‘Completely false’
President Ali rubbishes claim that Terrence Campbell was asked to be Prime Ministerial Candidate
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has shut down the purported claim by businessman Terrence Campbell that he was asked to be the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) prime ministerial candidate.
In a Facebook post on Friday, the President wrote: “I have noted a post by Terrence Campbell in which he claimed that I approached him to be my prime ministerial candidate for the 2020 General and Regional Elections. This is completely false. I never approached Terrence Campbell to be a prime ministerial candidate for me or the People’s Progressive Party/Civic.
“We have had many
discussions on political matters in the past. During our time in opposition, I stated to him and others that the PPP/C is the only national party and that our policies are pro-people and pro-Guyana. At no time did I make an offer for him to be a prime ministerial candidate.”
Dr. Ali then defended Vice President and PPP General Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo, against Campbell’s claims.
President Alit wrote:
“The Vice President and General Secretary does not attack anyone; he responds factually and politically to statements and issues. It seems that there is a belief among some in the country that they can attack the PPP and its
leadership without expecting a response.”
Notably, PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo has consistently reiterated that the government’s ambitious stewardship of Guyana will not be dulled by critics.
Since 2020, the government has placed heavy emphasis on enhancing public infrastructure, healthcare, and education in order to give all Guyanese access to tertiary education and work prospects.
Key accomplishments include: Employment for 50,000 to 60,000 previously jobless individuals; an increase in disposable income in the public sector by $90 billion; delivery of over 33,000 house lots;
provision of government scholarships to 50,000 persons; doubling of the old-age pension; restoration and expansion of the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant for all school children; restoration of the Joint Services bonus; reversal of over 200 taxes and fees; implementation of a comprehensive infrastructure plan, including 140 kilometres of four-lane roads and over 400 bridges; stimulating non-oil investments and removing taxes on private healthcare and education; rolling out a transformative healthcare plan with 12 new hospitals and advancing the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030.
President, Dr. Irfaan Ali
Guyana’s economy not ‘wedded’ to oil and gas
–– PresidentAli says, points to vast opportunities in tourism, agriculture
By Naomi Parris
DESPITE Guyana’s aspirations to become a significant energy producer, President Irfaan Ali has stated that the nation’s economy is not exclusively reliant on its oil and gas sector.
The Head of State, during a media engagement earlier this week, stated that though Guyana is looking to bring key energy industry players together, there are vaster opportunities.
“Our country is not wedded to oil and gas. We have many other opportunities outside oil and gas. The energy equation, of course, is important, because we are looking to be a major player in energy within the region itself. New opportunities are coming with gas,” the head of state said.
He pointed out that the country is focused on creating new opportunities and partnerships.
In the next few days, the country will host its 4th edition of its energy conference and supply chain expo.
“You’ll have an opportunity to meet with local businesses, creating new partnerships and expanding your own horizons here in Guyana. So we’re looking forward to bringing the region together, bringing the world together here in Guyana, as we seek to continue expansion of the energy sector and the billing out of the diversified economy here in Guyana.”
Guyana’s economy is expected to continue its unprecedented growth
this year, with a projected economic expansion of 10.6 percent.
That was revealed during the presentation of the country’s national budget last month.
An economic outlook of the country’s growth, credited the massive expansion to the country’s peak oil production from the Liza Destiny floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) in 2024, and the commencement of the ‘One Guyana FPSO’ in late 2025 and continued expansive growth in the nonoil economy.
This expansion will solidify the nation’s position as the third fastest growing economy in the world.
The non-oil economy is expected to grow by
13.8 percent, as significant investments are made to diversify the economy.
The agriculture, forestry, and fishing sectors are anticipated to expand by 11.4 percent in 2025, with production increases across all subsectors.
In the sugar industry, growth of 115.4 percent is expected, with production targeting 101,000 metric tonnes.
This growth will be supported by efforts in mechanisation and conversion, as well as value-added production. Additionally, rice production is forecasted to expand by 12.4 percent, reaching 804,000 tonnes through expanded acreage and improved crop varieties developed through research and development.
The other crop
sub-sectors are projected to grow by 11.7 percent, driven by expanded acreage and the country’s focus on strengthening local food security. Livestock production is also expected to grow by 7.5 percent across all categories.
The fishing industry will continue its upward trajectory, with a 5.8 percent growth driven by increased investments in aquaculture. The forestry sector is projected to grow by 1.3 percent, with a production target of 419,000 cubic metres.
In the extractive industries, mining and quarrying are expected to grow by 10 percent. Oil and gas production from the three existing FPSOs, along with the ‘One Guyana FPSO’, is expected to reach 786,000 barrels per
day by the fourth quarter of 2025, contributing to a 9.5 percent projected growth for the sector.
Gold mining is expected to grow by 17.2 percent, with production anticipated to reach 501,000 ounces due to increased output from both large-scale and small- to medium-scale miners.
Bauxite mining is projected to grow significantly by 70.1 percent, driven by increased production, particularly at the Linden mine, where output is expected to rise by 167.3 percent to 4.4 million metric tonnes.
Other mining and quarrying sectors are forecasted to grow by 39.7 percent, reflecting significant investments in public and private infrastructure projects.
The manufacturing
sector is expected to grow by 30 percent, fuelled by expansions in sugar, rice, and other manufacturing subsectors. The construction sector is projected to grow by 24.8 percent, while the services sector anticipates growth of 8 percent, with notable expansions in wholesale and retail trade, administrative and support services, information and communication, and transport and storage. These sectors are expected to increase by 8.7 percent, 9.8 percent, 5.8 percent, and 9.3 percent, respectively.
During a previous broadcast, Dr. Ali emphasised that continuous efforts are being made to ensure the non-oil economy continues to thrive, avoiding stagnation through targeted investments aimed at fostering growth and significant improvements.
The government, he pointed out, has skillfully navigated potential economic pitfalls, such as the Dutch Disease—a phenomenon where a rapid increase in revenue from natural resources, like oil or gas, negatively impacts other sectors of the economy, particularly manufacturing and agriculture.
Further elaborating on the success of the non-oil economy, Dr. Ali shared that Guyana’s agricultural sector has grown by 17 percent, the services sector by 28 percent, and the construction sector by an impressive 138 percent. Additionally, mining and other sectors have flourished, experiencing a staggering 153 percent growth over the past four years.
An aerial view of Guyana in the night (Photo credit: Troy A. Parboo)
Norton defends Lowenfield’s dumping of 115,000 votes
PEOPLE’S National Congress Reform (PNCR)
Leader, Aubrey Norton has defended the report by former Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield, in which he had dumped over 115,000 votes in the 2020 General and Regional Elections without valid reasons.
He made this chilling declaration during a press conference on Friday at Congress Place, Sophia.
“In large measure, I agree unapologetically with the pronouncements of Lowenfield at the time,” he said.
The national vote recount showed a victory for the People’s Progressive Party.
On June 23,2020, the former CEO defied the instructions of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Chairperson, Justice (ret’d) Claudette Singh to formulate a report “using the results of the recount” votes.
Lowenfield’s actions shocked both the regional and international realms since Guyana’s electoral
PNCR Leader, Aubrey Norton
laws states that the CEO is at all times subject to the control of the GECOM and more specifically, Section 18 of the Elections Law (Amendment) Act of 2000 specifically states that “notwithstanding anything in any written law” the officer remains subject to the “direction and control of the Commission.”
Based on official recount data, Lowenfield certified that 460,352 votes were valid in his initial report. He lowered that amount to 344, 508.
That is a 115, 844 difference, which led many to ask how did he arrive at such figures.
Despite mounting criticisms, it was widely reported that Former President David Granger endorsed Lowenfield’s report.
It is important to understand that the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the events of the 2020 General and Regional Elections found that there was collusion and collaboration between senior GECOM officials to divert votes to the APNU +AFC instead of safeguarding and preserving the integrity of the electoral system.
Chairman Stanley John and commissioners — former Chancellor, Carl Singh and Senior Counsel Godfrey Smith made these findings based on evidence from the many witnesses who testified along with the reports of the international observers.
