Finance Ministry finalising submissions
National Budget
Corentyne woman robbed at gunpoint in home GT woman charged, fined for importing dogs without necessary permit
Miner busted with ganja in boots at Big Creek Backdam
Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, and Branch Heads of the Guyana Defence Force on Monday, November 24, 2025, welcomed Commander of the Colombian Navy, Admiral Juan Ricardo Rozo for a courtesy call at the Executive Room, Base Camp Ayanganna (GDF photo)
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2025| GUYANATIMESGY.COM
BRIDGE OPENING
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, November 26 –07:40h–09:10h and Thursday, November 27 – 08:35h–10:05h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
WEATHER TODAY
Early sunshine turns to thundery showers and light rain during the day, with clouds dispersing to clear skies at night. Temperatures are expected to range between 22 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.
Winds: Easterly to East North-Easterly between 2.23 metres and 4.91 metres.
High Tide: 08:11h and 20:28h reaching maximum heights of 2.21 metres and 2.29 metres.
Low Tide: 13:58h reaching a minimum height of 1.04 metres.
Finance Ministry finalising submissions for 2026 National Budget – fiscal
Tpackage to align with PPP/C re-election manifesto
he Ministry of Finance is in the advanced stages of preparing submissions for the 2026 National Budget, which Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, says will be firmly grounded in the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C)’s recently renewed mandate and its 2025–2030 manifesto commitments. Speaking on the side-lines of his address to the 5th British Trade Mission to Guyana, Dr Singh explained that while the administration is newly re-elected, it benefits from continuity, experience and a longstanding reputation for predictable policymaking. He noted that the PPP/C entered the September 2025 elections with a comprehensive agenda that articulated both President Ali’s overarching development vision and sector-specific commitments that now form the Government’s contract with the Guyanese people.
Dr Singh emphasised that Budget 2026 will be built directly on this manifesto – a document that he said earned the PPP/C an increased majority at the polls. “We pride ourselves on hitting the ground running,” he stated, noting that work began from day one as Government officials continued engagements with sectors, regions and communities to refine priorities based on the needs identified across the country.
“We will continue this work. The next few weeks will be a very intense period of effort. We will continue the work that will see us being able to submit the budget in Parliament very early in the new year. The budget will see us beginning to deliver immediately on the commitments that we gave in the manifesto because it is our intention in this term of office to continue to do as we have always done, which is to ensure that we deliver our entire manifesto to the people of Guyana,” the Minister said.
Budget submissions
According to the Finance Minister, all Ministries and Government agencies have already prepared and submitted their initial budget proposals. These submissions expand on the manifesto’s commitments, providing detailed policy objectives and outlining programmes to be undertaken in the new term.
“The various Ministries and Government agencies have already prepared their respective budget submissions. And those budget sub-
missions, as you can imagine, flesh out in greater detail the commitments that would have been given in the manifesto. They develop further and flesh out in greater detail. Like I said, the various commitments, the various policy objectives and commitments that we would have articulated in the agenda… We in the Ministry of Finance have already started our engagement with the various agencies. In the first instance, various agencies within the Government, but in addition, engagement with other stakeholders, private sector groups, etc. Because, as you know, we also engage in an ongoing close consultation with the private sector and other stakeholder groups as part of our policy formula-
tion and budget preparation processes. So, work has started and is advancing very well,” Dr Singh explained.
Budget and Manifesto
Under the theme "A Secure, Prosperous and Sustainable Guyana", the PPP/C Government presented a whopping $1.382 trillion budget on January 17, 2025, marking the second budget in Guyana's history to cross the trillion-dollar mark and containing a wave of measures aimed at not only moving the economy forward but also bringing direct benefits to Guyanese.
The 2025 budget, a 20.6 per cent increase from 2024, focused on key priorities including infrastructure development, such as completing
the New Demerara River Bridge and a Gas to Energy (GtE) Project aimed at lowering electricity costs, among other support for social programmes, public services, and the enhancement of sectors like education, health, and sports. Back in August, the governing PPP/C launched its 2025 elections manifesto, outlining an ambitious five-year development agenda aimed at transforming Guyana into a modern and international model of growth. Themed “One Country, One People, One Future Forward Together for a Better Guyana”, the manifesto was unveiled to hundreds of supporters on Monday at Pegasus. Over the next five years, the PPP/C intends to build 12 hospitals and to deploy a fully integrated Emergency Medical Services (EMS) system across the country, with key deliverables. These include the establishment of a National Ambulance Authority as well as fleet expansion with the procurement of new land, air, and river ambulances. Further, the manifesto outlines plans for the construction of 40,000 new homes over the next five years, major roadworks, an aviation school, a deep-water port, 100 new schools, a Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME) Development Bank, an anti-corruption unit, and initiatives for Indigenous development.
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh
Views
Editor: Tusika Martin
News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761
Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707
Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Industrial Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown
Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com
Digital appointments & bureaucratic sloth
Guyana is poised to take a decisive step toward dismantling one of the most entrenched obstacles to national progress, the oftentimes sloth that characterises many public service interactions. The forthcoming launch of a digital appointment application, now in its testing phase, signals far more than a technological upgrade. It is an overdue cultural shift in how Government agencies interface with the population, how accountability is enforced, and how corruption is quietly but effectively undermined.
For decades, the service in Guyana, especially certain aspects of public service, has been burdened by antiquated systems that normalised long lines, wasted hours, and unpredictable service delivery. This dysfunction has imposed significant economic and social costs, from lost productivity to deep frustration among persons who depend on essential state services. In many instances, these inefficiencies created fertile ground for informal “facilitation” payments, as individuals sought ways to bypass the unpredictability of walk-in service. The new appointment application offers a direct countermeasure to these failures.
By allowing users to schedule appointments across any Government agency, select from available dates and times, and receive firm confirmation of service, the platform strikes at the heart of bureaucratic paralysis. Certainty replaces guesswork, and orderly scheduling replaces the long-standing culture of overcrowded offices.
The significance of this development becomes even clearer when viewed within the broader Governmental push toward full digitalisation. The mandate to digitise the National Insurance Scheme within eight months, for instance, marks an ambitious but necessary break from the past. The NIS has long been associated with delays, misplaced documents, long queues, and a cumbersome verification process. A fully digital NIS will not only strengthen operational reliability but will also restore respect for citizens’ time and dignity, elements too often taken for granted in traditional public-sector environments.
Digitalisation of this scale introduces powerful structural checks against corruption. When services become transparent, traceable, and standardised, opportunities for under-the-table payments diminish. Appointment systems create a documented trail. Digital submissions eliminate arbitrary gatekeeping. Real-time dashboards, such as the one now enabling continuous monitoring of public infrastructure projects, ensure leadership oversight that is immediate, data-driven, and less susceptible to manipulation. These systems enhance efficiency while also strengthening the integrity of public administration.
Importantly, the national movement toward a digital public service is not an isolated initiative. It forms part of a stated vision for a modernised, technology-driven state that keeps pace with global standards. A digitised economy requires institutions that function at comparable speed and transparency. Citizens expect responsive systems; investors demand predictable ones. Digitalisation bridges both expectations simultaneously.
However, for the transformation to be enduring, public servants must embrace a performance-orientated culture aligned with the efficiency of the systems being installed. The technology may streamline processes, but the professionalism, accountability, and responsiveness of employees will ultimately determine whether the benefits are fully realised. The era of lax service delivery must come to a close, replaced by a disciplined public-service ethos that mirrors the reliability demanded by a digitised environment.
As digital systems expand, the long-practised acceptance of delays, excuses, and bureaucratic stagnation becomes harder to sustain. Citizens who can check their NIS contributions instantly or book a Government appointment in minutes will no longer tolerate manual inefficiencies presented as unavoidable. Technology empowers the public while proportionately pressuring institutions to maintain high standards.
The expected impact on bribery cannot be overstated. When digital systems replace discretionary human gatekeeping, the incentive and opportunity for corruption diminish. When appointments are booked through transparent digital queues, the idea of paying someone to “speed up” a process becomes obsolete. Efficiency becomes the equaliser.
As Guyana continues to strengthen its institutions, the arrival of the digital appointment platform marks an essential moment. It sets a precedent for efficiency, integrity, and transparency in public service delivery. More importantly, it signals a national rejection of bureaucratic stagnation and the informal practices that often accompany it. If executed with consistency and supported by a renewed commitment within the public service workforce, this initiative could become a meaningful administrative reform of the era.
The country now stands at the threshold of a modern, accountable, and service-orientated future.
The new Govt hubs matter a lot
Dear Editor,
Anyone in Berbice who has ever had to take a day off work to chase a passport renewal, sort out a land-tax issue, update a birth record, or deal with a licensing matter knows the frustration. Too many offices, too much back-and-forth, and too much of our time wasted. That kind of runaround doesn’t just inconvenience people; it blocks opportunity for small businesses, young professionals, and families who need services done quickly and fairly.
That’s why I welcome the President’s announcement that Region Six will get three integrated Government Services Hubs. These hubs will bring key agencies together in one space and connect communities directly with decision-makers. President Ali, while he was in Berbice last week, explained that the hubs will include immigration, passport services, GRA, licensing, and civil registry transactions, all tied into online appointments and electronic ID services.
In plain terms, this means services closer to home and fewer trips to Georgetown. It means less confusion about where to go next. It means people from New Amsterdam to Skeldon, Black Bush Polder, and the wider Corentyne can walk into one place and solve multiple issues the same day. And it means NDCs are no longer left out of the loop.
Editor, what I also appreciate is the spirit behind it. The President spoke about a citizen-centred approach where “No issue
must be allowed to escape the loop of Government.” That’s a commitment Berbice people have been asking for: not more talk, but a system that actually works for ordinary lives. Nobody should have to feel like Government services are a maze. These hubs are a practical fix. If implemented well, they’ll save time, reduce costs, cut delays, and restore trust that public service exists to serve the public.
Yours sincerely, Malita Persaud
EU report did not accuse Govt of exploiting citizens’ personal data, and no evidence of any breach has surfaced
Dear Editor,
The recent hullabaloo over the alleged misuse of cash-grant recipients’ personal information has strayed far from the evidence. The European Union’s final election report has repeatedly been cited as proof that data was weaponised for political purposes. Yet the report never made such a claim. What it highlighted was a structural problem: Guyana’s incomplete data protection framework and the vulnerabilities this creates. That is an institutional observation, not a finding of wrongdoing. Apparently, even check-
ing in with citizens about programmes like the cash grant, school feeding, or farm subsidies is now scandalous. Heaven forbid that a political party’s election staff make calls to gauge the effectiveness or satisfaction with Government social programmes. Nevertheless, this is exactly the kind of routine activity being misrepresented as misconduct.
The President addressed the claims directly, and his explanation deserves attention. Citizens voluntarily share their phone numbers across multiple non-Government channels, and the presence of those numbers
outside a single registry does not suggest a breach. Political parties routinely collect contact information through community engagement, canvassing, volunteer networks, event attendance, and public outreach. None of this requires – or implies – unauthorised access to Government-held databases. In his words, no evidence of misuse exists, which is why he rejected the allegations outright.
