–– among key aspects of PPP’s plans for the future, Jagdeo says
Better paying jobs, quality education, combatting domestic violence, investment ‘vehicles’
By Trina Williams
PEOPLE’S Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo has said that the party, once successful at the upcoming election, will continue to roll out its development agenda, offering better-paying jobs, more investment opportunities for young Guyanese, while placing more emphasis on crucial issues like domestic violence.
Outlining those and other plans, Jagdeo, during his press conference at Freedom House on Thursday, said: “We’re going to focus heavily on better-paying jobs for our people, increasing the quality of labour by better quality education, free education; that’s an important metric for the future, and higher paying jobs, investment vehicles for young people and young Guyanese apart from housing…”
The General Secretary also said that domestic violence is a major issue, in that it is prevalent despite the necessary frameworks such as legislations and conventions being in place.
“This issue of domestic violence is a major one. We’ve signed onto all the conventions; we passed all the laws, but we have to get hold of that; that and traffic… While serious crime has come down, domestic violence and extreme ones have not grown, but are still very, very prevalent. We have to think about that,” he said.
Jagdeo said the party already has a number of ideas, and composed frameworks to execute these plans.
“We know what we want to do in the next term [and] how we’re going to build on what we’ve done this term,” he said.
Improving the quality of life and cushioning the effects of cost-of-living will continue to be prioritised, he pledged.
When the PPP/C assumed office in 2020, the ruling party had had to deal with the
COVID-19 pandemic which had wreaked all sorts of havoc on the global economy.
However, the administration still managed to reboot the economy, and cushion the effects of inflation whilst protecting its citizens, despite being constrained by the pandemic.
The PPP, as a party, has plans in the pipeline to roll out education on financial literacy; to educate all, Jagdeo disclosed.
“We want people to be able to use their money differently,” he said, underscoring that this is crucial to fostering individual wealth creation.
The PPP/C government has surpassed its Manifesto promises, and has even gone above and beyond by launching additional initiatives to bolster healthcare, infrastructure, and social welfare.
Some key accomplishments include employment for over 60,000 citizens and increasing wages for public sector workers, which will amount to $227 billion by this year, reflecting an 80 per cent increase over five years.
Additionally, the delivery of over 40,000 house lots, free tuition at the University of Guyana (UG) and 29,785 individuals being awarded fully-funded GOAL scholarships are also included.
The doubling of the oldage pension, and the restoration and expansion of the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant for all schoolchildren, the restoration of the Joint Services bonus and the reversal of over 300 taxes and fees are among the key accomplishments for this government.
The implementation of a comprehensive infrastructure plan, the stimulation of non-oil investments and removing taxes on private healthcare and education, rolling out a transformative healthcare plan with 12 new hospitals and advancing the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030 are another set of goals that cannot be forgotten.
PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo
‘Let us respect, honour the beauty of each other’
–– President Ali says
By Naomi Parris
EMPHASISING Guyana’s diverse and unique tapestry, President Dr. Irfaan Ali on Thursday shared a message of unity, tolerance and the potential for global harmony.
The Head of State was at the time addressing the opening ceremony of the 2025 National Ramadan Village on Woolford Avenue, here in the city.
Ramadan, he reminded his audience, comes at a very “complicated global period”, and should be a prompt for persons to examine their individual and collective duty to humanity.
Dr. Ali said: “If we are to love our neighbours, if we are to respect our neighbours, if we are to honour our neighbours,
and neighbours in this context are countries living beside each other, people living beside each other, Oh, what a different world it will be in this very complicated global environment; very complex environment!”
The Head of State noted that the Holy Month of Ramadan brings with it blessings of mercy, forgiveness and spiritual renewal.
It is a time of profound spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and communal solidarity, he said, adding that Ramadan also comes at an auspicious time, when Hindu’s the world over are celebrating Maha Shivaraatri, and Christians both here and abroad will soon welcome Lent. All are periods of prayer and fasting.
“As a community, as
a people, as a country we are blessed to be celebrating together, to be living together. We are blessed with Ramadan now, and then soon we will go into the Lenten season. Many countries don’t have this blessing. Let us respect and honour the beauty of each other,” the Head of State said.
The massive event is organised by the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG), the Guyana Islamic Trust (GIT), the Muslim Youth Organisation of Guyana (MYO), and the Government of Guyana.
Building on the success of the inaugural event in 2024, this year’s Ramadan Village promises to deliver an immersive cultural and religious experience, inviting attendees to engage in the
practices, teachings, and traditions of Ramadan within a uniquely designed space.
Last year, the event attracted approximately 20,000 visitors, with 20 booths showcasing vari-
ous aspects of Ramadan.
Meanwhile, Shaik Faisal, during his address, underscored the significance of Ramadan as a month of mercy, love and respect.
He noted that the commemoration of the annual event is a symbol of unity and harmony which aligns with the country’s ‘One Guyana’ initiative, which ultimately aims to foster togetherness.
Guyana secures US$156M in financing to enhance transport resilience, safety –– after World Bank’s board approves new project
THE World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors has approved a new project to support Guyana in upgrading and rehabilitating the country’s road infrastructure.
According to information from the World Bank, the US$156 million Integrated Transport Corridors Project will focus on enhancing Guyana’s transport network in selected regions, ensuring it is better equipped to withstand natural hazards, and provide safer, more reliable mobility for people.
Guyana’s road infrastructure faces several challenges, particularly in the coastal regions, where roads are highly vulnerable to extreme weather events.
“Over 60 per cent of the road network consists
of smaller roads, many of which sit on low-lying coastal plains, making them highly exposed to the impacts of rising sea levels, increased rainfall intensity, and more frequent extreme weather events like storms and flooding. The most recent flooding event in 2021 caused over $100 million in damage to the agriculture and transport sectors,” the World Bank said, adding:
“Poor road conditions hinder access to essential services like healthcare and education, disrupt economic activities, and isolate communities. Additionally, the road safety situation in Guyana is concerning, with a road mortality rate of 15 deaths per 100,000 population.”
The project will focus on upgrading and rehabilitating key road corridors in selected regions of Guyana, with a particular emphasis on improving resilience to natural hazards.
It will implement critical infrastructure improvements such as enhancing drainage systems, stabilising slopes, and raising embankments to prevent erosion to safeguard
vital transport links that support agriculture, tourism, trade, and access to essential services like healthcare and education.
The project will also prioritise road safety and inclusivity. This includes the safety assessment of the entire primary road network, and road safety audits for selected roads, followed by the installation of road safety engineering solutions like crash barriers and traffic-calming measures, and the creation of dedicated lanes for non-motorised transport, such as pedestrians and cyclists.
Special attention will be given to high-risk locations like schools, hospitals, and markets. Mobility plans tailored to the needs of women and other vulnerable groups
will feature in the project as well as road asset management systems, creating safer and transportation options.
“Guyana’s rapid economic expansion places increasing pressure on infrastructure, while the growing risks from natural hazards, such as flooding and storms, further challenge the country’s systems. This project will help Guyana’s road network keep pace with its growth by making it safer and more resilient,” said Diletta Doretti, World Bank Group Resident Representative for Guyana.
The project is funded through the World Bank’s International Development Association, the arm of the World Bank that helps the world’s low-income countries.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali
The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors has approved a new project to support Guyana in upgrading and rehabilitating the country’s road infrastructure
Scientists predict major quake in Chile’s mineral-rich north
SANTIAGO, Feb 27
(Reuters) - Fifteen years ago on February 27, a devastating 8.8 magnitude quake struck southern Chile off the coast of Concepcion, shaking the ground for four minutes and unleashing a tsunami that left 550 dead.
It was the deadliest natural disaster in the country since the 1960 9.5 magnitude quake, the strongest ever recorded in the world. Now scientists are expecting a big earthquake in the country’s mineral-rich north.
Chile is the world’s largest copper producer and second-largest lithium producer. The country’s largest copper mines are located in the north as well as all of its lithium production.
“Every 10 years there’s a big event,” said Felipe Leyton, a seismologist at the University of Chile, adding that there are areas of the country that build up a lot of geological stress through fault lines.
“This lets you see the potential for a big earthquake that lets us say in
the short term, in seismic and geological terms, we’re expecting a big earthquake in the northern part of the country.”
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Chile, a long and skinny country spanning 4,300 km (2,672 miles) in length with an average width of 180 km (112 miles), has the Andes mountain range running all along its western border.
Chile is located on the seismically active Ring of Fire that surrounds the Pacific Ocean. Its mountains and earthquakes are the product of the Nazca and South American tectonic plates crashing into each other all along the length of Chile.
Dr. Mohama Ayaz, a geologist and geospatial engineer at the University of Santiago of Chile,
says GPS technology lets scientists monitor plate movement for any variation and anticipate possible seismic events.
