Work to commence on Guyana’s first school for the deaf
AS part of continued efforts to promote inclusive education and the development of all learners, the Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand on Tuesday turned the sod to mark the commencement of construction of the country’s first dedicated school for the deaf.
This landmark project, valued at G$194,472,570 will be executed by Superior Supplies and General Construction and is scheduled to be completed within nine months, the Education Ministry said in a press release.
Located in Cummings Lodge, Greater Georgetown, the state-of-the-art facility will cater to 30 learners who are deaf, providing a nurturing environment that celebrates and supports persons living with this disability.
The contract for the construction of the building was awarded after it went through the procurement process by way of public tender, the Education Ministry said.
Beyond being a school, the facility will serve as a resource hub for deaf youth, fostering community connections and enabling personal growth.
In brief remarks, Minister Manickchand said: “This school is a testament to our government’s dedication to inclusivity and equal opportunities for all learners.”
following sod turning for $194.4M project
Minister of Education Priya Manickchand on Tuesday turned the sod to mark the commencement of construction of the country’s first dedicated school for the deaf
The minister commended the work the Deaf Association of Guyana has been doing over the years, and noted that the government is working towards establishing more inclusive spaces across the country.
by Minister Manickchand, recognised the significant contributions the minister made in the sector for more than a decade.
Sabine McIntosh, Director of the Deaf Association of Guyana, who was invited
Assistant Chief Education Officer responsible for Special Education Needs and Development (SEND)
Dr. Keon Cheung noted that the initiative underscores the ministry’s holistic approach to education, in that it recognises the importance of specialised support for learners with special education needs and disabilities.
He highlighted that as
part of this effort, the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) has incorporated deaf education into its curriculum.
Deaf youth enrolled in the SEND programme are now teacher candidates, with additional programmes being
offered by CPCE’s Disability Studies Department to train educators interested in teaching learners who are deaf.
Besides Dr. Cheung, the Education Ministry was joined by fellow SEND official, Senior Education Officer Ms. Nikoya Alleyne.
Transformation of communities to continue with injection of more resources - President Ali says
PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan Ali has pledged to continue making more resources available at the community level, in order to foster further transformation.
The President reaffirmed the government’s position during a community engagement with residents of Friendship on the East Bank
of Demerara.
The government's aim is to advance growth and development at the community level.
“In this 2025 Budget, you will see a tremendous focus on community investment.
We want to build community assets, community wealth,” the Head of State said.
The meeting, one of two for Tuesday afternoon, is a part of the Head of State's drive to interact directly with ordinary Guyanese, on issues and solutions to problems.
At Friendship, he pledged to address issues of drainage, construction of roads and to work with persons to resolve longstanding land issues.
The President also met with residents of Garden of Eden, East Bank of Demerara, and listened to their concerns.
In that community, he said the government would also address issues of deplorable roads, clogged drains, absence of street lights and low water pressure.
Also, a team from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is expected to address land and air pollution and other environmental issues.
In this regard, the President said that the concerns will be addressed in the shortest possible time frame.
He also tasked the Min-
ister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat; the Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues and the Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, to work with key agencies and the communities to resolve the issues raised.
Guyana records US$180M increase in revenue from gold production during 2024 - Minister Bharrat reports
By Trina Williams
GUYANA in 2024 recorded an increase in the production of gold as well as revenues from this lucrative resource, according to Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat.
Even in the face of challenges, efforts continued last year to increase gold production and curb illicit activities, the minister said. Overall, the country was able to earn US$989.9 million from this resource, an increase of US$181 million when compared to
last year.
Minister Bharrat said that in 2024, the sector produced 434,067 ounces of gold compared to 432,113 ounces in 2023.
“I believe this is an encouraging sign for the country, for the sector, and for the stakeholders, so much so that we are seeing now that the number of key stakeholders are expanding or restarting their mining operations, and also they’re new players or new stakeholders entering the sector,” he said.
Expounding on what he
meant by “restarting”, Minister Bharrat stated that several medium-scale miners had left the sector to make investments in the oil and gas and construction sectors, but are returning now to the mining sector.
Additionally, a focus for the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) will be increasing monitoring capabilities, according to him.
In key mining districts, several new small-scale mining lots were allocated in 2024 in Regions One (Barima-Waini), Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) and Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), the minister said.
“So, it simply means almost 500 small miners in 2023-2024 would have had access to their own land, and those miners will soon go into operation,” he said, adding: “So, the prospect for mining and gold mining looks good for 2025.”
Further, he said that works are ongoing to in -
crease the recovery rate for miners, since in 2024, the small and medium-scale miners only achieved about 40 to 45 per cent recovery rate, while the large-scale miners achieved a 95 per cent recovery rate.
“We are also working with the miners to increase their recovery rate,” he said, “because that has been a challenge for miners.”
Notwithstanding the bright prospects, the minister did admit that the sector has faced many challenges, such as drought and flooding.
President, Dr. Irfaan Ali reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming communities with crucial investments, during an engagement with residents of Friendship on the East Bank of Demerara (Office of the President)
Biden looks to relax Cuba sanctions in final days before Trump
THE Biden administration said on Tuesday it would remove Cuba from its terrorism blacklist, while Cuba said separately it would release upward of 500 prisoners from its jails, dual announcements poised to reshape U.S.-Cuba relations just days before Donald Trump takes office.
President Joe Biden’s announcements effectively roll back many of the sanctions put in place by President-elect Trump during his previous term ending in 2021. If they endure, they would represent the most significant advance in U.S.-Cuba relations since the Obama-era detente.
Trump, a harsh Cuba critic who designated the island a state sponsor of terrorism, has not yet commented on the measures but has promised a hard line on the communist-run country. He also nominated U.S. Senator Marco Rubio, the son of immigrants from Cuba and an outspoken critic of the island’s government, as secretary of state.
Biden’s announced plans -- subject to the review of Congress, and the incoming Trump administration -- would lift Trump’s 2021 designation of Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism, easing sanctions on an island already suffering a deep economic crisis.
They would also revoke a 2017 Trump order that restricted financial transactions with some military- and government-linked Cuban entities, according to a senior administration official.
Biden also seeks to prevent individuals from filing lawsuits against both Cuban entities and foreign companies
under the Helms-Burton Act over property seized following Fidel Castro’s 1959 revolution, the official said.
Just one hour after the U.S. announcement, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel announced his government planned to “gradually” release 553 prisoners following talks with Pope Francis.
Cuba faced sharp criticism from rights groups, the United States and the European Union following the imprisonment of hundreds of protesters after riots on July 11, 2021, the largest since Castro’s revolution.
It was not immediately clear whether the prisoners to be released had been detained following those protests.
A Cuban foreign ministry statement said the decision reflected the “humanitarian nature of the Cuban justice system” but did not tie the prisoner release to the Biden announcements.
Cuba’s government called the breakthrough a step in the “right direction,” but accused the U.S. of continued “economic warfare” against the island, warning that the measures could be quickly rolled back and that the Cold War-era U.S. trade embargo against Cuba remained.
Trump, who takes office on Jan. 20, may seek to revive the sanctions overturned by Biden once in office. His transition team and Rubio’s Senate office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
An official said Biden and Trump’s teams had “been in communication” on the topic.
In a brief letter to Congress, Biden said the actions announced on Tuesday were “necessary to the national interests of the United States and will expedite a transition to democracy in Cuba.”
PRISONER RELEASE
Cuba has been discussing the possibility of a prisoner
amnesty with Vatican officials since at least 2023.
The Vatican has proved the linchpin in prior negotiations to release prisoners from the island’s jails. It also helped broker the historic resumption of ties between Cuba and the United States in 2015 under former President Barack Obama.
“There is broad bipartisan support from both parties and certainly both administrations that people in Cuba should not be unjustly detained,” a senior Biden official said on Tuesday.
Cuba maintains that those imprisoned following the 2021 protests had committed crimes ranging from vandalism to sedition.
In the short term, Biden’s new measures were expected to give Havana more space to manoeuvre as it battles the crippling economic crisis.
Shortages of food, fuel, medicine and electricity in Cuba have stoked a record-breaking exodus off the island. At least 1 million Cubans have left by land and sea since 2020, many for the United States, where they contribute to the crisis at the U.S. border.
Trump placed Cuba on the U.S. State Sponsor of Terrorism list in 2021 in the final hours of his first term, saying Havana had repeatedly provided “support for acts of international terrorism” by harboring U.S. fugitives and Colombian rebel leaders.
Cuba denied the allegations, calling the designation a farce and seeking removal from the list, which carries a prohibition on U.S. economic aid and a ban on U.S. arms exports.
Biden officials said a recent review of Cuba’s inclusion on the list had formed the foundation for their decision.