“…our inquiry reveals that there were, in fact, shockingly brazen attempts by Chief Election Officer
(CEO) Keith Lowenfield, Deputy Chief Election Officer (DCEO)Roxanne Myers and Returning Officer (RO) Clairmont Mingo to derail and corrupt the statutorily prescribed procedure for the counting, ascertaining and tabulation of votes of the March 2nd election, as well as the true declaration of the results of that election, and that they did so – to put it in unvarnished language of the ordinary man – for the purpose of stealing the election,” the commissioners said in their report.
The report found that Lowenfield blatantly made decisions and employed procedures in direct contradiction to the law and the will of the people. The findings revealed too that GECOM staffers ignored specific instructions from the court, used materials that were illegal and or manipulated, and sided with APNU+AFC agents to berate observers whenever objections were raised.
After careful scrutiny, the COI commissioners concluded that there was a conscious and deliberate – even brazen –effort to violate the provisions of section 84(1) of the Representation of the People Act (RoPA)
In so doing, certain “senior GECOM officials” abandoned all need for neutrality and impartiality, and demonstrated a bias for the APNU+AFC and, in the course of events over those days, showed an “open connection” with that party, and by their efforts sought a desired result for the coalition.
As such, the commissioners said that after consideration and analysis of the evidence, Lowenfield, Mingo and Myers “were principally responsible for clear and deliberate attempts to frustrate, obstruct and subvert the ascertainment of votes in electoral district No. 4.”
Against this backdrop, the COI found that the trio undoubtedly made a prema-
ture and unlawful declaration of falsified results which showed the APNU+AFC was the winner of electoral district No. 4.
Guyanese, after casting their votes on March 2, 2020, had to endure a five-month wait for the results of the elections, as they witnessed alleged unlawful acts and a slew of legal challenges.
During this time, the patience of the electorate was tested, as electors observed what were described as attempts by the then APNU+AFC administration to rip the democratic fabric of the nation with “delay tactics” which were openly criticised by Caribbean leaders and international observers.
It was only after the legal challenges and international intervention that a national recount of all votes cast was convened and the figures showed that the PPP/C had received 233,336 votes, while the APNU+AFC coalition got 217,920 votes.
NIS, GCCI discuss challenges affecting business community
THE National Insurance Scheme (NIS) and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) engaged in discussions on February 6, 2025, to address ongoing challenges faced by the business community in accessing NIS services.
The meeting, which was led by NIS General Manager, Ms. Holly Greaves and members of the GCCI Council, focused on key concerns affecting businesses.
Among the issues raised were delays in the timely disbursement of benefits, prolonged processing times for compliance certificates and claims, as well as gaps in communication between businesses and the NIS. The Chamber presented a detailed report outlining the challenges experienced by its membership,
emphasising the need for improved efficiency and responsiveness in service delivery.
The NIS team acknowledged the concerns highlighted and committed to taking the necessary steps to address them. Additionally, both parties agreed on the importance of raising awareness among businesses regarding NIS procedures to enhance compliance and streamline interactions with the agency.
To ensure continued progress, NIS and GCCI committed to a follow-up meeting by the end of the first quarter of 2025.
This ongoing collaboration aims to foster a more efficient system that supports the needs of the business community while strengthening the partnership between NIS and key stakeholders.
Key business concerns were the focus of a meeting led by NIS General Manager, Ms. Holly Greaves and the GCCI
A Recipe for Economic Disaster
THE recent promises of the opposition have further highlighted that it is, as a matter of fact, a classic case of fiscal irresponsibility and political desperation.
People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo was rather quick to brand them for what these were: “pure nonsense”.
The opposition’s tactic seems to be little more than a thinly veiled attempt to rewrite their own sordid history, with the added agenda of co-opting and inflating the initiatives of the current government.
What is worse, this approach does not only insult the intelligence of Guyanese voters but demonstrates a dangerous lack of economic understanding.
For example, consider the opposition’s pledge to raise public sector wages by 35 per cent. This single pledge
would be amazingly expensive: $517 billion, more than the total allocation of oil revenue in Budget 2025. Economically, it would be disastrous, risking runaway inflation and fiscal instability. This is populist rhetoric at its worst, completely divorced from economic reality.
Equally disturbing are the contradictions in the opposition: on one hand, they accuse the government of having badly managed oil revenues; on the other, they promise plans that contemplate a doubling in spending from the same source. This inconsistency shows an absolute lack of coherent economic policy and the readiness to say anything, no matter how unrealistic, in order to win votes.
What is most disturbing, though, is the seeming consideration by the oppo-
sition for Guyana’s economic position. Whereas the PPP/C government is offering policies within the framework of economic realities for the long term, it seems content for the opposition to promise anything and everything, never taking into consideration their feasibility or possible long-term ramifications.
“Any fool, a clown, a donkey could say I’ll do ten times more,” Jagdeo says aptly himself.
The opposition’s lamentation and efforts to rebrand themselves as “people-centered” ring hollow when juxtaposed with their historical record. From banning basic food items to the institution of over 350 new taxes between 2015 and 2020, their record has consistently demonstrated a disregard for the welfare of ordinary Guyanese.
On the other hand, the government
of the PPP/C has been committed to sustainable development and gradual improvement in the standard of living.
A recent agreement with the Guyana Teachers’ Union, which saw teachers getting a 10 per cent increase in salary, is a prime example of responsible governance.
Guyana is at a point in time when it is navigating the newly acquired oil wealth, and this requires leadership that can balance this fine line between immediate benefits and long-term sustainability.
Reckless promises and fiscal irresponsibility only go to underline that they are unfit for this important task. Guyanese voters will be well advised to see these promises for what they are: a desperate attempt to regain power at any cost.
Guyana successfully extradites fugitive to Canada in landmark case
IN a historic move underscoring the growing international co-operation between Guyana and Canada, the Government of Guyana has successfully extradited fugitive Harry Narine Rajkumar to Canada, marking a milestone in bilateral law enforcement efforts against transnational crime.
On Thursday, February 6, 2025, Rajkumar was extradited to Canada, where he faces multiple criminal charges. This marks the first successful extradition between the two nations,
reinforcing their shared commitment to upholding justice beyond borders.
Rajkumar had been wanted by Canadian authorities since May 2019 after fleeing from law enforcement. His arrest in Guyana followed an INTERPOL Red Notice, which enabled the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to track his movements. After evading capture for several years, Rajkumar was finally apprehended, committed to prison, and subsequently waived his right to an extradition hearing. He consented to return to
Harry Narine Rajkumar
Canada to face charges, which include: Attempted Murder in violation of the Canadian Criminal Code; and Aggravated Assault in violation of the Canadian Criminal Code (Ottawa jurisdiction).
Upon his arrest, Canadian authorities swiftly submitted an extradition request, which was processed through Guyana’s legal framework. The case was presented before Acting Chief Magistrate, Faith McGusty, where Rajkumar formally agreed to his extradition.
The successful extra -
dition was made possible through a collaborative effort involving multiple agencies. The prosecution team was led by Ms. Lisa Cave, Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions at the Director of Public Prosecutions Chambers, along with Ms. Ormella Gladstone, Treaty Officer at the Ministry of Home Affairs, and Sergeant Stephan Hinds from the Major Crimes Unit, supported by other law enforcement officers.
This milestone underscores Guyana’s unwavering commitment to inter-
national law enforcement co-operation and its dedication to ensuring that justice prevails, irrespective of geographic boundaries. It also sets a precedent for future collaborations between Guyana and Canada in addressing cross-border criminal matters. With this successful extradition, Guyana reaffirms its stance as a key player in the global fight against transnational crime, strengthening its diplomatic and judicial ties with international partners in the pursuit of justice.
I wanted to fly; she made me feel like I could
TODAY marks 46 years since I married my girlfriend, Janet Mohamed.
We were both from Wortmanville - she from Bent Street, I from Hadfield Street. After 11 years of togetherness, we brought forward a child, Kavita Farah. Genetics do funny things to your children. Kavita excelled in CXC science subjects, went to UG to do chemistry, the area her mother graduated from.
Kavita completed a degree in chemistry at UG but suddenly said to me and her mother that she wants to switch to an area her father dealt in – journalism. She now has graduate training in international journalism. It has been a long journey with Janet Kissoon. I normally do a column on her whenever our anniversary comes around. I am going to miss writing on our anniversary when I hang up my gloves; that is soon coming.