“We obviously can’t say exactly when, but we can anticipate them,” Ayaz said. “Earthquakes
are the result of builtup stress and that stress depends on the last time since the last seismic event.”
Ayaz noted there has not been a large release in the north of the country like there was in the
southern part of the country in 2010.
“So what we’re expecting in the short term, is an earthquake in the north, we can’t say when, but we can wait for it,” Ayaz said.
A view of a building destroyed by a major earthquake in Talca February 28, 2010. REUTERS/Enrique Marcarian/File Photo
Oil heads for first monthly drop since November as economic uncertainty weighs
By Florence Tan and Mohi Narayan
NEW DELHI, Feb 28
(Reuters) - Oil prices eased on Friday, heading for their first monthly drop since November, as uncertainty over global economic growth and fuel demand from Washington’s tariff threats and further signs of a U.S. economic slowdown outweighed supply concerns.
The more active May Brent crude futures slipped 31 cents, or 0.4%, to $73.26 a barrel by 0348 GMT, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures were at $70.04 a barrel, down 31 cents, or 0.4%. Front-month Brent that expires later on Friday traded at $73.69, down 35 cents, or 0.5%.
Both benchmarks are on track to post their first monthly decline in three months.
A long list of factors including economic slowdown fears in the U.S., tariffs, OPEC+ plans to increase supply in April and hopes of peace in Ukraine are curbing investors’ risk appetite and depressing prices, IG market analyst Tony Sycamore said.
“The only counter arguments are the price has already fallen a lot,” he said, adding that WTI is well supported between $65 and $70 a barrel based on technical charts.
U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday said his proposed 25% tariffs on Mexican and Canadian goods will take effect on March 4, along with an extra 10% duty on Chinese
imports.
Economists at Fitch’s BMI research unit said market participants are struggling to gauge the impact of the flood of energy-related policy announcements made by the Trump administration this month.
“Those weighing on the downside, notably U.S. tariff measures, are currently winning out,” BMI said in a note.
Also weighing on investor sentiment, data showed U.S. jobless claims jumped more than expected in the previous week, while another government report reiterated that economic growth slowed in the fourth quarter.
Still, oil prices climbed more than 2% on Thursday as supply concerns resurfaced after Trump revoked a licence granted to U.S. oil major Chevron (CVX.N), opens new tab to operate in Venezuela.
The major strategy shift is aimed at boosting earnings and shareholder returns.
The cancellation of the licence could lead to the negotiation of a fresh agreement between the U.S. producer and state company PDVSA to export crude to destinations other than the United States, sources close to the talks said.
OPEC+ is debating whether to raise oil output in April as planned or freeze it as its members struggle to read the global supply picture because of fresh U.S. sanctions on Venezuela, Iran and Russia, eight OPEC+ sources said.
A pumpjack operates at the Vermilion Energy site in Trigueres, France, June 14, 2024. REUTERS/Benoit Tessier/File Photo
Urgent Action
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has acted appropriately and rightly in calling attention to school-related gang violence.
This is because an escalation in school-related crimes related to gangs is an indication that police authorities, school administrators, and society in general have to take action to rectify this.
The President’s call to active response is in motion. Violence in school gangs is not something to be answered to in policing; it is a complicated issue in society that has to be answered to in every manner.
Challenging the Guyana Police Force to think beyond conventional policing is an indication that Dr. Ali
has an acute sensitivity to this threat emerging.
Indeed, the evolution of gangs in school is seriously in full shape now, not just in Guyana, but also in the Caribbean.
This evolution can have potential to disestablish school life foundations and children’s safety. The most recent attack by 17 youths upon a student who was just 14 at the West Demerara Secondary School is an eye opener to this issue’s scale. President Ali’s call to embrace an overall forward response is to be applauded. His realisation that crime by gangs is most routinely bred by widespread society, family, and individual failures is an ab -
solute prerequisite to solving this condition by solving the source.
Certainly, reaction to things in response is no longer an option; preventive action addressing the source has to be put in motion.
The proposal to have an early childhood development specialist training programme to cultivate instructors’ capacity to address these problems is most attractive. If we can empower instructors with tools to detect and respond to potential problems related to gangs early in life, we can have an in-school first defence.
However, the work is not simply left to school administrators and police officers. We have to get
behind something that provides an environment where children can be valued, nurtured, and have something better to turn to than gangs. This is including addressing problems in unemployment, poverty, and dysfunctional families.
The time is now. We can no longer procrastinate until things get dire. This future is in children’s hands, with the expectation that depends on our ability to tackle this nascent evil in an appropriate manner.
We ought to respond to President Ali’s call to action, and act in solidarity towards making schools safe, and giving better future results to each Guyanese student.
The runner stumbles: Aubrey Norton
IN the March 2020 elections, the APNU+AFC got 218,000 votes. It is unclear how much of that went individually to the paper parties that comprised APNU, the PNC itself and the AFC itself.
What the researchers have that furnishes their research with plausibility is the GECOM publication that details how votes were cast in the total areas of the entire country.
What this means is that in Kitty in Georgetown, in
Christianburg in Linden, in Parika in Region Three, you can know how much the PPP, APNU and AFC got. The researcher has to use logical deduction to know how the PNC, the PPP and the AFC fared. If you take a predominantly Indian village that returned a huge victory for the PPP, then simple logical deduction would tell you that the AFC did not split the Indian vote in that enclave.
My belief is that the
218,000 votes APNU+AFC got came from that section of the electorate that would have voted for the PNC if the PNC did not go with APNU and the AFC. Symbolism in electoral politics in 2025 in Guyana cannot bring votes to a political party. This is where the PNC lacks an intellectual understanding of dynamic changes in the Guyana.
The year 2025 will give no generosity to small parties that belong to an entity named APNU. The year
2025 will not give any recognition to the WPA. The year 2025 will not offer substantial electoral support to the AFC. I will come back to why I use the word, “substantial.” The reason for this reality is that dialectics are inevitable and they will continue to shape the destiny of the world.
The WPA as a living organism died decades ago.
The PNC in 2020 went into an electoral alliance with some paper parties and a dying outfit named, Alliance For Change, the reason being symbolism. The PNC felt that the partnership in APNU and the alliance with the AFC symbolised racial and political unity that was important. It may have been important symbolically but not electorally. I repeat – if the PNC went in March 2020 on its own it would have still secured that figure of 218,000.
Against the dialectical changes over the past decade, it is both amazing and confusing that the PNC wants an alliance with the WPA and thus supports the malignant racism of the WPA. Norton’s decline as an analytical politician is colossal.
Norton must be the only PNC leader that does not give due recognition to the fact that the PNC is a historic institution with substantial following in Guyana. So he endears himself to the lunatic fringe, refusing to realise that the Leader of the Opposition is seen by Guyanese with different lenses as the lunatic fringe of Hinds, Ogunseye, Burke and Benschop.
Hinds can afford to say the most irrational things because he has absolutely nothing to lose politically.
No one will attend a campaign meeting headlined by Hinds. High school kids will not fill the auditorium to listen to Hinds. But they will if it is Norton because they perceive Norton to be a significant political figure
who leads the opposition in parliament, leads an important political organisation and can attract lots of votes during election time. So they want to hear what Norton has to say. For them Hinds, belongs to the lunatic fringe.
Against the background of this reality, it is impossible to understand why Norton would rationalise the political degeneracy of David Hinds. It makes no sense because Hinds brings no value to the electoral prospects of Norton. Should Hinds attack Norton, it will not cause PNC voters to switch. I now will explain why I use the word “substantial” above in relation to the AFC.
I did not write that AFC will get zero votes. I wrote it will not get substantial votes. My point is that with Nigel Hughes as AFC leader, there is the possibility that AFC can steal votes from the PNC. Simona Broomes’ votes will come from the PNC not the PPP. So Norton should ignore Hinds and try to cozy up to people who are likely to steal PNC’s votes.
So it has to be an act of stupidity or irrationality or self-destruction for Norton to whitewash the recent insane, racist ramblings from Hinds. First, instead of condemning the racist emotions of Hinds, he opted to say, he would have used different language. It is not the language of Hinds. It is the meaning in his mind that Norton should address. Secondly, in what has to be a costly mistake of Norton, he told the Chronicle that we should not determine what people should say.
Really Aubrey! What are you smoking?
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.
Expose shoddy work done in your communities
–– Jagdeo urges citizens; maintains government’s openness, transparency
GENERAL Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has called on Guyanese to expose poor quality infrastructural work being done in their communities, so that the government can take the necessary steps to rectify these instances.
With over 40,000 contracts being implemented nationwide, Dr. Jagdeo reasoned that the government cannot oversee the day-to-day running of each project personally, and this is where the citizens’ observations are important.
