Finance Minister explains proposed adjustments to personal income tax threshold and rates in 2025
THE following is the full statement issued by the Ministry of Finance on behalf of Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh:
“Since presenting Budget 2025 on Friday afternoon, I have been in receipt of several requests to explain in further detail the adjustments that our government is proposing to the provisions regarding the rates of personal income tax.
“It is worthwhile to recall that the APNU+AFC had introduced in 2017 two rates of income tax, 28 per cent and 40 per cent. At the time, they also set the threshold at $60,000 monthly (or 1/3 of the salary whichever is greater). As a result, at that time:
• The first $60,000 of the monthly salary (or 1/3 of the salary if that is greater) would be taxed at zero per cent;
• The next $120,000 of the monthly salary (twice the amount
of the threshold) would be taxed at 28 per cent; and
• The remainder of the monthly salary above that would be taxed at 40 percent.
Our government’s intention is now to make the following adjustments in 2025 to the threshold and rates of personal income tax payable:
• Increase the threshold to $130,000 monthly; and
• Lower the tax rates of 28 per cent and 40 per cent, to 25 per cent
and 35, respectively.
As a result of these proposed changes:
• The first $130,000 of the monthly salary (or 1/3 of the salary if that is greater) will now be taxed at zero per cent;
• The next $260,000 of the monthly salary (twice the amount of the threshold) would now be taxed at 25 percent; and
• The remainder above that would now be taxed at 35 percent.
“Additionally, of
course, the allowance of $10,000 per child monthly, and the allowances of up to $50,000 monthly for overtime and up to $50,000 monthly for income earned from a second job, will also be taxed at zero percent.
“The Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure
for 2025 that were tabled already incorporate the above adjustments, even though this full elaboration was not provided in the budget speech.
“These changes will be reflected in proposed amendments to the Income Tax Act to give legal effect from Year of Income 2025.”
Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh (Japheth Savory photo)
$104.6B for ‘agri’ sector to build confidence among farmers, stakeholders
- Agriculture Minister says, as gov’t pushes more youth, women-led programmes
By Naomi Parris
THE government has earmarked a record $104.6 billion for the agricultural sector in its latest national budget, with a clear focus on building confidence among farmers and industry stakeholders.
Examining this massive allocation, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha on Sunday said the funding reflects a commitment to transforming the sector through innovative programmes, particularly aimed at engaging more youths and women.
“We will continue to ensure that we use this sum effectively to enhance the lives of the fisher folks,[sic] the farmers, the stakeholders in the agriculture sector.
“As a government, we cannot only expand or increase budgetary allocation and expect that we will have enough production. First of all, you have to build the confidence of the farmers. You have to work with them as you have been doing very, very aggressively and regularly,” Minister Mustapha said in a broadcast interview.
He added: “I’ve been having regular outreaches across the country. I've been meeting with various groups across the country. We have been working in partnership. And as you mentioned, there are programmes for various sectors.”
Though the agriculture ministry has been focused on building out key infrastructure to enhance the country’s food production, simultaneously, investments have been made in several social programmes to support stakeholders and this is reflected in this year’s budget.
“We try as much as possible to be innovative, to capture the imagination of young people in this coun-
try. There's a perception out there that agriculture is a menial job, is a job that you have to do more physical work. Now we are changing that scenario. We are making agriculture more enjoyable for young people; they can do it. We are making agriculture less labour intensive and more modern.”
Minister Mustapha pointed to several initiatives such as the cut-rose project which targets single parents, specifically women. There is also an aggressive poultry programme which directly provides an income for women.
Meanwhile ,for youths, the agricultural and innovation entrepreneurship programme targets graduates of the University of Guyana and the Guyana School of Agriculture.
This particular programme has already seen the country constructing over 600 shade houses across the country, producing an array of high-value crops targeting both local and regional markets.
“Hundreds of young people, graduates who were doing clerical work, pushing paper and pen behind a desk. They are now involved in agriculture. They are now practising what they would
have learned in the classroom, sharing their skills out there to enhance the sector,” Minister Mustapha boasted.
ECONOMIC BOOST
Minister Mustapha also pointed out that though Guyana is now an oil and gas producing country, the non-oil sectors such as agriculture remain top contributors to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).
In 2024, the sector contributed 11 per cent of the country's growth. The minister credited this to the increased production in sub-sectors such as rice, fisheries and aquaculture, and new and emerging crops such as corn and soya bean.
“We have seen last year [that] our country performed extremely well, where we saw 43 per cent 43.6 per cent to be accurate, growth in the country's GDP. And if you look at that, we were the fastest -growing economy in the world. And that tells us something, that tells us that we have prudent management…I am very elated as a minister of agriculture, because the 13.1 per cent that contributed to the 43.6 per cent growth to the country's GDP, agriculture would have 11 per cent of
that growth.”
Further, agriculture in general,and the fishing and forestry sub-sectors are projected to grow by 11.4 per cent this year.
In his presentation of the fiscal package to the National Assembly on Friday last, Senior Minister within the office of the President with responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh pointed out that with increased production targeted for all subsectors will contribute to the increase.
Overall, the country’s real GDP is projected at 10.6 per cent for 2025, with growth in the non-oil economy projected at 13.8 per cent.
AGRICULTURE’S BUDGET AT A GLANCE
Here is what to expect for the agricultural sector’s budgetary, allocation which
works in Region Five and commence works in Region Three. The allocation will also target the completion of pump stations and advance other critical D&l canals and structures, including areas such as Adams Creek, Canefield, Good Hope and Mabaruma.
LIVESTOCK: $1.7 billion has been set aside to expand the production and productivity of the livestock sub-sector. This will support the completion a modular pig-slaughtering and processing facility at Garden of Eden, and modular duck-processing facilities in Regions Two and Six, acquisition of incubators for hatching eggs, and establishment of poultry zones for improved biosecurity and economies of scale and construction of a feed pelletiser storage building.
Regions One to Six.
SUGAR: $13.3 billion will be made available to continue to support and rehabilitate the sugar industry.
RICE: $430.9 million is included in Budget 2025 to improve efficiency and productivity in the rice industry.
OTHER CROPS: $2.9 billion has been set aside to support the development and expansion of other crops.
COCONUTS: $116 million has been budgeted to support the expansion of production, introduce improved varieties, promote value-added production, and train farmers.
AGRO-PROCESS -
ING: $800 million has been set aside to support investments in value-chain development, from farming to market expansion for agricultur-
reflects a continuation of aggressive investments.
DRAINAGE AND IRRIGATION: $73.2 billion has been set aside for the upgrade and expansion of the national drainage and irrigation (D&I) network in 2025. Of that sum, over $15 billion has been budgeted to complete works on Hope-like canal structures in Region Six, advance
FISHERIES AND AQUACULTURE: $1.3 billion has been budgeted to support fisheries and aquaculture development; construct 80 additional brackish-water shrimp ponds in Region Six; acquire 100 vessel-monitoring devices to complement the surveillance of fishing activities and upgrade additional landing sites in
al produce and products, including the construction of an additional processing facility, bringing the total processing facilities operationalised by government to 16 across the country; establishment of an agri-business hub at Bartica and training of an additional 1,242 farmers and agro-processors.
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha
TikTok restores service in US after Trump pledge
TIKTOK is resuming services to its 170 million users in US after President-elect Donald Trump said he would issue an executive order to give the app a reprieve when he takes office on Monday.
On Saturday evening, the Chinese-owned app stopped working for American users, after a law banning it on national security grounds came into effect.
Trump, who had previously backed a ban of the platform, promised on Sunday to delay implementation of the law and allow more time for a deal to be made. TikTok then said that it was in the process of "restoring service".
Soon after, the app started working again and a popup message to its millions of users thanked Trump by name. In a statement, the company thanked the incoming president for "providing the necessary clarity and assurance" and said it would
work with Trump "on a long-term solution that keeps TikTok in the United States".
TikTok CEO Shou Chew is expected to attend Trump's inauguration Monday.
Posting on Truth Social, a social media platform he owns, Trump said on Sunday: "I'm asking companies not to let TikTok stay dark! I will issue an executive order on Monday to extend the period of time before the law's prohibitions take effect, so that we can make a deal to protect our national security."
TikTok's parent company, Bytedance, previously ignored a law requiring it to sell its US operations to avoid a ban. The law was upheld by Supreme Court on Friday and went into effect on Sunday. It is unclear what legal authority Trump will have to delay the implementation of a law that is already
in effect. But it expected that his government will not enforce the ban if he issues an executive order. It's an about-face from his previous position. Trump had backed a TikTok ban but has more recently professed a "warm spot" for the app, touting the billions of views he says his videos attracted on the platform during last year's presidential campaign.