I don’t know when I will stop writing but I know I want to. I will stop the Freddie Kissoon Show if Irfaan Ali is re-elected in November and shortly after the second term of Ali, I may “call it George” with my columns. I want to spend more time with my wife. I owe my wife that. I courted her when I was adventurously swinging with the Working People’s Alliance and hardly had time for her. And it has been like that for 46 years.
As you get older, you reflect on your life and the love you give and the love you receive. I have had a meaningful existence because I had Janet at my side. My father and
mother died without seeing a penny from me. It is a miserable, psychic burden I bear each day of my life, but the physic stress has been sublimated in my relationship with my wife.
An academic colleague of mine from UG, who I see from time to time, once said something to me which I always reflect on and that reflection situates Janet perfectly in the scheme of things. He told me that one day, when I look over my shoulder, I will not see my army. He was deadly accurate. But each time, the fruits recede from my Prometheus life, Janet has been there to give me an alternative existence.
I leave my readers with my songs, which I dedicate to Janet. I think ‘Lady in My life” by Michael Jackson is an appropriate tribute to my wife, but I prefer the version by Rhythm and Blues singer, Lou Rawls. That song was not Michael Jackson thing. He was a rock and pop artist and didn’t do justice to a song outside his genre.
The Air Supply hit, “Always” is about me and my wife forever being in love. I hope you like both songs.
ALWAYS BY AIR SUPPLY
I can see hills touch the sky Heaven and earth, you and I A world we will always be Here in the silence we lie Shadows we cast, you and I Speak for eternity Pressed between pages Flowers will die Stories may end as time passes by You and I will always be With every word that I hear Whenever whispers
are near I can believe in fate Promises made, only one Yesterday fades from the sun And falls to a new embrace Tears overflow As rivers run dry Here in a moment of time passing by You and I will always be
THE LADY IN MY LIFE- MICHAEL JACKSON
There’ll be no darkness tonight Lady, our love will shine, lighting the light Just put your trust in my heart And meet me in paradise, now is the time Girl, you’re every wonder in this world to me A treasure time won’t steal away So listen to my heart Lay your body close to mine Let me fill you with my dreams I can make you feel all right And, baby, through the years Gonna love you more each day So I promise you tonight That you will always be the lady in my life Lay back
From 9,000 to 10,000:
in my tenderness Let’s make this a night we won’t forget Girl, I need your sweet caress Reach out to a fantasy Two hearts in the beat of ecstasy Come to me, girl And I will keep you warm Through the shadows of the night Let me touch you with my love I can make you feel so right And, baby, through the years Even when we’re old and gray I will love you more each day Cause you will always be the lady in my life
Columnist note: The title of this article is taken from Neil Diamond’s hit, “Shilo.” Diamond remains my wife’s favourite English language singer.
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.
Guyanese passport applications surge in New York
THE Consul General of Guyana in New York, Ambassador Michael Brotherson, has reaffirmed the Consulate’s commitment to serving the Guyanese diaspora, ensuring that citizens have access to essential services while fostering strong international relations.
Speaking on the Consulate’s role, Ambassador Brotherson emphasised that it represents Guyana’s interests across economic, cultural, and social development spheres, with a primary focus on the well-being of Guyanese residing in North America.
“So, we provide a myriad of services—mandalas, passports,” Brotherson explained. “Many of our Guyanese hold dual citizenship, so
they’re always interested in maintaining their Guyanese connection; and one way to do so is through the renewal of their passports and having a Guyanese passport.”
The Consulate’s services extend to issuing certificates of birth, death, and marriage, notarising documents, and assisting Guyanese nationals in vulnerable situations. Additionally, an emergency travel certificate is available for individuals who have lost their passport and need to travel back to Guyana.
Providing insight into the increasing demand for services, Ambassador Brotherson shared that in 2022, the Consulate processed just under 9,000 passport applications. This number rose to 9,078 in 2023 and further increased to 9,996 in 2024,
Consul General at the Consulate General of Guyana, Ambassador Michael Brotherson
highlighting a growing interest among Guyanese in returning home. “Now, there’s a trend
there,” he noted. “We’ll notice there’s an upward trajectory of more applications, and I believe, in a broader
sense, it speaks to what is happening in Guyana— many Guyanese want to get home, even for just a visit.”
Similarly, visa applications have seen a sharp increase. In 2022, the Consulate issued 29 visas from 14 different countries. By 2023, that number rose to 72 across 20 countries, and in 2024, 125 visas were issued to travellers from over 30 countries.
Brotherson attributed this growth to Guyana’s rising global appeal.
“One can reasonably assume that Guyana is becoming more and more attractive,” he stated, adding that both nationals and foreign visitors are showing heightened interest in the country.
Beyond processing travel documents, the Consulate is engaged in fostering
diplomatic relations with the City and State of New York while ensuring that Guyana’s interests remain a priority.
Ambassador Brotherson also clarified procedures regarding diplomatic passports, explaining that while holding one does not exempt individuals from requiring a visa, visa waiver agreements between countries determine entry requirements.
Brotherson, who has served as Consul General since 2022, reiterated the Consulate’s dedication to assisting Guyanese in the diaspora. He encouraged those seeking services to visit the Consulate’s official website at https:// guyanaconsulatenewyork. org/consul-general/ for more information.
‘No rights, interests or title to the lands’ ––
REAFFIRMING the State’s authority over public lands, Chief Justice Roxane George on Friday dismissed legal challenges filed by six Mocha Arcadia squatters who refused to relocate despite multiple government efforts to provide alternative housing.
According to a release issued by the Attorney-General Chambers, the decision brings finality to a prolonged legal battle in which the squatters, who had occupied lands earmarked for national infrastructure development, sought to claim prescriptive rights while demanding over $200 million in damages from the State.
The decision exposes how the People’s National Congress Reform-led A Partnership for National
Unity (PNC/R-APNU) opposition misled the squatters, encouraging them to resist relocation efforts despite clear government directives and assistance.
As such, the Court found that the squatters had “no rights, interests or title to the lands at Block ‘X’ Plantation Herstelling, East Bank Demerara, an area through which the four-lane Heroes Highway now runs.
The government had previously engaged the residents and issued relocation notices, yet these six individuals remained in defiance, ultimately positioning themselves as “trespassers”.
The Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) made repeated efforts to regularise the situation, notifying the affected
FLASHBACK: Squatters who were in the path of the Eccles to Diamond Four-Lane Highway
individuals that the lands could not be retained for
Chief Justice rules against Mocha squatters –– dismisses $200M claim, proves PNC/APNU
residential purposes due to the highway project.
More than 150 squatters accepted the government’s assistance, including offers of legal house lots, but the six claimants resisted, resulting in the court battle which was filed in September 2023.
The resistant squatters were offered compensation ranging from $3.4 million to $14.3 million, but continued to demand as much as $150 million each to remove.
The Chief Justice ruled that the applicants failed to provide any evidence proving their entitlement to the lands before the passage of the Title to Land (Prescription and Limitation) Amendment Act of 2011.
Additionally, their claims of constitutional breaches, citing protection from inhumane treatment, deprivation of property, and arbitrary entry, were deemed unsubstantiated.
LANDMARK RULING
The AG’s release also said that the “landmark judgement” also sets precedent in addressing illegal squatting on State lands, and highlights the court’s stance on individuals who attempt to obstruct critical national development projects.
“In this regard, the Honourable Chief Justice, in her
misled squatters
Ruling, emphasised that this case has implications for how persons who occupy parapets and reserves which belong to the Government or are managed by Local Authorities are to be dealt with,” the release said.
The opposition’s involvement in misleading the squatters became even more apparent when PNC/ APNU Member of Parliament Nima Flue-Bess provided evidence in support of their case; evidence that the court ultimately dismissed as lacking specificity and relevance.
Further, the Chief Justice pointed out contradictions in the squatters’ arguments, pointing out that while they claimed the CH&PA had no control over the lands, they had initially approached the agency seeking regularisation.
The applicants also wrongly named the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) in their lawsuit, despite the company having no legal claim to the lands since 2017.
With the failure of their case, the squatters have been ordered to pay significant legal costs to the Attorney-General’s Chambers, the CH&PA, and GuySuCo by June 3, 2025.