“We’re open; we’re transparent, and we’re encouraging the citizens… If you see public infrastructure being done in your communities and you see it being done in a shoddy manner, speak up! Post a picture Online! We don’t take it as a criticism of the government if you expose shoddy work being done. We have a duty to go and check it out and fix it, because we can’t be everywhere and see everything the same time,” he underscored at his weekly press conference at Freedom House on Thursday.
Dr. Jagdeo pointed to the construction of 12 new hospitals, new schools, roads and bridges that are ongoing, and supports the improvement of people’s welfare and the expansion of the economy.
These projects are the result of a vision and concrete plan for people-centered development.
However, the GS acknowledged that in some cases, the callous execution of some projects causes needless inconvenience.
He said that as the general secretary of the PPP, whose Manifesto promises see unprecedented expansion of the country’s
infrastructure, he is committed to listening to the frustrations of the people and seeking to have them addressed.
Dr. Jagdeo reiterated that in these cases, the issue is not with the planning of these projects, but with their implementation.
“It has nothing to do with planning; it’s just neglect. It’s neglect, and people not doing what they should be doing. We pay engineers for a purpose; to make sure that things are done well. But they can’t do so and behave like little gods,” the GS said.
He said that the government is not offended or disturbed by the public’s initiative to call out shoddy work. Rather, he explained, the government takes these criticisms in stride, and uses them as opportunities to improve the quality of service being meted out to the Guyanese public.
“What are we here for, if not to improve the public work we do! It is not a failure of the government. In fact, it is the government working to see that we do things well, and we get value for money,” he emphasised.
In his remarks at the recently-concluded Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, the GS expressed dissatisfaction with the Ministry of Public Works’ management of construction sites, acknowledging the inconvenience posed to citizens as these projects get underway.
He explained that while a slight inconvenience is understandable, given the magnitude of infrastructural projects underway, there must be greater coordination among the various agencies involved.
No revaluation of properties in Georgetown, other areas will be allowed
THE government has made it clear that it will not grant any approval to the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) to revalue the properties and essentially impose higher taxes on citizens in Georgetown.
This position was solidified by People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary and Guyana’s Vice-President, Bharrat Jagdeo during a press conference at Freedom House on Thursday.
It was widely reported that earlier this week,
Georgetown Mayor Alfred Mentore threatened property owners that legal action will be mounted if outstanding rates and taxes are not paid.
While this may seem like an innocent gesture from the mayor to collect more taxes so the city could benefit, Jagdeo said that this approach is laced with the opposition’s agenda.
The timing itself sparks questions, with the General and Regional Elections expected later this year.
“We have made it very clear that there will be no
re-evaluation of any property, which means higher taxes for people, in Georgetown or any other part of the country,” the General Secretary told citizens.
Cementing the position, Jagdeo firmly stated: “The People’s Progressive Party will not support this, so I am making it clear that we will not approve any re-evaluation exercise for properties in the city, or in any other part of the country for that matter.”
He added: “If they approach the Ministry of Fi -
–– Jagdeo says, rubbishes City Mayor’s proposal
nance for that, the answer will be no.”
This proposal of Mentore’s, according to Jagdeo, is to create as much “dissatisfaction and unease” among the people.
“This is directly from the playbook of the PNC...” Jagdeo said.
The General Secretary related that he is on alert for these patterns of behaviour, in order to ensure that these actions are not committed, and citizens can be at peace.
Further, the Vice-President brought attention to Mentore’s plans to speak with individuals directly about unpaid taxes.
“That is a recipe for corruption,” he said, adding: “I would urge citizens to not go in there and negotiate any payments with the Mayor or any of his officers.”
Jagdeo further stated that the collection of taxes must not be done in a “par-
He contended that while Mentore’s party, the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R), appears to be getting away with its more than $6 billion tax debt, religious organisations are being hit with significant tax hikes.
“They can fund two years of City Council’s expenditure from just collecting taxes from Congress Place,” he said, adding that the outstanding debt is being swept under the rug.
PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo tisan” manner.
to strengthen security at ports of entry
Fully digitised scanners, stricter legislation ––
PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has unveiled plans to further digitise the processes and systems at Guyana’s ports of entry.
“The next phase of advancement at our ports is to have a fully-digitised scanner system for everything that is coming in and going out,” President Ali said during the opening ceremony of the 2025 officers’ conference.
The government has partnered with the United States of America (USA) to craft a programme to install the scanners.
“So, we are going to remove the burden on our human capacity,” he added.
The Head of State further emphasised that the new system would ensure that every item entering or leaving the country would be scanned for traceability, accountability, and security, without overburdening human resources.
“We are going to have scanners at all our ports, for every single thing that is going in and coming out, with traceability, accountability, and also with storage capacity, so that we can have better security and better management of our borders system,” he added.
The President confirmed that new legislation would
be introduced to impose higher fines for individuals who fail to correctly declare items in their possession when travelling.
He said: “With that will come enhanced legislation that would see higher fines for persons who would not correctly declare what is in their bags going in and coming out,” President Ali said, adding: “So, the burden of responsibility, legislatively, would be shifted more to people, because partnership is about people, and people must take responsibility for their actions.”
The President’s vision for the future includes a phased roll-out of technology and digitisation across the nation’s ports, starting with airports and the wharves.
Dr. Ali said: “You will see technology digitisation being implemented at this next phase at all our ports of entry; that is starting with our airports and our wharf. That is the next phase of development that is almost immediately upon us.”
Guyana is rolling out a fully-automated and paperless process across its ports.
Back in 2024, Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo had said that this system will allow for pre-screening of passengers, and the use
of automated gates, where travellers can simply swipe their identification documents for expedited entry.
He, however, noted that this system would also easily flag discrepancies.
Dr. Jagdeo pointed out that upon entry and screening, all necessary information will be recorded by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA).
“When you enter into the country, immediately that record goes to a government central database that will be able to track you if you come in on a short-term visa. So, if you overstay, you get flagged; if you come in on a particular visa, you can’t get a work permit,” Dr. Jagdeo had said.
He’d added: “We can know who is coming into our country. We can keep our people secure, and we can flag undesirables before they come home.”
Only recently, electronic gates (e-gates) were installed at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).
These innovative gates revolutionise the travel process, offering passengers faster check-in times, smoother security screenings, and a more convenient overall experience.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali
Jagdeo condemns attempts to create chaos in cash grant distribution –– defends efforts of staff undertaking the process
GENERAL Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has condemned attempts by the opposition political machinery to instigate chaos and confusion in the distribution of the $100,000 cash grant. Only recently, a popular social media commentator falsely claimed in a live broadcast that the cash grant cheques were valid for three days. This deliberate move to spread misinformation has led to unnecessary panic, with many citizens rushing to the banks to cash their cheques.
“This deliberate misleading must be condemned; that created a lot of panic and confusion around the country, and they did it callously…They don’t care [about] the impact it had on people,” Dr. Jagdeo said during his weekly news conference on Thursday.
With the distribution process at an advanced stage, the general secretary noted how the opposition only seeks to highlight isolated complaints, brazenly overriding the successes and the fact that hundreds of thousands of individuals have had a positive experience.
“Now, wherever there is incompetence, wherever there is callousness, we should fix it. But I can’t deny the hard work of hun-
dreds of people who share the cheques to our people, and a lot of people don’t want to wait too,” Dr. Jagdeo stated.
He also blazed the opposition for criticizing the taking of photographs of those persons receiving the cheques, saying that this step is important, since it will prevent fraudsters from collecting cheques that are not theirs.
In addition, Dr. Jagdeo reemphasised that it is the
government’s commitment to ensure every eligible person, including shut-ins and the elderly, receives their cash grants.
Arrangements are also being made to deliver funds to those individuals who cannot come out to collect their cheques.
When the initiative is completed, approximately $60 billion in disposable income will have been placed in the pockets of Guyanese. (DPI)
President Ali calls for unity, respect at Maha Shivaratri service
By Cindy Parkinson-Chowbay
ECHOING the importance of mutual respect as a unifying force in Guyana, President Dr. Irfaan Ali, in his Maha Shivratri message, urged Guyanese to use the auspicious day as a time for reflection and introspection regarding one’s faith and spirituality.
While reminding devotees at the Cove & John Ashram on the East Coast Demerara on Wednesday that the eradication of darkness and ignorance can only be done by recognising the importance of understanding and compassion, President Ali also emphasised the need for people to pursue a path of integrity and loyalty towards building a harmonious society for all.
“Maha Shivaratri re -
minds us of the importance of understanding and collective efforts,” President Ali said, adding:
“I believe that through practising these values, we can build a more inclusive and harmonious nation.
“On this sacred occasion, may Lord Shiva’s blessings remove all obstacles from your path, illuminate your life with wisdom, and fill your hearts with boundless joy and prosperity.”
He further noted that the Hindu religious period of Maha Shivarati coincides with the Muslim and Christian observance of Ramadan and Lent, respecrively, which are observed in close proximity to each other.