For its part, President Joe Biden's administration had already said that it would not enforce the law in its last hours in office
and instead allow the process to play out under the incoming Trump administration.
But TikTok had pulled its services anyway on Saturday evening, before the swift restoration of access on Sunday.
The short-form video platform is wildly popular among its many millions of US users. It has also proved a valuable tool for American political campaigns to reach younger voters.
Under the law passed last April, the US version of the app had to be re -
moved from app stores and web-hosting services if its Chinese owner ByteDance did not sell its US operations.
TikTok had argued before the Supreme Court that the law violated free speech protections for its users in the country.
The law was passed with support from both Republicans and Democrats in Congress and was upheld unanimously by Supreme Court justices earlier this week.
The issue exposes a rift on a key national security issue between the president-elect and members of his own party. His pick for Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, had vocally supported the ban.
"TikTok extended the Chinese Communist Party's power and influence into our own nation, right under our noses," he said last April. But he seemed to defer to the president-elect when a journalist asked if he supported Trump's efforts to restore the ban.
"If I'm confirmed as secretary of State, I'll work for the president," he told Punchbowl media last week.
opening up the possibility to TikTok being banned by local jurisdictions, even if it is available nationally.
Although the platform went live again on Sunday for existing users, the question of whether third-parties - hosting platforms or app stores like Google or Apple - could support TikTok in the US remains murky, says University of Richmond law professor Carl Tobias. The app had been removed from those stores in anticipation of the ban.
"It is murky," he told the BBC.
In a post on Truth media, Trump promised to shield companies from liability, opening the door to TikTok being available on Apple and Google again.
"The order will also confirm that there will be no liability for any company that helped keep TikTok from going dark before my order," the president-elect said on Truth Social Sunday.
But during the Supreme Court hearings, Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar was adamant that an executive order cannot change the law retroactively.
After Trump intervened on Sunday morning, Senate Intelligence Committee Chair Tom Cotton, a Republican senator from Arkansas, broke with Trump by saying that any company that helps TikTok stay online would be breaking the law.
"Any company that hosts, distributes, services, or otherwise facilitates communist-controlled TikTok could face hundreds of billions of dollars of ruinous liability under the law, not just from DOJ, but also under securities law, shareholder lawsuits, and state AGs," he wrote on social media.
An executive order that goes against the law could be fought in court.
Several states have also sued the platform,
"Whatever the new president does, doesn't change that reality for these companies," Justice Sonia Sotomayor said during the hearings.
"That's right," Prelogar said.
Professor Tobias said that the law does include a provision that would allow the president to postpone the ban for up to 90 days, if he can show that the company is making substantial progress on alleviating national security issues. But, he said, it's not clear whether those conditions have been met.
"The best thing Trump could do is work with Congress, and not potentially be in violation of the law or have any questions left hanging," he said.
"I don't know that we're going to know a whole lot more until we see that executive order." (BBC)
Kenya sends another 200 police to fight gangs in Haiti
KENYA sent more than 200 police officers to Haiti on Saturday, providing backup to an understaffed security mission in the Caribbean country where rampant gang violence has displaced more than a million people.
Some 10 countries have together pledged over 3,100 troops for Haiti as part of a U.N.-backed anti-gang force, but few have so far deployed.
Kenya's Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen said the new group comprised 217 police from Kenya, who would join about 400 officers sent last year.
"Our commitment to this historic mission is unwavering and we will continue to mobilise all the necessary international support for it to succeed," he said in a
social media post.
Kenya has led the effort to staff the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, originally promising to deploy a total of 1,000 people.
However, Reuters reported last month that 20 people in the initial deployment submitted letters of resignation from the anti-gang mission due to pay delays and poor conditions.
The MSS in Haiti, which is led by top Kenyan police officers, said in response that its offers had received their salaries, and that it had not received resignations.
The nations of Guatemala, El Salvador, Jamaica and Belize have also contributed officers to the anti-gang effort.
Kenyan police officers, Port-au-Prince, January 18, 2025 (REUTERS/Ralph Tedy Erol)
Necessary Changes
IN the rapidly evolving landscape of Guyana's political arena, the call for a review of outdated parliamentary language rules is not just timely but essential. As our nation strides forward into a new era of economic prosperity and social development, it is imperative that our legislative processes keep pace with the times.
The recent push by the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance,
Gail Teixeira, to reassess the list of banned words in Parliament is a welcome move. Many of these prohibitions inherited from the British House of Commons pre-independence, have become archaic and irrelevant to our current context. This anachronistic approach to parliamentary discourse is not only out of touch with modern Guyanese society, but also hinders effective governance and debate.
One of the most glar-
ing issues with the current rules is the ban on terms such as "corruption." In a nation committed to transparency and accountability, how can we effectively address anti-corruption measures if the very word is deemed unparliamentary? This restriction stifles meaningful discussion on critical issues facing our country.
The proposed review of language rules mirrors the recent update to the parliamentary dress code
in 2024, demonstrating a willingness to adapt to changing times. This progressive attitude is crucial as Guyana undergoes rapid transformation across all sectors.
While tradition has its place, it should not come at the expense of effective governance. The Speaker's strict enforcement of these outdated rules, some dating back to 1992, raises questions about their relevance in today's political climate.
A careful review and update of these rules would ensure that our parliamentary discussions remain respectful, while allowing for frank and open debate on pressing national issues.
As we prepare for intense debate surrounding the 2025 National Budget, it's clear that our parliamentary language must evolve.
This is not about discarding decorum but about ensuring that our National
Assembly can address contemporary challenges effectively.
The government's unprecedented record of accessibility and transparency, with over 90 per cent of commitments to the electorate fulfilled, sets a strong foundation for this reform. It's time for our parliamentary language to reflect the progressive, forward-thinking nation that Guyana is becoming.
Assert, Dodge, Divert: Anatomy of A Playbook
Dear Editor,
I WISH to condemn the vituperative remarks against Mr Shaquawn Gill following the recent publication of his missive, Numbers Matter.
As a youth leader interested in Guyana’s socio-political landscape, he raised salient questions. Similarly, when my own article was published days earlier, the so-called “criticism” ignored the substantive issues and focused on ad hominem attacks.
When questioned at his party’s January 10 “presser” regarding my statements challenging him to produce evidence
or a list of alleged names and figures to substantiate his apparent claims that the PPP was involved in the deaths of 1,200 Black men—including the Henry boys—Hughes seemingly dismissed his original figure and produced a new one--400.
In his words, “If you're asking me to argue whether it's 1,200 or 1,100 or 1,400, to me, that's secondary.”
Despite these statements, no evidence has been presented. Hughes utilises a predictable tactic: produce inflammatory claims, deflect, and evade scrutiny
when challenged, and shift focus to an entirely new narrative without addressing the original issue. His press conference statements underscore this.
He doubled down, claiming to have evidence but refusing to present it or provide figures, insisting the numbers were “secondary”—implying he could pull any figure from a hat and attribute it to the then-government without evidence. He then attempted an emotional fallacy with the following:
““So, if-if you're asking me, it's like asking me, did 6,000,000 Jews die in Auschwitz or was it
4,000,000? Is that really the question you're asking?””
The Holocaust is the most documented genocide in human history, with extensive records detailing the systematic extermination of over six million Jews across Nazi-occupied Europe. This is a dangerously irresponsible comparison by Mr Hughes.
He further stated: “We have had jailbreaks, massacres… Lusignan happened under a particular era, Bartica happened under a particular era. I—I mean, this country has
been
littered. The history of this country since 1992 and before—I mean, before you had a death squad—has been littered with people who have disappeared.”
Here, Hughes attempts to shift the goalposts by referencing the Lusignan and Bartica massacres and the 2002 jailbreak, while mentioning that death squads existed before 1992.
This deflects the conversation to state security apparatus failings and away from the core issue. This is the division playbook on full display.
In a 2013 Stabroek News article, then Opposition Leader David Granger campaigned for a CoI into the crime-wave period. By 2018, as President, he vowed in a DPI article to expose the “intellectual authors” of what he called the “Troubles” period. By 2019, with an election looming, only one inquiry had been completed: the Lindo Creek CoI. A Stabroek News article that year captured Granger stating, “You can’t convene a Commission of Inquiry and nobody’s going to come forward with evidence,” but adding, “Once there is evidence,
TURN TO PAGE 7
The Martin Carter story is found only in fiction
ABOUT 15 years ago, I announced a monthly format to my column-writing. Because of the feedback with accompanying questions, I accept that I should answer some questions. Responding does two things: it compels you to show obligation to your readers and it allows you to find materials for your columns.
