‘If you bribe a cop, you’re par t of the problem’ -Pres.Alitellspoliceconference
...says culture where wrong doing is normalised and justice elusive must be abandoned
Am i d r e p o r t s o f r a m p a n t
c o r r u p t i o n
within the Guya n a P o l i c e
Force with allegations that
senior officers are in the
p o c k e t s o f b u g
b u s i n e s s m e n , P r e s i d e n t
Irfaan Ali told a conference
o n We d n e s d a y t h a t i f a p e r s o n e n g a g e s i n t h e bribing of an officer, they too are part of the problem.
H e w a s a t t h e t i m e speaking on the integrity of the Force and its function to
u p h o l d t h e l a w A r e c e n t
r e p o r t b y T r a n s p a r e n c y International stated that the state of Guyana had been
captured by the economic a n d p o l i t i c a l e l i t e s h e r e , fostering misappropriation
o f r e s o u r c e s , i l l i c i t e n r i c h m e n t a n d environmental crimes The body also stated that Guyana has lost ground in the fight
against corruption moving from 40 points last year to 39 this year, ranking it 92 out of 1 8 0 c o u n t r i e s o n t h e
C o r r u p t i o n P e r c e p t i o n I n d e x “ I n G u y a n a , s t a t e c a p t u r e b y e c o n o m i c a n d p o l i t i c a l e l i t e s f o s t e r s m i s a p p r o p r i a t i o n o f resources, illicit enrichment
a n d a n e n v i r o n m e n t a l
c r i m e , ” t h e Tr a n s p a r e n c y International report said. It
a d d e d : “ A l t h o u g h t h e
c o u n t r y h a s c r e a t e d a n t icorruption institutions and laws, transparency and law enforcement are very low, and attacks on dissenting v o i c e s , a c t i v i s t s a n d j o u r n a l i s t s i n c r e a s i n g l y common,” the body stated in its report.
Back in March 2024, the U n i t e d N a t i o n s H u m a n R i g h t s C o m m i t t e e (UNHRC) had released its f i n d i n g s o n G u y a n a , expressing concerns over the n a t i o n ’ s i n s t i t u t i o n a l f r a m e w o r k t o c o m b a t c o r r u p t i o n T h e r e p o r t a c k n o w l e d g e d G u y a n a ’s a d o p t i o n o f l a w s a n d r e g u l a t i o n s t o t a c k l e c o r r u p t i o n , i n c l u d i n g t h e establishment of a Special
President Irfaan Ali
Cit y Mayor to write Qatari investors about dispute over Carifesta Avenue lands
Georgetown Council to write to the Qatari Investors informing them of the dispute over the land that was promised to them for a seafront hotel development by the Irfaan Ali Government.
Tu
Georgetown councillors. “The decision was taken that I would write the Qataris on behalf of the Council informing them of the ongoing
d
Thomas property The objective is to let them know where the Council stands on the issue and that we are standing our ground as it relates to the ownership of the property,” Mentore said.
Last year, the dispute over the prime property located at Carifesta Avenue and Thomas Lands, Georgetown erupted after it was announced that the Government of
Guyana had allocated it to Qatari investors to construct a US$300M seafront hotel. Mayor Mentore has since written to President Irfaan
A l i a b o u t t h e d i s p u t e o v e r o w n e r s h i p Mentore had given the president seven days t o r e s p o n d f a i l i n g w h i c h h e s a i d t h e
G e o r g e t o w n M a y o r a n d C i t y C o u n c i l (M&CC) would have determined whether moving to the court is the best way to resolve the matter
explained.
The Mayor and City Council has made it clear that the property was gifted to the City of Georgetown for recreational purposes by former plantation owners in 1887. The said l a n d w a s b e i n g u s e d b y t h e N a t i o n a l Insurance Scheme (NIS). During a previous s t a t u t o r y m e e t
transport that purports to show Council’s ownership of the prime waterfront property to the over 30 councillors present at the meeting. He noted that the Council was kept in the dark as it relates to the plan to develop a hotel even though it holds a transport to the property. “I have spoken to my lawyers and have been a
courtesy of time to respond in writing or invite me to have a discussion in person. Based on what the response is, I will decide whether the matter goes before Council,” Mentore had vowed several months ago.
H o w e v e r , i t h i g h l i g h t s lingering concerns regarding t h e e f f e c t i v e n e s s o f t h e institutional setup to prevent a n d p r o s e c u t e c o r r u p t i o n , particularly within the police force and among high-level public officials.
S p e c i f i c c o n c e r n s outlined in the report include
i n s t a n c e s w h e r e t h e
C o m m i s s i o n e r o f
Information failed to address p u b l i c r e q u e s t s a n d t h e delayed enforcement of the
Protected Disclosures and Witness Protection Act.
Meanwhile, in his to the police officers’ conference
President Ali said that in
b u i l d i n g o u t t h e P o l i c e Force, there must be shared a c c o u n t a b i l i t y a n d partnership He explained:
“ s h a r e d a c c o u n t a b i l i t y i s where every single citizen must understand that they have a role in building a s t r o n g P o l i c e F o r c e , i n
b u i l d i n g a p r o f e s s i o n a l
Police Force, in building a responsible Police Force, in building a Police Force with high integrity, every single citizen, every single citizen must play a role. If you try to bribe an officer, you are part of the problem. If you try to bribe a traffic officer, you are part of the problem.”
In this regard, he said it
should be understood that
O r g a n i z e d C r i m e U n i t ( S O C U ) w i t h i n t h e Guyana Police Force (GPF).
educating the public about their responsibility in crime fighting and their decency as a l a w - a b i d i n g c i t i z e n i s important.
The Guyanese leader told the police officers that if they a r e r e s p o n d i n g t o 5 0 0 complaints related to noise nuisance, the ranks of the Force will not be able to respond to serious crimes, t h u s r e n d e r i n g t h e m ineffective.
However, there are laws governing the country that citizens must respect, adhere t o , a n d h o n o u r. “ S h a r e d accountability is about our i n d i v i d u a l a n d c o l l e c t i v e responsibility in building a s t r o n g e r s o c i e t y, a s a f e r society, a better society, and all of us must understand that w e h a v e a s
d responsibility in this regard,” President underscored.
He said to actualise this shared responsibility, it must
h e environment that fosters the culture of impunity, where
and justice appears elusive is disbanded because that is what rocks the foundational pillars of justice
y and freedom.” He said it is
internationally and it must be addressed.
However so far, the ongoing dispute between the Georgetown council and central g o v e r n m e n t o v e r t h e o w n e r s h i p o f t h e property has not yielded adequate response and no court case has been filed. In an invited comment with this newspaper following the meeting on Tuesday, the Mayor said that he believes writing to the Qataris is the next best thing, since he believes they would want to be in the know about such matters. “I have received the unanimous support from the council with regard to writing the Qatari as I believe it is imperative that they know the issue at hand and that there is a possibility that t h e p r o j e c t h a n g s i n t h e b a l a n c e , ” h e
The Qatari Investors are expected to pay G$2B for the prime lands, the Guyana Office for Investment (GOINVEST) had disclosed l a s t y e a r G O I N V E S T h a d s i g n e d a memorandum of Understanding with Assets Group, a subsidiary of Power International Holding (PIH) with an expected completion date of March 1st, 2026.
The Hotel will house 260 rooms and suites, 150 serviced apartments which will include branded residences and premium villas.
Mayor of Georgetown, Alfred Mentore
Kaieteur News
Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.
Publisher: GLENN LALL-TEL: 624-6456
Editor: NIGEL WILLIAMS
Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
Ending violence a gainst women
On Sunday news broke about the gunning down of 27year-old Kenesha Vaughn allegedly by her husband at their Diamond, East Bank Demerara home.
Vaughn died while receiving treatment at the Diamond Hospital, this newspaper reported. Her husband, Marlan DaSilva, 32 was arraigned at the Diamond Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday Investigators had said that at the time of his arrest, DaSilva’s alcohol level in his body was 83%. The report stated that initial investigations revealed that DaSilva was drinking at a popular drinking establishment on Main Street, Georgetown, prior to the shooting. His wife, according to police had called him to come home and it reportedly annoyed DaSilva. He arrived home around 20:00hrs. and met Vaughn in the kitchen. They got into a heated argument and it reportedly escalated into violence when DaSilva slapped Vaughn. Allegations are that the woman then ran for a knife and returned. As she allegedly approached him, DaSilva pulled out his gun and began shooting her. She fell to the ground wounded and he called police immediately after.
The killing of Vaughn is one in a series of murders of our women in this country over the years. Just last week, the government reported that there were 1,863 cases of domestic and gender-based violence last year The Ministry of Human Services in outlining its plans to tackle the scourge has outlined several strategies to address these social issues, including strengthening policies aimed at removing discrimination and violence against women, providing shelter and financial assistance to vulnerable groups, implementing gender equality and mainstreaming initiatives, and expanding rehabilitation programmes for youth in conflict with the law
When we think of Vaughn’s killing and that of countless other women at the hands of men, the question is asked why are men so violent (to women)? What triggers that violent behaviour? The patriarchal culture? The macho image that predominates?
Modern theories seek psychological explanations Men who have experienced rejection and feelings of inadequacy in childhood suffer in adult life from the same inadequacy and impaired ‘ego-function’, and have antisocial and pre-morbid personalities They may also have witnessed, or suffered, violence as children Some researchers think that “the love/hurt/rage reactions that helpless boys feel towards their abusive, powerful parent/s were replayed by these men in their marriages Such men experience mood swings, pain and anger, they may be seriously depressed Poverty and monetary frustration trigger violence in many men ”
While all of that may be true, women have also undergone all sorts of dysfunctional pressures when they were children – including the violence in all shapes and forms from the hands of men that we are discussing – but their infliction of violence against men is but a minuscule fraction of what they suffer Ultimately, the issue is one of power: men have it, and use that power to oppress women, who are generally bereft of it. The effort, therefore, by the Ministry of Human Services to attack the problem of violence against women by focusing on strengthening policies and providing shelter for the victims, while commendable and necessary, does not go to the root of the problem. It is a case of dealing with the symptoms and ignoring the cancer that continues to metastasise in every relationship between men and women at all levels of society
In our society, notwithstanding all the protestations to the contrary, women are not considered as equal to men. The situation starts with the very birth of the girl child: she is extolled as a “delicate flower” that must be protected. Protected by the men, that is. Such a relationship is by nature unequal, since the protector inherently is assumed to have the power to protect the “flower”, which the former, just as inherently, is assumed to lack. And since we know
The opposition is accountable to the people too
DEAR EDITOR
I l i k e O p p o s i t i o n M e m b e r o f P a r l i a m e n t , Nima Flu Bess. She is not lazy and has been visible in the forefront of the fight for the rights of her constituents. Nima strikes me as a good natured, intelligent and in sync with the grassroots people in Guyana. She is an e d u c a t o r a
woman. Has Nima fallen down? I am informed that she is the Shadow Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport. I am of the impression that in a n
n o t understand the gravity of the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport deliberate decision not to officially extend an invitation to them to be part of Guyana’s 55th republic celebrations, in this case, the Flag Raising Ceremony
The PPP made a strategic move in an election year to
create the impression that the Opposition is insignificant, unworthy and of no national i m p o r t a n c e . T h e g o v e r n m e n t f o l l o w e d u p with an empty apology after the Opposition would have f e e b l y c o m p l a i n e d A complaint and an apology and that seems to be the end of the matter
The Opposition is riding on a confident wave that the PPP government by its terrible actions and record will cause its governance to end come elections day It does not feel that it has to exert itself vigorously and apply severe
p o l i t i c a l p r e s s u r e o n
g o v e r n m e n t t o w i n t h e confidence of the Guyanese people In so doing, it is not only taking the people for g r a n t e d , i t i s a l s o shortchanging them
In life, it is fundamental that we work to earn whether it is money or the vote of the
people. The PPP’s decision to not invite the Opposition
s e n d s a s t r o n g c o d e d message that the Republic belongs to them and not us.
I c a n n o t u n d e r s t a t e t h e magnitude of such disrespect
a n d c o n t e m p
Guyana.
It is therefore incumbent on the Opposition to demand the resignation of the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport and ensure it will not be business
Ramson is removed from government. In all of our h
Independence and to become a Republic. A government should not be allowed to create the impression that there are two Guyanas while p u s h i n g a O n e G u y a n a agenda as a smokescreen.
The PPP government must,
in no uncertain terms, be made to understand that the Minister of Culture, Youth a n d S p o r t m u s t e x i t government and Nima Flu Bess must demand of her Opposition that it is nonnegotiable in this situation.
T h e G o v e r n m e n t i s accountable to all the people in that country and no elected official must be seen as infallible or unaccountable to the people. Ramson must go and the Opposition must ensure that happens. If Nima wants to achieve this and for any reason is unable to mount the challenge, she must tell the nation why
T h e O p p o s i t i o n i s accountable to the people too If Ramson does not go, Nima should relinquish her current Shadow portfolio.
Sincerely
Norman Browne
S o c
Activist
A simple solution to address Guyana’s Voter List issues
Dear Editor
For decades, Guyana has
g around the accuracy and integrity of the voters’ list.
A l l e g a t i o n s o f b l o a t e d registries, duplicate entries, and outdated records have fueled political tensions and eroded public trust in our electoral process. However, what if a straightforward, p r a c t i c a l s o l u t i o n w a s already within our reach?
The government’s $100,000 cash grant initiative requires every eligible Guyanese at home and abroad to register using verified identification (passport or national ID) and provide proof of citizenship. This process has already gathered the key elements necessary for an accurate and transparent voter database:
• Name
• Date of Birth
• Residential Address
• Proof of Citizenship
Some may question the feasibility and fairness of this proposal, particularly the $100,000 cash grant i n i t i a t i v e H o w e v e r, i t ’s
important to note that this i n i t i a t i v e h a s a l r e a d y demonstrated effectiveness in reaching and registering a l a r g e p o r t i o n o f t h e p o p u l a t i o n I f t h i s d a t a collection is good enough to distribute national wealth, why isn’t it good enough to m o d e r n i z e o u r v o t e r registration system? A Fairer Electoral Process for All By converting the cash grant registration database into the official voters’ list, Guyana could:
1. Eliminate Fraud & Duplicate Entries – Since registration requires proof of citizenship, the risk of ghost v o t e r s , n o n - c i t i z e n registrations, or duplication w o u l d b e s i g n i f i c a n t l y reduced.