The Attorney-General, Anil Nandlall, SC, led the legal team representing the
State, alongside Deputy Solicitor-General Shoshanna V. Lall and other government attorneys. The CH&PA was represented by attorneys Darshan Ramdhani, KC, and Arudranauth Gossai, while GuySuCo’s legal team included Kamal Ramkarran and Senior Counsel Rafiq Khan.
The judgment also reinforces the State’s position that public infrastructure projects, such as the Heroes Highway, must proceed unimpeded in the national interest.
Authorities had long maintained that the squatters’ refusal to relocate was an unnecessary delay to a transformative project designed to improve connectivity and boost economic development.
Government had implored the Mocha squatters to stop being used as political tools and pawns, and see reason in the benefit of moving from the government reserve to the legal, legitimate lands and houses being offered by the government.
On January 5, 2023, the situation became intense when officials from the Ministry of Housing and Water, along with police officers in riot gear came under attack.
They were pelted with molotov cocktails, stones and other implements as they resumed demolition of the structures on the government reserve.
Chief Justice
Roxane George
One of the houses being offered to the Mocha squatters (News Room Photo)
Gov’t advances homeownership in Region Ten with Fitzhope/Conception land titles distribution
By Cindy Parkinson Chowbay
THE dream of homeownership is becoming a reality for hundreds of families in Fitzhope/Conception (Amelia’s Ward, Phase 4) as the process for Agreements of Sale and Certificates of Title for residential lots officially begins.
On hand for this landmark occasion on Friday at the Watoooka House in Linden were Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal; Minister within the Ministry, Susan Rodrigues; Permanent Secretary, Bishram Kuppen and other senior officials, underscoring
the government’s commitment to improving housing access in Region Ten.
Minister Croal highlighted this initiative as a major step toward homeownership, granting beneficiaries access to mortgages and financial stability. He acknowledged past challenges, including illegal land occupation, but reassured residents that the government remains steadfast in addressing the 4,000-applicant backlog in the region. In a comment to the Guyana Chronicle, the housing minister said, “this aims to elevate the standard of living for our community. The housing policy current-
ly aims to guarantee that individuals can access safe, affordable, and adequate housing within diverse communities that are supported by the necessary infrastructure. That is our goal, and this is what we are working towards for all Guyanese.”
Minister Rodrigues reinforced the administration’s pledge to deliver on all outstanding housing applications, noting that the government aims to process more than 25,000 applications this year alone. She also pointed to ongoing land acquisition efforts and emphasised that the recently-passed national budget will provide crucial funding
for continued housing developments.
According to her, “I echoed the government’s dedication to fulfilling all outstanding applications, aiming to surpass 25,000 processed applications this year. I also highlighted the ongoing land acquisition efforts and how the recently passed budget will fuel continued housing initiatives. Region Ten can look forward to significant developments across all sectors, including addressing
squatting.”
Region Ten residents can expect substantial progress in the housing sector, with measures in place to regularise squatting and expand access to affordable land. Over 400 allocations have already been made in Amelia’s Ward, Phase 4, catering to citizens across all income brackets. Lot identification is currently underway, with significant investments already poured into infrastructure development.
In 2024, the government allocated $127.5 million for road construction and pavement in the area, with additional investments earmarked in the 2025 budget to further enhance housing accessibility and community development.
As the government accelerates its national housing agenda, initiatives like these reaffirm its dedication to providing sustainable and affordable housing solutions for all Guyanese.
Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, listens attentively to the concerns as the process for Agreements of Sale and Certificates of Title for residential lots officially begins
Applicants at the Watoooka House in Linden benefitting from government’s commitment to improving housing access in Region Ten
NDMA’s cyber security training empowers Indigenous communities
THE National Data Management Authority’s (NDMA) cyber security and e-Services training is steadily empowering Indigenous communities by enhancing their digital skills and connectivity.
On Friday, the NDMA provided an update on its ongoing training sessions in villages across Region Nine. During recent engagements, Toshaos of Katoonarib and Sawariwau villages emphasised the benefits of WiFiGY and highlighted the importance of NDMA’s training initiatives in empowering their communities.
With access to reliable internet and digital liter-
acy skills, residents are better equipped to engage with online government services, e-learning, and economic opportunities.
The NDMA reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring no community is left behind as Guyana advances towards a more connected and digitally inclusive future.
Speaking on behalf of Katoonarib Village residents, Toshao Seon Brescenio noted that since the launch of WiFiGY six months ago, residents have seen numerous benefits. He emphasised that the internet connection has linked the village to the rest of Guyana and the world, enabling vil -
lagers to stay informed.
“What I’m noticing now, and what I am seeing, is that our young teachers are online more. They’re doing college, they’re getting their degree through the WiFi connection,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Toshao Bernardine Fernandes of Sawariwau Village highlighted improved communication throughout the village since NDMA’s involvement. “Where the Village Council has to communicate directly with Government Officials, the RDC, and other agencies, it has been a huge benefit,” Fernandes noted. He also pointed out that teachers in the community are benefitting significantly from online studies at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE).
Ongoing training by the NDMA in Region Nine
cates villagers on both the opportunities and risks of the internet, enabling them to use it responsibly.
The most critical benefit, Fernandes outlined, is that the entire village is now connected thanks to WiFiGY. He expressed appreciation for NDMA’s Cyber Hygiene Training Programme, which edu -
The NDMA’s 2025 Cyber Hygiene Training Programme in the South Rupununi underscores its dedication to not only providing free internet access through WiFiGY but also equipping communities
with the knowledge to use digital resources safely and effectively.
With the introduction of WiFiGY and ongoing training, the NDMA is not only bridging the digital divide but also fostering a safer, smarter, and more empowered future for Indigenous communities in Guyana.
EMTs hailed for swift response in rescuing pinned truck driver at Lusignan
IN the face of chaos and destruction, two Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) -Phebe Scott and Lynsia Pyle- demonstrated exceptional bravery
and skill, saving the life of a truck driver who was pinned inside his vehicle after a horrific crash at Lusignan Public Road, East Coast Demerara.
According to a release from the Guyana Fire Service, Ambulance#23 and crew together with water tender #102 from Melanie Fire Station, responded to the accident call approximately 11:25 hrs on the day in question.
“Upon arrival, EMT Scott immediately climbed onto the truck and mobilised a rescue operation while rendering medical care to the driver, who was later removed and transported to
the Georgetown Public Hospital by EMTs in conscious state,” the release stated.
The truck driver who was later identified as 28-year-old Atash Singh, lost control of his truck and collided with a car and a house causing severe damages to both properties.
Singh suffered severe avulsion to the right side of his face and laceration to his right arm, while the driver of the car, 31-year-old Jameela Kelvin, sustained abrasion about the body and pains to the shoulder.
The accident also caused severe damages to a two-storey concrete building owned by Bibi Navia
Shaffie, at Lot 2 B Area H Lusignan Public Road, East Coast Demerara; however, no life was lost.
As such, the Guyana
Fire Service is once again encouraging all drivers to apply the five 5 Cs of Driving: Care, Caution, Courtesy, Consideration and Commonsense when on the roadways, as this will help to keep our roads safe while reducing the incidents of road accidents.
EMT Scott and Pyle during the rescue operation
EMT Phebe Scott
EMT Lynsia Pyle
AFC struggling for funds
–– Hughes claims
LEADER of the Alliance For Change (AFC), Nigel Hughes has said that his party is hoping to raise funds.
Hughes made this admission on Friday during the party’s press conference, during which party members fielded ques -
tions from the media. Responding to a question, Hughes noted the party is struggling currently for funds. He said, “We’re not like the PPP, who says that they don’t need any money at all. We are hoping to raise funds.”
However, the PPP/C has established that it is designing a framework to secure the necessary finances to fund its campaign for the upcoming elections.
Against this backdrop, Hughes noted that whenever the party is able to raise those funds, they will use them as effectively as possible where they think will help them in “getting
into office”.
This admission by the party leader comes amid several challenges it has faced in recent years, including its dwindling membership.
At the party’s most recent congress, during which Hughes was elected, there were only 211 delegates, as compared to its 2022 congress, which saw some 285 delegates.
Later last year, the party again struggled to draw a satisfactory audience during its visit to New York, where it attempted to engage Guyanese in the Diaspora.
Based on images posted by party executives, the events were poorly attended, and critics said it reflects the reality of the ailing AFC.