According to His Ex -
–– AG condemns criticism of president’s attendance at Region Two Ashram inauguration, says religious segregation has no place in Guyana
cellency, this is a unique opportunity for Guyanese from various faiths and diverse cultures to unite and strengthen peaceful coexistence, which he added is an essential component of the country’s identity.
President Ali said: “This year we have a repeat of this coincidence; the coincidence of our various religious festivals reminds us that we live in a multicultural society, and it is essential that we continue to respect and appreciate the various religious traditions and coexist within our communities.
“By upholding mutual respect and understanding, we ensure that our diversity remains a unifying force rather than a cause for division.”
Meanwhile, Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Senior Counsel Anil Nandlall, who was also in attendance at the event, delivered a beautiful rendition dedicated to Lord Shiva before addressing the gathering of Hindus and non-Hindus.
The AG stated in his presentation that while Hindus are celebrating one of the major holidays on their calendar (Maha Shivaratri), the country recently concluded its celebration of Mashramani, with Phagwah, Ramadan, and Easter approaching.
According to the AG, Guyanese ought to recognise how blessed and privileged they are to live in a country where every ethnicity is free to celebrate their culture and practise their religion, especially in a world
where many are dying for the same rights.
He said: “[Places like the Middle East and Gaza] and other places around the world, people are still dying simply to celebrate and to observe their religious practices and faith.
“Here in Guyana, we do it seamlessly, and we do not do it ritualistically only. In our legal system, these religious freedoms; these cultural liberties, and these freedoms of expression of every type are protected by the highest form of protection in our country.”
AG Nandlall urged the nation to maintain its commitment to respecting and promoting the culture and beliefs of others. He also reminded that all citizens are responsible for safeguarding their rights to practice their religion.
Additionally, the AG encouraged all Guyanese to
collectively and emphatically oppose any threat that may arise from anyone or from any source.
AG also shed light on the recent “unfortunate and misguided” criticisms aimed at President Ali’s attendance as a devout Muslim at the inauguration of the new Hindu Ashram on the Essequibo Coast.
According to him, there is no room for religious segregation or segregation of any kind in Guyana.
“In Guyana, we are all Muslims, we are all Hindus, we are all Christians, and we are all part of the faith of every religion that is practised in this country.”
Maha Shivaratri is referred to as “the great night of Lord Shiva”, and reminds the Hindu community of overcoming darkness and ignorance in their lives.
His Excellency, President Dr. Irfaan Ali speaking at the Maha Shivaratri Ceremony at Cove and John Ashram on Wednesday
Attorney-General Anil Nandlall, SC
Capoey rakes in steady income from ‘Tambaqui’ harvest
–– over 3,000lbs recorded so far for this year
By Indrawattie Natram
ous development projects aimed at improving the village’s infrastructure and resources.
The latest harvest has once again proven the project’s economic value, with approximately 3,000 lbs of Tambaqui successfully harvested so far for 2025. According to Toshao of
THE Capoey village in Region Two continues to benefit from the Tambaqui Cage Culture Project, a community-run initiative under the Ministry of Agriculture’s Cage Aquaculture Programme.
Capoey, Wendy Francis, the project not only generates a steady income but also supports community development initiatives.
The Capoey Village Council sells the harvested fish, and the earnings are reinvested into vari -
village in Region Two continues to benefit from the
The project provides employment for several community members, including Franklyn Seeram, who is actively involved in feeding and caring for the fish.
Once the fish reaches
harvesting size, residents engaged in the initiative assist in the process. The Tambaqui is then sold within the Capoey community and to customers along the Essequibo Coast.
Seeram emphasised the project’s impact, noting: “This is a very beneficial project for our community, and we want to thank the
Government of Guyana for investing in it. It provides a reliable income for Capoey.”
The Tambaqui Cage Culture Project stands as a model for sustainable aquaculture, ensuring both food security and economic growth while enhancing the livelihoods of Capoey residents.
Cage Culture Project, a community-run initiative under the Ministry of Agriculture’s
The Capoey
Tambaqui
Cage Aquaculture Programme
LNDCH4 remains committed to Gas-to-Energy project
–– actively engaging stakeholders to address technical complexities, logistical considerations
LNDCH4 Guyana, which is involved in the Gas-to-Energy (GtE) project, has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to Guyana’s energy transformation.
“LNDCH4 Guyana recognises the strategic importance of this landmark project to Guyana’s energy security and economic development. LNDCH4 Guyana is actively collaborating with all stakeholders to address technical complexities and logistical considerations,” the company said in a press release on Thursday.
“Following positive meetings with the Government of Guyana and other key stakeholders, we have implemented enhanced project management protocols, and increased resource allocation to accelerate progress while maintaining the highest quality and safety standards,” LNDCH4 said.
The company added: “LNDCH4 Guyana appreciates the Government of Guyana’s continued partnership as we work through this process. We remain fully committed to delivering this transformative infrastructure that will power Guyana’s future.”
The role of LNDCH4 in the GtE project is
building out the integrated facility, while Kalpataru Projects International Limited is establishing the transmission lines and substation needed to deliver electricity.
ExxonMobil Guyana has completed the construction of a pipeline that will allow natural gas to be transported from offshore Stabroek Block’s Liza oilfield to the integrated gas processing facility in Wales.
Earlier this year, Guyana and the United States Export-Import (EXIM) Bank signed a US$527 million loan to further support the development of the GtE project.
This highly-anticipated project will see a 200-kilometre pipeline bringing gas from the Liza Destiny and the Liza Unity Floating Production fields onshore.
Upon arrival at this West Bank Demerara facility, the pipeline will continue for approximately 25 kilometres to the Natural Gas Liquid (NGL) plant to be constructed in Wales.
The GtE project, once completed, will have significant impact on the country’s economy, attracting sustainable investments across various sectors, and creating numerous job opportunities.
Peace, conflict prevention must be a life-long commitment, endeavour
–– Dr. Singh says as ‘peace pole’ unveiled at New Amsterdam Park
By Bebi Shafeah Oosman
MINISTER
of Finance,
He stressed this point during an unveiling ceremony for a peace pole at the New Amsterdam Recreational Park last Saturday.
Minister Singh relat -
Dr. Ashni Singh, has emphasised the importance of peace and conflict prevention as a life-long commitment and endeavour and not just an occasional pursuit.
ed that the peace pole is extremely symbolic as it serves as a reminder that peace should prevail across the world at all times.
He said: “This objective of peace and understanding, conflict prevention and
conflict avoidance, is not an objective that we must only remind ourselves of when we see the peace pole, or during World Peace and Conflict Prevention Month, this is an objective that we must associate with
ourselves with and commit ourselves to as a life long commitment and a life long endeavour.”
Vice President of the Rotaract Club of New Amsterdam, Molandra Simon, who spearheaded the project, shared a message of standing united under one timeless message “May peace prevail on earth.”
She said: “As we gather around this peace pole, we are not just planting a symbol in the ground, we are planting hope, commitment, and a shared vision for a better world.”
Simon said the pole represents something much more than words, noting: “it is a beacon of peace, a commitment to humanity, and an invitation for all of us to come together in the pursuit of harmony, justice, and love.”
She further advised young people: “You are the heartbeat of our future. Your energy, creativity, and unshakable belief in a better tomorrow are the very foundations upon which this peace stands. You are the torchbearers of change, the visionaries who can transform the world with the power of compassion and understanding. Never underestimate the impact you can have.”
Simon then reminded the government officials gathered that their duty is to be the protector of peace, “the builder of a just and fair society for all citizens.”
She said: “Peace does not simply come from the absence of conflict but from the presence of fairness, opportunity, and respect for all
people. You have the power to create systems that uplift every individual, regardless of their background, beliefs, or status. Let this peace pole inspire you to continue working for policies that promote equality, education, healthcare, and opportunity, because when peace is embedded in the foundation of a nation, every citizen can flourish.”
Notably, the Rotaract Club of New Amsterdam’s peace pole is the first for Guyana on the world’s peacepole map.
Yuvindra Sookraj, a Director of the Rotaract Club of New Amsterdam, will be leading a blood drive which will take place in front of R. Sookraj & Sons, located at 10 Main Church Street, New Amsterdam, Region Six, on Saturday, March 8. Blood donations play a crucial role in saving lives, as they help patients undergoing surgeries, individuals with chronic illnesses, accident victims, and those in need of emergency medical care.
With blood shortages being a common challenge, initiatives like this ensure that hospitals and medical facilities have an adequate supply to meet urgent needs.
The Rotaract Club of New Amsterdam continues to uphold its commitment to service and community welfare through impactful projects like this blood drive. Community members were encouraged to participate and donate, as every contribution has the potential to make a life-saving difference.
