Israeli attacks on Gaza kill three as Hamas, Egypt hold ceasefire talks
…says failure to pay up will result in seizure Fishermen bawling at sea as they reel in empty seines
Woman quits U.S. job to fulfil childhood dream of owning restaurant in Guyana
Commissioner of Information undermining rather than promoting
- Chris Ram transparency in unpaid taxes from for four luxur y vehicles
Gov t . going after the Mohamed’s ...flags lack of accountability for millions received by office
over US-millions but not US-billions from ExxonMobil in taxes
- Glenn Lall
Azruddin Mohamed stands near one of his luxury vehicles
Guyanese fishermen complain while reeling empty seines
Govt. going after the Mohamed’s over US-millions but not US-billions from Exxon in taxes - Glenn Lall
While the Governments of Guyana and the United States of America (USA) have been silent on the massive taxes not being paid
h e r e b y U S o i l g i a n t , ExxonMobil, the respective governments have slapped a local family with sanctions for allegedly evading the payment of about US$50 million in taxes to the local treasury
This has resulted in the government cutting off all business with the family, effectively shutting down its
o p e r a t i o n s i n t h e g o l d , petroleum and quarry fields.
Highlighting what he believes is a great injustice to the Mohameds’ family was Publisher of Kaieteur News, Glenn Lall during his Friday evening Radio programme, aired on 99.1/ 99.5 FM.
Lall who has been a bold voice against corruption and an advocate for a fair oil contract with ExxonMobil used his platform to share his c o n c e r n s r e g a r d i n g t h e unfolding events.
He was clear that he was not interested in defending the Mohameds’ but in fact believes that if the family broke the law, then it should b e s u b j e c t t o t h e l e g a l
s y s t e m T h e n e w s p a p e r
Publisher however pointed out that to date, government has not received a shred of e v i d e n c e t o s u p p o r t t h e allegations of tax evasion by the family
To this end, he warned listeners that the fate of the Mohameds’ can befall any Guyanese in the future. In presenting his case, Lall
r e a s o n e d , “ A G u y a n e s e family, accused with no evidence, not convicted of defrauding taxes in their own country, is now being cast
a s i d e , b l a c k l i s t e d , a n d financially crippled, by a foreign country and while all t h i s i s h a p p e n i n g , E x x o n M o b i l a n d o t h e r foreign partners walked out
of Guyana with over US$10 billion in unpaid taxes to Guyana—more than twice the total debt Guyana sitting with at the end of last year.”
T h e b u s i n e s s m a n pointed out that the U.S. has not said a word against this, as he questioned the double s t a n d a r d s t h a t v i c t i m i z e G u y a n e s e L a l l i n s t e a d observed that the American company is instead praised for not making tax payments in Guyana.
To this end, he said, “The world cannot be that unjust, that distorted, that up-sided down. Where is the U.S. sanction for that? Where is the outrage for the billions ExxonMobil extracts while Guyana borrows to prop up its budget, to survive year after year? How do you explain this meh brothers and sisters?”
L a l l , k n o w n f o r h i s analogies, told listeners of t h e p r o g r a m m e t h a t t h e situation is equivalent to a man who is accused of taking a pint of milk from his own cow being sanctioned, while a stranger who is taking the whole bucket of m i l k a n d t h e c o w g e t s p r o t e c t i o n , s p e c i a l treatment, and free reign to do as they please.
He argued, “One set of r u l e s f o r t h e f o r e i g n exploiters, another set for the
Guyanese people. And some of our leaders still believe this is about justice? Wake u p p e o p l e , w a k e u p
While the Mohameds’ have been barred from doing b u s i n e s s w i t h U S
companies, Lall noted that government has also turned its back on the family over the alleged tax evasion. He said, “tell me, which law in Guyana gives the g o v t m o r e s o ( V i c e President Bharrat) Jagdeo, the authority to blacklist a private business without due process? The man and his family are entitled to a fair hearing, that is what is called due process. Look at the d
country!”
Lall contended that drug l o r d s s t i l l o p e r a t e t h e i r businesses freely in Guyana; convicted criminals of some of the most heinous crimes are still free to operate, along with corrupt officials who
continue to loot the nation’s wealth through shady deals and inflated contracts.
corporations are stripping Guyana’s wealth, walking away with billions of USdollars without paying a single cent in tax and still allowed to operate freely POLITICALLY MOTIVATED
Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.
Publisher: DR . GLENN LALL - TEL : 624-6456
Editor-In- Chief: NIGEL WILLIAMS
Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
ExxonMobil’s oil projects
There are some facts now part of Guyana’s growing oil sector. They can be sated publicly without fear of contradiction. Taken together, they are hard to dispute.
