahbaz Ahmed over his head for a four before hitting Akash on the up through covers to raise his fifty off 27 balls.
O'Rourke strikes back Having conceded 22 in his first over, Will O'Rourke returned to bowl the eighth over of the innings. Rajat Patidar, who was playing as Impact Player once again, picked him up over deep square leg for a six. Two balls later, Kohli hit him over extra cover for four. But O'Rourke had the last laugh as Patidar slashed his
ing 105 from 8.4 overs, ESPNcricinfo's forecaster gave them a 21.07% chance of winning.
Jitesh goes berserk
Jitesh started with a boundary off the first ball, but Akash conceded only seven in the 13th over to increase RCB's troubles –they needed 89 from seven. Mayank Agarwal had got off to a brisk start and was on 27 off 15 at that point. But Jitesh decided to take matters into his own hands, and hit O'Rourke for a six and a four in a 17-run over.
When Shahbaz came on for the 15th over, Jitesh took him apart. He hit him for two fours and a six before Agarwal ended the over with a boundary of his own. That over went for 21 and tilted the balance in RCB's favour. Now they needed only 51 from five overs.
Jitesh hit two more fours off Avesh in the next before having a slice of luck. With 39 required from four overs, he tried a reverse sweep off
Jitesh’s 85* trumps Pant’s
the return crease. Jitesh heaved the resulting free hit over deep midwicket to bring up his fifty off 22 balls. Surprisingly, it was his first-ever IPL fifty. The drama did not end there. As Rathi ran in for the last ball of the over, he abort-
Pant idiosyncrasy, including a one-handed six, a sideways tumble after failing to reach a wide delivery, and a front flip to celebrate his hundred.
He attacked straightaway. In the fourth over, he hit Yash Dayal for a six
ed and broke the stumps at the non-striker's end. Jitesh was out of his crease at that point. However, the TV umpire ruled it not out, saying Rathi had completed his "delivery stride" before ef
and two fours to move to 19 off just eight. That this was already his third-highest score of the season told all you needed to know about his form.
In the seventh over, with no swing on offer, Bhuvneshwar tried a short ball. Pant duly pulled him over deep midwicket for a six. On the next delivery, Livingstone's misfield at deep square leg gifted him another boundary. Shortly
after that, Pant brought up his fifty, off 29 balls. Mitchell Marsh, who was on 33 off 23 after 10 overs, also joined in. Off his next eight balls, he smashed 20. He and Pant added 152 off 78 balls, a stand Bhuvneshwar broke by having Marsh caught behind in the 16th over.
Pant was unstoppable, though. He brought up his hundred with a Pant shot and followed it up with a Pant celebration. It was a full and wide delivery from Bhuvneshwar. Pant reached out and scythed it over extra cover for four. By the time he completed the shot, his front leg was in the air, beyond parallel to the ground, the toe pointing towards deep midwicket. After regaining the balance, he looked up, removed his helmet and gloves, and did a front flip. The LSG dugout stood up to applaud, as did the home crowd.
Jitesh erred in the over distribution. Krunal Pandya, who bowled the second over of the innings, sent down just one more and finished with 2-0-14-0, while Romario Shepherd leaked 51 from his four. By the end of the day, however, he had more than made up for it (ESPNcricinfo).
Royal Challengers Bengaluru stormed into Qualifier 1
Jitesh Sharma and Mayank Agarwal stitched together a matchwinning 107 in just 45 balls
Jitesh Sharma is ecstatic after finishing the chase for RCB
Rishabh Pant performs a front flip to celebrate his hundred
One Guyana King and Queen of the Sand Football… PM Phillips opens 3rd edition following colourful march-past
…5 wins and a draw recorded
Prime Minister, Brigadier (Retired)
Mark Phillips on Independence night officially opened the third edition of the One Guyana King and Queen of the Sand Football competition in the bauxite mining town of Linden.
Following a colourful march-past of 24 of the 28 contesting teams, eight of which are female, Prime Minister Phillips, in his feature remarks, reminded the
interaction through the powerful medium of sport.
The tournament, which has seen widespread participation of teams outside of the bauxite mining town, is being contested at the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Linden office ground and admission is free.
Over $6 million in cash and other incentives is at stake with the winner of the Queen segment of the tournament set to collect $800,000,
players of Government’s commitment and steadfast assurance to the development of the nation’s athletes as well as promoting communal
with second, third, and fourth to be rewarded with $300,000, $200,000 and $100,000, respectively.
