– Jagdeo tells Finance Ministry as confusion reigns
Bailiff takes cover in girlfriend’s yard after gunmen attack
Peacemaker chopped after inter vening in argument
Min. Indar scolds contractors over unsanctioned works days after VP Jagdeo called out ministr y’s shoddy management of construction sites
Martin Aguilar’s broken arm
Children of the Margaret Rose-Arthur Daycare Centre celebrate Mashramani with a colourful road parade (GDF photo)
Persons at the Mocha Community Centre waiting to collect their cheques
Simplif y cash grant distribution processes
–
Jagdeo tells Finance Ministry as confusion reigns
The distribution of the g o v e r n m e n t ’s $ 1 0 0 , 0 0 0
c a s h g r a n t c h e q u e s h a s sparked confusion and chaos
a t s e v e r a l d i s t r i b u t i o n p o i n t s , p r o m p t i n g Vi c e P r e s i d e n t ( V P ) B h a r r a t Jagdeo to urge the Ministry of Finance to rectify and simplify the process.
Speaking at his weekly p r e s s c o n f e r e n c e o n Thursday at the Freedom H o u s e , G e o rg e t o w n , V P
J a g d e o a d d r e s s e d t h e d i f f i c u l t i e s e n c o u n t e r e d during the second phase of cash grant distribution.
H e s a i d t h a t m a n y persons arriving at their d e s i g n a t e d d i s t r i b u t i o n p o i n t s t o c o l l e c t t h e i r cheques are being turned away because their cheques had not yet been printed. Persons are now frustrated and confused because of being kept in long lines for hours only to be informed t h a t t h e i r c h e q u e s w e r e unavailable.
J a g d e o s a i d , “ T h e Ministry of Finance have instruction to simplify this, w e a r e g e t t i n g s o m e confusion at different places because people registered, many of them registered so they have to verify and then print the cheques so the numbers registered may not be the same number of
c h e q u e s p r i n t e d b e c a u s e t h e y g o t h r o u g h a verification before that.”
The Vice President said that while some cheques may not have been printed in specific communities, the distribution process would proceed for those persons w h o s e c h e q u e s w e r e verified and printed. This was intended to accelerate the distribution process.
However, this approach caused confusion for the remaining persons whose cheques were not yet ready
“ W i t h t h e v i e w t o accelerate distribution, for example, [at] Unity and say 100 persons registered, they have been able to verify 75 [persons] so they print 75 cheques but we want to distribute now, we don’t want to wait on the 25 others to be printed and verified so you can accelerate. When they start distributing, the word gets around they are distributing the cheques so the 25 others may show up too, but their cheques are not there because they have not been verified so they are g e t t i n g t h a t p r o b l e m , ” Jagdeo said.
However, he admitted that this issue is not an easy solution stating, “So this is something we have to be better with. I don’t know how, because you can’t get into each home to call people to say like if it’s a big community 2000 to 3000 people to call everyone and say your cheque is not ready as yet for the 10% or 20% that may not be ready, please don’t come. So, people end up showing up there and they’re waiting, then they find out, oh my cheque is not printed. They will get it, but it just creates sometimes confusion. That is a problem that we are encountering.”
A d d i t i o n a l l y, J a g d e o n o t e d c o m p l a i n t s f r o m people who had registered with a passport but were t u r n e d a w a y f o r n o t p r o v i d i n g t h e i r Identification card instead of
H e emphasized the need for better staff training and communication to address these issues.
“Sometimes when you have a large number of people doing this, people bringing their own views on what should happen. I said to the staff you have to clarify all of these things. You have to make sure you talk to people over and over, train people but sometimes they do the same thing on the ground. And some people go out in these long lines, we put them in place there, then they leave for lunch and don’t come back until 2 to 3 hours later and people are just waiting there. So, we are encountering all of these i s s u e s , ” J a g d e o t o l d reporters.
A s s u c h , t h e V i c e President urged Minister of Finance Ashni Singh to focus on resolving these issues saying, “The ministry has to improve on this Ashni S i n g h h a s t o t a k e t h i s personally and deal with this, the budget is over and the staff can focus full time on this that they have to pay more attention into this. We want to get it out as quickly as possible and with the least confusion.”
F u r t h e r m o r e , J a g d e o announced that Guyanese who have registered for the cash grant and are currently o v e r s e a s d u r i n g t h e distribution process will be required to collect their cheques in person, with no Continued on page 6
$277.9M Mabaruma Magistrate’s Court commissioned
T h e $ 2 7 7 9 m i l l i o n
M a b a r u m a M a g i s t r a t e ’s
Court, located in Region One
w a s o n F r i d a y commissioned. During the
commissioning ceremony, the Judicial Flag was hoisted there for the first time.
T h e c o m m i s s i o n i n g ceremony was chaired by Acting Chief Justice Roxane
George and attended by
Prime Minister Brigadier
(Ret’d) Mark Phillips who, was performing the duties of president; acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Yonette
C
A
s
n Brentnol Ashley; Registrar of the Supreme Court of Judicature, Sueanna Lovell; Principal Magistrates Faith
M c G u s t y a n d J u d y
L a t c h m a n ; S e n i o r Magistrate Clive Nurse and o t h e r j
d regional officials.
The Attorney General in his remarks said that the courts at Mahdia and Port Kaituma can be compared to any urban facility as they contain all modern facilities.
“So late last year, we l a u n c h e d a D e e d s a n d
C o m m e r c i a l R e g i s t r y Authority here, a branch w h e r e t h e r e s i d e n t s o f Region One in particular, this sub-district can access all the services that that a g e n c y o f f e r s i n
Georgetown, right here in their community, and we have opened another branch in the Port Kaituma subdistrict as well. That agency offers a number of important l e g a l a n d q u a s i - l e g a l services that were never accessible in this region prior to last year,” Nandlall explained.
Persons would have had to travel to Georgetown and the Essequibo Coast to have access to the services.
“The point I am making is all the services that are available in Georgetown and in the other regions of our country are also available to you in this region. This edifice, which we are here to celebrate, and which we will all visit very shortly and inspect, stands as another undisputed illustration of our government’s commitment
to the rule of law and r e p r e s e n t s a n o t h e r m a n i f e
h t h e judiciary to ensure that all of our citizens have quality, have access to equality in our justice system,” the AG said.
Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Madame Justice Y o n e t t e C u m m i n g sEdwards, said that as an arm of the State, the judiciary must craft a system that has services and facilities that
’s
Students of the Mabaruma Primary School join Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips in cutting the ribbon to commission the Mabaruma Magistrate’s Court on Friday.
currently the country has the fastest growing economy in the world.
“ S o , w h a t y o u ’ r e witnessing here today, ladies
o d e r n i z e d s y s t e m o f dispensing justice that seeks to meet not only the needs of
the community or the needs o f t h e c o u n t r y o r t h e developmental needs, but also the commitment or the c o n c
justice,” she said.
Cummings disclosed that the court house sports a smart
Continued on page 6
Kaieteur News
Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.
Publisher: GLENN LALL-TEL: 624-6456
Editor: NIGEL WILLIAMS
Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
Focus on the money
Guyanese should be happy with the money they are receiving rom ExxonMobil for their oil. This is the position of Alistair Routledge, President of ExxonMobil Guyana. In effect, what he is saying amounts to this: Don’t lose sight of the gusher of money coming into Guyana’s coffers, it is better not to get carried away by what should be, but is not. Like the peripheral issue of taxes, and all those others that are helpful to ExxonMobil’s profit numbers, but shortchange Guyana. Guyanese should be thankful to the American oil supergiant for its fairness and generosity
It is obvious by now that there is a widening gap between what many Guyanese accept as being fair and generous and what ExxonMobil says that they are, what has been delivered. Royalties at the beggar ’s level of 2% can never be considered to be fair, nor could a murky half and half partnership profit sharing, when 75% in expenses is snatched right off the top of oil revenues. Routledge is thrilled to highlight the money coming from ExxonMobil to Guyana. We are angry and focus on the contract terms that empower his company to pay zero corporate taxes, with ringfencing provisions that are conspicuously lacking We are even more agitated with the Guyana Government’s arrangements that facilitate ExxonMobil’s billions in expenses to be concealed, enable it to block auditors from the smoothest access to its production data With only these few areas segregated and pushed to the center of the public domain, even the numerically challenged can quickly come to one conclusion Taxes and ringfencing stand at the head of the pack of issues and areas, where the big money that should be landing in Guyana’s Treasury does not travel one centimeter away from the company to this country
Moreover, there is an embarrassing side issue on zero corporate taxes paid in Guyana by ExxonMobil The company doesn’t pay one small dime in corporate taxes to Guyana, but it is shameless enough to collect a tax receipt from this country’s tax authorities That is not adding insult to injury, it is a robbery compounding the one from before What type of partner is ExxonMobil when it makes such a neat self-serving arrangement that has phantom corporate taxes written all over it? What kind of company is ExxonMobil that it stoops so low as to collect a receipt for what it did not pay, did not deliver? But the ExxonMobil Guyana President is pleased to sell his company propaganda to Guyanese: look at all the money that Guyana is getting, and which has no equal Because of weak and cowardly leaders, even conspiring ones, Routledge could put on his haughty airs, and direct Guyanese on where they should focus. ExxonMobil grabs the oil wealth of Guyanese for a song and dance, and then has the audacity to tell the owners of the national patrimony where they should look, and what they should leave alone. Is ExxonMobil an oil partner, or is it a modern-day enslaver? The company takes the hog of the oil money through a program of shenanigans (expenses hidden, audit findings held up, trinkets instead of treasure), and tells citizens how to think.
When there is a shady government such as what Guyanese survive under the PPPC, and leaders are the apologies that Guyanese have, then there will always be a company like ExxonMobil, and a corporate chieftain of the caliber of Alistair Routledge to complete the circle There is the spoonful of honey in one hand, and there is the steelstudded brass knuckle in the other Oil money is coming in a trickle to Guyana compared to the cascade of profits pouring into ExxonMobil According to Routledge, Guyanese should rejoice over this, delirious about how they are doubly blessed For one, they have a world class friend in ExxonMobil, and there is the cashflow to prove it In the usual classic manner of oil giants like the one in Spring, Texas, it is not so much what is put on the table, it is what is pushed under it Guyana is getting plenty as it is from ExxonMobil, it shouldn’t get greedy and ask for more Taxes are not happening
Don’t do this to our children!!