Hughes at the time acknowledged that the AFC had suffered significant political blows in recent years, attributing part of the downfall to one of its
own candidates.
At the end of 2022, the AFC terminated its political coalition with the APNU, which was established in 2015.
The AFC had openly complained about APNU ignoring its smaller coalition members.
AFC leader Nigel Hughes
GECOM refutes misleading report on digital fingerprinting in elections
THE Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has expressed concern over a misleading headline published in the February 7, 2025 edition of Kaieteur News, which falsely suggested that the Commission could introduce digital fingerprinting at elections without legislative provisions.
The article, titled “No law preventing GECOM from employing digital fingerprinting at elections - but Chairman says time to introduce system too short”, has been described by GECOM as a misrepresentation of the position stated by its Chairman, Justice Claudette Singh.
In a statement, GECOM clarified that Justice Singh’s comments specifically addressed digital fingerprint capture during voter registration, not elections. The Commission emphasised that registration and elections are two distinct processes governed by separate legal frameworks.
Justice Singh outlined her position by referencing Section 9(1A) of the National Registration Act, which allows the Commission to determine procedures for the acquisition and electronic processing
of data. She noted that this provision does not prevent the introduction of a system where fingerprints are digitally captured during registration. However, she underscored that implementing biometric verification at polling stations would require legislative amendments.
GECOM reaffirmed its stance that while digital fingerprint capture may be considered for voter registration, the introduction of biometric technology at polling stations is not currently being pursued due to legal and logistical constraints. The Chairman further suggested that hiring a technical consultant would be necessary to ensure a comprehensive approach to digital fingerprint capture during registration.
Justice Singh also advised against launching a digital fingerprint capture system while preparing for upcoming elections, citing concerns related to logistical challenges, technical complexities, political and social acceptance, and financial costs. She cautioned that incorporating new technology amid election preparations could overburden resources and personnel.
GECOM urged media
houses to verify information before publication to prevent the spread of misinformation and disinformation, which can undermine public confidence in the electoral process. The Commission remains committed to transparency and due process in electoral administration.
GECOM Chairperson, Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh
Gov’t investments in livestock sector continuously changing lives
THE government’s continuous investments in the livestock sector are significantly bettering the lives of Guyanese farmers by providing assistance and resources to bolster their agricultural activities.
From 2020 to now, the government has not faltered in supporting Guyanese and their ambitious endeavours in the agriculture sector.
Minister of Agriculture
Zulfikar Mustapha, during a recent interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI), highlighted the government’s efforts to continue supporting locals and propel growth in the livestock sector by 7.5 per cent in 2025.
A grand $1.7 billion budget was designated to bring this goal to fruition and further build on the tremendous accomplishments achieved in 2024.
Upon assuming office in 2020, the government embarked on a comprehensive plan to radically transform the sector, and reverse the damage left after years of neglect by the previous administration.
During their tenure, the
former government left acres of cattle pastureland to overgrow, neglected farmers’ needs, and failed to acquire sufficient resources and research among numerous other detrimental actions.
Contrastingly, the PPP/C government has implemented scores of transformational strategic initiatives to revitalise the sector and open the door to economic prosperity for farmers nationwide.
A particularly commendable undertaking was the Broiler Breeder Project which boasted unprecedented achievements in 2024.
For the first time, Guyana produced 167,000 hatching eggs, providing resources to 5,566 farmers.
Minister Mustapha explained the vitality of this project, saying, “This project targets self-sufficiency of Broiler hatching eggs to address uncertainty in supply with the recent avian
extended beyond implementing grand investments, and reached to assisting small-scale farmers.
Guyana has received 1,000 sheep and increased lamb stocks by 715 lambs through the Barbados Black Belly Sheep Project.
Through this government intervention, numerous farmers in every region witnessed their yields expanding, and in some cases doubling.
Farmers like 64-yearold Jacob Sheperd and single parent Yvonne Morris were able to triumph over their respective challenges, develop their flock, and improve their breeding.
influenza outbreak.”
He further emphasised how an allocated $85 million in Budget 2025 will propel this project’s advancement.
“In 2025, the broiler breeding facility will be further expanded with the procurement and installation of additional incubators, and there will be established poultry zones for improved biosecurity and economies of scale,” he said.
The government’s focus
Other notable achievements in this sector include: The upgrade of 28,000 acres of pastures in Regions Three, Five, Six and Ten; the opening up of 60 five-acre plots for pasture in Region Five; and the distribution of thousands of broilers and ducklings. Removal of value added tax (VAT) on key inputs in the poultry industry and zero-rating the poultry industry; Embryo Transfer Programme producing 238
confirmed pregnancies and 56 calf births; The expansion of primary ingredients in livestock feed like corn and soybean; Bull Importation Programme which saw 64 bulls being imported, resulting in 220 births to date, benefiting 34 farmers in six regions; Honey production increasing from 2,600 gals in 2023 to almost 30,000 gals in 2024; Investments in abattoirs for beef, ducks and swine, and advancements in the poultry and dairy milk industries to encourage private sector investment; The implementation of strict biosecurity measures; and the introduction of tunnel ventilated pens for broilers which continues to reduce the occurrence of endemic diseases
Continued budgetary allocations and unwavering government support will continue to benefit small and large-scale farmers, placing Guyana in an advantageous position to boast one of the strongest agriculture sectors in the Caribbean.
(DPI)
Proposal being developed to address lump sum NIS payment for persons short of required contribution
–– $10 billion allocation approved –– Dr Singh says
By Shamar Meusa
STAYING on track with an announcement by President Dr Irfaan Ali late last year that sums of money will be allocated to address lump sum payments for persons who had not met the required contributions to the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), a proposal is being developed to roll this programme out soon.
This is according to Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh, who made this disclosure on Wednesday during the final day of the consideration of the estimates and expenditures for 2025.
Questioned on the purpose of a $10 billion allocation for the NIS, Dr Singh reminded members of the parliamentary committee of supply of an announcement made by President Dr. Irfaan Ali in October 2024 during which he said that the government will make available an amount of $10 billion to address the issue.
“Specifically, to address the fact that there are persons who have marginally missed for one reason or another, the minimum eligibility requirements for pension,” he said.
Giving a further explanation, he noted that the sum would cater for some persons who have not met the required 750
minimum contributions to the scheme and are unable to get a pension from the NIS.
“So, this $10 billion injection is specifically to address those persons who have missed [or] who don’t have 750 [contributions] within a clearly defined margin; to address those persons and to give them a one-off payment in recognition of the fact that they have missed their eligibility for pension by just a marginal number of contributions,” he explained to the committee.
Against this backdrop, he noted that the NIS is currently analysing their data and they are working on developing a proposal which will be announced in due course.
After President Ali’s announcement in October, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo had said that this sum would help those persons, as some of them were not to be blamed for not meeting the requirements.
“Many times, their employers never deducted or deducted and never transmitted their deductions to the NIS on their behalf, and they were not aware until they retired and then sought to collect their pension, and they’re told you don’t have the contributions,” he said. Hopefully, he noted that the lump-sum payment would offset the contributions that they have made over the many years to the country and to the NIS itself.
Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh
Guyana on path to unprecedented prosperity
REGION Three Private Sector Inc. (R3PSInc)
Head, Halim Khan, has lauded the 2025 National Budget as a progressive and people-centred financial plan that will further propel Guyana’s rapid economic transformation while improving the well-being of citizens.
His endorsement comes in light of the Government’s recent passage of the budget and its commitment to economic stability, massive infrastructural expansion, and social welfare enhancements—all without imposing new taxes on the population.
Khan highlighted that Budget 2025, presented by Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance
and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh, is a continuation of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government’s unwavering commitment to national development.
He commended the budget’s strategic focus on infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, and social welfare, noting that these investments will create immense opportunities for businesses and individuals alike.
BUSINESS-FRIENDLY BUDGET
The Region Three business leader emphasised that the budget’s pro-growth measures, including tax reliefs and direct financial support to various sectors,
–– says Region Three Private Sector Head on passage of 2025 budget
will further stimulate investment and enhance job creation.
Khan noted that since the PPP/C’s return to office in 2020, the reversal of punitive taxes and the introduction of business-friendly policies have led to unprecedented economic growth. The 2025 budget continues in this vein, ensuring that businesses have the support needed to thrive.