“In our review, what we found is that there is no credible evidence at this time of ongoing support by Cuba for international terrorism,” said one of the U.S. officials. (Reuters)
Bauxite ‘success story’ continues
- with 1.7 million tonnes produced in 2024, thousands employed in the industry, Natural Resources Minister says
By Trina Williams
GROWTH in the bauxite industry continued throughout 2024, with high levels of production, and more employment opportunities, Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat said during his ministry’s 2024 year-in-review press conference on Tuesday.
The consistent advancement of the bauxite industry is as a result of the prudent and strategic interventions of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government, the minister said.
Contrary to this performance, the former coalition administration had crippled the industry during the period 2015-2020.
As was widely reported, production had fallen by more than 40 per cent, and employment reduced by half.
Minister Bharrat detailed the various challenges that the sector had faced owing to the sub-par management of the previous administration.
“When we took over in 2020,” he said, “we were still suffering and trying to recover from the withdrawal of Rusal due to the mismanagement by the previous administration.”
This move had placed over 500 persons on the breadline, the minister said, adding that this unexpected development had
mostly affected communities like Ituni, Kwakwani, and New Amsterdam.
The PPP/C administration has not only reversed this effect, but has also taken the industry further.
In 2023, the production in bauxite was 523,732 tonnes, but in 2024, production jumped to 1.7 million tonnes; this is an increase of 225 per cent in comparison to 2023, Minister Bharrat said, adding:
“So, this has been a real success story for us, especially in generating employment and economic opportunities in Region 10.”
In Linden, Kwakwani and Ituni areas, an increase in jobs has been witnessed, the minister said, while confidently boasting that there are now over 1,000 persons working in the bauxite industry.
“That is an increase of about 300 persons in 2024. We will continue to see significant investment by the company,” Minister Bharrat said.
He also credited the surge in production and employment to the increased investment by BOSAI Mineral Group.
Another area that has witnessed significant achievements was quarrying, as Guyana’s rapid pace of development has translated to growth across all sectors.
The increased demand for building ma-
terials has pushed quarrying to a next level. While in 2020, production was just over 730,000 tonnes, the quarrying sector, now, is undergoing immense growth.
Providing some figures, Minister Bharrat said that 1.8 million tonnes of stone was produced in 2023. But in 2024, this moved to 3.33 million tonnes.
Additionally, because of investor confidence, there has also been the opening of new quarries.
Today, there are 17 operational quarries and a few of the existing quarries are expanding their operations and investments, thereby increasing production.
With more quarries expected to come on stream, Bharrat said: “We are poised to see maybe another five new quarries from new operation in 2025 nearby carrying up our production way about four-million mark.”
Going Positive
THERE are some people in the opposition camp who are so blinded by negativity that they see nothing positive emanating from the policies, programmes and projects executed by the PPP/C administration.
They are so consumed by partisan politics that they find fault in everything the administration does. As the saying goes, those who only look for faults can see nothing else.
Take the recent attempts by the opposition APNU+AFC to convey the impression that funding for the gas-to-shore project by the US Exim Bank was encountering problems, despite assurances by the administration to the contrary.
Now that the loan agreement has been signed, the political opposition has found itself in an awkward position for having attempted to deceive the Guyanese people.
That propensity by the political op -
position to mislead the Guyanese people appeared so ingrained in its psyche that it is well-nigh impossible for them to acknowledge basic truths about our national life. They cannot come to terms with the fact that the PPP/C was democratically elected to office in internationally verified elections. They continue to cast doubts on the integrity of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and its Chairperson when in fact it was the APNU+AFC that conspired with rogue elements of the GECOM Secretariat to rig the March 2020 General and Regional elections.
Unashamedly, they continue to peddle a false narrative of being cheated out of office despite the fact that the recount exercise, supervised by CARICOM observers and under the watchful eyes of local and international observers determined that the election results truly reflected the will of the electorate.
Meanwhile, GECOM has begun preparations for yet another General and Regional elections due later this year. Already the familiar chants of GECOM’s ‘readiness’ and ‘impartiality’ are being heard both from the PNC and the AFC. The opposition parties are already making frivolous demands for a new house-to-house registration and the introduction of biometrics.
As pointed out by PPP General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, the PPP is not opposed to biometrics in principle but noted that adequate mechanisms are already in place by GECOM to ensure a free and fair poll.
The concern is that the political opposition with its propensity for mischief could see biometrics as yet another ploy at attempted manipulation of the electoral process. Regarding the sanitization of the Voters List, the introduction of Continuous Registration is intended to do just that,
which, in addition to the statutory Claims and Objections period, are reasonably adequate to ensure a clean and accurate list of electors.
The current attempt by the political opposition to question the competence of GECOM and its Chairperson to conduct free and fair elections is a worrying development. One wonders whether the opposition is already setting the stage to cry foul in anticipation of a crushing electoral defeat at the upcoming polls.
The ruling PPP/C administration, however, remains undaunted by the utterances of the political opposition and is doing everything within its power to ensure that the Guyanese people benefit maximally from the fruits of democracy and that GECOM is provided with the requisite financial and other resources to effectively carry out its mandate of delivering free, fair and credible elections.
Zero tolerance for corruption
Dear Editor,
TOUGH talk and stringent rules are insufficient to stop corruption, as this social menace is grounded into a subculture that had its genesis in colonialism, and which has persisted into the present.
To uproot this subculture (characterised by low guilt, selfishness, greed, and twisted values) would not be easy, but this does not suggest any paralysis of action to mitigate or control it.
Corruption takes many forms and expresses itself in situations of bribery, kickbacks on contracts, not sticking to specifications, shoddy work, ineffective project management, denying contract award to the most responsive and responsible bidder; delaying payments for work done; conflict of interest, paying off for jobs not completed, sabotaging government’s policies and programmes, favoritism in staff promotion, among others. What is often overlooked is the despicable behaviour of public officials who abuse their position of authority to engage in sexual conduct. And what about trying to steal an election?
At the legal level, the Integrity Commission must enforce its mandate of requiring
top state officials, including MPs, to file their annual income and assets report and they must be sanctioned (including given jail time) if they fail to comply.
Another stringent measure was enacted that requires the minister responsible for Finance to publicise and notify Parliament on the revenues and withdrawals from the Natural Resources Fund (NRF). Failure for non-compliance could result in jail time for the subject minister. Though these and other measures have been instituted to achieve accountability, one must ask if they have been effective in curbing corruption.
Why was there a pressing need for both the Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo (at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre) and President Dr Irfaan Ali (at State House) in September 2024 to speak out strongly against public misconduct?
They avoided the use of the word corruption, but their subliminal message was telling. Why did Minister of Governance and Parliamentary Affairs found it necessary to conduct an “Anti-Corruption March?”
As leaders, they know that while the rapid development and transformation of Guyana create numerous opportunities for economic
and social development, they also recognise that these generate setbacks that shake up traditional values and unwittingly create more opportunities for deviance, including corruption. In addition, they know that opposition forces would capitalise on this setback (corruption) and would readily exploit it to their advantage.
The opposition forces would be hard pressed to use racism as a political tool because of the PPPC government’s embrace of the “One Guyana” philosophy (with its numerous achievements in diversity, equity, and inclusion) which is so compelling that it blunts the appeal to racism.
Consequently, they (opposition) have elevated corruption at the top of their political arsenal. A caveat is necessary. While they would continue to lament that a significant ethnic group is suppressed, and would only relent if they acquire state power, they will not discard the race card and would use it as needed.
Laws, rules, regulations, swift auditing, and tough talks are insufficient to curb corruption, which is grounded in a subculture which gradually engulfs its participants into corruption addiction. A powerful deterrence for this addiction is jail term for those found guilty.
Since two or more individuals benefit (illegally) from corrupt practices, none is likely to come forward to provide evidence. A few persons who might be inclined, would fear victimisation. This is a major challenge to the authorities. What I suggest as one method to deal with this matter is for the government, through SOCU, to consider undertaking “sting” operations.
Conventional methods are not effective. It is necessary, therefore, that the government works to strengthen (reform) existing enforcement institutions and create an Independent Office of Inspector General (OIG).
The OIG would have oversight and investigative authority. It would review standard operating procedures, specifications, quality control measures, evaluation committee reports, accounting procedures and protocols, areas of weak governance, etc. notwithstanding, in the short term, jail sentence might be appropriate for infractions.
There must be ZERO TOLERANCE for corruption.
Sincerely, Dr Tara Singh
Are the owners of Stabroek News contemplating entering into politics?
Dear Editor,
LEST there be any misunderstanding at all, I wish to make it very clear that I am not, let me repeat, not writing this letter on behalf of the government.
I write it out of sheer disappointment and chagrin that the Stabroek News has descended to the level of the Kaieteur News, and has jumped on the bandwagon of the popular cry for renegotiating the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) with Exxon.