DEAR EDITOR,
interrupted by loud, lewd music blasting the still air of Bel Air Village. In my nearly three decades of living there, I cannot recall ever hearing
through our streets!
s t r e e t i n M a s h g ear, accompanied by adults - no doubt parents and teachers.
I s t h i s t h e l e g a c y t h a t o u r e d u c a t o r s a n d p a r e n t s h o p e t o l e a v e w i t h o u r l i t t l e o n e s ? We r e t h e y h o p i n g t o i n t r o d u c e t a c t i l e s k i l l s t o t h e s e i n n o c e n t c h i l d r e n b y b l a s t i n g s o n g s t h a t g l o r i f i e d t h e u s e a n d m i s u s e o f t h e f i n g e r s ? O r w a s i t a P h y s i c a l E d u c a t i o n a c t i v i t y a s t h e s o n g e n c o u r a g e d l i s t e n e r s t o ‘ b e n d o v e r ’ C a n ’ t c h i l d r e n e n j o y M a s h i
Forget past grievances and stories and put aside the narrative of who failed to act
DEAR EDITOR,
On the birth anniversary of Linden Forbes Burnham a
current leader of the People’s N
dedication to reforming the educational system.
This reform aims to better prepare our young
scientific and technological advancements.
I would like to connect Burnham’s demand for free education from kindergarten to university, with a recently published critical report by the World Bank. (Stabroek News, Feb 20, 2025). Dr Jerry Jailall pointed out the
educational system across the Caribbean, including Guyana.
The report drew to our attention “the Caribbean’s education system, labelling it as being in a state of crisis a n d w a r n i n
implemented.
During a webinar on M o n d a y, s e n i
from the World Bank
t e a c h i n g p r a c t i c e s , i l lequipped infrastructure, and w i d e n i n g e d u c
inequities.
They stressed the need f
teacher support to reverse the r e g i o n ’ s e d u c a t i o n a l decline.”
Speaking with parents, s t u d e n t s , t e a c h e r s , c o n c e r n e d c i t i z e n s a n d
o b s e r v e r s w e m a y h a v e already lost a generation, the m e d i o c r i t y a n d u n h a p p y
r e s p o n s e , a n d a w a r p e d
u n d e r s t a n d i n g o f t h e importance of education to national development.
Dear Editor, this includes the prevalent mindset in many areas that evaluates education solely based on the number of subjects students can complete at the primary and secondary levels.
T h o s e w h o t r u l y understand the purpose of e d u c a t i o n c a n s e e t h e absurdity, and folly of this approach.
But Dear Editor and
C i t i z e n s , w h a t i s b o t h e r s o m e , w h a t i s destructive is that at the rate we are going, the children of our Amerindians, enslaved Africans, and children of Indentured Chinese, Indians and Portuguese will soon be made subservient secondclass citizens to the same g r o u p a n d m i n d s e t t h a t exploited the human and natural resources throughout imperial colonialism.
Citizens, I would like to connect two events that o c c u r r e d t h i s w e e k : t h e
i n c i d e n t i n v o l v i n g s i x Guyana Defence Force ranks (GDF) who were shot at the C u y u n i R i v e r a n d t h e policeman suspected to have d r o w n e d d u r i n g P u r u n i River Patrol.
Here I will not address
any inadequacies, such as communication issues, as those have already been dealt with.
I wish, however, to refer to a document prepared in the early 80s titled “Defence in Depth.”
This initiative involved students from our secondary a n d t e r t i a r y i n s t i t u t i o n s , National Service members, the People’s Militia and skilled individuals who were eager to participate in a comprehensive settlement program, particularly along our eastern and western borders.
The aim was to grant large tracts of land to young men, women and couples, providing them with the m e a n s t o e s t a b l i s h s e t t l e m e n t s a n d cooperatives.
This included offering them infrastructure, access to water and electricity, community services, and
other resources, enabling them to produce food and minerals using land, air, sea and river
This letter is not meant to provide extensive details; however, I would like to clarify that we previously l a c k e d t h e f i n a n c i a l resources to advance this p r o j e c t o f D e f e n c e a n d Development. Now that we h a v e a m p l e f u n d i n g a v a i l a b l e , i t w o u l d b e b e n e f i c i a l f o r t h i s administration to review that document.
Necessary adjustments should involve the nation and Guyanese abroad in this e x c i t i n g a n d p r o d u c t i v e venture.
This document may be gathering dust somewhere in the Presidential Complex.
What with the attitude of our neighbours to the east and west?
I remember writing this bit of wisdom at the end of this confidential document that “you lose what you don’t use.”
If the Government is truly interested in the longterm development of the Coo p e r a t i v e R e p u b l i c o f Guyana, and now that the financial constraints are no longer an issue, let us be courageous and bold. It is time to set aside the o r i g i n s o f t h e i d e a o f “Defence in Depth.”
Let us together, I repeat together take a brave step forward; after all, victory favours the brave.
M r P r e s i d e n t , M r Leader of the Opposition, I urge that we sit around a r o u n d - t a b l e , l i k e K i n g Arthur and his Knights.
L e t u s f o r g e t p a s t grievances and stories and put aside the narrative of who failed to act. Our goal should be to leave behind a legacy for future generations - one of a country that is free, knowledgeable of its history, and capable of moving past nepotism and corruption Together, let us march into a future filled with harmony, prosperity and abundance.
HAPPY
MASHRAMANI’celebrating after hard work and harvest.
Hamilton Green Elder
Neither Hinds nor Ogunseye have any place in politics in Guyana
DEAR EDITOR,
This is not the first time that I will be commenting on race relations in Guyana. I did so as long ago as 1994, some 31 years ago, in a series published by Kampta Karran
on “Off erings Race and Ethnic Studies in Guyana”, then, in 2015, when the Granger government held a Roundtable on what they called “Social Cohesion for Lasting Unity and Peace”. T
C o n v e r s a t i o n o n
intends to achieve ethnic
h a r m o n y a n d r i d o u r
c o u n t r y o f e n t r e n c h e d
r a c i s m , t h e y m u s t b o t h accept the ugly reality that we remain a dangerously divided nation and must, both, determine to reach across the divide”.
R a v i D e v, i n l a s t S u n d a y ’s S t a b r o e k N e w s ,
h a s m a d e t h e s a m e p o i n t ,
o b s e r v i n g t h a t t h e r a c i s t s
d e c l a r a t i o n s o f H i n d s a n d
c o m p a n y “ r e p r e s e n t s a
s t u b b o r n r e f u s a l t o p r a c t i c e r e a l i s t i c
d e m o c r a t i c m u l t i e t h n i c p o l i t i c s i n o u r n e w
d e m o g r a p h i c d i s p e n s a t i o n ” a n d t h a t “ w h e r e n e i t h e r t h e P P P
d e v e l o p m e n t p r o g r a m m e s l a u n c h e d b y
Commission (ERC) on 14th and 15th December, 2020. I made the point then and I make it again, “I speak for myself as a Guyanese, not as
a s p o k e s p e r s o n f o r a n y ethnic group”.
I am prompted to speak again, once more, as a
result of the ugly racial
remarks made recently by
Dr David Hinds, the not
s u r p r i s i n g s u p p o r t f r o m
Tacuma Ogunseye and the v e r y s u r p r i s i n g s u p p o r t from Lelon Saul.
O n e a c h o c c a s i o n I
have pointed out that “if a n y P a r t y w h o m w e
democratically elect and
t h e P a r t y i n o p p o s i t i o n
n o r a n y p a r t y d o m i n a t e d b y a s i n g l e e t h n i c g r o u p s u c h a s t h e P N C , c a n n o w
g a r n e r t h e 5 0 % + 1
d e m a n d e d b y d e m o c r a t i c e l e c t i o n s t o g o v e r n t h e
c o u n t r y ”
I n s i m p l e l a n g u a g e , a n y p o l i t i c a l p a r t y h o p i n g
t o w i n a n e l e c t i o n i n t o d a y ’ s G u y a n a m u s t r e p r e s e n t t h e i n t e r e s t s o f
e v e r y G u y a n e s e , r e g a r d l e s s o f e t h n i c o r i g i n , c l a s s o r c r e e d
T h e P e o p l e ’ s
P r o g r e s s i v e P a r t y, l e d b y
D r M o h a m e d I r f a a n A l i ,
h a s d o n e j u s t t h a t
E v e r y s i n g l e G u y a n e s e i s b e n e f i t t i n g f r o m t h e
Lelon Saul, employing innuendo and euphemisms, naming no political party but making it pellucid as to which he refers, upholds and j
H i n d
racism, saying that Hinds’ use of “Lick Bottom” is “an act of love…urging African Guyanese to hold power accountable even when it resides in familiar hands”. Whose power, accountable for what?
His meaning is, however, clear and equally dangerous, in that it embraces a racist agenda aimed at dividing a m
political purpose.
n d
themselves from asking the people of Guyana to vote for them or any political party to w h i c h t h e y a t t a c h themselves. T h e y w e r e b o t
Guyanese, US companies
team up to strengthen Guyana’s power grid
Gu y a n a E l e c t r i c has teamed up with U.S. based company, GE Vernova, to s t r e n g t h e n G u y a n a ’ s electrical grid and provide t r a i n i n g o p p o r t u n i t i e s t o contractors.
The partnership, which was described as “strategic”,
w a s a n n o u n c e d b y G E
Ve r n o v a R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , Douglas Hasbun and coowners of Guyana Electric, Keon Howard and Michelle Howard on the sidelines of t h e G u y a n a E n e r g y
C o n f e r e n c e a n d S u p p l y Chain Expo on Thursday Michelle Howard told reporters that the company is
5 1 p e r c e n t o w n e d b y
G u y a n e s e w h i l e t h e remaining 49 per cent is
owned by the American company Howard, called on women to venture into male dominated spaces and take risks. She hopes that her story would serve as an example to all women.
Similarly, her husband K e o n s a i d t h a t G u y a n a
Electric is in the habit of hiring female electricians noting that “I find most of them work better than the male electricians They clean up after themselves. They wouldn’t be like, hey, I’ll come back and clean it, and, you know, you’re tired at the end of the day So, w e t r y t o h i r e f e m a l e electricians. They’re easy to work with. They listen more, you know.”
K e o n n o t e d t h a t t h e company also takes pride in hiring unskilled persons who have a desire to learn on the job. He said they are trained a n d g i v e n a n e q u a l
opportunity to shine.
“These are people that never… don’t even know what a switch connection looks like. So those are some of the things that we try to do,” he said.
