Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly
- says she was raped, asked to care for his baby
Guyanese soldiers Venezuelan gang
in Eteringbang shootout
Those injured are: Second Lieutenant, Ansel Mur ray, who suffered a gunshot wound to the r ight of his head; Sergeant, Kevon Davis who was shot in the r ight foot and ankle; Cor poral, Andrew Fraser, who sustained gunshot wounds in the left of his abdomen and shoulder; Cor poral, Kevin Henr y, who was shot in the left ar m and shoulder; Lance Cor poral, Travis Yor r ick, who was injured in the r ight thigh; and Pr ivate Ezron Samuel, who was shot in the r ight abdomen.
Someoftheinjuredsoldiersbeing transported to safetyfollowing the attack
ExxonMobil to build new pipeline from 7th project to connect to Gas-to-Energy project
Ex x o n M o b i l
Guyana Limited ( E M G L ) , t h e operator of the Stabroek Block will be constructing a new pipeline to transport gas from the seventh projectHammerhead- to support the G a s - t o - E n e r g y ( G T E ) project.
This is according to the
E n v i r o n m e n t a l I m p a c t Assessment (EIA) submitted
by the developer to the
E n v i r o n m e n t a l P r o t e c t i o n Agency (EPA). According
t o t h e 4 2 3 2 - p a g e s t u d y,
c o n d u c t e d b y E x x o n ’ s consultant, Environmental
R e s o u r c e s M a n a g e m e n t (ERM), the pipeline will be about 13-kilometers and will
b e a t t a c h e d f r o m t h e
H a m m e r h e a d F l o a t i n g P r o d u c t i o n S t o r a g e a n d
Offloading vessel (FPSO) to the existing GTE pipeline. In its project description,
Exxon said Hammerhead will develop the offshore r e s o u r c e b y “ d r i l l i n g
a p p r o x i m a t e l y 1 4 t o 3 0
d e v e l o p m e n t w e l l s (including production and w a t e r i n j e c t i o n w e l l s ) ; i n s t a l l i n g a n d o p e r a t i n g
Subsea Umbilicals, Risers,
a n d F l o w l i n e s ( S U R F )
equipment; using an FPSO to process, store, and offload
t h e r e c o v e r e d o i l ; a n d installing an approximately 1 3 - k i l o m e t e r g a s e x p o r t pipeline from the FPSO to a tie-in on the Gas to Energy Pipeline.”
E x x o n h a s a l r e a d y completed a 220-kilometers long pipeline that connects to the Liza One and Liza Two projects in the Stabroek Block and ends at the Wales Development Site, where the government plans to utilize the resources for power g e n e r a t i o n a n d o t h e r monetization options.
T h a t s t r u c t u r e i s estimated to cost US$1B and is expected to be operational by the end of 2025. The pipeline, according t o i t s E I A w i l l b e transporting approximately 50 million standard cubic feet per day (MMscfd; 1.4 m i l l i o n s t a n d a r d c u b i c meters per day [MMsm3/d]) of rich gas.
A c c o r d i n g t o t h e Hammerhead EIA, several alternatives were considered for the associated gas in the project, including flaring or
burning of the gas. Exxon said, “A key use of the associated gas is fuel for gas t u r b i n e s u s e d i n p o w e r generation on the FPSO. Gas not used as fuel is then a
imary alternatives considered for managing associated gas include flaring, re-injection, and transfer.”
T h e s t u d y s a i d c o n t i n u o u s f l a r i n g o f a s s o c i a t
recommended due to the associated air emissions and because it would not meet regulatory expectations in Guyana nor be consistent with GIIP, so this option was not considered.
O n t h e o t h e r h a n d , associated gas re-injection was evaluated as an option to maintain reservoir pressure and improve oil recovery, but was not selected for the Hammerhead field.
Exxon explained that this is due to the likelihood that injected gas would move quickly through the reservoir back to the production wells, resulting in significant gas
c y c l i n g , w i t h n e g a t i v e i m p l i c a t i o n s f o r o i l
Location of the Hammerhead Project in the Stabroek Block
production. “Use of Projectassociated gas in nearby producing fields was also e v a l u a t e d , i n c l u d i n g t h e
U a r u a n d L i z a f i e l d s
Alternative considerations
i n c l u d e d i n j e c t i n g t h e
Project associated gas for enhanced recovery purposes
i n o f f s e t r e s e r v o i r s t o
m a i n t a i n p r e s s u r e a n d increase sweep of reservoir oil,” the EIA stated. It added
t h a t t h i s o p t i o n c a n b e
p a r t i c u l a r l y e ff e c t i v e f o r certain reservoirs and crude
t y p e s a s p a r t o f w a t e r alternating associated gas strategies, resulting in uplift in recovery
Meanwhile, the study noted that associated gas transfer options were also considered “The Project a s s o c i a t e d g a s c o u l d b e
available, in conjunction with associated gas from other fields, to send to the Gas to Energy Pipeline to
h e l p s u p p o r t o n s h o r e
d e m a n d g r o w t h T h e selected Project’s associated gas utilization plan is to first use associated gas for fuel in
g a s t u r b i n e s f o r p o w e r generation on the FPSO. The remaining associated gas will be transferred to the Gas to Energy Pipeline and either
s e n t t o s h o r e a n d / o r t r a n s f e r r e d t o t h e U n i t y FPSO to enhance Liza oil production. This associated gas utilization plan was u l t i m a t e l y s e l e c t e d f o r associated gas management to maximize recovery at Hammerhead and Liza fields to fulfill potential onshore gas demand and eliminate routine flaring,” according to the Hammerhead EIA.
S o m e s t a k e h o l d e r s believe that the plan to connect this new project to the GTE pipeline is linked to the fact that the Liza One and Liza Two resources are likely to be drained before the estimated 20-year lifespan. Kaieteur News reported on
lifespan of the Liza One, L
than five years.
D
Routledge, said he hopes that
would receive the blessings of the GoG by mid-2025.
Guyanese soldiers ambushed, shot by Venezuelan gang
...6 injured, 2 cr itical in Eter ingbang shootout
Several soldiers of the Guyana Defence Force were shot and injured when members of
opened fire on them Monday afternoon in the Eteringbang, Cuyuni, Region Seven area.
The Sindicato has been allowed to roam freely in Guyana’s hinterland and from time to time its members have harrassed, robbed and killed Guyanese.
Their attack on the soldiers comes amid continued threats from Venezuela over its spurious claim to this country’s Essequibo region. The shooting also happened on the d
Anniversary of the Geneva Agreement of 1966, which provides the framework for the resolution of the controversy that arose out of Venezuela’s unilateral attempt to nullify the legality of the Arbitral Award of 1899, which definitively established the land boundary between Guyana and Venezuela.
Shot in the head
The Guyana Police Force in a statement listed the injured as: Second Lieutenant Ansel Murray, who suffered a gunshot wound to the right of his head; Sergeant, Kevon Davis who was shot in the right foot and ankle; Corporal, Andrew Fraser, who sustained gunshot wounds in the left of his abdomen and shoulder; Corporal, Kevin Henry, who
was shot in the left arm and shoulder; Lance Corporal, Travis Yorrick, who was injured in the right thigh; and Private Ezron Samuel, who was shot in the right his abdomen. Despite their injuries, all of the soldiers were reported to be conscious and stable, police said in a statement. Medical treatment was administered by GDF medic L/Cpl Melville at the Makapa GDF Observation Post.
Police said the shooting occurred about 15:45hrs, involving members of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and suspected armed individuals believed to be associated with Sindicatos.
The incident took place near Black Water Mouth in the Cuyuni River, while a GDF boat was en route from the Eteringbang GDF main base to the Makapa GDF Observation Post to deliver supplies. The GDF team was using a
journey, the GDF boat was intercepted by two
masked men. The assailants circled the GDF boat and opened fire, prompting the GDF ranks to return fire. The exchange resulted in
multiple GDF members sustained gunshot wounds. Meanwhile, in a statement last night
Continued on page 6
Manager fined for DUI, placed on bail for discharging loaded gun
A 42-year-old manager of Hart’s Suit, was on Monday fined $200,000 for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) and placed on $60,000 bail when he appeared before Magistrate Teriq Mohamed.
Gladwyn Tracey, who resides at Lot 67 First Avenue, Bartica appeared at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court, where the charges were read to him.
During the court proceedings, Tracey pleaded not guilty to the charge that stated he discharged a loaded firearm within 100 yards in a public way As such, the magistrate placed him on $60,000 bail. He is scheduled to return to court on March 13, 2025 for continuation.
In addition, Tracey pleaded guilty to the DUI charge and was fined $200,000.
Missing 12-yr-old girl rescued from Berbice man’s home
- SAYS SHE WAS RAPED, ASKED TO CARE FOR HIS BABY
A12-year-old girl w h o w a s reported missing f
n Friday last by the police in the home of a man in New Amsterdam Berbice, where she was allegedly taken back i
disappeared from her school.
that she was raped by the man and was asked to take c a r e
b a b y. S h e w a s f o u n d b y officers from Central Police Station in New Amsterdam on Friday She was allegedly taken away in her school uniform. The suspect, a man believed to be over 25 years old, is currently in police custody
During a Facebook live w i t h A c t i v i s t , S i m o n a Broomes, the child shared h e r h a r r o w i n g s t o r y H e r mother also joined the live, expressing her distress of having her daughter missing for weeks. “We found her
s a f e S h e w a s a t N e w
A m s t e r d a m , B e r b i c e , Corentyne. The police call me that I must come up there f o r h e r P u b l i c - s p i r i t e d persons up there reached out to the police where the child was, and the police went there and did their job,” the mother said on the live.
The mother revealed that t h a t t h e p o l i c e f o u n d h e r daughter in a house with a one-year-old baby She also stated that the owner of the h o u s e w a s a r r e s t e d “ T h e person for the house was
a r r e s t e d , a n d h e i s i n custody,” she confirmed. The 12- year-old recounted how she first communicated with
t h e m a n t h r o u g h s o c i a l media, eventually agreeing to meet him at a bridge near her school. “I left to go to s c h o o l w h e n I m e e t t h e
s c h o o l y a r d t h e c h i l d r e n them went at the back for assembly after, I end up left the school gate and went to buy something and then I walked out to Tucville bridge and he came to pick me up
w i t h a m o t o r b i k e , ” s h e explained.
W h e n B r o o m e s a s k e d how she met the man, she stated that she met him on T i k t o k a n d w o u l d
c o m m u n i c a t e w i t h h i m
through her aunt’s phone
“We start talking and stuff and then he send his number and I add him on WhatsApp and we start talking,” the 12y e a r - o l d s a i d H o w e v e r , w h i l e t h e y w e r e communicating he allegedly instructed her to meet him when she arrived at school.
“He said when I go to school when I get drop off he said come off at Tucville bridge and meet him, but when I go out he was not there yet but then after he then show up,” she recalled.
U p o n a r r i v i n g a t h i s home in New Amsterdam, the girl was taken by surprise when she saw a baby “When we get there I didn’t know he had a son but is when I see his son he end up tell me that he get a son saying he and child
mother fall out and he take way he son from his mother because he mother does beat he son,” she said.
During the live Broomes a s k e d t h e g i r l i f h e h a d intercourse with the man to which she responded in the a ff i r m a t i v e “ We h a d s e x three times,” the emotional girl admitted. She added that the man would only take her out the house in the evenings and would introduce her to his friends as his girlfriend. She also noted that he would buy clothes for her
R e
when police found her, she said, “When the police come, I start cry Them end up ask me my name and age, then they showed me the news and asked if that’s me and I tell them yes and they carry me down to the police station with the child.”
police and later retrieved her daughter As the young girl
former government member
encouraged parents to keep
close watch on their children
investigation into the matter
Gladwyn Tracey
Kaieteur News
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Publisher: GLENN LALL-TEL: 624-6456
Editor: NIGEL WILLIAMS
Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
Tackling child abuse
Guyana recorded some 4,032 cases of child abuse in 2024 and 275 cases so far for this year These are astonishing numbers, which require every effort by both the government and the rest of society to address this situation. At a news conference on Saturday by the Ministry of Human Services, it was disclosed that of the over 4000 abuse cases, the Childcare and Protection Agency (CCPA) recorded 1,203 child sexual cases in 2024, with Region Four recording 466 cases; Region One 52; 181 in Region Two, 145 in Region Three and 83 in Region Five. In Regions Six and Ten, 148 and 48 cases were reported respectively The lowest numbers were recorded in Regions Seven, Eight, and Nine. Region Seven reported 10 cases, Region Eight 21, and Region Nine 50 cases. It is universally accepted that every child has a right to be considered of equal intrinsic worth and hence entitled to equal socio-economic, civil and political rights so that he/she may realize his potential and share in life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. A working definition of child abuse may be any act of omission or commission that endangers or impairs a child’s psychological physical health and development judged on the basis of a combination of community standards and professional expertise. It may be committed by individuals, individually or collectively, who by their age, status, knowledge etc. are in positions of differential power that render a child vulnerable. Of the types of child abuse, physical abuse consists of any non-accidental form of injury or harm inflicted on a child by a person, which includes beating, burning or wounding. Physical abuse is common in our society where corporal punishment as slapping etc. is considered the norm. However, corporal punishment that injures the child to the point where medical attention is required is a form of physical abuse outside the limits of normal corrective discipline. It is sometimes difficult for even doctors to determine whether a child who is brought in to a hospital is the victim of an accident or whether the injury has been caused by physical abuse. It is therefore imperative for doctors to place importance on this task and be able to differentiate between accidents and abuse. It is often said that the abuse of children begins when we start thinking of them as our property, and no matter how we may try to sublimate or repress it, this thought lingers in the minds of most adults. What else can justify the animalistic rage that fuels the beatings that are inflicted on children for various and sundry violations of arbitrary and never coherently stated “rules”? Is it really “for the children’s good” or is it for the perceived indignity of having our rules not observed? This is the same relationship that was legalised as “slavery” – characterised by its elaborate and intricate forms of punishment and discipline – which is now universally decry Then there is sexual abuse– any sexual act with a child performed by an adult or by another child – also appears to abound in Guyana. Females appear to bear the brunt of this type of abuse –some suggest that some fifty percent of women in our society may have been abused when they were children. But recent reports have exposed the fact that boys are also at risk. While all sexual abuse of children are heinous, incest –sexual activity between individuals related by blood –reportedly cause the greatest and most long lasting trauma in children. Ironically it may be the most common type of sexual abuse of children on account of the opportunities presented because of the sexual predator being, “family”. One of the most despicable abuses against children has been their sexual violation by adults. In almost every case, these children become emotionally scarred for life and have, at a minimum, grave difficulties in forming stable relationships – especially sexual ones – when they become adults.
They will either display heightened promiscuity because their early sexualisation predisposes them to see sex as the only way to relate to others intimately or they
“In Hindsight, there was no Foresight”
DEAR EDITOR,
In the course of history, words written, spoken and
d immeasurable power They
motivates, encourage and in some instances determine the trajectory of our actions. The words we choose to speak can either, elevate or diminish, unify or divide, heal or wound.
In a society like ours, where diversity is a hallmark of our national identity, the responsibility of our leaders, particularly political leaders, a r e o f p a
n t importance. It is their duty as responsible leaders to guide the nation, not just by policy, but by the language they use given its potent potential. T
fortify the ties that bind us
progress we have made as a people whose history was s h a p e d b y s l a v e r y , i n d e n t u r e s h i p a n d engineered ethnic tension and division.
G u y a n a s t a n d s a t a critical juncture in its history We are witnessing a period of unprecedented gro
O
economy, once categorized among the Highly Indebted Poor Countries’ (HIPC) of t
miles evolved from that station of perpetual struggle and recognized as one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, earning praise from renowned institutions and analysts, particularly due to the magnitude of our newly found oil resources.