This distinction is critical. Much of the public concern assumes that any unsolicited political message must come from a compromised Government system.
In reality, information circulates in Guyana through ordinary processes. Phone numbers move between people, organisations, and lists regularly. Their appearance elsewhere does not, by itself, indicate political interference. This is precisely why the President’s intervention matters. He acknowledged the gaps in data protection while drawing a clear line between structural vulnerabilities and allegations of misconduct. Recognising a problem without conflating it with wrongdoing is a nuance that should not be overlooked.
A performance of the Alakondre Dron, a Surinamese drumming ensemble comprising a mix of cultures, at Suriname's recent 50th Independence anniversary celebrations at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (Embassy of the Republic of Suriname photo)
The Orange Economy in Guyana Remarkable performance of Guyana’s economy
Dear Editor,
Chances are that most people reading this article have never heard of the Orange Economy (OE). This is nothing to worry about because, in Guyana, it is a fresh idea that is now being developed.
The Orange Economy is grounded in creative and ideas-based value. Specifically, the OE refers to the ways in which economic value is generated through creative work, innovation, and intellectual property. The OE spans multiple sectors and activities, including but not restricted to tourism and cultural heritage, sports, film, television and visual media, arts and crafts, music, the performing arts, literature and publishing, fashion and design, and nature.
Research shows that on a world scale, the OE is massive by any measure. It employs over 50 million persons worldwide, and it is estimated that it will contribute 10 per cent of global GDP by 2030. The creative industries are expected to contribute more than US$3 trillion in 2025. By another estimate, if the OE were a sovereign nation, it would rank as the world’s 4th largest economy.
During the Office of the President (OP)’s two-day stint in Region Six, President Ali outlined the Orange Economy at the conceptual level, as well as the ways in which this innovation will contribute to the diversification of the economy, provide opportunities for businesses across sectors, and allow hinterland regions to be more structurally integrated into national development. The OE is particularly important to young people because most of the jobs in this area
are held by those between the ages of 18 and 29.
President Ali committed his administration to developing the requisite infrastructure (both visible and invisible) in order to facilitate the emergence of the OE. The forthcoming Guyana Development Bank, which will be capitalised with at least US$200 million, is one policy measure, among others, that will help to push the Orange Economy from concept to actual practice.
During the OP Region Six outreach, the President talked extensively about Orange Economylinked projects currently in progress, as well as new ones coming on board. The Stadium at Palmyra, for instance, is more than a piece of physical infrastructure. Rather, it will be at the centre for a slew of economic activities where small- and medium-sized businesses will thrive. Sporting events will see hotel rooms and restaurants filled up, shops filled with customers, and event-linked jobs abound.
The President unveiled a major development for 63 Beach, where 100 cabins will be built. Sixty of the 100 will be owned and operated by young women, an initiative that is consistent with the Administration’s intent to empower women and draw them in more systematically into the mainstream business environment.
In Region Six and elsewhere in the country, much can be done to leverage the economic potential of our numerous cultural festivals, sports activities, the flora and fauna, and the rich history of this nation.
Yours sincerely, Dr Randy Persaud
Dear Editor,
The strength of any national economy is directly linked to the policy direction of the sitting Government, particularly its management of economic development, investor confidence, and national security. The recently released 2025 Mid-Year Report once again confirms the remarkable performance of Guyana’s economy.
According to the report, overall real GDP grew by an estimated 7.5 per cent in the first six months of 2025, with total real GDP growth for the full year projected at 15.2 per cent. Equally noteworthy is the performance of the non-oil economy, which expanded by 13.8 per cent in the first half of the year and is projected to grow by 13.9 per cent for all of 2025. This marks the fifth consecutive year of strong growth in both the oil and non-oil sectors.
These outcomes are not accidental. They reflect the clear and deliberate policy direction of the PPP/C Government under the leadership of President Irfaan Ali. There is an inimitable connection between the Government’s strategic priorities and the results we
are now witnessing across every major sector.
President Ali has repeatedly emphasised the importance of building an economy that is resilient and diversified, one that will thrive long after oil production tapers. He has identified several pillars that support this vision, including empowering small businesses and communities; advancing energy security and the green transition; promoting innovation and digital transformation; and expanding tourism, the creative sector, and the blue economy.
Government investment in these areas is already bearing fruit. The manufacturing sector continues to outperform expectations, reflecting both private-sector confidence and a supportive business climate. The construction sector, boosted by the Government’s aggressive housing programme and strong private investment, recorded an impressive 29.9 per cent growth in the first half of 2025. This includes the ongoing development of new housing schemes and multiple hotels now under construction.
The services sector also demonstrated steady expansion, growing by 6.6 per cent in the first half of the year. Increases were noted in wholesale and retail trade, administrative support services, finance and insurance, and professional and technical services, clear evidence that citizens and businesses across Guyana are participating in and benefiting from this growth.
Confidence in the economy is further reflected in rising banking credit, with real estate mortgages increasing by 11.4 per cent to $173.5 billion and similar surges in lending to the private sector and private citizens.
I am extremely proud of the Government’s proactive commitment to economic diversification, expanding agriculture, strengthening food security, developing tourism, and supporting small businesses and the yielded results. The expansion of Guyana’s private sector is evident, and it is clear that the initiatives of the Government are clearly working.
Yours sincerely,
Alvin Hamilton
EU report did not accuse Govt...
The serious work ahead lies in modernising Guyana’s data protection laws. Clear rules on collection, storage, sharing, and auditing are overdue. Strengthened legislation will make it possible to distinguish genuine breaches from routine administrative circulation or voluntary sharing of contact information. Updating the system must not be used as an excuse to assign blame
where none exists.
In short, the EU report did not accuse the Government of exploiting citizens’ personal data, and no evidence of any breach has surfaced. The President’s explanation reflects the practical reality of how information flows in this country. Inflating these facts into a scandal undermines trust in the very institutions working to promote transparency.
What Guyana needs is a sober, evidence-driven conversation about data protection. Speculation cannot replace fact. Only by separating rumour from reality can laws genuinely protect citizens while preserving confidence in governance.
Kind regards, Erin Northe
Page Foundation
Angles
Angles are formed where two rays or lines meet at a common point. The common point is called the vertex of the angle and the rays are called the arms of the angle.
Angles can be named by the points that exist on the arms and vertex. Example 1
Types of angles
This angle is named ABC, with the vertex letter in the middle.
There are various types of angles, too. They are primarily different because of how wide they open, or where they are located and how
they relate to each other.
The types of angles can be seen in the table below:
Make a data table in your lab notebook, like Table 1 below, where you can record the data you get from your experiment. Step 1: Place your toe on the starting line you prepared earlier and then throw
one of your planes. Step 2: Use the tape measure to measure how far (in centimetres or meters) the paper plane flew from the starting line. Record this distance in the data table in your lab notebook. This will be "Flight 1" for "Plane 1."
Repeat Steps 1-2 four more times using the same plane, trying to throw the plane as similarly as possible. Doing these repeats will help ensure that your data is accurate and reproducible. Before you fly the plane, make sure that it is in good condition and that the folds and points are still sharp. Record the distances in the data table in your lab notebook.
Once you have flown plane 1 five
By William Butler Yeats
Dance there upon the shore; What need have you to care For wind or water's roar? And tumble out your hair That the salt drops have wet; Being young you have not known The fool's triumph, nor yet Love lost as soon as won, Nor the best labourer dead And all the sheaves to bind. What need have you to dread The monstrous crying of wind?
[Source: Poetry (December 1912)]
Pick any time period and any place where people were migrating in large numbers. Write a story based on a character or a few characters who are currently on a voyage from one place to another.
times, add flaps to the back of the plane to increase its drag, as shown in Figure 2.
(Credit: Ben Finio, Science Buddies/ Science Buddies)
Cut four slits that are each roughly 2.5 cm long along the back edge of the wings.
One in the centre of each wing, and one where each wing meets the central fold. This will result in four tabs (two on each wing). Fold two of the tabs up 90 degrees, and two of the tabs down 90 degrees, as
shown in Figure 2. Repeat Steps 1-2 four more times Then repeat the procedure used for plane 1 using the other two planes you made.
Record the distances the planes fly in the table.
Using the data you collected in the data table in your lab notebook, calculate the average distance that each plane travelled, with and without added drag. Record your results in the column labelled "Average" in the data table. How did adding drag to your paper planes affect how far they flew?
(Michelle Maranowski, PhD and Teisha Rowland, PhD, Science Buddies)
Major gold mines on the horizon – Finance Minister
...calls for greater UK investment in sector, highlights benefit of northern Brazil link
Guyana’s gold mining industry is expected to undergo major expansion, as at least two large-scale gold mines are projected to come into operation over the next five years. This was reaffirmed by Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, as he urged both local and international investors to position themselves to benefit from the massive opportunities emerging in the sector.
Delivering the keynote address to the Fifth British Trade Mission to Guyana, Dr Singh emphasised that while Guyana has long been a gold-producing nation, new exploration successes and recent project announcements have paved the way for “very bright and attractive prospects” for the development of large-scale operations. He noted that interest and participation in the sector are not limited to mining companies alone,
that because we have had, for example, as members of this delegation, we have had heavy equipment suppliers coming into Guyana, and I believe... at least one heavy equipment manufacturer and supplier has entered into a strategic partnership with a Guyana partner, and so there is no gold mining without significant heavy equipment, significant other related and ancillary services, including construction, including haulage, transport, logistics, shipping and all of the things that go with gold mining,” Dr Singh explained.
Other significant, productive sectors
Beyond gold, Dr Singh highlighted that Guyana’s bauxite industry is also poised for a significant ramp-up, with metallurgical-grade bauxite now being produced in Linden, Region 10 and further expansion planned to meet increasing global demand.
ue-added products through agro-processing and agribusiness. He stressed that the same pattern of growth and investment potential seen in mining and agriculture is replicated across every major sector of the economy.
“In agriculture there is a whole host of opportunities there simply because agriculture, like I said, we have vast amounts of arable land, abundant fresh water and all of the other conditions that are essential to be competitive in agriculture, and very importantly, we have increasingly been emphasising agro-processing and agribusiness, the whole production chain, because we don't want – President Ali has said repeatedly –we don't want simply to be a producer of primary commodities; we want to be also a producer of value-added products, including in the agricultural sector,” Dr Singh said.
Brazil link
Further, underscoring Guyana’s strategic geographic position, Dr Singh emphasised that ongoing works on the Linden–Lethem highway, supported in part by UK financing through the Caribbean Infrastructure Fund, will soon provide seamless access to northern Brazil.
“Guyana has become the largest trade partner with the United Kingdom in the Caribbean, the UK's largest trade partner in the Caribbean. That's a tremendous; that's a very significant achievement… But over the course of the next five years, the road to Brazil will be completed and will be linked with a deep-water harbour
stressing that opportunities extend widely to businesses involved in construction, heavy-duty equipment, logistics, transport, and shipping.
“Even in recent months we have heard significant announcements of planned projects that will see the build-out of large-scale gold mines in Guyana and that will see gold continue to be a...strong contributor to overall economic growth,” the Minister said.