I started the format and never continued with it. Over the years, particularly since 2020, the emails are plenty and so are the questions. I will try to continue what I started 15 years ago. I got a request from a professor from City University of New York to meet with him to discuss Martin Carter, because he said he read where I had revealed that Carter was an informant of MI6 (the British foreign intelligence agency).
So, I turned up last month at Cara Lodge (formerly the Taitt residence, the home of the most recognised elitist Mulatto/
Creole family in the history of Guyana) on Quamina Street. He introduced me to his lovely wife who operated the tape and took notes. He wanted my take on Carter’s politics because he was intrigued at my revisionist approach to Carter. What was scheduled to be an hour on Carter, turned out to be two hours because he wanted to know if there was also an informant in the WPA in the 1970s. He indicated that our conversation will be part of a journal, the name of which I cannot remember. Here once more is my revisionist perspective on the politics of Carter.
Recently released British files on the PPP in the 1950s listed an informant inside the PPP whose code name was “Lascar.” To find out who was Lascar, you have to do some painstaking research. You have to meticulously examine each Central Committee member of the PPP in the early 1950s to see if any clue
would stand out.
‘Lascar’ was the name given to sub-continent sailors. When you examine all, and I mean all the leaders in the PPP from 1950 onwards, none had a sailor’s background, even among their parents. I linked it to Carter for two reasons: one, is that the name, ‘Lascar’ was invented by the Portuguese. British intelligence gave Carter that code name because he was seen as the most-known Portuguese player in the PPP at the time.
Carter genetically is not purely Portuguese. The correct classification is Mulatto/Creole as his fellow Mulatto comrade in the PPP, Rory Westmaas. For a moment I thought it was Westmaas, but to ascertain who Lascar was, you have to juxtapose the overt political behaviour of every PPP leader at that time with the name ‘Lascar.’ I came up with Carter for the second reason –his double life and contradictory politics
I will now elaborate. Before I do so, I am convinced that Martin Carter was ‘Lascar.’ Space would not allow for a detailed analysis, so from here I will be brief. Carter picketed Princess Ann, Queen Elizabeth’s sister in 1953 with an insulting placard to advise her to go home. He was the first Guyanese to officially declare himself a Stalinist.
Carter was then expelled from the PPP for ultra-communist activities. After Carter was expelled, guess where he turned up? Not in his own Stalinist party he was supposed to birth, but working for the British Colonial Office in Georgetown, the forerunner of the British High Commission.
In those days you didn’t have emails with passwords. All you had were paper documents and paper telegrams. So, the British Government was
comfortable having an anti-monarchist, Stalinist wild man working in its office in Georgetown, where he would have access to confidential files. How do you like that -- from ultra-communist to top British Government employee.
Carter’s next stop was a high-level office in the most enduring British plantocratic company in the entire world – Bookers. He wasn’t given a desk job but was made the public relations spokesperson for this giant British colonial business.
Carter’s next port of entry was the government of Forbes Burnham. Burnham probably suspected Carter was working for British intelligence and kicked him out his government.
After leaving Burnham’s government, Carter acquired the status of the prodigal’s son. Guess where he went? Back to Bookers.
British imperialism made
sure that Carter was financially comfortable. All this time, Carter never said a word about his gargantuan ironic life – big and bad, extremist communist and at the same time, trusted lieutenant of British imperialism.
This contradictory life of Carter is only found in paperback novels. No one in the world in any British country was treated so royally by British colonialism as Martin Carter.
Unfortunately, Cheddi and Janet Jagan died long before the British files were released. Carter does not deserve a resting place at the Seven Ponds.
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.
Assert, Dodge, Divert: Anatomy of...
FROM PAGE 6
we will continue to search.”
President Granger could not hold a comprehensive inquiry into the crime-wave period due to a lack of evidence. Yet Hughes apparently had this evidence all along! Why didn’t he provide Granger with the requisite evidence to facilitate an inquiry?
Here are documented instances of Hughes making unsubstantiated claims, only to deflect
when challenged:
● Warrau Immigrants: Hughes falsely claimed that the government had invited 30 Warrau immigrants to the city, abandoned them at the Amerindian Affairs Ministry and subsequently shifted focus to the need for a “comprehensive immigration policy.”
● 2020 Election Saga: Hughes boldly claimed the AFC had nothing to apologise for during the 2020 elec-
tion saga. When later asked about the coalition’s “winning SOPs,” he claimed not to have seen them, despite currently being a lawyer for some of the defendants in the election fraud case.
● No-Confidence Motion Case (2018): Hughes asserted that 34 votes were needed for a majority of 65, and not 33, which the CCJ rejected. He then shifted focus to the need for “constitutional reform” to restore “public trust in our systems.”
● Exim Bank Loan: AFC Chair David Patterson accused VP Jagdeo of lying about Guyana receiving a $500M Exim Bank loan for the gas-to-energy project, a claim debunked by a senior US State Department official. This illustrates that these tactics are not limited to Nigel Hughes, but are characteristic of the broader AFC leadership and reflective of its institutional approach.
The turbulent crime-
wave period scarred the psyche of the Guyanese people. Like every Guyanese, I want us to uncover the truth of this dark chapter to ensure that every single person receives justice and for healing to begin. Misrepresentations and distortions will only stymie this.
Turning this collective trauma into political theatre is not only reprehensible, but cruel. It epitomises Hughes’ outdated political playbook: self-preservation at the
expense of the Guyanese people. What better term for this than moral stagnation? We deserve better politics from the AFC: prioritising leadership on critical policy issues over cheap theatrics behind a veneer of pseudosophistication.
Better must come— not through empty and inflammatory rhetoric, but through genuine leadership in the service of the Guyanese people.
Yours faithfully, Nikhil Sankar
007: licence to switch
JAMES Anthony Bond, former Member of Parliament for the PNCR, took political centre stage this week when he endorsed President, Dr Irfaan Ali for a second term.
With the announcement came an avalanche of vile political attacks from members and supporters of the opposition. A lot of the discourse was downright
racist. What was amazing to me is that many PNC activists who were James Bond’s “comrades” just the day before, were on the attack with what could be considered hate speech.
In response to those sentiments, James offered the following reasoning, “President Ali and his government have shown the political will to empower
every Guyanese, regardless of race, political affiliation, or any other factor, as outlined in our Constitution. The One-Guyana initiative is not merely a promise; it is actively working to build a more cohesive nation.”
One would’ve thought that this kind of attack on James would’ve come from fringe elements in the opposition, but this approach
seems to be mainstream and part of the opposition’s modus operandi. This approach to politics is not limited to the PNC, ditto to the AFC. I thought that the PNCR would take credit for providing political exposure, opportunities and training that made James a valuable political asset to the point where the PPP can now find him politically attractive and useful. They could’ve even used the opportunity to take a dig at the PPP by saying, something to the effect that, when PPP reveals its true colours and James wakes up from his temporary political daze, there is a welcoming arm in the PNC. Instead of expressing sadness that one of its fiercest soldiers was lost to the ‘enemy,’ the party flew into a fit of anger and responded to James as though he is the personification of an age-old satanic enemy. This is symptomatic of the opposition practise of politics.
The asininities associated with this approach is that they are not giving James pause to reconsider his decision, if for no other reason, on account of the long years of friendship, toil and side-by-side ‘struggle’ for a common cause. The designation of James as public enemy number one simply means that he cannot trust those folks to re-associate himself with them. They revealed themselves to be ‘enemies’ all along, simply lay-waiting to strike him the moment he stepped on their toes. They have now made the opposition a dungeon of serpents to which James can never return. This approach will alienate a lot more sup -
porters of the opposition who stand aside and see that instead of the party elements thanking James for his years of toil and service, has declared him to be an ungrateful, soup drinker and slave catcher.
The thing is, James has not even said that he has left the PNCR or wish to dissociate himself from all that it represents. He simply said that on account of his long years of friendship with President Ali and some of the developmental paths he has pursued, he will support President Ali’s second term. Despite James having not yet pledged general or wider support for the PPP/C, the long daggers came out, unrelentingly. This is his rationale, “The desire for progress is at the heart of President Ali's government, and I refuse to stand in its way. I urge all Guyanese, regardless of race, political affiliation or any other factor, to support President Ali and his government by giving them the mandate to serve our great country for another term.”
It is my opinion that the poverty of creativity, forethought and political judgment coming from the combined opposition are causing a major exodus towards the PPP/C. What is notable, is that the PPP is responsive to the people from opposing sides who express support. Whichever party I am a part of, I always favour this approach.