The first fact: The Liza 1, Liza 2, and Liza 3 (Payara) oil projects have been fully paid off. The second fact: The Guyana Government, acting under the powerful hand of Vice President Jagdeo, has approved another three oil projects. That’s a total of six massive oil projects approved so far, involving outlays of billions of US dollars by ExxonMobil. The Whiptail project was the last, and is set to cost US$12.7B. The third fact: Guyana has repaid US$33.9B to ExxonMobil out of a total of US$55B invested in Guyana’s oil sector, to date. This repaid amount was s
international news agency The fourth fact: ExxonMobil is putting the finishing touches of a seventh oil project to be p
ExxonMobil is expected to make its Final Investment Decision by midyear for the aptly named Hammerhead project. It may be accidental, but Hammerhead is a member of the predatory shark family The fifth fact: even without the submission, review, and approval process for the Hammerhead oil project (number seven) completed, ExxonMobil is already talking about plans for an eight one. We look at this short oil history of Guyana, with ExxonM
interpretations of what is going on here with this huge national patrimony The first three oil projects have been paid off, and the American oil supergiant is already way ahead of Guyana with more and more oil projects lined up for approval No sooner that several projects are in its hands, than it is ready with another set of them being readied to be raced forward with to shove before Guyana for approval It could be an indication of the company’s great ability at forward planning, which has its place, no doubt It is safe to say that more projects mean more barrels of daily production being set in motion, with 1 4 million barrels per day, as an intermediate target, and two million barrels daily not long after that achievement More daily production means more handsome profits for ExxonMobil and its partners All of this has its positives, no matter how narrow for Guyana, considering the meagerness of its percentages as provided for in the 2016 ExxonMobil-Guyana Production Sharing Agreement
On the other hand, there is another aspect, a dirty and damaging one, to this flurry of oil projects approved for ExxonMobil, with a couple more scheduled to show up soon. More oil projects require more US billions in investment. More US billions in expenses claimed by ExxonMobil keep the 75% take from right off the top of oil revenues going at the same speed as before. As fast as projects are approved, ExxonMobil is given the opportunity to arrange its expenses to spread from one project to another and, ultimately, to a number of them. To give credit where such is due, as dubious as it may appear, Guyana’s chief oilman has done more than his share to keep this project game going at an uninterrupted clip In the new projects game, Jagdeo has been sublime, a trusted partner with the necessary power to give ExxonMobil a valuable assist with its new oil projects schemes He has approved four oil projects and is most likely ready with his stamp to approve oil project number seven, and whatever else is coming out of the ExxonMobil project assembly line There is the best reason for this excitement, this zeal, from Jagdeo and ExxonMobil, working hand-in-hand. Like infrastructure in Guyana, the budget truck keeps doling out its billions. Stopping or slowing down spending is to stop the profit bacchanal. ExxonMobil has its version: new billion-dollar projects. With no ring-fencing of oil projects, billions can be spread across projects. Guyana’s oil revenues will pay for them, so that ExxonMobil continues to profits lavishly No ringfencing means no stopping the flow of projects. No ringfencing means no end to the American billions gushing to ExxonMobil. No ring-fencing means Guyana settles for paltry royalties and profits from its wealth.
Kaieteur
Ministry of Finance Must Clarify Government-Paid Taxes for ExxonMobil and Partners
DEAR EDITOR,
G u y a n a b e c a m e a member of the Extractive I
Initiative (EITI) on October 25, 2017. Since then, the country has been expected to adhere to EITI standards by disclosing key financial data
industries.
consistently raised concerns
transparency regarding tax
Government of Guyana on behalf of ExxonMobil and its partners, as stipulated in t h e 2 0 1 6 P
t
o l e u m Agreement, more commonly
g Agreement (PSA). In a series
o f l e t t e r s p u
i s h e d i n Kaieteur News (February 16, February 23, and March 2 , 2 0 2 5 ) , w e h a v e highlighted the urgent need for full disclosure of these payments.
Specifically, OGGN has a s k e d t h e C o m m i s s i o n e r G e n e r a l o f t h e G u y a n a
Revenue Authority (GRA), Mr Godfrey Statia, and the M i n i s t e r o f N a t u r a l Resources, the Honorable Vickram Bharrat, for public confirmation on whether the government has made tax p a y m e n t s o n b e h a l f o f
E x x o n M o b i l a n d i t s partners. We refer to our letters of February 23 and M a r c h 2 , 2 0 2 5 , w h i c h provide a detailed listing of our requests directed at these o f f i c i a l s D e s p i t e t h e s e efforts, the public has yet to receive a response on this critical issue.
The EITI Standard calls for comprehensive reporting
of all material financial flows in the extractive sector, including government-paid t a x e s o n b e h a l f o f c o m p a n i e s To u p h o l d
t r a n s p a r e n c y a n d accountability in Guyana’s
o i l a n d g a s s e c t o r, t h e Ministry of Finance must c o n f i r m w h e t h e r i t h a s provided relevant data on these payments for the EITI
r e p o r t s . S p e c i f i c a l l y, t h e p u b l i c d e s e r v e s d e t a i l e d answers to the following:
1. W h a t s p e c i f i c
details has the Ministry of Finance disclosed regarding tax payments made by the Government of Guyana on behalf of ExxonMobil and its partners for inclusion in EITI reports?
2. For the EITI reports of 2020, 2021, and 2022, what specific information has the Ministry of Finance provided regarding these tax payments, and how has this been reflected in the reports?
3. What measures has the Ministry implemented to e n h a n c e t r a n s p a r e n c y regarding these payments, and how do they align with international best practices i n e x t r a c t i v e s e c t o r governance?
The Ministry of Finance plays a key role in this p r o c e s s b y p r o v i d i n g financial data on revenues collected from the extractive s e c t o r, i n c l u d i n g t a x e s , r o y a l t i e s , a n d o t h e r payments. Its contributions are crucial for ensuring the accuracy and completeness of financial disclosures in these reports. Transparency in this matter is essential to maintaining public trust in
Guyana’s natural resources.
Guyana’s oil wealth is of
citizens must be assured that every dollar is accounted for in a transparent manner Full disclosure of these payments will help strengthen public trust and reinforce Guyana’s c o m m i t m e n t t o g o o d governance in the extractive sector
Dr Ashni Singh serves as the Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service. In this capacity, he oversees the functions of the Ministry of Finance. We call on Dr Singh to publicly clarify this m a t t e r a n d p r o v i d e t h e necessary transparency that Guyanese citizens rightfully expect.