Worse, the Stabroek News Editorial of Monday, January13, 2025 joins its columnist Christopher Ram in singling out President Ali for personal attack.
According to the author of the editorial (it may not be the Editor-in-Chief, Anand Persaud, though, ultimately, he is accountable), “there is, however, a big fly in the ointment: The Government of Guyana, or more precisely President Ali. The government is steadfastly refusing to do its duty to invite ExxonMobil to the negotiating table in the same manner that Guyana was invited in 2016”. This is rubbish. 2025 is not 2016.
Our country is palpably now, as distinct from then, hugely benefitting from the massive development taking place from the money that comes from the oil and gas.
In his response to the Kaieteur News reporter at his press conference raising the same question, the President made the point: “I think that you also are aware of the tremendous benefit from the resources we are getting, not only from oil and gas, but from the expanded economy, are bringing to our country”.
The President gave examples: “We are able to restore the Because We Care grant that was taken away by the APNU+AFC government that will go to $50,000 per
child. We are giving every single child text-books in their school. We are building a world-class healthcare system. We are building an education system in which secondary education will be available to all of our children”.
These are benefits directly affecting each and every one of us. He could have gone on to mention the hugely expanding infrastructure of roads and bridges destined to open up the hitherto unreachable parts of our country for the purpose of development and the expansion of our tourism industry.
According to the Stabroek News, “there has to be some explanation for why President Ali and his government is refusing to invite ExxonMobil to the table when Georgetown accepted such an invitation in 2016”.
The answer is obvious and the President has given it, but the author of the Stabroek News editorial chooses to ignore it. ExxonMobil is not interested. The contract states that both parties must agree to the renegotiation. Forcing Exxon to the negotiation table at this point in time would be senseless.
As I pointed out in my letter of January 7, 2025, we would risk “Exxon shutting down production in the interim, regardless of whether they are legally permitted to do so or not”, and we would witness “a plethora of potential investors cancel their visits to Guyana and those that are here buy their tickets out of Guyana”.
The government has not, as the Stabroek News claims, “refused to renegotiate” and the President was pellucid at his press conference in explaining: “what we committed to was to respect the sanctity of contract, that’s international law that has implications for us as a country. Other investors are looking on. What we said is that future PSAs would not
have these fatal flaws, and future PSAs would not have the type of one-sided arrangement that Exxon had, and we have made those adjustments to future PSAs….we have also to understand the market in which we are operating to ensure that whatever we do from a policy perspective does not drive away investment, but that it strikes the balance where you can have investment whilst at the same time have the greatest benefit to Guyanese people and our country”.
A letter published alongside of the Stabroek News Editorial from Dr. Stanley A.V. Paul underscores the wisdom of the President and the government’s position. Dr. Paul writes “it is my contention that governance particularly in time of immense national transformation, must transcend the reactive implementation of public sentiment. Instead, it demands prudence, foresight, and a commitment to balancing the immediacy of popular opinion with the enduring necessity of stability and sustainability”.
The author of the Stabroek News Editorial should have read the letter before putting pen to paper?
The Kaieteur News and now Stabroek News demands for renegotiation have, not surprisingly, provided fodder to others to feed off such as the disappointing and surprising reactions to this public sentiment, such as Dr. Vincent Adams, whom I personally respect and who should know better, claiming that “the Government of Guyana has cowardly refused to engage the company in dialogue for better benefits for Guyanese”.
Dr. Adams should more properly address his concern to his boss in the AFC, Nigel Hughes, whose conflicting legal interest permanently prevent him from even addressing Exxon on the subject of renegotiation, and then there is the verbose meaningless
buffoonery of G.H.K Lall.
As the President went on to warn at his press conference, “when you look at the oil and gas sector in totality, and you look at what is happening around the world. Exxon pulled out of Suriname….if you look at the Middle East, and you look at some places in Africa there is tremendous pulling out of assets. What we have in Guyana is consolidation of assets. So, we have to understand the balance and what is taking place in the market. The market is not simplistic”. No, it’s not. But sadly, simplistic is an apt description of the collective bleating for renegotiation coming from the Kaieteur News, mimicked now, sadly, by the Stabroek News, for forcing renegotiation on ExxonMobil regardless of the consequences and, at the end of the day, with no predictable results which would benefit Guyana.
Amusing, to put it mildly, was the suggestion from the author of the Stabroek News editorial that a political party, excluding, of course, the PPP/C and the APNU+AFC, “could contest the 2025 elections on this single issue – renegotiating the contract” and that this “could put both of the major parties on the back foot”.
Are the owners of the Stabroek News contemplating entering into politics? That opinion alone tells you how incredibly absurd and absolutely thoughtless is the argument for renegotiation now.
The time may come, in fact, for the government to initiate the renegotiation of the 2016 PSA contract but it is certainly not now.
Any attempt at it would be a prescription for losing the elections.
Yours sincerely, Kit Nascimento
Young people can no longer be misled
Dear Editor,
REFERENCE is made here to remarks delivered on two separate occasions by the current Leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC), a third party that once hoped to strike a very important balance between the two major political parties.
A third party that spoke highly of its credibility and ability to be the difference in a political landscape that it claimed was overtaken by lies, exaggerations, and omissions of the truth.
In the party’s January 3 press conference, AFC Leader Nigel Hughes doubled down on his position that there were 1,200 Afro-Guyanese men who “disappeared” with some or all of the responsibility being laid at the feet of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) that was then in office.
Subsequently, a passionate young man named Nikhil Sankar questioned the validity of this number, sharing his view that the inflation of the numbers could be a direct attempt to reopen and even exacerbate the wounds caused by the horrendous crime wave that occurred from 2002-2006.
Rightfully, Nikhil challenged the amount highlighted by the AFC leader, as it appears as if he expected Guyanese to believe what he said because he was the one saying it. This debate sparked a desire for intense research in my mind. I began to ask myself
real questions about these alleged disappearances of young black men like myself, and wondered how something of this magnitude could happen with little to no authoritative and objective documentation of what had transpired.
After doing some digging, I stumbled upon an impressively detailed article titled Prison Break Carnage: A Stabroek News Investigation. In its preamble, the dossier admitted that there was – and, apparently, there still is – what it terms a “heated disputation” surrounding “the number of persons who died in the violence following the…2002 jailbreak”.
Now, what is very important to note is that this dossier, possibly the only compilation of the deaths during the horrendous crime wave that is published and up for scrutiny, details that of some 420 people who were killed, 151 were murdered by bandits, 239 killed in confrontations with law enforcement and in unexplained circumstances, and 30 security officers who lost their lives.
A considerable proportion of those who were killed were of ethnicities other than Afro-Guyanese.
At the end of the first paragraph, Stabroek News admits that it may not have been able to capture every single death. However, the newspaper affirmed that those not embedded in the dossier “would only be
a small number..
With this sort of information, one finds it increasingly difficult to understand how a political leader who intends to run for office in some form or the other, would be so callous as to blurt out numbers that would only serve to instill fear in those listening about the magnitude of the events that unfolded.
But that is not all.
On Friday last, after the challenge by Sankar, Nigel Hughes appears to dismiss the original number he doubled down on. In response to a particular question posed to him, Hughes says: “If you’re asking me to argue whether it is 1,200, or 1,100, or 1,400, to me that’s secondary…”
I wish not to impute any improper motives of Hughes or anyone else. But the reality is simple – our young people deserve the truth. If it is that the argument of 1,200 Afro-Guyanese men “disappearing” or being the subjects of extrajudicial killings actually forms the basis of fact, do not use yourself as the authoritative source.
Compile your list and do not waver. Show us, the young people whose vote you will clamour for at the end of this year, that you are worthy to be believed and that your word is your bond.
Dispute the 420 people whom Stabroek News put together in the dossier and point us in the direction of the more than 700 others that you assert were the victims of,
in some way or other, politically-supported annihilation.
The young people of this country, especially those of African descent, can no longer be misled. The power of the internet no longer allows us to.
Finally, I want to condemn the attempts I have seen on Sankar for his bravery to ask, albeit vehemently, for a detailed breakdown of the numbers that appear to be inflated.
I have seen him being called all kinds of names for being an Indo-Guyanese and for looking into this matter as intently as he has. Well, I hope that this letter disabuses the mind of anyone with the notion that as an Indo-Guyanese, he should not be as interested as he is in this matter.
He is not alone, and I am asking, as a young man of African descent, for the substantiation of the numbers presented to this country.
It is time we put to rest, once and for all, this continuous reopening of the wound caused by this dreaded period of our country’s history. It is time that we allow the souls of those to get the respite they deserve, and for the families to find solace in the undisputed conclusion of this matter.
Let’s start by underscoring that the numbers matter.