2 Ensure Up-to-Date
Address Information – This would streamline polling s t a t i o n a s s i g n m e n t s a n d reduce disputes over voter migration. 3. Simplify Voter Registration – Every eligible Guyanese adult who applied for the grant would already b e r e g i s t e r e d t o v o t e , m i n i m i z i n g b u r e a u c r a t i c hurdles.
that all power corrupts, we ought not to be surprised that the male consistently abuses the power conferred simply by his biology: biology becomes destiny
4 E n h a n c e P u b l i c Confidence in Elections – A voter list derived from a r e c e n t , v e r i f i e d n a t i o n a l registration process would increase transparency and r e d u c e p o s t - e l e c t i o n conflicts Addressing the Key Concerns Of course, a n y r e f o r m t o v o t e r r e g i s t r a t i o n m u s t b e
c a r e f u l l y i m p l e m e n t e d
Some may argue that not all citizens applied for the grant, meaning they’d be left out of the voter registry
This can be addressed by allowing a supplementary registration period, where those who missed the grant application can still register w i t h s i m i l a r v e r i f i c a t i o n requirements.
Another challenge is the s t a t u s o f o v e r s e a s - b a s e d Guyanese.
The grant requires them to be physically present in Guyana to collect funds, but s h o u l d t h e y a l s o b e automatically added to the voters’ list? If so, this could r e i g n i t e d e b a t e s a b o u t diaspora voting rights. This
p o l i c y d e c i s i o n r e q u i r e s n a t i o n a l d i s c u s s i o n b u t doesn’t undermine the core idea: using a recent, verified d a t a b a s e t o i m p r o v e electoral transparency
The Time to Act is Now With Guyana’s economic t r a n s f o r m a t i o n u n d e r w a y, we should also modernize the systems that shape our democracy
Instead of relying on outdated voter registration p r o c e s s e s t h a t i n v i t e controversy, why not use the e x i s t i n g g o v e r n m e n tverified data to create a
e n t , a n d trusted voter registry?
This is not a political proposal—it’s a commonsense solution to a decadesold problem. The question is: Do we have the political will to fix it? With the potential to eliminate fraud, ensure upto-date information, simplify the registration process, and enhance public confidence in our elections, the benefits of this solution are clear The time to act is now
Sincerely Dr. Lawrence
Benjamin
If Guyana ever hopes to get a handle on the overwhelming one-way violence directed by males against females (who may be even socialised to accept that violence), it will have to deal with the basic inequalities that define the male and female roles in the society These have to be engendered at two levels: at the level of values that insidiously undermine the worth of females, and in the political-legal realm. In the first level, the role of the religious bodies is critical: more than any other institution, they construct gilded cages for females. In the political-legal realm, more job opportunities for equal wages with men is a good place to start. When, for instance, Guyanese families migrate to the North, where the struggle for gender equality has progressed much farther than here, women very quickly become empowered to take control over their lives and end abusive relationships. The simple fact that women in the developed societies have greater access to jobs that can support them gives them the courage to resist violence from spouses and other family members. We hope for more progress in defeating this scourge of violence against women.
r
Ad hoc and disorganised infrastructural projects implementation and cash grant distribution
DEAR EDITOR,
The recent comments
made by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo is one in which it is imperative to address the concerns raised
b y h i m r e g a r d i n g t h e
affecting our citizens. The Vice President’s admission t h
“disorganised” is a rare but
c o n s t r u c t i o n a n d infrastructural boom in the country and simultaneously h
candid acknowledgment of the lack of proper planning a
execution of these much
projects.
I do acknowledge that the government’s efforts to award contracts to locals f
Debunking Divisive Narratives and Superficial Unity in Guyanese Discourse
DEAR EDITOR,
The recent articles from t h
African Guyanese on Mash Day 2025” authored by Mr Freddie Kissoon, published on February 23, 2025, and “B
Guyana’s Path to True Social Cohesion,” a letter written by Mr Kit Nascimento and p u b l i s h e d F e b r u a r y 2 2 , 2025, represent two sides of the same problematic coin:
h n i c essentialism, while the other peddles hollow optimism. Both approaches undermine Guyana’s complex journey toward justice and unity
The former article’s title alone signals a dangerous premise. By framing Mash
D
“exposing betrayers,” the
rhetoric rooted in ethnic purity tests. Such narrative
e x p l
s Using Mash Day, a symbol of national pride, to stoke intra-community suspicion is cynical. It distracts from meaningful dialogue about equity and representation.
I n s t e a d o f p o l i c i n g loyalty, we must critique systemic issues—economic disparities, unequal resource
a l l o c a t i o n
communities apart. Progress
scapegoating.
T h e l a t t e r a r t i c l e advocates for unity but risks o v e r l o o k i n g i m p o
t realities Social cohesion cannot be achieved through platitudes alone; superficial analyses, such as vague calls to transcend ethnicity, are insufficient. For example, the marginalization of AfroGuyanese in sectors like m i n i n g a n d t h e underrepresentation of IndoGuyanese in security forces highlight systemic divides t h a t r e q u i r e s t r u c t u
Guyana’s colonial legacy and the ethnic politicization, exemplified by the violence
of the 1960s, cannot simply be ignored in favour of a s u p e
acknowledging past harms a n d p u r s
justice. Unfortunately, Mr N
Achieving social cohesion d e m a n d
e f o r m , equitable job access, and inclusive governance—not just rhetoric.
It is crucial to convey to M e s s r s K
N
y cannot be imposed; it must be actively fostered through fair policies that ensure an e q u i t a b
developmental benefits and provide equal employment
opportunities, among other vital measures. Only through genuine efforts in these areas
unity
Finally, Guyana’s future
unity Let us pursue justice instead of judgment and
complacency Both articles
Guyana’s complexities. The
divisions, while the second obscures them. We need an honest dialogue to address
inequities, pursue structural
national cultural identity
Sincerely Lelon Saul Lt Col (Ret’d)
supervision, inefficiencies, p o o r m a n
g e m e n t , a n d execution are causing undue hardship for our residents. I am sure this is the realities in o t h e r c o m m u n i t i e s nationwide.
Due to poor planning, s e v e r a l o f t h e m a i n thoroughfares like the East
B a n k a n d c o m m u n i t i e s around Guyana as the town of Linden, particularly in Amelia’s Ward, for example, w h e r e t h e s i m u l t a n e o u s
c o n s t r u c t i o n o f m u l t i p l e interconnected roads has c r e a t e d s i g n i f i c a n t disruptions. Residents are l e f t w i t h o u t a l t e r n a t i v e routes, severely impacting their ability to commute to work, their place of business, or to return home. This lack o f f o r e s i g h t i n p r o j e c t scheduling and execution reflects a failure to prioritise the needs of the people. The
government must adopt a
e n s u r i n g t h a t r o a d
construction is phased in a w a y t h a t m i n i m i s e s
d i s r u p t i o n a n d p r o v i d e s
a l t e r n a t i v e r o u t e s f o r residents.
Further, in Linden, the a l l e g e d g o v e r n m e n t ’ s proposal to rely on a single supplier for concrete, and who is unable to meet the d e m a n d s o f m u l t i p l e
contractors, is a glaring example of poor resource
m a n a g e m e n t T h i s
b o t t l e n e c k h a s f u r t h e r delayed the completion of s e v e r a l r o a d p r o j e c t s , e x a c e r b a t i n g t h e i n c o n v e n i e n c e f a c e d b y residents. The government m u s t e n s u r e a f a i r a n d
e f f i c i e n t d i s t r i b u t i o n o f resources, engaging multiple s u p p l i e r s t o m e e t t h e d e m a n d s o f l o c a l
c o n t r a c t o r s T h i s w o u l d expedite project completion
o f c o n s t r u c
i o n projects. This can also be extended to the very poor a n d d i s o r g a n i s e d p r o g
citizens. The process has been and continues to be
organisation, and confusion over the eligibility of some persons on and off the lists.
citizens, in particular, have
waiting in lines for
conditions only to be told that their names are not on the list or that they must go to another location. This is (Continued on page 06)
a n d f o s t e r a m o r e competitive and equitable e n v i r o n m e n t f o r l o c a l businesses. A d d i t i o n a l l y , t h e noteworthy observation and, quite frankly, the admission of the Vice President is t a n t a m o u n t t o t h e t o t a l a g r e e m e n t o f t h e v i e w s expressed by members of the opposition about the ad hoc n a t u
Father of 14 in court for assaulting ‘sweet woman’
- wife war ned a gainst cyberbull ying victim
A5 0 - y e a r - o l d
m i n e r w a s p l a c e d o n
$10,000 bail on Wednesday after he appeared at the
G
M
Court to answer to a charge of assaulting his lover and his wife has been warned against cyberbullying the victim.
Leroy Gordon of 45 Russel Street, Charlestown, Georgetown was charged for
a
e g e d l y a s s
u
n g h i s child mother, Noelle King on February 23, 2025 at We
pleaded not guilty after the charge was read to him by A
Faith McGusty
grounds that Gordon will cause harm to King and her 1
remanded to prison. King told the court that Gordon is
14 children and she just wants him to stay away from her and her two children. She a d d e d
G
d o n h a d allegedly hit her 12-year-old
child’s nose. She requested that the court order him to compensate her and take care of the hospital bills. She s
Gordon would make TikTok videos about her and she also shared that Gordon has an
, a television and a phone which belong to her
Gordon pleaded with the court to release him on bail, assuring that he will stay away from King as long as possible as well as return all
Chief valuation officer charged for making false declaration
The Chief Valuation Officer for the Ministry of Finance Julian Barringtion was charged on Wednesday for making a false declaration. The charged was brought against him by the Guyana Revenue and Authority (GRA). Barringtion appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court where he was charged for assisting another person to make a false statement. The 54-year-old man of 1817 Providence, East Bank Demerara pleaded not guilty after the charge was read to him by Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty
H e w a s c h a r g e d u n d e r S e c t i o n 111(1)(b)(i) of the Income Tax Act, Chapter 81:01, for allegedly assisting in the creation of a fraudulent property valuation. The charge states that on or around February 19, 2 0 2 4 , a t L o t 2 3 7 C a m p S t r e e t , Cummingsburg, Georgetown, Barrington helped produce a falsified Certificate of Value for a property located at Lot 129, Area “L” Lusignan, East Coast Demerara. The certificate states that property had been developed, excavated of topsoil, sand-filled, and levelled, when in fact, it had not.
Magistrate McGusty first placed him on $40,000 bail. However, his attorney showed up late and made a plea on his behalf. The attorney made the application that his client
Defendant: Julian Barringtion at court on Wednesday posting bail
be placed on self-bail since he is such an important individual to the government. According to the attorney, Barrington is not a flight risk and we are not interfering with the charges brought by GRA, we will deal with that at the appropriate time,” the attorney told the court. Magistrate McGusty agreed with t h e a
Barringtion self-bail after the prosecution had no objections. The court was adjourned for March 26, 2025.
the items which belong to her once he is granted bail. “I buy the stuff for her but the same day, I get lock up so I couldn’t give her anything.” h
McGusty after hearing the facts of the case first spoke with Mrs. Gordon about the cyberbullying law and its c
n s e q u e n c e s S h e t h e n proceeded with her ruling where she placed Gordon on $10,000 bail for the assault charge as well as placing him on a one-month peace b o n d T h e m a t t e r w a s adjourned to March 5, 2025.
Enough is enough
DEAR EDITOR,
S o o u r p u r p o r t e d O n e - G u y a n a Government did not invite the Opposition members and the Leader of the Opposition to this important national event of Flag Raising. Our Government has made a public apology If as they claimed is an oversight, it means some Officer or office is responsible.
But so far, Dear Editor and Citizens, we are yet to hear if some disciplinary action will be taken against the Officer responsible. This is a government with mighty resources, computers, etc. which with the touch of a button will reveal the protocol list. I repeat, if this act of crassness did not come from the top brass when would disciplinary action be taken against those responsible?
Enough is enough.
Yours sincerely, Neil Bacchus
Ad hoc and disorganised...
From page 05
implemented, leveraging the
groupings of people, using technology to streamline the
beneficiaries receive their grants in a timely, orderly, a
f i e d m a n n e r Equally important is that individuals in the regions
respectful, and polite. We have seen some political
actors claiming to want to help in the chaos they helped create, being disrespectful in a loud, crude, and animated way
While most will likely accept the Vice President’s acknowledgment of these issues as a step in the right direction, it is not enough. The government must take concrete and deliberate steps to address these systemic failures.
I t i s o u r c o l l e c t i v e responsibility and duty as responsible citizens to hold the government accountable for these shortcomings and to advocate for the interests
of the people.
Vice President Jadgeo’s comments, while reflective of the reality on the ground, must be met with swift a c t i o n t o c o r r e c t t h e s e unnecessary mishaps, not just words. The opposition will continue to push for g r e a t e r t r a n s p a r e n c y , a c c o u n t a b i l i t y , a n d efficiency in government operations We will also propose alternative solutions t o a d d r e s s t h e s e i s s u e s , ensuring that the voices of the people are heard and their needs are met.
In conclusion, I posit that w h i l e t h e g o v e r n m e n t ’s e f f o r t s t o i m p r
infrastructure and provide financial support to citizens are laudable, the execution has been deeply flawed. The ad hoc and disorganized approach to these initiatives i
hardship for the very people they are intended to benefit. It is time for the government to adopt a more strategic,
governance. I, like most,
collaboratively to achieve this goal, but we will not
inefficiencies and demand better for the people of this nation we are elected to serve.
Yours respectfully, H o n . J e
n e Figueira, MP
Leroy Gordon being escorted by police ranks at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court
BLUNT BLUNT
Politicians and renegotiation
While the gover nment and opposition spar with the word renegotiation that could change the entire dynamics of their relationship with ExxonMobil, this paper has not blinked nor muzzled itself .
T he Coalition APNU+AFC was listless and voiceless on the contract that it executed, and today it sidesteps where it really stands with renegotiation.
T he mere mention of the word (renegotiation) has caused it to shift from f oot to f oot, while promising what it would do if elected to r un the countr y. Like the way that the opposition is today, so is the PPP/C Gover nment.