“Now you do not necessarily need to be a gold mining company to have an interest in a development like
Similarly, agriculture remains a pillar of economic activity, with the government committing to open 100,000 acres of new farmland over the next five years. Major private investments in corn, soya bean, rice, and sugar production, supported by public infrastructure development, are expected to strengthen Guyana’s role as a regional supplier and drive downstream agro-processing.
Dr Singh reiterated President Ali’s repeated message that Guyana is committed not only to producing primary commodities but also to generating val-
missions have successfully secured partnerships or concluded transactions. He welcomed the newly appointed UK Trade Envoy to the Commonwealth Caribbean, Paulette Hamilton MP, and commended British High Commissioner Jane Miller for her leadership in promoting bilateral ties.
He also reaffirmed that the Guyanese Government remains strongly committed to building a resilient, diversified economy and to deepening its commercial partnership with the UK.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the British High Commissioner was Alain
Archibald, Chargé d’Affaires at the British High Commission. Additional remarks came from Chris Bennet, Managing Director of the Caribbean Council, and senior officials of the UK’s
on Guyana's Atlantic coast. So, what that does immediately for anybody who's doing business in Guyana or who's investing in Guyana is it immediately opens up northern Brazil to you. So, an investment in Guyana is literally an investment in capacity to serve the market in northern Brazil,” he added.
The Minister used the occasion to highlight the deepening economic relationship between Guyana and the United Kingdom. He reported that nearly 40 per cent of companies participating in previous trade
Department for Business and Trade: D’Jamila Ward, Regional Director for the Commonwealth Caribbean, and Sherwyn Naughton, Country Director.
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, addressing the Fifth British Trade Mission to Guyana
Modern…
…Opposition
Every morning, your Eyewitness scours the news for reports – any mention!! – of the Opposition doing their opposing so he can give them a mention and be spared being drawn and quartered by some EU commission or other – for facilitating “incumbency advantage”!! God forbid!! So what was there in his (Tuesday) morning’s newsfeed as he pecks away at this piece?? Well, there was Sanction Man and Daddy visiting the GT Magistrate’s Court – to which they must’ve ambled over since it’s just a stone’s throw (your Eyewitness used to field on the boundary!!) from their offices where those tonnes of gold were smuggled… er… allegedly smuggled!!
Thing is, the smuggling matter ain’t going forward, as Magistrate Judy – our version of “Judge Judy” – seems to be stuck at what your Eyewitness understands – from voraciously devouring police crime shows – to be the “discovery” stage. This is where the prosecution gotta show all the evidence it has against the defendant – here Sanction Man and Daddy – so their lawyers aren’t ambushed during the trial!! Excepting that here, there ain’t gonna be no trial – and Magistrate Judy simply gotta decide whether the prosecution has an ARGUABLE case!!
So they gotta return on Friday, with some more evidence to be produced – which – this being an extradition case – evidently has to be “diplomatically” processed. Whatever that means!! It’s about as exciting as watching City Hall slowly – but inevitably! – revert to its dingy state!! Sanction Man seems to’ve decided to do a “two-fer-one” by then ambling over from the Magistrate Court to lead some WIN supporters (they wore blue WIN T-shirts!!) in a protest in front of “Parliament” – he said!! The protest was for him not being sworn in as the LOO – the “Leader of the Opposition” and not the place to take a leak. Problem was –it wasn’t the Parliament Buildings but the “Public Buildings” he marched in front of – in the hot sun!! It must’ve slipped his mind that he’d attended “Parliament” in that unpaidduty Lambo on the East Coast at the Convention Center!!
There were no officials in the public buildings to witness the righteous indignation vociferously expressed stoutly by such supporters as his chief cook and bottle washer, Primus!! Your Eyewitness could only regret that Sanction Man and his Scrapehead battalion were Johnny-comelatelies to this political business. Otherwise he woulda known that a more effective protest had been conducted right there by Eusi Kwayana – the leader of another fringe party. He’d decided to fast to death. He might or might not have chained himself to the antique wrought iron fence around the public buildings!!
And what about the PNC junior opposition party?? They got a mention for demanding the national E-ID programme being rolled out should have parliamentary oversight.
…multilateralism
For small states – like us – to count in the modern state system, it’s essential that multilateral institutions like the UN, WTO, UNCCC’s COP, etc, formed after WWII – where we at least have a nominal vote – are maintained. Sadly, however, even the behemoths are increasingly being sidelined as the hegemonic US is challenged by China and the regional blocks it’s fostering.
The illusion China’s pushing is it won’t act like a hegemon and throw its weight around – like the US – in the new order. But that’s what all big powers say, don’t they?? They always push an ideal in which small states like us will support their “benevolent” formulations. The latest victim is G-20 – the 20 largest economies – which just concluded its summit in South Africa!!
With the US not attending – and proposing a junior embassy official be handed the protocols for the next year’s summit in Florida – SA President Ramaphosa closed the summit by banging a gavel!
Tit for tat – and small states become irrelevant!!
…international bargaining
Large nations used to push their self-interests under the cover of values like “democracy” that purported to assist the smaller nations. No more!! President Trump has removed this hypocrisy under the motto – Speak loudly and carry a big stick!!
Faster timelines for local content certification take effect from January 2026
The Ministry of Natural Resources, through the Local Content Secretariat (LCS), on Tuesday announced new structured timelines for the reviewing and approving of applications for Local Content Certificates. The new timelines, aimed at modernising and streamlining the process, will take effect from January 2026.
Under the new structure, sole proprietorships and landlords will see new applications being processed within five working days, while renewals will be processed within three working days. For 100 per cent Guyanese-owned companies and business partnerships, the new applications will be processed within 15 working days, while renewals will be processed within 10 working
days.
For all other companies the new applications will be processed within 21 working days and renewals within 15 working days.
The Ministry stressed that the new timelines will only begin after all required documents have been received.
The updated framework is part of the Government’s wider mandate under President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali to expand and improve public services.
“The move is intended to bring greater clarity, predictability and efficiency to the process, ensuring that businesses and companies understand exactly how long approvals will take once all the required documents have been submitted,” the Ministry said in a statement.
An updated list of the
documents required under this strengthened framework will be published on the petroleum.gov.gy website. “These timelines… [ensure] that processing periods are consistent, transparent and aligned with the Government’s commitment to a more responsive pub-
lic service,” the statement said.
Local Content
The move is aimed at modernising and streamlining a system that many Guyanese businesses rely on in order to participate in Guyana’s rapidly growing
oil and gas sector.
It was in 2021, with the passage of the Local Content Act, that the Government established 40 service areas in the oil and gas sector reserved for Guyanese business participation. Under this legislation oil companies must procure services from local providers to varying degrees.
However, to benefit from these opportunities, businesses must first obtain a Local Content Certificate from the Secretariat. Without this certification, Guyanese-owned companies are not eligible to access contracts in these protected service areas.
Established in 2022, the Secretariat was put in place to manage the Local Content Register for businesses and professionals to advertise their services. As of November 2024, 1,032 companies had been certified and were listed on the Local Content Register, confirming their eligibility to supply goods and services to the sector.
Digitisation efforts
However, the Secretariat has acknowledged that some businesses have faced challenges in getting their local content certificates.
Head of the Secretariat, Michael Munroe, recently noted that the agency is advancing its efforts to digitise services to address delays and improve efficiency. Earlier this month, Munroe confirmed that the Secretariat is expanding its digitisation push, including the development of an online application portal expected to launch in January 2026, coinciding with the new processing timeline. The portal will allow applicants to submit documents online, reducing bottlenecks and manual processing times. Digitisation efforts follow previous initiatives to improve access to opportunities in the oil and gas industry. In February, the
Secretariat launched the Local Content App at the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo (GECSCE). The App is meant to enable Guyanese to be better connected to available opportunities in the oil and gas sector. A Local Content Certificate is not required to browse the app’s listings.
“Stakeholders across Guyana’s petroleum industry and its wider supply chain are encouraged to download and utilise the Local Content App, launched in February of this year. This platform brings suppliers closer to contractors and subcontractors by streamlining access to procurement needs and strengthening local participation in the sector,” the statement said.
GCCI welcomes announcement The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has since issued a statement welcoming the announcement as a positive step for local businesses.
“The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry commends the Local Content Secretariat on the move to improve its processing time for local content certificates,” the Chamber said in its statement.
“This initiative, which focuses on efficiency, provides guided timelines and allows businesses to access this crucial document in a timely manner.”
“The GCCI has been in continuous discussions with the secretariat on matters affecting local businesses, including its transaction processing time and the updating of the Local Content Act Schedule of Services.
The GCCI looks forward to continued dialogue with the LCS, and the effective implementation of this decision which is anticipated to improve the ease of doing business in Guyana.”
Significant advances recorded in health sector despite current challenges
Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony addressing the high-level Joint Stakeholder Consultation on Health and Wellbeing held at the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) office in Georgetown
The Ministry of Health is reporting major advancements in nationwide healthcare delivery, even as the sector continues to confront longstanding and emerging challenges. This affirmation came on Tuesday as Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony participated in a high-level Joint Stakeholder Consultation on Health and Wellbeing held at the Pan American Health Organisation/ World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) office in Georgetown.
The consultation brought together key national and international partners, including officials from government ministries, regional health authorities, hospitals, health centres, and global agencies such as United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and UN Women. The meeting forms part of the United Nations’ ongoing development of the Multi-Country Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (MSDCF) for the English- and Dutchspeaking Caribbean for 2027–2031. This framework will guide future UN–Government of Guyana cooperation, with health and wellbeing expected to remain a central priority.
Delivering remarks at the forum, Minister Anthony reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to building a stronger, more resilient health system through both infrastructure expansion and inno-
vative public health initiatives. “Our work in health and wellbeing is about more than treating illness – it’s about prevention, early detection, and creating a system that supports the long-term wellness of all Guyanese,” he said.
Substantial 3-year progress
The Minister detailed substantial progress achieved over the past three years, crediting investments that have significantly expanded access to healthcare. These include the opening of six new regional hospitals and the ongoing construction of eight additional modern facilities, among them paediatric and specialised hospitals. Twenty-five new health centres have been established nationwide, with ten more now under construction. The Ministry is also expanding health posts in underserved communities to ensure equitable access to primary care services.
Minister Anthony highlighted several key programmes aimed at improving prevention and wellness outcomes. Strengthened maternal and child health services, expanded immunisation coverage supported by UNICEF, and enhanced school health screenings covering nearly 70,000 nursery and primary school children are among the flagship initiatives currently underway. The Ministry is also intensifying its response to chronic non-communicable diseases, nutrition challenges, lifestyle-related health risks, and mental
health concerns.
In addition, the Minister outlined continuing national efforts to control and eliminate major infectious diseases, including HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, filaria, and other neglected infections. He noted that these programmes benefit significantly from close collaboration with international partners.
“The engagement of national and international stakeholders in consultations like these allows us to align priorities, share lessons learned, and plan future interventions that are evidence-based and contextually relevant. Together, we can shape a healthier future for Guyana,” Dr Anthony said.