I recall, during a joint coalition party meeting in preparation for the 2016 Local Government Elections, I made the point that since Granger was enjoying a near rockstar popularity, all efforts should be
made to break the spirit of the PPP/C. I posited that we should go headhunting deep into the PPP. I was floored by the responses. A senior PNC leader retorted, “what’s wrong with you, this is we time now, leave them people alone.” Another top leader, who had no idea what headhunting meant, said he thought I was referring to swiping off heads of political opponents.
Instead of growing the government, the coalition lost several members to the PPP/C simply because there was an air of resistance and unwillingness to entice, encourage or accept members and supporters of the PPP/C. I’ve always thought that it was the most effective way to break morale in the opposition and gain momentum for the next elections. Neither the PNC nor the AFC saw that as a priority. While in government, there were no noteworthy PPP defectors. Political consolidation, when in government, is a recipe for electoral defeat. The PPP embraced this concept almost religiously, leading to its longevity in government. The momentum is unstoppable. This is not the end; ordinary supporters of the PPP will simply have to follow their leaders and find room to accommodate the tide of opposition activists that will flow into the PPP/C.
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.
15 graduate as Medical Laboratory Technicians after successfully completing rigorous training programme
ON Saturday, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) celebrated the successful completion of a oneyear Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) Training Programme, with 15 individuals graduating as newly skilled professionals in the field of medical laboratory science.
This comprehensive programme was designed to produce highly qualified technicians who will play a vital role in improving healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.
The training combined extensive theoretical lessons with hands-on practical experience, ensuring that participants gained expertise in key areas such as haematology, micro -
15 persons have successfully completed a one-year Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) Training Programme in Region Five
biology, blood banking, clinical chemistry, immunology, and urology. Students were also trained in essential competencies such as laboratory safety protocols, specimen handling, quality assurance, and data interpretation skills critical for ensuring the accuracy and integrity of laboratory services. These graduates are now fully equipped to make meaningful contributions to the healthcare sector, bringing both their knowledge and practical experience to the workforce.
The graduation ceremony was attended by several distinguished of-
ficials, including the Honourable Dr Frank Anthony, Minister of Health; Dr Theresa Sarju, Regional Health Officer (RHO); Ms Geogel Abrams, Senior Health Education Officer; Mr Faizal Jaffarally, Member of Parliament; Mr Vickchand Ramphal, Regional Chairman, along with other notable government representatives. The successful completion of this programme marks a significant step forward in strengthening the healthcare workforce in Region Five and ensuring the continued delivery of quality medical services.
(MoH)
Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony as he addresses the graduates
Victoria man allegedly chops brother to death during argument
POLICE are investigating a report of murder committed on Akeem Prince, a Guyanese male of African descent,
age 34, of Victoria Village, East Coast Demerara.
The suspect, 28-yearold Kareem Prince, also
a Guyanese Male of African descent, of Victoria Village, is the victim's brother, and they were living together in the
same house.
The murder occurred between 04:00hrs and 06:30hrs on Sunday at their home in Victoria.
The suspect was arrested, and is in custody.
Reports are that there was an argument between the two brothers, and it is alleged that the suspect chopped the deceased in the head, which may have resulted in his death. (GPF)
Guterres welcomes start of ceasefire in Gaza as UN ramps up food deliveries
SECRETARY-GENER-
AL António Guterres welcomed the start earlier on Sunday of the ceasefire and hostage release in Gaza, as UN humanitarian convoys brought in urgently needed food aid to begin pulling the war-ravaged territory back from starvation.
“We stand ready to support this implementation and scale up the delivery of sustained humanitarian relief to the countless Palestinians who continue to suffer,” the UN chief said in a social media post.
He added: “It is imperative that this ceasefire removes the significant security and political obstacles to delivering aid.”
According to news reports, three Israeli hostages held by Hamas were released and transferred by the Red Cross back to Israel, as the first phase of the ceasefire deal took effect. Reports suggest that later on Sunday, Israel was expected to release some 90 Palestinian prisoners.
Brokered last week by the Qatar, Egypt and the United States, the threephase ceasefire comes 15 months after Hamas militants attacked Israel on 7 October 2023. Some 1,200 people were killed and 250 were taken as hostages, with around 100 still being held.
Israel launched the military campaign following the Hamas-led attacks on its territory.
More than 46,000 Palestinians have been killed since the conflict
began, according to Gaza’s health authorities,
The Gaza strip has since been devastated and its two million inhabitants left in dire need of food and other necessities.
The ceasefire and the implementation of the first phase was hailed by the United Nations as a crucial step toward peace and toward alleviating the immense suffering endured by the Palestinian population.
In a separate statement, UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher highlighted the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza following the ceasefire.
“As the ceasefire entered into force today, humanitarian aid moved into Gaza as part of a prepared surge to increase our support to survivors. More than 630 trucks with humanitarian aid entered Gaza today, with at least 300 of them going
to the north.”
He acknowledged the challenges faced in delivering aid, stressing the importance of safety for civilians and aid workers.
Mr. Fletcher, who heads up the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) expressed gratitude towards UN teams and partners, emphasising their courage and creativity in preparing for this moment.
“I urgently call on countries with influence over the parties to ensure that this lifesaving aid reaches those who need it most,” he said.
WHAT’S LEFT OF ‘HOME’
In the early morning hours after the ceasefire went into effect, many displaced Palestinians began gradually returning to see what is left of their homes.
Shadi Jumaa Abu Sheha returned to Nuseirat
in central Gaza, only to find the dwelling he had built mostly with his own hands “is no longer a home, it is a ruin.”
He was accompanied by a UN News correspondent in Gaza as he assessed the extent of the damage, which had left some of the rooms in ruins, their interiors now open to the weather.
Still, Shadi was relieved that “the bloodshed has stopped”, telling our correspondent: “This is an indescribable feeling. Thank God we survived this war unharmed. But I cannot describe the extent of the destruction...I do not know what to say.”
SAFE HUMANITARIAN ACCESS NEEDED
For its part, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) acted swiftly, with convoys entering Gaza early on Sunday from Egypt and via Ashdod, Israel.
The ceasefire has al-
lowed the agency to bring in urgently needed food supplies at an unprecedented scale, aiming to stave off starvation in the war-torn region, the agency said in a press release.
WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain emphasized the critical nature of this initiative, noting that the agency’s goal is to deliver at least 150 truckloads of food into Gaza daily.
“After 15 months of war, we need all border crossings to stay open and function efficiently, effectively and reliably. And we need humanitarian teams to be able to move freely and safely across Gaza to reach those in need.”
FOCUS ON WOMEN AND GIRLS
UN Women has also welcomed the ceasefire and hostage release agreement, expressing hope that all parties will honor their commitments
to pave the way for lasting peace for women and girls in Palestine, Israel, and the region.
“The news of the ceasefire brings relief for the 1 million women and girls who have lived under continued bombardment, without safety in Gaza for the last 470 days,” the agency said in a statement.
The agency highlighted the urgent need for humanitarian relief and reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside women's organizations and the families of Gaza to advocate for inclusive recovery efforts, rights, safety, and dignity.
While these efforts mark a significant step forward, the road to recovery is fraught with challenges, UN Women said, urging all parties to uphold the ceasefire and facilitate the safe and efficient delivery of aid. (UN)
Shadi Jomaa Abu Sheha inside what’s left of his home in north of Nuseirat, Gaza (UN)
Massive Region Two road upgrade to improve connectivity, road safety
- economic boom, brighter future for residents anticipated
RESIDENTS
of Region
Two are buzzing with excitement and optimism as the Ministry of Public Works unveils its plans to upgrade the Essequibo Coast Public Road from Supenaam to Charity.
This long-awaited project, designed to improve connectivity and enhance road safety, has sparked praise and gratitude from residents across the region.
The proposed works include widening the carriageway; constructing retaining structures in critical areas; resurfacing the road with a durable asphaltic concrete layer and installing roadside furniture.
For residents, these developments represent more than just infrastructural upgrades—they symbolise growth, progress and a brighter future for their communities.
“I’ve lived here my entire life and this is the
first time I’ve seen such a massive investment in our roads,” shared Nickel Harrypersaud, a small-business owner from Anna Regina.
“These upgrades will not only make travelling safer, but will also bring more business opportunities for everyone in the region. I’m so grateful to the government for making this happen,” another resident commented.
The ministry has also announced that, while the major upgrades are in progress, maintenance works will begin immediately to address pressing issues such as potholes and damaged bridge approaches. Four contractors have been tasked with these interim measures, ensuring the safety of road users until the larger project is completed.
This project complements the 179 community roads currently being con-
structed by small contractors in the region at a total cost of $2.5 billion.