Both President Ali and Vice President Jagdeo don’t want to hear the word renegotiation uttered in their presence. T he president resembles a deer in the headlights, when renegotiation comes up, and the vice president swings from limb to limb, as though he is doing his best imitation of some f orest creature at home in the trees.
ExxonMobil collects most of the oil cash and boasts of Guyana being the biggest jewel in its crown. On the other hand, Guyana’s main political par ties and their leading spokespeople lose control of their bowels when renegotiation is called f or, needed by the citizens of this countr y.
Bor r owing should be the last r esor t not the default r esponse
T h e b u s i n e s s o f borrowing, when defended with the conviction of divine law, is among the more absurd dogmas of modern times. The present PPP/C government, basking in the
s h a m e t h a t t h e f a s t e s t growing economy in the world has to borrow to finance close to 40% of its Budget, wants us to believe that borrowing is a must. Their words not mine.
I n d e f e n c e o f t h i s absurdity, we are told, time and again, that borrowing is an inevitability, that it is an i n t e g r a l f u n c t i o n o f g o v e r n a n c e , a f i s c a l mechanism so natural as to be almost natural – all of us
h a v e b o r r o w e d a n d borrowing allows us to grow wealth. To resist this premise
i
b l a s p h e m y o f e c o n o m i c illiteracy, to be dismissed as a h o p e l e s s r e a c t i o n a r y incapable of understanding the nuances of economics.
Ye t , t h e a s s e r t i o n t h a t borrowing is a necessity rather than a consequence of mismanagement collapses under the weight of the facts. A nation borrows not because borrowing is an existential prerequisite, but
because its government has failed to derive sufficient revenue from its existing assets. A person who earns enough to cover his expenses does not take on debt unless his financial management is inept. Likewise, a country need not sink itself in the m
lending institutions unless it h
Consider, then, the absurdity of borrowing in a land where oil revenues ought to flood the treasury with a bounty sufficient to finance any conceivable infrastructural ambition. If the state is
itself to be fleeced by an unfavourable oil agreement, the problem is not revenue insufficiency but rather
financial prudence. When a
billions in potential earnings by refusing to renegotiate an oil deal or to ring-fence its oil blocks, it does not suffer from an absence of wealth but from a dereliction of duty
In this context, debt is not a function of necessity but of
maladministration. It is not a requisite tool of economic a d v a n c e m e n t b u t
indictment of policy failure. Why should a nation whose natural resources are among the most lucrative in the world be forced to take on
payments? Why should a country pay a premium for capital when it need not contract those loans in the first place?
with the sterile language of the technocrat: that debt-toGDP ratios remain low, that
percentage of revenue is sustainable, that borrowing
nation’s future. These are c
deployed to rationalise a behaviour that, stripped of euphemism, is nothing more than an exercise in fiscal recklessness.
A low debt-to-GDP ratio is not an invitation to borrow
m
should serve as an incentive
generation before resorting t
DEM BOYS SEH
Trump playing chess while everybody playing Ludo
Dem boys always hear how Trump is a man who does talk before he think. But dem boys seh don’t be fooled. That man playing chess while everybody else playing Ludo. You see, Trump know how to squeeze people without lifting a finger He don’t send aid, he don’t beg, he don’t plead—he threaten. And guess what? It working! Look Panama. Trump just glare at dem, and next thing you know, dem agreeing to take third-party prisoners. Who tell dem play stubborn? Trump soften dem up nice and slow till dem say, “Yes, boss, we’ll take dem prisoners.” He also get them to push back on de Chinese and de Panama Canal and Mexico? Lawd! Trump tell dem if dem don’t stop all dem illegal people from coming over, he slapping tariffs on everything tortilla,
tacos. Mexico scramble like a man hear tax increase coming. Next thing, dem boys sending 10,000 troops to guard Trump border for free. That is what Trump National Guard should be doing, but no, Mexico doing it instead. Trump play dem like a steel pan at Carnival.
Now, Trump eyeing Ukraine like a man watching gold chain in a Georgetown minibus. He telling Ukraine, “Look, I might help you, but wha you got fuh me?”
U k r a i n e g o t r i c h m i n e r a l s l i t h i u m ,
burden today is no assurance
o b l i g a t i o n s t o m o r r o w , particularly when economic f o r e c a s t s d e p e n d o n a volatile commodity such as oil.
T h e n o t i o n t h a t
b o r r o w i n g i s j u s t i f i e d
because the country can afford to service its debt
i g n o r e s t h e f u n d a m e n t a l question: why assume the burden at all? Why should a government elect to saddle its people with debt when it has within its grasp the m e a n s t o f u n d i t s o w n development?
The per capita debt of a n a t i o n i s n o t a m e r e abstraction on a balance sheet—it is a real and lasting l i a b i l i t y i m p o s e d u p o n citizens who had no say in the agreements that placed them in arrears.
To increase the debt b u r d e n s i m p l y b e c a u s e financial indicators suggest t h a t i t i s p r e s e n t l y sustainable is to ignore the e l e m e n t a r y p r i n c i p l e s o f responsible governance.
The logic of the lender is, of course, predictable. It is always in the interest of f i n a n c i a l i n s t i t u t i o n s t o
persuade the borrower that debt is a necessity, that p r o s p e r i t y i s c o n t i n g e n t
u p o n l e v e r a g i n g f u t u r e
e a r n i n g s a g a i n s t p r e s e n t expenditures. But the logic of the borrower should not be so pliant, so willing to accept the inevitability of debt when avenues exist to circumvent it altogether
This is not an argument for fiscal isolationism, nor is it a rejection of all borrowing as a matter of principle. There are instances where
b o r r o w i n g , p r o p e r l y
d e p l o y e d , c a n s t i m u l a t e
e c o n o m i c g r o w t h . B u t borrowing must be a last r e s o r t , n o t t h e d e f a u l t r e s p o n s e t o b u d g e t a r y shortfalls that could have
b e e n a v o i d e d w i t h
c o m p e t e n t r e s o u r c e management. A nation that abdicates its responsibility to extract fair value from its own assets cannot then feign helplessness when it finds
itself
obligations.
If the leaders of the state i n s i s t t h a t b o r r o w i n g i s unavoidable, let them first explain why the revenue lost to exploitative oil deals does
n o t c o n s t i t u t e a g r e a t e r
national emergency than the purported funding gap they seek to fill with loans. Let them explain why the price of poli
must be paid in interestbearing loans rather than in t h
contracts that siphon wealth from the public coffers. Let t h e m
country so rich in resources must continue to accumulate debt at the expense of its people’s future prosperity If they cannot, then the fiction of necessary borrowing must be exposed for what it is:
dressed in the language of financial prudence. It is not
inescapable—it is that those in power lack the political will to ensure that it is unnecessary
(The views expressed in this article are those of the
opinions of this newspaper.)
titanium, all kinda fancy thing America want. So, Trump gon make Ukraine sign a deal: minerals fuh future assistance. Dat is de art of de deal!
And watch how he handling Russia. Trump know if he promise Ukraine too much, Putin gon get vex and war gon drag on. So, he gon sweet talk Russia into a peace deal where he don’t have to give Ukraine too much, just enough to make dem feel good. In other words, he gon sell dem dreams and keep the profit.
Now, dem boys watching all of this and wondering: why Guyana leaders can’t learn a thing or two? Trump shaking down big, powerful countries like he selling plantain chips at the market, but Guyana got all this oil and can’t even squeeze a lil better deal out of ExxonMobil. Guyana leaders too soft, too weak-kneed.
Trump don’t beg, he don’t plead, he don’t say “Please, Mr Exxon.” He seh, “Y’all gon pay up or else!” But in Guyana, is Exxon giving the “or else,” and the leaders just nodding like bobblehead dolls.
Dem boys seh is time Guyana stop playing Ludo and start playing chess. Otherwise, we gon end up in a game we never sign up fuh—and worse, we might even lose de board!
Talk half. Leff half.
H@RD TRUTHS
Food import reduction 25 by 2025
I am as pleased as a porcupine today, and it has to d o w i t h F o o d S e c u r i t y Master, Excellency Irfaan Ali. It’s rare that a sitting president goes out of his way to prove people like me right. He did with the foreign food i m p o r t b i l l I h a v e frequently said publicly that His Excellency Ali is more than a president. He is a performer cum operator plus propagandizer Food Security Master Ali is the leader identified in the C A R I C O M b l o c t o spearhead the 25 by 2025 initiative. I expand: 25% reduction in the foreign food import bill by 2025. Whither the highly slickly marketed 25% reduction? How to address this serious food issue, when the leader of the initiative cannot be taken seriously
Seemingly, whatever is p l a c e d i n h i s h a n d , whispered in his ear, or heard in his head, Food Security Master Ali simply goes out a n d b l o w s h o l e s i n t h e microphones.
O n M a r c h 1 9 , 2 0 2 4 , President Ali was on fire: “now in the region, we have s e t o u r s e l v e s a g o a l o f achieving a reduction of import by 25 percent by 2 0 2 5 ” Wa r m i n g a n d thrilling, I must say He continued at a still higher
t e m p e r a t u r e : “ A r e c e n t review in February 2024, puts our progress at close to 70% of our objective since starting the initiative three years ago.”
Forget about reasoning. If so much (70%) could have been done in a mere three years, then how is it that residual smidgen of 30% is such an uphill task? How come it didn’t inch forward a n o t h e r 1 0 % o r s o , notwithstanding that laden donkey cart of challenges and excuses? I go further
On May 5, 2023, the WHO declared the lethal COVID19 pandemic to be officially over Yet 70% progress was made in the two prior years of COVID-19, and one year after its retreat (2023-24), S o , h o w a n d w h y i s
C A R I C O M f o r e i g n f o o d import bill reduction, that remaining 30%, now such a d a u n t i n g p r o p o s i t i o n i n 2025? I proceed still further: why five more years is now needed, expanded agenda and all?
First things first. I have h e a r d a b o u t b e i n g f i v e months behind, even five quarte
s
ff
he drawing board projections in extreme c i r c u m s t a n c e s B u t goddammit, not five years. I withdraw that swear word: against my teachings, not the best way to use the first three letters of that word, and it is a head of state involved. My own. Sometimes, I question the condition of his head. Dandruff is not a concern, so get that one out of sight.
However, here we are in 2 0 2 5 , a n d t h e r e i
C A R I C O M T h e r e i s
Excellency Ali in full flow
a g a i n “ We h a
t and lending in the agriculture
sector and a food production chain within the region”. That was extracted from an I N e w s b u l l e t i n d a t e d
F e b r u a r y 2 2 , 2 5 a n d captioned, “2025 ‘worrying’ for regional food security –
P r e s A l i a s C A R I C O M refocuses efforts.” To my fellow citizens, who are not so familiar with the verbal wiles of powermongers, I s h a r e s o m e t h i n g
“Refocuses” is politician speak for we don’t have a clue about what the so-andso we are doing, but we are bent on doing anything in the hope of getting it right sometime. It is 25% by 2030, and an expanded food s e c u r i t y a g e n d a f o r flavoring. To CARICOM and Food Security Master Ali, it is fine to think all the people in the region, none more than Guyanese, are complete blithering idiots. No one should make that mistake at latitudes close to me.
Now get a hold on this. Among the reasons tabled by President Ali for his failure
t o d e l i v e r a r e c l i m a t e change, logistics, and rising prices. As reasons go, those three reek of hilarity and the shaky Neither of the three are new on the market; all three are now as aged as one of Demerara’s better rums. Said differently, they have bearing, but would or should have been factored into the food security hopper Not to be left behind, SN threw its two barbells into the food
s e c u r i t y c a l c u l u s : ‘
(
C A R I C O M scheme to cut food imports extended by five years” -SN F e b r u a r y 2 6 , 2 0 2 5 ) Frankly, SN, “scheme” is a shade on the mischief side.
What natural disasters Mr Stabroek News and where, pray: the Repsol oil spill in Peru? Sorry, that question is redirected at the superstar h e a d i n g t h i s v i s i o n a r y agenda, Excellency, Dr Ali.
Try this: I could manage to buy a pound of grapes and a sack of mandarin oranges o n c e e v e r y s i x m o n t h s Now, I leave it to Guyanese
imagination and calculation to determine how much the foreign food bill is for this country, when the political and business bigshots stuff themselves daily with such fine and healthy luxuries. Throw in all the other luxury food items (Brussel sprouts, asparagus, romaine lettuce, and so forth) and there is one big foreign food import bill. I should include expensive CIROC vodka and Johnny Walker Blue, since many in the elite setup consider those to be food. Why not target those, so that local products could step in and reap the rewards?
H e r e ’s t h e n i g h t c a p : Food Security Master Ali f o u n d w h i p p i n g p o s t s everywhere. He’s better off starting with himself.
(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.)
uct
Four years after making proposals for funds from the government to complete its new headquarters building in L i n d e n , t h e R e g i o n a l Democratic Council (RDC)
o f R e g i o n 1 0 h a s b e e n
a l l o c a t e d a p p r o x i m a t e l y $235 million this year to execute the works- some $445M less than what is required for the project.
The RDC, however has s i n c e a d v e r t i s e d f o r contractors for the project and has invited them to submit bids. The bids will be opened on March 18, 2025 at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) office.
C o m m e n t i n g o n t h i s y e a r ’s f u n d i n g f o r t h e b u i l d i n g , R e g i o n a l
Chairman, Deron Adams told this newspaper that “The RDC has registered serious concern through its Clerk of Council with respect to the i n a d e q u a t e f i n a n c e s b u d g e t e d f o r t h e
c o n s t r u c t i o n o f i t s h e a d q u a r t e r s , s i n c e t h i s building had been estimated to cost $680 million as outlined in our 2025 budget requests and had been valued at over $600 million when o r i g i n a l l y p r o p o s e d i n 2018.”
A c c o r d i n g t o t h e Chairman, with just one third of that sum allocated means that the requirements for social distancing, safe and comfortable accommodation of their growing staff which c u r r e n t l y h a s s e v e r a l v a c a n c i e s , a n d a d e q u a t e provision of services to the people of Region 10 are all considerations that are being deliberately ignored. “This is marginalisation at best and discriminatory at worst, so we hold out the
hope that this is an oversight that would be remedied by the Ministr
financing would be made available to address the sum requested,” Adams stated.