Sincerely,
Andre Brandli
Janette Bulkan Kenrick Hunte Darshand Khusial For the Oil and Gas G o v e r n a n c e N e t w o r k G u y a n a ( O G G N )
(www.oggn.org)
Kaieteur M@ilbox
Alexander ’s call for a review of the 2020 General and Regional Elections is useless and unnecessary
DEAR EDITOR,
Mr Vincent Alexander,
o n e o f t h e p o l i t i c a l opposition’s representatives at GECOM has called for a review of the 2020 General and Regional Elections.
This call, albeit dead in the water, has been made
before by Commissioner Alexander and his principals in the political opposition.
In essence, Alexander ’s call stems from unproven
allegations made by his party - the PNC - spuriously claiming there was ‘electoral
m i s c o n d u c t p u r p o r t e d l y committed by staff of the G u y a n a E l e c t i o n s C o m m i s s i o n i n c o l l a b o r a t i o n w i t h t h e People’s Progressive Party (PPP).’
As a member of the GECOM representing the P P P / C , I h o l d t h a t t h e o p p o s i t i o n ’ s s p u r i o u s allegations have never been substantiated to this day, by a
s c i n t i l l a o f c o n c r e t e evidence.
I t i s n o t s u r p r i s i n g therefore that the wild and far-fetched claims made by the PNCR have been met with skepticism and has b e e n b r u s h e d a s i d e b y stakeholders due to their lack of corroboration from independent sources.
Editor, allow me to put t h e m a t t e r i n c o n t e x t
G u y a n e s e a t h o m e a n d abroad would recall that the 2020 general and regional elections were marked by s i g n i f i c a n t t e n s i o n a n d controversy
Following the elections held on March 2, 2020, there was a period before results w e r e d e c l a r e d a p p r o x i m a t e l y five months.
This delay was largely a t t r i b u t e d t o u n l a w f u l a t t e m p t s t o r a n s a c k t h e verification process, disrupt a n d c o r r u p t t h e v o t e tabulation of the results for District 4. It is essential to recognize that these actions were solely initiated by one party – the APNU+AFC.
N u m e r o u s l o c a l a n d i n t e r n a t i o n a l o b s e r v e r s m o n i t o r e d t h e e l e c
a l process in 2020. Reports from organizations such as
U n i o n / C o m m i s s i o n a n d CARICOM confirmed that while there were challenges, the elections were conducted in a manner consistent with democratic norms.
T h e i n t e r n a t i o n a l observers concluded that despite some irregularities, there was no substantial evidence indicating that the elections were rigged.
In the light of these observations, any call for a review must be grounded in factual evidence rather than unproven allegations. Such a review, if ever agreed by the Commission should focus on transparent processes and adhere to established legal frameworks.
It is critical to highlight t h a t a m a j o r f a c t o r contributing to the current situation is the previous Chief Election Officer ’s failure to p r e p a r e a n d s u b m i t t o GECOM a report on the 2020 Regional and General E l e c t i o n s i n G u y a n a a s m a n d a t e d b y l a w T h i s o m i s s i o n h a s s e r i o u s implications.
The law requires that a report on the 2020 General and Regional Election be submitted to GECOM by the CEO Mr Keith Lowenfield was the CEO at GECOM for the 2020 elections.
The election report serves as a foundational document for evaluating the conduct of elections
W i t h o u t t h e r e p o r t , GECOM lacks essential data n e e d e d f o r a t h o r o u g h evaluation. Furthermore, the absence of the report hampers efforts to identify specific areas where irregularities may have occurred.
As a consequence, the absence of the CEO’s Report w o u l d r e n d e r a n y evaluation, as desired by Commissioner Alexander, as useless, unnecessary and without basis.
Moreover, without such a d o c u m e n t , i t w i l l b e challenging to conduct an informed review of the 2020 G e n e r a l a n d R e g i o n a l e l e c t i o n s I n m y v i e w, Commissioner Alexander ’s call for a review reflects a n o t h e r, i n a s e r i e s o f attempts by both he and his principals, to tie the hands of
lth O bs er v er Group, The Carter Center, T h e E u r o p e a n
GECOM and to distract it from the tasks ahead for the holding of the 2025 election.
All the noise emanating from the political opposition
about their concerns for electoral integrity should be viewed in the context of their b r a z e n a t t e m p t s t o u n d e r m i n e t h e p e o p l e ’s confidence in GECOM in particular and the electoral process in general.
I therefore hold that any talk of a review of the 2O20 election should be canned, since for all intents and purposes it is politically motivated and based on the narrow self-interest of the PNC.
Yours faithfully, Clement J. Rohee
C o m m i s s i o n e r , GECOM
M@ilbox
Re-evaluating the City of Georgetown’s properties
DEAR EDITOR,
A few days ago, His Worship the Mayor in a very misinformed way, spoke of
reevaluating the City of Georgetown’s properties.
Over the last 30 years, M&CC had hired two wellk
undertake this job. They were never able to complete their tasks - One had done as much as three-quarters of the city
The legal procedure of r e e v a l u a t i n g t h e C i t y ’s properties is as follows: (i) Tender for a Valuator
and then the Council, after debate, decides on one ( i i ) P u b l i c i z e t h e Valuation for three weeks.
(iii) Valuation begins Valuators could use modern IT and Aerial Surveys.
(iv) Valuation results by wards are widely publicized
in both print and electronic media.