M e a n w h i l e , D o u g l a s Hasburn the representative of GE Vernova explained that the joint venture will be i n d i s c u s s i o n s w i t h t h e Guyana Power and Light I n c o r p o r a t e d ( G P L ) t o participate in some of the projects they may have.
From page 3 c
magistrates and the staff.
“
names of all the communities of this area, but it will take so much time to call all of them and you are fully aware of all those communities All of you are represented here today, and this facility here is for all of you So, whether you be in the hinterland or in the capital city, the judiciary extends the services of a high standard and quality to match the needs of each and every society ”
Minister Phillips said that
access to and equal treatment b
enshrined in the country’s constitution.
deploying of equipment, like p
c i r c u i t b
k e r s , l i k e capacitors banks, protection and control and automation devices,” he said.
H e a d d e d t h a t t h e companies will be looking to train and provide support to the technical staff of GPL and other contractors who will be working on the deployment of equipment for Guyana’s power grid.
“So, we are also working with some EPC that have already contracts with GPL. We a r e p r o v i d i n g o u r s o l u t i o n s t o t h o s e E P C contractors, and where some
“ O u r g o v e r n m e n t i s d e e p l y c o m m i t t e d t
ensuring that these rights and freedoms do not exist on paper only, but are realized by our citizens. It is for this reason that our government invests billions of dollars annually in our justice sector in order to advance the rule of law and ensure our people have access to justice system that is competent, efficient and impartial,” he said.
T h e P r i m e M i n i s t e r reaffirmed the government’s c
justice. He said, “No longer
o endure, as you heard, before long, costly j
urneys to urban centers in search of justice. The same facilities that are available in our towns are also now being m a d e a v a i l a b l e i n o u r hinterland regions.”
Senior Magistrate Clive Nurse will be presiding over matters at the Mabaruma C o u
magistrates will visit from time to time to assist.
Meanwhile, for the first time since its existence, the judiciary has its own flag, which was hoisted at the
The flag of the Judiciary comprises horizontal red, cream and black bars and features the image of Lady Justice. It will serve as a
court’s mission to uphold the rule of law, and its vision to
public trust and confidence t
, effective and accountable justice system. Each element of the flag embodies the principles and t
e Judiciary, with the colors also representing the three levels - the Appellate, High and Magistrate’s Courts.
Simplify cash grant distribution...
From page 2 authorization for third-party collection. He said, “Now if your cheque is classified and we did not want to do this authorization because we say only people who come home and registered then they have to collect their cheques in person. If you can’t come in t o c o l l e c t y o u r c h e q u e , eventually you will get your cheque once you are living in Guyana. If you go abroad that’s a different matter. When you come home, your cheques will be there but we may not want to go for
authorization,” Jagdeo said. M e a n w h i l e , J a g d e o revealed that so far, 545,000 cheques have been printed with over 200,000 of those cheques already distributed, including to public servants. The distribution of the oneoff cash grant for adults 18 years and older resumed one week after the 2025 budget was passed, with cheque distribution beginning on February 14, 2025.
The Ministry of Finance as well as Minister Singh have published distribution dates and locations across social media for all regions.
Co-Owner of Guyana Electric Keon Howard
Co-Owner of Guyana Electric Michelle Howard Douglas Hasburn, representative of GE Vernova
DeSinco Limited now rebranded Acado Guyana
D e S i n c o L i m i t e d , founded over thirty years ago by Mr Frank DeAbreu and Deomattie DeAbreu as a
s m a l l f a m i l y - o w n e d
b u s i n e s s i s n o w A c a d o Guyana, a statement from Acado said on Friday
The name change comes as part of a larger rebranding
Tr i n i d a d - b a s e d A g o s t i n i Limited.
The Agostini Group has operations in 10 markets, clients in over 30 countries and 3,500 employees. Group operations have traditionally b e e n c o n d u c t e d t h r o u g h more than 20 companies, inclusive of brands with strong community ties like Acado Guyana (formerly DeSinco Limited).
“This rebrand establishes a new shared logo and brand i d e n t i t y f o r G r o u p companies, unifying them under one visual identity for the first time,” the statement said.
A c a d o G u y a n a (DeSinco) became part of the Group in 2015 through its joint venture with Goddard Enterprises of Barbados. As part of the rebranding Acado
G u y a n a w i l l s h a r e t h e Agostini Group logo in a warm orange.
The logo features four l e a f - l i k e s h a p e s , r e p r e s e n t i n g e m p l o y e e s , p a r t n e r s , c u s t o m
c
y come together to create a spark of innovation and growth—the driving force behind the Group.
S p e a k i n g o f t h e rebranding initiative, Acado
G u y a n a C E O A l i c i a DeAbreu said, “We have been part of the fabric of Guyana for a long time, and even though our name has changed, we are committed to honouring that legacy in unique ways. As part of the wider Agostini Group and s p e c i f i c a l l y i t s A c a d o companies, we have been able to grow, expand and
better serve our community This rebrand strengthens our position for future growth and reinforces our regional identity.”
The company said that this new chapter for Acado G u y a n a u n d e r s c o r e s i t s position as part of a wider regional presence, and the value of strong partnerships with the common purpose of improving lives through the b u i l d i n g o f s t r o n g , sustainable, and innovative businesses that serve as the benchmark for success.
ABOUT
ACADO
A c a d o e m b o d i e s t h e vibrant spirit of Caribbean commerce and community It is a symbol of the warmth o f o u r r e g i o n a n d a commitment to excellence. Like the vendors who engage
n g i n g people and products together across the region.
The name Acado comes from our “can-do attitude,” w h i c h h a s a l l o w e d companies within this sector to reach across the Caribbean with our products. It also connects us to our core, our m a r k e t s ( M e r c a t
s a n d Mercado are the Latin and Spanish words for market).
As Acado, we are more than just a business. We are a staple and an experience. Our brands create moments of delight and satisfaction, adding value to the everyday e x p e r i e n c e s o f o u r customers.
ABOUT AGOSTINI
Agostini is a publicly traded company listed on the Trinidad and Tobago Stock Exchange (TTSE) which operates across three main sectors: Pharmaceutical and H e a l t h c a r e , C o n s u m e r Products and Energy and I n d u s t r i a l I t s o p e r a t i o n s span 10 regional markets making it one of the largest d i s t r i b u t i o n c o m p a n i e s within the region.
The clock and the cloud
Time, as the ancients knew, is a trickster It slips through the fingers of kings
a n d c o m m o n e r s a l i k e , mocking the best-laid plans of mice and men. In Guyana,
t i m e h a s b e c o m e a
p a r t i c u l a r l y m i s c h i e v o u s sprite. It weaves its way
through the corridors of power and the boardrooms of both public and private enterprises. It leaves behind a trail of missed deadlines,
unfulfilled promises, and unanswered questions.
The latest victim of this temporal mischief is the gasto-energy project. This is a venture so grand in scale and ambition that it has been
heralded as the costliest
public sector project in the nation’s history Yet, like so many of its predecessors, it has fallen prey to the familiar disease of delay
The government, ever the stoic in the face of such setbacks, has assured the p u b l i c t h a t t h e n a t i o n a l interest will not be sacrificed on the altar of haste. Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, in his characteristic tone of measured reassurance, has declared that timelines are secondary to the integrity of the project. This is a noble sentiment, to be sure, but it tells us little about why the project has stumbled. Nor does it inform as to why
Guyanese citizens must once
o accommodate the delays. Why? Why? They ask. Tell them that its human nature cries the answer But is it, and why does it happen so often in Guyana?
T h e g a s - t o - e n e r g y
project is not merely another infrastructure initiative; it is a promise—a promise of a 50% reduction in energy costs, a promise of economic transformation, a promise of a brighter future for a nation poised on the precipice of unprecedented wealth. Yet, as the deadline slips further into the horizon, the promise begins to fray at the edges. The people of Guyana are
Bailiff takes cover in girlfriend’s yard after gunmen attack
A bailiff barely escaped with his life following a ride-by shooting incident Thursday night on Norton Steet, Werk-enRust, Georgetown.
The victim has been identified as 28year-old Shamar Mingo.
Mingo was sitting on his motorcycle speaking with his girlfriend in front of her home when gunmen on a motorcycle rode by and opened fire on him.
Reports are that the pillion rider fired at Mingo. Luckily for the bailiff he saw the
suspect drawing his weapon before the gunshots were fired. It gave him enough time to jump off his bike and run with his girlfriend to take cover in her yard.
Mingo recalled that as he turned his back and was running for cover, he heard a shot fired. Mingo and his girlfriend narrowly escaped being hit.
The suspects continued riding and made good their escape. Mingo called the police who retrieved a 9MM spent shell. Investigations are ongoing.
DEM BOYS SEH
More Roads, More Problems, More Oil Money Gone!
Oh gosh, dem boys seh we gat ten thousand new cars pon de road in five m o n t h s ! Te n t h o u s a n d !
Dat’s like if every man, w o m a n , a n ’ c h i l d i n
Georg etown decide dey need a car fuh demself. Dat mean also dat de GRA registering an average 100 cars a day?
Dem boys seh de GRA mus be working overtime, cuz how dem gat time fuh c h e c k e n g i n e n u m b e r s , chassis numbers, engine capacity, car colour, tint and an’ all dem paper while dey sipping de morning coffee?
B u t h e y, w h o w e f u h question? De numbers seh what de numbers seh, so leh we roll wid it. But wait nah, dem boys seh if we keep dis up, we gon need a road fuh every car. Overpasses, bypasses, u n d e r p a s s e s d e w h o l e country gon look like one big spaghetti junction. An’ guess what? All dat gon come out ah we lil oil money De same oil money we seh gon mek we rich like
Dubai But instead, ah building schools, hospitals, an’ factories, we gon be paving roads so people can sit in traffic in style. Dem boys seh Trinidad done show we how dat story go dey build highway after highway, an’ up to now, dey traffic worse dan a rush hour in Mumbai. But nah, we ain’t learning. We just following de same playbook. Now, dem boys seh, imagine if we stop fuh one minute an’ tink bout dis ting
c a l l e d “ p l a n n i n g ” Ye s , “ p l a n n i n g ” ! I n s t e a d , a h building roads fuh days, why we ain’t investing in a m a s s t r a n s p o r t s y s t e m ?
Light rails, bus terminals, fast ferries—dem boys seh dat would cut down de number ah cars pon de road like a hot knife through butter. Less traffic, less pollution, an’ less money spent on roads dat gon
crack up in two years anyway But nah, dat sound too much like common
sense We rather spend
left to wonder: What went wrong? And why are we always the last to know?