A s k e d i f a d d i t i o n a l financing would be made
a v a i l a b l e , t h e C h a i r m a n added that it is their desire to see all departments operate f r o m t h e o n e l o c a t i o n Currently, he said the various departments are operating from various locations in
It was reported that the new Regional Democratic Council Headquarters will be located at Speightland, Mackenzie, and the decision for a new building emerged from the lack of space to properly accommodate the staff, all the departments that fall within the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) and the deplorable state of the building. Delays
M e a n w h i l e , r e g a r d i n g
this project, this publication reported previously that at a P a r l i a m e n t a r y P u b l i c Accounts Committee (PAC) meeting last year February, it was disclosed that after a contract for the building was initiated in 2017, the project was later terminated in 2021. It was explained during PAC that in December 2017,
t h e r e g i o n a w a r d e d a contract valued $256 million to Chungs Global for the construction of the Regional
A d m i n i s t r a t i o n b u i l d i n g
The project was given 24 m o n t h s c o m p l e t i o n t i m e which should have seen the project being completed in December 2019.
However, the project was d e l a y e d a n d g i v e n a temporary cease order in March 2018.
T h e p r o j e c t recommenced in January 2019 The Former REO, O r r i n G o r d o n e x p l a i n e d during the meeting that when he took up the position of REO, no work was started by March 2018.
An engineer from the RDC, Gavin Clarke had clarified at the meeting that when they had ordered the temporary cease work order in 2018, a recommencement
This occurred on January 31, 2019. Having been given a new commencement date, C l a r k e s a i d t h e r e v i s e d completion date was set for January 18, 2021. Clarke went on to state that with January 31, 2021 being the revised completion date, the letter of termination was issued to the contractor in April 2021.
He explained that in A p r i l 2 0 2 1 , u p o n examination of the works, only 12 percent of the works w
e T h e c u
n
Regional Executive Officer (REO), Dwight John, in his explanation at the time said
k s completed at the time.
K a
N
w s understands that after the termination of the contract in 2021, no other contract was awarded to complete the building. John told the PAC that he made proposals for funds to be set aside to complete the building in the 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024 budgets but t h e
o v e r n m e n t d i d n o t approve the proposals.
o r d e r w a s g i v e n t o t h e contractor for the project to be restarted.
Linden.
Hydromet office says Saharan dust to persist for the remainder
T
Wednesday urged persons to take precautions as there is a “higher concentration of Saharan dust” expecting to be moving around the country
In a special information bulletin, the Hydromet office said that the situation started on Wednesday and is projected to remain throughout the week. “Persons with respiratory illnesses should take all necessary precautions. Mariners at sea should also exercise caution as visibility will be reduced,” Hydrometeorological Service stated. For updates, visit [www.hydromet.gov.gy] (http://www.hydromet.gov.gy) or contact the National Weather Watch Center at 2613065/4489/2284.
Meanwhile, in 2024, the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) issued a health advisory encouraging individuals to take precautions against the harmful effects of Saharan dust. The agency recommended that persons stay indoors as much as possible, and should there be a need to be outdoors, they should wear a dust mask.
Additionally, using a HEPA filter indoors can help purify the air in individual rooms while persons with pulmonary conditions are advised to carry their medications at all times and use them as prescribed. Should difficulty breathing occur, professional medical advice should be sought immediately For less severe symptoms, standard allergy medications, such as antihistamines and steroid nasal sprays, may help alleviate discomfort.
Saharan Dust causes itchy eyes, runny noses, and sore throats; this colossal dust transport becomes a vital contributor to the Amazon Basin, as it is rich in phosphorus, a crucial nutrient for plant growth. As rain in the Amazon washes away up to 90% of the soil’s phosphorus to the sea, the significance of this external mineral supply becomes evident. During this unique natural phenomenon, the Saharan dust travels from across the Atlantic to South America and the Caribbean, creating colossal dust clouds visible from space.
Woman pays bail for fiancé who abused, assaulted and threatened her
A w o m a n w h o w a s assaulted and threatened by a man that she plans to get married to ended up paying h i s b a i
arraigned at the Georgetown M a g i s t
Wednesday
25-y
of the week
The latest SAL image is valid at 0900UTC, at about 05:00h on Wednesday
C
Roopnarine Somwaru a
placed on a total of $30,000 bail, $10 each for the three
told police that she would pay the bail.
Somwaru of 71 River ’s
V i e w P
i c R o a d , Ruimveldt was charged for allegedly using abusive and threating language as well as a s s a u l t i n g N a f e e z a Mohammed on February 22,
2025 a
R o a d G e o
Somwaru pleaded not guilty after the charges were read to h i m
Magistrate Faith McGusty Somwaru told the court that he and Mohammed both live at the same address and t h e y
married. However, due to the incident, he is uncertain if she will still go ahead with the wedding.
The magistrate requested the lot number and Somwaru Continued on page 15
Roopnarine Somwaru
Police to set up oil and gas unit
- install GPS tracking system on vehicles to prevent misuse
C o m m i s s i o n e r o f t h e
Guyana Police Force Clifton
H i c k e n o n We d n e s d a y announced, that the Force is looking to establish an Oil and Gas Unit, as part of its strategic plan spanning the years 2022-2026.
Speaking at the Annual Police Officer ’s Conference Hicken told the audience that
t
s
s and will remain resolute and committed to advancing the Force within the game of fully realising the objective set forth in the strategic plan. “ T h e r e f o r e , w e h o p e t o achieve the following ones; establish a police Tourism Department, Vehicle Unit and an Oil and Gas Unit…” Hicken did not disclose what work the oil and gas unit will be doing and efforts to get clarity on the matter have been unsuccessful.
H e h i g h l
o o
during his address that there has been a Police Reform C o m m i
e e t h a t w a s established, which will be d r i v i n g c
n management, aiding in the
Guyana Police Force (GPF) to the Guyana Police Service ( G P S ) A d d i t i o n
n keeping with this plan, there w
d digitization of the Force’s a
record-keeping processes.
F u r t h e r , H i c k e n underscored that they will “Continue to decentralise the Force’s day care service to each police region, which would allow ranks to focus a bit more on the work while their children are properly cared for In keeping with the wellness programme, he said there will also be therapists deployed to each policing region. He reminded of the cons
Commissioner of the Guyana Police Force, Clifton A. Hicken President Irfaan Ali
ce Academy at Dora, where they will be rolling out a c c r e d i t e d g
programmes.
Meanwhile, during his address, President Irfaan Ali announced that the Guyana Police Force will be ringfencing its assets to prevent
their use for other purposes besides Force business. This will be possible because they will soon be able to keep track where each vehicle attached to the Force is at any given time, as well as assess the performance of a number of ranks using the Global Positioning System (GPS),
putting the technology the asset, because people must be held accountable for their actions,” he stressed.
President Ali made it clear that the administration “cannot invest and does not h a
investment in giving
the b
making.”
shortly
President Ali told the conference that, “this year, a
$ 3
3 billion is allocated to the Guyana Police Force. This is the highest allocation ever in the history of the Guyana Police Force.”
He highlighted that of this sum, over $2B will be used to upgrade the Force’s fleet of vehicles. However, parallel to the upgrades, there will be investments into “a system that will ring fence, our assets, so that our assets cannot go on other r i d e s e x c e p t o p e r a t i o n a l rides.”
P r e s i d e n t A l i underscored that this is an important aspect of the Force
b e c a u s e t h e y h a v e t o safeguard their assets, hence there will be GPS mapping and tracking of the assets, “So that we will know when we invest $2 billion in our assets and the public call, and w e k n o w w e h a v e f i v e vehicles within five minutes of where that call is coming from, and none of the assets move, we will know where they were, what they were doing, and then we’ll have more people accountable as to why they did not respond.
S o t h a t i s t h e t y p e o f investment you’re making,
O n J a n u a r y 1 9 , t h i s publication reported that the Guyana Police Force (GPF) was allotted $2B from the $108 9B allocated to the security sector in the 2025 national budget to expand its fleet of vehicles.
This was announced by the Minister of Finance Dr A s h n i S i n g h d
h i s budget presentation to the N
y D r. Singh told the House, “we have managed to improve o u r e m e
n c y r e s p o n s e time and maintain a police p r e s e n c
v e r i n e c o m
u n i t i e s w i t h t h e acquisition of 27 boats and 21 outboard engines To further expand the Force’s transport fleet, an additional $2 billion is budgeted in 2025.”
T h e F o r c e w i l l a l s o benefit from an additional $4.7 billion, which has been a l l o c a
infrastructural needs. This will include $1.7
construction of the Brickdam Police Station. Another $1 billion is budgeted towards t
d completion of police stations and outposts at Imbotero, B
Beterverwagting, East La Penitence, Kitty, Mahaica, M
Kwakwani.
“Suppor t the work of the Gov t . beyond 2025”
At the opening ceremony of the Annual Police Conference 2025, President Irfaan Ali called on officers to support the work of the
remarks come even as the country is gearing up for general and regional elections slated to be held later this year
His direct message to the police officers to support the work of the government contrasts sharply with how he spoke to officers of the Guyana Defence Force last week. During his address at the GDF officers’ conference, the President told officers and other ranks that their duty is to the nation, its security and the preservation of law and order, not to any political interests. He underscored that 2025 is an election year and the GDF
i n maintaining peace and order and i m p o r t a n t l y , i n s u s t a i n i n g democracy forever in this country Elections are a fundamental pillar of our democracy, and we must ensure that the process unfolds the e n v i r o n m e n t f r e e f r o m i n t i m i
President Ali said though unrest or anything that is
A section of the gathering at the opening ceremony of the Annual Police Conference held on Wednesday
contrary to the rule of law is not anticipated, he urged the military to be vigilant against any attempt at u n s e t t l i n g i n t e r n a l o r d e r “Therefore, the GDF will be on standby and prepared to act if necessary, so as to uphold stability and protect the democratic stance,” the president said. He made it clear that they “are not asking anyone to take a partisan stand. We ask every day for the members of the Joint Services to take a professional and national stand. Every member of the Force has a right to vote according to the
...“we deser ve your suppor t” - Pres. Ali tells police officer s
democracy depends on free, fair and peaceful elections, and we will ensure that no force internal or external disrupts the will of the people.”
However, during his address to t h e p o l i c e o ff i c e r s y e s t e r d a y, President Ali put emphasis on what his administration has done for the Guyana Police Force (GPF) over the past five years. He also outlined key areas for police development, i n c l u d i n g a c c o u n t a b i l i t y , r e
financial reforms. President Ali stressed the importance of financial reforms in strengthening the Police Force’s ability to tackle financial crimes. To this end, he said, “As I work with your support and your help in continuing the work of the
dictates of their conscience, and as long as I’m commander-in-chief, the right will be respected. The professionalism of the military will be always upheld.” “Our duty is to the nation, to its security and the preservation of law and order, not to any political interests. Guyana’s
important part of our work will be financial reforms , the financial
financial system to better help us to fight financial crimes.”
highlighted the government’s Continued on page 16
Woman among 8 promoted to Assistant Commissioner
T h e P o l i c e S e r v i c e Commission (PSC) on Wednesday unveiled the list of police officers promoted for this year with a female superintendent along with seven o
moving up to the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP). Heading the list of officers moving to the rank of ACP is Traffic Chief, Mahendra Singh. The others include: Senior Superintendents: D
Shivpersaud Bacchus and Senior Superintendent Raphael Rose and the lone female Carol Fraser I
Superintendent Stephen Telford, S
Superintendent Mitchell Caesar, and Superintendent M. Singh were a
Superintendent Krishna Ramana,
S
P e r s a u d , S u p e r i n t e n d e n t S Shivbarran, and Superintendent C Singh were also appointed to the r o l e F u r t h e r m o r e , W o m a n Superintendent Nicola Kendall, Superinte
S
Herbert, Superintendent L Withrite, and Superinten dent Kevin Da
complete the list of those appointed as Senior Superintendent. Additionally, those appointed as Superintendents were: Deputy Superintendent Anthony Austin, D
Superintendent J. Prince. Further
Deputy Superintendent J. Dufu, Deputy Superintendent C. Duncan, and Deputy Superintendent Wayne De Hearte.
In addition, Rodwell Sarrobo, Raun Clarke, Rawl Nedd , Delon F r a s e r, D H a n d y, M
i
a m Jagnanan, Jewel Sullivan, Fedella Boyce, M. Khan, S. Murugaya, and Jermaine Grant were all elevated to superintendents. Additionally, 19 officers were promoted to deputy
superintendent on probation; six to
inspectors; 141 to inspectors; 82 to sergeants; 141 to corporal and a 100 to lance corporal.
more officers will be promoted. He explained, “I have been advised by the Chair of the PSC that there are s
consideration, and they have not completed the full consideration of all names so there are other names under consideration. So continue to
Gov t . uneasy over speeding, inexperienced truck drivers
- President Ali mulls amendments to traffic laws to tackle lawlessness on roadways
President Irfaan Ali has signaled potential amendments to Guyana’s traffic laws to tackle what he described as “lawlessness” on the country roadways as he expressed his government’s uneasiness with the speeding, inexperienced truck drivers on the roadways.
This publication reported earlier this week that five men lost their lives tragically between Sunday night and Monday morning after they were involved in three separate accidents along the roadways in Corentyne Berbice and at Wallers Delight Public Road, West Coast Demerara (WCD). Speaking at t h e o p e n i n g o f t h e A n n u a l O f f i c e r s ’ Conference 2025 at the Guyana Police Force headquarters, Eve Leary, on Wednesday, the head-of-state acknowledged improvements in road safety but stressed that more work remains to be done.
“Those challenges that weaken our ability to achieve these things that we have to address, the traffic laws. While we have seen tremendous improvement, there is a lot that must be done. There’s not a single person in this room who would tell me that there’s not an element of uneasiness if you have to drive to the airport and it’s not during the day, it’s 24/7, the trucks,” President Ali said. He underscored the hazards posed by speeding and inexperienced truck drivers on the roadways, pointing out that the average a g e o f t r u c k d r i v e r s h a s d e c r e a s e d significantly in recent years, posing an added risk to commuters. “Look, let’s be realistic. P o l i c i e s m u s t b e b a l a n c e d We h a v e t o implement strong measures to limit the speed of those trucks but we also have a problem. The average age of a truck driver years ago, may have been 30 plus today is what 22 or 23, you don’t develop road experience before you get to that truck. I can tell you, handling a truck is completely different from handling a car, the braking speed, the difference in the braking speed, load factor,” President Ali noted.