(v) Period of six weeks allowed for objections by property owners ( v i ) T h
effect from the next calendar year This is important to
note since the mayor was under the impression that the
effect in the same year as it was done.
What M&CC could do and indeed must do are the following: (a) When new buildings are to be constructed or fundamentally repaired, the owners must submit their plans to the City Engineer f o r a p p r o v a l A n e w reevaluation of this property would be done at this stage. This could be done ex post
(Continued on page 09)
BLUNTNESS ON INDECENCIES!
In case you haven’t heard, please be informed that as part of our continued effort to channel positive changes in our country, our publisher, Mr. Glenn Lall, has dedicated our Page Seven to be “BLUNT” about on-going indecencies in our land that should matter, not only to us at this publication, but the entire nation.
Sunday – March 2, 2025
The Old Game
T h e y c o m e s m i l i n g They come promising. They come with one hand shaking, the other stealing.
D i v i d e D i s t r a c t Deplete. That is the script. That is the scheme.
First, they plant seeds of division. Stir up old wounds. Fan new flames. Brother against brother Neighbour against neighbour Leaders against the people. Keep us fighting while they keep digging.
Next, they sow internal conflict beyond our borders.
Talk of threats Talk of invasions. Keep us looking outward while they plunder
i n w a r d . T h e y s e l l u s slingshots while they hoard the cannons.
Meanwhile, our wealth
v a n i s h e s . O u r r i c h e s d i
bauxite—all gone. Packed up Shipped out Profits offshore. Pennies for us. This is not new History has taught us. Yet, we refuse to learn. We play the fool; we fall in love with being fools.
Wake up, Guyana! Stop dancing to their tune. Stop chasing their shadows. Eyes on the prize, or lose it in a blink.
This is our land. This is our wealth. This is our fight. Let's not lose it to the same old trick.
Monday – March 3, 2025
Venezuela's recklessness
T h e V e n e z u e l a n government would do well to recognize the folly of its current course. To continue pressing its argument that oil c o m p a n i e
intellectually dishonest but legally indefensible. For the oil companies, the situation is clearer still.
authority of the Guyanese government, in accordance with international law, and under the protection of a legal order that has not been overturned. They are not
engaged in an act of unlawful aggression. They are doing
investing in development,
prosperity of a nation that has every right to chart its
Venezuela's suggestion that they are engaged in illegal
y unfounded but reckless. It is an attempt to intimidate and d
transparent as it is tiresome. Wednesday – March 5, 2025
LIZA 1,2, & 3 -where is Guyana's FULL SHARE, Jagdeo?
Vice Pres. Jagdeo told Reuters that US$33.9B has been repaid to Exxon.
The Liza 1, Liza 2, and Liza 3 projects total cost were US$18.5B
W h y i s G u y a n a n o t collecting the full share of p r o f i t s f r o m t h o s e t h r e e projects, Mr Jagdeo?
All expenses, all costs have been fully repaid.
W h a t h a p p e n e d t o Guyana's full share from the three projects, Mr Jagdeo?
Thursday – March 6, 2025
Why approve more projects for Exxon, Jagdeo?
When Guyana approves
more oil projects for Exxon, it aids Exxon's programme.
Wi
expenses.
Billions in new expenses are manufactured by Exxon,
fencing.
I
encouraging Exxon in its
switch profits due to Guyana as expenses to be repaid to Exxon.
p
Why approve more oil
Jagdeo?
What kind of games are being played, Mr Jagdeo, on the backs of Guyanese?
Friday – March 7, 2025
Ring-fencing halts oil company expense manipulation, Jagdeo Vice President Jagdeo knows it, he should get to it.
Why he is so against ring-fencing, only he and Exxon knows.
When a project is ringfenced, expenses are kept right in that project.
When there is no ringfencing, Guyana is paying
E x x o n t o m a n u f a c
u
e expenses.Guyana has fully repaid Exxon for its first three oil projects.
Yet more profits depend on more barrels produced
Who is colluding with whom to block ring-fencing?
Who is scratching whose back, so there is no ringfencing?
Guyana is losing, who is benefiting?
S a y s o m e t h i n g , M r. Jagdeo.
Tell Guyanese the full story of why there is no ringfencing.
The PPP and myth-making
Th e P e o p l e ’ s Progressive Party ( P P P ) , a s i t commemorates yet another anniversary of the failed attempt to rig the 2020 e l e c t i o n s , t a k e s g r e a t pleasure in reminding the public that it was the only bulwark against electoral theft. The party’s General Secretary has taken up the tired refrain that it was only a party like the PPP that could
h a v e r e s i s t e d s u c h a n audacious heist.
T h e n a r r a t i v e i s p r e d i c t a b l e , t h e m y t hbuilding meticulous, and the arrogance spectacular In this version of history, the PPP alone is the hero, the rest
m e r e l y f o o t n o t e s i n i t s grandiose tale of struggle. But myth and reality have n e v e r m a d e g o o d bedfellows, and history, in its relentless honesty, tells a different story
T h e P P P ’s c l a i m t o greatness collapses under t h e w e i g h t o f i t s o w n contradictions. If the party were as politically astute as it proclaims, why did it lose
power so embarrassingly in 1964? Cheddi Jagan, the p a r t y ’ s f o u n d e r a n d ideological lodestar, did not f a l l v i c t i m t o e x t e r n a l
m a c h i n a t i o n s a l o n e h e blundered into irrelevance. When Jagan, in what can o n l y b e d e s c r i b e d a s a spectacular act of political naivety, signed an agreement that allowed the British to dictate the electoral system, he effectively handed power to his opponents.