‘Liming and Healing’ podcast brings mental health awareness to the forefront
MENTAL health and the stigma surrounding it in Guyana is one that has lessened to an extent, as awareness has been brought to the forefront with the evolution of social media.
Drawing attention to this, Guyanese sisters Shaka McQueen and Kaiana McQueen have started a podcast called ‘Liming and Healing’ through which they have been spreading “good vibes and promoting healing.”
In some Caribbean countries, the term “liming is used to describe hanging out and socialising with friends and loved ones and having a good time. But the conversation goes a bit deeper, and this is how the podcast got its name.
Its focus goes beyond bringing awareness to mental health on a wider stage for Guyanese and persons from the Caribbean as it speaks to general health and wellness and strongly highlights the importance of self-care. At the same time, this alluring podcast brings Guyana and Guyanese culture to light,
connecting those close and far to our country.
Originally, the sisters grew up in Linden, Guyana, before moving to the United States. Although they reside in different states, they make the most of time when they are together.
Liming and Healing was launched in December of 2023. However, the first podcast was released in February 2024. The sisters said they had spent months prior discussing the concept before deciding it was time to launch.
As of right now, season one of Liming and Healing has been completed with 24 episodes available on YouTube for viewing. They stated that mental health is a core part of our identity.
Shaka explained, “That’s why we’re called Liming and Healing. I feel like Caribbean people, you can’t fix nothing if we don’t get a little liming inside; it can’t be too serious,” she said.
In continuing, she said that one of the reasons why people suffer with mental health is because they suffer
in silence, often thinking that they are alone.
Adding to this, Kaiana related that although they are not licensed therapists, for the people watching their content, it might be the closest thing they may ever have to an actual therapist.
Armed with wisdom garnered from things that they’ve learned, the sisters share this with their social media community, bringing awareness and offering alternate solutions to issues that may be experienced by their viewers.
In the future, they highlighted that the aim is to collaborate with other creators, especially those who share the same visions, whether they are therapists, dietitians and other professions, to bring about awareness.
One of the areas they are passionate about is diabetes and how it affects the Caribbean. According to the sisters, it is an epidemic within Caribbean communities, with little to no awareness about it.
Noting that it has been overwhelmingly positive, Shaka stated, “we know in the Caribbean, a lot of these things are taboo because, you know, they don’t want to talk about anything that’s going to rock the boat, but we’re here to rock the boat.”
Touching on the Guyanese culture, Kaiana said that her American friends are very intrigued by it.
She said: “Having an insight from us, like about our cultural norms, our food, because we have an episode where we cook. We had like a blog style episode where we cooked recipes from two Guyanese chefs, Chef Dev, Devan Rajkumar and Chef Althea Brown, aka Metemgee, and we highlighted these Guyanese culinary artists and their food.”
The podcast, along with reels made by the sisters can be found on the Liming and Healing social media pages: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. (Faith Greene)
Although the podcast is a year old, the sisters said they have been receiving tremendous support from their friends and family.
Shaka and Kaiana McQueen (Photo: Liming and Healing/Facebook)
AUOPS launches groundbreaking initiative to tackle root causes of crime
THE American University of Peace Studies (AUOPS) in collaboration with AUOPS Research USA on Thursday hosted a research conference and launch ceremony for the Combating Crime and Violence through Interact, Collaborate, Engage and Support (ICES) programme.
The one-day research conference which was held under the theme, “Mind Matters, Exploring the Science of Emotions and Aggression for Safety”, saw the university’s students presenting the findings of their research on crime and violence, aggression and law enforcement agencies. Additionally, they presented policies that can be implemented to curb crime-related issues.
Director of Prisons Nicklon Elliot commended the students for their hard work in their respective research topic areas.
He noted that research is an essential tool for development, in one’s professional as well as personal life.
According to the Prison Head, at the level of the prison, one of the concepts is ensuring that its decision making is determined or driven by data management.
“We don’t want to make
our policies, and we do not want to develop a programme if we do not have evidence. So, our decisions that we are making must be evidence based, and, it must be the same for you and your organisation. So, whatever you do, it must be based on facts. It must be based on information that you received, and of course, not only receiving the information, it must be validated,” he expressed.
The director challenged persons to partner with the Prison Service to research a number of areas, to understand why a person had committed the offence they were incarcerated for.
He said this will aid in informing the prison system and all stakeholders about what can be done at their level to reduce these
acts. This in turn will not only help our nation to move forward but it will see a decline in the prison population.
Meanwhile, President and Chief Executive Officer of AUOPS, Dr. Eton Simon stated that we are embarking on a critical moment in human development called research.
“You need to get busy with research. Every department should have a research department right now in this country so that you can fast-track the transitional changes that are taking place in the country right now,” Dr. Simon said.
While emphasising that there are many available opportunities, he urged his audience to fast track their thinking and expand their consciousness to prepare
for all of the changes that are going to come someday, for which research will be needed.
“Every single department within this government should have a research department to speed up the process of knowledge so that knowledge can guide the policies that you’re making within these departments,” he said.
The AUOPS President indicated that there is need for more research studies to be done so that we can have critical information while collecting data to help in the decision-making process for the future of Guyana.
Adding to this, AUOPS Dean of Academic Affairs, Dr. Nadine Ramsarran said it is now time to focus on a proactive approach and not
a reactive one to solve and prevent crime.
Through the launch of the initiative, the Dean said that AUOPS will be sending psychologists into each administrative region to gather data to understand what the root cause of crime in those areas is.
“That is something that we are now looking at. And when we are looking at criminals, we need to look at their thought process; we have to look at their views,” she said before questioning what is the driving force that allows someone to brutally kill another person.
She explained that when psychologists visit communities, they will be gathering data which will be analysed. This will lead to collaboration with the
criminal justice system which includes the Joint Services, law enforcement, the Supreme Court, and the prison system, providing skills training and mentorship programmes to persons in communities across the country. Further, this will offer counselling and intervention to young people.
“We want them to realise that there is much more out there for them. We want them to identify their purpose,” she said adding, “It takes all of us, the correctional facilities, the law enforcement agencies, and the judiciary to come together as one, to put the policy in place and let ICES work, preventing crime and violence through ICES,” she said.
CARICOM reviewing regional telecommunications environment
PRIME Minister of Grenada, Dickon Mitchell, will lead a review of the telecommunications environment in the Region.
Prime Minister Mitchell is Lead Head of Government with responsibility for Science and Technology in the CARICOM Quasi Cabinet.
The Prime Minister and Premier of Bermuda, David Burt, will support Prime Minister of Barbados and Chair of CARICOM, Mia Amor Mottley, to review the sector’s environment, with
a view to creating a competitive environment where customers and providers are treated fairly.
Addressing the media at the end of the 48th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM, Prime Minister Mottley referred to the annual billion-dollar earnings of some communication platforms and services from which the Region does not benefit economically.
“We were informed that (these entities) earn as much
as $11.6 billion a year and they pay no taxes. There is no contribution in any way to the regional economy, and, at the same time, the absence of revenue to the telecommunications firms means that at the very time that we need to be looking at re-investment to make our telecommunications infrastructure sturdier, it is not there,” the Chairman said.
“We are at the stage of exploration, but Premier Burt and Prime Minister
Mitchell will work with me to be able to put the community in a position to be able to better level the playing field to ensure that there is fairness to the consumer, fairness to the provider and a competitive environment. We are conscious that the Caribbean, as a region of small states, has higher telecommunication costs than we would normally like to see as compared to other regions,” Prime Minister Mottley said. (CARICOM)
President and CEO of AUOPS, Dr. Eton Simon
Director of Prisons Nicklon Elliot
Dean of Academic Affairs, AUOPS, Dr. Nadine Ramsarran (Photos by Delano Williams)
Couple dies in accident at Eccles ‘Dump Site’ Road
TWO persons have tragically lost their lives in an accident at Eccles ‘Dump Site’ Road, East Bank Demerara (EBD).
According to information from the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the victims are 39-year-old Shane Tyndall and his partner, 35-year-old Shabeca Gordon.
Police said the incident, which occurred around 08:00 hrs on Thursday, involved motorcar #PAJ 375 owned by Gordon and driven by Tyndall.
“Enquiries disclosed that, from all indications, the car was proceeding east along the northern driving lane of Dump Site Road at a fast rate when the driver lost control and collided with a concrete rail on the edge of the road.
“As a result of the col-
lision, the vehicle 'flipped' several times and ended up 130 feet further east, into a trench on the northern side of the road and became submerged. The driver and occupant were pinned down for some time in the vehicle, and they were later taken out of the car by public-spirited citizens in an unconscious condition,” the GPF said.
Police related that the ambulance service was summoned to the scene and arrived shortly after with a team of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs).
Both the driver and occupant of the vehicle were pronounced dead at the scene. The bodies are at the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home awaiting post-mortem examinations, as investigations continue.