The government’s track record on major projects is,
y , checkered. Delays are not the exception but the rule. Excuses are as plentiful as the May-June rains. Whether
billions ah oil money on roads dat gon be full up again by de time de ribbon cutting done.
Dem boys seh, is like we addicted to cars an’ roads.
We see a lil traffic, an’ de first ting we seh is, “ B u i l d a n o t h e r r o a d ! ” Meanwhile, de rest ah de world moving to trains, buses, an’ bikes. But we? We stuck in de 20th century, building highways like we gon out-drive de future. Dem boys seh, if we keep dis up, we oil money gon vanish faster dan a cold beer on a hot day, an’ all we gon have to show fuh it is a b u n c h a h p o t h o l e s a n ’ traffic jams.
So, dem boys seh, leh we wake up an’ smell de asphalt. Mass transport is de way fuh go. Save de oil m o n e y , s a v e d e environment, an’ save we sanity Or else, we gon end up like Trinidad—stuck in traffic, wondering where all de money gone. Talk half. Leff half
development, the result is
missed, costs escalate, and the public is left to foot the bill.
In the case of the gas-toenergy project, the stakes are p
u l a r l y h i g h T h e project is not only a test of Guyana’s ability to manage its newfound oil wealth but also a litmus test for the government’s commitment t
t r a n s p a r e n c y a n d accountability The recent dispute settlement, shrouded in secrecy and marked by a r e p o r t w h o s e f i n d i n g s remain hidden from public v i e w , r a i s e s t r o u b l i n g questions. Was the delay related to this dispute? Were there other factors at play?
A n d w h y h a s t h e government been so reticent to provide a full accounting of the situation? T
q u e s t i o n s T h e y a r e t h e questions of a citizenry that has grown weary of being kept in the dark, of being told to wait a little longer, of being asked to trust in a process that too often seems designed to obscure rather t h a n i l l u m i n a t e T h e taxpayers of Guyana deserve better They deserve to know why the project has been delayed, who is responsible, and what steps are being taken to ensure that such delays do not become a permanent feature of the nation’s development.
The government must level with the public. It must commission an independent inquiry into the delay, one that is transparent, thorough, and free from the taint of political interference. This inquiry should examine all aspects of the project, from the initial planning stages to the present day, and it should make its findings public. The people of Guyana have a right to know how their money is being spent and why the promises made to them remain unfulfilled.
Such an inquiry would serve not only to shed light on the current delay but also to set a precedent for future projects. It would send a c l e a r m e s s a g e t h a t t h e government is serious about a
shortcomings, and that it is c
culture of transparency and efficiency It would also provide an opportunity to learn from past mistakes and to put in place mechanisms to prevent similar delays in
important to be left to the vagaries of time and the whims of bureaucracy It is claimed that the project that has the potential to transform the lives of every Guyanese citizen, to reduce the cost of living, to spur economic g r o w t h ,
prosperous and sustainable future. But this potential can only be realized if the project is managed with the utmost care and transparency
The people of Guyana have waited long enough. They deserve answers, and they deserve action. The clock is ticking, and time, as we know, waits for no one.
(The views expressed in this article are those of the
opinions of this newspaper.)
Wood snake year
I have always believed the Chinese are among the wisest to be found anywhere.
T h e t h i n k i n g i s o f F a r
E a s t e r n e r o f t h e i l k o f
C o n f u c i u s a n d M a s t e r Meng, and not the political wisdom of China’s modernday apostles, such as Xi Jinping and Wang Yi.
It is the Year of the Wood
S n a k e , a c c o r d i n g t o t h e Chinese calendar, with the last one being in 1965, the ancient history of 60 years ago What took so long? A rhetorical question, to be sure I ask because this country is overrun with snakes, for everywhere I turn, I could tumble over them if the required focus is not there They are that many
regional snakes. They all have a common scale and venom, slightly different colorings: they are political snakes of a mean kind. I came close to making a mistake with a nest of shiny snakes, their heads and their red coatings; some are green colored. Let’s just say that a toxic missile or two were barely evaded.
They are different ones for different days of the week. Towards the end of the week, one of the bigger and more cunning one crawls out of the lairs in which these adorable creatures live It was the great American Country and Western singer
of the Chinese, and with reason. I see my faith paying some rich dividends. Of all the year to be declared the Year of the Wood Snake, it just had to be this highlycharged one of 2025.
I cast a fearful eye at
Sophia are packed with snakes. Low snakes, d e f o r m e d s n a k e s , handicapped snakes. Fail to do what is right by them, and be prepared for a poisonous bite. Or several such toothy piercings.
In Guyana, there are wood snakes, water snakes, c a p i t a l c
d
According to one snake watcher, who also doubles as a snake charmer, Yin Wood ( t h i s y e a r ) h a s a c l o s e relationship with flowers, leaves, and grass, which I hear her say it is associated w i t h d i p l o m a c y a n d flexibility I am sending a plane ticket for this Yin Wood (snake) authority to travel to Guyana, so that there is firsthand experience with the wood snakes here.
snakes crawl at night ” He should have lived to see the snakes that Guyana has that crawl night and day, without so much as taking one day off
Not even Christmas; not when cash grant billions are u p i n t h e a i r a n d t h e Guyanese people are not watching because they are too busy having a good ole time in the spirit of the just concluded festive season.
I have always been a believer in the profoundness
A m e r i c a a n d s h u d d e r : nothing of that sort can be happening It must be a product of all those Stephen King horror novels and too many movies with names like Friday the 13th and Venom that were watched Then I turn to Guyana, and there is nowhere left to retreat
The gaze is fixed on Robb
Bourda Market, but there is o n e o f t h e g r e a t e s t concentration of snakes that one can imagine Midnight velvet snakes, bronze snakes, and snakes boasting a deep, dusky pigment The latter are t h e K i n g C o b r a s , w h a t Guyanese call bushmasters
A set of them even come equipped with yellowtails, which comes in handy when they have to beat a hasty exit from the people who hail from where ice and hail rain from the heavens.
Looking farther afield, both Vlissingen Road and
Those in need of a full body tattoo don’t have to go far I recommend the snaky t a t t o o a r t i s t s a s b e i n g excellence personified and people who have nothing to do with vice of any kind.
Be it act, be it things, be it people who question a lot and cover a lot of territory Once bitten, people would be fools not to bite back, make sure that they get in the first strike
It is also part of the ageless sagaciousness of the Yin Wood year that it comes w i t h a n e a t l y p a c k a g e d warning. Here it is in flashing red (what else?) lights: this year could be “ u n p r e d i c t a b l e a n d surprising ” Me, I am keeping my mouth shut, m a k i n g n o p r e d i c t i o n s Pope Francis’s Jubilee Year (Spes non confundit -hope does not disappoint) is what engages my attention, and not some damn election year I a s k p a r d o n o f t h o s e offended by the swear word.
“ U n p r e d i c t a b l e a n d surprising” is what could be in the cards. It explains why those who have significant dealings with the Chinese (the ones that operate in the shadows) are more agitated than usual.
They are hearing heavy footsteps closing in behind them. Remember that one that I donated to all citizens, especially the more coiled, vicious ones: can run, but can’t hide. Can blabber, but that’s dismissed as so much blubber
I h a v e c o m e a c r o s s snakes in the grass, but shouldn’t encounter even one snake in parliament, or any government office. So, why am I? And what are t h e y d o i n g t h e r e , w h i l e behaving as though they are right at home? It is going to b e a g r e a t y e a r T h e preference is for that terse C h i n e s e d e s c r i p t i o n : a n interesting one unspooling.
(The views expressed in this article are those of the a u t h o r a n d d o n o t n e c e s s a r i l y r e f l e c t t h e opinions of this newspaper.)
The area where the contractors carried out excavation work without approval
Min. Indar scolds contractors over unsanctioned works
days
after
VP Jagdeo
called out ministr y’s shoddy management of construction sites
Days after Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo expressed frustration over the Ministry of Public Works’ handling of construction sites, Minister within that ministry, Deodat Indar, reprimanded two contractors for unauthorized work along Princess Street, Georgetown.
On Friday, the Ministry of Public Works posted on its Facebook page that the contractors had carried out excavation work without the approval of ministry’s engineers.
Minister Indar, upon visiting the site, gave the contractors a 24-hour deadline to revet sections of the reserve that had been compromised due to improper excavation and recent heavy rainfall.
The statement further noted that utility poles in the area were now at risk, prompting the Public Works Minister to instruct the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) to intervene to stabilize the ground surrounding the poles.
On the first day of the 2025 Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, Vice President Jagdeo criticized the management of public works projects, highlighting the disorder at various construction sites and the inconvenience caused to citizens.
He said, “From the time I came down the East Bank Road, I posted in the Cabinet group my dissatisfaction with the Ministry of Public Works. They are not managing these sites well. There are people all around you know, just they don’t think about the thousands of people who are discomforted every day.”
Jagdeo added, “The President got on their case last week. It’s like everywhere, I know we’re building lots of things at the same time. We have to do it, and it’s causing discomfort. But for Christ’s sake, just let’s do it with some order.”
The Vice President also pointed to the recurring problem of newly paved roads being dug up soon after by other agencies like the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), further exacerbating the issue.
“You can’t express the amount of frustration that we express every day with these guys. They dig up a road that says, we just paved a road. They come, and then GWI will come and dig up the road again,” he said.
He stressed that better coordination and regulation were necessary to avoid disruptions and inefficiencies.
Minister Deodat Indar (right) scolding the contractors for the unsanctioned works along Princess Street, Georgetown
Govt. stalling PAC to avoid scrutiny – Mahipaul
Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) and member
o f t h e P u b l i c A c c o u n t s Committee (PAC) Ganesh Mahipaul on Friday said that there are deliberate efforts by the government to hinder the work of the Committee
Mahipaul, speaking at the People’s National Congress R e f o r m ( P N C R ) p r e s s conference on Friday said the Committee has been unable to scrutinize the accounts of
systematic stalling
The MP said that Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira
piloted a motion to change the quorum requirement for PAC
questioned
T h e o p p o s i t i o n M P underscored that the last time
the PAC met was in October 2024 This, he said, shows the government’s reluctance to allow parliamentary scrutiny of state spending
“The last time the PAC met was in October last year Is that the accountability you speak of, [Minister] Gail?” he asked
Mahipaul’s statements come against the backdrop of Minister Teixeira’s response
t o t h e 2 0 2 4 C o r r u p t i o n
P e r c e p t i o n I n d e x ( C P I ) published by Transparency International
In a February 14, 2025 statement, Minister Teixeira, clarified that while corruption remains a concern in Guyana, she argued that the CPI is not
a n a c c u r a t e m e a s u r e o f corruption The minister had said, “At no time herein is there an insinuation that corruption is not a problem; rather, the objection is that n o n - e m p i r i c a l , n o nscientific data cannot be the standard by which such a serious issue is measured by Transparency International or any other organization.”