For residents like Sewchand Narine, a taxi driver from Charity, these efforts are life changing. “Better roads mean shorter travel times and less wear and tear on my car. It makes my job easier and more enjoyable,” he said.
Community leaders have also voiced their support, highlighting how improved infrastructure will boost economic activity, tourism and overall quality of life in Region Two.
“The widened roads and smoother surfaces will make it easier for farmers to transport their produce and for families to access essential services,” explained Narvanie Singh, a local teacher. “We are deeply thankful to the government for prioritising our region.”
The Ministry of Pub -
The public road stretching from Supenaam to Charity will undergo massive upgrades, which will improve connectivity and road safety, expose residents to a more comfortable way of life and boost economic activity in the region
lic Works has pledged to keep residents informed as the project progresses. This transparent and inclusive approach has further strengthened the trust and appreciation of the local communities. As the first signs of construction begin, the residents of Region Two remain hopeful and excited. Their gratitude to the government and the Ministry of Public Works is evident in their words and actions, as they look forward to a future of safer roads, stronger communities and endless possibilities.
Gov’t remains unwavering in its efforts to curtail domestic violence
THE government remains unwavering in its efforts to end domestic violence and to raising awareness about the growing scourge.
SINCE assuming office in 2020, several interventions have been pursued by the government. These included the updating of critical legislation such as the Family Violence Act 2023 and the establishment of two Hope and Justice Centres in Regions Three and Four, as well as the establishment of the country’s first Gender Based Violence Mobile Unit in Region One. The mobile unit was established to provide access to essential services and immediate support to survivors of gender-based violence in that region.
Additionally, communities in each region were trained and sensitised on sexual offences and domestic-violence prevention.
For the past four years, free legal aid services were provided to more than 19,500 persons. There was also the establishment of the legal pro-bono initiative to provide legal services to mainly victims of domestic violence.
During the reading of Budget 2025, Minister at the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, stated that 2,478 survivors of gender-based violence benefitted from shelter and counselling services and essential items for
hygiene and nutrition.
Further, Minister Singh noted that government brought into law the Combatting of Trafficking in Persons Act 2023, which criminalises sex and labour trafficking,
and increased previously prescribed penalties for trafficking crimes. Notably, 2024 marked the eighth consecutive year Guyana maintained its Tier 1 status in the United States Department
of State Trafficking in Persons ranking.
The Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, in her 2024 endof-year press conference revealed that at least $150 million was allotted to combatting sexual offences and gender-based violence.
This was the first time Guyana had a comprehensive model to respond to gender-based violence. The progress for this is ‘measured.’ It was also revealed that 2024 was the first time there was a decrease in domestic violence-related murders. Figures show that there was a 33 per cent decrease.
With the implementation of the 914 hotline,
more than 200 of 14,000 calls received were related directly to domestic violence or cases of gender-based violence. The minister pointed out that over 300 of these calls were related to child protection or reports of child abuse.
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has been able to help over 1,500 persons who had called in for support through the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Unit.
Dr Singh said that in 2024, the government expended a total of $46.9 billion to pursue initiatives in the social services. In 2025, $58.5 billion has been included in the national budget to continue this work.
GNNL continues to contribute to children’s technological advancement
UNDERSTANDING the importance of technology in education today, the Guyana National Newspapers Limited (GNNL) has handed over prizes to several students who were selected as winners in the company’s annual Christmas Giveaway.
GNNL, the publishers of the Guyana Chronicle newspaper, on January 10, 2025, hosted the winners and their families in the company’s corridor where the prizes were handed over.
Speaking at the brief ceremony, the GNNL’s Marketing and Circulation Manager, Beverly Roberts, said the Christmas Giveaway was designed not only to celebrate the season of Christmas, but to make a meaningful impact on the lives of learners.
She underscored that
the company understands the importance of technology in today’s world, especially in education.
Roberts expressed that it is GNNL’s hope that the prizes presented will aid to inspire and empower the recipients to achieve even greater success.
“We are truly grateful for the enthusiasm and support shown by all who entered. Your participation is what made this giveaway so special, and it’s heartwarming to know that these gadgets will make a difference in your lives,” she told participants.
While congratulating the winners, Roberts encouraged them to keep reading the newspaper and to follow the Guyana Chronicle on all its social media platforms: Facebook- Guyana Chronicle, Instagram: @gychronicle, X (Twitter)- @gy-
chronicle, and YouTubegychronicle.
The promotion ran from November 24, 2024, to December 19, 2024. Participants were urged to purchase a copy of the Guyana Chronicle to see the coupon, answer the question on the coupon correctly then fill and cut
the coupon out. Participants were also instructed to place the entry in an envelope and mail it to the company’s office head office on Lama Avenue, Georgetown, or drop it off for a chance to win a laptop, tablets, printers and a hamper.
This year, the company selected winners from Supply, Mahaica, Prashad Nagar, Non-Pareil on the East Coast of Demerara, and Herstelling and Timehri on the East Bank of Demerara.
The GNNL expressed thanks to its sponsors: Riaz Computers, K-Tron-
ics, and I &S Trading. Roberts said: “Thank you once again to everyone who participated, and to all our winners, congratulations. May the new year bring you even more opportunities to grow, learn and thrive.”
Winners of the GNNL Christmas Giveaway collecting their prizes during a simple ceremony held at the company’s Lama Avenue, Georgetown office
New Found Out gets access to potable water
SOME 35 households in the riverine community of New Found Out, Region 10, now have access to potable water, thanks to a newly drilled well by the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI). The initiative is a significant step toward improving the quality of life for residents, who previously depended on water from the river and rainwater harvesting for their daily needs.
Residents joined the Hon Collin D Croal, Minister of Housing and Water, along with GWI's Hinterland Services Director Mr Ramchand Jailal and Engineer, Mr Jumal Duncan for the commissioning of the $24.3 million water-supply system on Saturday. Present were also officials from the nearby community of Bartica, Region Seven including the Mayor of Bartica, His Worship Anthony Mur -
ray and Prime Ministerial Representative Mr Ewrin Ward.
Minister Croal highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring equal access to essential services for all citizens.
"Everybody must be able to benefit equally from the services that your government is delivering," Minister Croal affirmed, noting that this project fulfils a promise made to address the community’s concerns.
The new system is providing water access to approximately 95 per cent of the community, enabling residents to meet basic needs such as washing, and cooking with ease.
Hinterland Services Director Mr Jailal explained that initially, one well was planned for the community of Falmouth, which was also commissioned on Saturday. The contractor was able to
Minister Croal takes a drink from the water-supply system that was commissioned at New Found Out, Region 10, on Saturday
successfully drill the well to a depth of 100 metres. However, GWI had budgeted for a depth of 120 metres, resulting in cost savings for the project.
Following consultations at Falmouth with Toshao Gregory Williams, it was revealed that the
New Found Out community also faced a critical gap in access to potable water. With this information, the government approved the drilling of a second well to serve New Found Out, further expanding water access in the region.
Elderly resident Ms Sheila Miller expressed her happiness, recalling the challenges of fetching muddy river water for washing clothing. “We happy for this,” she said, relieved that water now comes directly to her home.
Works undertaken for the New Found Out Water Supply System are as follows: drilling of a potable water well to a depth of 100 metres; installation of 400 lengths of 50mm pipelines from the well throughout the community and 200 lengths of 19mm PVC pipelines from the well to the distribution network; installation of 30 service connections to residents and three standpipes at the waterfront for the persons passing on the river front; installation of PVC pipe fittings such as bends, tees, and ball valves (fittings sizes 3/4'' to 2'') for interconnection to well site and water system; construction of 20’ x 25’ perimeter chainlink fences around the well site and the installation of solar and solar frames for photovoltaic panels. (MoHW)
Firearm found, duo arrested
AT about 23:00 hrs on Saturday, Police ranks were on mobile patrol when they received certain information, and, as a result, proceeded to Tucville, Georgetown, between Perry and Saman Streets, where they heard two loud explosions which sounded like gunshots, and observed three males of African descent running east along the street.
The ranks pursued the men and apprehended one of them, who gave his name as Darwin Bennons, a Guyanese male of African descent, age 31, a vendor of Meadowbrook Housing Scheme.
male of African descent, age 18 years, a labourer of Meadowbrook. Like Bennons, he, too, was arrested. A search was conducted at their homes, but nothing illegal or unlawful was found. They were escorted to the East La Penitence Police Station with the suspected firearm, which was dusted for fingerprints, but none was found.
On being asked whether he was the holder of a fire-
Bennons was at the time carrying a Sig Sauer 9mm pistol in his right hand. Police immediately took possession of the firearm, and ejected the magazine, which did not contain any ammunition.
arm licence, Bennons said, 'No', whereupon he was told of the offence he’d committed, arrested, and cautioned.