Yours sincerely, Shaquawn Gill
What Dr Stanley Paul must understand about the anti-oil lobby
DR Stanley Paul has inserted more commonsense, apart from intellectual analysis, into the argument for Guyana not taking the road of confrontation with ExxonMobil over contract renegotiation.
But Dr Paul’s response to a letter written by a gentleman who signed his name as Mohamed Zafar and stated his designation as a barrister in Canada, was not forceful enough.
Mr Zafar opined that “a democratically credentialed Guyanese leader in power cannot ignore the will or desires of the people on the 2016 PSA.”
That correspondence in the Stabroek News of January 11, 2025, is so mediocre in a basic understanding of traditional and fundamental political theory, that I thought Dr Paul would have demolished it with instant flippancy.
Dr Paul instead dignified Zafar’s poor approach to political theory and in the process makes the reader feel that Mr Zafar made a plausible contribution to the contract renegotiation exchange.
Dr Paul in praising Zafar’s entry into the debate wrote the following: “Mr Zafar presents a compelling argument regarding the role of “a democratically credentialed leader” in responding to the will and desires of the people.”
I beg to disagree and I am unrestrained in my view that Mr Zafar lacks familiarity with how an elected government leader responds to the things a society wants. In ancient society such as the Greek city-states with their small populations, it was easy to gauge what a society wants, as Socrates did.
In the 21st century, it is almost impossible to determine what the priorities of
the population are when those priorities exist in a competitive mode. The most reliable source of what a nation wants from its head of government is a tight scientific poll.
It is outrageous to claim as Zafar did that the Guyanese population wants a renegotiation of the ExxonMobil contract. Where did he get that information from? The whole world knows where he got it from – the anti-oil lobby, but let’s stick with what the citizenry wants.
Here is what I would suggest: organise a number of symposia in Regions Two, Three, Four, Five and Six. But the best mind that argues for demanding contract renegotiation and put the Attorney-General to explain what will happen to Guyana if ExxonMobil refuses to negotiate, and seek sanctions against Guyana and perambulate the corridors of power in the hegemonic countries of the West, then ask the audience to vote for or against contract renegotiation. I and the whole of Guyana know what will be the result.
What Dr Paul should do in the coming days is simply ask Mr Zafar how he knows that Guyanese want a forced contract renegotiation. Where was the poll on that? Who measured the will of the people on that, so Mr Zafar could conclude that President Ali should listen to the people?
Dr Paul did educate Mr Zafar on political theory through his elucidation on the responsibilities of a head of government. An elected leader has to look at the international consequences of domestic policies and make hard choices.
The perfect example is Uganda that tabled legislation to execute convicted homosexuals. Uganda began to face enormous sanctions from the West and the World Bank that it has backed down
on the death penalty for homosexuality. It is arid thinking to demand that a democratic leader has no space to manoeuvre and must abide by what sections of the population demand. Such an approach to the exercise of power is infantile.
All elected leaders in normal societies will not accede to any and every demand made upon it. They will argue that in not acceding to the demands they are protecting the integrity of governance.
I began this article by noting that Dr Paul has injected commonsense into the debate. He has articulated the danger of geopolitical backlash should small states confront hegemonic power. The term commonsense is apt because if you read the totality of criticisms against the government for not seeking renegotiation, not one of them brings in the geopolitical dimension.
Don’t take my word for it; read every article urging the government to drag ExxonMobil to the table and you will see not one of them recognises the international implications for Guyana. The latest is the Monday edition of the Stabroek News which shouts loudly for renegotiation and there isn’t even one line on the danger lurking.
Finally, I would urge Dr Paul to continue to confront the mediocrity in the anti-oil lobby’s demand for contract renegotiation.
Dr Paul needs to understand as he continues to write that this anti-oil lobby is not an intellectual force, but a plain, naked, anti-government bandwagon.
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.
E-litigation system revolutionising country’s judiciary
By Feona Morrison
GUYANA’S judiciary has undergone a significant transformation through the implementation of a complete e-litigation system, resulting in enhanced efficiency, transparency, and accessibility in the administration of justice.
The Acting Chief Justice emphasised the benefits of this ground-breaking initiative during the 2025 Law Year opening ceremonies at the Georgetown Victoria Law Courts on Tuesday. Implemented last year, the e-litigation system aims to fully digitise all facets of the judicial process, encompassing the submission of legal documentation, case tracking, and judgment delivery.
Designed to alleviate the chronic delays and inefficiencies long associated with the traditional paper-based system, this digital platform has already garnered significant attention for its innovative approach. “Our first major win in the implementation of the [Supreme Court’s Strategic Plan 2024-2031] has been the successful roll out of the e-litigation system for the Court of Appeal, the Full Court and the High Court,” said Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George-Wiltshire, SC.
She stated that the e-litigation system was introduced for the Court of Appeal on January 30, 2024. By December 31, 2024, a total of 311 appeals and applications had been filed through the e-litigation portal. She reported that the e-litigation system was implemented for the Full Court and High Court across all three counties—Essequibo, Berbice, and Demerara—on October 4, 2024. Justice George-Wiltshire stated, “From October
4 to December 31, 2024, 37 appeals were filed in the Full Court, and 1,637 cases were filed in the High Court.”
These are categorised as follows: 1,373 cases in Demerara, 377 cases in Berbice, and 76 cases in Essequibo.
GREATER
INTEGRATION OF ADR
Acknowledging the high volume of case filings, the Chief Justice once again encouraged individuals to settle disputes through alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods, such as mediation and restorative justice.
Last year, a total of 19 judicial officers were appointed, comprising 10 High Court judges and nine magistrates.
“Despite the increase in the number of judicial officers, the court system cannot realistically conduct trials in every case or deliver judgment within the four-month timeframe prescribed by law [Time Limit for Judicial Decisions Act] due to the heavy caseload dealt with by each civil judge,” she emphasised.
GAMECHANGER
Despite ongoing minor issues, Justice George-Wiltshire boasted that the transition to the e-litigation system has been a “seamless game-changer for the administration of justice.”
The legal fraternity has largely welcomed the new system, lauding it as a step forward in enhancing judicial efficiency. Attorneys-at-law have highlighted how the e-litigation platform has reduced their workloads and improved access to case-related information.
Moreover, one of the
most significant benefits of the e-litigation system is its potential to enhance access to justice, particularly for individuals in remote areas. She said lawyers and litigants alike, as well as judicial officers and the staff at the various courts registries, have adapted to the new system with enthusiasm. “Since November 2024, lawyers have been able to file from their offices and have been filing at a phenomenal rate. Self-represented litigants will continue to file through service bureaus and lawyers can access the bureaus for assistance.”
She noted that the ad-hoc committee of the Rules Committee is currently reviewing the Civil Procedure Rules to ensure they are aligned with the new e-litigation system.
She accepted that one of the challenges has been the issuance of court orders, stating: “We are actively working to ensure the timely issuance of court orders. However, we have reverted to lawyers being responsible for producing draft orders for approval by the judges. [Once approved], the orders can be uploaded to the [e-litigation] portal either by the lawyers or the registry.”
The Chief Justice highlighted that the e-litigation platform provides several features designed to improve judicial efficiency. These include the automatic assignment of cases to judges, email notifications for judges, lawyers, and litigants, as well as the ability for judges to track their case-disposition rates and assess the ratio of filed cases to those completed.
“It can generate detailed reports, enabling a more accurate measurement of the performance of the Supreme
–– Chief Justice hails it as a ‘seamless game-changer for the administration of justice’
Court. These capabilities will support improved planning and budgeting for the judiciary as more data is generated and analysed,” she added. In the criminal jurisdiction, she revealed that the filing of indictments—a formal charge or accusation of a serious crime—on the portal is set to begin in the first quarter of 2025. The draft Criminal Procedure Rules have been finalised and are awaiting review by the Rules Committee.
Justice George-Wiltshire noted: “These rules will provide for more robust case management and greater efficiency in the adjudication of criminal cases, with the overriding objective of having cases dealt with in a very timely manner.”
OTHER DEVELOPMENTS
She emphasised that the Supreme Court has bolstered its Verbatim Court Reporting Unit as part of its efforts to move away from relying on manually taken trial notes by judicial officers as the official court record.
While it is still a work in progress, she said the system is designed to serve the Court of Appeal, Full Court, High Court, and numerous magistrate’s courts. Both audio and written transcripts are now accessible, reducing the need to solely rely on notes taken
by judicial officers, particularly for cases of national interest, Justice George-Wiltshire added.
She noted that some judicial officers are utilising the artificial intelligence feature of Zoom to assist with court records, though it is not considered the official record.