H e u n d e r s c o r e d t h e n e e d f o r a comprehensive approach that includes the use of technology, infrastructure investment, a n d l e g i s l a t i v e r e f o r m s H e r e f e r e n c e d existing efforts, such as the introduction of
electronic traffic tickets (E-tickets), speed cameras, and other monitoring tools, but s t r e s s e d t h a
mechanisms are necessary “But we also have to further amend the laws to have stronger en
stated. Ali also pointed to the importance of societal responsibility in curbing reckless driving habits, stating that while penalties p l a y a
, p u b l i c consciousness and accountability are crucial.
“It’s not the best approach that penalties must drive change. The best approach is that selfconsciousness, societal pressure, doing the right thing, should be able to drive change and drive home the point that we have to do the
doesn’t work, you have to go to stronger measures, which are the penalties,” Ali said.
highlighting key pillars such as enforcement, education, infrastructure development, and accountability
He reiterated that investments in road infrastructure must go hand in hand with strict regulations to ensure a safer and more
Ali’s remarks come amid growing public concern over road fatalities and reckless driving among other factors.
Womanpaysbail...
From page 11
was insisting that if he receives another court date, he can provide her with the
explained to him at the only way he will receive another court date is if she remands him to prison. After hearing such, Somwaru assured the court that once he was granted a phone call, he will be able to provide a lot number for an alternative residence.
Somwaru was granted the time to make the phone call and on his return, he gave the court his father ’s lot number on the West Coast Berbice. Somwaru was then released on bail, with the condition that he stays away from Somwaru at all times to keep the peace.
Ali during his address at the Annual Police Conference.
President Irfaan
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Pay hike approved for GPL workers
Workers of the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) have officially signed a twoyear agreement for salary increase following days of protests. The workers were backed by the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial, and Industrial Employees (NAACIE). This signed agreement includes a 7% salary increase for 2024 and a 5% increase for 2025. This was confirmed by General Secretary of the NAACIE Dawchan Naggasar, during an interview with Kaieteur News on Wednesday. He explained that the agreement covers the period from 2024 to 2025. “We signed off Friday, we signed a twoyear agreement from 2024 to 2025,” Naggasar said. He also stated that workers will now see their salary increase from
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March. “Payments will start to be made in March and then April and May because we will pay out the 2024 in March and 2025 will be paid in April and May. Seven percent increase in 2024 and 5% in 2025,” Naggasar explained. The salary hike had been initially agreed upon in 2024 after extensive negotiations between the workers’ union, GPL, and the government. The increase was scheduled to take effect in January 2025, but delays in government approval caused significant frustration among workers.
19-yr-old
girl dies after
car crashes into utility pole
A 19-year-old woman on Wednesday died after the car she was in crashed into a utility pole at the Berbice River Bridge Access Road, East Canje, Berbice, Region Six Dead is Annalisa Smith of Lot 248 Hope, East Coast Demerara.
Three others were severely injured after a 21-yearold Provisional Licensed driver lost control of motorcar #PSS 6725 and crashed into a Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) utility pole. The accident occurred at 12:20hrs Wednesday. According to police, the driver is identified as Clifton Smith and the other occupants include: Marlyn Jones, age 60; and Odessa Smith, age 49 of the above address and Simon Gomes, age 43 years, of 5th Street Alberttown, Georgetown.
Police said, “Initial inves-
tigations revealed that the car was proceeding west along the southern drive lane allegedly at a fast rate when the driver lost control and collided with a utility pole which is situated on the southern side of the road.”
As a result of the collision, Smith who was seated in the
back passenger’s seat sustained injuries to her body and was taken out in an unconscious condition by public-spirited citizens. She was taken by an ambulance to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital. However, Smith was pronounced dead on arrival. Her body is at the hospital’s
mortuary, awaiting a postmortem examination. The other occupants of the car are at the said hospital receiving treatment. A breathalyzer test was conducted on Clifton Smith and no trace of alcohol was found. The driver is in custody assisting with the investigation.
“Support the work of the Govt. beyond 2025”...
From page 14 investment in education and training for police officers, enabling them to attain higher qualifications. “We have never had this number of police officers at every level, with diplomas, degrees, masters, and even PhD, and you should applaud yourself for that. But never forget that this was not accidental. This was because of the government investing in making education opportunities more accessible to you, and you must applaud that,” he stated.
Further, he also reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing benefits for law enforcement officers, including home ownership and career incentives.
“And I’m not shy to say this, because it’s a reality. Those of you who know me know that I’m not shy to say, I’m not shy to ask for your support, because in my humble opinion, we deserve it, and in my humble opinion, you deserve our support. You deserve the love of any government. Because what you do, what the vast majority of you
do, is show unconditional love and sacrifice for this country’s people every day,” Ali stated.
Moreover, he acknowledged concerns over promotion structures within the Force, promising to explore ways to ensure officers receive adequate retirement benefits.
In fact, President Ali said, “One of the things that bothers me is the structure. You may have a constable that will be a constable for 25 years. Will retire as constable, some
may say that maybe they didn’t make the mark for promotion, but I would say that when you examine the structure, the structure required a certain balance at every level, whilst the salary and the benefit will increase. I can tell you that I’m thinking about how we can ensure that we incentivize that service, that even if a constable stays in the service for 25 years, that he must know that when he retires, his benefits can be calculated above those 25 years.”
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Some workers of the Guyana Power and Light protesting for salary hike
The damaged car which the four occupants were in
GNBS launches fifth National National Quality Awar ds ds
The Guyana National
B u r e a u o f S t a n d a r d s
( G N B S ) o n T u e s d a y launched its fifth National Quality Awards (NQA) to recognise businesses that
have excelled in quality standards.
The NQA honours local
companies that excel in implementing standards and quality systems in goods
p r o d u c t i o n a n d s e r v i c e delivery GNBS’ Executive Director Trevor Bassoo said
m o r e b u s i n e s s e s a n d
o r g a n i s a t i o n s a r e recognising the importance and benefits of embracing
p r o p e r s t a n d a r d s , w h i c h results in quality output and loyal clientele.
He made the statement during the simple ceremony at the GNBS office at the National Exhibition Centre
i n S o p h i a , G r e a t e r Georgetown.
“ W e s u p p o r t t h o s e businesses that specifically have an interest in a desire to adopt standards to help with
the improvement of their business processes, products and the services that they offer,” he said.
These businesses will a l
receiving the award only.
The executive director stated that the participating businesses will have the opportunity to be evaluated on their business procedures by an affordable third party
The NQA which began in 2 0 1 7 r e c o r d e d 1 8 participants and is hosted biennially
T h e p r o g r a m m e w a s strengthened in 2021 with revised awards categories that included environmental focus, sustainability, safety, and other areas, widening t h
businesses to participate. In 2021, 35 businesses p a r t
subsequently increased to 61 in 2023.
The award criteria will
principles.
“ We
businesses. Businesses that pay attention to leadership,
Paul Slowe on bail for allegedly disclosing name of sexual assault victim
F o r m e r A s s i s t a n t
C o m m i s s i o n e r o f P o l i c e Paul Slowe was placed on $50,000 bail on Wednesday for allegedly disclosing the name of a sexual assault victim, thereby breaching
t h e a n o n y m i t y o f a
c o m p l a i n a n t i n p r e s s reporting.
Slowe appeared at the G e o rg e t o w n M a g i s t r a t e s ’ Court before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty, i n t h e c o m p a n y o f h i s lawyer, Dawn Cush. Section 62 of the Sexual Offences Act, Chapter 8:03 prohibits t h e p u b l i c a t i o n o f a n y i n f o r m a t i o n t h a t c o u l d identify the complainant or witness to an offence under the Act.
Section 62 (3) outlines
t h a t e v e r y p e r s o n w h o publishes in any document or broadcasts, or transmits in any way, any information
t h a t c o u l d i d e n t i f y t h e complainant or a witness contrary to subsection (1) commits an offence and is l i a b l e o n s u m m a r y conviction to a fine of two million dollars.
Those in attendance at the GNBS launch of its 5th National Quality Awards competition
improvement, relationship management, among other areas,” Bassoo added.
The GNBS is inviting eligible applications from
industry, the financial sector,
among others.
T h e d
application is March 31. The awards ceremony is slated for October Present at the event were the Director of Guyana Tourism Authority,
Businessman in
court for alleged
was a djo
rned t o M arch 5 , 2025
M e a n w h i l e , i n a subsequent press release,
Cush said that last Friday,
S l o w e a t t e n d e d t h e
Brickdam Police Station where he was informed of the charge and placed on
$200,000 00 station bail
The charge related to an alleged incident where Mr
Slowe allegedly called the n a m e o f t h e v i r t u a l complainant in the sexual
Slowe denied the charge which states that on August 25, 2024, while at Parade a n d B a r r a c k S t r e e t s , Georgetown he breached the anonymity of a complainant in press reporting charge, when he disclosed the name of the alleged victim, who had accused him of sexually assaulting her His lawyer, Cush highlighted to the court that her client retired from the Guyana Police F o r c e i n 2 0 1 0 a s t h e Assistant Commissioner of Police after dedicating 37 y e a r s o f s e r v i c e S h e contended that her client was not a flight risk, as he was previously placed on bail in relation to other matters and always appears in court, when required to do so.
assault case which is being
h e a r d b y H o n . S e n i o r Magistrate Fabayo Azore i n C o u r t T h r e e , C u s h d e t a i l e d i n t h e r e l e a s e .
Cush noted too that in court on Wednesday, Nigel Hughes, Attorney-at-La
gunning down of wife
A3 2 - y e a r - o l d b u s i n e s s m a n w a s r e m a n d e d on Wednesday to prison for the alleged murder of his wife when he appeared at the D i a m o n d M a g i s t r a t e s ’ Court.
application and the matter was adjourned to March 5, 20
defendants in a $10 million fraud in the Guyana Police Force, whose charges were all dismissed on December 27, 2023 by Hon. Magistrate Rhondel Weaver for the p r o s e c u t i o n ’s f a i l u r e t o prove its case.
The sexual assault case where Mr Slowe is also charged, began and was adjourned to March 7, 2025, Cush said in the release.
Marlon DaSilva of Block ‘ X ‘ D i a m o n d H o u s i n g S c h e m e , E a s t B a n k Demerara (EBD) is accused of shooting his wife multiple t i m e s d u r i n g a “ h e a t e d argument” on Saturday at their home. Police identified his now dead wife as 27year-old Kenesha Vaughn and said that she died while receiving treatment at the Diamond Hospital.
D a S i l v a w a s a r r e s t e d later and charged with the offence of murder He appeared before Magistrate Wanda Fortune who read the charge to him. DaSilva was not required to enter a plea a n d w a s r e m a n d e d subsequently to prison. He is scheduled to return to court on March 21, 2025 for further proceedings.
Kaieteur News reported that DaSilva had contacted the police after reportedly
Remanded: Marlon DaSilva
s h o o t i n g t h e w o m a n
Investigators said that at the time of his arrest, DaSilva’s alcohol level in his body was 8 3 % “ N o t e t h e l e g a l l y prescribed limit is 35%”, police stated before adding that initial investigations revealed, he was drinking at a p o p u l a r d r i n k i n g e s t a b l i s h m e n t o n M a i n Street Georgetown, prior to the shooting.
His wife, according to police had called him to come home and it reportedly a n n o y e d t h e i n t o x i c a t e d DaSilva. He arrived home around 20:00hrs. and met Vaughn in the kitchen, police said. They got into a heated argument and it reportedly escalated into violence when DaSilva slapped Vaughn.
All
made that she then ran for
knife and returned. As she allegedly approached him, DaSilva pulled out his gun and began shooting her She fell to the ground wounded
showed up promptly and rushed her to the hospital
passed away.
“P
Hospital and twelve injuries (entry and exit) suspected to be gunshot wounds, were discovered on her body”, p
s processed the crime scene and found four 9MM shell casings and three projectiles (fired bullets)
Kamrul Baksh; the President of Guyana Manufacturing
Director of the Competition
Kandhi. (DPI)
Billion Indians have no spending money - report
(BBC NEWS) India is home to 1.4 billion people but around a billion lack money to spend on any d i s c r e t i o n a r y g o o d s o r
s e r v i c e s , a n e w r e p o r t estimates.
T h e c o u n t r y ’ s consuming class, effectively
the potential market for start-ups or business owners, is only about as big as Mexico, 130-140 million people, according to the report from Blume Ventures, a venture capital firm.
Another 300 million are “emerging” or “aspirant”
c o n s u m e r s b u t t h e y a r e reluctant spenders who have only just begun to open their purse strings, as click-of-a-
b u t t o n d i g i t a l p a y m e n t s make it easy to transact.
W h a t i s m o r e , t h e consuming class in Asia’s third largest economy is not “widening” as much as it is “deepening”, according to the report. That basically m e a n s I n d i a ’s w e a l t h y
population is not really growing in numbers, even t h o u g h t h o s e w h o a r e already rich are getting even wealthier
All of this is shaping the country’s consumer market in distinct ways, particularly accelerating the trend of
y doubling down on expensive, upgraded products catering to
market offerings This is evident in zooming sales of ultra-luxury gated housing and premium phones, even as their lower-
o m e s n o w constitute just 18% of India’s overall market compared with 40% five years ago. Branded goods are also capturing a bigger share of the market.
A n d t h e “ e x p e r i e n c e economy” is booming, with e x p e n s i v e t i c k e t s f o r conc
artists like Coldplay and Ed Sheeran selling like hot cakes. Companies that have adapted to these shifts have thrived, Sajith Pai, one of the report’s authors, told the BBC. “Those who are too focused at the mass end or have a product mix that doesn’t have exposure to the p r e m i u m e n d h a v e l o s t market share.”
The report’s findings bolster the long-held view that India’s post-pandemic recovery has been K-shaped - where the rich have got richer, while the poor have lost purchasing power In fact, this has been a long-term structural trend that began
even before the pandemic.
I n d i a h a s b e e n g e t t i n g increasingly more unequal, with the top 10% of Indians n o w h o l d i n g 5 7 7 % o f national income compared with 34% in 1990 The bottom half have seen their share of national income fall from 22.2% to 15%.