Human resource development remains a critical
area of focus, with ongoing training initiatives for nurses, doctors, administrators, and technicians carried out in partnership with PAHO and other organisations. These efforts are designed to strengthen the
healthcare workforce and support the sector’s rapid expansion.
Tuesday’s consultation provided a key platform for stakeholders to examine existing gaps, emerging opportunities, and sector-wide
priorities, ensuring that the upcoming UN Cooperation Framework reflects shared national goals. The Ministry says it remains committed to reinforcing partnerships that advance health and wellbeing for all Guyanese.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2025| GUYANATIMESGY.COM
Labour Ministry launches probe into Aurora Gold Mines working conditions after violent confrontation
–
says no prior complaints were made
The Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning has launched an independent investigation into working conditions at Aurora Gold Mines, following the circulation of several videos on the Facebook page and posts by Team Mohamed, alleging serious breaches in workers’ rights, safety, and compensation by the Chinese-owned Zijin Gold Mountain Ya Mei Construction Inc.
According to an official statement, the Ministry confirmed that it had never received any formal complaints on the matters now in the public domain. “This is the first time such concerns have come to our attention through public circulation, and we will address them,” the Ministry noted.
Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith, has instructed the Occupational Safety and
Health (OSH) Department to launch a thorough and immediate investigation into the allegations showcased in the videos, which include claims of unsafe working conditions, wage disputes, and issues surrounding salary increases. The investigation will involve consultations with all relevant parties to ensure a factual and comprehensive assessment of the situation.
On the issue of wages and fringe benefits raised in one of the videos, Minister Griffith is urging both employees and employers to engage the Ministry directly and utilise its peaceful conciliation process, which is guided by the Labour Act. This mechanism, he stressed, exists to help resolve disputes in a structured, fair, and amicable manner that leaves
both sides satisfied.
The Ministry reaffirmed its strong commitment to safeguarding workers’ rights, emphasising that every worker in Guyana is entitled to operate in an environment that is safe, healthy, and fair. The statement further highlighted that the Labour Act
and the Occupational Safety and Health Act form the legal foundation for workplace relations, safety standards, and dispute resolution.
However, Minister Griffith noted that the Ministry remains dedicated to strengthening existing protections and ensuring strict compliance across all sectors, including mining – one of the most high-risk industries in the country.
The Ministry encouraged workers, employers, and the public to channel concerns through official avenues to ensure timely intervention and formal resolution.
A screengrab from the video of the violent confrontation at Aurora Gold Mines
“I would have been one of those shoes”
– survivors’
raw testimonies anchor Red Shoe Project as 16 Days of Activism
Twas not a single moment but “a series of small steps… late-night tears, and prayers of courage.” And when she finally walked out with her children, she felt “fear, yes, but also… freedom. The air smelled different.”
Both women used their platform to also highlight gaps in the systems meant to protect victims.
Seenarine described her court experience as “brutal”, adding, “You’re saying for us to leave… but if we’re leaving, you have to provide something.” She urged practical support such as “workshop to empower us… like jobs.”
The Red Shoe Project, a partnership between the Women and Gender Equality Commission and the Civil Society National Reference Group, invites the
be able to question him on that.” She added, “Change begins with you. If you don’t change, then nothing will change.”
UN Resident Coordinator Jean Njeri Kamau told the
vivors. “Every effort you make… every word of kindness… every instance where you challenge online hate speech… is important,” Kamau said.
Last year, the National
2025
warrant to assist someone under threat. It comprises 58 clauses and adopts a “modern framework designed to offer expansive protection.”
But organisers stressed that the law alone cannot shift culture, social norms, or survivor outcomes.
“We still have a global problem,” Kamau said, noting that despite international promises since Beijing in 1995, women are still “putting our hands out there and saying we need to stop violence against women.”
Survivors echoed that sentiment. “If we’re going to advise us women to leave… then you have to open doors for us,” Sonia said. “We can do better… so much more for our women.”
For many who spoke, the installation was not simply a memorial but a demand for change.
he Red Shoe Project’s public memorial at the Georgetown Seawall opened this year’s 16 Days of Activism not with officials, but with the unfiltered voices of women who had survived years of domestic terror, voices that organisers placed at the centre of the event.
said the abuse escalated over time. “One day, he hit me so hard behind my neck, and I literally peed myself and pooped myself,” she recounted candidly. “Had it not been for those seminars and workshops, I would have been one of those shoes. Trust me.”
“I sat there, and I was listening to my sister’s story… Sometimes we women, we want to hold on to material things. We don’t want to let go,” survivor Indra told the crowd, as dozens of shoes, each symbolising a woman affected by gender-based violence, lined the seawall bandstand.
Indra, who was married at 19 and remained in the relationship for 27 years,
Another survivor, Sonia Seenarine, offered a starkly similar journey of endurance and escape. “For 15 years, I lived in a marriage that looked normal on the outside… But behind closed doors, my home was a battlefield,” she told the audience. “One day… I looked at my children’s eyes, and I saw something I have been ignoring for too long. They were afraid too.”
Seenarine said leaving
public to donate shoes “in the name of someone and maybe share a story.” The installation, organisers said, is a visible reminder of the women “who have lost their lives to violence.”
Behind the bandstand, photos of murdered women fluttered on a line. According to the organisers, violence surged early in the year and only “lessened at this time, so people are relaxed again,” a pattern they warned will repeat unless prevention is intentional. “If every day we wake up with the intention to not be violent… it’ll not be so traumatic for us,” said civil-society representative Bibi Ahmad.
Ahmad challenged cultural narratives about violence: “A man was saying… men are naturally creatures of violence… I want to
crowd that violence against women “remains one of the most widespread human rights concerns worldwide,” with “one in three women” experiencing violence in their lifetime. She added that “one woman or girl is killed every 10 minutes by an intimate partner or family member.”
Kamau emphasised the rising threat of digital abuse: “The online world… has become a source of harm for many women and girls… especially those with public visibility.” She warned that online acts “go on into real-life harm… coercion, physical violence, and in most tragic cases, femicide.”
She called for a “whole-of-Government approach”, citing the need for data, prevention work, online safety investment, and sustained support for sur-
“Every pair of shoes represents life that was taken too soon,” Sonia reminded the crowd. “Let us make a promise that we will raise our voice so their silence is not the end of the story.”
Indra, standing tall after decades of abuse, shared the message she now teaches others: “Look yourself in the mirror and motivate yourself because your life matters. Your children’s life matters.”
And she ended her testimony with the declaration that carried the weight of the afternoon:
Assembly passed the Family Violence Act, replacing the 1996 Domestic Violence Act. The new law includes “sweeping new provisions”, such as allowing Police to enter a premises without a
“Today, whenever I go out to speak, I introduce myself. I’m Indra, a proud divorcee… I can motivate women to be independent and to start loving themselves.”
Indra
UN Resident Coordinator to Guyana, Jean Njeri Kamau
Sonia Seenarine
Ramsammy’s Ruminations
President Irfaan Ali is right – the EU Observers got it very wrong
This column challenges the EU to name one governing political party anywhere in the world that does not boast of its achievements in Government and that does not seize every opportunity, particularly at election time, to do so. Highlighting completed big projects, particularly transformative projects, during election time is part of the political campaign of every governing political party in the world. It is part and parcel of political campaigning in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and Africa. Talking about and demonstrating promises made and kept is not an unfair advantage of incumbency. Prohibiting a governing political party from taking credit for its achievements is like forcing a batsman to play one-handed against the best bowlers in the world.
Dr
The governing PPP and the incumbent President Irfaan Ali utilised the messaging of “promises made, promises kept” as a springboard for the Elections 2025 campaign. They promised new hospitals in the Elections 2020 campaign; they commissioned six of these hospitals in the months before Elections 2025. Why commission it then and not, say, in 2024? The commissioning was done when the contractors were ready to hand over. The transformative, single largest investment ever – the Demerara River Bridge – was not commissioned before Elections 2025 because it was not handed over to the Government before Elections 2025. The Heroes’ Highway was commissioned in 2024 because it was finished in 2024. It is the advantage of incumbency that every political party and every political leader has used in every single country in the world. We repeat our challenge to the EU observer team – tell us that this is not true.
In every democracy in the world, particularly in the age of social media, each political party will have an advantage in certain sections of the media. In America, Fox News was and remains unapologetic in giving advantage to the Republican Party. MSNBC similarly gives an advantage to the Democrats. In Guyana, it is no different. Some parts of the media give an advantage to the PPP, and others give the advantage to the opposition. While the state media focused on the Government’s achievements, there were significant parts of the media – printed, TV, radio and social media – that were brutal in painting the Government in a bad light. The EU chose to ignore this reality.
Did somebody forget to tell the EU observers that reporters from state media or media perceived to be friendly to the PPP and President Irfaan Ali were prevented by the opposition itself when they tried to provide coverage for the opposition? Azruddin Mohamed did not want to talk to the media perceived to be friendly to the PPP. Aubrey Norton aggressively prevented those reporters from getting close to him.
The PPP is more than 75 years old. It has always depended on its supporters. From the old days when it passed around a hat at public meetings to fund its operation and its election campaign to today when it holds fundraisers where supporters pay to eat or be entertained, the PPP has always depended on its supporters to fund election campaigns. That other political parties always depend on only a few donors is not the fault of the PPP and its supporters. Did big donors support the PPP? Of course, there are always those who come at election time. But the PPP throughout its history has always mostly depended on its supporters across the country. It is why when they went into Elections 2020 as an opposition force, they could have matched the then incumbent PNC-led APNU/AFC.
The EU election observers were unambiguous, like other observer missions, that the elections were free and fair and met international standards. They felt compelled, however, to find something to balance their conclusion that the elections were free and fair. It appears that they wanted to give the losing political parties something as consolation.
President Irfaan Ali took serious exception to aspects of the published report from the EU election observer team that was present in Guyana during the run-up and the conduct of the elections on September 1, 2025. While the EU observer mission was explicit and unambiguous that the elections were conducted professionally and were free and fair, the mission decided to comment on other matters. President Ali did not object to the mission’s desire to comment on other matters. But he took them to task for not presenting the whole picture.
Guyana’s General and Regional Elections were held on September 1, 2025. All of the accredited observer missions concluded that the elections conducted on September 1, 2025, in Guyana were free and fair, conducted professionally and adhering to all international standards. The UNDP summarised the conclusion best and concluded that the elections met all conditions set out in international norms to be deemed without any shadow of a doubt as free and fair. In fact, all observer missions from CARICOM, the OAS, the EU, the UNDP itself, the Commonwealth, the Carter Center and other local and international observers concluded the same. GECOM must be commended for conducting smooth elections in all aspects. Election Day was smooth, with very little for anyone to complain about.
The management of the vote counting and relaying the results to the public was perhaps the best ever. The public was accessing information almost as rapidly as GECOM itself. As soon as SOPs were signed off by presiding officers and election day officials at the polling stations, they were made available on the GECOM website. This was completely different from 2020 when GECOM staff in collaboration with certain political parties attempted to change the results as were reported in SOPs. Bravo, GECOM.