The British, who had no love for Jagan’s Marxist i n c l i n a t i o n s , i n t r o d u c e d proportional representation, a s y s t e m t h a t w a s unfavourable to the PPP And just like that, the party was out of office.
The PPP did not liberate Guyana from Burnham’s iron grip—Walter Rodney and the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) did more to shake the foundations of PNC rule than Jagan ever could. Yet, when the dust settled, and the PPP returned to power in 1992, it made no attempt to acknowledge the contributions of Rodney and the WPA. Instead, the party set about writing itself into the history books as the singular force of democratic resistance. If the PPP were a truly great party, it would have had the humility to recognize the sacrifices of others. Instead, it chose selfa g g r a n d i z e m e n t o v e r
honesty
The PPP’s long struggle against the Burnham and H o y t e d i c t a t o r s h i p s w a s only successful because of i n t e r n a t i o n a l d e v e l o p m
notably, the end of the Cold W a r w h i c h m a d
fortuitous for the West to
For the next 28 years, the P P P l a n g u i s h e d i n t h e political wilderness, unable t o m o u n t a n e f f e c t i v e c h a l l e n g e t o B u r n h a m ’s People’s National Congress (PNC). Jagan’s long struggle for democracy yielded little b e y o n d t h e o c c a s i o n a l c o n d e m n a t i o n o f r i g g e d elections and the predictable pronouncements about the p a r t y ’s c o m m i t m e n t t o socialist principles.
Re-evaluating the City of Georgetown’s...
From page 06 facto, no matter how many years have elapsed.
(b) Many residential properties over the years have been converted into
without paying the increases in taxes. M&CC must do a
commercial properties still
paying the residential rates. One could begin with the
supermarkets which were once residential. If the M&CC were to effectuate (a) and (b) above and begin to collect arrears of taxes by use of Execution
properties, by year end, the
City Treasurer would have collected more money than M&CC could use. Would the M&CC have the necessary Management skills and gumption to be able to effectuate (a) and (b) above and carry out the Execution Sales?
Yours sincerely
Ramlochan
DEM BOYS SEH
Trumpism coming to Guyana?
Guyanese love a strong man. Not de gym kinda strong, but de big boss man who knock he hand pon table and seh, “Is me seh so!” We love a leader who does talk rough, point finger, and take charge. Don’t let we fool ourselves dat is not so.
But history show that every time we get one of dem, we end up crying. Is a paradox, but we like it so.
Now dem boys hearing some leaders watching Trump 2.0 real close. Y’all know Trump—de man who seh he win even when he lose, who turn lies into alternative facts, and who love a rally Some politicians in Guyana thinking maybe that could wuk fuh dem too. All dem need now is a red cap wid “Mek Guyana Great Again.”
Imagine wah gon happen if dem try it. Press conferences gon tun into wrestling matches. Instead of answering questions, dem gon tell journalists, “Y’all fake news, sit down!” Instead of running de country,
c o m m u n i s t -
shifts the PPP might have r
n i t e l y I t w a s n o t superior strategy or political tenacity that brought the party back to power in 1992, but the changing winds of global politics.
The PPP’s mythology took further hits in the years following its return to power From 1997 to 2008, the party was battered in the streets, its authority challenged not just by political opponents but by w a v e s o f p o l i t i c a l l y m o t i v a t e d v i o l e n c e a n d
criminal insurgency The supposed ‘greatness’ of the party did little to prevent the r e i g n o f t e r r o r t h a t descended upon the people. The PPP and in particular Jagdeo, presided over one of the most violent periods in the country’s history
Even in its most recent return to office, the PPP did not triumph through its own strength. In 2020, after that i n t e r m i n a b l e f i v e - m o n t h wait, the party had virtually given up on being declared the winner of the general and regional elections. It was only because the United States stepped in and called on the APNU+AFC to step aside that the party took office.
The PPP did not storm the gates of power through s h e e r d e t e r m i n a t i o n o r popular support as Jagdeo wants us to believe by recalling the protests of his party that led many of its supporters to be shot with p e l l e t s H e i s o v e rdramatizing the effects of his supporters’ protests. And he fails to mention that during those protests, the party’s s u p p o r t e r s a t t a c k e d a busload of school children.
The PPP waited in limbo until external forces tilted the scales in its favour. And yet, the party continues to peddle the fiction of its indomitable fighting spirit.
But this is the mythmaking style of the PPP, a party that tells its own story, in the way it insists and about i t s o w n i n d i s p e n s a b i l i t y Bharrat Jagdeo has become the modern-day custodian of t h e P P P ’ s s e l fmythologizing tendencies. If Jagan was the architect of the party’s mythology, Jagdeo is its high priest, reciting its tenets with the zeal of a true believer Today, as General Secretary of the PPP, he speaks with the same hubris, extolling the virtues of a p a r t y t h a t h
e everything in its power to c
infallibility
purpose. By painting itself as
any challenge to its rule. For a party that claims to have fought for democracy, it is
unwilling to admit that its record is anything but stellar
A great party does not
greatness. It does not need to rewrite history to suit its narrative, nor does it need to dismiss the contributions of others in the struggle for democracy The PPP, for all its bluster, remains a party trapped in the myths of its own making.
And as long as Jagdeo continues to spin these tales, the party will remain what it has always been: a legend in its own mind, but never in the annals of history
(The views expressed in this article are those of the
opinions of this newspaper.)
dem gon spend de whole day pon social media cussing out critics. And don’t forget de court cases—because a true Trump-style leader cyah finish a term without at least five lawsuits.