The latest consumption s l u m p , h o w e v e r , h a s deepened amid not just a destruction in purchasing power, but also a precipitous drop in financial savings and surging indebtedness among the masses. The country’s
c e n t r a l b a n k h a s a l s o c r a c k e d d o w n o n e a s y u n s e
propped up demand after the Covid pandemic.
Much of the consumption spending of the “emerging” or “aspirant” class of Indians was led by such borrowing and “turning off that tap will definitely have some impact on consumption”, says Pai. In the short run, two things are expected to help boost spending - a pick-up in rural demand on the back of a record harvest and a $12 billion tax give-away in the recently concluded budget. It will not be “dramatic” but could boost India’s GDPl a r g e l y d r i v e n b y consumption - by over half a percent, says Pai.
But major longer-term headwinds remain India’s middle classwhich has been a major e n g i n e f o r c o n s u m e r demand - is being squeezed out, with wages pretty much staying flat, according to data compiled by Marcellus Investment Managers. “The middle 50% of India’s taxpaying population has seen i t s i n c o m e s t a g n a t e i n absolute terms over the past d e c a d e T h i s i m p l i e s a halving of income in real t e r m s [ a d j u s t e d f o r inflation],” says the report, published in January “ T
hammering has decimated the middle class’s savings - the RBI [Reserve Bank of India] has repeatedly highlighted that net financial savings of Indian households are approaching a 50-year low This pounding suggests that products and s
spending are likely to face a rough time in the years ahead,” it adds The Marcellus report also points out that whitec
becoming harder to come by
automates clerical, secretarial and other routine work “The
employed in manufacturing units [as a percentage of all employed] in India has gone down significantly,” it adds.
flagged these concerns as
displacement as
economy like India, where a significant share of the IT workforce is employed in low value-added services sectors that are most prone to disruption.
Starmer and Badenoch clash over defence
(BBC NEWS) Conservative
l e a d e r K e m i B a d e n o c h h a s challenged Sir Keir Starmer over the hike in defence spending, after the PM said the rise amounted to £13.4bn.
The PM announced the UK will reallocate aid funds to boost military spending to 2.5% of GDP
by 2027, following President Trump’s demand that all European a l l i e s i n c r e a s e t h e i r d e f e n c e contributions. The decision comes as Sir Keir is set to fly to the US for talks with Trump in the White House, to discuss the war in U k r a i n e , l a t e r B a d e n o c h questioned Sir Keir over the exact amount, which Defence Secretary
J o h n H e a l e y s a i d c o u l d b e calculated as £6bn when inflation
was taken into account, and whether the Chagos deal would be funded from it.
At Prime Minister ’s Questions, Badenoch asked whether any of the new funding would be going towards the multi-billion pound Chagos deal twice. The UK plans to hand over the territory to Mauritius, but under the terms of the deal, the UK will continue to lease one of the islands, Diego Garcia, which contains a UK-US
military airbase, for a period of 99 years. The PM responded saying the increase in defence spending that was announced on Tuesday was for “our capability on defence and security in Europe”, adding: “The Chagos deal is extremely important for our security and for US security.”
B a d e n o c h f o c u s e d h e r questions to the prime minister on which figure for the defence risehis initial £13.4bn or £6bn, which Healey said was the increase “in real terms” - was correct. Sir Keir
r e s p o n d e d : “ I f y o u t a k e t h e numbers for this financial year and then the numbers for the financial year 2027-28, that’s a £13.4bn
i n c r e a s e “ T h a t ’s t h e l a rg e s t sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War which will put us in a position to ensure the security and defence of our country and of Europe.”
Badenoch pressed him again, saying: “The IFS said today that the government is playing silly games with numbers. How does he find this difference in numbers?”
Repeating himself, the PM then said they had already been “going through the same question over and over again” at previous PMQs
and said “if you ask again I’ll give the same answer again”, to loud cheers from his backbenchers. Objecting, Badenoch pointed out that “being patronising is not t h e s a m e a s a n s w e r i n g t h e q u e s t i o n ” W h e n B a d e n o c h suggested Sir Keir had listened to her advice on using international aid money for defence, he said: “I’m going to have to let the leader of the opposition down gently She didn’t feature in my thinking at all.
“I was so busy over the weekend I didn’t even see her p
herself I think saviour of the western civilisation in a desperate search for relevance.”
Earlier, a former defence chief of staff said he believed the decision to hike UK defence spending has been “accelerated”
by President Donald Trump’s actions on Ukraine. General Sir David Richards said the decision to raise defence spending over the next two years was a sound
strategic move, but one that
“almost certainly would not” be happening if not for Trump.
“It was going to happen, it’s now been accelerated by Donald
Trump’s actions, and all of us, I think, would say not before time,” he told BBC Radio 4’s Today
p r o g r a m m e . L o r d R i c h a r d s
stressed the British Army was currently “very hollowed out indeed” and suggested the “army isn’t big enough” currently for British troops to be part of a r o t a t i o n o f E u r o p e a n peacekeeping forces. Questions have been raised about the Labour g o v e r n m e n t ’s U - t u r n o n i t s m a n i f e s t o p l e d g e t o r a i s e i n t e r n a t i o n a l d e v e l o p m e n t funding by 0.2% of GDP, with unease among some Labour MPs about the move.
Speaking at PMQs, Labour b a c k b e n c h e r D i a n e A b b o t t s u g g e s t e d t h e d e c i s i o n c o u l d increase the risk of conflict abroad, telling the PM that “there is also a view that taking money from aid and development to spend on a r m a m e n t s a n d t a n k s m a k e s people less safe, not more safe, b e c a u s e t h e d e s p e r a t i o n a n d poverty that so often leads to w a r f a r e i s w h a t a i d a n d development money is supposed to counter.”
The PM defended the decision in the chamber, and earlier Healey
had said “hard power is now more important than soft power”. Asked whether the increase announced on Tuesday is linked to Sir Keir ’s visit to the White House, Healey t o l d t h e To d a y p r o g r a m m e : “President Trump, over the last two weeks, has been very direct in his challenge. “He’s reinforced the imperative and the importance of Britain making this commitment a
countries to step up in a similar way.” The US has been warning European leaders it wants to see a s i g n
defence contributions to Nato for at least a decade.
Trump’s rapprochement with Russia’s Vladimir Putin, and the US siding with Russia on a UN resolution on Ukraine, has sent sh
E
op
an allies. Asked whether he believed the UK increasing its defence contribution would bring Trump on side, Healey said that the PM could now tell Trump: “You are challenging Europe and the UK to step up on European security, on Ukraine, on defence spending, on reinforcing our industrial base. “We are, and we will step up further.”
Brands are driving growth by doubling down on expensive, upgraded products catering to the wealthy
Guyana to host INTERPOL conference next year
Come 2026 Guyana is slated to host the International Criminal Police Organization ( I N T E R P O L ) C o n f e r e n c e T h i s w a s disclosed by President Irfaan Ali at the Annual Officers Police Conference on Wednesday
President Ali said for Guyana to play host to the conference is testament to the work the government has been doing with the Guyana Police Force and the rest of the security sector “This is not by accident. The global system must have had to see the improvement. They must have had to have confidence in our system before they make these decisions.”
Offering words of encouragement, he told the ranks of the Guyana Police Force that they are stronger together and will ensure that the Force’s future is not only strong to protect Guyana and Guyanese but to also the members of the Force are united and have the best conditions to serve under According to their website, INTERPOL is an inter-governmental organization made up of 196 countries and they assist the police in each one of them to make the world a safer place. In order to do this, data sharing and access on crimes and criminals is enabled and INTERPOL in turn offers a range of technical and operational support.
Man pleads guilt y for shooting, burning and bur ying wife
Ryan Sugrim, who was accused of shooting his wife to the head, burning her body and then burying the remains in a shallow grave, pleaded guilty to the crime on Tuesday when he appeared before Justice Damone Younge in the Demerara High Court.
Sugrim admitted to the murder of Zaila Sugrim, 36, that occurred between May 11, 2019, and May 14, 2019, at La Union, West Coast Demerara. The victim, a mother of five who resided at Lot 569 Section A Block Y, Grove/Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara, had been missing for several days before detectives uncovered her bound, wrapped, and decomposing body from a shallow grave behind a gas station where her husband was employed.
Sugrim’s guilty plea ended the six-year matter and he is scheduled to be sentenced on
March 18, 2025. According to reports, Mrs. Sugrim had visited one of her sons on May 11, 2019. She reportedly later left with her estranged spouse. When she failed to return home, relatives tried to contact her After several futile attempts, they reported her missing.
It was reported that in late December 2018, Zaila Sugrim was hospitalised for five days after she was allegedly beaten by her spouse. She had left him, allegedly over his abusive behaviour Sugrim’s statement to the police had outlined a history of tension b
harrowing incident. The victim’s body was discovered on May 14, 2019. A post mortem, conducted on her body, revealed that the mother of five died from a gunshot injury to the head.
Logistics company in cour t for alleged tax evasion
A representative of Century Tamara Logistics Service Inc (CTLS) appeared at the G e o r g e t o w n M a g i s t r a t e s ’ C o u r t s o n Wednesday to answer five counts of failure to file income tax and Pay As You Earn (PAYE) charges.
Sheldon Davis, the managing director for CTLS who represented the company in court, pleaded not guilty to all five charges that were read to him by Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty
The Guyana Revenue and Authority (GRA) prosecutor/representative informed the court that CTLS had not submitted c o r p o r a t i o n t a x r e t u r n s t o G R A’ s Commission General, Godfrey Statia for the years 2021 and 2022.
The court heard that the company failed to submit their PAYE to the Commissioner Gener
or July, Sep
$38 million health centre for Rockstone
The community of Rockstone in Region 10 will soon benefit from a new health centre building, which is estimated to be constructed at a cost of $38 million.
This is according to a tender issued by the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region 10 who is seeking contractors for the job.
The Regional Administration this year was allocated some $1.6 billion from the n
programme, part of which will be used to construct the health centre. Regarding this project, Regional Chairman Deron Adams said that the decision was made to have it constructed following a consultation exercise with residents from the community who voiced their concerns with the RDC.
“The establishment of this health post when completed signifies our dedication to ensuring that our residents particularly in Amerindian communities have access to a wide range of healthcare services, including p
palliative care,” he explained. He continued, “As policy makers, our aim has always been to bring these essential services as close as possible to our people, ensuring that they receive the care they need in a timely and convenient manner.”
mentioned that the health department of the RDC will ensure that through various
initiatives, they can raise awareness about the importance of preventative measures in reducing the risk of non-communicable diseases. He said too that it is their belief that
responsibility for their own health, they can
community Kaieteur News understands that Rockstone, a community that is detached from Linden, has an existing health post for the community However, it is a small building being used and with the growing population there, it was recommended that a new health facility be constructed.
CGX holds out that Corentyne Block licence remains in place
CGX Energy Inc. and Frontera Energy Corporation, joint venture (JV) partners, have responded to the Government of Guyana’s d e c
m Prospecting Licence for the Corentyne Block offshore Guyana.
In a statement on February 24, the JV maintained that their agreement with the government remains valid and in force despite the government’s 30-days’ notice to terminate the licence.
The JV confirmed that it had provided a response letter to the government, contesting the termination of its licence and the grounds on which the decision was made. “Despite the Government’s contradictory positions, the Licence and the Joint Venture’s Petroleum Agreement with the Government in respect of the Corentyne block remain valid and in force. Additionally, in the Response Letter, t h e J o i n t Ve n t u r e h a s c o n t e s t e d t h e Government’s purported termination of the Licence, including the grounds for such termination,” the JV said.
if it is determined that the JV still holds a valid licence, the letter serves as a formal 30-day notice of the government’s intent to cancel it.
“The Government argues that the Licence has terminated, it invites the Joint Venture on or before February 22nd, 2025, to submit any representations [the Joint Venture] wish[es] [the Government] to consider prior to [the Government] making [its] final decision,” it was stated.
It was outlined that any licence will cease to be effective on March 10, 2025, unless representations made by CGX and Frontera are “favourably considered.” Additionally, the statement indicates that the government is open to good faith negotiations within the specified timeframe.
ember, October, November and December 2022 of that year as well as February, March and May 2023. It was also alleged that CTLS failed to lodge value added tax return for the tax period of August, September, October, November and December 2022 as well as January, March, April, May, June, July, November and December 2023.
The partners further asserted that their licence has not been terminated. “The Joint Venture remains firmly of the view that its interests in, and the Licence for, the Corentyne Block remain in place and in good standing and the Petroleum Agreement has not been terminated,” the statement read. Notwithstanding, the Joint Venture said it continues to assess all legal options available to it to assert its rights in respect of the Licence and the Petroleum Agreement.
Another charge states that the company failed to submit employee’s tax returns to the revenue authority for the year of assessment 2023 and 2024. It is also alleged that the company failed to lodge Value Added Tax returns for the tax period June, August, September and October 2023 as well as January, February, March, April, May, July, August and September for the year 2024. Magistrate McGusty placed Davis on selfbail and the matter was adjourned to March 26, 2025.
It was further stated, “The Joint Venture looks forward to expeditiously resolving this matter and continuing its multi-year efforts and investments to realize value for the people of Guyana and its shareholders from the Corentyne Block.” Earlier this month, CGX and Frontera disclosed in a statement that the Government of Guyana has issued a 30-day notice of its intention to cancel their licence. The JV had said that the government has taken the position that the licence and the Petroleum Agreement with the joint venture have already been terminated. For their part, the government told the partners that in their view, there are no reasonable grounds to grant an extension to CGX and Frontera for their exploration and appraisal obligations.
The previous statement also outlined that
Moreover, despite the government’s position, CGX and Frontera maintain that their interests in the Corentyne Block remain valid. In January, Guyana’s Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat said that the Government of Guyana cannot legally extend CGX and Frontera’s exploration licence for the Corentyne Block, and as a result can do nothing to assist the joint venture, Minister of Natural Resources.
Minister Bharrat had stated that the joint venture’s licence, along with an extension previously granted, had come to an end. Consequently, the Corentyne Block now reverts to State control. He said, “With regards to CGX, the position remains the same. There’s no change to position, with regards to how we dealing or handling the CGX matter…”
M i n i s t e r B h a r r a t s t a t e d t h a t t h e government has applied the same system to all companies in similar situations.