Leslie Ramsammy
Corentyne woman robbed at gunpoint in home
A44-year-old woman of Brighton Village, Corentyne, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) is traumatised after being robbed at
18:00h when she heard someone talking in the yard. Her 18-year-old son went to investigate. She said she hear a voice and when she turned around,
And the money is inside the room, in my bag, on the barrel. And he said, ‘Show me where the money is’.
He put the gun on my back and let me walk and go in the room. And he take out my black bag and my money went in the apron… Then he said, ‘Where's the rest of the money’? And I said, ‘We don't get more money. That's all we get. And he said, ‘We know you as business people...,” she said, adding that the gun was still being held to her side.
The vendor said she pleaded with the bandits not to hurt her children.
“I begged them and tell them that my two children
gunpoint in her home on Monday evening. The bandit invaded the house while her children were present, carting off cash before escaping.
Swarthwati Seecharran was at home with her children when two gunmen, one masked and both carrying what appeared to be handguns, confronted her in the kitchen. The attacks left her shocked. She hardly had time to comprehend what was taking place.
The Rose Hall Town market vendor, speaking with this publication, recalled that it was about
she saw two men who both entered the home.
“And the one with the mask run to my son... And the one without the mask got to me in the kitchen,” she recalled. Still shaken, the woman related that the gunmen forced her to turn off the light and threatened her while simultaneously demanding cash and other valuables. Afraid for her life and the safety of her children, she complied as he held a gun to her back.
“[The intruder] said, ‘Where's the money that what you get’? So I said, I have a little bit of money.
is disabled children, let them don't do them nothing…”
According to the woman, the bandit carted off approximately $700,000, including sales money and cash for household expenses.
I had a bag that get $385,000 inside. The money was to pay two different instalments and ah take it out and we give them, and we tell them, that's all, we didn't get more money. That is all we have. In all is close to $700,000 because I had from what I sell Saturday too all in my apron.”
The perpetrators re-
Miner busted with ganja in boots at Big Creek Backdam
A55-year-old miner was taken into police custody following the discovery of a quantity of cannabis in a pair of boots on Monday at Big Creek Backdam, North West District (NWD), Region One (Barima-Waini).
A Police report stated that during a patrol in the area, ranks intercepted a motorcar in the vicinity of Big Creek, Backdam, which was being driven by a 38-year-old male, with the 55-year-old as an occupant. A search was conducted on their persons and the vehicle, but nothing illegal was found.
However, a subsequent search conducted on a haversack belonging to the suspect unearthed a quantity of ganja hidden in a pair of boots. He was arrested and
The ganja that was found hidden in a pair of boots
taken to the Port Kaituma Police Station, where the ganja was weighed and
amounted to 46.1 grams. He remains in custody pending charges.
through the back door after inquiring from her son if there was any other way out other that the front door when they entered from.
They left and broke the back fence and made their way into the backlands.
Seecharran says that her children remain shaken by the ordeal and is calling
for swift police action. Residents of the area say robberies have become too frequent and are urging stronger patrols along the Corentyne Coast.
Violence against women and girls amplified by technology – UN Secretary General on International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women
Violence against women and girls is a global scourge. And in our digital age, it is being amplified by the reach and speed of technology. That is why online protection is the focus of this year’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
Online harassment, deepfakes and hate speech are proliferating. Misogynistic content is moving from the margins to
the mainstream. And violence that begins in the digital world can spill over into the physical – in the form of stalking, abuse, and even femicide.
Ending this crisis demands action from us all: Governments must criminalise digital violence and strengthen support for survivors. Technology companies must ensure their platforms are safe and accountable. And communities must come together in zero tolerance for online hate.
We cannot allow digital spaces to be yet another place where women and girls are unsafe. On the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration, I call on the world to unite to end violence against women everywhere. Together, we can build a world free of fear where every woman and every girl can thrive.
Supply, ECD brawl leaves 1 dead; Police hunting 62-year-old relative
Abrawl at Supply, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara (ECD) on Monday evening has left 36-year-old Ray Sheoraj, called “Redman”, dead.
Police state that at about 23:00h, Sheoraj was at his Supply, ECD home in the company of several others when an argument broke out with a male relative who resides in the same yard. During the altercation, the suspect allegedly inflicted an injury to Sheoraj’s left leg with a sharp object. According to reports, the injured man attempted to curtail the bleeding but later collapsed in the upper flat of his home.
He was taken to the Enmore Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Detectives say that a cutlass and a chopper, suspected to have been used in the incident, were recovered at the scene.
Dead: Ray Sheoraj
However, the 62-yearold suspect fled the scene shortly after committing the act and is presently being pursued by the Police. Two men who were at the home during the brawl are in
Police custody. In addition, a female relative, who sustained a minor injury during the altercation, was treated and sent away. Investigations are ongoing.
The Brighton Village home that was robbed
Swarthwati Seecharran
The back fence the bandits broke to escape portedly escaped
9-year-old allegedly beaten to death
Suspect yet to be arrested; Police mum on update of incident
Days after nine-yearold Levon Collins of Nurney Village, Corentyne, succumbed to a severe beating allegedly at the hands of his teenage cousin, the Police have yet to make an arrest, while the family is now torn apart. This is according to the boy’s mother, Lotoya Collins, who told this publication on Tuesday that the alleged perpetrator has not yet been questioned by the Police. Levon Collins, a former pupil of Kildonan Primary School, succumbed on Saturday –almost two weeks after he received a severe beating allegedly from his 15-year-old female cousin.
The grieving mother claimed that the incident occurred a short distance from their home after her son got
off his bicycle to fix a slipped chain, but the cousin seems remorseless. The grieving mother noted that she has not reached out to the parents of her teenage niece, who she says is responsible for her son’s death.
Despite telling the Police what had happened and despite making multiple reports, Collins said she is frustrated that no one, especially the cousin, has been taken in for questioning. She insists the family deserves answers and that her son’s death cannot simply be ignored. “I have to get justice for my son,” she said, alleging too that the 15-year-old, who, according to a Police release, is a school dropout, continues to taunt the now-dead child’s cousins. On November 12,
after sustaining injuries, Levon Collins was rushed to the Port Mourant Hospital, where he was examined, given pain medication, and discharged after an X-ray was done.
However, his condition worsened four days later, prompting his mother to take him to the New Amsterdam Hospital. There, the child was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and later transferred to the children’s ward, where he appeared to be improving.
However, on November 22, the child suddenly began vomiting what appeared to be clotted blood. He died moments later. An autopsy performed on the lad by Government pathologist Dr Vivekanand Bridgemohan gave the cause of death as due to shock and haemorrhage from a ruptured spleen. However, up to news time, the Guyana Police
GT woman charged, fined for importing dogs without necessary permit
Forty-year-old Elizebath Chung, also called “Liza”, a chef from Alberttown and Alexander Village, Georgetown, was fined $20,000 for allegedly importing dogs without the necessary permit. Chung was reportedly arrested at the Bina Hill Police Checkpoint in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and then charged for im-
porting 10 dogs without the necessary permit. She appeared before Magistrate Omadatt Chandan at the
Lethem Magistrate’s Court on Monday, where she pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to her.
Driver wanted for running over pedestrian at Enmore arrested
Gresponded to requests for an update on the matter.
Caribbean exporters
to
anesh Racktoo, a minibus driver wanted by Police for questioning in connection with a hit-and-run accident that claimed the life of 43-year-old Charran Suresh one month earlier, has been arrested. On October 25, 2025, Suresh, of Newtown, Enmore, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was reportedly standing at the side of Enmore Access Road when he was allegedly struck by a minibus driven by Racktoo, who failed to stop following the collision. The injured man was picked up unconscious and taken to the Enmore Regional Hospital, where he was treated and subsequently transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). He nevertheless succumbed to his injuries. Since the accident, the Police had issued a wanted bulletin for Racktoo’s arrest. He is presently in custody pending charges.
participate in major regional business roundtable in Panama
...as
over 200 buyers from 20 countries confirmed for Business Matchmaking Forum
More than 205 international buying companies from the United States (US), Europe, Asia, and Latin America have already registered for the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean’s (CAF’s) Latin America and Caribbean Business Matchmaking Forum, titled: Connection to the Global Market. The event will be held on 29 and 30 January 2026 at the Panama Convention Centre in Panama City. Exporters from across the Caribbean are being encouraged to participate. The call for participation remains open until 22 December 2025.
This high-level commercial gathering is part of CAF’s flagship annual event, the International Economic Forum – Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC 2026), which will bring together more than 2,500 business leaders, investors, Government authorities, innovators, global experts and international development agencies to analyse the region’s economic outlook and strategic opportunities and help strengthen its position on the global geopolitical map. The confirmed buyers come from Germany, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Spain, the US, Guatemala, Honduras, Italy, Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, and the Dominican Republic. They are actively seeking suppliers across a wide range of sectors, including agrifood, textiles and apparel, chemicals, manufacturing, cos-
metics, software and technology, and construction materials.
CAF expects the forum will host more than 4,000 one-on-one meetings between buyers and 300 exporters from LAC. Each participating entrepreneur will receive between 16 and 28 pre-scheduled meetings, condensing what would usually require several weeks of travel and individual prospecting into just a day and a half. This makes the Forum an especially valuable opportunity for Caribbean businesses seeking to scale exports, access new markets, or diversify trading partners.
“This Business Roundtable is a concrete opportunity for entrepreneurs from Latin America and the Caribbean,” said Sergio Díaz-Granados, Executive President of CAF. “In addition to participating in the plenary sessions of the International Economic Forum on the challenges and opportunities of the region, companies will be able to establish commercial and business partnerships with buyers who are actively looking for products and services from our region in strategic sectors such as agribusiness, manufacturing and technology.”
By integrating the Business Roundtable into the International Economic Forum, CAF is ensuring that high-level dialogue leads to tangible business
outcomes for participants. The Forum’s agenda covers trade and investment flows, air connectivity and tourism, artificial intelligence (AI), clean energy, sustainable mining, and the energy transition, topics that are particularly relevant for the region.
Registration and participation in the Business Matchmaking Forum are free for entrepreneurs and all exporting companies that register will receive access to professional matchmaking services that align supply with demand, special discounts on airfare and hotel accommodation, and dedicated follow-up support to help advance the commercial opportunities generated during the event.
Exporting companies from across the Caribbean and Latin America can register at www.matchmaking-forum-caf.com until December 22, 2025. Space is limited.
About CAF
We are a development bank committed to supporting the countries of LAC and improving the quality of life in the region. Our actions promote sustainable development and regional integration. We serve the public and private sectors, providing multiple products and services to a broad client base of 24 member countries, private companies, and financial institutions.
The dogs were being transported in carriers
Elizebath Chung, also called “Liza”
Arrested: Ganesh Racktoo
Force (GPF) has not
Lotoya Collins
A screenshot of a video allegedly showing the altercation between the two children
Govt built macroeconomic framework to withstand shift in oil prices – Dr Singh
With global oil prices on a downward trajectory, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, has assured that Guyana’s macroeconomic framework is robust, resilient, and fully capable of absorbing fluctuations in international commodity markets.