T h e r e p o r t r a n k e d Guyana 92 out of 180 nations, with a score of 39 a decline
f r o m t h e p r e v i o u s y e a r
Transparency International
a t t r i b u t e d G u y a n a ’ s
c o r r u p t
“state capture by economic
m i s a p p r o p
i a t i o n o f resources, illicit enrichment, and weak law enforcement.
At the press conference, Mahipaul calls out Teixeira’s
Transparency International
Opposition Member of Parliament (MP),
Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance,
He said that the Minister response to the Transparency International report, rings h o l l o w i n t h e f a c e o f m o u n t i n g e v i d e n c e o f corruption
“Gail Teixeira should stop t r y i n g t o d e f e n d t h e indefensible and focus on addressing the blatant truth that is evident to all The PPP/C is a corrupt regime that h a s f a i l e d t o t a k e a n y meaningful action to address systemic corruption and the blatant theft of the people’s money,” he stated
Body found in Sussex Street canal
The decomposing body of a man was found on Friday floating in the Sussex Street Canal in the vicinity of Curtis and Campbell Streets, Albouystown, Georgetown.
Police were notified about the floating body around 11:00 hrs on Friday
“The scene was visited by police ranks, and on arrival, the body was seen partially submerged in the canal, facing downward and partially covered by moss,” police said.
The remains were in an advanced stage of decomposition and so far, police have seen no marks of violence.
Several persons were questioned but up to press time the body remains unidentified. Investigations are ongoing.
Ganesh Mahipaul
Gail Teixeira
Bandit jumps fence, robs and shoots teacher at home
WANTED VACANCY
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Counter clerk, Must have a sound secondary education and a decent handwriting. Email: bentleysagency @yahoo.com
LENDER’S CERTIFICATE PURSUANT TO SECTION 4 OF THE MONEY LENDERS
ACT
LEGAL NOTICE
2024-HC-DEM-CIV-FD-1136
I, VALERIE ELIZABETH PERSAUD of lot 59 Hope West, Enmore, East Coast Demerara, hereby give notice that I have applied to the Magistrate of the GEORGETOWN MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT for a Certificate under the Money Lenders’ Act, authorizing the grant to me of a Money Lender’s Licence to carry on the business of a Money Lender under the title of VALRICE PAWN SHOP of lot 59 Hope West, Enmore, East Coast Demerara, NOTICE of any objections to the application should be sent forthwith to the CLERK OF COURT OF THE GEORGETOWN MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT and a copy of any such notice should be sent to the subscriber, VALERIE ELIZABETH PERSAUD of lot 59 Hope West, Enmore, East Coast Demerara, Sworn to at Goorgotown, Demerara This 7th day of February, 2025
LEGAL NOTICE
2024-HC-DEM-CIV-FD1292
IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE FAMILY, DIVORCE AND MATRIMONIAL
JURISDICTION FAMILY DIVISION PETITION NO. FD-1292
BETWEEN: GORDON (LYTHESHA ORLINDA) nee
MCALLISTER Petitionerand- GORDON (KEITH FITZPATRICK) Respondent
TO: KEITH FITZPATRICK GORDON Lot 3 Plantation Brahn, West Coast Berbice. TAKE NOTICE that on the 25h day of September, 2024 a Petition for Divorce was filed against you by LYTHESHA ORLINDA GORDONnee MCALLISTER the Petitioner in the Family Division of the High Court in Georgetown, Demerara.AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 23 day of January, 2025, the Petitioner was directed to effect service of her Petition on you by publication of this Notice in two (2) consecutive
saturday issues of the Guyana Kaieteur Newspaper, a daily Newspaper printed, published and circulated in and around Guyana and on the Worldwide web AND by leaving copies of the said documents with an adult inmate at the Respondent’s last known address. . AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire you may appear or attend in person or by your duly authorized agent or Attorney-at-Law at the Registry of Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara where you will be issued with a certified copy of the Petition together with related documents.
AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire to Defend this Divorce, then upon receipt of the certified copy of the Petition, you must file an Acknowledgement of Service, Notice of Intention to Defend (Forms are available at the Registry), Answer and/or Cross Petition in the Registry of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara within 35 (thirty-five) days from the date of the final publication of this Notice.
TAKE NOTICE that the divorce is fixed for Directions Hearing on Thursday the 27th day of March, 2025 at 9:00 am before the Honourable Madam Justice Fidela CorbinLincoln via Zoom Meeting ID: 882 1097 6231 and Password: Court12.
IN DEFAULT of your filing an Acknowledgement of Service/ Notice of Intention to Defend, Answer and/or Cross Petition the Court may proceed in your absence and may make any Order it considers appropriate, including granting the Divorce. The Registry of the Family Division of the High Court is located at the Law Courts [Georgetown, Demerara]. The office is open to the public between 8:00am and 3:30pm Mondays to Thursdays and 8:00am to 2:30pm on Fridays except on public holidays and on such other days as the Registry is closed. Dated the 29th of January,2025
IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE FAMILY, DIVORCE AND MATRIMONIAL JURISDICTION FAMILY DIVISION Petition No. FD-1136 BETWEEN: (O’SELMO) ROSEANNE CANDACY nee KILKENNY -and(O’SELMO) ELVIS JAMES Petitioner/Applicant Respondent
TO:ELVIS JAMES O’SELMO Grove, Public Road, East Bank Demerara.
TAKE NOTICE that on the 14th day of August, 2024 a Petition for Divorce was filed against you by ROSEANNE CANDACY O’SELMO nee KILKENNY, the Petitioner/ Applicant in the Family Division of the High Court in Georgetown, Demerara. AND FURTHER TAKE
NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 5th day of February, 2025, the Petitioner/Applicant was directed to effect service of her Application on you by publication of the Notice in two (2) consecutive Saturday issues of the Kaieteur News.AND FURTHER
TAKE NOTICE that if you desire you may appear or attend in person or by your duly authorized agent or Attorney-at-Law at the Registry of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara where you will be issued with a certified copy of the Application together with related documents.
AND FURTHER TAKE
NOTICE that if you desire to defend this Divorce, then upon receipt of the certified copy of the Petition, you must file an Acknowledgment of Service, Notice of Intention to Defend (Forms are available at the Registry), Answer and/or Cross Petition in the Registry of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara within 35 (thirtyfive) days from the date of the final publication of this Notice.TAKE NOTICE that the matter is fixed for Directions Hearing on Tuesday the 29th day of April, 2025 at 9:00 am before the Honourable Madam Fidela Corbin-Lincoln Meeting ID: 882 1097 6231 and password: Court12.IN DEFAULT of your filing an Acknowledgement of Service. Notice of Intention to Defend, Answer and/or Cross Petition the Court may proceed in your absence and may make any Order it considers appropriate, including granting the Divorce
A teacher was on Thursday robbed of $250,000, shot despite being behind a concrete fence and a locked gate at his Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown home.
The teacher, 53-year-old Shawn Thomas, was in his yard with his wife making a Mashramani costume when a gunman scaled their fence with a gun in his right hand.
The thief walked up to the couple and demanded that they gave him all their money.
Fearful for his life, Thomas told the bandit that he had money in a black bag slung across his shoulder.
The bandit grabbed the bag and started to leave but Thomas raised an alarm by shouting “thief”.
In response, the bandit turned around and shot him in his upper thigh after which he scaled the fence and made good his escape.
Thomas was rushed to a hospital for treatment.
Investigations are ongoing.
Armed bandit steals soldier’s XR bike
A soldier was relieved of his Honda XR motorcycle Thursday night by an armed bandit in front of his Sophia, Georgetown home.
The incident occurred around 20:30h while the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) rank was cleaning his motorcycle, valued $495,000, in front of his home.
Reports are that the gunman approached the soldier and pointed a gun at him. The soldier, fearful for his life, ran into his yard leaving the motorcycle with the key in its ignition.
The gunman then jumped on the motorcycle and rode away.
Police are investigating the armed robbery.
LEGAL NOTICE
The Registry of the Family Division of the High Court is located at the Law Courts [Georgetown, Demerara]. The office is open to the public between 8:00 am and 3:30 pm Mondays to Thursdays and 8:00 am to 2:30 pm on Fridays except on public holidays and on such other days as the Registry is closed. Dated the I3 day of February, 2025.
$25M estimated to build feed pelletiser building
uring the recent
o p e n i n g o f tenders at the
d
According to information
provided by the NPTAB, the project is estimated to cost $25.1 million and a total of 19 contractors have applied for the contract. During the presentation o
s disclosed by Senior Minister with the responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh said that this project forms p a r t o f a $ 1 7 b i l l i o n a
Below are the companies and their bids: Guyana Livestock Development Authority Rehabilitation Works at the Livestock Farm.
Construction of Building to House Feed Pelletiser
National Agricultural Research & Extension InstituteSupply and Delivery of Furnishing for New AIEP Field Office.
Supply & Delivery of Desktop & Laptop Computers.
White House expects Ukraine to sign critical minerals deal soon
WASHINGTON, Feb 21
(Reuters) - White House
Mike Waltz said on Friday he expects Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiyy to sign a minerals agreement with the United States as part of efforts to end the Ukraine war, while President Donald Trump said Kyiv has no cards to play with.
Zelenskiyy’s office said
Yermak, discussed “aligning
relations in a call with Waltz
o n F r i d a y a
s h a r p exchanges between Trump and the Ukrainian leader
T
Zelenskiyy as a “dictator” on Wednesday and warned he had to move quickly to secure peace with Russia or r
y, deepening a feud between the two leaders.
The sharp change in tone
, Ukraine’s most important
o p e a n o f f i c i a l s a n d stoked fears that Kyiv could
be forced into a peace deal that favors Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Z e l e n s k i y y h a d s a i d Trump was trapped in a “disinformation bubble”, but l a t e r t o n e d d o w n h i s statements and said he was h o p i n g f o r A m e r i c a n pragmatism. Zelenskiyy on Wednesday rejected U S demands for $500 billion in mineral wealth from Ukraine to repay Washington for w a r t i m e a i d , s a y i n g t h e United States had supplied nowhere near that sum so far a n d o ff e r e d n o s p e c i f i c security guarantees in the agreement. In the call with Waltz, Yermak “stressed the importance of maintaining bilateral cooperation and a h i g h l e v e l o f r e l a t i o n s between Ukraine and the United States,” Zelenskiyy’s office said.