The top prize for the
King segment is a whopping $1,500,000, with second getting $500,000, third $200,000 and fourth $100,000. There will also be incentives for the best goalkeeper, highest goal scorer and the Most Valuable Player (MVP).
Two matches in the Queen competition heralded the start of this year’s edition with Iconic Strikers setting the tone as they hammered Rockstone, 7-0. Doubles each came off the feet of Janelle Edmonson (5th, 8th), Horicia Adams (5th, 18th), and Shontel Greene (7th, 15th). The other goal was recorded by Shanic Thornhill in the 14th minute.
The next Queen matchup ended in an exciting draw between Avocado Ballers and Hururu. It was Avocado Ballers who broke the deadlock six minutes into the game when Mananjel Mendoza breached the opponents’ defence and goalkeeper guard.
That advantage did not last for long as Uickesha Persaud responded in like manner for Hururu one minute later. The second of three eight-minute segments in the Queen contest saw Avocado Ballers once again retaking
Rodrigues voted President of BWCC
The Barima Waini Cricket Committee (BWCC) recently elected a new Executive which is now headed by President Sherlon Rodrigues.
The election of office bearers was carried out by Amit Rajnarine of the Georgetown Umpires Association.
After several nominations, Rodrigues edged out Rich Skinner in a close vote, 9-8, for the position of President. Skinner was later unanimously declared as Vice President. With 13 votes, Earl Domingo was voted Secretary of the BWCC. Further, Letesha Rose Benn garnered the majority (11) of the votes in the race for Treasurer and as such, assumed the position. In addition, Earl Richards, with 15 votes, was declared Assistant Secretary/Treasurer of BWCC.
In brief remarks, the President thanked members for entrusting him with a second term and promised to continue working for the development of cricket in the region.
In addition to the Executive Committee, a vote was also carried out for Committee Members
from each sub-region in the district.
Those Committee Members are:
Moruca Sub-Region Yonette Welcome
Mabaruma Sub-Region Melissa Inniss
Matarkai Sub-Region Micquel Perez
Earlier in the meeting, a report was presented on the previous Committee s work. It was highlighted that the BWCC has established a close relationship with the Essequibo Cricket Board (ECB). Rodrigues, in presenting the report, stressed that this relationship has been very fruitful for both senior and junior cricketers of Region One (Barima-Waini). He
the lead, this time it was a Norkelyn Hernandez goal in the 10th minute that did the trick.
But, like before, Hururu fired back to even the score in the 15th minute through Shalam Frederick. Neither team were able to score again and each walked away with a point.
Each of the four matches
in the King competition ended in victory. Team Mineral was too strong for Swan FC, winning 4-1. Kelroy Anthong (6th), Tino Thomas (18th), Jermaine King (23rd) and Travon Croal (27th) inked their names on the scoresheet for the winners. Swan’s consolation goal was scored by Mark Loncke in the eighth minute.
Rockstone’s Daniel Adolph was the hero of their 3-1 triumph over Hardball Management. Adolph scored all the goals with the lone strike for Hardball Management coming from Marcus Forde.
HH Ballers blanked Avocado Ballers 3-0 on account of goals from Malakai Todd (2nd), and a brace from Shamar Caesar (24th, 26th). The final clash of the night saw Bomberz edging YMCA 2-1.
Both goals for Bomberz were scored by D Samuels in the sixth and 11th minute. The lone reply for YMCA came from K Gettino. Action will continue on Friday night at the same venue with two Queen and five King matches.
The top two teams from each of the groups in both competitions will advance following round-robin play.
Guyana Lottery Co batting for Kares T10 Tapeball Blast
Scheduled to bowl off on Saturday, June 28, the Kares One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast is aiming to get bigger and better in its third season.
thanked the ECB for working with the BWCC to provide opportunities to their players. For junior cricketers he mentioned: Darwin Joseph, Usain Fredericks and Makahaya Holmes among others who have represented our country, and for seniors: Yonette Welcome and Anastacia Valenzuela.
In turn, Rajnarine praised the region for providing opportunities for the cricketers of the region. He also urged the new executive to start working on the BWCC constitution which will help to guide election processes and the overall management of the Committee.
In order to do so, the event’s organisers have welcomed another major sponsor, the Guyana Lottery Company.
During a simple ceremony at the company’s Lamaha Street, Georgetown headquarters on Tuesday morning, General Manager Kalima Ali divulged why the entity was so eager to support the Tapeball tournament.