Speaking on the side-lines of his keynote address at the Fifth British Trade Mission to Guyana, Dr Singh stressed that the country’s economic planning has long been designed with volatility in mind – particularly given Guyana’s status as a small, open economy that is increasingly dependent on primary commodities, including oil.
“We operate as part of a global trading system, and we continue to be a small, open economy. That’s the reality,” the Minister said. “Notwithstanding that we’ve been growing and we’ve been doing very well, we continue to be a small, open economy in a very
large, open and dynamic global economic and trading space.”
Dr Singh noted that commodity price fluctuations – especially in oil – are an unavoidable feature of global markets. For that reason, the Government has consistently emphasised the importance of resilience in its macroeconomic planning. “We are operating in an environment where there is and will be commodity price movements and even commodity price
volatility,” he stated.
He explained that the Administration pays close attention to international developments, dedicating entire chapters in both the annual budget speech and the mid-year report to tracking global economic conditions and their implications for Guyana. The Minister said this level of vigilance is essential in shaping policies that safeguard long-term economic stability.
Earlier this month, Guyana’s offshore oil production reached a new milestone, with daily output hitting 900,000 barrels per day (bpd) in the Stabroek Block, according to ExxonMobil Guyana Limited and its co-venturers Hess Guyana Exploration Limited and China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) Petroleum Guyana Limited.
This record output follows the full ramp-up of Yellowtail, the country’s fourth offshore development, which has achieved its initial average production capacity of 250,000 bpd. Combined with strong performances from the Liza Phase 1, Liza Phase 2, and Payara projects, the operations are now producing at record levels.
According to Dr Singh, Guyana’s macroeconomic framework has been purposefully constructed to ensure resilience to shifts in oil prices. While strong prices would naturally benefit national revenues, he emphasised that the Government has never adopted the unrealistic assump-
tion that oil will remain above US$98 or US$100 per barrel indefinitely.
“You cannot build a macroeconomic framework on the assumption that oil prices will be $100 or $98 a barrel forever, because oil prices will not always be $98 or $100 a barrel forever,” he stressed. “We’ve ensured that everything we do in terms of the structure and financing of the budget is not based on the assumption of elevated oil prices lasting indefinitely.”
Dr Singh further underscored that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has consistently distinguished itself from other political actors by prioritising responsible economic management and technical rigour in policymaking. “We are the only party that has always emphasised the importance of resilience, of responsibility, of serious, sound technical work going into building our macroeconomic frameworks,” he said. “For others, that dimension never features in the equation.”
Speed governors to be mandated on trucks due to rising road fatalities
During a recent broadcast of the weekly programme “Road Safety and You,” Chairman of the National Road Safety Council, Earl Lambert, issued a stark warning about the escalating dangers posed by speeding trucks and outlined the Government of Guyana’s plan to introduce mandatory speed governors (speed limiting devices) across the national trucking fleet. Lambert said the new Auto Control Speed Management System, widely referred to as ACSMS, represents the country’s most aggressive intervention yet to curb road fatalities involving heavy-duty trucks.
“It is the Auto Control Speed Management System known as ACSMS,” Lambert told viewers as he opened the programme, noting that the system was recently the subject of stakeholder consultations with truck owners and industry representatives. According to Lambert, truck-related crashes have consistently ranked among the country’s worst road incidents. “Truck-related ac-
cidents have emerged as a persistent road safety challenge. In 2023, 30 truck accidents were recorded. In 2024, 25 truck accidents occurred,” he said. He further noted that “over the past five years, trucks have accounted for approximately 40 per cent of all road fatalities, ranking second only to private vehicles.” Most of these deadly collisions, he said, involved “head-on collisions, jackknife accidents, and intersectional impacts, primarily caused by excessive speed on poorly maintained or high-traffic corridors.” “The data clearly establishes that speeding by large trucks is a national road safety threat requiring urgent technological and legislative reforms,” Lambert stressed.
Keeping trucks within legal speed limits
Lambert described the system as a digital, tamper-resistant method of keeping trucks within legal speed limits. At its core, the device selected, the NXS4 speed limiter, is “a GPS-
enabled programmable device that monitors, records, and controls truck speed according to preset legal threshold while maintaining full data traceability.” He explained that the ACSMS restricts acceleration automatically: “If it’s set at 80, the vehicle, no matter what you do, cannot go beyond that.”
The system incorporates real-time location monitoring, full route history, and built-in tamper detection. “GPS integration allows continuous location and speed tracking… and there will be real-time response,” he said.
“Any attempt to disable or manipulate the system triggers automatic alerts.”
Lambert emphasised that enforcement will be automated: the device will transmit data directly to the Guyana Police Force (GPF) Traffic Department. He said the integration “enhances transparency, eliminates subjectivity in enforcement, and supports the national objective of reducing fatalities through automated compliance verification.”
Guyana’s advancing road network challenges Lambert said the enforcement gap widened as the country’s highways expanded.
“Traditional police methods reliant on manual observation and speed gun detection have proven insufficient for continuous monitoring of heavy vehicles across a growing national network.”
He also revealed that many trucks originally imported with regulated speed controls had their devices disabled: “These trucks come with the device to regulate that speed. But some or the other, it has been tampered with or readjusted.”
“There’s no way you can self-regulate it,” he added, highlighting the financial incentive some drivers have to speed. “The way the trucks are operated, the drivers are paid by trips. And if they make a certain amount of trips, their earnings increase.” Lambert pointed to the harsh realities of Guyana’s road network as an aggravating factor. He noted that major corridors, including the East Bank Demerara (EBD) Highway, East Coast Demerara (ECD) Highway, and the Georgetown–Soesdyke Highway, are heavily trafficked by commercial trucks serving mining, construction and oil and gas operations.
These routes, he said, are compromised by “structural vulnerabilities such as flood-prone surfaces, uneven pavements, narrow lanes and limited nighttime visibility,” all of which “height-
en collision risk.”
The result has been “a persistent pattern of high-severity crashes involving commercial trucks on major highways”, he said.
Multi-agency efforts
Lambert detailed the multi-agency mobilisation currently underway to implement the new system. The Ministry of Home Affairs, he said, is the “lead Ministry and the policy driver,” responsible for overseeing implementation, budget, and communication. The GPF will act as the operational arm, managing “installation, verification, enforcement, data analytics and compliance audits.” The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) “will certify device standards, calibration, accuracy and approve installers and the workshops.”
Meanwhile, the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) will handle “data transmission, security, hosting and integration with the command centre.” Legislative changes are also required. Lambert noted that “Attorney General’s
(AG) Chamber drafts and gazettes the legislation amendment to chapters 51 or 2 and associated regulations.” Stakeholder consultations are ongoing, with one such session held recently “at the Police Officers Annex at Eve Leary,” where truckers raised concerns about the impact on their earnings and operations. Lambert framed the speed-governor initiative as a major step forward in Guyana’s national development. He said the ACSMS “aligns with the country’s development trajectory by ensuring that the expansion of commerce and infrastructure does not come at the expense of human life or road safety.” “As Guyana continues to expand its transportation corridors in support of national development, the implementation of this system ensures that progress does not come at the cost of safety.” Calling the initiative “a bold, necessary, and forward-looking measure,” Lambert said it aims ultimately “to secure the lives of citizens and the integrity of the nation’s roadways.”
Chairman of the Road Safety Council, Earl Lambert
T&T: Top US General meeting with PM
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
General Dan Caine met with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar at the Diplomatic Centre yesterday.General Caine arrived at the centre just before 11.30h, as he was flanked by various units of the TTPS, including the
Special Branch and the National Operations Task Force, as escorts.
Caine was expected to discuss matters relating to national security with Persad-Bissessar; however, the details of the meeting remain unknown.
(Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)
China launches rescue for stranded astronauts
China launched the Shenzhou 22 spacecraft on Tuesday to help bring back a team of astronauts after a damaged spacecraft left them temporarily stranded on China's space station.
The Shenzhou 22 will be used in 2026 by the three astronauts who docked on the Tiangong space station on November 1.
Earlier this month, another group of Chinese astronauts from the Shenzhou 20 mission faced a nine-day delay in their return to Earth after their craft's window was damaged. They eventually returned using the Shenzhou 21 spacecraft, which had
just carried the replacement crew to Tiangong.
While the three-person crew landed safely on Earth, three of their fellow astronauts on the replacement crew were temporarily left without a guaranteed way to return in case of an emergency.
The Shenzhou 20 spacecraft – the damaged one, which for now remains in space – will be brought down to Earth later and assessed, according to state broadcaster CCTV. The space programme determined it didn't meet safety standards for transporting the astronauts. (Excerpt from CBS News)
Oil falls as Ukraine signals support for framework of Russia peace deal
Oil prices fell over one per cent on Tuesday after Ukraine hinted that an intense diplomatic push by the US Administration to end Russia's war against it could be yielding fruit.
An end to the war in Ukraine could pave the way for the unwinding of Western sanctions against Moscow's energy trade, potentially adding more supply at a time when commodity prices have been battered by expectations of a glut next year.
Brent crude futures fell US$1.03, or 1.6 per cent, to US$62.34 a barrel by 13:30h. ET (1830 GMT), while US West Texas Intermediate crude futures were down 99 cents, or 1.7 per cent, at US$57.85 a barrel.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy could visit the US in the next few days to finalise a deal with US President Donald Trump to end the war, Kyiv's national security chief Rustem Umerov said.
Still, Russia stressed it would not let any deal stray too far from its objectives, which helped keep oil's losses in check as Russia's position raises doubts about whether a formal agreement will be reached, said Ed Hayden-Briffett, oil analyst at Onyx Capital Group.
The uncertainty was underscored by Russia's barrage of missiles on the Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Tuesday, which killed six persons, wounded 13, and disrupted electricity and heating systems.
"It needs two to tango, and it remains unclear if Russia agrees as well," UBS analyst Giovanni Staunovo said. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Around the World
Russian barrage on Kyiv kills 7, disrupts energy supplies
Russia launched a new barrage of drones and missiles at the Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Tuesday, officials said, killing seven persons, wounding 21, and disrupting electricity and heating systems as Ukraine raced to finalise a US-backed peace deal.
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Russian forces launched more than 460 drones and 22 missiles, their second major strike on Kyiv this month. The air force said it had downed most of the drones and around half of the missiles.
"The primary targets were the energy sector and everything that keeps normal life going," Zelenskiy said in a post on the Telegram app.
As Russia hit Kyiv in
several waves of attacks, diplomatic talks on ending the war gained some momentum.
Ukrainian, European, and US officials have held several rounds of talks in
recent days, and Ukraine on Tuesday signalled support for the framework for a peace deal while stressing that sensitive issues needed to be fixed.
Ukraine's Energy
Ministry said Russian strikes had disrupted electricity supplies to more than 102,000 persons in five Ukrainian regions.
Tymur Tkachenko, the head of the military administration for the capital, said damage was recorded at 13 sites across Kyiv. Residential and commercial buildings and infrastructure were damaged.
Kyiv city officials also said heating supplies across several districts in the capital were restricted. The weather is unseasonably warm, with temperatures hovering at about 8oC.