The pace at which our infrastructure is evolving;
h o m e a n d o t h e r e m p o w e r m e n t a s s e t s
ownership is becoming a reality among all groups of c i t i z e n s ; a n d entrepreneurship and wider socio-economic expansions are happening; is equally remarkable, and for the first time in our history, the promise of a brighter future for all Guyanese seems both palpable and tangible.
I
aspirations laid out in our national motto ‘One People, One Nation, One Destiny’ are more attainable, more real, than ever before. Our potential as a nation; not o n l y a s a n e c
n o m i c powerhouse, but also as the emerging regional food and energy security hub; lies within our grasp. We are on the precipice of realizing the c o
u r ancestors and foreparents, where the sacrifices they
contributions now; the fruits of our collective labour, can
affiliation.
However, to unlock this p
s t collectively recognize that the path to success is fragile. It requires vigilance, unity,
p Leadership that transcends party lines, leadership that places the welfare of the n
group, or tribalistic interests,
recognizes the tremendous power of words and their potential to shape the society we wish to build for our children and their offspring. It is in this context that
(Continued on page 06)
Do not obstruct legitimate efforts to ensure free, fair, and credible elections
DEAR EDITOR,
G u y a n a E l e c t i o n s C o m m i s s i o n ( G E C O M )
Chairperson, retired Justice Claudette Singh S C , is i n a p p r o p r i a t e l y h i d i n g behind legal technicalities to a v o i d i m p l e m e n t i n g biometrics in the upcoming G e n e r a l a n d R e g i o n a l Elections.
S i n g h ’ s p o s i t i o n i s further bolstered by her legal c o u n t e r p a r t , R a l p h Ramkarran S.C, yet both are fully aware that laws are not immutable. Ramkarran, who served as Chairman of the 1999 Constitutional Reform Commission and Speaker of t h e N a t i o n a l A s s e m b l y, knows that laws can be a m e n d e d t o a l i g n w i t h societal needs, provided they don’t infringe on universal rights and freedoms.
The call for biometrics in the next elections is only growing louder, driven by the increasing threat to our
d e m o c r a c y, t h e o n g o i n g d i s r e g a r d f o r c i t i z e n s ’ f u n d a m e n t a l r i g h t s a n d freedoms, and the lack of proper stewardship of our
resources. The call reflects t h e p o l i t i c a l d e m a n d ( o b j e c t i v e ) f o r a n “inclusionary democracy”
t h a t r e c o g n i s e s e v e r y citizen’s right to be part of the electoral process.
R a m k a r r a n ’s d e f e n s e , invoking Articles 59 and 159 of the Constitution, is weak. Article 59, which outlines voter qualifications, states that every citizen aged 18 or o l d e r , o r a n y C o m m o n w e a l t h c i t i z e n domiciled and resident in Guyana, is eligible to vote.
Expressly Article 59 states:
“ S u b j e c t t o t h e provisions of article 159, every person may vote at an election if he or she is of the a g e e i g h t e e n y e a r s o r upwards and is either a c i t i z e n o f G u y a n a o r a
C o m m o n w e a l t h c i t i z e n domiciled and resident in Guyana.” Article 159 deals with the qualifications and d i s q u a l i f i c a t i o n s f o r electors, but neither article p r e c l u d e s t h e
i m p l e m e n t a t i o n o f biometrics.
It’s critical to remind
may react to that early sexualisation by rejecting sex –since it was connected with a violation. Issues of trust and guilt bedevil these unfortunate children as they mature and make emotional and sexual intimacy always problematic. In most countries of the world where surveys have been conducted, the percentage of individuals that reported sexual abuse at one time or the other in their lives invariably top the 50 percent mark. This should be a frightening statistic and our Ministry of Social Services should conduct a survey with the greatest urgency to discern the extent of the problem here, because although the numbers presented are very high, we believe that hundreds of other cases have gone unreported.
Ramkarran that Article 159
w a s a m e n d e d t h r o u g h
constitutional changes in 2001 (3 of 2001 to be exact),
a process that did not require a r e f e r e n d u m I f s u c h
a m e n d m e n t s w e r e m a d e then, they can be made again by the National Assembly in 2025.
I f J u s t i c e S i n g h a n d
R a m k a r r a n a r e t r u l y committed to democracy and understand the role of law in p r e s e r v i n g g o v e r n a n c e
s y s t e m s , t h e y w i l l n o t obstruct legitimate efforts to ensure free, fair, and credible elections—a demand echoed by the public.
The only thing standing in the way of a legislative solution is political will There is no legal barrier to r e v i s i t i n g t h e N a t i o n a l
A s s e m b l y t o p a s s t h e necessary laws, only the u n w i l l i n g n e s s o f t h o s e currently in power to act, including those seeking to provide them coverage not to act. Let us not forget that during the 2020 election, GECOM was granted the authority to make laws, and those actions were upheld by t h e C a r i b b e a n C o u r t o f Justice, the region’s highest court.
Justice Singh, aware of the longstanding call for biometrics, waited until the 9th hour to inform the nation
t h a t i t i s t o o l a t e t o i m p l e m e n t t h i s c r u c i a l r e f o r m T h i s f a i l u r e constitutes an abdication of her responsibility to the people of Guyana. A failure
w e m u s t n o t a c c e p t a s irreversible.
Since GECOM has the l e g a l a u t h o r i t y t o e n a c t necessary regulations, it is well within its power to propose amendments and demand cooperation from both the Opposition and Government benches in the N a t i o n a l A s s e m b l y i n getting it passed.
I n 1 9 9 0 , P r e s i d e n t D e s m o n d H o y t e a n d O p p o s i t i o n ( M i n o r i t y ) Leader Dr Cheddi Jagan returned to the National Assembly to amend the laws that established the current GECOM and reformed the electoral system. Although this was inconvenient to some, it was necessary to stabilise a society on the brink of crisis We face similar challenges today, and the need for remedial action t o e n s u r e s t a b i l i t y a n d growth is urgent.
Let me reiterate the trade u n i o n ’ s u n w a v e r i n g commitment to the principle of one-man-one-vote. This struggle began in 1926 under the leadership of Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow, t
National Hero. The fight for free, fair, and transparent elections is inseparable from
y Progressive trade unionists will not relent in defending this sacred right.
Sincerely Lincoln Lewis
DEAR EDITOR,
M S h a b e e r Z a f a r , Barrister Solicitor Notary, wrote in the Kaieteur News
Biometrics is not the panacea for elections Only deportees of Guyanese origin should return
( F e b 1 4 , 2 0 2 5 ) t h a t “Biometrics is (the) modern way for GECOM to do
b u s i n e s s , ” a n d i n d e e d , G l o b a l l y, b i o m e t r i c s i s t r e n d i n g a n d g a t h e r i n g impetus. However, many are m i s s i n g s o m e i m p o r t a n t
n t s r e g a r d i n g t h i s ‘ B i o m e t r i c s ’ t h i n g i n Guyana.
First, there must be the r e q u i s i t e l e g i s l a t i v e / c o n s t i t u t i o n a l provision. Without this, no matter if all the biometrics ‘readiness’ is in place, come elections in Guyana, 2025, there will be no biometrics.
Why?
Well, many from the
l e g a l f r a t e r n i t y h a v e enlightened on this topic, and by now, my expectation was, and still is, that all stakeholders would and will have quit harping about biometrics implementation. It will be wise to read and glean from the explanations of Ralph Ramkarran, the AG, Anil Nandlall and the Chair of GECOM, Chief
Justice retired, Claudette Singh. What irks me is that the opposition combined and t h e i r G E C O M
C o m m i s s i o n e r s , w i t h a battery of lawyers, have not helped to quell the ‘uncalled’ for futile ‘frettings’ of the ‘usual suspects’, bent of wasting time, or, if in fact, as the AG hinted, they are planning ‘an excuse for future accusations,’ when they will have lost the 2025 elections.
S e c o n d l y , G E C O M Chair, nor the PPP/C is averse to biometrics. As a m a t t e r o f f a c t , i t w a s explicitly brought out that b e f o r e b i o m e t r i c s i s i n t r o d u c e d ( e v e n i f a c c o m m o d a t e d legally/constitutionally), the groundwork must be laid.
T h i s t a k e s t i m e , e ff o r t , personnel and of course money (with the last being the least of the challenges, s i n c e t h e P P P / C h a s e a r m a r k e d a p p r o p r i a t e subventions).
R e f e r r i n g t o t h e Chairwoman’s explanations, she wisely informed the public that “In relation to w h e t h e r G E C O M c o u l d
i n t r o d u c e t h e d i g i t a l
collection of fingerprints and biometric fingerprint identification of voters in time for the 2025 General and Regional Elections, she said that it would still have to do major things such as: (a)
H o l d i n g s t
Government and Parliament
t o d e t
m i n e ; ( c ) Procurement of equipment
f o r t h e i n t r o d u c t i o n o f biometrics; (d) Training of staff on the use of such equipment; and (e) Public
systems.
Result: “With less than a year to go before these E
e number of tasks that would need to be done before such a s y s t e m c
p
o p e r l y introduced, and all of the work already required to prep
G
al and Regional Elections, I am convinced that this is not feasible within the time presently available.”
I f i r m l y a g r e e w i t h Madame Singh.
Editor, I have a final submission here and it is that no matter what people say or do, biometrics is not the panacea for elections. In the “Dawn-October 17th, 2014” the headline read that “Even E V M s , b i o m e t r i c s c a n ’t guarantee completely fair elections.” As the article s p e l l e d o u t , “ E l e c t r o n i c voting machines (EVMs)
and biometric verification systems are not the last word i n p o l l i n g s y s t e m s a n d around the world, countries a r e r e v e r t i n g t o o l dfashioned paper ballots due to the problems faced when i n c o r p o r a t i n g m o d e r n m e t h o d s i n t o e x i s t i n g electoral processes.”
Important to note from the report was that “Around the world, developed nations are moving back to a more p a p e r - b a s e d s y s t e m o f voting because there are fears regarding the viability o f e l e c t r o n i c v o t i n g mechanisms. The fact that e l e c t r o n i c v o t i n g mechanisms do not leave a p a p e r t r a i l , a n d m a y compromise voters’ right to secrecy, have forced many countries to revert.” Add to this, as was emphasized, citizens could ask for a review of the polling process at any point because the r e l e v a n t r e c o r d s w e r e available with government departments.
O v e r a l l , i n a n y d e m o c r a t i c c o u n t r y , a r e l i a b l e a n d f r a u d - f r e e electoral process is essential to establishing lasting peace a n d s t a b i l i t y T h e i d e a l voting method needs to hit three key targets: Fraud
(Continued on page 06)
DEAR EDITOR,
I quote the headline of an article that appeared in KN (15/2/25) “Guyana put on D o n a l d Tr u m p ’s l i s t t o accept African and Asian deportees”. The article went on to report that President Ali said, “there is nothing specific at this moment”.
I believe that all the d e p o r t e e s o f G u y a n e s e origin should be welcomed home. They will by now have most certainly realized that what Malcolm X said was true: “I don’t see any American dream; I see an American nightmare”. The racism is naked, that is, Guyanese migrants to the USA, legal or illegal, are not regarded in the same way as U k r a i n i a n s , m i g r a n t s o f other European origin and white South Africans. At the same time, OVP registers its absolute and unapologetic opposition to d
countries being dumped by the Trump administration in Guyana.
U
facilities and institutional capacity to address the basic needs of its own citizens, and on top of that an influx of G
Guyana is not the Empire’s dumping ground. The people they wish to send here are undocumented - we know nothing about them. Why would Guyana want to take them when they have their own countries to return to. If
they should stand up and put Guyana first, in the same way Trump is putting the US Empire first in his retooling.
Sincerely
Gerald A. Perreira
O
Victory of the People (OVP)
Vreed-en-Hoop man gets 4 years for human trafficking
AV
H o o p , W e s t
Coast Demerara man was jailed for four years for trafficking in persons and assault.
Asif Mohamed Abrahim was arrested and charged on
Monday for the offences. He
November 2023 and 18th
January 2024 at New Road
Vreed-en-Hoop, West Coast
D e m e r a r a A b r a h i m w a s found guilty by His Worship
Rabindranauth Singh at the Vreed-en-Hoop Magistrate’s Court. He was sentenced to 48 months on the trafficking in persons charge and one month on the assault charge. These sentences will run concurrently
My critics are preoccupied by my descriptive words, but they ignore my message
DEAR EDITOR,
I notice the president of our republic and members of
h i s p a r t y a r e b u s y d e n o u n c i n g m e f o r desecrating the legacy of Dr Walter Rodney My sin lies in my courage to raise in the open a
d a n g e r o u s d e v e l o p m e n t whereby the ruling party is u s i n g s o m e o f i t s n e w converts to go into selective communities to solicit the votes of poor people in exchange for government and State resources.
Such action is called “vote buying,” a practice that is not permitted by the constitution or by statutes and flies in the face of democratic engagement.
In passing let me say that I was part of the Walter Rodney cadre of Freedom Fighters. We fought for the
right of Guyanese to join any p o l i t i c a l p a r t y o f t h e i r choice. We fought for the right of political parties to recruit in any community I will fight to protect and preserve those rights till the day I die.
But we did not die and go to jail for the right of political parties to use State resources to buy votes. I will fight against such practice till the day I die.
M y c r i t i c s a r e p r e o c c u p i e d b y m y descriptive words, but they ignore my message. I chose to use folk language. T h e w o r d s u s e d a r e borrowed from the title of a calypso sung by Trinidadian calypsonian Cro Cro. Where is Walter Rodney in all this?
Well, fifty years ago, Rodney addressed a similar
phenomenon. He also used folk language. I am in no way comparing myself to the g r e a t m a n B u t f o r t h e education of the PPP leaders and the wider society, I quote from Rodney in his own words from one of his books titled, “Peoples Power No Dictator.”
“F or a s mall n atio n, G uyana has produced a discouragingly large number of lackeys and stooges who hide in the shadow of the “Comrade Leader.”
G u y a n e s e c o n s t a n t l y complain of “square pegs in round holes.” The square pegs are the misfits and soup d r i n k e r s w h o f l o u r i s h because each one is prepared to be his master ’s voice. This is a double tragedy in this situation.”
Regards David Hinds
From page 3
t h e G D F s a i d t h a t o n Monday a resupply patrol en route from Eteringbang to Makapa came under fire from a group of armed men p o s i t i o n e d o n t h e Venezuelan bank of the Cuyuni River
The patrol immediately responded to the attack and engaged the assailants with return fire. “During the exchange, several members o f t h e p a t r o l s u s t a i n e d gunshot injuries. Immediate e ff o r t s a r e u n d e r w a y t o ensure their safe extraction and medical treatment,” the statement read.
“ T h e G D F h a s b e e n mobilised to reinforce its p r e s e n c e i n t h e a r e a , ensuring the security of its personnel and safeguarding the territorial integrity of G u y a n a , ” t h e s t a t e m e n t continued. The GDF said that it remains committed to protecting its borders and w i l l t a k e a l l n e c e s s a r y measures to address any threats to national security
“The GDF is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as more
i n f o r m a t i o n b e c o m e s available. At this time, the safety and well-being of our troops remain our highest priority,” the statement concluded.
Sindicatos
T h i s n e w s p a p e r h a s frequently reported on how members of the Sindicato gang have harrassed miners and residents of Eteringbang Community located in the U p p e r C u y u n i - M a z a r u n
during interviews with this newspaper pleaded for the Government’s intervention and possible solution to the “
b u s
a n d “ o
g h t robberies” they are facing at the hands of the Venezuelan National Guard and the notorious sindicato gang.