A few hours later Waltz t o l d t h e C o n s e r v a t i v e Political Action Conference o n t h e o u t s k i r t s o f Wa s h i n g t o n : “ H e r e ’s t h e
b o t t o m l i n e , P r e s i d e n t
Zelenskiyy is going to sign that deal, and you will see
that in the very short term.”
Waltz said on Thursday Zelenskiyy needed to come back to the negotiating table.
A s k e d a b o u t Wa l t z ’s
l a t e s t c o m m e n t s , a
U k r a i n i a n g o v e r n m e n t
source said the two sides were “still in talks”.
‘THEY DON’T HAVE ANY CARDS’
Speaking at a White
H o u s e e v e n t o n F r i d a y,
T r u m p w a s c r i t i c a l o f
Zelenskiyy while holding off on negative comments about Putin. “I’ve had very good talks with Putin, and I’ve had not such good talks with
U k r a i n e , ” T r u m p s a i d
“They don’t have any cards, but they’re playing tough.”
The German government s a i d o n F r i d a y G e r m a n Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Zelenskiyy had spoken by p h o n e a n d a g r e e d t h a t
Ukraine must have a seat at the table in future peace
t a l k s P o l i s h P r e s i d e n t
A n d r z e j D u d a u r g e d
Zelenskiyy on Friday to keep up calm and constructive cooperation with Trump, f o l l o w i n g t h e U S
president’s criticism of him. “I suggested to President Z e l e n s k i y y t o r e m a i n committed to the course of c a l m a n d c o n s t r u c t i v e co
Trump,” Duda wrote on the X social media platform.
“I have no doubt that President Trump is guided b y
stability and peace.” Duda, whose term in office expires in 2025, was one of Trump’s
partners during his 20172021 presidency and they have described themselves as friends.Poland’s president is due to meet Trump in Wa
Poland’s state news agency PAP reported Zelenskiyy s
d discussed in a call with Duda the dialogue with the U.S. team led by Ukraine envoy Keith Kellogg.
“It is important that the United States stand with us. A strong and lasting peace c
e v e d through unity,” Zelenskiyy said on X.
Govt. to spend over $525M to maintain sea & river defence in Regions 2&3
Having been allocated approximately $8.2 billion this year to execute its sea
programme, the Ministry of Public Works is preparing to expend some $525,704,185
Two and Three shoreline.
This is according to an invitation for bids (IFB) issued by the ministry The ministry is seeking bids for 40 lots of
understands that bids are expected to open on March 11, at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) office
According to the list of projects, the Public Works is
r maintenance works to the e
revetment works along Lower Pomeroon (Phase1 to 4), and Upper Pomeroon (Phase 1 to 4) which is estimated to cost $111,104,200. T h e r e a r e contracts for maintenance of earthen embankment and extension of rock armour
s l o p e f o r A l l i a n c e a n d Taymouth Manor on the Essequibo Coast which are e s t i m a t e d t o c o s t $27,680,800. In Region Two also, the ministry is seeking contractors to undertake the
m a i n t e n a n c e o f e a r t h e n e m b a n k m e n t a n d incorporation of boulders s l o p e a l o n g c o n c r e t e
s t r u c t u r e a t D a r m o u t h (Phase 5) and at Suddie there i s a c o n t r a c t f o r t h e m a i n t e n a n c e o f t h e e m b a n k m e n t a n d incorporation of concrete crest wall for $27,694,750.
Additionally, a contract is out for the maintenance works to the earthen embankment between La Resources to C o z i e r ( P h a s e 2 ) f o r $11,650,000
Moving to Region Three, the Public Works Ministry is seeking contractors to execute works for Lots 14 to 40 These p r o j e c t s i n c l u d e t h e m a i n t e n a n c e o f e a r t h e n embankment and extension of rock armour slope at Maria Johanna, Zeelandia 90, and Sarah communities located on Wakenaam Island These projects are estimated to cost $41,677,850
At Wakenaam, there is a contract for maintenance w o r k s t o t h e e a r t h e n e m b a n k m e n t a n d i n c o r p o r a t i o n o f t i m b e r revetment at the Rushbrook community for $13,827,160,
earthen embankment and extension of rock armour
s l o p e w o r k s a t G o o d S u c c e s s / S a n S a u c i f o r $ 1 3 , 9 2 7 , 8 0 0 , t h e
m a i n t e n a n c e e a r t h e n embankment between Saran a n d Z e e l a n d i a f o r $ 1 3 , 2 0 0 , 0 0 0 , t h e
m a i n t e n a n c e w o r k s t o
earthen embankment and incorporation of boulders
s l o p e a l o n g c o n c r e t e structure at Amersfort for $ 1 3 , 8 5 0 , 8 0 0 , a n d t h e
m a i n t e n a n c e o f e a r t h e n embankment and extension of rock armour slope works at Zeelandia Estate and at G a n g a Z e e l a n d i a f o r $27,798,500.
The ministry will also be executing the maintenance of the earthen embankment and incorporation of timber
r e v e t m e n t a l o n g k o k e r outfall at Ridge/ Concordia for $13,827,160, and the m a i n t e n a n c e o f t h e e m b a n k m e n t b e t w e e n
B u s h l o t a n d R i d g e a t Wakenaam for $12,030,000. At Leguan Island similar m a i n t e n a n c e o f s e a a n d defence works will be done a t P h o e n i x , H e n r i e t t a / V r o u w a n n a , C o r n e l i a , E n t e r p r i s e , Retrieve, Cane Garden, and at Canefield for a total e s t i m a t e d c o s t o f $102,611,090.
The ministry has also extended an IFB for works to b e c o n d u c t e d a t A l i k i , E s s e q u i b o R i v e r f o r $13,937,250, and at Upper Bonasika for $13,727,160.
In Region Three also, the m i n i s t r y i s s e e k i n g contractors to execute the earthen embankment and extension of rock armour slope at Eastern Hogg Island for $13,916,700, and the m a i n t e n a n c
revetment at Western Hogg Island for $13,424,660.
W i t h $ 8 2 b i l l i o n expended last year under this p r o g r a m m e , F i n a n c e Minister, Dr Ashni Singh during this year ’s budget presentation said, “We have s i n c e m a d e s i g n i f i c a n t strides in developing our coastal resilience. Over the last four years, we facilitated several initiatives including the construction over 23,900 meters of new sea defence structures along Guyana’s coastline. Additionally, over 1,200 hectares of mangroves were developed, combining ecological restoration with engineering techniques to d
Further, at Fort Island, there are two contracts for maintenance works which is estimated at $27,888,305, while another is slated for Liberty Island at a cost of $11,930,000.
protection.”
Chinese Medical Brigade, CNNOC donate 4K
Fluorescence Laparoscopy Surgical System to GPHC
The 20th China Media
T e a m f r o m J i a n g s u P r o v i n c e , C h i n a i n collaboration with CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited (CPGL) on Friday donated a
4 K F l u o r e s c e n c e
L a p a r o s c o p y S u r g i c a l System to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). The donation is aimed at enhancing surgical operations in Guyana.
f l u o r e s c e n c e s t a i n i n g t e c h n o l o g y w i t h l a p a r o s c o p i c s u r g i c a l e q u i p m e n t , e n a b l i n g s u r g e o n s t o p r e c i s e l y i d e n t i f y l e s i o n s d u r i n g surgery. The advanced 4K pixel-level monitor ensures a higher level of visibility
and precision, improving
c l i n i c a l e f f i c a c y a n d increasing the success rate of surgeries.
T h e s y s t e m e n a b l e s precise staining of lesions in human tissues, which
can then be displayed on a
h i g h - r e s o l u t i o n 4 K
m o n i t o r T h e h i g h -
greater safety, precision, a n d e f f e c t i v e n e s s T h e equipment will be especially beneficial in tumor resection
a n d m i n i m a l l y i n v a s i v e p r o c e d u r e s , p r o v i d i n g i m p r o v e d o u t c o m e s f o r patients and supporting the h o s p i t a l ’ s s u r g i c a l capabilities.
The 4K Fluorescence
L a p a r o s c o p y S u r g i c a l
S y s t e m i n t e g r a t e s
d e f i n i t i o n i m a g e r y p r o v i d e s r e a l - t i m e guidance during surgeries, h e l p i n g s u r g e o n s t o navigate more accurately
D r S h i l i n d r a
R a j k u m a r, H e a d o f t h e
D e p a r t m e n t o f S u rg e r y a t
G P H C e x p r e s s e d d e e p g r a t i t u d e t o t h e C h i n e s e
M e d i c a l Te a m f o r i t s c o n t i n u e d s u p p o r t “ T h a n k y o u a l l f o r
b e i n g h e r e b u t t h e b i g g e s t
t h a n k y o u g o e s o u t t o t h e
Representatives from the China Medical Team, CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited (CPGL) and GPHC during the handing over of the 4K Fluorescence Laparoscopy Surgical System.
G e o r g e
s e r v i c e , i n t e r m s o f t r a i ning and now in terms of the contribution you made. I know this is not an easy task but I thank you for your support,” Dr Rajkumar said.
I n a d d i t i o n , t h e
E c o n o m i c a n d
C o m m e r c i a l C o u n s e l o r
f o r t h e C h i n e s e E m b a s s y
C h i n e s e M e d i c a l Te a m f o r y o u r s u p p o r t t o t h e
L i H a n q u i n g s p o k e o n b e h a l f o f t h e d o n o r s
“ C P G L i s p r o u d t o
s p o n s o r t h i s p r o j e c t a n d t o
h e l p u p l i f t m e d i c a l standards by ensuring that more patients in Guyana can b e n e f i t f r o m a d v a n c e d surgical procedures that are safer and more effective.”
T h e C h i n e s e o ff i c i a l
s a i d t h a t C P G L i s
c o m m i t t e d t o t h e h o s p i t a l , n o t i n g t h e i r l o n g - s t a n d i n g
s u p p o r t w h i c h i n c l u d e s
e s t a b l i s h i n g t h e C N O O C -
C h i n a M e d i c a l T e a m
M e d i c a l A s s i s t a n c e F u n d
“We have established the C N O O C - C h i n a M e d i c a l
Team Medical Assistance Fund to provide financial s u p p o r t f o r t h e m o s t vulnerable medical patients, C P G L w i l l c o n t i n u e t o sponsor doctors from the h o s p i t a l t o u n d e r g o specialized training in China as we have done in the past,” he stated.