But Guyanese done live dis story before. We had nuff strong men who promise de world and lef we with potholes, blackout, and plenty confusion. Strong man politics always start sweet but end up bitter
So maybe, just maybe, is time we break dis cycle. Maybe we need leaders who don’t just flex muscle but actually use dem brain. Maybe we need less big talk and more big ideas. But then again, dis Guyana, and Guyanese love lil drama. Who knows?
Maybe by next election, somebody gon be promising to build a big, beautiful wall—to keep out all de common sense.
And dem boys seh… it gon be de best wall, believe me!
Talk half. Leff half.
The Mohameds in the gunsights
“Unfairly treated” and “ b l o c k e d f r o m d o i n g business” and “not ruling out
a s s a s s i n a t i o n a t t e m p t o n son”. Those were part of the captions from SN and KN on
M a r c h 5 , 2 0 2 4 , a n d
Demerara Waves (March 4),
respectively Mr Nazar “Shell” Mohamed broke his peace during the holy month of Ramadan. I must do the same in this season of Lent.
My thoughts and positions
f o l l o w. I s p e a k a s a concerned citizen, and not as
a n a d v o c a t e f o r M r Mohamed et al. He is far better equipped to do so.
The PPP Government is in a bind. US sanctions are in effect against Mr Mohamed
a n d h i s s o n , a n d t h e i r holdings. The government dare not go against those crippling strictures. Then,
t h e r e i s t h e G u y a n a Constitution, and the right of c i t i z e n s t o w o r k T h e
g o v e r n m e n t d a r e n o t g o against that sacred provision. Or, so I believed. The government seemingly has. There is the recent matter of
A l e g a l challenge would be in order, now appears to be in the making. If in the same boat, I would t
t kind
action. The US sanctions were first announced approx. nine months ago. From all indications, US laws now supersede Guyana laws. One of the questions that has raged locally take this form:
w h y h a s n ' t t h e P P P
G o v e r n m e n t c h a rg e d t h e Mohameds for something, anything? It would help if the Hon. Attorney General, Mr Anil Nandlall, SC would break his silence and do the h o n o u r s w i t h a s t r a i g h t f o r w a r d r e s p o n s e
D u e t o n
n g o n Facebook, excerpts from the independent media form the basis of this writing. Clearly, “ u n f a i r l y t r e a t e d ” a n d “ b l o c k e d f r o m d
b u s i n e s s ” h
v e s o m e substance in them, and merits a s t a t e m e n t f r o m t h e g o v e r n m e n t E s p e c i a l l y
when claims of government's v i o
C o n s t i t u t i o n a r e m a d e
Something is going to have to yield in this situation: the Mohameds (one or the other or both) have to be charged. If not, Mr Mohamed's charge of being unconstitutionally targeted and victimized takes on considerable weight. The PPP Government must have the decency and integrity to charge the people or free them to do business here. Though both decency and integrity are unknown inside t h e P P P ( a s g r o u p o r government), this is where I stand.
Unsurprisingly and not unrelated to the troubles of his family, Mr Mohamed, Snr., took matters into an altogether direction. It is a s i n i s t e
o m e meanings. As captioned in KN, Mr Mohamed is “not ruling assassination attempt on his son.” I believe that Mr Mohamed is on the firmest grounds with that assertion. Though President
Ali may not like it, and Attorney General Nandlall may not find that comforting, i t i s w h e r e t h e P P P Government is, the lengths to which it would possibly go.
To p u r g e i t s e l f o f a n unwanted presence (one that is agitating). Even venture
i n t o t h e u n t h i n k a b l e : e l i m i n a t e a p o t e n t i a l electoral competitor Has
b e e n d o n e b e f o r e h e r e
Again, I assert that Mr Mohamed is not given to flights of fancy, but has his f e e t v e r y m u c h o n t h e ground. He points to the grimness of local reality under the PPP Government. Right in these very pages, I have said it once, I have written it twice, and I have l a i d i t o u t b e f o r e t h e Guyanese people more than b o t h o f t h o s e n u m b e r s
c o m b i n e d T h e P P P Government has manifested i n t h e c l e a r e s t , s h a r p e s t terms, that it will stoop to the lowest to try its hand at character assassination of t h o s e i t h o l d s a s 'undesirables' or 'parasites' or
t h a t t e l l i n g
e u p h e m i s m
“naysayers”. It is but a short step actual assassination those standing in its way Why not? Why not, I had i n s i s t e d a n d i n s i s t a g a i n today, when it is more than a point being made, or an e x p o s u r e o f l e a d e r s h i p failures and more, is laid naked before the world?
W h e n c h a r a c t e r a s s a s s i n a t i o n c o m e s s o easily, is second nature to the PPP Government, then why not the real thing? Why not more than a reputation, why n o t t h e r e m o v a l o f a n obstacle, once and for all?