A further search in the area uncovered another male, who gave his name as Ronald Gilbert, also a Guyanese
The firearm was then marked and placed into a transparent evidence bag, sealed, and lodged to be taken to Ballistics for analysis. The two suspects were placed into custody, and are currently assisting with the investigation. (GPF)
Darwin Bennons, called ‘Dirty’ The gun that was allegedly found by the police
Over 25,000 Guyanese employed in forestry sector
By Shamar Meusa
WITH confidence restored in Guyana’s forestry sector, Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat has said that over 25,000 Guyanese are currently employed directly and indirectly in the sector.
Minister Bharrat made this disclosure during the Ministry of Natural Resources’ recently held press conference.
Giving his commendation to the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC), the minister said: “Over the last four years, regardless of battling ‘COVID’ and the harsh weather conditions, they would have managed to turn around the sector, so much so that today we have many new investors or new players entering the forestry sector.”
Among the successes of the forestry sector, he indicated, was that the government has also seen over 25,000 Guyanese being employed directly or indirectly in the forestry sector.
He added that in relation to production in the forestry sector, a significant increase
has been seen, overall, from 2020 to 2024.
However, Minister Bharrat indicated that in 2024, an increase of over 20,000 cubic metres was seen as compared to the 2023 production.
This, he said, shows that confidence has been renewed in Guyanese investors and stakeholders to invest in the forestry sector.
To this end, the minister noted that the GFC will continue its push towards downstream processing and value-added products.
He added that this has
always been a target that the Commission is working towards, and as such there is an intention to intensify the push towards value-added products in the year 2025 and beyond.
In this regard, he disclosed that they have seen 12 new lumber yards and 25 sawmills, which he noted means that more and more people are entering the value-added sector.
Added to that, Minister Bharrat said that several persons have invested in furniture factories. He pointed to the Duravilla Housing
- Minister Bharrat says confidence restored as GFC surpasses production target
programme, which has been expanded and will also see an increase in production in 2025.
He stated that they have also observed that stakeholders are investing, retooling and recapitalising to ensure that the recovery rate is increased significantly.
“When we took over, the recovery rate was way below 40 per cent. Today, some stakeholders can achieve as high as 70, 75 per cent recovery rate from a log. That is quite a significant improvement over the past three years,” he said.
Continuing to focus on investments made by stakeholders in the sector, Minister Bharrat indicated that they have also seen such investments being made in kiln drying.
“So, today we can boast that we have a number of companies engaging in the drying of wood. This leads to better quality of wood products; it leads to better export products as well, too,” he said.
Meanwhile, Minister Bharrat stated that for 2025, the GFC has been tasked with looking at the forest econo-
my, and creating alternative economic opportunities in forest communities other than just harvesting trees.
This, he said will tie into the Low-Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), as this strategy speaks to keeping the forest intact and maintaining a low deforestation rate.
Moving towards value-added in this regard and finding alternative opportunities in these communities will significantly contribute to reducing deforestation even further, while keeping the sector viable.
“It is important and imperative that as a government and as a country, we keep the sector viable,” he expressed.
Meanwhile, Commissioner of the GFC Edward Goberdhan also noted that 2024 was another good year in terms of production in the forestry sector, as both the targets set for 2023 and for 2024 were surpassed.
Goberdhan stated that this is a testament to the good governance in the sector, both at the policy level and the concession management level.
FALMOUTH, a remote community in Region 10, now has access to a safer and more reliable water supply with the official commissioning of a $22.5 million water supply system set to benefit 400 residents.
The new facility was officially commissioned on Saturday by Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal, who, in an address to residents, emphasised the vital role of the new water system in improving one’s health and quality of life.
He pointed out the shift away from unsafe traditional water sources such as rivers and creeks, noting that access to clean water is a
fundamental resource for the community’s well-being. The minister also urged residents to conserve water and maintain the infrastructure to ensure its longevity.
Currently, the water
system serves 95 per cent of Falmouth, with plans in place to reach the remaining five per cent of households located in more remote areas.
Minister Croal announced that water tanks would be provided to
these households to ensure everyone benefits from the new system.
Also present were Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) Hinterland Services Director Mr. Ramchand Jailal, as well as officials from the nearby Bartica community, including Bartica Mayor Mr. Anthony Murray, and Prime Ministerial Representative for Region Seven Mr. Ewrin Ward.
Mr. Jailal spoke of the inclusive approach taken during the Falmouth project, highlighting the involvement of the Village Council and the creation of local employment opportunities.
Falmouth’s Toshao
Gregory Williams praised the initiative, describing it as a transformative development for the village, particularly benefiting essential services like the local school and health post.
The Falmouth Water Supply System includes the construction of a 100-meter potable water well, installation of over 300 meters of pipeline, 55 service connections with standpipes, and the installation of solar panels to power the system. A chain-link fence was also erected around the well site to ensure security.
The project is part of a broader national effort to improve water access in hinterland and river-
ine areas. Since 2020, water coverage in these regions has soared from less than 50 per cent to over 90 per cent, thanks to the drilling of more than 120 wells. GWI plans to drill an additional 60 wells in 2025, with a $2.2 billion hinterland budget already allocated.
At a previous event, Minister Croal had pointed out that the efforts ongoing to enhance water coverage across the country, aligns with a broader initiative of Guyana fulfilling its sustainable development goal (SDG) of ensuring all citizens have access to clean and potable water supply.
Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat (Delano Williams photos)
Commissioner of the Guyana Forestry Commission Edward Goberdhan
Ceasefire in Gaza brings hope, but immense challenges lie ahead to restore the health system – WHO
THE following is the full news release issued by the World Health Organisation (WHO) on Sunday concerning the situation in Gaza:
“The World Health Organisation (WHO) welcomes the Gaza ceasefire, hostage and prisoner release deal, which brings hope for millions of people whose lives have been ravaged by the conflict.
Transmission of infectious diseases has massively increased, malnutrition is rising, and the risk of famine persists. The breakdown of public order, exacerbated by armed gangs, raises further concerns.
Addressing the massive needs and restoring the health system will be an extremely complex and challenging task, given the scale of destruction, operational complexity and constraints involved. Billions in investment are needed to support recovery of the health system, which will require the unwavering commitment of donors and the international community.
WHO is ready to scale up the response together with UN health partners including UNFPA, UNICEF, UNRWA and 67 Health Cluster partners. However, it is critical that the security
T he health challenges ahead are immense. The entire population of Gaza has faced multiple displacements. More than 46 600 people have been killed and over 110 000 have been injured. The real figures are likely much higher. Only half of Gaza’s 36 hospitals remain partially operational, nearly all hospitals are damaged or partly destroyed, and just 38 per cent of primary health care centres are functional. An estimated 25 per cent of those injured –around 30 000 people – face life-changing injuries and will need ongoing rehabilitation. Specialized health care is largely unavailable, medical evacuations abroad are extremely slow.
obstacles hindering operations are removed.
WHO will need conditions on the ground that allow systematic access to the population across Gaza, enabling the influx of aid via all possible borders and routes, and lifting restrictions on the entry of essential items. Also essential are active protection of civilians and health-care workers, expediting medical evacuations through all possible routes for over 12 000 patients (and their companions) who urgently require specialized care,
strengthening and speeding up the referral system to East Jerusalem and the West Bank, and addressing road repairs, rubble removal, and the remediation of unexploded ordnances.
WHO and partners will need a massive scale-up of funding to meet immediate health needs, and to begin to restore the heath system, including the workforce, supply chain and infrastructure.
WHO and partners will implement a 60-day plan to support the urgent restoration and expansion of the
health system. Focus will be on key priority response areas, including trauma and emergency care, comprehensive primary health care, child health, noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), rehabilitation, mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS).
Given the immense needs, WHO is scaling up operations and mobilizing critical supplies and resources for delivery into Gaza. A priority will be the assessment and rehabilitation of partially damaged health facilities in high-need areas. Work is ongoing to urgently increase bed capacity across selected hospitals in northern and southern Gaza, together with the expansion of operational capacities, supporting the hiring and redistrib ution of national health workers, and increasing deployment of international health workers to fill gaps. Plans are underway
to integrate prefabricated clinics and hospitals with existing health facilities to enhance service delivery in underserved and newly accessible areas.
Efforts also are underway to strengthen referral processes for critical care within Gaza and facilitate cross-border medical evacuations. Given the high level of malnutrition and disease outbreaks, WHO is working with partners to expand infant and young child feeding programmes, enhance immunization efforts and reinforce disease surveillance systems for timely prevention, reporting, and outbreak management.