M e a n w h i l e , i t w a s d i s c l o s e d t h a t t h e i n t r o d u c t i o n o f t h e 4 K
Fluorescence Laparoscopy
Surgical System to Guyana represents a groundbreaking d e v e l o p m e n t i n t h e
c o u n t r y ’s m e d i c a l f i e l d , filling an important gap in surgical technology
The 4K Fluorescence Laparoscopy Surgical System
Martin Aguilar ’s broken arm
Peacemaker chopped after inter vening in argument
A 32-year-old peacemaker was chopped after he intervened in an argument between the suspect and another on Wednesday at Bagotville, West Bank Demerara (WBD).
The injured man, identified as Martin Aguilar, a Cuban national was chopped with a cutlass on his right arm.
Reports are that the incident occurred between 17:30h and 18:00h. After Aguilar ’s attempt to quell the situation between the suspect and the third party, the suspect visited Aguilar ’s home and attacked him.
Aguilar told Kaieteur News, during an interview that was translated, that around 17:30h an argument ensued between one of his workmates and the suspect while they were on a construction site.
“I had no clue, what they were saying or arguing about,” the man said.
In light of the argument, Aguilar tried to calm the two persons down. However, in doing so he was allegedly chased by the suspect with a hammer After being chased, he went to his Lot 149 Bagotville, WBD home.
At about 18:00h, the victim claimed that the suspect went into his yard and hid himself. The suspect reportedly hid for some time and pounced on Aguilar when he passed him. The victim was badly chopped on his right arm with the cutlass, leaving it broken.
The suspect made good his escape.
Anguilar was taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where he was admitted for a day, and subsequently sent home. The matter was reported to the La Grange Police Station. The police are investigating the matter
Taxi driver sentenced to communit y ser vice, fined for weed possession
A 41-year-old taxi driver was on Friday sentenced to c o m m u n i t y s
appeared at the Georgetown M
narcotics charge.
Nabadaningi Gobin of Charlotte Street, Bourda, Georgetown was charged with possession of 17 grams of marijuan for the purpose of trafficking on February 17, 2025 at Albert Street, Georgetown.
Gobin pleaded g
y after the charge was read to him by Magistrate Annette Singh.
The prosecution stated that the officers arrested Gobin based on information they received. Leaves and s
Gobin’s car He was arrested and subsequently charged.
T
Nabadaningi Gobin
PNCR, GTUC committed to safeguarding Guyana’s democratic process
The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) and the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) on Thursday a
democratic process and fight against any attempts at “electoral malpractice”.
In a joint statement issued on Friday, the two bodies said that the agreement was made at a meeting convened at
integrity and credibility of the 2025 General and Regional Elections.
“The discussion centered around GECOM providing a clean voters list
elections.
In light of these developments, both parties underscored the critical need for
vigilance throughout the registration process, emphasizing the necessity of a clean voter list incorporating biometric
elections, which are the foundation of our democracy,” the joint statement said.
Further, both the PNCR and the GTUC “committed to launching an aggressive campaign aimed at educating
responsibilities which will lead to empowering citizens with knowledge which is vital to fostering a politically conscious electorate that is aware of their rights and the importance of their vote.”
The PNCR was represented by
Chairman - Shurwayne Holder MP, G
C Benjamin, CEC Members - Ganesh Mahipaul MP and Sherwood Lowe, while the GTUC was represented by President - Norris Witter, General Secretary - Lincoln Lewis, TreasurerJohn Tull and Organising SecretaryEon Andrews.
Both parties agreed to deepen their collaboration and have committed to further engagements to ensure that our c
General Secretaries will serve as the primary contact persons to coordinate future meetings and initiatives
The PNCR and GTUC said they will continue to encourage citizens to remain vigilant and actively participate in shaping the country’s future.
magistrate ordered Singh to pay a $25,000 fine, failure to do so within one week will result in imprisonment. G
y service is scheduled to begin on February 24, 2025.
i o n suggested that Gobin does community service at the Brickdam Police Station. Magistrate Singh agreed with the prosecution and s
Bristol named manager as Guyana gears up for 2025 Caribbean Boxing Championship
W i t h j u s t s i x d a y s remaining until the return of t h e C a r i b b e a n B o x i n g Championship, the Guyana
Boxing Association (GBA) has appointed Seon Bristol as manager of the national team set to compete in St.
Lucia from February 27 to March 3.
Treasurer, is also the nephew of former Commonwealth m
n Kenny Bristol.
Returning after a fouryear hiatus, the Caribbean
B o x i n g C h a m p i o n s h i p remains the region’s premier amateur boxing showcase.
With a rich history of
championship title in 2018 on home soil and delivered
Trinidad and Tobago the following year
N
o n i s determined to reclaim its dominance.
Spearheading the squad is Olympian and three-time Caribbean champion Keevin A l l i c o c k ( 5 7 k g ) , w h o
tournament.
(
) , Emanuel Pompey (92kg), and Aluko Bess (86kg).
A
Heavyweight standouts
and Zidnan Wray (91kg) will also be part of the list of boxers heading to St Lucia,
along with South American G
(75kg).
Guyana’s rising stars will also be in action, with Junior division fighters Ken Harvey (57-60kg), Keyon Britton ( 4
,
x Lawrence (54-57kg) looking to make their mark.
Y
To
(54kg) and Simeon Haymer (63-66kg), will also aim to shine on the regional stage.
The squad will be guided by an experienced coaching team will guide the squad, including National Coach Lennox Daniels, acclaimed C
o Roldan, Clifton Moore, and Jeff Roberts.
Seon Bristol
Guyana’s rising Chess stars take on Barbados
National Junior Chess Champion Ricardo Narine was selected by the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) to c o m p e t e i n t h e S I T T U B a r b a d o s O p e n C h e s s Championship 2025 from February 20th to February 24th, 2025.
T h e c o m p e t i t i o n w i l l occur in the Grand Salle in the Tom Adams Financial
Centre in Bridgetown, St. Michael, Barbados. Narine, who has an ELO rating of 1714, will compete in the Group B category of the tournament. Narine, a twotime National Junior Chess Champion, has proven time and time again his skill and resilience over the chess board, winning many rapid competitions over the years.
The GCF is confident he will do well and earn ELO rating points. Joining him
BCB puts a halt to cricket season due to inclement weather
put on hold.
UbaldoSingh have taken up the challenge of playing in
rating points.
Pitamber, who has an ELO rating of 1779, will join Narine to battle it out in Group B, facing off against players with FIDE ratings
Meanwhile, Alek, who will
i s 1 3 t h b i r t h d a y o v e r t h e actionpacked weekend and the youngest trio, is fearlessly stepping into Group C (14001699), proving that age is just a n u m b e r f o r s t r a
brilliance.
U
Saturday February 22, 2025
ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19)
You'll find that things are slipping nicely into place for y o u t o d a y, A r i e s Yo u r persuasive manner and gentle nudges are just enough to get people where you want them.
TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20)
When faced with ten entrees on the menu, it might be hard for you to choose just one. Feel free to order two or more, T a u r u s D o n ' t l e t i n d e c i s i v e n e s s s l o w y o u down. At the same time.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20)
Your dreams won't come true unless you believe in and act on them, Gemini. No one else is going to do it for you.
Unless you have a fairy godmother, you need to take matters into your own hands.
CANCER (June 21–July 22)
If people hassle you or give you a hard time about your appearance today, pay them no mind, Cancer You have the right to live your life any way you want to.
LEO (July 23–Aug. 22)
Reach for the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, Leo. It's closer than you think. Indeed, your dreams are completely within your reach, and there are huge forces at work helping you achieve your goals.
VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22)
Today is your day to dream and dream big, Virgo. Think about what it is that you want most out of life. Aim your arrow to the stars and pull back your bow as far as possible. There's no limit to how far you can go.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22)
Expand your mind to its furthest reaches today, Libra.
T h e
opportunity opening up for you in which you can make great strides in a creative realm. Follow the music.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov 21)
Your mind may seem rather cloudy today, Scorpio, but don't let this hinder you. In fact, you'll find that you can use this feeling of fantasy to your advantage. Try to bring more magic into your life.
SAGIT (Nov 22–Dec. 21)
Today is an excellent day for you, one in which you'll find a great deal of strength in your emotions , Sagittarius Trust that your instincts are serving you well.
CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19)
y, Capricorn. Don't feel like you need to make sense of it all. In
impossible. Just be yourself. Let your creative nature shine through.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb.
18) Mix your reality with a bit of fantasy today, Aquarius. Allow your feet to come off the ground for a little while. Give yourself a rest. Take some time to meditate and clear your mind of your daily worries.
PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20)
Let yourself go into high creative mode and drift into a whole other world, Pisces. Escape your present reality and explore your fantasies through any sort of artistic endeavor Dream as big as your mind allows.
h a s a n ELO rating of 1462. While Narine and Pitamber have
, this will be Alex’s debut on t
ented young m
re ready to challenge their opponents in the heavily c o m p e t i t i v e t o u r n a m e n t where a pool of $5000 USD in cash prizes is up for grabs in each category The GCF is confident that these young, a v i d c h e s s p l a y e r s w i l l emerge as better players f r o m t h e e x p e r i e n c e o f playing in this tournament.
Elite clubs will challenge KFC...
From page 27
Demerara FA, Rupununi FA and Berbice FA, met and d
bankruptcy faced by the GFF not just in finances but in ideas.”
Football needs a major meeting of stakeholders to discuss the challenges we face stated a senior Regional
M
Forde learnt of our plans, he used his usual tokenism to counter our plans to break the vote of confidence.”
The Regional Member
A s s o c i a t i o n a l s o revealed,”The president of E a s t D e m
a r a FA w a s drafted on to the panel to select the next national coach, though he had no technical experience He {Forde} then employed a senior executive member of East Bank FA to m
n a g
N a t i o n a l Training Center Some of us felt let down because these moves do not help the game”, stated the regional official
The GFF Elite League is scheduled to kick off on March 9. (GFF Release)
T h e b o a r d h a s tentatively fixed the final of the Ivan Madray Memorial T20 Cricket competition for Sunday, March 9, for the No 69 Vikings Cricket ground, Upper Corentyne.