Smooth, efficient cash grant distribution underway in Georgetown
THE Government’s cash grant distribution is well underway across various locations in South and North Georgetown, with the process proceeding smoothly.
Beneficiaries are reminded to walk with a valid form of identification—either a
identification will also be accepted. This means that those who registered using a national ID card may uplift their grant with a passport and vice versa.
Additionally, the Ministry is actively engaging the Attorney General’s office to
national ID card or a passport—to uplift their grants.
In an effort to ensure accessibility and convenience, the Ministry of Finance has announced that while it is preferable for individuals to present the same ID they used during registration, an alternative valid form of
develop a seamless process that will allow eligible family members to collect grants on behalf of individuals who registered but have since passed away. The finalised procedures for this will be published shortly, ensuring transparency and ease for affected families.
When contacted by this publication Finance Secretary, Sukrishnalall Pasha, stated that the Ministry of Finance prioritised the needs of vulnerable groups, including senior citizens, bedridden individuals, and pregnant mothers. These beneficiaries may request home delivery of their grants through a family member at the distribution centre, a move that underscores the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring that assistance reaches those in need without unnecessary hardship.
The distribution process is taking place from February 26 to March 1, 2025, between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM, at several convenient locations, including: Festival City Sunflower Circle Ground; Tukeit Ground, St. Pius School Ground, East Ruimveldt Community Ground, West Ruimveldt Community Ground, Darcus Ground, National Park (Thomas Lands), Lamaha Street Walkway (Vlissengen Road, Queenstown), Lamaha Street Walkway (Albert Street, Albertown) and Parade Ground.
According to Pasha, the Government of Guyana remains committed to ensuring that the distribution
process remains seamless and efficient, reflecting the government’s dedication to transparency, accessibility,
and public welfare. Beneficiaries are encouraged to visit their nearest distribution site with
the necessary identification and take advantage of the government’s initiative to support its citizens.
Two persons have tragically lost their lives in an accident at Eccles ‘Dump Site’ Road, East Bank Demerara Dead: Shane Tyndall and Shabeca Gordon
sites.
‘More in Guyana, for Guyana’
- Saint Jhn brings industry, networking insights to local music scene
GUYANESE-AMERICAN
rapper and singer Saint Jhn, in partnership with Exxon Mobil Guyana and Creative Titans GY, kicks off the Develop Home Initiative—empowering local creatives to dominate and thrive in the entertainment industry.
Earlier this week, Saint Jhn hosted an event at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown. That aimed to give artistes and creators a platform to network and engage in meaningful dialogue to enhance their careers. Through this, the artiste had open dialogue on the economic evolution in the country, music and a wide range of other topics.
During the interactive sessions, the artiste “dropped gems and insight” of the industry, and pointed out plans to do more in Guyana, for Guyana, as part of his Develop Home Initiative.
Hits and Jams (HJ) Director, Kerwin Bollers, Soca artiste Omaiah Hall, Founder of BPM Guyana, Tariq Dahkil, and Music Industry Executive & Tech Entrepreneur, Ron Telford who were present at the networking event, engaged in a fruitful and dynamic panel discussion aimed at educating local artistes and entertainers on the business of the industry, specifically, the music business.
The HJ Executive highlighted the crucial need for artistes to blend approaches, while also emphasising how radio remains a powerful tool for artistes’ development. He said however, that it should be integrated with digital platforms and other mediums for sustained success.
The rapper, during an interview on the HJ Boom Station, 94.1FM, further re-
flected on his recent visit back home.
“I think that's important because my role here is important. There's a real job to be done for what my responsibility is musically,” the rapper said, adding, “I've proven a concept. This is how this works: somebody has to do something at a level that we haven't seen that looks like us, that represents us.”
The grammy winning star related that persons have to create a plan or system that can be beneficial to more persons. He stated that we can't operate from random scarcity or think things seldom happen.
“It has to be a system like…we have culture here. We have things that are important. I'm a part of it. I'm a product of a Guyanese culture, either broken or fixed. I'm a product of it. So if I can exist, more people like me
a part of the growth and the
trajectory ensuring that a channel stays open to harness local talents.
Saint Jhn acknowledged that while he appreciates people taking the time to listen to his music and show interest, he hadn't fully realised the impact he was making or how many people he was representing.
“I just knew that we needed to be seen. It needs to be more of us. And that's that simple for me.”
Saint Jhn returned to Guyana in time for the 55th Republic Day festivities, which saw him on the road interacting with Guyanese at Mash in Georgetown.
During his short stay, he was able to meet with artistes in Linden, Region Ten as well. There, he engaged residents and youths.
(Faith Greene)
Michelle Trachtenberg, Gossip
Girl and Buffy actress, dies at 39
ACTRESS Michelle Trachtenberg, who rose to fame as a child star in the 1990s and 2000s, has died at the age of 39.
Police in Manhattan said they responded to an emergency call on Wednesday morning and found Trachtenberg "unconscious and unresponsive". She was pronounced dead at the scene.
The US actress was best known for playing Buffy the Vampire Slayer's younger sister Dawn Summers, and later took on the role of manipulative socialite Georgina Sparks in Gossip Girl as an adult.
Trachtenberg made her film debut in Harriet the Spy in 1996, and also appeared in several Nickelodeon productions.
Co-stars paid tribute to her, describing her as a "fiercely intelligent" person who "cared deeply" about her work.Her family's representatives con-
firmed her death in a statement.
"It is with great sadness to confirm that Michelle Trachtenberg has passed away. The family requests privacy for their loss," it said.
Authorities said her death was not being treated as suspicious.
"Criminality is not suspected. The medical examiner will determine the cause of death.
The investigation remains ongoing," the NYPD said in a statement.
Trachtenberg got her start in acting at age nine on the Nickelodeon television series, ‘The Adventures of Pete & Pete’.
In the early 2000s, she was nominated for several acting awards - including a Daytime Emmy Award - for her role in
Buffy the Vampire Slayer. She also starred in films including EuroTrip, Ice Princess, Killing Kennedy, and Sister Cities.
Blake Lively, a Gossip Girl co-star, said everything Trachtenberg did "she did 200%".
"She laughed the fullest at someone's joke... she cared deeply about her work, she was fiercely loyal to her friends and brave for those she loved, she was big and bold and distinctly herself," she wrote on social media.
"The real tragedies in life are the ones that blindside you on an idle Tuesday. Hold those you love and have loved dear."
US comedian, Rosie O'Donnell, who starred alongside Trachtenberg in her Harriet the Spy debut, said her death was "heartbreaking".
"I loved her very much. She struggled the last few
years. I wish I could have helped."
Josh Safran, a writer and producer on Gossip Girl, said it was "an honour and joy to write for Michelle for so many years", as she had a "clear voice" as an actor.
"You heard her as you typed," he wrote. "You knew she'd make each line rougher, more real, much funnier - and that made the writing better.
Former castmates also paid tribute.
Buffy cast member, James Marsters, said on social media that the actress was "fiercely intelligent, howlingly funny, and a very talented person".
"She died much too young, and leaves behind scores of people who knew and loved her," Marsters said.
How I Met Your Mother actress Alyson Hannigan, who played Willow Rosenberg in Buffy, shared a series of pho-
tos on social media, including images of the two sharing scenes, and said Trachtenberg "brought a loving energy to the set of Buffy".
Trachtenberg first appeared in Gossip Girl - which ran from 2007 to 2012 - in 2008. She returned to the role for two episodes of the second season of HBO Max's reboot in 2023.
Her last major acting role was in 2021 as the host of a true-crime docuseries Meet, Marry, Murder, which appeared on digital streamer Tubi.
In 2021, Trachtenberg accused Buffy the Vampire Slayer creator, Joss Whedon, of inappropriate behaviour on set, after her co-star Charisma Carpenter said she had been left traumatised due to the treatment she received from Whedon.
can exist. So, I have to do my part,” he shared.
He believes he can be
Guyanese-American rapper and singer, Saint Jhn, during the interactive session at the Marriott Hotel, Georgetown (HJ photo)
Michelle Trachtenberg, pictured in 2020, rose to fame in the early 2000s
Milo U18 schools football championship 2025 launched
ON Thursday, Massy, through their Nestle/ Milo brand, again collaborated with the Petra Organisation to launch the 2025 installment of their famed school football championships, set to run off at the Ministry of Education Ground.
CEO of Massy Distribution Troy Beharry says their contribution is designed to ensure the holistic development of young footballers.
“Massy Guyana and Nestle, with the brand, Milo, are delighted to once again partner with the Petra Organisation and the Ministry of Education, in hosting the
annual Milo secondary school U-18 football tournament,” Beharry said, adding:
“Over the past 10 years, this tournament has become a staple in the football calendar in Guyana.