e t o o t h e r w
a p o n s . Though he may not have fully fathomed it, Mr. Nazar Mohamed may be too close for comfort with his sense of p r o b a b l e a s s a s s i n a t i o n attempt on the life of his son. I t m u s t b e t h e u g l i e s t development for a man who has given so much to the PPP and its leadership. (The v i e w s e x p re s s e d i n t h i s article are those of the a u t h o r a n d d o n o t
After all, there is a whole state apparatus to exonerate it.Unfortunately, it is how far the business of politics and winning has deteriorated in Guyana. To dare to deal in d e m o c r a c y ' s i d e a l s i n Guyana is to deal with a deathlike state. To dip toe into sacred Constitutional waters, in the belief of its h a l l o w e d p r o t e c t i o n s , i s tantamount to taking one's l ife in one's own hand in this country Or, more chillingly and accurately, put in the h a n d s o f t h e P P P Government. It has shown that it has the capabilities and willingness to engage in character assassination via hidden daggers out of its Congress and Cabinet. It is but a short footstep from t h
Commissioner of Information undermining rather than promoting transparency- Chris Ram
...flags lack of accountability for millions received by office
A t t o r n e y - a t - L a w
C h r i s t o p h e r R a m h a s accused the Commissioner
o f I n f o r m a t i o n , J u s t i c e
C h a r l e s R a m s o n o f undermining transparency, through the use of complex language that creates further
c o n f u s i o n r a t h e r t h a n
c l a r i f i e s i s s u e s o f importance, among other issues.
In his recent column, 'Every Man, Woman and C h i l d i n G u y a n a M u s t
Become Oil-Minded' the
L a w y e r h i g h l i g h t e d t h e impact of this barrier to i n f o r m a t i o n i n a n o i l economy
T o p r e f a c e h i s arguments, Ram explained the purpose of the Access to Information Act, passed in 2011. He said, “Guyana's C o n s t i t u t i o n i d e n t i f i e s access to information as a right - not a privilege. Yet, for a decade and more since the Access to Information Act was passed in 2011, this right h a s b e e n t r e a t e d w i t h contempt.”
The Act provides for the
a p p o i n t m e n t o f a
C o m m i s s i o n e r o f Information and the laying of annual reports in the National Assembly, no later than nine months after the end of each year
Ram in his column told readers that the Office of the C o m m i s s i o n e r o f I n f o r m a t i o n ' s o n g o i n g obstructionism reflects more t h a n a q u e s t i o n o f competence, since he views this as a deliberate affront to t r a n s p a r e n c y a n d accountability
He pointed out that last Sunday, a North American N o n - G o v e r n m e n t a l
n c e Network (OGGN) pleaded for information on the taxes the Government of Guyana paid for the oil companies operating in the Stabroek Block. A citizen, Danuta R a d z i k t h e n h i g h l i g h t e d s i m i l a r f r u s t r a t i o n s i n attempting to access public i n f o r m a t i o n f r o m t h e
Environmental Protection
Agency
The Lawyer was keen to note that while these public demands were not made u s i n g t h e A c c e s s t o
I n f o r m a t i o n A c t , t h e y highlight the frustrations and obstructions in obtaining basic information on matters of public interest. According t o h i m , “ T h e s e l e t t e r s underscore how the barriers to information access extend beyond the oil sector to affect various aspects of civil society oversight and citizen engagement.”
Ram does not believe OGGN or Radzik would have had better luck with the information requested using t h e O f f i c e o f t h e
C o m m i s s i o n e r o f
I n f o r m a t i o n I n f a c t , h e detailed his own experience with requesting information from the Commissioner “ I w r o t e t o t h e
C o m m i s s i o n e r ( o n December 6, 2021) what s h o u l d h a v e b e e n a straightforward request for i n f o r m a t i o n u n d
Access to Information Act
, h e advised that his Office would p r o v i d e “ a n a p p r o p r i a t e response”, subject to human and other resources. Acting on the Commissioner's oral advice, I later directed a l
y concerned. Not having had a response for more than a y e a r , I s e n t t h e C o m m i s s i o n e r a f o r m a l request to the Commissioner of Information using the Form set out in the Act, along with a letter pointing out the M i n i s t e r ' s n o n - r e s p o n s e , ” Ram chronicled.
What he received from t h e C o m m i s s i o n e r o f Information, in a letter dated M a y 1 0 , 2 0 2 3 w a s a “ m a s t e r p
evasion”.
The Lawyer argued that rather than providing the
i o n , Justice Ramson, referring to him as Comrade, stated that an applicant "ought not to a r r o g a t e t o h i m s e l f t h e liberty of any ad hominem criticism of his statutory
Govt. to spend $90M to build nursery schools for Bethany, Siriki & Hackney communities
W i t h $ 5 8 b i l l i o n allocated towards education delivery in Region Two this y e a r , t h e R e g i o n a l Democratic Council (RDC) i s p r e p a r i n g t o s p e n d approximately $90 million out of the funds to construct n e w n u r s e r y s c h o o l s a t Bethany, Siriki and Hackney communities.
This is according to an
project is estimated to cost $30 million.
K
accommodated in a section o
building, for example at Bethany Village. Speaking with this newspaper on the new school project for her village, Toshao of Bethany, Ms. Sonia Latchman said, “As Toshao, we are happy to have a nursery school within our village.”
She added that, “Our REO Ms. Susanah Saywak was on an outreach to our village last year and she
benefactor."
He believes that such an a b s u r d e v a s i o n d i r e c t l y undermines the very purpose of the Access to Information Act, noting that he is yet to r e c e i v
requested.
Deep concerns For Ram, a troubling feature is the “phantom-like” n a t u r e o f t h e Commissioner's office. He e x p l a i n e d , “ A l t h o u g h officially under the Office of the President, that office c o u l d n o t p r o v i d e
(Continued on page 55)
usually visit all areas. As such, she visited the primary school which houses both n u r s e r y a n d p r i m a r y students over the years and saw there is a need for a nursery school.”Welcoming the new school building, Toshao Latchman shared that when completed, the school will benefit over 40 nursery pupils. Meanwhile, Minister of E d u c a t i o n , P r i y a Manickchand has repeatedly said that having achieved universal primary education, (Continued on page 13)
Attorney-at-Law, Christopher Ram
Fishermen bawling at sea as they reel in empty seines
Guyanese fishermen are complaining bitterly about their inability to catch fish in the country's waters. The fishermen said that they have been reeling in empty seines since 2020.