Residents had detailed t h
Akarabis and Eteringbang (one National Guard and three Sindicatos).
The residents explained that at all four checkpoints, they have to stop and allow t h e a r m e d g u a r d s a n d Sindicatos to check their
boats, and added to that, depending on what they are transporting they are also required to pay, about $2000 per drum of fuel at all four checkpo
that they also have to pay when transporting food and other supplies.
Biometrics is not the panacea for elections...
From page 05 p r e v e n t i o n ; E n s u r i n g e v e r y v o t e b e l
r elections are invariably built on accurate, reliable and trusted systems for registering, i d e n t i f y i n g a n d a u t h e n t i c a t i n g v o t e r s . GECOM has all of these. In the 2020 elections, the previous government (now o p p o s i t i o n ) m a d e g l a m o r o u s
pronouncements on the elections and the work of GECOM, and only started ‘cussing out’ after their impending defeat. To date, t h e i r v a
o u s m a c h i n a t
o n s h a v e b e e n exposed by the courts (with a few more to come). Even now, they can resort to a legal challenge.
Yours truly, Hargesh B. Singh.
“In Hindsight, there was no Foresight”...
From page 04
I address the recent actions of some of our political l e a d e r s , p a r t i c u l a r l y D r David Hinds, whose words have caused significant stir
a n d c o n c e r n a m o n g t h e people of this country As one of our country’s most recognized academics and political figures, and the new leader of the party of the late, l e g e n d a r y a n d w o r l dr e n o w n e d s c h o l a r , D r Walter Rodney, Dr Hinds holds a position of influence. However, it is my firm belief
t h a t h i s r e c e n t r h e t o r i c , w h i c h h a s b e e n w i d e l y regarded as callous, divisive, offensive, irresponsible and outright disrespectful; runs contrary to the values we must uphold as a people. The deliberate and feral use of language that can perpetuate ethnic division and social strife irrespective of the message he believes he was
seeking to communicate, must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.
I c o n d e m n t h e m unequivocally!
Guyana’s history is one m a r k e d b y s l a v e r y , i n d e n t u r e s h i p , a n d engineered ethnic tensions. For much of our past, our society was divided along e t h n i c a n d r a c i a l l i n e s , p e r p e t u a t i n g a c y c l e o f inequality and discord. Yet, today, we stand in a far better place as a nation that, despite our historical challenges, we h a v e m a d e t r e m e n d o u s strides as a people towards unity and coexistence.
We have moved beyond the divisive barriers of the p a s t , a n d o u r p e o p l e r e g a r d l e s s o f e t h n i c i t y, culture, religion or creed can n o w c o e x i s t a n d w o r k together toward a common goal.
It is in this environment of healing and growth that we must continue to foster peace and inclusivity No group or organization in this
c o u n t r y i s b e h o l d e n t o another No group is superior or subservient to another No leader has a divine or other r i g h t o f o w n e r s h i p a n d
c o n t r o l o v e r a n y e t h n i c collective Every citizen, regardless of their ethnic b a c k g r o u n d , h a s t h e inalienable right to choose their path freely and without fear of reprisal from any among us.
If we, as a nation, are to succeed, we must embrace and hold sacrosanct, the diversity of our people,
This progress is not a mere accident; it is the result o f y e a r s o f s a c r i f i c e , d i a l o g u e , a n d c o n s c i o u s efforts to heal the wounds of o u r p a s t H e n c e t h e d e c l a r a t i o n , t o u s t h e Amerindians are important t o u s t h e C h i n e s e a r e i m p o r t a n t , t o u s t h e Portuguese are important, to u s t h e E u r o p e a n s a r e important, to us the mixed races are important, to us the Africans are important, to us Indians are important, in s h o r t , a l l G u y a n e s e a r e i m p o r t a n t a n d v a l u e d m e m b e r s o f o u r community.” LFS Burnham, still holds true and must remain indefatigably central to our national ethos.
respect their right to freedom of association and reject any form of rhetoric that seeks to divide or harm us.
It is not only the words t h e m s e l v e s t h a t a r e d a n g e r o u s ; i t i s t h e
underlying message they
c o n v e y W h e n a l e a d e r, especially one who claims to represent a specific ethnic group, uses language that is exclusionary, intolerant, or d i s m i s s i v e o f o t h e r s , i t u n d e r m i n e s t h e v e r y f o u n d a t i o n o f o u r
democracy A nation built on the principles of freedom, equality, and mutual respect cannot afford to have its leaders stoke the flames of division. Such rhetoric is not only counterproductive to the aspirations of our motto and efforts to unite our people. It is dangerous, as it can erode the trust and unity that we have worked so hard to cultivate.
A s a n o p p o s i t i o n Member of Parliament, I feel a d e e p s e n s e o f responsibility to not only hold the government of the
day to account, but also other leaders of influence in our society, as I strive to lead by
example I have always believed that my role as a public servant is to serve the people of Guyana, all the people of Guyana without distinction, because all are i n v o l v e d a n d a l l a r e consumed in this noble task of nation building, and in the humility and humanity of m y s e r v i c e , I s e e o n l y people, not their ethnicity
It is with this same spirit that I call upon all my c o l l e a g u e s , a c r o s s p a r t y l i n e s , t o u n d e r s t a n d t h e weight of their words and the responsibility they bear as leaders of our beautiful, d i v e r s e , a n d e m e r g i n g country
In this critical moment, we must all remember that words can either unite or divide. We must strive to use our voices to inspire peace, for unity and progress, and for a brighter future of our c h i l d r e n A s f e l l o w Guyanese, we are at the t h r e s h o l d o f a c h i e v i n g
greatness, but to reach that potential, we must remain steadfast in our commitment to each other and to the values that define us. It is only by embracing strength in our diversity and fostering a spirit of inclusivity that we c a n t r u l y a c h i e v e t h e national aspirations of One People, One Nation, One Destiny
Let us choose our words wisely, for in doing so, we shape not only the present but the future of our beloved G u y a n a O u r n a t i o n ’ s destiny is in our hands, and it i s o u r d u t y, o u r m o r a l responsibility to ensure that we pave a path that is inclusive, respectful, and united. Now, more than ever, we must stand together in demanding unity, equality and equity for a forward, p r o g r e s s i v
e v e r y G u y a n e s e t o experience prosperity at this juncture in our history
Yours respectfully, H o n . J e r m a i n e Figueira.MP
Since
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh
Since the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) took office in August 2020, a total of 2,832 public servants have resigned, as at the end of December 2024. This means that during the period, an average of two employees left the public service daily
This information was provided to the National Assembly on Monday by Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh.
He was asked by former Public Service Minister, Tabitha Sarabo-Haley to indicate the number of public servants, including nurses, doctors, teachers, police officers and soldiers who have tendered their resignation between the period August 2020 and November 2024.
In his response, Dr Singh pointed out that teachers, police officers and soldiers do not fall under the traditional public service; as such he provided the House with the number of employees that fall under this remit.
He said, “In relation to those agencies and categories of public sector employees who do fall within the remit of the Public Service Ministry, it is my duty to inform the honourable member that a total of 2,832 employees are...estimated to have resigned from the public service between the period August 2020 to December 2024.”
Sarabo-Haley therefore asked the Minister to say what systems have been put in place to reduce the level of public sector resignations or whether government considers this a normal amount.
To this end, Dr. Singh told the House that the local economy is undergoing significant changes. He explained that since the return of the PPP, there has been a clear increase in the rate of economic growth and expansion of private sector activities across the spectrum of productive activities and entry of new investors, both foreign and domestic, creating employment opportunities. That means that all citizens now have a wider array of employment opportunities than in any other time in our country’s history, according to him. The Minister therefore noted that this has had implications on the mobility of labour as citizens are now able to assess their opportunities and pursue those which they prefer In fact he said, “We are going further and we are investing heavily in training for all Guyanese people, not just public servants (but) including public servants of course.” In the meantime, the minister added that government has been raising the terms and conditions of employment in the public service.
These improvements are noticeable in the multi-year wage agreements, adjustments in allowances and other nonwage benefits, including initiatives to ensure citizens have access to house-lots, better access to social services, among other, he said.
This has led to the private sector employees also being attracted to the public service in recent times, as has been the case with teachers for example. Presently, some 8,173 individuals are hired on contract by the government. Their salaries according to Minister Singh are in keeping with the normal public sector wages. Dr Singh also noted that government has given employees the option of remaining on contract, since some prefer to receive 22.5% gratuity instead of pension.
Debate on controversial Engineer’s Bill deferred
T
controversial Engineer ’s Bill has been deferred by the Government of Guyana amid
M
Public Works, Juan Edghill, said that efforts are being made to address issues.
Kaieteur News reached out to Edghill for a comment, but he was unavailable. He was however quoted in the
“There are a number of commentaries that I have received, as the custodian of
d i s c u s s
n g w i t h m y colleagues and a course of action would be taken that is most appropriate to ensure that the concerns that are raised are weighed for their proper place, so I don’t think there will be a debate on the Bill…” he said.
Opposition Member of P a r l i a m e n t , G a n e s h Mahipaul when contacted, said that government had deferred the bill. “What we in the Opposition expect is for it to go to a Special Select Committee so that all of us c a n b e m e a n i n g f u l l y engaged, but it looks like the government might just dump the Bill in a corner because it has raised several eyebrows and objections from us the opposition.” Mahipaul said there is no indication as yet “but we are hopeful that the
government sees this as a necessary action that doesn’t require us to be political with e a c h o t h e r N o t h i n g i s guaranteed as yet”. The Bill w a s t a b l e d l a s t y e a r December
Th e p r o p o s ed law is aimed at providing for the r e g i s t r a t i o n , l i c e n s i n g ,
a d m i n i s t r a t i o n , a n d disciplining of professional engineers, while fostering professional integrity and protecting public interests. Among other provisions the B i l l c a t e r s f o r t h e
e s t a b l i s h m e n t o f a n
E n g i n e e r i n g R e g i s t r a t i o n Board, which will regulate the profession and ensure a c c o u n t a b i l i t y a m o n g
e n g i n e e r s o p e r a t i n g i n Guyana. The board will also promote standards in line with the CARIFORUM-EU
E c o n o m i c P a r t n e r s h i p
Agreement (EPA), which Guyana has provisionally applied for since 2008.
OPPOSITION
AMENDMENTS
Meanwhile, on Monday several amendments to a number of clauses within the Bill were tabled by Shadow Minister of Public Works, D a v i d P a t e r s o n a n d h i s colleague MP, Mahipaul The amendments are seeking changes to the Clauses in the form of additions in some, replacing words in others and the complete deletion of a few
Clause 3 (1)(d) has a p r o p o s e d a d d i t i o n a f t e r public interest to say “having knowledge and experience o f m a t t e r s r e l e v a n t t o engineering and drawn from areas of business, finance, l a w n p h y s i c a l p l a n n i n g , n a t u r a l s c i e
surveying, architecture and engineering. Clause 9 (1) s h o u l
18(3) and 19(3) they are
replaced with ‘Board’. In the case of Clause 22 it is proposed that it should be
y replaced, while Clause 32 should be renumbered to read Clause 32 (1). They are also proposing that Clause 32 (2) be replaced with a new
Registrar shall remain and p u
B
d ’s website, an alphabetical list of members who are in good standing for that year ’. New s
e a l s o suggested for Clauses 44 (6) and 49 (2)(d), while a Continued on page 17
GDF’s €$39.5M ocean patrol vessel to ar r ive next year
Chief of Defence Staff of the Guyana Defence Force ( G D F ) , B r i g a d i e r O m a r Khan said the €39.5 million ocean patrol vessel which was procured for the military will arrive in the country next year
K h a n m a d e t h i s disclosure at GDF’s Annual Officer ’s Conference which was held last week Thursday While speaking about GDF’s maritime achievements and their assets in areas of air, land and sea, Brigadier Khan said, “The maritime domain saw the arrival of the 115-ft GDF S. Shahoud, a near coastal patrol vessel and followed by the single most expensive investment in the h i s t o
Defence Force $39.5 million Euros, the order of an ocean p a t r o l v e s s e l w h i c h i s scheduled on completion of construction to arrive in 2026.”
As it relates to this vessel, in April 2024, the GDF and OCEA S.A. out of France signed a Letter of Intent for
Chief of Defence Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Brigadier Omar Khan
t h e p r o c u r e m e n t o f a n Offshore Patrol Vessel slated to cost €39.5 million, at the Ministry of Finance office. I n a r e l e a s e b y t h e ministry at the time, it was reported that Senior Minister in the Office of the President w i t h R e s p o n s i b i l i t y f o r F i n a n c e a n d t h e P u b l i c Service, Dr Ashni Singh who oversaw the signing of t h e a g r e e m e
e m p h a s i s e d t h a t Government in its decision making is being guided by
the vision of President Irfaan Ali, the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, who from the first days of his P
within its power to ensure that the armed forces are a d e q u a t e l y e q
rding the nation’s territorial integrity
patrol boats and offshore patrol vessels, designed for
purpose of the LOI is to define the scope, price and
schedule for the procurement of the model 190 Offshore Patrol Vessel. The price of the vessel includes the cost of the vessel and its equipment, and the integrated logistics support services inclusive of
The Senior Minister had n o t e d t h a t t h i s v e s s e l r e p r e s e n t s t h e l a t e s t installment in the realization of President Ali’s vision and commitment to ensure that the GDF is well equipped and capable of discharging its very important functions. It was further reported that OCEA S.A. specialises in the design, building and
period.
Opposition Member of Parliament
Ganesh Mahipaul
Shadow Minister of Public Works David Paterson
Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill
Mashr amani must br eak from the shackles of imita tion
Ma s h r a m a n i , h e r a l d e d a s G u y a n a ’ s grand national celebration, is often presented as a festival of cultural expression, a vibrant display of unity, and a tribute to our hard-won Republican status. Yet, after more than five decades, an u n c o m f o r t a b l e t r u t h
p e r s i s t s M a s h r a m a n i remains a poor imitation of Trinidad’s Carnival rather than a genuine reflection of Guyanese culture.
It is a festival steeped in borrowed traditions. It is a feeble attempt to replicate the vibrancy of a celebration that is neither ours in origin nor suited to our unique diverse cultural heritage. At its core, Mashramani lacks
o r i g i n a l i t y T h e F l o a t Parade, the flagship event of the festival, is a glaring example of this deficiency What was envisioned as a d i s t i n c t i v e l y G u y a n e s e expression of festivity has instead become a patchwork
o f i m p o r t e d a e s t h e t i c s e l a b o r a t e b u t uninspired costumes, socadriven revelry, and an overall spectacle that mirrors the bacchanalian excesses of Carnival. The question that lingers is this: why has a festival meant to celebrate Guyana’s identity become so dependent on the cultural blueprint of another nation? T
o r d meaning “celebration after hard work,” suggests a deep i n d i g e n o u s c o n n e c t i o n
However, the festival itself has little to do with our i n d i g e n o u s c o m m u n
i e s Their contributions remain tokenistic, relegated to the periphery of the main event
r a t h e r t h a n f o r m i n g a n i n t e g r a l p a r t o f t h e celebration. This exclusion
u n d e r s c o r e s t h e s u p e r f i c i a l i t y o f Mashramani’s claim to be a festival of national unity
Successive governments have attempted to inject a sense of inclusivity into
M a s h r a m a n i b y a d d i n g
e l e m e n t s l i k e c h u t n e y performances and dance hall competitions. Yet, these are m e r e l y c o s m e t i c adjustments, not substantive efforts to create a festival that authentically represents t h e f u l l s p e c t r u m o f Guyanese cultural traditions.
I n c l u s i v i t y c a n n o t b e achieved through tokenistic representation; it must be a foundational principle of the festival, interwoven into its structure and ethos.