While still “a work in progress,” she stated that the case-management system for the magistrate’s courts will continue to be implemented throughout this year. Additionally, to further enhance efficiency in court administration, she said, “We are establishing
electronic human resources and inventory management systems.” In closing, the Chief Justice extended gratitude to several stakeholders who contributed to the integration of technology into the court system. In addition to the Chief Justice, attendees included members of the diplomatic corps, judges of the High Court and Court of Appeal, magistrates, Solicitor General Nigel Hawke, President of the Bar Association of Guyana, Kamal Ramkarran and other members of the Bar.
Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George-Wiltshire, SC.
Steps taken to relocate Dorcas Club Nursery School children
amid infrastructural concerns over facility that was being rented, Education Ministry says
OWING to the discovery of a highly unsafe environment for both teachers and children in a building that was being rented for the Dorcas Club Nursery School, the Ministry of Education has made alternative arrangements for a relocation
According to the Ministry of Education, this decision was taken after the facility was found to have serious infrastructur-
al issues in August 2024, posing safety risks to both pupils and teachers.
The landlady has not addressed the concerns and has not given any indication when those would be addressed, the ministry said.
“To ensure the safety of the 59 registered children and their teachers, an alternative solution was initially identified at a nearby nursery school with available space,”
the Education Ministry added.
However, a closer review of the registration revealed that only 16 of the 59 children are from the Dorcas Club catchment area, while the remaining 43 children reside within the catchment areas of seven other nursery schools nearby.
This means that the Dorcas School is actually further away from their homes than the schools
they now occupy.
Following two consultations with parents, it was decided that the 43 children residing outside the Dorcas Club catchment area would be placed in the nursery school closest to their homes.
For the 16 children from the Dorcas Club catchment area, recommendations were made to transfer them to suitable nursery schools nearer to their home addresses.
“To ease the transition, all receiving schools have indicated their capacity to receive these pupils, and have agreed and are willing to accept the children in their current Dorcas Club uniforms, ensuring that parents incur no additional expenses,” the Education Ministry said.
The ministry said it is committed to engaging parents further and will host another meeting
to provide updates and address any remaining concerns.
“The Ministry of Education remains dedicated to the safety and well-being of every child and appreciates the cooperation of parents and guardians as we work to ensure the continued provision of quality education in safe and conducive environments,” the ministry said.
New $700M water treatment plant aligns with Guyana’s vision for inclusive development
–– says Housing Minister
By Cindy Parkinson-Chowbay
THE Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, has officially commissioned the $700 million New Caledonia water treatment plant, a facility designed to provide clean, reliable, and safe water to approximately 12,000 to 14,000 residents in the region. Speaking at the event, Minister Croal described the project as a transformative step in improving public health, sanitation, and overall living standards for Guyanese citizens.
“This plant will play a pivotal role in supporting industries and households and contributing to the development and sustainability of our nation,” Minister Croal stated. He emphasised the government’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG6), which seeks to ensure access to water and sanitation for all by 2030.
The People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government aims to achieve this target by 2025.
The New Caledonia water treatment plant is one of seven modern facilities being constructed nationwide as part of a broader strategy to ensure inclusive and sustainable advancement in Guyana.
“Over the past four and a half years, we have made significant strides in the housing, infrastructure, and water sectors,” Minister Croal said, highlighting the importance of continuity and leadership that prioritises the well-being of all Guyanese citizens.
Commitment to Development
Minister Croal underscored the government’s achievements, noting that over $50 billion has been invested in the water sector over the past four years. In 2024 alone, the government’s allocation of $23 billion for the water sector is double the total investment made during the APNU+AFC administration’s tenure from 2015 to 2020.
“We believe in action and not just words, and this plant is proof of what can be accomplished with contributions, commitment, and hard
work,” he said.
In addition to the New Caledonia plant, the PPP/C government has successfully drilled or is nearing completion on 28 coastland wells, including three designated for Caledonia and Grove. These efforts aim to meet the growing demand for potable water, spurred by increased housing developments and population growth.
Minister Croal highlighted the government’s forward-thinking approach, with plans for a second phase of water sector development to accommodate new housing areas. This includes tapping into freshwater sources, such as the conservancy on the East Bank of Demerara, mirroring similar initiatives at the Hope Canal on the East Coast of Demerara.
Addressing residents of Caledonia and surrounding areas, Minister Croal expressed gratitude for their patience during the construction phase. “This plant belongs to you. Together, we are building a Guyana where every family, every home, and every community
Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, stands in front of the stateof-the-art Caledonia Water Treatment Plant that marks a significant step in improving access to clean, reliable water for thousands of residents
has access to clean, usable water,” he said.
The New Caledonia water treatment plant stands
as a testament to the PPP/C government’s dedication to fulfilling its promises and advancing the quality of
life for all citizens, ensuring that clean water becomes a reality for every household in Guyana.
January Demerara Criminal Assizes opens with 134 cases
THE Demerara Criminal Assizes of January, 2025, formally commenced on Tuesday with a ceremonial opening at the Demerara High Court.
The event, which marked the start of a new legal term, featured the inspection of a Guard of Honour by the Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards.
The Chancellor
was accompanied by Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George-Wiltshire, SC, judges of the High Court and Court of Appeal, magistrates, and members of the Bar.
The customary ceremonial aspect began with the Guyana Police Force (GPF) forming a Guard of Honour in front of the High Court building. Dressed in their ceremonial uniforms, officers stood in formation as Chancellor
Cummings-Edwards, resplendent in her judicial robe, carried out the inspection. The ceremonial opening was attended by a cross-section of society, including government officials, members of the Guyana Bar Association and representatives of civil society. Among those present were members of the diplomatic corps, Solicitor General Nigel Hawke and President
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Scenes from the ceremonial opening of the Demerara January 2025 Criminal Assizes (Delano Williams photos)
January Demerara Criminal...
FROM PAGE 12
of the Bar Association of Guyana, Kamal Ramkarran.
This year’s Assizes will see the hearing of 134 criminal cases, including matters related to murder, sexual offences, manslaughter and other serious crimes.
The panel of judges assigned to preside over the sessions includes Justices Navindra Singh, Jo-Ann Barlow, Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, Zamilla Ally-Seepaul and Damone Younge.
The first criminal trials for this term are expected to commence later this week.
The term “assize” (plural: “assizes”) refers to a court that historically convened
peri odically in each county of England and Wales to administer both civil and criminal law. As a historical term, it specifically refers to certain courts in England and France. This practice, which originated in England, was adopted by Guyana during its time as a British colony. It became part of the country’s common law and was later codified into its legislation. In Guyana, assizes are held in the three counties of Demerara, Essequibo, and Berbice. There are four assizes for the year in the county of Demerara and three assizes each in the counties of Berbice and Essequibo.
Local Content Secretariat aims to operationalise mobile app next month
- Dr. Pertab announces
By Shamar Meusa
IN a bid to further connect local suppliers with oil and gas companies, the Local Content Secretariat is hopeful of operationalising a mobile application in February.
This was according to Director of the Local Content Secretariat, Dr. Martin Pertab during the Ministry of Natural Resources’ 2024 end-of-year review, on Tuesday.
Dr. Pertab said that while the mobile application (app) is something that has been in the media since last
year, it is something that they have been working on, and for there to be a finished product, it has to go through several iterations of testing.
As such, he revealed, “So far we have received approval from the App Store, we are working on the approval for the Google Play Store and we are in the final stage of testing. So, hopefully we will have this app launched at the upcoming energy conference.”
Adding to this, Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat said that they
want to ensure that when the app is released that there are no issues with it and it is fully registered for the end users.
He noted that the app will be available for anyone with a smartphone; however, only those who are registered and have a local content certificate will be able to access certain capabilities and carry out certain operations.
“So, everyone can access it, you can see when there are jobs or vacancies available, you can see when companies are requesting goods and services but
Director of the Local Content Secretariat, Dr. Martin Pertab (Delano Williams photo)
only those with local content certificates and are registered –that is the Guyanese companies, can actually access the portals,” Bharrat said.
At that time, he indicated that many times locals would have difficulties accessing information about the available opportunities in the oil and gas sector.
The app is hailed as another important element of the secretariat’s drive to prioritise Guyanese nationals and companies to enable local capacity development.
At the 2024 Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, Dr Pertab announced that the local content secretariat was developing the local content app with an aim of better connecting local companies with the oil and gas sector and enhancing job access.
Pigeon infestation causes suspension of classes at Charlestown Secondary School
THE Ministry of Education has advised students, parents, teachers, and other stakeholders that, owing to reports of a pigeon infestation at Charlestown Secondary School, classes have been suspended for the remainder of the week to address the issue.
The ministry said it remains committed to providing a safe and healthy learning environment for all students and teachers.
Surplus milk production at GSA set to hit local markets
By Cindy Parkinson-Chowbay
THE growing focus on local production in Guyana has paved the way for significant advancements in agriculture, with the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) playing a pivotal role.