WHO calls on all parties to uphold their commitment to fully implement the ceasefire agreement and to continue working towards a political solution to address the protracted crisis in the occupied Palestinian territory, which is essential for lasting peace.”
First phase of comprehensive ICT master plan slated for 2025 completion
- to give easier access to gov’t services
- $1B set aside for E-ID project
WITH significant strides made in digitisation across the country, specifically in the provision of government services, the first phase of the comprehensive ICT master plan is slated for completion this year.
underway to implement a comprehensive ICT master plan, with the first phase slated for completion by 2025, enabling citizens easier access to government services and faster processing times for certificates,” he said.
processing times.
Giving other examples of the government’s thrust towards digitisation, he spoke on the electronic health record system being rolled out and the electronic medical
records system already underway to connect patients’ records across health facilities nationwide.
Dr Singh also highlighted the over 50 telemedicine sites that have been operationalised, while plans are set to establish more in 2025 and support access to health care in remote areas.
In education, the govern-
ment is working to expand digital learning opportunities as he mentioned that The One Guyana Digital School initiative is expected to provide a digital platform for Grades 10 and 11 students.
Additionally, the Education Management Information System is being implemented in over 1,000 schools to enhance data collection
and the full deployment of this is expected by the end of 2025.
Dr Singh affirmed, “These and other initiatives are [an] example of our government’s commitment to deploy digitalisation as a means of improving efficiency, transparency, safety and the ease of access to services for all citizens.”
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 announcement during the presentation of Budget 2025.
Continuing to speak on digital innovation, the minister indicated that the national
Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh (Japheth Savory photo)
Dr Singh told the 91st sitting of the National Assembly that leveraging digital solutions to enhance the delivery of public services is part of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration’s plans.
Against this backdrop, a range of legislative measures were passed to streamline these operations and improve transparency, which include the Data Protection Act, Digital Identity Card Act and the E-Communications and Transactions Act among others.
“Additionally, efforts are
electronic identification system is being developed and will integrate several identifiers used by citizens when interacting with different government agencies. This will make it possible to access services with this single card.
He disclosed, “Distribution of cards is scheduled to begin this year and a budget of $1 billion is allocated to the project.”
To this end, Dr Singh told the House that the government is also advancing several initiatives aimed at modernising identification systems and services, with a new electronic passport control system at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport set to improve passengers
More emphasis on Human Resource development, infrastructure
DEVELOPING infrastructure and more human resource development are just two of the key pillars of the 2025 allocation to the sport sector.
Senior Minister within the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and Public Service Dr. Ashni Singh, in his budget presentation, announced an $8 Billion budget for the sector, the largest to date.
The minister continued by adding that the government seeks to develop more elite-level athletes and coaches, locally, with a view
to getting to a greater level of efficiency and success globally.
“In 2025, we will develop an elite training programme for athletes and coaches, to improve the prospects for them, and to create a worldclass team to participate at the Olympics 2028. We are working with several other sporting disciplines, basketball, football, table tennis, chess, working with administrators in many of these sports. In basketball, for instance, we will be building tarmacs, and we will be working with coaches to roll
out broad-based involvement in sports at the community and school levels,” he said.
The Government of Guyana, under the One Guyana banner, will continue to prioritise sport and youth development in the 2025 budget.
According to Dr. Singh, the budget will rapidly transform the sporting landscape through significant investment in sports infrastructure.
Last year, the government, through the Ministry of Sports, invited four track-and-field experts to identify talent for specialised training, which saw 23 ath-
West Indies U19 Women crumble to India
CMC – West Indies Under-19 Women made a disappointing start to their Under-19 T20 World Cup campaign, when they were trounced by India Women Under-19s by nine wickets in their opening match here on Sunday.
After being sent in to bat, West Indies were routed for just 44 in 13.2 overs, with left-arm spinners Parunika Sisodia and Aayushi Shukla, along with pacer VJ Joshitha doing the bulk of the damage.
Kenika Cassar, who top-scored with 15, and opener Asabi Callender,
who scored 12, were the only two double digit contributors for the Windies Under-19s.
India’s Under-19s then raced to 47 for one off 4.2 overs to ensure they got off to a winning start, and go top of Group A. Joshitha gave India a dream start when she had captain Samara Ramnauth (3), and Naijanni Cumberbatch dismissed in successive deliveries in the fourth over to leave the score 10 for two.
Jahzara Claxton and Brianna Harricharan also failed to trouble scores for the West Indies, which saw them slump to 17 for four.
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Callender, who opened the batting, and Cassar then added 11 for the fifth wicket, the highest partnership of the innings, before Shukla and Sisodia ran through the middle order to wrap up the innings.
Sisodia ended with 3-7, Joshitha took 2-5, while Shukla snagged 2-6.
Sanika Chalke then scored an unbeaten 18, and G Kamalini finished on 16 not-out to carry India to an easy victory following the early loss of Gongadi Trishna, who was caught and bowled by Jahzara Claxton for four.
West Indies will next face Sri Lanka in a crucial match tomorrow.
letes being named for further training.
Dr. Singh also articulated that they are set to complete or begin construction on several major infrastructural works in 2025.
“The brand new major international stadium at Palmyra is slated for completion in 2025, a new international stadium at Crane will commence construction, multisports stadium at Anna Regina Bayroc, Mackenzie, New Amsterdam and multi-purpose sports halls in Leonora, Lethem, Mabaruma, Mahdia and Mongrippa Hill, commencement of works on the construction of a Cricket Academy in Good Hope, upgrading of community
grounds in the length and breadth of the country over 450 grounds,” Dr. Singh said.
He said that to further boost their efforts to encourage growth in sport, a sizable amount has been set aside for the installation of premium lights to allow after-hours usage of the renovated community grounds around the country.
“We have allocated $2 billion for community grounds, including $1 billion for the procurement and installation of lights, so that these grounds can be used after the sun has set, because, in many of these communities, there is tremendous demand for night cricket, night
football, and night sports,” he added.
In 2024, $4.6 billion was allocated for the advancement of sports in Guyana, including $1 billion to continue upgrading grounds throughout the country.
$957 million has been allocated to continue construction of multi-purpose sports halls in Regions One (Barima-Waini), Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), Potaro-Siparuni), and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) as well as multi-purpose sports facilities in Regions Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), and Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice).
Left-arm spinner Parunika Sisodia finished with 3 for 7 (ICC/Getty Images)
Pakistan’s Khan, Ahmed spin rings around West Indies
CMC – Pakistan’s spinning duo of Sajid Khan and Abrar Ahmed bamboozled West Indies’ batsmen to bowl their side to a comprehensive 127-run victory inside three days at the Multan Cricket Stadium here Sunday.
Player-of-the-Match
Khan grabbed five wickets and Ahmed snared four wickets and the pair overshadowed a career best bowling performance by West Indies leg spinner Jomel Warrican on a day that saw 17 wickets tumble.
Warrican’s superb 7-32, which saw him end with match figures of 10-101, had earlier instigated a Pakistan middle-order collapse that resulted in them losing their last seven wickets for 48
runs after they resumed on 109 for three at the start of the day.
Warrican struck with the day’s first delivery by having Saud Shakeel caught at midwicket by Justin Greaves and then Mohammed Rizwan edged him to first slip where he was caught by Kavem Hodge to make the score 113 for five.
The leg spinner also trapped Kamran Ghulam and Noman Ali lbw for 27 and nine respectively and had Khan caught at backward point by skipper Kraig Brathwaite, as Pakistan were dismissed for 157 in the morning session, giving West Indies a challenging 251 runs to win on a turning pitch.
Khan made sure the con-
test was effectively over by the lunch break, running through the Windies’ top order and capturing the first four wickets.
Brathwaite was the first to go after scoring 12, caught at midwicket as he tried to hit him over the infield.
Keacy Carty made just six before his intended sweep lobbed into the air after hitting his glove to give the wicketkeeper an easy catch and Kavem Hodge was bowled for a duck when Khan’s delivery outside off stump turned back sharply to creep between bat and pad, leaving the visitors 32 for three.
Opener Mikyle Louis was also bowled for 13 as he charged down the track
Walter re-elected as president of Albion
VEMEN Walter returned as President of the Albion Community Centre Cricket Club when the Club held its Annual General Meeting recently at the Albion Community Centre’s Main Hall.
The experienced cricket administrator was re-elected unopposed to serve for a sixth straight term, having also held the position for five (5) years from 1995 to 1999.
Imtiaz Baccus, with over 27 years of service to Albion’s cricket as an administrator, was elected as Vice President, replacing Karamchand Harripersaud who did not seek re-election while Naeeem Khan, an Agriculturalist by profession was elected as Secretary.