"The Russians are deliberately targeting civilian infrastructure and housing. Cynical terror," Tkachenko said on Telegram. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Brazil’s Supreme Court orders Jair Bolsonaro to begin prison sentence
Brazil’s Supreme Court has ordered former President Jair Bolsonaro to begin serving his 27-year prison sentence, after his defence team declined to file a second appeal.
Justice Alexandre de Moraes, a leading figure in the trial against Bolsonaro, made the announcement on Tuesday.
The court indicated Bolsonaro would begin his sentence at the Federal Police headquarters in the capital, Brasilia, where he is currently being held.
In September, Bolsonaro was convicted of plotting to stage a coup in order to retain power after his defeat in the 2022 Presidential election.
He was found guilty of
trying to subvert the democratic rule of law, attempting a coup, participating in an armed conspiracy, causing damage to public property and contributing to the deterioration of a listed national
heritage site.
He was sentenced to 27 years and three months in prison. But that sentence did not begin immediately, to allow for appeals.
Since August, Bolsonaro
has been under house arrest for fear he might attempt an escape abroad. Already, in 2024, he had spent several nights in the Hungarian embassy, stirring reports he could have been seeking diplomatic sanctuary with the Government of Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Earlier this month, Brazil’s Supreme Court rejected Bolsonaro’s appeal to overturn his prison sentence. His defence team has since petitioned for the 27year sentence to be served under house arrest on humanitarian grounds. Bolsonaro was stabbed on the campaign trail in 2018, and he continues to suffer from abdominal problems. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
Cartel de los Soles is now officially US-designated terrorist organisation
The US Government's designation of the Venezuelan Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terrorist organisation officially took effect Monday as part of President Trump's aggressive campaign to combat drug trafficking into the United States. The US identifies Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro as the group's leader – who says the claims of narcoterrorism
are actually part of a bid by Mr Trump to force him from power.
The terrorist designation, which was announced last week, is designed to put more pressure on Maduro, even as US warships and more than 10,000 American troops step up training exercises in the region. The US military has also launched deadly strikes on boats it alleges were carrying drugs off
Venezuela's coast – many of them allegedly run by the Tren de Aragua gang, which the US accuses of ties to the Maduro regime.
In a statement issued Monday, Maduro's Government said it "absolutely rejects the new and ridiculous fabrication" designating "the non-existent Cartel of the Suns as a terrorist organisation, thus repeating an infamous and
vile lie to justify an illegitimate and illegal intervention against Venezuela, under the classic US format of regime change."
Ahead of the designation announcement, Secretary of State Marco Rubio claimed the group was "responsible for terrorist violence… as well as for trafficking drugs into the United States and Europe." (Excerpt from CBS News)
Ethiopian volcano erupts for 1st time in 12,000 years
Avolcano in Ethiopia’s north-eastern region has erupted for the first time in nearly 12,000 years, sending thick plumes of smoke up to 14 kilometres (km) into the sky and across the Red Sea toward Yemen and Oman.
The Hayli Gubbi volcano, located in Ethiopia’s Afar region about 805 km northeast of Addis Ababa near the
Eritrean border, erupted on Sunday for several hours.
A local official, Mohammed Seid, said there were no casualties, but the eruption could have economic implications for the local community of livestock herders. Seid said there was no previous record of an eruption by the Hayli Gubbi volcano, and that he fears for
the livelihoods of residents.
“While no human lives and livestock have been lost so far, many villages have been covered in ash, and as a result, their animals have little to eat,” he said.
The volcano, which rises about 500 metres in altitude, sits within the Rift Valley, a zone of intense geological activity where two tectonic plates meet.
Ash clouds from the volcano drifted over Yemen, Oman, India and northern Pakistan, the VAAC said. The Afar region is prone to earthquakes, and a resident, Ahmed Abdela, said he heard a loud sound and what he described as a shock wave. “It felt like a sudden bomb had been thrown with smoke and ash,” he said.
(Excerpt from The Guardian)
The building of a supermarket warehouse after a Russian missile and drone strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine
Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine
Supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro protest outside the regional headquarters of the Brazilian Federal Police in Brasilia, where Bolsonaro is being held
Participation will open doors. Don’t hide away or keep your thoughts to yourself. You have plenty to offer, and your insight will parley into a host of tempting opportunities. Be brave and sign up or submit your resume for a position that allows you to do something you enjoy doing. Invest in yourself and your future.
Pay attention to your needs, how you present yourself, and update your skills, appeal, and resources to suit your needs. An overhaul will give you a boost that points you in a new and exciting direction. Refuse to let emotional manipulation from those less eager to accept change hold you back. Lead the way with passion.
Investigate educational pursuits, travel destinations, and honing and revamping your skills to fit a job prospect or something you want to pursue. Refuse to let lame excuses slow you down, or someone who wants to manipulate what you do, stand in your way. Take charge, head in the direction that stimulates your mind and calls your name.
Check the job market, set up interviews, and tweak your resume. Attend reunions or events that bring you in contact with informative individuals who can enlighten you about subjects and prospects you have little knowledge of. It’s a great day to learn and to strive for something new and exciting. Love and self-improvement are on the rise.
Let caution lead the way. If you act in haste or let spontaneity win over common sense, you’ll pay the price. Focus your energy on personal challenges, physical activities, and cultivating meaningful relationships. Choose growth, learning, and striving to be your best over emotional drama. Let go of what’s no longer working for you.
Communication will spare you grief. Ask direct questions and make informed decisions based on facts. A change of environment will encourage you to visualize the possibilities and point you in a direction that offers hope for a brighter future. Personal improvements and growth will lead to unexpected gains and commitment. Romance is favored.
Get out, mingle, challenge yourself, and make personal growth your mission. Striving for perfection and interacting with people who challenge your thinking will motivate you to go above and beyond your initial plans. However, don’t lose sight of your budget, as you may find yourself over your head. A lifestyle change or home improvement is favored.
Refuse to labor over things you have no control. Set aside your emotions, look inward, and discover what truly brings you happiness. It’s time to open a new door that allows you the freedom to follow your heart and explore new territory. Expand your mind, strengthen your body, and revitalize your dreams, hopes, and wishes.
Pay attention to your overhead, and you’ll find a way to cut corners. Explore community programs or better interest rates and consider refinancing to fit your budget. Dealing with institutions and government agencies can lead to valuable insights and results that put your mind at ease. Consult with experts and be receptive to their suggestions.
Diversions are necessary to personal growth and choosing what’s best for you. Participating in events or activities that spark your imagination will also encourage you to make new acquaintances and broaden your interests. A warm and passionate approach to expressing yourself will attract someone of interest. A partnership looks promising; don’t miss out – engage.
Apply your energy to honing your skills, or doing the best job possible. How you exploit your talents today will pay off handsomely. Refuse to let outside issues cloud your vision or someone else’s drama eat up your time. Put your discipline to work for you, focus on your pursuits, and prioritize your reputation and financial gains.
Distance yourself from shared expenses and joint ventures. Use your intuitive intelligence to navigate your way forward and to promote financial gain, choice decisions, and a better life. You have plenty to gain if you refuse to let others undermine you or take over. When opportunity knocks, it’s up to you to lead the way.
ARCHIE
Jansen, Harmer take South Africa closer to 2-0 sweep of India
South Africa ensured their first series win in India in 25 years by building on their lead for nearly five hours. While the declaration, setting India more than they have ever been set at home, seemed a touch conservative, the vis-
ting him out on the cut shot. Simon Harmer, who has out-bowled the home spinners, continued his dream series with a dream off break to bowl KL Rahul through the gate and came desperately close to getting B Sai Sudharsan out lbw.
done at any point before. Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar got long spells in. Jadeja got Ryan Rickelton caught at extra cover, but then India did what they have struggled to do all Test: get wickets on defensive shots. Jadeja beat Aiden
itors went to stumps needing eight wickets on the final day to take away all 12 World Test Championship (WTC) points from this Test and consign India to their second whitewash at home in 12 months after 12 years of a spotless series record. As it often happens in such match situations, the same pitch that South Africa batted on, looking untroubled for 70.3 overs, began to look unplayable in the 15.5 India got to play. Marco Jansen didn't even bother with swing and seam and began to bounce Yashasvi Jaiswal before get-
The day began with curiosity around how much South Africa valued the 12 full points from this match vis-a-vis ensuring they give India no chance to threaten their series lead. Turns out they were in no mood for adventure. Especially as the ball started to turn more consistently in the first session of the fourth day than it had
Markram's outside edge and hit the off stump;
Washington got one to bite at Temba Bavuma's glove and settle in the hands of backward short leg.
As three wickets fell for 18 runs, South Africa remained slightly cautious. Tristan Stubbs and Tony de Zorzi, though, managed to keep the threat of spin out with their sweeps and reverse sweeps. After Rishabh Pant missed a stumping off Stubbs, the number three batter limited his options to just the sweeps whenever he wanted to force the pace.
Tubbs and de Zorzi added 101 for the fourth wicket, 41 of those in sweeps and re-
not coming from the openers. India have done this to many a visiting side – just when everybody thought they had been too conservative with the declaration, the pitch would magically change its nature and wickets would start falling.
Something similar happened when Jansen ran in and started bowling short. In the first over itself, he had Jaiswal fending uncomfortably. One didn't pop up; the other landed just short of the second slip. While Jaiswal managed to ramp him once, he fell to his favourite cut shot again. Since Jaiswal's de-
30 balls, but the 30th was a bewitching, dipping, drifting delivery, which had him playing well away from where he thought it would originally pitch. In panic, he turned his drive into a flick, but it wasn't enough to plug the gap created between his body and his bat. Harmer was again level with Jansen for most wickets in the series: 12. Harmer came extremely close to taking the lead when he appealed for lbw against Sai Sudharsan. In all likelihood, the on-field call for notout was down to an inside edge, but the replay showed the ball had hit the pad first.
verse sweeps. Like Stubbs in the first innings, de Zorzi fell one short of a fifty, beaten on the sweep for a change. It was mid-afternoon, and South Africa led by 466, but they still continued to bat at a normal pace.
Only after the lunch break did Stubbs get a move on to try to complete a Test hundred, but even this charge was not frenetic. The team management gave him all the time as he scored 32 from the last 19 balls he faced, taking the lead past the 542 that Australia attained in Nagpur in 2004. He slog-swept Jadeja to go from 88 to 94, but Jadeja slowed the ball down to beat a repeat attempt. Stubbs still was the highest run-getter in the series (163), and would need a big effort from someone in the final innings to be eclipsed. That effort was
but, nobody has scored more Test runs with the cut-off fast bowlers than his 291, but no one has got out as often as his seven times. Nobody has played as many false shots as he has on the cut to the fast bowler: 68. He averages 41.57 on the cut against fast bowlers but has fallen to this shot four times in his last eight innings.