Ali shared, “The Guyana Lottery Company Limited is proud to be a diamond sponsor for the One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast cricket competition.”
“And so, we believe in the unity and passion that cricket brings across Guyana and we’re particularly happy to be associated with this competition, because it’s being played across Guyana and the lottery is spread across all the regions, all the counties of Guyana. We think that this is a very good way of connecting with our players; we do believe in supporting and nurturing talent at a community level and we see, based on the previous years of this competition, we see the pride that it brings to communities and the engagement that it encourages, so we want to be associated with that.”
While the tournament kicks off with the Berbice zone on June 28 and June
29, the East Bank and West Demerara zone will take centre stage on July 5-July 6, Georgetown and East Coast Demerara July 19July 20 and Essequibo from July 26-July 27; the tournament’s grand finale is billed for August 3.
One of the tournament’s Directors, John Ramsingh revealed the nature of the Lottery Company’s sponsorship.
“It’s good to be aligning ourselves with this big name like you mentioned, the Guyana Lottery Company. What the Lottery Company is doing this year is different to our tournament of the past three seasons, is that they’ll be branding the commentators and broadcast team who will be known perhaps as the Guyana Lottery Company broadcast team. That’s something that’s stepping the game up as well, the Lottery Company,” Ramsingh disclosed.
Noting that spots in the tournament are going fast, Ramsingh went on to urge interested teams to sign up.
The One Guyana T10
Blast Director expressed, “From the inception, before registration officially started, we had lots of interest being shown and when registration officially started, most of those slots went already. Most of the zones, they have two, maybe three the most, slots still available. So, it’s not totally closed, it’s just that there’s a big demand for those slots and it means that the interest is high and we’d like to encourage teams who are interested in the tournament to go a step further by formally registering for this tournament, because not a lot of space available.”
The tournament’s organisers are anticipating reaching some 80 competing teams. The registration fee is $30,000. The winning team in each zone will pocket $300,000 and a spot in the national finals while the tournament’s overall winners will cart off $1.7 million. The runners-up will have to settle for $700,000 while the losing semi-finalists will receive $300,000 each.
Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips meeting players along with Assistant Director of Sport Franklin Wilson and other officials
Players from Hururu (left) and Avacado Ballers battle for the ball on Monday night
Newly elected BWCC President Sherlon Rodrigues
BWCC Vice President Rich Skinner
From left: Romario Samaroo (One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast); Kamila Ali (Guyana Lottery Company Limited General Manager), and Donielle Barnes (Guyana Lottery Company Limited Marketing Manager) during a ceremonial presentation on Tuesday
Director of Sport endorses President Irfaan Ali for 2nd term
…cites historic investment in sports and national development
In light of the recent announcement of the date for Guyana’s 2025 General and Regional Elections, Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle has come out in support of the current administration, citing their massive investment in sport as the determining factor.
Ninvalle shared in a statement on Tuesday, “As Director of Sport, I wish to publicly endorse His Excellency, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali for a second term as President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.
“Over the past five years, President Ali has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to national development through a holistic approach that integrates infrastructure, economic growth, and human capital investment, particularly in sports.
“From 2020 to 2025, under the stewardship of President Ali, the Government of Guyana has allocated an unprecedented $21.61 billion to sport development.
“This level of investment is historic and speaks volumes about the President’s understanding of the critical role sport plays in youth empowerment, community development, national unity, and Guyana’s global representation.
“To contextualise this investment: In 2020, the allocation to the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport stood at $805.3 million By 2021, it had nearly doubled to $1.5 billion In 2022, the figure rose to $2.4 billion Followed by $4.3 billion in 2023
• $4.6 billion in 2024
• And in 2025, a remarkable $8 billion was allocated
“These resources have not remained confined to budget lines, they have translated into realistic and impactful changes.
“We have seen the con-
Dover, Farrell, Springer impress at GOBSA meet
Track stars from the youth to adult level showcased their talents on Saturday last during the ninth staging of the Guyana Overseas Based Sports Association (GOBSA) Independence Track and Field Classic.
At the National Track and Field Centre on the West Coast of Demerara (WCD), several clubs stood out as their athletes raked in the gold medals.