T o a p p r e c i a t e t h e festival’s shortcomings, one m u s t f i r s t e x a m i n e t h e fundamental issue—Guyana
h a s y e t t o d e f i n e w h a t
c o n s t i t u t e s i t s c u l t u r a l identity Our society is not a
m e l t i n g p o t o f A f r i c a n ,
I n d i a n , I n d i g e n o u s , Portuguese, Chinese, and
European influences. It is more like a salad bowl of different cultures. We do not possess a singular cultural identity Yet, rather than
s e diverse cultural elements can c o a l e s c e i n t o a u n i q u e cultural expression, we have taken the easier route of mimicry This approach has f
celebration, instead leaving us with a festival that feels
represent.
If Mashramani is to be
reimagined from the ground up. This means shedding the
Carnival and engaging in
about how our traditions, h
e x p r e s s i o
s c a n b e showcased in a way that is u n i q u e l y G u y a n e s e We must ask ourselves: where is the storytelling component in Mashramani? Where are the folk traditions, the oral histories, the dramatic reenactments of our collective s t r u g g l e s a n d t r i u m p h s ? Where are the masquerades that tell the stories of our ancestors, the performances that reflect our folklore and mythology? Where are the d a n c i n g , d r u m m i n g a n d dress of Indians, the Chinese
DEM BOYS SEH
Back in de old days, when a funeral pass, traffic used to stop. Not because people like traffic jam, but outta respect fuh de dead. Yuh see a hearse, yuh pull over, yuh bow yuh head, and yuh let de procession pass. Dat was de way tings been. But Sunday gone, de East Coast shut down AFTER de funeral—an’ it wasn’t outta respect. It was a whole next kinda disrespect – fuh de living.
Dem boys seh when yuh dead, yuh supposed to go in peace, not cause confusion on de road. But wah really went on Sunday evening deserve a full-scale Commission of Inquiry! De East Coast road turn into one big parking lot. Cars, buses, motorbikes—everybody jam up. Some people seh it tek two hours to move 200 feet People miss flights, miss appointments, some even nearly miss dinner—an’ yuh know Guyanese don’t play when food involve.
Dem boys seh is one ting fuh mourn de dead, but wah really disrespectful is when
d r a g o n d a n c e s , t h e Portuguese folk music, and t h e A m e r i n d i a n expressions? Where are the r e e n a c t m e n t s o f o u r i n d e n t u r e d l a b o r e r s ’
r e s i l i e n c e , t h e v i b r a n t
e x p r e s s i o n s o f o u r Indigenous petroglyphs, and the Chinese and Portuguese
a n c e s t r a l r i t e s t h a t a r e
s u p p o s e d t o s h a p e o u r
d i v e r s e c u l t u r a l expressions? A festival that c l a i m s t o b e a c u l t u r a l celebration must do more
t h a n s i m p l y p r o v i d e a
p l a t f o r m f o r r e v e l r y i t must educate, enlighten, and
e v o k e a d e e p s e n s e o f
b e l o n g i n g a m o n g i t s participants.
O t h e r c o u n t r i e s w i t h equally diverse populations
h a v e m a n a g e d t o c r a f t
c e l e b r a t i o n s t h a t a r e reflective of their identities. Take, for example, Brazil’s Festa Junina, which pays homage to rural traditions while being celebrated in a way that is distinct from the c o u n t r y ’s w o r l d - f a m o u s
C a r n i v a l O r c o n s i d e r
B a r b a d o s ’ C r o p O v e r ,
which, while sharing some similarities with Carnival, is deeply rooted in the island’s h i s t o r y o f s u g a r c a n e production and the legacy of enslaved Africans These festivals are not mere copies of something else; they are unique cultural expressions that tell the stories of their people.
If we are to truly honour the spirit of Mashramani, we must break free from the shackles of imitation. This requires a radical rethinking of the festival’s format, a commi
a u t h e n t i c G u y a n e s e a r t forms, and a willingness to engage in the difficult but necessary work of cultural introspection. It may take y e a r s , e v e n d e c a d e s , t o redefine Mashramani into something that is distinctly ours, but the alternative is far w o r s e a c o n t i n u e d c e l e b r a t i o n o f b o r r o w e d traditions that do little to instill a sense of national pride.
Guyana deserves better We deserve a festival that speaks to all of our peoples,
one that captures the essence of each of us. We have been brainwashed into accepting a national motto that speaks to “ one people”. But we are not one people.
We are land of many peoples and our cultural heritage is embedded in this fact. The path to discovering our unity in diversity will not be easy, but it is a journey worth embarking on.
The question remains: do we have the courage to a b a n d o n t h e s a f e t y o f imitation and embrace the challenge of defining our own cultural identity?
U n t i l
what it has always been—a h o
l o w r e f l e c t i o n o f a celebration that is not truly ours.
(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.)
yuh torment de livin’. How yuh could block off de main road fuh yuh post-funeral party? Who authorize dis? An’ more importantly, why police nah stop it? But at least there was some poetic justice: some of the mourners get snarl in de traffic logjam
Is like some drivers see de confusion an’ decide fuh add dem own brand of lawlessness. Minibus man tun one-lane road into three-lane. Private car people play Formula One through side streets. And de tow-truck? De two-truck was probably home tekkin’ a Sunday nap. Dis nah must never happen again! Next time yuh planning a big send-off, find a venue, find a large playground. Deh gat plenty fuh host yuh repass, or better yet—find some common sense. People got places to go, tings to do, an’ unlike de dearly departed, dem actually got a schedule to keep.
Dem boys seh yuh cyan respect de dead by punishing de livin’! Talk half. Leff half.
H@RD TRUTHS
Serenades aka noise pollution
It is approaching 04:30hrs on Monday The edge of the dawn, the first hints at whatever the day brings. I have company It is the sound of music. I always thought that the happiest people in this c o u n t r y w e r e D r s A l
, Irfaan A
, Bharrat Jagdeo, Anil Nandlall, Ashni Singh, and selected others in Guyana’s political firmament.
The opposition has its joyful presences. Not those who have crossed over Think of the ones who haven’t done so yet. But really, people: music at 04:30hrs on a Monday? Yeah, there are some Guyanese who are that happy in this country
If this is in Georgetown City, now Old Beirut and Casablanca rolled into one, I shudder at what is happening in that arcadia called Leonora. Reports are that the bacchanals continue unabated, with frenzied elections celebrations.
Think pre-elections 2025, and not post August 2020. In trying to wrap my head around this national noise pollution crisis, I marvel at the iron grip that the private sector has over the PPP Government, and its top dogs, Drs. Ali and Jagdeo. The
s hometown roots in its (villagers) hour of need, while the latter who never knew the word class, has suddenly discovered that there is something called culture.
It is the kind of culture that only a grand old man of Guyana like B. Jagdeo could claim as his own. He is getting up there in age, isn’t he, with glazed eyes, anxiety-ridden face, sweaty skin, hostile manner?
Now, with his kind permission, I proceed to share with him and all Guyana, culture, BJ style.
Try a revving, roaring, big bike by a hospital. Try horns competing f o r f i r s t p l a c e a n y w h e r e a n d everywhere in Guyana, including hospitals. Dr Jagdeo is right:
G u y a n e s e h a
f celebrating, and it is not after 10 at night, but what has now become nights without end, and a town without pity.
The villagers in Leonora can provide ample testimony to both, through their circumstances lived.
If I knew that owning a high-priced rum-shop commanded such power, such reach, I would have been the undisputed leader in that kind of business. Blast at all hours and at
the highest volume my Drifters and Led Zeppelin, and what’s that other one: ram a dang, ding dong to let the world know my closeness to the PPP Government (and its leaders). T
e immunities from application of the law that I can buy Success with buying political protection from noise pollution tearaways, could give ideas about success with obtaining acres of prime land.
H o w z a t f o r a b o n a f i d e entrepreneurial spirit? The Guyana (PPP Govt) way, of course.
If I can get away with nuff noise, I could get away with nuff
y killing, Guyanese.
For all intents and purposes, noise nuisance now enjoys the blessings of the PPP Government. In the interests of democratic tolerance, I invite the Hon. Chief L
Guy
D
A
il Nandlall to have a say and confirm it is so. That is, the national noise nuisance plague has been secretly approved by the PPP Government. Or, he can castigate me for saying so. Just don’t curse, Viscount Anil;
leave that to the other two lovelies. What else can I say when the facts are as outlined below Top Cop, Dr Clifton Hicken, went to Leonora and gave solemn assurances to the residents: this confounded nonsense has to stop, and it will. Somebody’s will have t o b e s t r o n g e r t h a n t h a t o f
Commissioner Hicken. The Hon. Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Robeson Benn visited Leonora, took a looksee, met with some people, and swore on, ah, The West on Trial that noise nuisance will go down, down, down. Seems to me that Minister Benn is the one down on the ground.
To repeat, I just have to get into t h i s r u m - s h o p a n d
u k e b o x business. It pays to know the right people. I know all of them: Ali, Jagdeo, Nand
, Hicken, and Benn, and they all have a special regard for these epistles that are the equivalent of daggers in their eyes. I thought of saying souls, but where to find was my struggle.
Noise nuisance in Guyana is not at crisis proportions anymore Noise nuisance, noise pollution, is like smog over New Delhi and Los Angeles. It is beyond a dreadful
calamity Noise pollution is a goddamn catastrophe, thanks to the PPP and its galaxy of heroic leaders. This Guyana that now belongs to Exxon and America, lock, stock, and barrel, is now the
Seventh Circle of Hell. All the ho
d genies that the PPP Government’s b r a
n defenseless Guyanese have been drilled into their ears, bludgeon their minds.
From villagers to sick patients, from city residents to remote rural c o m m u n
t i e s , i t i s
h i s n o i s e pollution horror story, thanks to the PPP of Ali, Jagdeo, Nandlall et al. I think I am going to get off my derriere and form a political party The Mission Statement is: Truth, Justice, and the Guyanese Way Noise pollution, corruption, land movement, oil leadership. Alistair, ah comin fuh yu’all an dah contrak.
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
BLUNT BLUNT
T he debt trap
Gover nment continues to bor row its way to ‘develop’ this countr y- something which they have stoutly def ended. Our exter nal debt has climbed to around US$6B and VP Bhar rat Jagdeo believes because we are ear ning from oil it is okay to bor row more
T he thing is, Guyana’s reliance on oil exposes it to economic catastrophe When oil pr ices tumble, as they inevitably will, the gover nment will be f orced to lean on non-oil revenues to sustain its activities. Herein lies the debt trap: if non-oil revenues are siphoned off to ser vice exter nal debt, the result will be devastating cuts in public expenditure Hospitals will suff er, infrastr ucture will decay, and social ser vices will be gutted. T his is the inescapable consequence of Jagdeo’s f oolish bravado—mor tgaging Guyana’s future f or the mirage of immediate growth.
A downtur n in oil pr ices will inevitably lead to depreciation of the Guyanese dollar, making f oreign-denominated debt more expensive to ser vice. T his will tr igger inflation, fur ther eroding any supposed economic gains. T he GDP figure will become meaningless as the cost-of-living spirals out of control. At that point, the gover nment will have only two choices—either to def ault on its obligations or to impose draconian auster ity measures.
Japanese ship builder earned US$2.2B
from contract in Guyana within 2 years
…company raked in US$1.3B in 2024, US$823M in 2023
J a p a n e s e s h i p - b u i l d e r
M O D E C e a r n e d a b o u t
U S $ 2 2 b
c
M
l Guyana Limited (EMGL) for t
h development in the Stabroek Block – Uaru.
MODEC is c
the world’s second largest
p r o d u c t
o n c o m p a n y o f floating, production, storage
recently published its 2024
disclosed that the company earned US$1.3 billion from its contract with Exxon for
E
offloading systems (FPSO) and earned US$823 million from the contract in 2023.
ExxonMobil Guyana hired MODEC to construct its fifth oil ship.
32 received cultural, creative industr y grant in 2024
Equinor in Brazil earned the company US$2.2 billion in 2024, which is more than
earnings for that year
With a topside designed
250,000 barrels of oil per day, the FPSO Errea Wittu
will have an associated gas
540 million cubic feet per day, a water injection capacity of 350,000 barrels per day, and produced water capacity of 300,000 barrels per day The v
delivered to ExxonMobil in 2026.
The Japanese player has already hired several players for work on the FPSO Errea Wittu.
sea floor at approximately 1 , 4 5 0 t o 1 , 9 5 0 m w a t e r depth.
T h e F P S O w i l l b e
m o o r e d o n l o c a t i o n i n
a p p r o x i m a t e l y 1 , 6 9 0 m o f water depth and will remain on location throughout the production stage, according to EEPGL, which will have the peak capacity to produce up to approximately 220,000 barrels to 275,000 barrels of oil per day Processed oil will
The Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports last year awarded grants to 32 artists a n d m u s i c i a n s T h i s
provided by Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sports Charles Ramson, in response to a question from Nima Flue Bess, the Shadow Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sports for the Opposition.
Each grant, totaling $1 million, aims to assist individuals in expanding existing busin
establishing new ventures that contribute to G
entrepreneurial landscape.
This publication reported in February, 2024 that Minister Ramson emphasised that
Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sports Charles Ramson
ambassadors, supporting and promoting Guyana’s diverse culture. He highlighted the importance of changing perspectives within the creative industry, both locally and globally, by utilising this support to create sustainable ventures.
“ Yo u a r e u
investment [to] create something that you can build for yourself and can now invest in other people,” Minister Ramson said then. The grants cover various creative endeavours, including publications, films, music, and
y allocates $30 million annually to support the initiative.
Formally titled the Uaru D e v e l o p m e n t P r o j e
(Uaru), EMGL is proposing
facilities offshore Guyana in the Stabroek Block alone.
This fifth development is to be located in the eastern p o r t i o n o f t h e S t a b r o e k
B l o c k ; a p p r o x i m a t e l y 2 0 0 k m f r o m G e o
with production from Uaru P
years.
I t i s e n v i s a g e d t h a t
EEPGL will drill between 40 t o 7 6 w e l l s o f f s h o r e t o support extraction of the oil from below the sea floor
Each well will be drilled using a drillship and EMGL will install some of the oil production facilities on the
b e s t o r e d i n c a rg o t a n k s inside the FPSO hull which have the capacity to hold approximately two million barrels of oil.
It was noted that during p e a k p r o d u c t i o n , a p p r o x i m a t e l y e v e r y f o u r days, the oil will be pumped f r o m t h e F P S O t o a c o n v e n t i o n a l o i l t a n k e r , which is owned/operated by third parties.
A c c o r d i n g t o t h e company, Exxon will utilise onshore support facilities to support drilling the wells, i n s t a l l i n g t h e o f f s h o r e
p r o d u c t i o n f a c i l i t i e s , a n d
o p e r a t i n g t h e o f f s h o r e
p r o d u c t i o n f a c i l i t i e s T h e
Project Document suggests “this will include but is not l i m i t e d t o s h o r e b a s e s , w a r e h o u s e s , s t o r a g e a n d
p i p e y a r d s , f a b r i c a t i o n f a c i l i t i e s , f u e l s u
Over 1,000 grams of ganja found in Mazaruni Prison
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Saturday found 1,048 grams of m a
prohibited items during a police raid at the Mazaruni Prison.
According to a press statement the raid was conducted from 06:00h and 09:15h in the Sibley Hall section of the prison. P o l i c
c
s conducted the raid, when they found, 15 plastic bags containing 1048.1 grams of s u s p e c
s
d weapons, 29 lighters, four scissors, two pocket knives and two cellular phones.
Some of the contraband found in the Mazaruni Prison
Field development: Mode Chairman, Takeshi Kanamori.