CEO Gavin Ramnarine has commended President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha for their dedication to fostering agricultural development and creating opportunities for young people nationwide.
merara,” Ramnarine said. “There is a market for people who prefer raw cow milk that is not treated. The cows at GSA are well cared for, and the quality of milk is second to none. With an extremely high fat content, this milk will soon be available for purchase at GSA’s market centre.”
To ensure a steady supply of milk, discussions are underway with the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) to enhance GSA’s cow herd.
––
Gov’t supports regional and local students at GSA
GOVERNMENT SUPPORT
GSA’s mission extends beyond production to education, equipping students with essential agricultural skills that benefit their families and communities. Ramnarine noted that approximately 10 per cent of GSA’s 2024 intake comprises students from CARICOM countries, with nine students from Grenada receiving government sponsorship to pursue agricultural education in Guyana.
“These students have already begun implementing what they’ve learned back home during their Christmas visits. With the continued support of the government, we aim to increase CARICOM student enrollment in 2025.”
“Our government’s proactive approach in both Guyana and the Caribbean is making a real difference. Minister Mustapha has gone above and beyond to meet the institution’s needs, enabling students to achieve their full potential and contribute to regional food security,” Ramnarine said.
Speaking to the Guyana Chronicle, Ramnarine highlighted GSA’s rich history in producing a range of self-sustaining goods, including porridge mixes, flours, all-purpose sauces, eggs, meat, and dairy products. The institution is currently experiencing a surplus of milk, which it plans to market as raw, unpasteurised milk.
This initiative aligns with the government’s efforts to reduce the region’s dependency on imports while bolstering local production.
“Currently, we are supplying some temples on the East Coast of De-
EMPOWERING STUDENTS THROUGH
“The Grenadian government has expressed gratitude for our efforts,” Ramnarine shared.
Minister Mustapha’s commitment to youth empowerment and food security has been instrumental in these efforts. According to Ramnarine, the Minister consistently ensures that students are well-equipped to secure employment or further their education upon graduation.
The GSA’s ongoing efforts, supported by the government, reflect a unified strategy to strengthen agriculture, create jobs, and empower young people across Guyana and the Caribbean.
CEO of GSA, Gavin Ramnarine
Regional Division Seven reports significant reduction in crime, traffic accidents
–– Commissioner Hicken promotes four ranks during engagement
POLICE Commander
for Regional Division #7, Senior Superintendent Dion Moore, announced a 42.6 per cent reduction in serious crimes over the two-year period of 2023-2024 and a 29 per cent decrease in traffic accidents in 2024 compared to the previous year.
These achievements were disclosed during a meeting with Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken and the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) Executive Leadership Team, including Deputy Commissioners Ravindradat Budhram, Errol Watts, Wendell Blanhum, and Simon McBean.
The meeting, part of Commissioner Hicken’s ongoing initiative to engage all ranks of the GPF, focused on assessing progress, addressing challenges, and charting the way forward for 2025 and beyond. Senior Superintendent Moore and his team were commended for their exceptional efforts in crime prevention, traffic management, and community engagement, which contributed to the significant improvements in Regional Division #7.
Commissioner Hicken highlighted the GPF’s 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, built on six key pillars: infrastructure, human resource development, performance, professionalism and accountability, operations, and partnerships. He emphasised the
importance of fostering strong police-community relationships to enhance trust, collaboration, and public safety.
During the session, Commissioner Hicken encouraged officers to prioritise community-oriented policing, modernise practices, and uphold integrity and professionalism. He also stressed the importance of discipline and the consequences of misconduct. To illustrate the force’s strategic direction, the Commissioner engaged ranks in discussions about the six pillars and their relevance to policing in Guyana.
Deputy Commissioners McBean, Watts, Blanhum, and Budhram echoed these messages, sharing their experiences and urging ranks to remain professional, committed, and steadfast in their duty to serve and protect.
In recognition of outstanding service, Commissioner Hicken promoted four ranks on the spot.
Woman Corporal Shereen Sealey was elevated to Sergeant, while Woman Constable Tanesha Johnson was promoted to Corporal. Constables Obadiah Solomon and Alf Wilson were both advanced to the rank of Lance Corporal.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to professionalism, community engagement, and continuous improvement within the GPF.
Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken (seated centre), flanked by GPF Executive Leadership Team, including Deputy Commissioners Ravindradat Budhram, Errol Watts, Wendell Blanhum, and Simon McBean, along with ranks of the division
IICA to foster partnership with European agency on nuclear technology use in agriculture
–– participate in a global food forum, along with ministers from the sector
THE Director General of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), Manuel Otero, will commence a working visit to Europe, where he will build on the Institute’s joint work with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and will participate in one of the primary global discussion forums on agriculture and food.
Otero will sign a memorandum of understanding in Vienna to foster the development of projects in-
volving nuclear technology use in agriculture, in a bid to contribute to food security and more sustainable production practices. The agreement will facilitate the expansion of joint IAEA-IICA efforts in areas such as soil and water management,
plant genetics, animal production and health, quality control and food security.
Otero will also visit the Headquarters of the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) on the outskirts of the Austrian capital, where
The Director General of IICA, Manuel Otero, and Germany’s Minister of Agriculture and Food, Cem Özdemir, will meet at the Global Forum on Food and Agriculture (GFFA) in Berlin and will jointly launch the Institute’s photo exhibition, ‘Leaders of Rurality of the Americas: Custodians of Food Security and Biodiversity’
he will meet with Hans Joachim Schellnhuber and Karen Lips, the Director General and Deputy Director General, respectively, of the multidisciplinary scientific research organisation.
IIASA, which is governed by a Council consisting of representatives of its Member States (which include Brazil and the United States), utilises system analysis to develop solutions aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of human activities and contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
GLOBAL FORUM
In Berlin, Otero— along with Advisor to the General Directorate, Jorge Werthein, and the Manager of IICA’s Innovation and Bio-economy program, Hugo Chavarría—will participate in the Global Forum for Food and Agriculture (GFFA).
The event is organised by the German government and brings together government officials, members of international organisations, business leaders and experts from around the world to discuss the strengthening of agri-food systems.
The forum also hosts the Agriculture Ministers
Conference, the largest of its kind in the world, which routinely attracts approximately 70 ministers. Cem Özdemir, Minister of Agriculture and Food of Germany, will preside over this year’s forum, which will focus on the Bio-economy.
Otero will be the moderator of one of the high-level discussions in which various countries will share their experiences and exchange best practices with respect to sustainable biomass production. Along with ministers from Latin America, Africa, Asia and Europe, he will also be a speaker in a plenary session that will focus on enhancing global collaboration to improve the sustainability of agriculture as a pillar of the bio-economy.
As part of the forum, IICA will also mount its photo exhibition “Leaders of Rurality of the Americas: Custodians of Food Security and Biodiversity” in Berlin, which will showcase the daily work of farmers who were recognised by the Institute for their contribution to food security, environmental conservation and the well-being of their communities.
The German minister will join Otero in officially opening the exhibition at the main venue of the event. (IICA)
‘Body cams’ to bolster accountability within Police Force
IN light of the deployment of traffic ranks equipped with bodypack cameras, sensational claims are being made on social media by errant motorists accusing traffic officers of unwarranted stops.
The Traffic Department of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has clarified that all stops are made on a lawful basis, either due to an offence being committed in full view of the police or based on reasonable suspicion of such an offence.
According to the GPF, stops conducted under these circumstances are lawful, and appropriate actions, such as the issuing of tickets or laying charges, follow. Traffic ranks have quickly adapted to using body- pack cameras, which have proven invaluable in enhancing accountability and service delivery.
During the period from January 5 to January 11, 2025, traffic enforcement yielded significant results, with 2,847 cases recorded. These included 347 tickets issued for exceeding the speed limit, 125 persons charged for failure to wear seatbelts, and 14 drivers charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, one of whom recorded a reading of 130 micrograms from two samples taken. Additionally, 310 cases involved the prohibition of tinted glass on front windshields, 156 motorcyclists were ticketed for failing to wear safety helmets, and 22 cases were related to faulty packing of loads. Furthermore, there were 74 cases of unlighted motor vehicles at the front, 63 at the rear, and 146 breaches of prescribed fitness conditions involving coloured lights.
These enforcement exercises, the traffic department noted are conducted daily, focusing on
violations that significantly impact road safety and contribute to serious injuries or fatalities.
Ranks are briefed to act professionally and within the law when offences are observed or suspected.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND EDUCATION
In addition to enforcement efforts, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has prioritised road safety education through a series of lectures and media programmes conducted from January 6 to 11, 2025.