One such star was Running Brave’s Akeelah Dover who bagged a sprint triple. In the Girls’ U17
feat, the sprint double, in the Boys’ U17 events was Upper Demerara’s Deuquan Farrell. Farrell stopped the clock at 10.83s in the 100m and 22.16s in the 200m for two gold medals. In the 18 and over 100m race, Police Progressive Youth Club’s Cassie Small took the blue ribbon with 11.79s while Guyana Defence Force duo Savannah Adams and Tonya Rawlins clocked 11.95s and 12.13s respectively, to complete the podium.
Teen sensation Tianna Springer went on to cop the double gold in the senior
100m, Dover clocked 12.01s for first place, 24.91s in the 200m event and 57.98s in the 400m event, to become the only competitor in that race to clock under a minute.
Pulling off a similar
200m and 400m races. In the 200m, Springer of the Police club, stopped the clock at 24.18s to outclass Adams and Rawlins with 25.37s and 25.78s respectively. Springer crossed the line
in 55.23s in the 400m race, followed by GDF’s Kenisha Phillips in 55.90s and Andrea Foster in 57.07s.
GDF’s Akeem Stewart finished on top of the podium in the Men’s 100m, clocking 10.38s. Keiron Desouza followed in 10.40s and Tytans’ Athletics Club’s Jaheel Cornette completed the podium in 10.80s.
However, Desouza had his revenge in the 200m, pipping his clubmate on the line in 21.601s for first place. Stewart clocked 21.610 for second while Police’s Revon Williams was third in 21.72s.
The Men’s 400m saw Running Brave’s Simeon Adams taking top honours in 47.98s followed by Revon Williams in 49.20s and Afi Blair of Running Brave completing the top trio in 49.58s.
In the field events, GDF’s Leslain Baird assumed his usual place at the top of the javelin charts with a best throw of 61.68m for first place. Police’s Eron Leitch was second in 57.89m and GDF’s Tramaine Beckles was third with 56.85m.
Police’s Annalisa Redmond came out on top of the women’s long jump event, with a best leap of 5.68m.
GDF’s Toyan Raymond was second with 5.63m and Krystal Morris third with 5.46m.
A pair of relays closed off the day’s activities in which Police took the gold both times. In the 4x100m race, the Police quartet completed their run in 43.38s for first while GDF had to settle for silver in 43.42s.
Then Police stopped the clock at 4:39.38s in the 2x800m relay for the gold. Team Nice copped second in 4:40.15s and Hopetown Flames were third in 4:49.19s.
ship has proven that sport is not a luxury, it is a necessity and an essential tool for social transformation. His approach has gone beyond medals and trophies; it has been about investing in the people of Guyana. His Excellency is not just developing facilities, he is developing communities and lives.
struction of new stadiums, modern athletic tracks, multi-sport recreational facilities, and the rehabilitation of hundreds of community grounds across both coastal and hinterland regions. Infrastructure once thought impossible in Guyana is now a reality.
“President Ali’s leader-
“Young people across Guyana, are now afforded unprecedented access to opportunities in sport. For the first time, we are seeing sustainable career pathways emerging, not only for athletes, but for coaches, sport administrators, and entrepreneurs connected to the sporting ecosystem.
“President Ali has positioned Guyana not only to participate but to compete on the regional and international stages.
“Several transforma-
tive initiatives are currently underway through the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the National Sports Commission, including the construction of new national and regional facilities and comprehensive athlete development programmes. Therefore, I am confident that President Ali will be allowed to complete the work he has so boldly and effectively begun.
“This is not about politics. This is about progress. It is about giving continuity to a vision that is changing lives and reshaping the future of sport and national development in Guyana.
“It is a privilege to endorse His Excellency President Irfaan Ali for a second term. His transformative leadership has been for the people.”
Guyana is set to go to the polls on September 1, 2025.
GCF to host Caricom Classic Chess tournament
… U-16 Caricom Junior Tournament to run concurrently
The Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) will once again host the prestigious Caricom Classic Team Chess Tournament from June 30 to July 7, 2025, at its official venue, the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre.
An open competition for junior players under 16 years of age will run alongside the main event, creating an invaluable opportunity for more young chess enthusiasts to gain international competitive experience.
The Caricom Classic, a collaboration between the Chess Federation and the Caricom Secretariat, invites chess players from Caricom nations, along with top local chess players, to compete in a nine-round Classical Swiss format, each team vying for a chance to place in the top three positions.
The U-16 chess competition promises to have a host of young Guyanese players who will get a chance to shine and compete among other players their age.