(Photo: MODEC)
Govt. plans ser ies of activities to mark 55th Republic
Anniversar
y in New York
T h e G o v e r n m e n t o f G u y a n a h a s announced that a series of activities will be held in New York to commemorate the country’s 55th Republic Anniversary
These activities will be undertaken to highlight Guyana’s rich heritage, national development, tourism, natural beauty, and cultural and religious diversity Accordingly, a senior representative from the Government of Guyana will travel to New York to participate in the series of commemorative activities.
According to a Department of Public Information (DPI) release, the celebrations will commence at 12:00 am on Sunday, 23 February 2025, at Times Square, 1552 Broadway, where a special visual display honouring our Republic Anniversary will begin airing on four giant screens.
The video will be aired three times per hour, 24 hours a day, until 01 March 2025, ensuring that the heart of New York City shines with Guyanese pride.
This landmark activity showcases and symbolises the resilience and unity of our people, it appropriately depicts Guyana on one of the world’s most renowned platforms, Times Square.
A
Michael E. Brotherson, Guyana’s Consul General in New York and H.E. Ambassador
C
Representative of the Cooperative Republic
of Guyana to the United Nati
collaboration with the Guyana Cultural
Association of New York Inc, will host a Republic Anniversary Interfaith Church Service at St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church, 331 Hawthorne Street, Brooklyn, NY11225 beginning at 3:00 PM. T
members of the Diaspora, New York State and City officials, and members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps in New Yo
followed by a Reception and Cultural presentation
In addition, the Consulate General has also arranged for the Mid-Hudson Bridge in Poughkeepsie, New York, to be illuminated with the colours of Guyana’s National Flag from sunset on February 22 to sunset on February 23.
The lighting of the Bridge is extremely significant as it serves as an appropriate symbolic gesture which underscores the fact that the Guyanese Diaspora permeates the State of New York and is well represented in areas outside of the five Boroughs of New York City, including upstate New York.
The Consulate General in New York wishes to extend sincere gratitude to the Guyanese community for their continued commitment to national development and cultural preservation. Observing our 55th R e p u b l i c A n n i v e r s a r y i s n o t o n l y a celebration of our past and present, but also a reaffirmation of our collective vision for a future defined by progress, prosperity, and unity
WANTED
Kitchen Assistant needed Tel: 676-5534 / 709-8131 Famous Flavour Restaurant.
Job openings: Truck drivers, project manager & Civil engineers. To apply send application via Whatsapp : 638-5303 / 608-2114.
Porters needed at Rabbies Snackette 266 Thomas & New Market St. Call : 6488279.
1- Excavator Operator, 2 Concrete Mixer Truck Driver. Contact : 652-0251 / 632-9929 / 655-3880.
Experienced male cooks and camp attendants wanted for mining operation. Call : 688-6575.
Experienced Utility operators ( excavator, bulldozer, ADT) and mechanic wanted for mining operation. Call : 688-6575.
One nanny / Housekeeper Time 8:00 AM to 4 :30 PM located Republic Park, East Bank Demerara. Age 30-45 years. Contact : 6264884
FOR SALE
For Sale 6 used American made Dental chairs excellent condition contact Mr Vino on 661-3030 or 6268918
One Nissan Double cab pickup, fully off road setup ; -5 Million Negotiable. Call: 626-8919 / 661-3030.
FOR RENT
Prime business area at Affiance, Essequibo Coast for rent bottom flat- Office
600 sq ft, industrial 1400 sq ft. Call: 670-2554.
VEHICLES FOR SALE
One Unregistered Nissan X-Trail 2016 model, Mode Premiere. Call : 649-0956.
1 Honda CRV, includes TV, music system, alarm, reverse camera, spoiler, crash, low mileage PTT Series (first owner). Call: 649-0956.
GPL seeking contractor to supply, install and configure
networking equipment for gas-to-energy project
The Guyana Power and Light Incorpo rated (GPL Inc) is seeking a contractor to supply, install and configure specialised networking equipment for the integration of the Gas to Energy Projects onto the Demerara Berbice Interconnected System and the Guyana National Control Center.
Persons who are inter-
Maid to clean for East Bank area. Call: 615-9132.
Female cleaner for Eccles office. Call : 615-9132 / 645-8443.
One clerk for TSI Eccles office English 1, Maths 2. Call : 615-9132 or email application to techserigy@yahoo.com
Male / female needed to work in the Interior, ages 18 years and older. Call: 699-8486. Male / female needed to work in supermarket in the Interior, ages 18 years and older. Call: 674-9999.
Live-in Domestic needed, Must know to cook & Bake. Attractive salary offered. Call: 699-8486.
General Domestic , cook , iron, clean house ECT. Apply Keyfood Mc Doom village next to the post office . 3day work
One driver to make purchases in Georgetown. Contact : 701-4000.
Desk staff, Handyman/ Licensed driver 21-45 years old, Receptionist, Supervisor, Room attendant. 233 South Road Lacytown. 225-0198.
Vacancy exists for Porter, Driver, Cashier Apply 16 Vlissengen Rd., Newtown Kitty Email: humanresource.survival@gmail.com
Vacancy exists for one nanny to work in New Haven Bel Air, Must have experience. Call : 690-5434 / 624-1473
One night Watchman needed. Call: 731-2125.
Vacancy for one General Cook, Must know about creole food especially roti, Puri & Bake, Mon- Fri. Call : 6962520.
SERVICES
Need a grocery shopper, ship chandler or visa application preparer: USA, Canada, UK ETA? 626-7040.
Elevate your brand with our professional Graphic design services. Call: 619-0007, 6295526.
ested in the project can uplift bid documents from the Procurement Office, Guyana Power and Light Inc 40 Main Street Georgetown, upon payment of a non-refundable fee of $5000. Bids that are addressed to the Chairman of the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) Ministry of Finance Main and Urquhart Streets
Georgetown, will be accepted from February 17 until March 30th, 2025.
There have been talks for some time now to carry out much needed upgrades to the country’s national grid for it to be stable enough to transmit power from the Gas-to Energy project as well as the two power ships Guyana is currently renting.
Top Russian and American officials will hold talks on ending the Ukraine war without Kyiva
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (AP) — Senior American and Russian officials, including the countries’ top diplomats, will hold talks on improving their ties and negotiating an end to the war in Ukraine, officials said Monday, in what would be the most significant meeting between the sides since Moscow’s full-scale invasion of its neighbor nearly three years ago.
The talks scheduled for Tuesday in Saudi Arabia mark another pivotal step by the Trump administration to reverse U.S. policy on isolating Russia, and are meant to pave the way for a meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The recent U.S. diplomatic blitz on the war has sent Kyiv and key allies scrambling to ensure a seat at the table amid concerns that Washington and Moscow could press ahead with a deal that won’t be favorable to them. France called an emergency meeting of European Union countries and the U.K. on Monday to decide how to respond.
VEHICLES FOR SALE
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Putin’s foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov arrived in the Saudi capital on Monday, according to Russian state TV. Ushakov said the talks would be “purely bilateral” and would not include Ukrainian officials. Many weary Ukrainians long for an end to the war but now fear it will come on unfavorable terms.
The U.S. delegation, he said, is made up of “serious people” but said Russia “came with a serious approach too.” It is important, Ushakov said, “to start the real normalization of relations” between Russia and the U.S. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, national security adviser Mike Waltz and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff will meet the Russian delegation, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the talks will be primarily focused on “restoring the entire range of U.S.-Russian relations, as well as preparing possible talks on the Ukrainian settlement and organizing a meeting of the two presidents.”
Bruce said the meeting is aimed at determining how serious the Russians are about wanting peace and whether detailed negotiations can be started.
“I think the goal, obviously, for everyone is to determine if this is something that can move forward,” she told reporters traveling with Rubio in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Bruce said that even though Ukraine would not be at the table for Tuesday’s talks, actual peace negotiations would only take place with Ukraine’s involvement. Kyiv’s participation in any peace talks was a bedrock of U.S. policy under Trump’s predecessor, Joe Biden.
Speaking on Fox News Channel’s “Sunday Morning Futures” program, Witkoff said he and Waltz will be “having meetings at the direction of the president,” and hope to make “some really good progress with regard to Russia-Ukraine.” Witkoff didn’t directly respond to a question about whether Ukraine would have to give up a “significant portion” of its territory as part of any negotiated settlement. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said last week that NATO membership for Ukraine was unrealistic and suggested Kyiv should abandon hopes of winning all its territory back from Russia — two key items on Putin’s wish list. The talks would mark a significant expansion of U.S.-Russian contacts, nearly three years into a war that has seen ties fall to the lowest level in decades. Lavrov and then-U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken talked briefly on the sidelines of a G-20 meeting in India nearly two years ago. The 10-minute conversation didn’t ease tensions, and in fact they increased in the months that followed. In the fall of 2022, U.S. and Russian spymasters met in Turkey amid Washington’s concerns that Moscow could resort to nuclear weapons amid battlefield setbacks. Tuesday’s talks follow a telephone call between Trump and Putin in which the American president said they “agreed to have our respective teams start negotiations immediately.” The call upended
years of U.S. policy, ending the isolation of Moscow over its Feb. 24, 2022, invasion of Ukraine. After the call, Trump phoned Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to inform him about their conversation. Trump on Sunday told reporters that Zelenskyy “will be involved” but did not elaborate. The Ukrainian president said Monday his country had not been invited to the upcoming talks and won’t accept the outcome if Kyiv doesn’t take part.
The U.S.-Russia talks would “yield no results,” given the absence of any Ukrainian officials, Zelenskyy said on a conference call with journalists from the United Arab Emirates. Zelenskyy said he would travel to Turkey on Monday and to Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, but that his trip to the Arab nation was unrelated to the U.S.Russia talks.
EU officials have pushed for the bloc — which along with the U.S. has staunchly supported Kyiv — to have a say in any Ukraine peace talks, and Zelenskyy and his officials also insisted that Europe needs to be present at the negotiations.
Lavrov on Monday was dismissive when asked about a possible role for Europe, saying that “I don’t know what they have to do at the negotiations table.”
Asked about expectations from the talks in Riyadh, he said that Trump and Putin in their call “agreed to leave behind that absolutely abnormal period in relations between our great powers when they effectively halted any contacts except for some technical and humanitarian issues.”
“The presidents agreed that it’s necessary to resume a dialogue on all issues that can be solved with Russian and U.S. participation,” Lavrov said. “They mentioned the Ukrainian settlement along with the situation in the Middle East and some other regions of the world which aren’t quite calm at the moment.” Lavrov bluntly ruled out the possibility that Moscow would cede any of its territorial gains as part of a potential settlement, saying
that “there is not even a thought” about it. Putin has demanded that Ukraine withdraw its troops from the four regions that Russia illegally annexed in September 2022 but never fully captured and renounce its bid to join NATO as part of any prospective peace deal — demands Kyiv has rejected. Ushakov, Putin’s foreign affairs aide, said the Riyadh talks will focus on “the restoration of normal ties, the possible start of Ukraine talks and the prospects of contacts on the top level.” He said that Kirill Dmitriev, the head of the Russian Direct Investment Fund, could join the Russian delegation. Dmitriev reportedly helped broker last week’s release of American Marc Fogel, who was freed in exchange for Alexander Vinnik, a Russian cryptocurrency expert who faced Bitcoin fraud charges in the United States. Zelenskyy also confirmed that Trump’s special envoy for Russia and Ukraine, retired Gen. Keith Kellogg, would arrive in Kyiv on Feb. 20 for “broad conversations about security guarantees.” Zelenskyy said he wanted to bring Kellogg to the front line and hoped the American would take what he learned from his Ukraine trip back to the White House, adding: “I think after he goes back to the United States we will have an understanding on when I will have a meeting with President Trump.” Zelenskyy said the possibility of opening up his country’s mineral resources to the U.S., as Trump has suggested, would need to come with a written agreement on security guarantees for Ukraine. Ukraine and several European countries have insisted that without security guarantees, Russia could invade the country again, even if a settlement is reached. Those guarantees could include NATO membership, which Hegseth poured cold water on, weapons and economic support, Zelenskyy said. Ukraine has also expressed hopes of joining the EU, but that is complicated and could take years.
Barbados: Govt. looking mostly to domestic financing to make up shortfall
N a t i o n N e w sGovernment will have a $1 billion deficit in its budget
for the new fiscal year starting on April 1 and it will
b e r e l y i n g o n d o m e s t i c financing to make up the shortfall.
W i t h h i g h e r d e b t
r e p a y m e n t s p l u s i n t e r e s t predicted to account for $1 76 billion of expenditure in 20252026, the Ministry of Finance,
E c o n o m i c A f f a i r s a n d Investment expects to benefit from a primary surplus of $613 6 million This is detailed in the 2025-2026 Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure which was laid in Parliament on Tuesday It will be the focus of debate on the Appropriation Bill, 2025 when it starts in the
H o u s e o f A s s e m b l y o n
Monday Reacting to the fiscal projections, University of the
West Indies Professor of Finance Justin Robinson’s verdict was that Government’s budget was “a manageable risk” However, he said the numbers revealed “a delicate balance between economic growth and a persistent debt
b
responsibility”.
“ T h e G o v e r
’ s budget strategy prioritises fiscal balance and investment, but with large amounts of debt maturing, the debt stock will remain elevated,” Robinson added Debt to GDP ratio
“Unless there is further austerity in the form of aggressive revenue-enhancing reforms or expenditure cuts,
growing the economy and maintaining fiscal prudence so as to reduce the debt to GDP ratio in line with the Barbados
E c o n o m i c R e c o v e r y a n d
Transformation programme ”
The Ministry of Finance said that on the accrual basis, Government’s revenue for t h e n e x t f i s c a l y e a
i s projected at $3.98 billion, while on the cash basis it is projected at $3.88 billion, an increase of $110.3 million.
Total expenditure on the accrual basis will be $5.13 billion, and $5.08 billion on the cash bases. This means
deficit on the accrual basis is projected to be $1.15 billion on the accrual basis and nearly $1.2 billion on the cash basis. “Expenditure on
$ 7 9 9 m i l l i o n o v e r t h e revised figure for 2024-2025 to $645.5 million. Current transfers are projected to increase by $45.1 million or 4.3 per cent to $1.08 billion.”
In his examination of the Estimates on the cash basis –the method used by the A c c o u n t a n t G e n e r a l –Robinson said “a striking 44 per cent increase in non-tax revenue points to a greater reliance on levies, fees, and s e r v i c e c h a r g e s , r a i s i n g concerns about potential cost increases for businesses and individuals” “ W h i l e t h i s diversifies revenue streams, the sustainability of this a p p r o a c h r e m a i n s uncertain,” he observed.
He noted that $720.4 million (14.2 per cent of total spending) of the projected 10.1 per cent increase “is tied
to debt repayments rather than development”.
He also said “despite a successful debt swap reducing service costs, high interest payments (14 2 per cent of r e v e n u e s ) a
expenses (53 8 per cent of s
flexibility” His view was that “this leaves less room for social services, infrastructure, and economic stimulus measures”
Robinson said regarding the fiscal deficit and debt burden that while the fiscal deficit on the cash basis is $1 2 billion, l o w e r t h
2 0 2 4 - 2 0 2 5 ’s $1 45 billion shortfall, “when maturing debt of $1 07 billion is subtracted, the actual need
significantly lower” While
continued projection of a
primary surplus as a positive indicator, he pointed out that “the sheer volume of debt rollover keeps total debt stock elevated”
Government is planning to fund its fiscal deficit with foreign financing of $518.4 million and $678.5 million from domestic sources.
“ F
offers lower interest rates and longer repayment terms, h
m fiscal pressure However, this increases exposure to exchange rate fluctuations a
n g conditions,” Robinson said.