Rahul was more traditional in the route he took to fight for a draw. He scored just 6 off
However, the ball tracking returned an umpire's call on impact, saving Sai Sudharsan to fight another day. India somehow survived the rest of the day, but it looked like a wicket could fall anytime. South Africa now has six hours to take eight wickets because the light has consistently dipped by 16:00h, not allowing any extra play. (ESPNcricinfo)
South Africa in command
KL Rahul is clean bowled Tristan Stubbs celebrates after scoring a half-century
Lady Jags to begin W Qualifiers at home
Gwill be played on Tuesday, December 2. The CONCACAF W Qualifiers matches will be played across the three FIFA Women’s International Match Windows running from November 2025 through April 2026 and serve as the preliminary stage of the 2026 CONCACAF W Championship.
The competition will feature 29 Member Associations – excluding the region’s two highest-ranked nations (the United States and Canada). At the conclusion of the CONCACAF W Qualifiers, the six group winners will join the United States and Canada in next year’s eight-team CONCACAF W Championship.
BV Interblock
uyana’s senior women’s national football team, the Lady Jaguars, will begin their Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football Women’s (CONCACAF W) Qualifiers campaign at home, when they take on Nicaragua at the National Track and Field Centre (NTFC), West Coast Demerara (WCD) on Monday. Guyana are in Group B of the qualifiers alongside Jamaica, Nicaragua, Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda.
The CONCACAF W Championship will serve as the Confederation’s qual ifier for both the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil and the 2028 LA Summer Olympics and will be the first of three major centralised tournaments in the Confederation’s revamped women’s national team cal endar, unveiled in September 2024.
The CONCACAF Qualifiers will kick off on Thursday, November 27, and the final matches of the window
Currently, the Lady Jaguars are encamped with Head Coach Omar Khan and other technical staff ahead of Monday’s home fixture. The clash with Nicaragua will kick off at 20:00h local time.
BCB/Ivan Madray 1st Division T20 Tournament…
TPromotions and DJ
Masterful Sinclair spins RHT NAMILCO Thunderbolt to semi-finals
The strong Rose Hall Town NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour squad on Saturday last held their nerve to defeat a determined Rose Hall Canje team by 24 runs at the Area H ground. The youthful visiting team, at one stage of the second-round match, seemed on the verge of a major upset, but the home team called on their experience to advance to the semi-finals after drawing a bye in the first round.
Rose Hall Town skipper Clinton Pestano won the toss and elected to bat first in bright sunshine. Openers Kevin Sinclair (20) and Javed Karim (16) added 33
for the first wicket before medium pacer Sanjay Algoo broke the partnership in the fourth over. Solid batting from Pestano (30), Romesh Bharrat (15) and Aeon Hooper (24) led the home team to 143 for 8 off their allotted 20 overs. Algoo ended with three wickets for 34 runs, and impressive pacer Devon Warthon took 2 for 16 (4 overs), while Romario Ramdehol took 1 for 30 from his four overs.
Needing to score 144 from 20 overs, the visitors were well placed at 90 for 1 in the 14th over, with the ultra-aggressive Altar Balman and Ramdehol in full blow. Earlier, off-spin-
ner Kevin Sinclair had bowled Algoo for nine and then came back to break the second-wicket partner ship by having Ramdehol brilliantly caught by Keon Sinclair for 23 in the 15th over.
Rose Hall Canje's in nings then fell apart as the experienced pair of Kevin Sinclair and Jonathan Rampersaud bowled well to restrict them to 119 for 8 when the 20 overs were completed.
Balman top-scored with a brilliant 58 with five delightful fours and two massive sixes, but received no support from Adrian Hetmyer (one), Isai Thorne
Rampersaud continued his productive form with the ball with 2 for 21. Clinton Pestano took 1 for 24.
The Rose Hall Town NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour team will play arch-rivals Albion Community Centre Cricket Club in the semi-finals, while Young Warriors will clash with the Tucber Park Cricket Club in the second semi-final.
Darry hosted their BV Interblock Futsal Tournament that delivered an exciting night of action, with both Under-17 and senior teams battling fiercely for dominance ahead of this Friday’s quarter-finals at the Beterverwagting Tarmac.
U17 Division: Ogle Street and Sideline Shine
In Game One, Ogle Street U17 secured a confident 2-0 victory over Gulf U17, thanks to a sharp brace from Malik Sobers, who controlled the offence with precision and composure.
Game Two saw Sideline U17 overpower Gulf U17 by a 3-1 margin. Brian Smith led the charge with two goals, while Mark Tmar Glasgow added another to seal the win. Gulf’s lone reply came from Keshawn Dennis, who found the net with a well-taken effort but couldn’t spark a comeback.
Senior Division: Ogle Street A and Sideline B secure wins
In the senior bracket, Ogle Street A claimed a solid 2-0 win over Frontside A, with veteran striker Gary Nedd delivering both goals in a standout performance.
Sideline B also celebrated victory, edging Gulf B 2-1. Shondell Antoine proved unstoppable, scoring twice to give Sideline B the advantage they needed. Despite Gulf B’s efforts, they were unable to overturn the deficit.
Quarter-final fixtures set for Friday
The tournament now moves into its highstakes knockout stage
sumes Friday night at the Beterverwagting Tarmac. Fans can expect more intensity and skill as U17 teams compete for semi-final spots. With momentum building and rivalries heating up, Friday’s clashes promise to deliver another electric night of futsal in Beterverwagting.
Quarter-final match-ups
Ogle Street A v Gulf B
Ogle Street B v All Stars
Sideline B v Frontside A
Sideline A v BV Police
Gary Nedd
Brian Smith (left) and Mark Glasgow
The winning RHT NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour squad
The Lady Jags are currently encamped ahead of Monday’s fixture
20th Diamond hockey tournament bullies off this Thursday
Indoor hockey action will return to the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) this Thursday, November 27th, when the 20th edition of the Diamond Mineral Water Indoor Hockey Festival bullies off.
The 2025 edition of the tournament will run until Sunday, November 30, with teams competing in the Men’s and Women’s Open, Veterans Over 40 and Veterans Over 50 categories.
During the tournament’s launch on Tuesday at the Homestretch Avenue venue, Guyana Hockey Board (GHB) Vice President (VP) Tricia Fiedtkou reflected on the tournament’s origins while divulging the reason
for the veterans categories.
“This festival was born out of the idea of Mr Joseph "Reds" Perriera back in 2004 to have a re gional tour nament that could see clubs, instead of nation al teams, have a chance to compete together, and at the same time, it was and is high ly attractive be cause teams also have the chance to win
monetary prizes along with the impressive trophies being presented,” Fiedtkou recalled.
The GHB VP went on to inform, “The introduction of two veterans divisions is mainly because the World Cup indoor hockey tournament is being held in Nottingham, UK, in March 2026, and Guyana is expecting to field teams in several age groups, including one from the women.”
Speaking on behalf of the tournament’s long-time title sponsor, Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), Brand Executive Raveena Mangal noted that the tournament is a staple on the company’s calendar.
Mangal shared, “Demerara Distillers Limited, together with the Diamond Mineral Water brand, is very pleased to, once again, support this tournament, now in its very impressive 20th year. Each year, we look forward to the Diamond Mineral Water International indoor hockey
nual calendar, and its competitive spirit continues to elevate the sport.”
“Diamond Mineral Water is proud to play a role in the advancement of sports nationwide, and we remain committed to promoting sports as a healthy, positive form of entertainment for our communities,” she added.
Also joining the party are ANSA McAL, through their Tropical Rhythm brand, whose brand manager, Triston Freeman, shared why the company continues to support the event.
“On behalf of ANSA McAL and the Tropical Rhythm brand, we are very excited to be a part of this tournament again. Over the last decade, we have thrown our support behind the Hockey Board and the sport in general. Through ANSA McAL, we’ve always been supporting sports initiatives and programmes, and we’re very interested and happy to be a part of this tournament,” Freeman
Nandu learning from senior men as 2nd youngest Captain in Super50 history
At 22 years old, Matthew Nandu is the second youngest Captain in West Indies Super50 history, after the great Brian Lara.
The Guyana Harpy Eagles leader has had a quiet season thus far, with rain affecting most of the games played in Trinidad and Tobago during this tournament.
Despite the unfavourable results, on most occasions, Nandu has shown solid leadership skills. He credited the senior men around him in the Guyana Harpy Eagles set-up.
When asked how difficult it is being the second youngest Captain in Super50 history, Nandu said, “I would not say it is difficult. I have had the support from the senior men, and I am grateful for that. So, I am trying to learn as much as I can moving forward.”
Reflecting on the crunch match against
Trinidad and Tobago, Nandu said Guyana did not get the ideal start with the bat. He credited Gudakesh Motie and Keemo Paul for their late assault with the bat.
“We did not get the start with the batting. But I must commend Motie and Keemo for giving us a good total. We felt we could have restricted them once things went our way with the bowling,” Nandu added.
Meanwhile, the confident young man, who scored a 54 on his captaincy debut last week, said he always backed his bowlers, but the inclement weather could have upset their rhythm.
“We backed our bowlers 100 per cent to get the job done for us, but the rain came down. It is important to stay together as a unit. After a loss it is easy for men to drift away. But we have to be together as a group and be strong,” the Guyana skipper explained. (Brandon Corlette)
The teams in the Diamond Mineral Water tournament will be competing for US$10,000 in cash and prizes. The tournament will feature overseas teams such as the Trinidad and
Sammy backs mindset and execution as Windies target Test turnaround
Coming off a difficult white-ball tour where the West Indies fell 3-0 in the One-Day International (ODI) series and 3-1 in the T20Is, Head Coach Daren Sammy remains upbeat as his squad turns its attention to the Test arena. Speaking ahead of the opening Test on December 1 at 18:00h, Sammy stressed that – despite the recent results – the mentality within the camp is strong and the team are fully focused on execution.
“We might not have the numbers behind us coming to New Zealand, but the mindset we have here and what we’re trying to create is good, and it boils down to execution,” Sammy said. “From my playing days to my captaincy days, the word has always been ‘execution’. If you execute well here in New Zealand, you can compete.”
Sammy believes the limited-overs results did not fully reflect the competitiveness of his side.
“One thing we've shown over here: we challenge them. In the T20 series, in the ODI series, I don’t think the results reflected how we played. Now it’s the Test series – being able to survive and challenge the new ball with both bat and ball and
being able to make better decisions under pressure. These are the things we talk about. We have our KPIs [Key Performance Indicators] in the Test arena, and the mentality I’ve seen at practice has been brilliant.”
The West Indies have not won a Test series in New Zealand for decades, but Sammy insists the mission remains unchanged.
“We come here to win,” he stated. “To win, you must compete – and winning has characteristics you need to have. Good performances from everyone, understanding the threat New Zealand
poses at home. There’s a reason we haven’t won here for a long time, but it’s not impossible. That’s the mission; that’s the word I’m going to drive with the men.”
For Sammy, the formula is clear: “Preparation, backed by attitude and mentality, could create performance. And that’s what we’re trying to do.”
As the West Indies prepare for the first ball on Monday evening, the team will hope that a renewed mindset, sharpened execution, and a hunger to make history can turn potential into performance.
Tobago Police men’s and women’s teams, as well as TTO Masters.
GHB Vice President Tricia Fiedtkou
DDL Brand Executive Raveena Mangal
Daren Sammy remains upbeat about the West Indies’ chances as they shift to the red-ball format in New Zealand