“The reduction in personal income tax rates and the increase in the income tax threshold will provide greater disposable income to Guyanese, thereby driving consumer spending and fostering business expansion. Additionally, the allocation of $112.6 billion to the housing sector will not only benefit homeownership but
also boost the construction industry, leading to more jobs and economic stimulation,” Khan stated.
Khan particularly praised the Government’s targeted sectoral investments, which he said align with the vision of a modern, prosperous Guyana. Notably, he highlighted the $175 billion allocation to education, which advances the goal of free world-class education for all, and the $143.2 billion injection into healthcare, which will significantly enhance public healthcare services.
“Our education and healthcare systems are fundamental pillars of our nation’s future. The Government’s commitment to investing in these sectors demonstrates a long-term vision for national prosperity and human capital development,” Khan affirmed.
Additionally, the $104.6 billion earmarked for agriculture and food security is a major boost to the nation’s food self-sufficiency efforts. As Guyana continues to position itself as the breadbasket of the Caribbean, these investments will empower farmers, modernise agricultural practices, and contribute to regional food security.
Beyond business and economic growth, Khan underscored the budget’s significant social measures that will
directly benefit Guyanese families. These include the increase in old-age pension from $36,000 to $41,000, the Because We Care Cash Grant increase to $50,000 per student, and the introduction of a $100,000 one-off grant for every newborn baby born to a Guyanese mother.
“These initiatives clearly reflect the Government’s commitment to uplifting every segment of society. The cash transfers and social benefits will enhance the quality of life for thousands of Guyanese families, ensuring that our people share in the country’s wealth,” Khan said.
Khan reiterated his confidence in the PPP/C Government’s leadership, noting that Budget 2025 is a testament to their ability to govern effectively, deliver on promises, and maintain economic stability. He pointed to the Government’s track record of fiscal responsibility, prudent management of national resources, and a clear vision for sustained progress.
“Minister Singh has rightfully highlighted that the APNU+AFC opposition has continuously failed to present realistic and credible economic plans. Unlike the opposition’s empty promises, the PPP/C has demonstrated a commitment to action, delivering real results for the people of Guyana,” Khan asserted.
With national elections on the horizon, Khan expressed his unwavering support for the PPP/C Government, stating that its leadership remains the best choice for Guyana’s continued advancement.
“The progress we have seen since 2020 is undeniable. Budget 2025 builds on this momentum and sets the stage for an even brighter future.
I have full confidence that the PPP/C will continue to lead Guyana towards unprecedented prosperity beyond 2030,” Khan concluded.
R3PSInc Head, Halim Khan
Human Services Ministry sensitises ERC on family violence, sexual offences laws
THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, through its Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Policy Unit (SO&DVPU), recently conducted a comprehensive sensitisation session with members of the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), equipping them with crucial legal knowledge on addressing reports of violence.
The session, held at the ERC boardroom, focused on the newly enacted Family Violence Act of 2024 and the Sexual Offences Act of 2010, offering in-depth analysis of their legal provisions. It underscored advancements in the Family Violence Act, particularly its broadened scope of protection, which now includes unmarried cohabitating couples and samesex couples, extending legal safeguards to the LGBTQI+ community.
Participants also received detailed briefings on key aspects of the Sexual Offences Act, including evidence collec-
tion, bail procedures, sentencing guidelines, and investigative processes. Additionally, ERC members were informed about the ministry’s various reporting mechanisms, such as the 914 Hotline, the iMatter App, and the Survivors’ Advocate Programme, which provide accessible and confidential reporting options for survivors of violence.
Allizen Welch-Critchlow, Legal Pro-bono Manager, highlighted the importance of educating agencies on these legal frameworks, stating, “The legal aspect of this training was seen as a very important one to incorporate into the knowledge of the ERC members. It is always important for institutions to understand the laws geared towards protecting survivors from sexual offences, as well as family violence offences.”
This session builds upon previous sensitisation efforts initiated in November, which primarily addressed gender-based violence. Ex-
panding the discussion, Kwame Gilhuis, Prevention and Education Officer of the SO&DVPU, noted, “Violence extends beyond gender to include ethnicity. This training with the ERC specifically addressed the intersection of ethnicity and gender-based violence.”
Gomin Camacho, Chief Executive Officer of the ERC, expressed appreciation for the training, acknowledging its role in capacity building. “This training on the Family Violence Act and Sexual Offences Act is invaluable for the ERC. Our staff gained a thorough understanding of these laws, and the proper procedures for reporting incidents of violence to the relevant authorities,” Camacho affirmed. This initiative reaffirms the ministry’s commitment to educating key agencies on landmark legislation, enhancing collective efforts to combat violence, and ensuring justice for survivors across Guyana.
Participants also received detailed briefings on key aspects of the Sexual Offences Act, including evidence collection, bail procedures, sentencing guidelines, and investigative processes
STEM in Motion: Students compete for top honours at Mousetrap Car Grand Prix
THE 2025 edition of the Guyana Monaco Mousetrap Car Grand Prix took centre stage at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on Friday, showcasing the engineering and creative prowess of students from 12 secondary schools across the country.
Organized by SBM Offshore in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport, the event provided an exciting platform for young minds to put their innovation and problem-solving skills to the test.
The competition featured three categories: Acceleration, Advance, and Innovation and Creativity. Teams vied for top honours, with first-place winners earning a $350,000 cash prize to enhance their school’s science laboratory and the opportunity to travel to Monaco to compete in the international grand prix.
In the Acceleration cat-
egory, Abram Zuil Secondary School emerged victorious, building the fastest mousetrap-powered car that covered the greatest distance in the shortest time. Their meticulously designed model demonstrated superior engineering and precision, outpacing the competition in a thrilling showcase of speed.
St. Rose’s High School took home first place in the Advance category with an impressive design that not only completed the track but also autonomously reversed to the starting point. The feat, achieved through a sophisticated combination of mechanical and programming techniques, showcased the students’ advanced engineering skills and ingenuity.
Making a remarkable debut, Paramakatoi Secondary School, the only hinterland competitor in this year’s event, claimed victory in the Innovation
and Creativity category. Their unique design incorporated a traditional indigenous plant material used for crafting hunting and fishing arrows. The lightweight yet sturdy material gave their vehicle an edge, highlighting the students’ exceptional resourcefulness and deep-rooted connection to their cultural heritage.
Now in its third year, the Guyana Monaco Mousetrap Car Grand Prix continues to grow in popularity and participation, encouraging secondary school students nationwide to engage in hands-on science and engineering projects. This year’s competition also saw an accessible online registration process, further expanding its reach and impact.
The event underscored the value of fostering innovation, teamwork, and problem-solving skills among young learners.
With corporate and governmental support,
Abram Zuil Secondary School took home first place in the Acceleration category. In the Advance category, St. Rose’s High School claimed the top spot and Paramakatoi Secondary School, a first-time competitor and the only hinterland school in the competition, clinched the first-place prize in the Innovation and Creativity category
the initiative remains a vital avenue for inspiring the next generation of engineers and innovators, ensuring that Guyana’s future in Science,
Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields remains bright.
Gov’t expands education access in Region Two with new Nursery schools
IN a continued effort to improve access to education, the Government of Guyana has allocated $9.6 billion for developmental projects in Region Two, including the construction of three new nursery schools in hinterland communities.
Regional Chairperson, Vilma De Silva, announced that the Committee of Supply has approved the budgetary allocation, which was piloted by Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Hon. Sonia Parag, M.P. The funding will facilitate the establishment of nursery schools in Siriki and Hackney in the Pomeroon River, as well as Bethany in the Supenaam Creek—communities that previously lacked such educational facilities.
“These projects are aimed at improving the lives of children in remote areas and providing them with a strong academic foundation,” De Silva stated. “The Government of
Guyana remains committed to expanding educational opportunities and listening to the needs of residents.”
The education budget will also support the procurement of a new bus to transport students to the Special Needs School at Cotton Field, ensuring ac-
cessibility for children requiring specialised education.
De Silva highlighted that these nursery school projects fall under the region’s capital works programme and were prioritised based on requests from residents.