“This tournament serves as a stepping stone to highlight the talent, and promote the youths for bigger things in football. And I know many of our national footballers would have come out of this tournament.”
According to Petra organiser and co-director Troy Mendonca, the youth will continue to have a platform once again, thanks to Massy
Distributors.
“ It’s a household name in the communities and the schools,” he said Thursday, adding: “I dwell in proximity to some schools, and ever since this tournament started, it has been a household name. Children look forward for this competition, and so we at Petra are very happy to be standing here again today to deliver the eleventh edition of the tournament.”
Mendonca promised the sponsors that Petra will continue to strive to maintain a high level of professionalism to ensure a well-organised tournament.
Bacchus and Gibson smash tons in Bartica’s T20 tournament
THE inaugural Bartica Premier League (BPL) T20 tournament witnessed a weekend of explosive batting, with Inzaman Bacchus and Orrin Gibson both smashing centuries at Daag Point Ground.
A&L Trendsetters set a daunting target of 309-8 after Underdogs won the toss and elected to field.
The innings was dominated by the remarkable centuries of Bacchus and Gibson.
Bacchus blazed his way to 101 off just 36 balls, a display of power hitting that thrilled the local crowd. Gibson followed closely, crafting a similarly
destructive 101 from 43 deliveries.
Massiah Joseph (23) and Shawn Garraway (21) provided valuable support to the centurions.
Despite Christopher Kassim’s impressive figures of 4-33, the sheer weight of runs proved too much for Underdogs. They were eventually dismissed for 127 in 17.3 overs.
Derick Ramdahnie (36) and Curtis Simmons (24) offered some resistance, but David Williams (4-16) and Alvero DaCosta (3-16) ripped through the batting lineup. In the second match,
Gladiators opted to bowl first, a decision that paid off handsomely. Mavericks struggled to build partnerships and were bowled out for 115 in 16.5 overs.
Curtis James (26) and Teddy Wong (23) were the only batsmen to reach double figures, as Delroy Brown (35) and Marvin Peters (3-23) delivered devastating spells.
Gladiators made light work of the run chase, reaching 119-3 in just 11.2 overs. Yusuf Khan led the charge with a stylish 60, supported by Raymond Jabar’s 39.
Head of the Ministry of Education’s Unit of Allied Arts Nicholas Fraser added,
“This tournament forms part of a number of tournaments that the Petra Organisation has been organising over the last decade-and-a-half. And the Ministry of Education, for this period of time, has worked closely with this organization, and we have watched them grow from strength-tostrength, and we are very happy a company such as Massy will be partnering with Petra.”
A total of 24 teams countrywide are set to battle it out in the main draw for the championship trophy, and the
$300,000 cash prize, which will be used for a school project of their choice.
$200,000 and $100,000 are up for grabs for the second and third-placed schools towards a project or items for the school.
The individual awards for MVP, Best Goalkeeper and Highest Goal Scorer will also be presented, along with the award, for most disciplined school.
The teams will be divided in six groups of four after the initial elimination stage with the top two teams, along with the best four thirdplace teams advancing to the
knock-out stage.
The 11th edition of the competition gets underway in March, with elimination rounds determining the 24 teams that will be the round- robin segment of the competition before the knock-out, quarter final, semifinal, and grand finale on May 9.
The round-robin games are set to be played at the Ministry of Education and Queen’s College grounds on Saturday and Sundays, with all the games from the knock-out stage set for the MOE Ground on Carifesta Avenue.
GUYANA’S women’s cricket team showcased their batting prowess in their second Regional Women’s Super50 match,
securing an impressive eight-wicket victory over defending champions Jamaica at St. Paul’s Complex in St. Kitts.
Realeanna Grimmond led the charge with an unbeaten 72 off 131 balls, while Mandy Mangru contributed a solid 60 off 114 deliveries.
Together, they constructed a pivotal 109-run partnership for the second wicket, effectively steering Guyana towards a successful chase
of Jamaica’s 176.
This win came as a much-needed boost for Guyana, who had narrowly lost their opening match against
Barbados by 11 runs.
Batting first, Jamaica struggled to build momentum, managing just 175 runs in 47.4 overs. Chedean Nation (32) and Neisha-Ann Waisome (29) provided some resistance, but the Guyana bowlers were relentless, with Plaffiana Millington claiming 3 wickets for just 16 runs, and Shabika Gajnabi taking 2 for 27.
With this victory under their belt, Guyana is set to take on the Leeward Islands today at Warner Park, starting at 10:00h.
Mandy Mangru
Realeanna Grimmond
Inzaman Bacchus Orrin Gibson
Couchman emerges winner of the GCF Mashramani masters rapid-chess tourney
FIFTEEN-year-old Kyle Couchman once again exhibited his skill on the chess board when he emerged the victor in the Mashramani Masters Rapid Chess tournament sponsored by the Guyana Chess Federation.
The seven-round Swiss competition was held at the David Rose Special School in Thomas Lands last Saturday, February 22, 2025.
Couchman defeated his opponents, gaining a maximum of seven points to win the first-place cash prize.
Keron Sandiford placed second with 5.5 points after losing the battle against Couchman, and drawing with Women’s Champion WCM Jessica Callender.
In an unexpected twist, young Rafael Park, who has been on the chess scene for over a year, won the thirdplace prize with 4.5 points.
His losses came with his games with Couchman and Sandiford, and a draw with Prince Dunn.
Callender took home fourth place and the best female prizes, while WCM Aditi Joshi placed fifth, with both finishing on 4.5 points.
Notable performances came from Prince Dunn with 4.5 points, while Kishan Puran, Omar Shariff, Matthew Persaud, Cosmos Ikpefuran, and Abel Fernandez finished on 4 points each.
he encouraged the players to keep playing and learning the game of chess, as this would only improve their game and increase their level of play.
FIDE Arbiter John Lee officiated the 25-player tour-
Rose Special School and all participants for contributing to the event’s success.
The GCF encourages young and old persons alike to discover the
Cash prizes amounting to over $70,000 were distributed to the first to fifth-place winners and the best female.
President of the GCF, Anand Raghunauth was on hand to award the prizes, and
nament, which featured a 15-minute time control and a 5-second increment per move.
The Guyana Chess Federation (GCF ) wishes to thank the David
world of chess. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for news and events. Become a member by visiting guyanachess.gy and unlock your chess potential.
Krammer gets more support for Brazil training stint
GUYANESE youth footballer Raydon Krammer has started his three-month training scholarship at Academia de Futebol Real in Brazil.
The promising defender, who hails from Kamarang-Warawatta, was met by Sheldon Maharaj, the regional coordinator of Petra Organisation, at Piarco International Airport in Trinidad and Tobago before continuing his journey.
Krammer, named MVP of the 2024 KFC Goodwill Tournament, received a significant boost from Sportway International in Trinidad, who provided him with training gear, fitness equipment, and clothing. He will join four young
Trinidadian footballers for the training stint in Brazil.
The Petra Organisation, which facilitated the scholarship, confirmed that Academia de Futebol Real will cover all costs associated with Krammer’s stay, including accommodation, meals, and training.
Arrangements have also been made to allow him to continue his studies.
Krammer, who represented champions Chase’s Academic Foundation, expressed his long-held desire to pursue such an opportunity.
The Petra Organisation would like to thank all stakeholders, including KFC Guyana and various government ministries, for their support.
U-15 Inter-County 50-over cricket Berbice aims to remain unbeaten in the final round today
By Sean Devers
UNBEATEN Berbice will face off with Demerara today in the final of the Guyana Cricket Board U-15 Inter-County 50-over tournament at LBI.
Berbice, led by their trio of destruction, Richard Ramdeholl, Arif Bacchus and Rafael McKenzie, defeated the Select X1 at Lusignan while an impressive all-round performance from Man-of-theMatch Shahid Ramzan was in vain as Essequibo, led by 41 from Usain Fredericks, beat defending champions Demerara at the LBI ground. Both matches were played on Wednesday.
Despite their loss, Demerara has a superior net run rate to the other teams and a win today against Berbice will see them successfully defending their title while Berbice will hope to win the title as the only unbeaten side.
In the previous match at LBI, where the Umpires lacked total control of the game, an unfinished 41-run ninth-wicket partnership between Usain Fredericks (41) and Eshwar Tilak (12) aided by 47 extras including 40 wides and poor fielding and tactics from Demerara produced a nail-biting two-wicket win for Essequibo.
Led by a 39-run stand between Lomar Seecharran (31 from 61 balls) and Khush Seegobin (13) and a couple of useful stands involving the talented left-handed Ramzan who hit five boundaries from 95 balls in a well-constructed 51, Demerara reached 187-7 off 50 overs.
In hot conditions on a slightly uneven but lightening fast outfield, Ramzan added 51 for the fourth wicket with Makai Dowlin (19) and 45 with National U-13 batter Joshua Bollers (15) for the fifth as the home team’s innings never really got into second gear despite a cameo unbeaten 12 from Skipper Brandon Henry.