Executive Chairman for CGX (Guyana) Energy, Professor Suresh Narine
Dead: Zaila Sugrim
Ex-husband Ryan Sugrim
CWI CG United Women’s Super50 Cup Round 2… Guyana vs. Jamaica Grimmond,
Mangru, Millington lead
Guyana to emphatic 8-wicket win
Classy fifties from Mandy Mangru a n d R e a l e a n n a Grimmond, coupled with a
m a g i c a l s p e l l f r o m o ff -
s p i n n
P l a f f i a n a Millington, spurred Guyana to a crushing 8-wicket win
o
c a n s yesterday at the St. Paul’s Sports Complex, St. Kitts.
Guyana made light work
g e t , cruising to 178-2 in 47.1 overs after opener Mangru stroked 60 off 114 deliveries (4x4)
wicket stand of 109, shared alongside Grimmond.
T
youth skipper Grimmond, kept her cool as she took her
team home with a classy 72 not out off 131 balls as she found the boundary on six occasions.
Earlier, Chedean Nation (32), Neisha-Ann Welcome (29), Lena Scott (22), Jodian Morgan (23) and Vanessa Watts (20) carried Jamaica to a still decent enough score of 175 all out in 47.4 overs,
batting first.
Ve t e r a n
s p i n n e r Millington was a menace grabbing 3-16 from her 10 o v e r s , w i t h a l l - r o u n d e r Shabika Gajnabi picking up 2-27, forcing the Jamaicans to adjust quickly all innings.
F o u r o f G u y a n a ’ s r o t a t o r y s t r i k e o p t i o n s , including Ashmini Munisar and Sheneta Grimmond also returned one wicket each to h e l p c o m p l e t e a c o m p r e h e n s i v e b o w l i n g mission.
Thursday February 27, 2025
ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19)
Some unexpected but very welcome visitors could arrive today, Aries They might bring some people you don't know but should connect with right away Expect interesting n e w s , f a s c i n a t i n g information,.
TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20)
Taurus, who's that intriguing n e w p e r s o n i n y o u r neighborhood? What is it about this new neighbor that makes it impossible for you to stop wondering about them? Quit obsessing.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20)
An unexpected letter could arrive today, Gemini, with a check enclosed, perhaps a gift, bonus, or offer to make more money. This might be a welcome break.
CANCER (June 21–July 22)
I f y o u ' r e i n t h e a r t s o r s c i e n c e s , C a n c e r, s u d d e n inspiration could cause you to start or continue a project that means a lot to you.
LEO (July 23–Aug. 22)
M e d i t a t i o n , d r e a m s , o r visions could bring amazing insights your way, Leo. You might find them too bizarre to believe, at least at first, but f o l l o w - u p r e s e a r c h c o u l d reveal that what you've come up with is quite credible.
VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22)
You're an adventurous soul, Virgo. Are you thinking about a little mischief today? Are you going to propose that you and a friend or perhaps your partner skip town for a day and forget about work,
(Sept. 23–Oct. 22)
connected with your career, Libra. This is good news, but it may be so off the wall that you could walk around in a daze for a while trying to make sense of it all.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov 21)
An unexpected chance to fly to a faraway place, perhaps at someone else's expense, could come to you today, Scorpio. A group mig
d, perhaps one connected with education.
SAGIT (Nov 22–Dec. 21)
Some bizarre and rather silly dreams might come to you tonight, Sagittarius. They may be the sort that is so crazy that you actually wake up laughing. Don't dismiss them. Silly or not, these dreams are trying to tell you something.
CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19)
If you're single, you could feel a very powerful attraction to someone unusual and perhaps a little wacky If you're already in a relationship.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18)Have you been looking for a new job, Aquarius? If so, you might hear of an opportunity from an unexpected source, perhaps at a social gathering, if possible.
PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20)
If you're single, Pisces, love may come to you completely out of the blue today The p
i n g behind you in line at the store or sitting nearby you in the park.
GCB extends cong r atulations...
From page 27
Cricket Association (BCA) highlighting some of the issues as follows:
1. The manipulation of international and regional
seek to show favor and gain political mileage
2. A recommendation for the rotation of the President and Vice-President of CWI instead of the three-year term with the possibility to be elected for three terms
approved by stakeholders of CWI but with objections from the GCB and BCA.
3. The appointment of
some officials who do not measure up to the requisite
more qualified persons are overlooked.
4. The importance for C W
u
recommendations for a longterm development plan and programme to improve our on-field cricket.
We are confident that
commitment and fair play he will strongly influence the
improvement of our beloved cricket.
A f t e r b e i n g r u n o u t again, Katana Mentore (7), Mangru and Grimmond both sought to capitalize on their starts from the last game as they settled in for a century stand which laid Guyana’s platform for victory
B o t h l a d i e s w e r e w a t c h f u l a g a i n s t a n e x p e r i e n c e d J a m a i c a b o w l i n g u n i t , e v e n t u
h a l f - c e n t u r i e s i n c a l m fashion, just deliveries apart.
M a n g r u u n f o r t u n a t e l y fell to the bowling of Morgan (1-38) shortly after, but c a p t a i n S h e m a i n e Campbelle (23*) joined a fixed Grimmond to help see G u y a n a h o m e w i t h o u t further interruptions.
Meanwhile, Guyana will shift focus to tomorrow’s next assignment when they face Leeward Islands at Warner Park, from 10:00h. (C.R)
From page 24 attack Though Matthews fell in the 17th over, the chase was all but sealed, with captain Harmanpreet Kaur striking a boundary off her lone delivery faced to wrap up the game. T h i s v i c t o r y m a r k e d Mumbai Indians’ third of the season and propelled them to the top of the standings with six points, as Delhi Capitals Women were relegated to second place on net run rate.
LIBRA
Eng land out of Champions Tr ophy after Afghanistan thriller
BBC Sport - England were dumped out of the Champions Trophy by a nerve-shredding eight-run defeat by Afghanistan in Lahore.
Joe Root threatened to rescue his side from the brink, hitting a superb 120 as others fell around him in pursuit of 326.
But, battling cramp by the end, Root was caught with 39 runs needed from 26 balls as Afghanistan, who would have also been out with defeat, came roaring back. England should still have won – they needed 17 from 14 balls with three wickets left – but they fell away after Jamie Overton hit to long-on for 32.
Jofra Archer followed for 14 in the penultimate over, leaving final pair Adil Rashid and Mark Wood 13 to
get from the last.
T
singles from the first four balls and Rashid was caught
a
England were dismissed for 317.
That they got so close masked a wretched bowling performance in which they lost all control as Ibrahim Zadran took Afghanistan to 325-7 with a sensational 177 from 146 balls.
Battling to overcome an injury to Wood, England had their opponents 37-3 in the ninth over but conceded 108
contest.
Defeat means England are eliminated at the earliest
p p
group match against South
Saturday
Another miserable night for England
After the final catch was
Lahore were dancing in the aisles.
Australia showed four nights ago England’s target was chaseable by knocking off 352 against them on this ground.
But this many runs, for this team, under this pressure always felt unlikely and so, ultimately, it proved. That they got so close will only add to the pain.
With help from the rest of the top order scarce, Root took the match onto his shoulders and had swung it back to his until he gloved an u p p e
Azmatullah Omarzai.
Matthews, Sciver-Br unt’s all-r ound show fir e MI Women’s to eight-wicket win over UP War riorz
SportsMax - West Indies captain Hayley Matthews once again showcased her all-round prowess as she assisted Mumbai Indians Women to a dominant eightwicket victory over Chinelle Henry’s UP Warriorz in their Women’s Premier League ( W P L ) c l a s h a t t h e M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Wednesday
M a t t h e w s p l a y e d a crucial role with both bat and ball, first taking 1-38 to help restrict UP Warriorz to 142-9 and then hammered a 50-ball 59, which included seven fours and two sixes. Her c o m m a n d i n g i n n i n g s , combined with an unbeaten 75 off 44 balls from Nat
Sciver- Brunt, guided the Mumbai Indians to 143-2 with three overs to spare.
S c i v e r - B r u n t a l s o delivered an impressive allr o u n d p e r f o r m a n c e , claiming 3-18 from her four overs before leading the scoring charge with her a g g r e s s i v e k n o c k t h a t featured 13 boundaries.
After being sent in to bat, UP Warriorz had a rocky start as they lost their first wicket with just two runs on the board. However, Grace Harris steadied the innings with a quick-fire 26-ball 45, laced with six fours and two
sixes, while Dinesh Vrinda contributed 33 off 30 balls, including five boundaries.
T h e i r 7 9 - r u n s e c o n dwicket partnership gave the innings some stability, but their dismissals triggered a m i d d l e - o r d e r c o l l a p s e , l e a v i n g U P W a r r i o r z struggling at 93-5. Shweta Sehrawat, with 19 off 13 balls, and Uma
C h e t r y , w h o w a s
t unbeaten on 13, were the other notable contributors, as West Indies all-rounder Henry (seven) and others failed to make an impact, resulting in a sub-150 total.
England used to be the standard of the white-ball world and would have still closed out the match in days gone. Any aura built under Eoin Morgan has drained away over a miserable 18month period, however
C a p t a i n J o s B u t t l e r admitted on Tuesday his future as captain could be
decided by the result and d
immense pressure – this his
tournament in a row after failed defences of the 2023 50-over World Cup and the T20 version in 2024.
Brendon McCullum has
taking over as coach in January but will be given time to attempt to turn the ship around.
Buttler ’s future is far less certain.
Scores: Afghanistan 325 for 7 (Zadran 177, Omarzai 4 1 , A r c h e r 3 - 6 4 ) b e a t England 317 (Root 120, Omarzai 5-58) by eight runs.
GCB U15 inter-county tournament… Demerara, Berbice open accounts with strong round 1 victories
Th e G u y a n
C r i c k e t B
l e f t - a r m s p i n n e r J o s h u a
Shabnim Ismail (2-33) and Sanskriti Gupta (2-11) provided valuable support to Sciver-Brunt in the Mumbai Indians’ bowling attack.
M
Indians had a shaky start to their innings, as Matthew’s o p
H o w e v e r, M a t t h e w s a n d Sciver-Brunt ensured there were no further setbacks, as t h e y s
c o m m a n d i n
1 3 3 - r u n partnership that dismantled the UP Warriorz bowling (Continued on page 23)
r d (GCB) Under-15 inter-county tournament got off to a good start for Demerara and Berbice, who claimed huge wins as part of Tuesday’s opening round of g a m e s a t t h e L B I a n d Lusignan Grounds.
B a t t i n g f i r s t a t L u s i g n a n , D e m e r a r a
p o s t e d a f o r m i d a b l e 2 4 6 -
9 f r o m 5 0 o v e r s , l e d b y
P r o s p e r J a c o b u s w h o h i t
5 3 * , B r a n d o n H e n r y 4 6
a n d N a t h a n B i s h o p 2 3
O t h e r c o n t r i b u t i o n s
c a m e f r o m t h e l i k e s o f J o s h u a C o l e t t e ( 1 6 * ) ,
R e y a z L a t i f ( 1 4 ) , M a k a i
D o w l i n ( 1 4 ) a n d L o m a r
S e e c h a r r a n ( 1 3 )
S e l e c t X I b o w l i n g w a s l e d b y s p i r i t e d s p e l l s f r o m
T h o m a s ( 3 - 4 6 ) a n d
Ty r e s e M c P h e r s o n ( 23 2 ) , w i t h a f e w o t h e r b o w l e r s g r a b b i n g a w i c k e t e a c h
It was a swift death for the Select XI, being mowed down for 65 all out from just 19.4 overs, losing their way by a whopping 181-runs.
Only Akash Ramdewar (17), and Arav Sukhram (11) got into double digits a s s p i n n e r R e y a z L a t i f razed that batting order with magical returns of 720, coupled with 3-11 from sea m e r P a t r i c e F r a s e r Over in Berbice, the home team posted just 132 from 36 overs after knocks f r o m L u k e A m s t e r d a m (40), Arif Bacchus (36) and Saiad Jumratty (11) helped g i v e t h e i n n i n g s respectab i l i t y a n d a 2 6r u n w i n i n the end. The Essequibo pair of S h a z i m M o h a m e d w h o returned 5-18 and Jathni
Brandon Henry
Riyad Latiff Prosper Jacobus
West Indies captain Hayley Matthews and Nat Sciver-Brunt led the Mumbai Indians.
Mohammad Nabi struck with his first ball, dismissing Jamie Smith. (AFP/Getty Images)
Krammer to arrive in Brazil today
Th e P e t
a O r g a n i z a t i o n r e c e n t l y
, Sheldon Maharaj, received M V P
2 0 2 4 K F C G
, Raydon Krammer, at the Piarco International Airport.
e presented to him by Mitra Singh, who is the owner of S p o
located at Gulf City Mall. Raydon will join four o
m Trinidad in a three-month t r a i n i n
a t t h e Academia De Futbol Real Brasil.
T h e g r
u p
p
t e d T r i n i d a d a n d T o b a g o yesterday and is expected to a r r i v e i n B r a z i l t o d a y, February 27.
The Petra Organisation would like to congratulate the reigning MVP and wish him every success during his stay in Brazil.
St Lucia Bestows National Honours on Spor ting Icons
Julien Alfred, Daren Sammy, and Levern Spencer
SportsMax - Three of St
L u c i a ’s m o s t c e l e b r a t e d a t h l e t e s , J u l i e n A l f r e d , Daren Sammy, and Levern
S p e n c e r , h a v e b e e n
c o n f e r r e d w i t h t h e prestigious St Lucia Cross (SLC) in recognition of their
d i s t i n g u i s h e d s e r v i c e i n sports.
The announcement was made over the weekend as p a r t o f t h e n a t i o n ’ s I n d e p e n d e n c e D a y celebrations.
The honours, granted by His Excellency the Governor General as Chancellor of the Order of St Lucia on the advice of the Prime Minister,
a c k n o w l e d g e t h e t r i o ’s immense contributions to the country’s sporting legacy
T h e o f f i c i a l i n v e s t i t u r e ceremony is scheduled for March.
A t t h e P a r i s 2 0 2 4 Olympics, Alfred stunned the world with her 100m victory, clocking a national record of 10.72 seconds in the final. She then followed up with a silver medal in the 200m, further elevating St L u c i a ’s s t a t u s i n g l o b a l athletics.