Former Guyana youth and Berbice Senior Inter-County off-spinner, now an established Building Contractor in Berbice – Orvin Mangru was retained unopposed as the
Club’s Treasurer with former Albion and Berbice youth cricketer, currently a school teacher at the Port Mourant Secondary School – Adrian Singh, taking up the position of Assistant Secretary/ Treasurer.
Sewnarine Chattergoon, Devendra Bishoo, Zameer Khan, Muniram Lallbeharry, Fabian Naiken, Karamchand Harripersad and Ramalingum Mangali will service as Com-
mittee Members.
Chattergoon, Bishoo, Khan and Lallbeharry are all former Albion cricketers with Chattergoon and Bishoo also being former West Indies Test Cricketers. Both Khan and Lallbeharry also represented Berbice at the Under 19 level with Lallbeharry having also gone on to represent Berbice at the Senior Inter-County Level. Naiken is an experienced cricket coach and administrator who served the club with excellence over the years while Harripersaud is a Production Manager at GuySuCo’s Blairmont Estate and Mangali is a prominent businessman in Albion.
The new Executive will be meeting shortly to name the Club’s Captains, Vice Captains and Managers of the respective teams, together with the Club’s Sub-Committees for the year 2025.
at the off spinner, before Nomad Ali had Justin Greaves adjudged lbw for six as the West Indies limped to the break at 54 for five.
Alick Athanaze was the only bright spark among the batters, with his 55 being the lone form of resistance against Pakistan’s spinners.
The diminutive lefthander shared a 41-run partnership with debutant Tevin Imlach, to help frustrate Pakistan’s bowlers, if only for a while.
Ahmed eventually broke the stand by having Imlach caught behind for 14 with
a delivery that pitched on middle and spun away from him.
Athanaze brought up his fourth Test half century off 49 balls soon after, by driving Ali through extra cover for four.
The match ended in swift fashion soon after though, with the West Indies losing their last four wickets without a run being added.
With the score on 123 for six, Kevin Sinclair was undone by a delivery from Ahmed that bounced steeply on him and resulted in him being caught by Agha Sal-
man at first slip for 10, and Gudakesh Motie was caught by the same fielder off the next ball bowled by Ahmed.
Athanaze’s resistance finally came to an end when he became Khan’s fifth wicket, out lbw after an hour and 40 minutes at the crease, where he faced 68 balls and struck seven fours.
Ahmed then ended the match when he had Warrican lbw for a duck to give Pakistan a 1-0 lead in the two-match Test series.
The second Test bowls off on January 25 at the same venue.
City smash six past Ipswich
(BBC) - Manchester City looked like their old selves as they recorded the biggest Premier League win of the season by thrashing struggling Ipswich at Portman Road to move back into the top four.
After letting slip a twogoal lead to draw 2-2 with Brentford in their last league outing, Pep Guardiola's side returned to its winning ways in emphatic fashion.
Phil Foden was particularly excellent as he scored twice and assisted another of the six goals, with his double coming in the first half.
The England forward got his first goal of the game when he deftly controlled Kevin de Bruyne's 28th-minute cross inside the box before sweeping the ball in.
City added another just three minutes later through Mateo Kovacic's crisp strike from the edge of the box, with Foden providing the assist before he grabbed a third, two minutes before the break.
De Bruyne was again the provider as he picked out Foden inside the box,
Erling Haaland celebrated signing a huge long-term contract this week with a goal
and his low shot squirmed under Christian Walton and into the net.
Manchester City endured a dreadful run of form towards the end of last year, and their players looked determined to remind doubters of their ability with a high-scoring win.
Jeremy Doku got their fourth goal shortly after the break, darting into the box before his low drive was deflected into the net, and Erling Haaland, fresh from
signing a new nine-and-ahalf-year deal at the club, made it, 5-0, just before the hour mark, driving in from Doku's pass after an Ipswich mistake at the back.
Substitute James McAtee rounded off the resounding victory with a delightful looping header from Kovacic's cross.
The victory means Manchester City are fourth on 38 points, while Ipswich remains in the bottom three with 16 points.
Vemen Walter
Three walk-overs mar Night Two
By Sean Devers
AFTER a delay of over an hour, three walk-overs marred night two of the three-night Terrence Alli National Open Championships on Saturday evening at the National Gymnasium.
The card, the first for the year, was organised by the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA), and attracted just a handful of spectators, including Olympian Keevin Allicock.
The lone female fight of the night saw Pace and Power (PP)’s Kenisha Klass registering a convincing victory against Rosehall Jammers (RHJ)’s Destiny Humphrey.
Humphrey seemed tired from the trip from Region Six, and failed to do her talent justice, while Klass showed her class with a relentless attack on the Berbician.
In the Elite category, Joel Williamson from the Rosehall Jammers was all over soldier Nickel Witter in their Light Welterweight contest.
A crunching right to Witter’s head sent him sprawling to the canvas before Williamson hurt him with hard body shots, resulting in the GDF pugilist
failing to answer the bell at the start of the third and final round.
The Welterweight battle between Vergenoegen Boxing Gym (VBG)’s Zonoah Lyttle and GDF’s Damon France was the most entertaining fight on a low-key night, despite pulsating music from the DJ.
Both boxers took some time to ‘feel each other out’ with pawing jabs and dancing around in the first round, before trading shots as the bell sounded.
There was more intensity in the second round, with the boxers punching and counter-punching, with Lyttle scoring the more telling blows.
In the final round, both fighters began to tire as they went at each other, with Lyttle catching his man with effective jabs to the head and chest.
France tried to retaliate, but, in the end, the West Demerara boxer had done enough to take the fight.
In the school boys (3133 kgs) Junior Madray from the Andrew ‘Six Head’ Gym that produced Guyana’s first World Champion, defeated Akeem Quintin (PP).
School Boys (40-42 kgs) PP’s Ronel George beat Isiah Ashby from ALG.
In the Junior Division
GCA’s NBS 40-overs 2nd Division cricket…
(54-57kgs), Kurt Mahase from Guyana’s first Town, New Amsterdam Boxing Gym (NABG) won by a walkover from Lennox
Lawrence (ALG).
Junior (61-64kgs) Emmanuel Sandiford (PP) defeated Hotham Vancooten (NABG) after the contest
was stopped due to a shoulder injury sustained by Vancooten.
In the Elite: the GDF Cruiser Weight pair of
(Police), respectively.
Three batters reach fifties at TSC, register 300+ total against Sophia
By Sean Devers
THE Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)’s 2025 season commenced over the weekend with the New Building Society (NBS) 40-overs second division tournament.
At the historic Bourda, hosts GCC beat Agricola by 111 runs, after posting 296-6 before Agricola were dismantled, 59.
GCC were spearheaded by 83 from Yudhistir Persaud, an unbeaten 63 for Joash Charles, 46 from
Dhanesh Persaud, and 25 from opener Ryan Hemraj.
Shaqulle Lequay on 3-66, Rickford Mohamed 2-47, and Andre Barker 2-54 were the best bowlers for the last village in Georgetown on the East Bank.
Agricola were dismissed in 20 overs, as no batter reached double figures, and Charles returned with the ball to capture 2-12, and got support from Krsna Singh, who took 2-8.
At the Transport Sports Club (TSC) ground, the home team beat Sophia by
267 runs, after making 3137, with Jeremiah Hohenkirk (95), Emmanuel Lewis (64) and Shiloh Adams (51) all scoring fifties, while Jermain Dewsbury contributed 39.
Steven Rose (2-77), Malcolm Morris (2-62) and Dwayne Peters (2-49) were the main wicket takers for Sophia, who were dismissed for 46, with only Morris (10) reaching double figures.
Renaldo Grenville had a 5-for, while Hohenkirk followed up his 95 with a four-wicket haul.
Dwayne July and Akulo Bess won by walkover against Jaqwan Milo (GDF) and Hullman Bovell
GBA’s Terrence Alli Nat Open Boxing C’ships…
Pace and Power (PP)’s Kenisha Klass (right) in attack mode against Rosehall Jammers (RHJ)’s Destiny Humphery in the lone female bout of Night Two (Sean Devers photos)
From left are Shiloh Adams, Jeremiah Hohenkirk, Renaldo Grenville and Emmanuel Lewis
Pakistan’s Khan, Ahmed spin rings around West Indies
Vergenoegen Boxing Gym (VBG)’s Zonoah Lyttle (left) fires a left jab to the chest of Guyana Defence Force (GDF)’s Damon France in their welterweight clash, which Lyttle won on Saturday night