Bomesh Lall (3-49) and Timothy Barton (2-27) bowled well for Essequibo who got off to a good start.
National U-15 batter Justin Dowlin (24) and Ravid Fredericks (17) added 31 before pacer Prosper Jacobus bowled Fredericks
and fast bowler Patrice Fraser dismissed Timothy Ramdat (1) at 50-2. When ‘leggie’ Bollers bowled Dowlin on a slow track, which offered prodigious turn and bounce for the spinners, Essequibo were 62-3.
Jathneil Nurse hit three fours in his 25 before he was bowled by Ramzan at 94-4 before Darrius Pearson (6) was caught and bowled by left-arm spinner Henry four runs later.
Lall and Shazim Mohammed fell to Ramzan; leaving Essequibo in a precarious position at 129-7.
Fredericks and Makaya Holmes took Essequibo to 147 before Holmes hit Seegobin to mid-off to the delight of the large and raucous gathering of Demerara supporters including former West Indies Test player Travis Dowlin.
Henry bowled six wides in a 12-ball over as the host began to unravel while a few clear run- out opportunities were missed and over-throws taken as the frustrating ninth-wicket partnership continued as Essequibo snatched victory from the jaws of defeat.
In the other match at Lusignan, Berbice overcame a scare to beat the Select X1 by 17 runs to keep their unbeaten record.
Berbice were dismissed for 116 in 37.4 overs with only Arif Bacchus (20) and Tameshwar Deonanand and Saiad Jumratty with 16, reaching 15.
Fast bowler Jasani Craig had 4-22, left-arm back-of-the-arm wrist spinner Joshua Thomas 4-37 and Brandon Grimmond 2-19 did the damage for the Select X1.
However, the Select X1 were bundled out for 97 in 41.4 overs as only Balraj Narine 44 and Junia Dindyal 20 offered a fight as Richard Ramdeholl 3-5, Arif Bacchus 4-9, and Rafael McKenzie 3-27 orchestrated the Select X1 demise.
Also today at Lusignan, Essequibo also with a win and loss, clashes with cellar dwellers Select X1 who lost both of their matches.
Both matches are scheduled to commence at 09:30 hours.
Luke Cheitan (left) hands over equipment to Raydon Krammer
Chess action during the mashramani Cup
2025 Caribbean Boxing Championship in St Lucia - Team Guyana departs
GUYANA’S boxing team departed Thursday evening for Castries, St. Lucia, ready to trade leather in the highly anticipated 2025 Caribbean Boxing Championship. The tournament, which runs until March 3, marks the return of the prestigious regional event after a fouryear hiatus.
The Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) sent off the largest contingent in the country’s history, a squad of 16 elite and emerging pugilists, with high hopes of reclaiming regional dominance.
Before their departure, the team gathered at the Andrew ‘Six Head’ Lewis Gym, where they were encouraged by GBA President, Steve Ninvalle.
firepower to the squad, ensuring Guyana brings a formidable presence across multiple weight classes.
Middleweight standout Desmond Amsterdam (75kg), a silver medallist at the 2023 Elite Championship, is another key puncher in Guyana’s pursuit of regional glory. He will be joined by Ronalo Sutton (51kg), Joel Williamson (63.5kg), and Leon Albert (60kg), each aiming to showcase the high-level skills honed on home soil.
Tambaran (52kg), and Terroz Wintz (66-70kg).
A seasoned coaching unit will guide the team from the corner, featuring National Coach Lennox Daniels, esteemed Cuban trainer Francisco Roldan, Clifton Moore, and Jeff Roberts.
The Caribbean Boxing Championship has long been the proving ground for the region’s top amateur fighters, and Guyana has consistently been a force to be reckoned with.
At the helm of Guyana’s squad is Olympian Keevin Allicock (57kg), a three-time gold medallist in the 2017,
“I want you to go out there and do your best; leave everything in the ring,” Ninvalle told the boxers. “We want to win, but remember, whatever the judges decide, that’s what we have to accept. But I believe in each of you, and I know you will go out there and make us all proud.”
2018, and 2019 Caribbean Championships. Allicock remains undefeated in this regional showdown and is determined to extend his dominance in St. Lucia.
Backing him is a star-studded line-up, including sea -
soned warriors like Colin Lewis (67kg), Travis Inverary (71kg), Emanuel Pompey (92kg), and Aluko Bess (86kg).
The Jackman sisters, Alesha and Abiola Jackman, along with Zidnan Wray (91+kg) add
The Junior division features rising stars Ken Harvey (57-60kg), Keyon Britton (48-50kg), and Lennox Lawrence (54-57kg), all of whom are looking to gain invaluable experience in their young careers.
Meanwhile, the Youth division is stacked with emerging talents, including Tofina Barker (54kg), Simeon Haymer (63-66kg), Joshua
“The only reason we didn’ t win in 2019, is because we didn’t have a large contingent,” Ninvalle told the boxers, “but this time around, we know that you will bring back the title to Guyana.”
The nation last won the overall championship title on home soil in 2018 and delivered a strong performance in 2019 in Trinidad and Tobago.
Edward B Beharry funds YBG annual programmes for 15th year ...Plugs
$3.5M million into grassroot basketball
YOUTH Basketball Guyana is set to enter its 15th year with the company again securing sponsorship to the tune of $3.5M for its annual school’s basketball festival.
YBG Director, Wayne Chris Bowman, in accepting the sponsorship for the 15th year from Edward B Beharry reps said that the support has been crucial to their work at the grassroot level in schools.
“This Company has been a pillar for youth basketball in Guyana. Edward B Beharry, not only for the National Schools Basketball Festival
but for our year-round programme, would have invested tens of millions into the growth and sustainability of youth basketball and this commitment has directly benefitted tens of thousands of student athletes, transforming grassroot basketball and providing opportunities that extend far beyond the court.”
Edward B Beharry Brand Manager Malisa Jeffers said the company sees the importance of supporting such initiatives that “Continue to shape character, discipline and aspiration of our na -
tion’s youth; this year we are proud to contribute 2 million Guyana dollars in cash and 1.5 million dollars in kind contribution. As a Guyanese company, we are committed to the development of our young athletes.”
Jeffers singled out the support staff and basketball enthusiasm as reasons for the support of the sport, adding that, “To the basketball coaches, mentors and organisers of Youth Basketball Guyana, your efforts are invaluable in nurturing the talent and installing lifelong values, and, to our athletes,
may this opportunity inspire you to strive for excellence on and off the court, here to another year of growth, achievement and limitless potential.”
YBG will bounce off its programme from 10:00 kours on March 1st and 2nd where 56 teams will battle across five divisions, U-14, U-16, Girls Open and U-21 in their challenge series and shooting competition at Cliff Anderson Sport Hall.
YBG will then host their Regional Conference in March and Primary School Basketball programme in May.
Other tournaments this
year include the Tertiary Basketball League, the National Schools Basketball Festival in June and July.
The final tournament
GCB
will be the Titan Bowl schools knock-out tournament and Tertiary knockout tournaments in December.
congratulates President Ali on appointment as Chair of CARICOM Sub-Committee on Cricket
THE Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) is delighted that President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has been announced as the new Chair of the Caricom Sub-Committee on Cricket.
Outgoing Chairman Dr. Keith Rowley revealed this news on Friday, the closing day of the 48th Regional Heads of Government Meeting in Barbados.
Dr. Ali’s passion for cricket is well-documented, with significant investments of time and resources into the sport’s development across Guyana.
The GCB believes his chairmanship will significantly benefit West Indies cricket, enhancing both on-field performance and administrative practices.
Cricketing legend Sir Clive Lloyd has supported Dr. Ali’s selection, and praised the unique skills the President brings to the role.
His commitment to cricket is evident through his substantial funding of equipment, academies, and infrastructure, showcasing a dedication that stands as a model for development across the Caribbean.
The GCB congratulates Dr. Ali on this deserving appointment, and anticipates positive outcomes during his tenure. This is particularly true, given the current struggles of regional cricket, highlighted by the West Indies’ absence from the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy Tournament.
With Dr. Ali’s strategic leadership and deep understanding of the sport, the GCB is optimistic about revitalising West Indies cricket under his guidance.
YBG director Chris Bowman collecting sponsorship cheque from Edward B Beharry Brand Manager, Malisa Jeffers (centre)
GBA president Steve Ninvalle stands with the Guyana team
GCB congratulates President Ali on appointment as Chair of CARICOM Sub-Committee on Cricket
U-15 Inter-County 50-over cricket
President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali
(from left) Richard Ramdeholl 3-5, Arif Bacchus 4-9, and Rafael McKenzie 3-27 bowled Berbice to victory at Lusignan