She also noted that the Government has made significant strides in expanding educational facilities, including the construction of a new primary school in Mainstay and nursery schools in St. Densy and Mashabo. Additionally, work is underway on a new nursery school in Wakapoa.
Residents have wel -
comed these developments, with parents expressing gratitude for the Government’s continued investment in education. Many lauded the initiative as a crucial step toward providing children in rural communities with better learning environments and opportunities.
The investment in ear-
ly childhood education aligns with the Government’s broader commitment to enhancing learning infrastructure across Guyana, ensuring that children, regardless of their location, have access to quality education in comfortable and wellequipped classrooms.
Regional Chairperson, Vilma De Silva
Traffic Department engages public on road safety measures
IN a concerted effort to enhance road safety and reduce traffic-related incidents, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) Traffic Department has recently conducted a series of educational lectures targeting various road users across the country. These initiatives align with the national road safety theme, “Do the Right Thing,” and emphasise the shared responsibility of all citizens in ensuring safer roadways.
On the night of Wednesday, February 5, 2025, between 10:30 PM and 10:45 PM, Regional Traffic Ranks engaged patrons on Thomas Street, Kitty. The following night, between 12:50 AM and 1:05 AM, a similar session was held on Durban Street. Discussions during these sessions covered critical topics, including: The importance of wearing brightly coloured clothing at night to enhance visibility; the dangers of alcohol consumption while using the road at night; the necessity of wearing safety helmets; proper kerb drill techniques; the risks associat-
ed with overloaded minibuses and standard operating procedures (SOP) to follow when involved in accidents.
On Thursday, February 6, 2025, from 8:30 AM to 9:25 AM, a lecture was conducted for drivers at the Brickdam Traffic Office. This session expanded upon previous topics and introduced additional subjects such as: The consequences of loading minibuses outside designated parks; the use of indecent language in public places; the importance of vehicle examination before
driving; regular maintenance of motor vehicles; consistent use of seat belts while driving; avoiding the playing of loud and vulgar music; adherence to dress codes for drivers and conductors; understanding road markings and drawings; application of the “Five Cs” (Care, Caution, Consideration, Courtesy, and Common Sense) when driving and the principles of defensive driving.
Further extending their outreach , the Traffic Department held discussions
with motor lorry drivers along Hope Public Road, East Coast Demerara, and at Orangestein Super Mix Inc. on the East Bank Essequibo. Topics addressed included: Zero tolerance for speeding; prohibition of alcohol consumption while driving; the “Five Cs” of driving; ensuring all materials in the lorry’s tray are covered; no tint on the front windscreen; giving priority to pedestrians at crossings; driving within required speed limits; daily vehicle checks before driv-
ing; proper maintenance of motor vehicles; wearing of seat belts; covering of sand and other materials when driving on roadways; use of LED lights on vehicles and ensuring tailgates are closed at all times
These sessions provided a platform for drivers to raise questions and concerns, which were promptly addressed by the officers.
Further , demonstrating a commitment to enhancing pedestrian safety, the GPF Traffic Department,
in collaboration with crew members from the Ministry of Public Works, repainted a pedestrian crossing along Victoria Public Road , East Coast Demerara, on Thursday, February 6, 2025. This initiative aims to provide clear directives for pedestrians when crossing the road.
These recent activities are part of a broader strategy by the GPF to promote road safety through education, enforcement , and community engagement. In late January 2025, the Traffic Department conducted extensive awareness sessions, enforcement activities, and community outreach across various regional police divisions. These efforts included traffic awareness sessions in 15 locations, underscoring the department’s dedication to fostering safer road environments nationwide.
The GPF continues to urge all road users to adhere to traffic laws and adopt safe practices to reduce accidents and fatalities on Guyana’s roads .
The GPF Traffic Department recently gave road safety lectures nationwide
Mr. Basketball pioneer Ken Corsbie dies… ‘He
was beyond basketball’
By Joe Chapman
GUYANA’S renowned cultural icon by the name Ken Corsbie, passed in the United States of America last Monday at the age of 94.
Corsbie was a pioneer of basketball in Guyana, being a former National player and coach, Secretary of the British Guiana Basketball Association (BGBA) and also a National track and field athlete.
In fact, according to his close friend Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira, Ken Corsbie helped introduce the game of basketball to British Guiana in 1954 at the home of the Taitt brothers Laurie and Clairmonte under a sapodilla tree, in Quamina Street, Georgetown, along with Joey and Peter Kaufman, Harry Dyatt, Rowman Savoury and Wilbert Holder.
These youths had been attracted to the game after seeing the ‘Go Man Go’ film at the Globe Cinema in Georgetown, which featured the world famous Harlem Globetrotters basketballers.
Speaking from his home in St. Lucia, the former Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Sports Officer and past Adviser to the Sports Minister in Guyana, Perreira related, “I think they saw that film as a group and they were highly excited. Those who went to Queens College and St. Stanislaus were not interested in cricket. They were interested in track and field and basketball was the new focus.”
However, Perreira said, “there were no basketball
hard courts in Guyana. They picked up as much information as they could which was very scarce, not like now.”
Asked to describe the process, Perreira furthered, “they erected a ring on a sapodilla tree in the Taitt’s yard, which is now Cara Lodge in Quamina Street, and they went through their paces as they remembered what they saw in the Globe Cinema.”
Perreira when contacted said, “Ken was also one of the early players in the National Team that went to Suriname and got beaten by almost 70 points; Corsbie said it was an experience for the players.”
Perreira added that Ken Corsbie had the opportunity to coach Guyana against Suriname when Hewley Henry was the captain and they beat the Dutch team
comfortable, 64-42, victory led by its captain Hewley Henry who played well for his 14 game high points
The second game ended with victory for Suriname, a 66-52 result where Hewley with eight points, supported the efforts of Brian Dummett who top scored with 11.
In the deciding third game
British Guiana defeated Dutch Guiana in a ding-dong tus-
Perreira then described Corsbie on the track as, “a good technical hurdler over 110 metres,” and recalled when he ran at the Barry Massay Olympiad Games in August against an international field in the mid-1950s.
That year of the Barry Massay Sr. August Olympiad, American track and field athlete, William Harrison “Bones” Dillard, who is the
Emerging from that early beginning were the Ravens and Panthers basketball clubs, Perreira noted, and a rivalry which never really stopped until the Panthers dropped out of competition.
In the early 1960s, based on newspaper clippings of the day, Ken Corsbie was described as ‘Mr. Basketball’ in British Guiana and
for the first time in Guyana. Reflecting, ‘Reds’ said It was a historic landmark series where British Guiana (Guyana) defeated Dutch Guiana (Suriname) for the first time.
On April 11, 1962, British Guiana (Guyana) won over Dutch Guiana (Suriname) at the Chinese Court, Cosmos, taking the first game of the three-match series , with a
One
sle, 61-60, with Henry again top scoring with 17 points.
That historic 1962 British Guiana basketball team comprised captain Henry, Eldon Vaughn, Ovid Jackson, Godfrey ‘Chin’ St. Hill, Binky Archer, Compton Nicholson, Brian Dummett, Orson Forbes, Rudolph ‘Speedy’ Franklyn, Joseph Small, Carl Sylvester and Walter Petrie.
only male in the history of the Olympic Games to win gold in both the 100 metre (sprints) and the 110 metre hurdles, making him the “World’s Fastest Man” in 1948 and the “World’s Fastest Hurdler” in 1952, won the 110 metre hurdles, where among those who contested was Guyana’s Ken Corsbie at the Bourda Ground in the mid 1950s.
- says Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira
Perreira also informed that Corsbie was also a national high jumper, but did not do the Fosbury Flop, as he used the Western Roll while representing Guyana in Suriname. But according to Perreira, the early days of athletics did not encourage hurdling. Corsbie did also coach the St. Stanislaus High School in the Secondary Schools basketball tournaments, while he organised the sport at the club level for the BGBA, under the presidency of Sir Lionel Luckhoo. However, back then in the 1950s and 1960s there were few basketball courts among them being the Police drill square, Queens College, Cosmos Chinese Court and the Henry/ Cameron Burnham Court, as it was until 1975 that the National Sports Hall was built. It was in 1963 that Perreira remembered Corsbie spearheading a team called Guyana Celtics which “played in the fairly competitive South London League, comprising mostly of Guyanese players. These players included Corsbie, Lawrence Taitt, Orson Forbes, Terry Martins, Swen Amo, Michael Nobrega and Dicky Finnessa.