“D
competition for credit in l
interest rates and impacting private sector growth.”
Deba te on controversial Engineer’s Bill def er r ed...
From page 8 complete deletion and replacement o f t h e F I F T H S c h e d u l e i s proposed.”
I t w a s r e p o r t e d b y t h i s publication on February 16 that the P e o p l e ’ s N a t i o n a l C
n g r e s s Reform (PNCR) is calling for a thorough review of the weaknesses a n d t
o u b l i n g a s p e c t s o f t h e Engineers Bill by a Special Select C o m m i t t e e , e s t a b l i s h e d b y t h e National Assembly In a statement to the media on Saturday the party said that it fully supports the need for an Engineers Act as it will
regulate the profession, uphold p r o f e s s i o n a l s t a n d a r d s , e n s u r e public safety and contribute to national development.
However, the party said that the B i l l i n i t s c u r r e n t f o r m s p o r t s several weaknesses and pointed to several troubling aspects it believes should be immediately addressed.
Further, it said that meaningful input should be provided by key stakeholders which should include the University of Guyana’s Faculty of Engineering and Technology, the G u y a n a A s s o c i a t i o n o f Professional Engineers (GAPE) and all other interested persons in the field.
The party stressed that while it acknowledges that there were some discussions held with GAPE in the past years, they are dated, and the current Bill contains provisions that they doubt GAPE and other engineering professionals would endorse. “For instance, in the First Schedule, the Minister of Public Works is granted the authority to appoint the Chairman and Deputy C h a i r m a n o f t h e E n g i n e e r i n g R e g i s t r a t i o n B o a r d S u c h a provision raises serious concerns a b o u t p o t e n t i a l p o l i t i c a l interference in what should be an i n d e p e n d e n t r e g u l a t o r y b o d y.
Additionally, the Fifth Schedule restricts engineers from providing a complete, comprehensive set of b u i l d i n g p l a n s f o r h u m a n occupancy unless those plans are p r e p a r e d b y , o r u n d e r t h e s u p e r v i s i o n o f , a n a r c h i t e c t , ”
PNCR said.
Citing the Bill’s fundamental i m p o r t a n c e , t h e O p p o s i t i o n i s urging that in the interest of good g o v e r n a n c e , t r a n s p a r e n c y, a n d national development, the Bill be r e f e r r e d t o a S p e c i a l S e l e c t
Committee for clause-by-clause scrutiny by key stakeholders.
EXPLANATORY
MEMORANDUM
According to the explanatory memorandum, the main objective of the Engineers Bill 2024 is to provide for the registration and regulation of persons in the practice of engineering in Guyana and for such related matters.
The overarching goal of this living piece of legislation is to bring the legislative framework of the p r o f e s s i o n o f e n g i n e e r i n g i n a c c o r d a n c e w i t h t h e
C A R I F O R U M - E U E c o n o m i c P a r t n e r s h i p A g r e e m e n t ( E PA ) w h i c h w a s s i g n e d b y
C A R I F O R U M c o u n t r i e s ( i n c l u d i
European Union in October 2008 and has been provisionally applied since December 2008.
The Agreement covers trade in goods, trade in services, foreign direct investment, trade defence m
t i o n a n d intellectual property, competition, public procurement, co-operation and various developmental issues. With respect to liberalisation for t r a d e i n p r o f e s s i o n a l s e r v i c e s ( m a r k e
s ) ,
C A R I F O R U M - E U E c
n
h
m i c Partnership Agreement (EPA) also provides for mutual recognition of
qualifications and co-operation in professional services.
According to the explanatory memorandum, the Bill consists of six Parts, with each Part addressing key areas to establish a regulatory f r a m e w o r k t h a t p r o m o t e s p r o f e s s i o n a l i s m , a c c o u n t a b i l i
and excellence in the practice of engineering while safeguarding the
profession.
PART I of the Bill provides for Preliminary matters including the short title and the interpretation provision, which defines various w o r d s a n d e x p r e s s i o n s u s e d throughout the Bill. Terms related to the engineering practice in the c o n t e x t o f t h e s c o p e o f t h e legislation are therefore included to ensure clarity and consistency in its application.
PA R T I l p r o v i d e s f o r t h e establishment of the Engineering Registration Board, a corporate body, which shall be responsible f o r t h e m a n a g e m e n t a n d administration of matters related to the engineering profession.
The Board shall be supported by Committees, three of which shall be standing committees and others which may be established as necessary
The standing committees shall b e t h e Q u a l i f i c a t i o n a n d A s s e s s m e n t C o m m i t t e e , t h e C o m p l a i n t s a n d I n v e s t i g a t i o n Committee and the Disciplinary Committee.
This Part also seeks to provide for the appointment of a Registrar with specific functions. This Part is tantamount to the operations of the Board and creates the foundation u p o n w h i c h t h e B o a r d ’ s independence is reiterated, while simultaneously defining the ethical standards expected of Engineers, including obligations to uphold
p u b l i c s a f e t y a n d p r o f e s s i o n a l competence.
PART III seeks to provide for the eligibility and registration of e n g i n e e r s , i n c l u d i n g p r o v i s i o n s establishing criteria for this process
o f r e g i s t r a t i o n i n c l u d i n g
e d u c a t i o n a l q u a l i f i c a t i o n s ,
p r o f e s s i o n a l e x p e r i e n c e a n d
o u t l i n e d p r o c e d u r e s f o r application, renewal and removal from the Register
T h e m o s t s a l i e n t i n c l u s i o n involves provisions for different categories for registration within
t h e R e g i s t e r , b a s e d o n n e w entrants into the profession and continuity of qualification
This systematic structure in the R e g i s t e r i m p l i c i t l y e n s u r e s professional experience garnered o v e r y e a r s t o e n s u r e q u a l i t y assurance in executed works for new g r a d u a t e s , w h i l e c o n c u r r e n t l y
u p d a t i n g a n d r e c o r d i n g c u r r e n t practising professionals within the field Provision is further made for temporary and foreign engineers, such that the matter of international
r e c o g n i t i o n o f e n g i n e e r i n g qualifications obtained from other jurisdictions and mobility across borders through mutual recognition
a g r e e m e n t s o r e q u i v a l e n c y assessments, could be addressed
t h r o u g h s t a t u t e i n a s t r u c t u r e d manner to ensure equity by and a m o n g l o c a l a n d f o r e i g n professionals
PART IV seeks to provide for matters relating to complaints and t h e i n v e s t i g a t i o n o f c o m p l a i n t s with a view to determining whether disciplinary proceedings should be initiated by the Board.
The powers of the Board are reiterated under this Part with a view to promulgating and course
c o r r e c t i n g m a t t e r s t h a t h a v e engaged the attention of the public.
T h r o u g h t h e e s t a b l i s h m e n t o f
concerns, there is the inherent builtin mechanisms to ensure public s a
dispute resolution and disciplinary processes. It must be noted that the engineer is also equipped through statute to appeal decisions, thereby g
reputation and standards of quality that have been executed.
applicable for administrative relief
PART V seeks to ensure that various contraventions of the Act shall constitute criminal offences,
misconduct
disciplinary measures.
of
PART VI seeks to provide for
required Certificates, as authentic proof of registration in Guyana.
and making of subsidiary legislation.
T
Schedules, each of which serve as detailed supplements to the salient features of the Bill, including the
Registration Board, Code of Ethics, Proceedings before the Complaints and Investigations Committee and Disciplinary Committee, Countries
specialised areas of engineering, and
precedent of the certificate of
engineer
European leaders gather for an emergency meeting meeting over fear Trump has isolated age-old allies
PARIS (AP) — French
P r e s i d e n t E m m a n u e l
Macron called leaders from key European Union nations and the United Kingdom to his ornate Elysee Palace on Monday for an emergency meeting on how to react to the U.S. diplomatic blitz on Ukraine, which left the once
r o c k - s o l i d p a r t n e r a s a potential political liability
L a s t w e e k , t o p U S officials from the Trump administration made their first visit to Europe, leaving t h e i m p r e s s i o n t h a t Washington was ready to embrace the Kremlin while it cold-shouldered many of its age-old European allies.
D e s p i t e b e l l i g e r e n t warnings for months ahead
o f D o n a l d T r u m p ’ s reelection as U.S. president, EU leaders publicly ignored the ominous forebodings, hoping somehow that Trump would stand shoulder to shoulder with Europe while the continent would finally start to beef up its defenses and become less reliant on American firepower
But a flurry of speeches by Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete H e g s e t h l a s t w e e k questioned both Europe’s security commitments and its fundamental democratic principles. Macron said their stinging rebukes and threats of non-cooperation in the face of military danger felt like a shock to the system.
The tipping point came when Trump decided to
upend years of U.S. policy
Russian President Vladimir Putin in hopes of ending the Russia-Ukraine war Then, Trump’s special envoy for U k r a i n e a n d R u s s i a
Saturday all but ruled out the inclusion of other Europeans in any Ukraine peace talks.
M
G
A
Baerbock called the week “an existential moment. It’s a moment where Europe has to stand up.”
That’s where Macron h o p e s t o s t e p i n w i t h Monday’s meeting.
Leaders of Germany, the U n i t e d K i n g d o m , I t a l y, P o l a n d , S p a i n , t h e Netherlands, Denmark and the European Union are to have talks on how to deal w i t h E u r o p e ’s s e c u r i t y quandary. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte will also attend.
Ever since World War II, t h e U n i t e d S t a t e s a n d Western European nations have basically walked in lockstep as they confronted the Soviet Union during the Cold War, right up to the i n c r e a s i n g l y a g g r e s s i v e a c t i o n s o f c u r r e n t - d a y Russia close to its borders. Even if there had long been U.S. complaints about the r e l u c t a n c e o f m a n y European NATO nations to step up their defense efforts, they never boiled up to the political surface as they have over the past days.
French officials said no
f i r m a n n o u n c
expected to emerge beyond a
E u r o p e a n
e r s M o r e talks are expected at the broader EU level, they said.
U k r a i n e ’ s P r e s i d e n t Volodimir Zelenskyy said “negotiations are moving fast with Europe, ” in a v i r t u a l n e w s c
e n c e Monday in Kyiv “Everyone told me that what happened (at the Munich Security C o n f e r e n c e ) a c c e l e r a t e d everything.” Zelenskyy said French President Emmanuel
M a c r o n h a d a g r e e d t o provide him with a briefing on the conclusions from the meeting in Paris.
A s t r o n g U S l i n k , though, will remain essential for the foreseeable future since it will take many years before European nations can
r a t c h e t u p d e f e n s e equipment production and
integrate it into an effective force.
That U S bond also applies to dealing with war in Ukraine, said U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer. “U.S. support will remain critical a n d a U . S . s e c u r i t y guarantee is essential for a lasting peace, because only the U.S. can deter Putin from attacking again,” Starmer wrote in Monday’s Daily Telegraph.
While many EU nations are still mulling whether to c o n t r i b u t e t r o o p s t o a potential force in Ukraine after a peace deal, Starmer said that the U.K. was “ready and willing to contribute to s e c u r i t y g u a r a n t e e s t o Ukraine by putting our own troops on the ground if necessary
“I do not say that lightly I f e e l v e r y d e e p l y t h e
responsibility that comes
w i t h p o t e n t i a l l y p u t t i n g
B r i t i s h s e r v i c e m e n a n d women in harm’s way,” he wrote.
Macron last year refused to rule out sending Western t r o o p s i n t o U k r a i n e i f necessary.
European nations are bent on boosting Ukraine where they can, and EU nations see eye to eye when it comes to upping defense spending. However, even if there is a general consensus to move beyond the goal of s p e n d i n g 2 % o f g r o s s
d o m e s t i c p r o d u c t o n defense, it is hardly clear how to get to 3%.
Some EU nations insist on an agreement on joint b o r r o w i n g f o r m a s s i v e
d e f e n s e p r o j e c t s , w h i l e others say the nations that l a g b e h i n d o n s p e n d i n g should first reach 2%. That issue is also set to be
discussed at the meeting.
Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk said he plans to urge other leaders to invest more in defense, ahead of his d e p a r t u r e f o r t h e P a r i s m e e t i n g P o l a n d s p e n d s more than 4% of its GDP on defense, more than any other NATO member
“If we want to decide about the future of Ukraine together with Ukraine, the United States, Russia, we must also show that we are c a p a b l e o f m
m o r e serious investment in our
i d However, he also said that he does not envision Poland sending its own troops to Ukraine.
But some of the EU nations balked at the thought of the
estrictive E
ysee meeting with only a few chosen leaders while others were left in the cold. For an uncomfortable number of decisions, the EU needs the backing of all 27 nations. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, a staunch ally o
n t Vladimir Putin, has already threatened to use his veto on a number of occasions.
S l o v e n i a n P r e s i d e n t Nataša Pirc Musar said the selective list of invitees was proof that the EU member states are not treated equally “This is not Europe that commands respect abroad. This is not the Europe that would be a serious partner to the North American ally,” she said.
China angr y as US amends wording on Taiwan independence
BBC - The US state d e p a r t m e n t d r o p p e d t h e phrase “we do not support Taiwan independence” from a fact sheet on Taiwan-US ties
T h e U S S t a t e Department has dropped a statement from its website
w h i c h s t a t e d t h a t
W a s h i n g t o n d o e s n o t s u p p o r t T a i w a n ’ s independence - a move which has sparked anger in China.
China said the revision “sends a wrong... signal to
separatist forces advocating for Taiwan independence”, and asked the US to “correct its mistakes”. The department’s fact
s h e e t o n T a i w a n - U S relations earlier included the phrase “we do not support Taiwan independence” - this was removed last week as part of what it said was a “routine” update. A US spokesperson was quoted as saying that it remains committed to the “One China” policy, it said, where US recognises and
has formal ties with China rather than Taiwan.
C h i n a s e e s s e l fg o v e r n e d Ta i w a n a s a breakaway province that will eventually be part of the country, and has not ruled out the use of force to achieve this.
But many Taiwanese consider themselves to be part of a separate nation, although most are in favour of maintaining the status quo where Taiwan neither declares independence from China nor unites with it.
As well as dropping the phrase, the factsheet, which was updated last Thursday, a l s o s a y s t h e U S w i l l s u p p o r t T a i w a n ’ s membership in international o r g a n i s a t i o n s “ w h e r e applicable”.
C o m m e n t i n g o n t h e changes, a spokesperson at the American Institute in Taiwan - the US’ de facto embassy on the island - told local media that the fact sheet had been “updated to inform the general public about [the US’] unofficial
relationship with Taiwan”.
“We have long stated t h a t w e o p p o s e a n y unilateral changes to the s t a t u s q u o f r o m e i t h e r side ” On Sunday, Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chialung thanked the US for what he called “positive, T a i w a n - f r i e n d l y wordings”
B u t i n t h e i r r e g u l a r p r e s s c o n f e r e n c e o n
Monday, Beijing’s foreign
m i n i s t r y s l a m m e d t h e move, calling the revision a
“serious regression” in the US’ stance on Taiwan “This sends a wrong and serious signal to separatist f o r c e s a d v o c a t i n g f o r Taiwan independence and is another example of the U.S. stubbornly persisting with its wrong policy of using Taiwan to contain China,” said Chinese spokesperson Guo Jiakun.
“We urge the US to i m m e d i a t e l y c o r r e c t i t s mistakes [and] earnestly adhere to the One China principle.”
United States Vice-President JD Vance and United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio meet with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Munich, Germany, Friday, Feb.14, 2025. (AP Photo)
Alleged robbers on $1.9 million bail each
Four men on Monday were granted bail in the sum of $1,920,000 each, when t
D
M
answer to five counts of Robbery Under Arms (RUA) charges.