Driver lectures were held at various locations, including Sherima Police Station Compound, Robb Street, East La Penitence Police Station, Alberttown Police Station, Double D Taxi Service at Eccles Public Road, Sheriff Street, Acquero Police Station in Region #18, Supenaam Waterfront Speed Boat Stelling, Rupert Craig Highway and U.G Access Road, Mahdia Taxi Park, Demico in Central Georgetown, Camp and Brickdam, and Carifesta Avenue in Georgetown.
Lectures targeting bar patrons were hosted at Palm Court, Tribe Bar, and Superbet on Nelson Mandela Avenue. Additionally, road safety messages were broadcast on Linden’s 104.3 FM, extending the reach of the campaign to a broader audience.
COMMITMENT TO ROAD SAFETY
The GPF has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing road safety and reducing accidents. Daily efforts are being made to target offences with the potential for severe consequences, aiming to create safer roadways for all Guyanese.
Motorists are encour-
aged to adhere to traffic regulations and cooperate with officers to ensure mutual safety and accountability.
The GPF continues to urge the public to view these measures as a collaborative effort to improve the safety and well-being of all roadusers.
–– protect ranks amid surges in violations by road users
Traffic ranks explain to drivers in the police station the impact of using the roads safely and how serious injuries or fatalities will be prevented if motorists adhere to traffic regulations
National basketball team down to 15 after intense trials
AFTER two gruelling days of trials at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, the Guyana National Basketball Team has been narrowed down to 15 players, signalling the first step towards a critical international campaign.
Head Coach Adrian Hooper, alongside assistant coach Marlon Rodrigues, has the challenging task of leading this talented squad to the Nations Cup tournament in Paramaribo, Suriname, from January 24–27. There, Guyana will square off against Suriname and Grenada in what the Guyana Basketball Federation promises to be an exciting start to the year.
The shortlisted players include Stanton Rose (Untouchables), Orlan Glasgow (Royals), Harold Adams (Royals), Travis Belgrave (Eagles), Nikkoloi Smith (Ravens), Domair Gladstone (Untouchables), Shane Webster (Colts), Jermaine Slater (Kobras), Denzel Ross (Eagles), Oquacey Shortt (Colts), Kimol Grimmond (Untouchables), Zian Gray (Eagles), Jushawn Bayley, Yannick Tappin (Royals), and Shamaar Huntley (Ravens).
Initially, 23 players were invited to trials, making the final selection process an exceptionally competitive one.
Reflecting on the trials, Coach Hooper said, “These two days have been intense. The players brought their A-game, making my job of narrowing down the roster extremely difficult. But that’s a good problem to have. It shows the depth of talent we have in Guyana.”
The selection is far from over, however. The team will undergo two more training sessions this week before the final 12 players are announced on Friday.
“We’re committed to se -
lecting the best-possible team, not just to compete, but to win,” Hooper added. “I’m confident that when we regroup this weekend and head to Suriname, these players will be ready to give their all and make Guyana proud.”
The tournament in Suriname holds immense significance, not just for the players but also for the broader basketball community in Guyana.
Michael Singh, President of the GBF, expressed his excitement for the Nations Cup, emphasising its importance as a developmental and preparatory event.
This tour is the start of early preparations for our national team, and it provides an excellent opportunity to measure the standard of our local game,” Singh said. “By focusing on our locally based players for this tournament, we aim to identify and develop talent here at home, giving them the exposure needed to compete at the international level. This approach will allow us to integrate overseas-based players into future engagements with a stronger foundation.”
Singh also highlighted the impact of the ongoing One Guyana Premier Basketball League, adding that “Our players have been competing at a high level domestically, and this has pro-
vided the GBF with a robust pool of talent to work with. The Nations Cup will give us valuable insights into how our local players match up against regional competition.”
The Nations Cup serves as a critical step in Guyana’s preparations to defend their title at the Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) Championship, with Singh revealing that the GBF is planning its own version of the Nations Cup in May, with three other CBC teams competing in Guyana.
“This year promises to be one of the most active and exciting periods for Guyana’s National Basketball Team,” Singh said. “We’re eager to see how this team performs and how these tournaments will shape the future of basketball in our country.”
Both Singh and Coach Hooper believes that the Nations Cup will undoubtedly test Senior Men’s Team as they prepare for back-to-back games against regional rivals.
According to Hooper, with a mix of veteran leadership and emerging talent, Guyana is poised to make a strong statement in Paramaribo, and the players are eager to seize the opportunity to represent their nation on the international stage.
Terrence Ali National Open Championships set for this weekend
SERVING as both the culmination of the 2024 and commencement of the 2025 seasons, respectively, the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) will stage the Terrence Ali National Open Championships from Friday, January 17-19, at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue.
The event, which was postponed from its initial start date of December 12, 2024, is expected to feature participation from notable gyms such as the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), the Guyana Police Force, Young Achievers, Pace and Power, Forgotten Youth Founda -
tion, Rose Hall, the Andrew Lewis Gym, Pocket Rocket, New Amsterdam Academy, Vergenoegen, and Republicans.
Among the notable names that will enter the squared circle are world-rated pugilists Desmond Amsterdam and Abiola Jackman, as well as Colin Lewis.
The tournament , which is the most important competition on the sport’s local calendar, will be the first major championship under the GBA umbrella since the unexpected passing of the entity’s long-serving technical director, Terrence Poole, on October 3rd, 2024
It will also be the first tournament for the GDF without the services of Poole, who served in the capacity of head trainer and was directly responsible for their overall dominance on the local circuit. This will be a major angle and talking point as to whether the GDF can maintain its hegemonic status.
GBA President Steve Ninvalle said, “As the most important local event in our discipline, the Terrence Ali National Open Championships has the distinct honour of serving as the conclusion of the 2024 season and the beginning of the 2025 calendar of activities. The
Alfred to compete at Bislett, BAUHAUS Galan events
ORGANISERS of the Wanda Diamond League have announced that Olympic 100m champion Julien Alfred will compete in the Bislett Games in Oslo and BAUHAUS Galan in Stockholm in 2025.
The 23-year- old Alfred won gold and added a silver in the 200 metres at the Paris Olympics, before sweeping to the 100m series title last year at the final in Brussels.
The St Lucian will be hoping to defend her Diamond Trophy in 2025,
with Oslo and Stockholm providing two early opportunities to get points on the board on the road to this year’s final in Zurich.
Alfred will compete at BAUHAUS Galan in the Swedish capital on June 12, before taking the train with fellow athletes across the border to Norway for the Bislett Games on June 15.
“Visiting the Scandinavian countries is one of my dreams. I look forward to feeling the hospitality from the Scandinavian spectators and hope to live up to the standard of these two meetings and to give
them a memorable performance,” Alfred said.
She added that Diamond League appearances against the world’s best athletes would be crucial as she sets her sights on a first outdoor world title at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo in September.
“The upcoming Diamond League season is very important, because I won’t be having any trials for the World Championships. So, I hope these races put me closer to my goals for Japan,” Alfred said.
championship has historically functioned as a link or conduit between amateur and professional competitions, and its significance has appropriately increased with each iteration, given that it showcases the best of Guyana and provides an insight into our current and near future in the amateur or potential professional ranks.”
According to Ninvalle, “In [the ] light of coach Terrence Poole’s recent death in October 2024, one of the main topics that will be covered and examined during the tournament is whether GDF can continue to dom-
inate. Although everyone has experienced loss, boxing is a competitive sport where losing a coach can be especially distressing In contrast to team sports, where established roles offer a structure for continuity, boxing is often based on the intensely intimate and frequently complex bond between a trainer and his fighters. In addition to being a strategist, the coach serves as a confidante, mentor, source of inspiration, and objective critical eye.”
Ninvalle added, “Unquestionably, behind the success of every champion
or successful pugilist is a dedicated team, and the coach is the central figure of that group and, in this case, the person who engineered their success. Terrence Poole has guided the GDF to the top in his time. We will have to see how current champions carry on from here.”
The National Open will commence at 7pm each evening . The boxers will weigh in tomorrow (Thursday) at the same venue.
Julien Alfred
Archery Guyana makes history with physiotherapist at ‘nationals’
FOR the first time in the history of Archery Guyana, a professional physiotherapist was present at the Archery ‘Nationals,’ providing essential support to athletes during the prestigious event.
This ground-breaking initiative, organised by Archery Guyana, is a testament to the federation’s commitment to athletes’ wellness and high-performance standards.
This historic collaboration was made possible, thanks to the invaluable support of Ms Vanessa Wickham, the National Sports Clinic and Dr
Ariane Mangar of the Ministry of Health.
Physiotherapist Stowell Barry, a skilled professional with a passion for sports therapy, delivered tailored treatments to the athletes, ensuring their optimal performance and minimising injury risks.
“We are thrilled to have taken this important step forward in athlete care,” said President Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon of Archery Guyana.