Importantly, Perreira reiterated that Corsbie’s pioneering efforts as a player, Coach and official among others, certainly impacted the early beginning of basketball in Guyana at the Taitt’s yard under a sapodilla tree, which young basketball players and administrators ought to know.
Guyana Basketball Premier League Eagles & Pacesetters maintain lead in conferences
THE One Guyana Basketball Premier League is set to continue this weekend with matches on Saturday and Sunday. However, the two conferences see pacesetters and Eagles leading after dominating the opening legs of the countrywide league.
In the Harpy Eagle Conference, Pacesetters have shown themselves flawless with five wins in five outings this season after an opening season blitz.
Defending champion
Ruimveldt Ravens and Kobras round out the top three with three wins each in four outings.
Eagles have also proved early season favourites with four wins in four and are tied for the top spot with University of Guyana Trojans who have 1 loss in their five matches this season in the Jaguars conference.
Nets are the third best team with 3 wins and a loss with four games played.
In this weekend clashes, today (Saturday) four
match-ups are carded.
The Victory Valley Royals first meet Panthers, Leonora D-Up will take on master’s basketball club, Flames will next meet Kobras and then Amelia Ward Jets play Trojans.
Sunday will feature three clashes.
Nets are playing Panthers, Flames are coming up against East Coast All-Stars, and Kobras are tackling Retrieve Raiders.
The league is sponsored by the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and
and the National Sports Commission.
The league is set to conclude in April and features 22 teams in the Jaguars and Harpy Eagles conference drawn from all across the country battling for bragging rights, top dollars, and the coveted trophy.
This year sees the top side collecting a million for first place, with half a million for the second-place team, with third and fourth place also collecting cash prizes along with trophies.
North
Fond memories of Ken Corsbie
AAG to hold overdue AGM on March 16
ACCORDING to a public notice, the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) will hold its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sunday, March 16th, 2025, at the National Racquet Centre. The meeting will elect new office bearers.
The AGM was constitutionally mandated to take place in December 2024 or by January 31st, 2025. However, clubs have agreed to an extension to allow for the new date.
The meeting follows a period of public disputes within the AAG regarding the governance of track and field in Guyana.
In the 2021 elections, President Aubrey Hutson was re-elected after a closely contested vote against incumbent Vice-President Donna Hermonstine.
Neither Hutson nor Hermonstine have publicly declared their intentions to contest the upcoming elections.
CWI First-Class Championship, round two…
Imlach’s
unbeaten 126 keeps Guyana
in the hunt for an outright win
By Sean Devers
UNLESS rain today spoils the party on the final day of the second-round battle at the Providence Stadium between Guyana Harpy Eagles and Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC), the game is intriguingly poised with hosts holding a slim advantage.
When bad light stopped play yesterday with 17 overs to be bowled CCC in their second innings, with a first innings lead of 32, were 32-3 enjoying an overall lead of 64.
Damel Evelyn, on 13 and Andre Bailey on one,
are the hot batters going into day four today. Veerasammy Permaul and Shamar Joseph have picked up a wicket each for Guyana who reached 343 replying to CCC’s first innings total of 375.
Skipper Tevin Imlach led from the front with an unbeaten 126 from 239 balls with 12 fours; his fourth first Class ton.
The 28- year-old Imlach shared in a 120-run partnership for the eighth wicket with the 26-year-old Renaldo Ali Mohamed whose maiden First-Class fifty (77) was decorated with four fours and seven sixes. Fast bowlers Akeem Jor-
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2025
CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ:
(1) Tevin Imlach - 6 (5/1) - 2 Tests
(2) Mohammad Rizwan - 6 (4/2) - 2 Tests
TODAY’S QUIZ:
(1 Which two countries are scheduled to host Champions Trophy 2025?
(2) How many teams are slated to participate?
don (4-68) and Ojay Shields (4-86) were CCC’s best bowlers.
After rain delayed the start of play by two hours, Guyana resumed overnight on 166-6 and lost Richie Looknauth who edged Shields to the Keeper after adding just four to four to his overnight 21 as home slipped to 174-7.
Imlach, overnight on 58 and Ali-Mohammed saw Guyana 190 before another shower halted play 25 minutes before the rescheduled Lunch break which was set for 12:30 hours.
Imlach, Guyana’s latest Test player, was unbeaten on 72, Ali-Mohammed on seven, and their team was still 35 runs away from avoiding the follow-on.
After the interval, Ali-Mohammed employed calculated aggression, and in overcast conditions and was not afraid to pounce on the bad balls.
A disdainful six over mid-wicket and a glorious cover-driven boundary off successive balls of Shields brought up the 200.
Imlach was content to play second fiddle and showed that once you play at the highest level you
Cricket West Indies Championship Round two, Day three Pride, Red Force batters pile on pressure
CMC – BARBADOS
Pride and the Trinidad & Tobago Red Force both produced dominant showings with the bat to remain in control against the West Indies Academy and Windward Islands Volcanoes respectively, when the day/night West Indies Championship matches continued.
innings, losing Ackeem Auguste and Teddy Bishop in quick succession to leave them 23 for two.
Justin Jagessar and Rivaldo Clarke then added 85 runs for the third wicket, but Jagessar was bowled by off spinner Chaim Holder for 26 just before the end of play.
could dominate at this level, as batters played brilliantly; demonstrating wonderful temperament.
Ali-Mohammed soon passed his highest FirstClass score of 41 and reached his fifty with a humongous six off Mahabirsingh to reach his fifty from 48 balls three fours and five sixes.
Imlach became the third batter returning from Pakistan to reach three figures when he executed a deft lap sweep of leggie Mansingh for four. His fourth century came from 185 balls with 11 fours.
When well set for a hundred Ali-Mohammed attempted to cut at a ball that was too close for that shot and was caught behind at 294-8.
Permaul, whose highest score at this level is 90 not out last year played an irresponsible shot and was caught at mid-off off Jordon at 327-9.
Joseph threw his bat and connected twice for boundaries before Joseph was bowled by Jordon for 13 as Imlach ran out of partners.
The final day today is scheduled to commence at 09:30 hours.
Skipper Kraigg Brathwaite scored a sensational double century as the Pride declared their inning on 581 for nine, while Cephas Cooper and Jason Mohammed both hit centuries to help the Red Force build a 263-run first innings lead on the Volcanoes heading into the third day.
At Kensington Oval: Brathwaite notched his fourth first class double century as the Pride built up a hefty first innings total against the WI Academy.
Brathwaite slammed 212 runs from 335 balls, as the Pride accumulated a mammoth 581 for nine declared.
Resuming the day on 143 with his side 354 for three, Brathwaite found solid partners in Demetrius Richards, who made 38, and Leniko Boucher who scored 65, to help the Pride tighten their grip.
When Richards and Brathwaite eventually lost their wickets to leave the score 507 for five, Boucher shared a 46-run partnership with Matthew Forde to help them get to their total.
In their turn at the crease, WI Academy ended the day on 111 for three, still 470 runs behind.
The visitors had a horrible start to their
Clarke ended the day unbeaten on 69 from 90 balls and has so far struck eight fours and two sixes.
At the Arnos Vale Playing Field: Cephas Cooper and Jason Mohammed scored centuries and Amir Jangoo and Yannic Cariah made half centuries and the Red Force kept the Volcanoes in the field the entire day as they established a commanding first innings lead. By the close of play, the Red Force was 429 for seven, a crucial lead of 263 runs.
Cooper made 117, Mohammed scored 103, Jangoo made 84, while Cariah is unbeaten on 84, to put their side in a strong position to push for victory.
Cooper, who faced 225 balls and hit 12 fours and one six, and Jangoo put on 172 runs for the second wicket to propel the Red Force past the Volcanoes’ paltry first innings total of 166.
Later on, Mohammed, who hit nine fours and one six in 193 balls, and Cariah shared a 107run partnership for the fifth wicket to solidify their position.
Darel Cyrus and Sharack Descarte have both captured two wickets apiece for the Volcanoes.
Incumbent President Aubrey Hutson
Imlach’s unbeaten 126 keeps Guyana in
Action in the One Guyana Premier League