The two teams set to s q u a
Community Centre Cricket Club and Upper Corentyne Cricket Club. Starting time is 13:00 hrs.
However, Inter County preparations for the Under 15 players will continue u s i n g a v a i l a b l e s p a c e s including tarmacs.
Association) Alumni interzone under 15 competitions have been halted.
Also affected are the BCB preparations of their inter-county under-15 team w
Quality Delivery Under-17
/
o n e competition and the BCB two-day 1st division cricket competition have also been
Meanwhile, the BCB is sending congratulations to its senior female cricketers who played unbeaten to capture the title in the recently concluded intercounty 50-over tournament. The BCB is also extending best wishes to its U15 team f o r t h
Whyte)
Changes made to KMTC Phagwah Horse race meet
L o t F a r m C o r e n t y n e , Berbice venue. Already a lot of interest has been created with a number of requests being made and questions being
With a month to go before race day, activities for the Kennard Memorial Turf C l u b ( K M T C ) a n n u a l Phagwah horse race meet are heating up. The event is slated for Sunday, March 16, at the club's prestigious Bush
a s k e d A s s u c h , t h e organizers have decided to make several changes to the programme.
There are still six races carded for the day with the total prize money bumping up to close to $6M. The feature event is still the C1 gallop over one mile for the winner's take of $1.2M and a trophy, which shows an increase over last year
There is now an event for F-class and lower horses for a first prize of $400,000 and a trophy over seven furlongs.
The horses classified H and lower will now have an o p p o r t u n i t y t o c o m p e t e They will be racing over seven furlongs for a winning prize of $350,000 and a trophy
The event for J and lower horses remains a six furlongs
event for a pole take of $300,000 and a trophy
A similar incentive of $ 3 0 0 , 0 0 0 a n d a t r o p h y remains the winning prize for the event for three-yearold Guyana Bred animals also over 6 furlongs. The L-class open race w i n n e r ' s p r i z e h a s b e e n bumped up to $300,000 and a trophy over 6 furlongs.
Metro Company Limited
h a s j o i n e d M r R a m e s h Sunich of Trophy Stall as early sponsors on board for the event which promises to be full of excitement.
T h e t o p i n d i v i d u a l
performers, including top jockey, top trainer and top stable will be presented with t h e i r s i l v e r w a r e compliments of the Trophy Stall.
Interested persons can contact Satish Bowan on 689-0629, Isaac Dalloo at 689-0629, Fazal Habibulla at 657-7010, T Jagdeo at 618-7278, Campton Sancho 6 8 2 - 8 5 5 0 o r R o p n a u t h Sewsankar at 678-6722 for further details.
Race time is 12:00 hrs. T h e e v e n t w i l l b e conducted under the aegis of the KMTC. (Samuel Whyte)
Wada drops lawsuit against Usada and T ygar t
( B B C S p o r t ) - T h e World Anti-Doping Agency
h a s d r o p p e d i t s l a w s u i t against the United States Anti-Doping Agency over a d i s p u t e a b o u t C h i n e s e swimmers testing positive for a banned substance in 2021.
The 23 swimmers were cleared to compete at the Tokyo Olympics by Wada after it found it could not disprove the China AntiDoping Agency’s conclusion that the positive tests for h e a r t m e d i c a t i o n trimetazidine (TMZ) were caused by contamination.
Usada chief executive Travis Tygart accused Wada of a cover-up - a claim Wada rejected as “completely false and defamatory” before it filed a defamation lawsuit in Swiss court against Usada and Tygart.
Wada said it remains “ c
would have been successful but has withdrawn it in the “interest of moving on”.
vindication” for himself and Usada.
After the case involving
C
became public in April last
S w
s s prosecutor Eric Cottier in July said Wada did not show bias and acted reasonably Tygart was again critical a n d c a l l e d o n Wa d a t o conduct a “more thorough” audit by an investigator appointed by a neutral third party
Tensions between the two organisations have since remained high.
In July, Wada said Usada would face a compliance
r e v i e w , w h i l e t h e I n t e r n a t i o n a l O l y m p i
(IOC
d the hosting contract for the 2034 Winter Olympics to allow it to strip Salt Lake City of the Games if US authorities did not respect the “supreme authority” of Wada.
Last month, Usada said it “fully” supported the US government’s decision to w i t h h o l d a p a y m e n t o f $3 6m (£2 8m) to Wada Wada said by dropping its lawsuit it was “putting this behind us and moving f o r w a r d i n c o l l a b o r a t i o n with our stakeholders for the good of all athletes around the world” However, it also said it determined it is “futile to argue with somebody who is
unwilling to accept clear evidence, whose only goal is to damage Wada and the global anti-doping system, and who has no desire to find a resolution”.
Tygart remained critical of Wada in response, calling i t s a c
y, wasteful and abusive”.
He added: “It’s time for those who value clean sport to step up and get Wada right, as athletes deserve a fair, robust global watchdog to protect their rights to fair competition.”
Usada said Wada has also d r o p p e d a n e t h i c s c a s e against former US Office of N a t i o n a l D r u g C o n t r o l Policy director Rahul Gupta, who represented the US on Wada’s executive board.
Bristol named manager as Guyana gears up for 2025 Caribbean Boxing Championship
W i t h j u s t s i x d a y s remaining until the return of t h e C a r i b b e a n B o x i n g Championship, the Guyana
Boxing Association (GBA) has appointed Seon Bristol as manager of the national team set to compete in St.
Lucia from February 27 to March 3.
Treasurer, is also the nephew of former Commonwealth m
n Kenny Bristol.
Returning after a fouryear hiatus, the Caribbean
B o x i n g C h a m p i o n s h i p remains the region’s premier amateur boxing showcase.
With a rich history of
championship title in 2018 on home soil and delivered
Trinidad and Tobago the following year
N
o n i s determined to reclaim its dominance.
Spearheading the squad is Olympian and three-time Caribbean champion Keevin A l l i c o c k ( 5 7 k g ) , w h o
tournament.
(
) , Emanuel Pompey (92kg), and Aluko Bess (86kg).
A
Heavyweight standouts
and Zidnan Wray (91kg) will also be part of the list of boxers heading to St Lucia,
along with South American G
(75kg).
Guyana’s rising stars will also be in action, with Junior division fighters Ken Harvey (57-60kg), Keyon Britton ( 4
,
x Lawrence (54-57kg) looking to make their mark.
Y
To
(54kg) and Simeon Haymer (63-66kg), will also aim to shine on the regional stage.
The squad will be guided by an experienced coaching team will guide the squad, including National Coach Lennox Daniels, acclaimed C
o Roldan, Clifton Moore, and Jeff Roberts.
Seon Bristol
Slingerz FC shines at Guyana Energy Conference and Youth Forum
Slingerz FC made a bold
s t a
m e n t a t t h e j u s tconcluded Guyana Energy C o n f e r e n c e a n d S u p p l y Chain Expo, held at the Marriott Hotel, by blending the worlds of professional f o o t b a l l a n d n a t i o n a l development.
T h e c l u b ’ s a c t i v e participation at the Youth Forum set it apart as the only sports organization to make a special presentation during the event.
I n a m e m o r a b l e moment, last season’s Elite League leading scorer, 20year-old Marcus Tudor, who netted 18 goals, had the honour of presenting Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo with a personalized Slingerz FC jersey
The jersey, emblazoned with the number 7 to signify
Jagdeo’s role as Guyana’s 7th President, was a symbol o f
national leadership and
youth development through football.
The club’s initiative resonated strongly with key figures in attendance.
Slingerz FC also had the p
Anthony Whyte, Chairman of the conference and a devoted football enthusiast w
national team, the Golden Jaguars.
Whyte expressed his pride and appreciation for the club’s visit, highlighting how the passion for football can bridge the gap between sports and broader business and energy sectors.
According to Slingerz FC, the club is dedicated to
football in Guyana while also illustrating its proactive
change by connecting with influential stakeholders.
The former Elite League champions stated that this initiative is also part of their
efforts.
T
players, the club aims to engage various segments of society in discussions on
through sport. F
excellence and community impact, Slingerz FC seeks to contribute to a stronger,
landscape in the country
Elite clubs will challenge KFC monopoly on
Clubs in the Elite League
a r e g r u m b l i n g o v e r a n agreement President of the Guyana Football Federation Wayne Forde made with KFC to give away the most commercially viable spot on clubs’ match uniforms last season.
To retain their right to commercial value of their match kits, Clubs are ready to confront the GFF
T h i s c o u l d f u r t h e r embarrass KFC as a sponsor like the incident when the GFF did not give prize money on time despite KFC
p a y i n g i t t o t h e G F F Speaking on a condition of anonymity one club official who was traditionally close to Wayne Forde lamented.
”Whether you are a lowi n c o m e c l u b l i k e F r u t a Conquerors, Santos, Anns Grove or big teams like GDF, Slingerz and Police,
w e a l l f a c e t h e s a m e dilemma. Wayne Forde is
t h e w o r s t s p o n s o r s h i p negotiator in football.
”How can KFC occupy the key spot on our match uniforms and the financial returns to the clubs are zilch
f o r t h i s t y p e o f visibility.Taking up space for sponsors who finance our clubs?”It’s really a joke and
team uniforms
an affront to clubs in the GFF Elite League.” With the League under 3 weeks away the GFF is yet to hold a meeting with clubs to d i s c u s s k e y i s s u e s surrounding the new season. The club official further lamented, “We do not know what we are playing for in terms of prize money. We know nothing about the fixtures and the rules and regulations for 2025 As usual they are going to come at the last minute and try to hoodwink us with hogwash
t h a t F I FA s a y s t h i s o r Concacaf says that, without presenting documentation, stated another club official.
E x
Wayne Forde administration
method of operations over the years, the club official stated.
”We always supported Wayne Forde and at first, we were impressed with his rhetoric about consultation, transparency and integrity. But in the last four years Forde and his crew have not b
n a n d transparency, which reflects poor integrity
It was established that
Association bodies within the GFF met to orchestrate a vote of no confidence in Wayne Forde.
ne member of the group shared, “East Bank FA, East (Continued on page 23)
GFF Elite League 2024 season top scorer, Marcus Tudor, makes a presentation on behalf of Slingerz FC to Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo.
GFF President, Wayne Forde
Slingerz FC shines at Guyana Energy Conference and Youth Forum
Chairman of the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, Anthony Whyte (fourth from left), flanked by Slingerz FC players.