The accused, 24-year-old Andra Stewart, 25-year-old N
Matthew Jahlu and 28-year-
old Negus Lamaizon, all
Magistrate Dylon Bess.
The men were charged with five counts of RUA,
Wednesday last, at Republic Park, East Bank Demerara (EBD), they robbed Chinese nationals Liu Bo, Chaung Yang, Wei Han, Qiao Peng
Deng, and Gary Mitchell.
defendants were arrested on the day of the robbery
They pleaded not guilty to the offence and were
placed on bail, with the conditions that they report to the Criminal Investigation D e p a
e n t ( C I D ) headquarters, every Friday (Except for Fridays when they are required to attend court). The defendants are also required to lodge their passports with authorities. They are scheduled to return to court on April 10, 2025.
Andra Stewart
Nya John
Matthew Jahlu
Negus Lamaizon
National Table Tennis duo Shemar Britton, Chelsea Edghill to represent Guyana at prestigious Panam Table Tennis Cup
NChelsea Edghill OLY and G
tennis player Shemar Britton are set to represent Guyana at the Prestigious 2025 Pan American Table Tennis Cup, the ITTF Continental Cup for the Americas.
Powered by J.P Morgan, the competition gets into
action on Tuesday 18th Feb 2025 at the 888 Table Tennis
, a suburb of San Francisco USA and runs until the 23rd.
T h e e v e n
w
l h a v e $20,000 in prize money, the p l a y e r s w
l e a r n I T T F ranking points, and those that reach the semifinals (in Men’s Singles and Women’s Singles) will be awarded entry into the ITTF Singles
World Cup. The electrifying tournament is one of the most prestigious events in table tennis, uniting the top players from North, Central,
S
A m
h e Caribbean to compete for glory, critical world ranking points, and a coveted spot in the 2025 ITTF World Cup in Macau, China. T h e t o u r n a m e n
feature an elite lineup of
Olympians Kanak Jha, Lily Z
Amy Wan
,
, Brazilian Olympians Bruna T
Olympians Alberto Mino,
C
Edward Ly, as well as other top 30-ranked global stars. B
be competing against the likes of XU Isabella-USA, CHEN Hildy-USA, DONG Natalie-USA, YEOH Irene-USA, R E Y E S L A I J e s s i c aUSA, CUX Jenny –Guatemala, C O R D E R O L u c i a –Guatemala, ZENG Zhiying- Chile
Tuesday February 18, 2025
ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19)
Overall, the forecast for today is fairly good. The aspects seem to favor figuring out the
n opportunity for you to take a leisurely
TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20)
Have you felt somewhat lost for the past few days? The fog may lift today and enable you to situate yourself at last. You're probably eager to settle a question that has nagged at you and interfered with your judgment.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20)
You may have been feeling
s o m e w h a t d i s i l l u s i o n e d . Perhaps you lost sight of your goals or misplaced your faith in yourself. You'll feel some relief beginning today
CANCER (June 21–July 22)
You might be tempted to settle certain matters by radical means. The visionary part of you means you're painfully aware of the world's wrongs. You see no reason not to take action to correct them.
LEO (July 23–Aug. 22)
Today will be fairly calm in terms of outside events, but your inner world is likely to be in a rush of activity Today you wish you could find the solution to your heartaches as w e l l a s y o u r c a r e e r predicaments.
VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22)
You have a lot of thinking to do about your professional goals, Virgo. You'll go over the elements to see if there isn't some way to approach things differently
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22)
You just can't do everything at once, Libra. How do you expect to reduce your stress and recuperate while at the same time continue to be a superstar performer in every area of your life.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov 21)
This is a good moment to adapt your logic and
reality, Scorpio. If you don't, you're going to run into some
Everyone knows that you find new ideas plentiful.
SAGIT (Nov 22–Dec. 21)
It's going to be a little difficult
y , Sagittarius. You, who can be easily influenced by others,
people say
CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19)
Have you been reviewing your f a m i l y h i s t o r y l a t e l y ,
Capricorn? Of special interest is your cultural background. What educational, social, and religious environment were you born into? What are its values? In the end.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) It's time to elevate your sense of self, Aquarius. You're just as good as anyone else, so why don't you believe it? The problem is that you're very sensitive about having an ego.
n o w everyone does.
PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Today
w o r l d r a n k i n g p o i n t s t o s e t t h e m u p f o r l a t e r
s u c c e s s a s t h e y
c o m m e n c e b u i l d i n g t o w a r d s a n e w O l y m p i c
q u a d r e n n i a l
B r i t t o n w o r l d w h o h a s
h e l d a w o r l d r a n k i n g o f
2 4 5 i s c u r r e n t l y r a n k e d
4 7 9 , i s a m u l t i - t i m e s
C a r i b b e a n m e d a l i s t a t t h e j u n i o r a n d s e n i o r l e v e l a n d w h o h a s b e e n
r e c e n t l y s h o w i n g h i s
p e d i g r e e i n d e f e a t i n g t o p t i e r e d p l a y e r s a t t h e
p a n a m l e v e l w i l l b e
d r a w n w i t h p l a y e r s
I G N E A U L T L a u r e n t
C A N , TSAO Darryl USA,
B E R N A R D J a m e s o n HAI, BOTHA Bosman USA,
K A L I C H A R A N Winston CAN, LI Jonathan CAN, WANG Zexuan CAN, EBANKS Jayden JAM, JOHNSON Azizi JAM,
L E W I S R o h a n J A M , MCPHERSON Emani JAM,
M I T C H E L L O d i n g o JAM, PHILLIPS Mark JAM, WATSON Kane JAM,
G A L L A R D O D i e g o MEX, JIA Jaden USA,
S H O D H A N S h a s h i n USA,
Z H A N G X i a n g j i n g USA, IIZUKA Leonardo BRA, TEODORO Guilherme BRA,
A G U I R R E M a r c e l o PAR, NARESH Sid USA, GOMEZ Gustavo CHI, LIANG Jishan USA,
C A R R I L L O S e r g i o GUA,
MORALES Ian GUA BRITTON.
While Edghill who has held a world ranking of 265 and currently ranked 444, has done her preparation work training with the Cuba national team in Havana will
round where she will gearing to assess where she currently is after receiving a clean bill
training and performance in 2023- 2024. Edghill arrived in San Franciso on the 15 Feb 2025, while Britton arrived on the 16th Feb 2025.
Aubrey Hutson open to fourth term as AAG President
By Rawle Toney
After over a decade at the h e l m o f t h e A t h l e t i c s
A s s o c i a t i o n o f G u y a n a (AAG), Aubrey Hutson has signalled his willingness to serve yet another term, if nominated.
Hutson, who first took
office in 2013, has led Guyana’s track and field
g o v e r n i n g b o d y t h r o u g h both notable successes and t u r b u l e n t m o m e n t s , including a controversial suspension that raised more questions than answers.
Now, with the AAG’s
l e a d e r s h i p t e r m h a v i n g constitutionally ended on January 31, the association finds itself in a transitional
p h a s e , w i t h G e n e r a l
S e c r e t a r y J a m e s C o l e serving as the caretaker until t h e i r A n n u a l G e n e r a l M e e t i n g ( A G M ) a n d elections on March 16.
Speaking with Kaieteur
N e w s y e s t e r d a y, H u t s o n made it clear that while he h a s n o t b e e n a c t i v e l y campaigning for re-election, he is open to serving if n o m i n a t e d b y a f f i l i a t e d clubs.
“ I f I ’ m a s k e d o r nominated by any club, I will accept,” Hutson stated. Last September, in an exclusive interview with Kaieteur News, he asserted t h a t h i s p r e s i d e n c y w a s
n e v e r a b o u t p e r s o n a l ambition but rather about his p a s s i o n f o r t h e s p o r t , “because from the time I got the first suspension letter, they would’ve been hearing from my lawyer But I’ve always taken the position that I want to serve. I have a lot of knowledge of the sport, hence I would serve.”
O n e o f t h e m o s t
c o n t e n t i o u s m o m e n t s o f
Hutson’s tenure came in the wake of the 2023 CARIFTA
G a m e s , w h e r e administrative missteps and alleged governance failures
l e d t o g r o w i n g
dissatisfaction within the athletics community
In response, the AAG’s G e n e r a l C o u n c i l v o t e d u n a n i m o u s l y t o s u s p e n d
Huston, appointing then-
First Vice President Amanda
H e r m o n s t i n e a s A c t i n g President.
H u t s o n h a s l o n g contested the legitimacy of his suspension, stating, “the suspension was never legal. That has always been my p o s i t i o n b u t f o r t h e
Ackera Nugent Continues Stellar Form with 7.79 Victory in Poland
SportsMax - Three days after storming to a worldleading 7.75 seconds over the 60m hurdles in France,
J a m a i c a n s p r i n t h u r d l e r Ackera Nugent maintained her fine form by winning the e v e n t i n 7 7 9 a t t h e Copernicus Cup in Poland on Sunday Nugent, who has been dominant on the European i n d o o r c i r c u i t , h e l d o ff S w i t z e r l a n d ’ s D i t a j i Kambundji, who clocked a personal best 7.80, while Dutch hurdler Nadine Visser finished third in 7.82 (SB). The men’s 60m hurdles
e v e n t w a s e x p e c t e d t o f e a t u r e 2 0 1 6 O l y m p i c champion Omar McLeod, but the Jamaican failed to s h o w , l e a v i n g f a n s disappointed after his season opener in Berlin last week, w h e r e h e c l o c k e d 7 6 5 seconds for second place.
Italy’s Zaynab Dosso delivered a season-best 7.05
t o c l a i m v i c t o r y i n t h e women’s 60m, edging out Swiss sprint star Mujinga Kambundji, who clocked
smooth-running of track and field, a sport that I love dearly, I decided to step back.”
T h e i n t e r n a l
d elib er atio n s s u r r o u n d in g
H u t s o n ’ s r e m o v a l a n d eventual reinstatement have r e m a i n e d s h r o u d e d i n ambiguity, as AAG officials have declined to disclose key d e t a i l s o f t h e d e c i s i o nmaking process.
H e r m o n s t i n e , w h o stepped into the leadership role in Hutson’s absence, has also indicated her openness t o c o n t e s t i n g f o r t h e presidency on a permanent basis.
She had also received commendation from Hutson himself, who acknowledged her efforts during a recent interview, where he noted, “I have to take my hat off to Amanda.
I think she tried her best; we all have our limitations, but you can’t say she didn’t try her best.”
With nomination forms set to be distributed to affiliated clubs this week, according to the AAG’s
General Secretary, the race for AAG leadership is now officially underway Sources told Kaieteur
News that several influential
individuals have signalled their intentions to contest the position of AAG president and other key executive committee positions.
Bunny Shaw Fires Manchester Cit y Women to Dominant 4-0 Victor y Over Liverpool
SportsMax - Jamaican
s t r i k e r K h a d i j a “ B u n n y ” Shaw showed her class with a b r i l l i a n t b r a c e a s Manchester City Women cruised to a 4-0 victory over Liverpool Women at the City F o o t b a l l A c a d e m y o n Sunday. The win keeps City within touching distance of the top three in the Women’s Super League (WSL) and marks an emphatic response to their recent performances.
Jamaican striker Khadija “Bunny” Shaw
golden chance to pull one back earlier in the game, but
Jamaican sprint hurdlerAckera Nugent, Mattia Furlani
7.07 (SB). Poland’s Ewa Swoboda, a home favorite, took third in 7.10. The men’s long jump saw Italy’s teenage sensation Mattia Furlani continue his meteoric rise, leaping to a massive 8.37m, which set a personal best, meet record, and world lead. The 19-year-old, who h a d a l r e a d y s h o w n h i s potential wit
e competition, looks to be establishing himself as one of the biggest talents in world athletics.
Behind him, Olympic c h a m p i o n M i l t i a d i s Tentoglou of Greece settled for second with 8.03m, the s a m e m a r k achieved by Sweden’s Thobias Montler, who finished third.
J a m a i c a ’ s S h a w n - D
T h o m p s o n h a d a
c h a l l e n g i n g o u t i n g , managing a best effort of 7 6 9 m , w h i c h l e f t h i m outside the top contenders.
Despite the struggles, his mark was a personal
b e s t , i n d i c a t i n g s o m e p r o g r e s s a s t h e s e a s o n continues
C i t y d o m i n a t e d possession from the opening whistle, but Liverpool held firm until the 30th minute, w h e n S h a w b r o k e t h e d e a d l o c k i n s p e c t a c u l a r f a s h i o n T h e J a m a i c a n forward received a clever reverse pass from Mary Fowler, turned sharply to evade her marker, and fired a low shot past Rachael Laws into the far corner, silencing
L i v e r p o o l ’s a p p e a l s f o r offside Just before halftime, Shaw struck again This time, Fowler turned provider
once more, delivering a precise cutback from the left
w i n g S h a w d i s p l a y e d exquisite control to bring the ball down before turning and rifling her shot past Laws, doubling City’s lead in the 43rd minute. Liverpool had a
C i t y g o a l k e e p e r E l l i e
R o e b u c k d e n i e d L e a n n e Kiernan after the forward opted to round the keeper
r a t h e r t h a n s h o o t Yu i Hasegawa then cleared the rebound off the line, keeping City’s clean sheet intact.
C i t y c o n t i n u e d t h e i r dominance in the second half and extended their lead in the 60th minute when Jill Roord
c a p i t a l i z e d o n a p o o r clearance After her initial shot was blocked, she made no mistake on the rebound, powering the ball home off the post to make it 3-0. The final goal of the evening came from 18-yearold Ruby Prior, making her first WSL start In the 77th minute, the young defender surged down the right flank and sent in what appeared to be
an attempted cross However, the ball curled past everyone and nestled into the back of t h e n e t , s e c u r i n g a memorable goal on her full debut.
D e s p i t e t h e l o p s i d e d scoreline, Liverpool had their chances, particularly through Sofie Lundgaard and Mia Enderby, but City’s defence stood firm In the dying minutes, Kerolin struck the post, and Fuka Nagano forced a smart save from Roebuck, but it wasn’t Liverpool’s night. With the game well in control, City manager Gareth Taylor made several changes, bringing on Kerolin, Laura Blindkilde Brown, and Jess Park, highlighting the depth of the squad Liverpool, on the
match City’s firepower, and
proved costly
AAG General Secretary, James Cole
Amanda Hermonstine, former AAG First Vice President
Former AAG president, Aubrey Hutson
Pooran, Pollard retained by MI New York ahead of 2025 Major League Cricket draft; Russell, Narine kept by L A Knight Riders
Nicholas Pooran, Kieron
Pollard, Andre Russell and Sunil Narine have all been retained by their respective
M a j o r L e a g u e C r i c k e t (MLC) franchises ahead of the draft for the 2025 season. Pooran and Pollard have both been retained by MI New York while Russell and Narine will once again suit up for the LA Knight Riders.
MI New York and the K n i g h t R i d e r s f i n i s h e d f o u r t h a n d f i f t h , respectively, in last year ’s standings before MI New York were beaten handily by the Texas Super Kings in the eliminator.
Pooran will be looking to bounce back from a lean run
of form by his extremely high standards in last year ’s edition. He scored 180 runs i n s e v e n i n n i n g s a t a n average of 30 and a strike rate of 125 with just one fifty H e w i l l h o p e t o rediscover his form from the inaugural edition where he managed 388 runs in eight games at an average of 64.66 and a strike rate of 167.24 including a hundred and two fifties.
That season also saw MI New York defeat the Seattle Orcas to be crowned the first MLC champions.
Pollard also had a tough time of it in 2024, making just 63 runs in seven innings at an average of 12.60 but his experience will be key in his side’s quest to win their
second title.