The GCF in its aim to promote chess in Guyana and the Caribbean region, hosted the first instalment of the Caricom Classic Chess tournament in 2024 to coincide with Caricom's 50th anniversary, attracting participants from Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Jamaica, Dominica, St Lucia, the Bahamas, and the Cayman Islands. The Trinidad and Tobago team took home the first-place trophy, while Guyana came second and Barbados placed third. This successful tournament paved the way for our Caricom brothers and sisters to compete among themselves and provided an opportunity to foster and solidify stronger friend-
ships among the Caribbean nations.
The Federation’s goal is to establish the Caricom Classic as a biennial event, strategically held in the years between Chess Olympiads. This year, the GCF has chosen to host the competition (the next Caricom tournament is earmarked for 2027) as the next Chess Olympiad is scheduled for 2026.
The participating teams will enjoy a week-long stay at the prestigious Pegasus Hotel, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The tournament itself will take place in the Exhibition Centre of the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre, a venue renowned for its modern amenities and exquisite design, ensuring a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere for all competitors.
Pegasus Hotel Managing Director Brandon Badal commented that the Caricom Chess tournament was a remarkable initiative that not only celebrates the spirit of competition but also strengthens regional unity through the game of chess. He stated that the
Pegasus Hotel is proud to sponsor the Guyana Chess Federation in hosting this important event at Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre, and commended the Federation’s efforts to promote chess as a tool for education, strategic thinking, and youth development across the Caribbean.
The GCF has expressed profound thanks to the Pegasus Hotel Guyana for generously providing its exceptional venue for both tournaments.
The GCF also extended its sincere gratitude to the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry, and the National Sport Commission for their unwavering support and invaluable sponsorship of the Caricom Classic tournament.
“Thank you to APAN Energy, who has substantially supported the Caricom tournament, CB Group of Companies and NTS Amega Global. The GCF is heartened by the sponsorship received from these companies and the support they have expressed for the development of chess in Guyana,” the Federation noted in a statement on Tuesday.
Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle
More from the GOBSA Independence Track and Field Classic on Saturday last
Tianna Springer cruised past the finish line twice in first place
GCF Executives with Pegasus Hotel Guyana Managing Director Brandon Badal
IGuyana GSL ticket sales commence
n regular fashion, the Camp Street Box office was a hive of activity on Tuesday morning when ticket sales began for the 2025 ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL).
Similarly, the Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) merchandise office reopened its doors.
With just over a month to go for the tournament’s anticipated second edition, the ExxonMobil Guyana GSL T20 saw ticket sales commencing on Tuesday, both online
There, Event Operations Coordinator for the GSL T20, Romario Samaroo, spoke on the progress of the ticket sales and the massive value of the affordable commodity. Samaroo told Guyana Times Sport, “We had about 1000 persons who would’ve already come in physically and purchased tickets and we had somewhere about another 1000 online purchases as well. I can’t confirm that number, but, by the end of the day, I will. So, ticket sales have been going good, we see the interest building, last year we had a phenomenal inaugural season and this year we’re back again.”
“It’s early, we’re still in May and tickets are just going to go rapidly. I want persons to know that tickets are as cheap as $500 GYD and tickets are available for all matches, including the final. When you purchase a ticket, it’s not just a ticket to come and see cricket, it’s a ticket that you could come and witness a concert. They’re going to have a half-time concert for every Guyana Amazon Warriors game as well as the opening and the final. So, when you come, it’s an entire package that you’re getting for just as little as $500,” he further explained. Also opened at the Camp Street box office is the GAW merchandise store where patrons can find not only team merchandise, but also items pertaining to the GSL.
and in person.
At the 233-234 Camp Street, Georgetown box office, patrons flocked the venue to ensure they were among the first to secure their seats for this year’s event.
“So, merchandise is obviously something we look forward to seeing the entire stadium decked: in the Guyana Amazon Warriors clothes and more so, the Global Super League. We have new merchandise in stock, very affordable and very convenient. When you come and purchase tickets in store, you just take the escalator, come upstairs on the second floor and walk right into the store,” the Event Operations Coordinator informed.
The ExxonMobil Guyana GSL will see five teams, namely defending champions Rangpur Riders (Bangladesh); Guyana Amazon Warriors; Hobart Hurricanes (Australia); Central Stags (New Zealand) and Dubai Capitals competing for a US$1 million prize purse from July 10-July 18 at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD).
A look at the first fan to get his hands on ExxonMobil Guyana GSL tickets on Tuesday
Additionally, Merchandise is now available at the same Camp Street location