E a r l i e r i n 2 0 2 4 , s h e claimed the 60m gold medal at the World Athletics Indoor Championships.
w h o h a i l s f r o m C a c a o
Babonneau, represented St
L u c i a i n f o u r O l y m p i c Games and eight World C h a m p
r
A A career, becoming the first woman in NCAA history to b r e a k t h e
barrier in the 60m event. S a
I n d i e s c r i c k e
T h e y o u n g s p r i n t i n g sensation also holds a silver m e d a l f r o m t h e 2 0 2 2 Commonwealth Games and h
I n t e r n a t i o n a l ( O D I ) d e b u t a g a i n s t B a n g l a d e s h H i s T e s t d e b u t i n 2 0 0 7 w a s e q u a l l y h i s t o r i c , a s h e c l a i m e d
f i g u r e s o f 7 / 6 6 a g a i n s t E n g l a n d , t h e b e s t
b o w l i n g p e r f o r m a n c e b y
a We s t I n d i a n o n d e b u t s i n c e A l f Va l e n t i n e i n 1 9 5 0 . A s c a p t a i n , S a m m y
l e d t h e We s t I n d i e s t o
v i c t o r y i n t h e I C C Wo r l d Tw e n t y 2 0 t o u r n a m e n t s i n 2 0 1 2 a n d 2 0 1 6 ,
m a k i n g h i m t h e o n l y c a p t a i n t o w i n t h e T 2 0
Wo r l d C u p t w i c e H e w a s
a l s o p a r t o f t h e We s t
I n d i e s t e a m t h a t w o n t h e
2 0 0 4 I C C C h a m p i o n s
T r o p h y.
B e y o n d h i s p l a y i n g career, Sammy has played a c r u c i a l r o l e i n t h e development of cricket in St
L u c i a a n d t h e w i d e r Caribbean, inspiring a new generation of players and proving that talent from small island nations can make a global impact.
L e v e r n S p e n c e r ’ s r e m a r k a b l e c a r e e r i n athletics has earned her one o f S t L u c i a ’ s h i g h e s t honours. The high jumper,
Julien Alfred, Daren Sammy, and Levern Spencer were given National Honours by the St Lucia Government.
Raydon Kramer (left) and Mr. Sheldon Maharaj
Mitra Singh assisted Raydon Krammer (right) with some valuable equipment.
Dir ector of Spor t hails U20 Lady Ja gs
CONCACAF Championship qualification
Guyana’s U20 Women’s National Team has stormed into the CONCACAF U20
C h a m p i o n s h i p w i t h a n unbeaten run in Group A of the Qualifiers, marking yet
a n o t h e r m i l e s t o n e f o r
women’s football in the nation.
The Lady Jags topped
t h e i r g r o u p ( A ) w i t h a commanding 5-0 victory of A n t i g u a a n d B a r b u d a , followed by a 1-0 upset against tournament favourites Haiti, before sealing their qualification with a hardfought 0-0 draw against Belize. The win saw them
b o o k i n g a p l a c e i n t h e
C O N C A C A F U 2 0 Championship later this year, where they will battle for one of four spots at the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland
Following their historic
achievement, Director of S p o r t , S t e v e N i n v a l l e ,
e x t e n d e d h e a r t f e l t congratulations on behalf of
t h e N a t i o n a l S p o r t s Commission (NSC), hailing the team’s performance as a l a n d m a r k m o m e n t f o r women’s football in Guyana.
“It was a proud day for Guyana. The team has not only showcased their talent and resilience but has also inspired a new generation of female footballers Their s u c c e s s s p e a k s v o l u m e s about the growth of women’s football in our country and the potential we have to c o m p e t e a t t h e h i g h e s t level,” Ninvalle stated.
The Director of Sport also e m p h a s i z e d t h e N S C ’s continued commitment to supporting women’s football, noting that the Government of Guyana stands firmly behind the team as they prepare for t h e n e x t s t a g e o f t h e competition
“Women’s football is on the rise, and the NSC will continue to provide avenues for girls and women to excel in sport. Equal opportunity and inclusivity are vital, and w e r e m a i n d e d i c a t e d t o ensuring that our female
a t h l e t e s r e c e i v e t h e resources, development, and recognition they deserve,”
Doncic helps Lakers beat former team Mavericks
The Guyana U-20
W o m e n ’ s N a t i o n a l Te a m has secured their place in the Concacaf U-20 Women’s
C h a m p i o n s h i p t h i s M a y after an unbeaten run in the qualifying stage. The Lady Jags sealed their qualification with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over regional powerhouse, Haiti in their final Group A match at the Antigua and Barbuda
F o o t b a l l A s s o c i a t i o n (ABFA) Technical Centre.
G u y
e group and did j u s t t h a t M y a n n e
Fernandes netted a goal in the 58th minute, leading the Lady J
s to a finish with seven points and a clean s heet a cross a ll t hree
matches
With this result, Guyana advances to the Concacaf U20 Women’s Championship, where they will compete for a spot in the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.
T e a m s f i n i s h i n g f i r s t t o f o u r t h p l a c e i n t h e C h a m p i o n s h i p w i l l e a r n t h e i r t i c k e t t o t h e 2 0 2 6 W o r l d C u p i n Poland.
H e a d C o a c h , P a u l
D e A b r e u s t a t e d , “ H i s t o r y h a s b e e n
c r e a t e d h e r e i n A n t i g u a
t o d a y ! I a m i n c r e d i b l y p r o u d o f the team for their hard work, discipline and determination throughout the group stage. Winning the group is a testament to their dedication, but we know the job isn’t done yet.”
H e a d d e d , “ W e ’ r e
e x c i t e d f o r t h e F i n a l
C h a m p i o n s h i p R o u n d
a n d w i l l k e e p p u s h i n g t o i m p r o v e a s w e h e a d i n t o the final.”
M e a n w h i l e , t h e
President of the GFF, Wayne
F o r d e , o f f e r e d h i s congratulations He said, “Congratulations to the U20 Lady Jags on topping Group A in the Concacaf U20 Women’s Qualifier
This is a proud moment not just for the Guyana Football Federation but for the entire nation, as we c e l e b r a t e t h i s h i s t o r i c achievement together.”
H e a l s o n o t e d , “ A heartfelt congratulations to the players, the head coach, t h e t e c h n i
s Group (ISG) members, and the entire GFF team for your hard work and dedication t h a t c o n t r i b
t e d t o t h i s monumental success. You have made us all proud!”
The Guyana Football Federation congratulates the players and staff on their o u t s t a n d i n g p e r f o r m a n c e and looks forward to their continued success on the regional and international stage.
Lakers to a 107-99 win over f
s Mavericks in the NBA.
The 25-year-old guard joined the Lakers as part of a three-way trade this month after six seasons at the Mavericks.
Playing against Dallas for the first time since that move, Doncic scored 19 points and made 15 rebounds and 12 assists at Crypto.com Arena. “In the first quarter, second quarter, I didn’t know what was happening. It was just different. I can’t even explain how I felt,” he told TNT
“I am just glad we got a win. I can’t wait to go to sleep.”
LeBron James scored 27 points for the Lakers, who are fourth in the Western
straight win, while Kyrie Irving scored 35 for the ninth-placed Mavericks.
The Memphis Grizzlies required overtime
Ninvalle added. At the 2020
made it to the quarterfinals before bowing out with a 3-0 loss to Haiti.
In an emotional showdown Tuesday in Los Angeles, Luka Donèiæ dropped a triple-double to lead the Lakers over the Mavs, yet the wounds from his shocking trade still linger. (Photo by Keith Birmingham/ MediaNews Group/Pasadena Star-News via Getty Images)
Haiti.
In t h e w o r l d o f
Shotokan Karate in the United Kingdom, 1 3 - y e a r - o l d N i c h o l a s Dunlop is making a name for h i m s e l f W i t h m u l t i p l e tournament victories under his belt Nicholas has set his s i g h t s o n o n e d a y representing Guyana, the birthplace of his parents, in international competition.
H i s m o t h e r , N i c o l a Dunlop, recently spoke with Kaieteur News, highlighting h e r s o n ’ s d e e p - r o o t e d connection to Guyana.
“We visit almost every year, sometimes more than once, so Nicholas strongly feels he’s more Guyanese than he is British,” Nicola shared during her family’s recent visit to the Land of Many Waters.
Nicola and her husband, Ernest Dunlop Snr, migrated
f r o m G u y a n a i n 1 9 9 6 , b u i l d i n g a n e w l i f e i n E n g l a n d T h e i r o t h e r
c h i l d r e n , E r n e s t J r a n d Renee, are both football players and while Nicholas
also plays the ‘beautiful g a m e ’ , p r i m a r i l y a s a goalkeeper, his true passion lies in combat sports.
“Nicholas has done well as a goalkeeper, even leading his school to a recent title,” Nicola said. “But his real focus and effort go into Karate.”
Nicholas’s journey in martial arts began at the tender age of four, driven by an unfortunate but all-tooc o m m o n e x p e r i e n c e , bullying.
H e r e c a l l s h o w h i s parents decided to enrol him in Karate classes after he r e p e a t e d l y c o m p l a i n e d a b o u t b e i n g b u l l i e d a t school.
“I was constantly being bullied, and my parents felt I n e e d e d t o l e a r n s e l fd e f e n c e , ” N i c h o l a s explained. “At first, Karate was just about protecting myself, but over time, it became part of me.”
A s h i s s k i l l s i m p r o v e d , s o d i d h i s c o n f i d e n c e N i c h o
The President, Executive and Members of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) are extremely pleased with the recent announcement that
G u y a n a ’s P r e s i d e n t D r. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has
been appointed the new Chairman of the Caricom Sub-Committee on Cricket.
T h i s a n n o u n c e m e n t w a s made by outgoing Chairman Dr Keith Rowley during the
f i n a l d a y o f t h e 4 8 t h
R e g i o n a l H e a d s o f Government Meeting held in Barbados last Friday
Dr Ali has over time
d e m o n s t r a t e d h i s considerable love for the
g a m e w i t h h i s r e g u l a r investment of both time and funds into the organization and development of cricket throughout Guyana. Indeed, he is most deserving of this a p p o i n
n
h e opinion of the GCB will g r e a t l y e n h a n c e t h e prospects for improvement
he’s more likely to step in and help others.
“
w h o a r e being bullied, or try to prevent it (bullying) from happening.”
H i s m o t h e r a d
S h o t o k a n K a r a t e h a s s e e
H o w e v e r, h e h a s o f t e n q u e stioned the absence of Guyanese representation at these events.
“ We w o u l d s e e m o s t l y J a m a i c a a n d s o m e o t h e r
C
i n t e r n a t i
n
t o u r n a m e n t s , b u t n o t
G u y a n a , ” N i c o l a
r e v e a l e d
“ A n d h e w o u l d s a y, ‘Mom, I really want to be out
t h e r e c o m p e t i n g f o r Guyana.’ We never asked him to represent Guyana, he just feels so connected to the country and wants to carry the flag when he competes.”
When asked why he
w a n t s t o c o m p e t e f o r Guyana, Nicholas said, “I
just feel more connected to Guyana. I mean, yeah, I compete against the guys representing the UK a lot and I beat them, but for me, I want to fight or compete for Guyana,” he said.
“ I t ’ s a s e n s e o f
b e l o n g i n g , ” h i s m o t h e r
a d d e d , a s N i c h o l a s c h i m e d i n , “ Yo u k n o w, I j u s t w a n t
t o s h o w t h e m w h a t
G u y a n e s e p e o p l e c a n d o . ”
K a r a t e i n t h e U K , l i k e
m a n y s p o r t s , i s f i l l e d w i t h p o l i t i c s , w i t h s e l e c t i o n s
o f t e n f a v o u r i n g a t h l e t e s
f r o m t o p c l u b s o r t h o s e
w i t h t h e r i g h t c o n n e c t i o n s
D e s p i t e t r a i n i n g w i t h t h e
n a t i o n a l t e a m a n d b e i n g
o n t h e v e rg e of selection, Nicholas has his eyes set on the future. “ T h e r e ’s a l o t o f
p o l i t i c s i n K a r a t e h e r e , a n d s e l e c t i o n u s u a l l y f a v o u r s t h o s e c o m p e t i n g
f o r t h e t o p c l u b s , ” N i c o l a
e x p l a i n e d . “ B u t w h i l e N i c h o l a s
w o u l d w e l c o m e a c a l l - u p
t o t h e U K n a t i o n a l t e a m ,
h i s d r e a m i s t o c o m p e te for
Guyana ” “ I t ’s n o t j u s t
h i m , ” N i c o l a s a i d “ M y d a u g h t e r p
in West Indies cricket both on the field of play as well as at the administrative level.
S i r C l i v e L l o y d o u r famed cricketing icon had publicly supported the call for Dr. Ali’s appointment by referring to the inherent
s p e c i a l s k i l l s o f o u r
esteemed President. Dr Ali’s interest in sports particularly c r i c k e t c a n n o t b e overemphasized since the magnitude of the funds he has invested in equipment,
a c a d e m i e s , s t a d i u m s , grounds and generally the
o v e r a l l d e v e l o p m e n t o f cricket across the counties of Guyana is truly exemplary
and impressive.
C o n g r a t u l a t i o n s a r e therefore in order for Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali on this well-deserved appointment. The GCB is proud of Dr. A l i ’s a c h i e v e m e n t s a n d looks forward to similar results during his tenure, especially given the poor state of our regional game as we watch the ongoing ICC
C h a m p i o n s T r o p h y Tournament being played without the West Indies.
P r e v i o u s l y, c o n c e r n s were raised with CWI and Caricom in a joint letter from the GCB and the Barbados (Continued on page 23)
President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali
Nicholas and his mom, Nicola after another successful karate competition.
Nicholas Dunlop dreams of one day representing Guyana in Shotokan Karate.
Nicholas Dunlop on top of the podium after another English Karate Federation tournament.
Realeanna Grimmond is congratulated by her
Grimmond, Mangru, Millington lead
Guyana
Ibrahim Zadran and Mohammad Nabi gave Afghanistan flight in death overs. (Associated Press)
The Guyana U-20 Women’s National Team.
CWI CG United Women’s Super50 Cup Round 2… Guyana vs. Jamaica
Guyana opener Mandy Mangru celebrates her fifty against Jamaica.
teammate shortly after reaching what would be an unbeaten half-century