Russell’s 2024 season was also underwhelming, making 129 runs and picking up just two wickets in his six c o n t e s t s b u t e v e r y o n e around the world knows his capabilities as a genuine match-winner in the format.
Narine had a torrid time with the bat last season, scoring 80 runs in 11 innings at an average of 4.50. He was better with the ball, taking five wickets at an economy of 6.20 in six innings.
Akeal Hosein, who took two wickets in three games for defending champions, the Washington Freedom, has been released meaning he will be available to any team in the draft set for February 19.
Mohammad Nabi wants to play for Afghanistan with his son; may not quit ODIs yet
Mohammad Nabi may not retire from ODIs after the u p c o m
C
T r o p h y a s p r e v i o u s l y planned and harbours hopes o f p l a y i n g i n
n a t i o n a l cricket along with his son Hassan Eisakhil.
In November last year Nabi, 40, said he would quit ODIs at the end of the Champions Trophy but is now “still thinking” about his future.
“These might not be my last ODIs, I will probably play less ODIs and give chances to the youngsters to build experience,” Nabi told the ICC. “I’ve discussed with the senior players and in the high-level games, maybe or maybe not, we’ll see. It will depend on my fitness.”
Nabi’s 18-year old son, Eisakhil, is a batter who represented Afghanistan at the Under-19 World Cup in 2024 and his father hopes they will play together for the country soon. “It’s my dream. Hopefully we can do it. He is doing very well he is a hard worker and I’m also pushing him to do work.
“I want him to make his own goals, if you want to get to be a high-level cricketer, you have to work hard. It’s not enough to make 50 or 60, you have to score 100-plus.
He’s listening and pushing all the time. When he can talk to me, I try to give him a d v i c e t o g i v e h i m confidence for the game.”
Afghanistan are in Group B in the Champions Trophy
a l o n g w i t h E n g l a n d , Australia and South Africa.
It is their first appearance in t h e t o u r n a m e n t a f t e r finishing among the topeight teams (sixth place) at the 2023 ODI World Cup. They were semi-finalists at the 2024 T20 World Cup too.
“The preparations for the C h a m p i o n s Tr o p h y h a v e been good,” Nabi said. “I’ve been busy playing in the Bangladesh Premier League, was a champion over there. I did three sessions with the national team in Abu Dhabi so I’m in good shape.
“Winning the BPL gave me more confidence, from a tough position in the final. In
Paul Nixon Appointed Head Coach of Antigua and Barbuda Falcons for 2025 CPL Season
SportsMax - he Antigua and Barbuda Falcons have announced the appointment of Paul Nixon as their new head coach for the 2025 Republic Bank Caribbean
P r e m i e r L e a g u e ( C P L ) season. Nixon, a former E n g l a n d w i c k
the whole tournament, we did real
y w
and my performances were good as w e l l , b o w l i n
a n d a l s o batting, I helped finish the job in four or five matches.”
Afghanistan had to make one change to their 15-man squad for the tournament, replacing the injured AM
G
spinner Nangeyalia Kharote
“He’s a youngster, who has been doing really well over the last two years,” Nabi said
“He’s a very good spinner but he’s a good fielder as well He bowled really well against South Africa and Ireland in Sharjah ” Afghanistan begin their
travelling to Lahore to play England and Australia on February 26 and 28.
, brings a wealth of coaching experience to the franchise, having previously led the Jamaica Tallawahs in the CPL.
The 54-year-old coach replaces West Indies legend
who served as head coach d
inaugural season last year
Franchise owner Kris
expressed their excitement about Nixon’s appointment
C h a n d e r p a u l ’ s contributions to the team’s development.
“We want to welcome
Paul to the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons as we
p r e p a r e f o r t h e 2 0 2 5
R e p u b l i c B a n k C P L , ” Persaud and Miller said in a joint statement. “He is an o u t s t a n d i n g h e a d c o a c h with an excellent track record. We believe he will
have a major impact and will bring his energy and enthusiasm to the Falcons f a m i l y a s w e l o o k t o i m p r o v e o n l a s t y e a r ’s performance. We also want to sincerely thank Shiv, an outstanding legend of West Indies cricket, for the work he did with the franchise.”
Nixon, known for his passionate approach and strategic acumen, expressed his excitement about taking on the role and guiding the Falcons in what promises to b e a n o t h e r h i g h l y competitive CPL season.
“It is a great honour to accept the invitation to serve as Head Coach for A n t i g u a a n d B a r b u d a Falcons this year,” Nixon said. “I extend my sincere gratitude to Jeff and Kris for their belief in my abilities.”
H a v i n g p r e v i o u s l y tasted CPL success with the Jamaica Tallawahs, Nixon
u n d e r s t a n d s t h e u n i q u e atmosphere and challenges of the competition and is eager to help the Falcons build on their debut season.
“The Caribbean Premier L e a g u e i s a w o n d e r f u l c o m p e t i t i o n t h a t h a s significantly benefited West Indian cricket,” he added.
“ T h e C P L ’ s v i b r a n t a t m o s p h e r e , s t a r- s t u d d e d lineups, and high-quality e n t e r t a i n m e n t h a v e captivated audiences and s p a r k e d a r e n e w e d enthusiasm for the sport. Having achieved success with Jamaica previously, I e
l y a n t i c i p a t e a successful 2025 campaign, supported by great players and a first-class support staff.”
With Nixon now at the helm, the Falcons will be aiming to make a strong statement in the upcoming C P L s e a s o n H i s experience, leadership, and p r o v e n t r a c k r e c o r d i n franchise cricket could be the key to unlocking greater success for the Antigua and Barbuda-based outfit.
As the CPL player draft approaches, the focus will now shift to squad-building and preparation, with Nixon expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s strategy and recruitment.
With his appointment, the Falcons have signaled their ambition, and fans will be eager to see how the team p e r f o r m s u n d e r h i s guidance when the CPL 2025 season gets underway.
Nicholas Pooran, Kieron Pollard, Andre Russell and Sunil Narine have all been retained by their respective Major League Cricket franchises.
Mohammad Nabi is happy with his preparations leading into the Champions Trophy. (ACB Media)
Neymar ‘rediscovering joy’ back at boyhood-club Santos
BBC Sport - Neymar says Santos are helping him to “rediscover joy” after returning to his boyhood c l u b o n a s h o r t - t e r m contract.
1
The 33-year-old ended a
g from the penalty spot in Santos’ 3-1 win against Agua Santa on Sunday “I’m happy to be playing again. I feel I’m improving,”
s a i d N e y m a r , w h o completed a return to Santos after Saudi Pro League side
Al-Hilal agreed to terminate h i s c o n t r a c t b y m u t u a l consent following an injury-
hit spell with the club. He added: “Obviously I’m not going to be 100% physically, it’s only my fourth game but I’m getting better and better “I was anxious to score and wanted to dedicate this to the fans and my family.”
Al-Hilal paid £77.6m to sign Neymar from Paris StGermain in August 2023 but a knee injury restricted him to just seven appearances. Neymar made his senior debut for Santos aged 17 in 2009, scoring 136 goals and laying on 64 assists in 225 matches during his initial spell with the club.
T h e B r a z i l f o r w a r d
further established himself as one of the world’s best f o o t b a l l e r s a f t e r
n g Barcelona for £48.6m in 2013. He won eight trophies during his time at the Nou C a m p , i n c l u d i n g t h e Champions League and two La Liga titles before joining P a r i s S t - G e r m a i n f o r a world-record fee of £200m in 2017.
He picked up a further 13 trophies in Paris but fell out of favour with manager Luis Enrique and sought a new challenge in Saudi Arabia.
Shortly after the switch, Neymar overtook Pele to be
leading male goalscorer with 78 goals, but has not played for his country since his initial knee injury in October 2023. Neymar said he had b e e n “ w i s h i n g f o r t h i s moment to come true for a long time” when announcing
Mashr amani Basketball tour nament ongoing in Berbice
Basketball teams from across Berbice are currently participating in the ongoing
M a s h r a m a n i B a s k e t b a l l tournament in the ancient County
Some six teams from both East and West Berbice
a r e c o m p e t i n g i n t h e
c o m p e t i t i o n w h i c h
c o m m e n c e d o n t h e 8 February 2025 at the New
A m s t e r d a m b a s k e t b a l l court.
The teams participating
a r e N e w A m s t e r d a m W a r r i o r s A , N e w
his return to Santos on deal which runs until 30 June.
“We’re helping each other, S a n t o s a r e h e l p i n g m e , they’ve opened doors for me t o r e d i
c o v e r s o c c e r, t o rediscover joy,” he said. “I didn’t want to sign a long
says Santos are helping him to “rediscover joy”.
contract because I didn’t know how I was going to come back. I didn’t know how I was going to feel during these months. Let’s enjoy these moments, it’s the start of a great era for Santos.”
Athaleyha Hinckson Joins LSU
BY RAWLE TONEY
G u y a n a ’ s s p r i
H
n a monumental step in her athletics career, securing a f u l l s c h o l a r s h i p t o Louisiana State University (LSU).
Announced yesterday
LSU, which is also
A m s t e r d a m Wa r r i o r s B , Outsider, Hopetown, Ithaca and Upper Corentyne Kings. Results of some matches played so far see Outsiders defeating NA Warriors B 5039. They led 17-14, 27-17, 3 8 - 2 5 i n t h e d i f f e r e n t segments before closing out the game. Charles Williams top scoring for the winners with 18 points.
quarter
I n a n o t h e r g a m e , Hopetown squeezed past Upper Corentyne Kings 4642 in a keenly contested game. Hope town took the lead 11-7 but fell back 13-14 at the end of the first half. The game was then locked 20-20 at the end of the third
H o p e t o w n t h e n outhustled Upper Corentyne i n t h e f i n a l q u a r t e r b y scoring 26 points to 22 to s e a l t h e w i n G a r f i e l d Benjamin led the scoring for the winners with 16 points. In another contest Ithaca gained a walk over against Ou
sides after
h
atter forfeited the game. Ithaca was leading 16-9 at the time of the stoppage.
I n o n e o f t h e m o s t competitive games of the competition so far, New A m s t e r d a m Wa r r i o r s A f o u g h t b a c k t o d e f e
baskets early the led 18-15 after the first quarter They extended the lead at half time to lead 28-22.
NA Warriors A begin to show fight in the second half and by the end of the third quarter they were leading 42-38. The Warriors were in a destructive mood in the final segment pouring in 25 points to Hopetown 14 for an easy win in the end.
Malcolm Mickle led the way with 16 points. The competition is continuing. (Samuel Whyte)
b y L S U ’s h e a d c o a c h , Dennis Shaver, Hinckson’s move places her in one of the top NCAA Division
One athletics programmes, m a r k
achievement for both the 17-year-old sprinter and Guyana’s emerging track and field talent.
Hinckson, coached by J u l i a n E d m o n d s , h a s already established herself as one of the brightest y o u n g s p r i n t e r s i n t h e region.
Brianna Lyston, the 2022 W
m champion.
In 2024, competing on home soil, Hinckson, as a 16-year-old, ran a personalbest 11.39 seconds in the 100m, ranking her seventh in the world among U18 athletes. That performance also
American U18 area record. Her scholarship follows a similar announcement for Tianna Springer, Guyana’s CARIFTA Games (U17 & U
recently committed to the University of Georgia.
S h e i s t h e r e i g n i n g CARIFTA Games U17 and South American U20 100m champion and recently set a new South American U18 indoor 60m record with a blistering 7.39 seconds. Her move to Baton Rouge sees her join fellow Guyanese 400m standout, and Running Brave Club m a t e , M a l a c h i A
Neymar
Malcolm Mickle Jr.
Charles Williams
Guyana U17s close out unbeaten group stage campaign in historic Concacaf qualifiers run
Guyana’s Under-
1 7 M e n ’ s N a t i o n a l Te a m wrapped up its Concacaf U17 Qualifiers campaign on
Wednesday night with a
h a r d - f o u g h t 1 - 1 d r a w , closing the group stage with an unbeaten record of three
d r a w s a n d o n e v i c t o r y
P l a c e d i n a c h a l l e n g i n g group featuring top-ranked teams like Costa Rica (#6 FIFA U-17) and Trinidad & Tobago (#13 FIFA U-17),
G u y a n a r a n k e d #21—proved its strength by r e m a i n i n g u n d e f e a t e d
opponents.
b y a G u y a n e s e U - 1 7 t e a m
n t h e i n t e r n a t i o n a l s t a g e F r o m t h e o p e n i n g m a t c h t o t h e f i n a l w h i s t l e , t h e t e a m d i s p l a y e d
r e s i l i e n c e , t a c t i c a l d i s c i p l i n e , a n d a
c o m p e t i t i v e e d g e t h a t u n d e r s c o r e d their growing presence in regional football.
T h e t e a m ’s s u c c e s s i s s t r o n g l y l i n k e d t o t h e
G u y a n a F o o t b a l l
F e d e r a t i o n ’ s ( G F F ) p a r t n e r s h i p w i t h S p a n i s h
c l u b R a c i n g M a d r i d , w h i c h b r o u g h t i n a n e w
h e a d c o a c h M a r c o
B o n o f i g l i o a n d t e c h n i c a l
s t a f f t o s t r e n g t h e n
p r e p a r a t i o n s f o r t h i s
c r i t i c a l t o u r n a m e n t
C o m m e n t i n g o n t h e
team’s performance, Coach
b e h i n d t h e s c e n e s t h r o u g h o u t t h i s h i s t o r i c c a m p a i g n , ” t h e F e d e r a t i o n P
b o y s a n d w h a t t h e y ’ v e a c c o m p l i s h e d G o i n g undefeated in a tournament
o f t h i s m a g n i t u d e a n d making history for Guyana is
no small feat ”
H e a d d e d , “ T h e y
s h o w e d h e a r t , r e s i l i e n c e , a n d b e l i e f i n e a c h o t h e r
e v e r y s t e p o f t h e w a y
W h i l e w e f e l l j u s t s h o r t o f a d v a n c i n g , t h i s j o u r n e y
h a s s e t a n e w s t a n d a r d f o r
G u y a n e s e f o o t b a l l T h i s i s o n l y t h e b e g i n n i n g ”
W h i l e G u y a n a d i d n o t
a d v a n c e t o t h e n e x t p h a s e , t h e s q u a d ’s p e r f o r m a n c e
s t a n d s a s a t e s t a m e n t t o t h e
n a t i o n ’ s f o o t b a l l i n g g r o w t h “ C o n g r a t u l a t i o n s t o
o u r J u n i o r J a g u a r s ! A
h e a r t f e l t t r i b u t e t o o u r o u t s t a n d i n g c o a c h i n g
s t a ff , l e d b y C o a c h M a r c o , a n d t h e d e d i c a t e d p a r e n t s w h o w o r k e d t i r e l e s s l y
B o n o f i g l i o n o t e d , “ I ’ m incredibly proud of these
This campaign has not only set a new benchmark for the U-17 programme but also r
Jaguars’ ability to compete with some of the best in the region.
develop the nation’s football
progress on the international stage.
Marco Bonofiglio
Guyana had a good run at the Concacaf U17 tournament.
Guyana had a good run at the Concacaf U17 tournament.
National Table Tennis duo Shemar Britton, Chelsea Edghill to represent Guyana at prestigious Panam Table Tennis Cup T
FLASHBACK! Athaleyha Hinckson powers crossed the finish line to win the Girls U17 100m finals at the CARIFTA Games ahead of Jamaica’s Adora Campbell. (News Room photo)
Athaleyha Hinckson Joins LSU
Antigua and Barbuda Falcons have announced the appointment of Paul Nixon as their new head coach.
Paul Nixon Appointed Head Coach of Antigua and Barbuda Falcons for 2025 CPL Season
Paul Nixon
Shemar Britton and Chelsea Edghill