“This initiative underscores our dedication to supporting our athletes both on and off the field. Special thanks go to Ms Vanessa Wickham, Dr
Ariane Mangar and the Ministry of Health for making this possible. We also commend the exceptional work of physiotherapist Stowell Barry, who
played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of this initiative.”
Wickham said, "The essential role of the physiotherapist in sport is critical at
all levels. Our goal is to provide the best treatment and rehabilitation of injuries to athletes pre, post and during competition and to provide
performance support through injury prevention, maintenance and recovery interventions.
“The National Sports Clinic commits to working with Archery Guyana and we are excited to be a part of this great collaboration.
“Archery Guyana remains committed to further integrating sports science into its programmes. By continuously enhancing support for athletes, the federation is paving the way for greater achievements in the sport, both locally and internationally.”
Vanessa Wickham
King to officiate at U19 Women’s T20 World Cup
CMC – FORMER West Indies fast bowler Reon King headlines a trio of umpires from the region who will officiate in the upcoming ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup.
The 49-year-old King, a Guyanese who played 19 Tests and 50 One Day Internationals for the regional side will serve as a match referee, while Trinidad and Tobago’s Candace La Borde and Maria Abbott of St Vincent & the Grenadines have been named as umpires.
They are among 20 officials appointed by the ICC for the tournament, which will run from January 18 to February 2.
La Borde, officiated the semifinals and final of the 2023 U19 T20 World Cup, while Abbott is the first qualified Vincentian female umpire.
Sean Easey, ICC’s senior manager in charge of umpires and referees, praised the diversity of the appointed officials and expressed confidence in their abilities to perform at a high level.
“Congratulations to the umpires and match referees who have been selected for this event. These individuals have earned selection by performing well in bilateral cricket. It is a wonderfully diverse group, just like the game that they represent,” Easey said.
“Similar to the players at this event, these officials have been identified as having high potential. We are confident that they will perform well and that some will progress to officiate at
Reon King will serve as a match referee at the ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup in Malaysia
the higher levels of the game,” he added.
Umpires: Ashlee Gibbons (Australia), Shathira Jakir Jessy (Bangladesh), Gayathri Venugopalan (India), Narayanan Janani (India), Aidan Seaver (Ireland), Nitin Bathi (Netherlands),
Rizwan Akram (Netherlands), Rahul Asher (Oman), Saleema Imtiaz (Pakistan), Shivani Mishra (Qatar), Kerrin Klaaste (South Africa), Dedunu De Silva (Sri Lanka), Vijaya Prakash Mallela (USA), Candace La Borde (West Indies), Maria Abbott (West Indies), Forster Mutizwa (Zimbabwe).
Match referees: David Gilbert (Australia), Dean Cosker (England), Trudy Anderson (New Zealand), Reon King (West Indies).
Guyana to host General Assembly for Caribbean National Olympic Committees
IN a significant development for regional sports governance, the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) has been officially selected to host the XIV Annual Workshop and XXIII Annual General Assembly of the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC) on 18 and 19 October, 2025.
This decision was made during the first executive meeting for 2025, convened via Zoom on January 10.
The GOA's successful bid was bolstered by its im-
pressive track record of hosting major events, along with state-of-the-art facilities and a rich cultural backdrop.
The association emphasised its commitment to providing a memorable experience for CANOC members
and delegates, underlining the full support of the Guyana government and local stakeholders.
In their bid, the GOA articulated that hosting these annual events offers a vital opportunity to strengthen collaboration with government bodies, NGOs, sponsors, and the broader sporting community in Guyana.
The Local Organising Committee (LOC) will leverage this occasion to highlight the nation's dedication to sports development and international partnership.
The Pegasus Hotel and Suites has been designated as the official accommodation for delegates, as both the Workshop and General Assembly will take place at this venue.
The CANOC executive expressed gratitude to the GOA for stepping forward to host the Caribbean National Olympic Committees (NOC) and Commonwealth Games Associations (CGA). They assured the GOA of their support in planning and executing the upcoming events.
The GOA is optimistic
that the assembly will offer delegates a rich and unforgettable experience, aligning with Guyana's commitment to service excellence and the advancement of Caribbean sports.
CANOC members are encouraged to fully support the GOA in its preparations for the XIV CANOC Workshop and XXIII General Assembly. This event promises to further the organisation's ethos of ‘Beyond Possible,’ enhancing continental and global sporting excellence.
GBA focus on growing the sport further this year
PRESIDENT of the Guyana Badminton Association (GBA), Emily Ramdhani, says the body had many successes in 2024 and is focused on continuing to grow and expand the sport this year.
Over 2024, Ramdhani said the GBA’s aim was geared towards awareness, athletes’ development, as well as active participation in local and international tournaments.
She highlighted that their activities strengthened the foundation for the growth of badminton, fostering greater interest and success among young people.
“I think it’s an improvement from the year before,
we had 16 medals in the junior category and five in the senior category and I’m feeling so proud of that. The executive committee is also extremely proud of our athletes; we are going above and beyond to get these children to a higher standard; we will continue to work with them for 2025 and hopefully we get a better year,” She said She singled out the likes of Akili Haynes and Priyanna Ramdahni for the work they have done to achieve a decent measure of success at the senior level.
Last year, Guyana’s badminton teams captured eight bronze medals at the Suriname Easter Junior Badminton
President of the Guyana Badminton Association, Emily Ramdhani
Tournament; eight bronze medals in the CAREBACO Junior Tournament; one bronze medal in Costa Rica along with one silver and
three bronze at the Suriname International.
The long-time badminton player and wife of former Caribbean champion Gokarn,
said they have made donation of equipment to schools and communities in Berbice and Essequibo to help grow the sport through their shuttle-time programme, saying, “In addition to getting medals we also did some outreaches in Essequibo; we went to a couple of schools, did demonstrations on badminton, introduced them to the sport and gave them shuttle -time kits. We are looking forward to doing a similar one this year.”
Ramdhani says they will also look to expand, adding, “We will be doing an air badminton tournament. We have not gotten a venue as yet but we are working on that, it has to be done on sand. We
investigated the Marriott beach but that is too windy, but we are looking forward to having the tournament this year.”
The GBA also built capacity as Priyanna Ramdhani successfully completed the Level One and Level Two Event Managers Course in collaboration with the Badminton World Federation (BWF) and the World Academy of Sports.
Both Narayan and Priyanna Ramdhani have become qualified Level One Coaches.
In addition, the body hosted six local tournaments and competed in six regional and international competitions.
National basketball team down to 15 after intense trials
GHB sports ministry for new hockey turf
PRESIDENT of the Guyana Hockey Board, Phillip Fernandes says the body is thankful for the support of the Ministry of culture, Youth and Sport in making a suitable space available to lay a piece of artificial surface at Orealla Avenue ground in South Ruimveldt Gardens.
Fernandes says while it’s not a full-sized surface, it will boost what they are able to do in preparation for overseas engagements.
“This is not a full field but it’s a small space on which especially young players can train on and even older players in a miniature version of the game and this is a very welcomed development. Currently there is only one of its kind in the country and with a second, it means its doubles the opportunity that we have to develop the sport of hockey and increase our numbers,” the GHB boss said.
Fernades says the placement in South Ruimveldt is ideal as
it’s been the home of plenty of the country’s top hockey players and home to Old Fort Hockey Club led by Ivor Thompson, a man instrumental in making the project a reality.
“We see it’s placement in South Ruimveldt (Gardens) as critical as South Ruimveldt has been the home and starting up points of many of our most successful athletes and it’s a haven for development and we really think that hockey in Guyana will benefit significantly for this, it’s a welcome addition.”
He said, as he commended one of the country best players and old fort stalwart, Jonathan Roberts for organising of the vital piece of artificial surface for usage locally
The ministry is also erecting lights to ensure extended hours of training according to fernandes, who added, “[This] exposes a lot more players because, many kids these days have extra lesion after school and therefore, if they can play
for another hour in the evening it serves the game and them very well’
Meantime, Minister Charles Ramson Jr at a recent press conference says that he intends to work with the GHB to make the area even more conducive with a completion deadline of approximately two months’ time “The Hockey Federation is going to be putting in a turf maybe in the next three weeks, we built a basketball court, we just built a tarmac, they got the turf donated from Canada. We are waiting for three weeks to get the concrete to cure and once that is done they are going to be laying the turf there and they now have the lights, we intend to do some additional works around the space,” Ramson said.
He said they will work to provide the necessary amenities to make it comfortable for play at the venue and for patrons.
Eagles forward Travis Belgrave (left) and Kobras ‘big man’ Jermain Slater head-to-head during the GBF two-day trials
The concrete surface where the artificial surface will be laid at Orealla Avenue, South Ruimveldt Gardens