Many have voiced their f r u s t r a t i o n t h r o u g h t h e various media but as the situation worsens, they have taken matters into their own hands by posting TikTok videos of their hardships.
One crew posted a video on Friday complaining after they spent four days at sea and caught nothing.
“I never see something like this in me born life,” one of the crew members said while adding, “Ayo watch one (expletive) nah come pon this seine hay.”
The men said that empty seines are out weighing their catch for about three months now
“All them pickney (their children) hungry and suh now,” one fisherman said as he explained that catches are not sufficient to cover fuel costs for their boats.
Salinity is the degree of saltiness of the water
In 2023, a report for one of ExxonMobil's proposed w e l l - c a m p a i g n s f o r t h e Stabroek Block sought to d i s c r e
claim that oil operations is dwindling fish supply
The report had stated that Guyana has seen a declining trend since 2013, two years before the discovery of oil.
One media entity, Oil
Now, had reported that the details of this trend were
Impact Assessment (CIA)
programme
“A we a wuk and a we nah get pay nah fuh seh like a we nah work. This thing a send a we mad now… a mad a we a run now watch,” another fisherman added.
T h e f i s h e r m e n m e n believe that ExxonMobil's o i l o p e r a t i o n o f f s h o r e Guyana might be chasing away the fish.
“All dem time when dem nah a draw oil a we been a ketch a we fish aright and them,” the fisherman said w i t h s u p p o r t f r o m h i s colleagues.
A n o t h e r f i s h e r m a n declared, “A we dese ga rent fuh pay and suh…We collect $100,000 (the cash grant) duh can't even pay the rent when yuh done buy lil ration and suh”.
The government has in the recent times dismissed claims that the oil operation i s c o n t r i b u t i n g t o t h e disappearance of fish from Guyana's waters but the fishermen are not accepting that.
“Eleven years me a wuk a sea now and me neva see something like a this and dem a tell a we that oil nah do fish nothing, ayo watch (shows their empty seines) ayuh get sense, ayo watch”, a fisherman argued.
The fishermen said that they have been complaining for years but their concerns
are falling on deaf ears so they have decided to protest publicly using the various social media platforms so that the masses can see their plight.
The Ministry of Finance in its 2021 mid-year report had claimed that Chemical changes in Guyana's coastal w a t e r s h a v e c a u s e d a s i g n i f i c a n t d e
c
n , specifically Shrimp. It was stated that the significant reduction in the production of white belly shrimp was c a u s e d b y a c h a n g e i n salinity of coastal waters.
Tourism Authority (GTA) said in a press release. O n e i d g e W a l r o n d , M i n i s t e r o f T o u r i s m , Industry, and Commerce, w a s a l s o a w a r d e d t h e PATWA International Award
f o r 2 0 2 5 a s T o u r i s m
M i n i s t e r o f t h e Ye a rEcological Tourism. This is G u y a n a '
d y e a
s e c
n g a w a r d s f r o m PATWA. Speaking on the awards, Minister Walrond said receiving these awards is a proud moment. “With breathtaking attractions like K a i e t e u r , o u r i n t e r i o r
s a v a n n a h s , u n t o u c h e d rainforest, and rare wildlife, we're fortunate to have so m u c h n a t u r a l b e a u t y t o share. What sets us apart is
o u r c o m m i t m e n t t o
p r o t e c t i n g o u r n a t u r a l
a t t r
c o n s e r v a t i o n a n d community-driven efforts, we ensure that every visit
h e l p s p r e s e r v e o u r environment and supports local communities. We are proud to share our country with the world and look forward to continuing to lead the way in responsible tourism,” the minister is quoted in the GTA press release as saying The awards were won at the 25th and 2025 editions of the PATWA World Tourism & Aviation Leaders' Summit a n d t h e P A T W A International Travel Awards at ITB, Berlin, on March 5th, 2 0 2 5 T h e P a c
i c A r e a Travel Writers Association (PATWA) is a non-profit, n o n - g o v e r n m e n t , professional, international media organisation founded in 1999. PATWA supports the sustainable development and growth of destinations, travel, tourism, hospitality, a
From page 3 his charitable work, and that is causing fear in the political arena. The government is seeing the love, the support, the admiration that Guyanese from all walks of life are throwing behind this young man for simply lending a helping hand where it is most needed, and the love of the p e o p l e , t h e r e s p o n s e o f Guyanese to this young man is causing great fear in the political spectrum, more so the government.”
Lall told listeners of his
radio programme that his experience has thought him that too much popularity, influence and respect can threaten the “sweet life in office” for politicians, hence he believes they would leave no stone unturned to “crush” such a person.
C o n s e q u e n t l y , t h e newspaper Publisher made it clear, “This isn't about taxes. This isn't about justice. This is about power and anyone who climbing towards that stage, will be chopped down. The whole of Guyana knows that.”
He continued, “They see the support; they see the love he is receiving from the citizens and they see his influence growing and, in their minds, if he ever throws his hat into the political ring, both of them, the PPP and PNC are in trouble. So, what do they do? They move to crush him before he even gets there.” Lall was keen to note that all State resources are being deployed against the f amily, w ith eff o r ts e v e n being made to smear the young man's name through
conference told reporters that anyone who does business with the Mohameds' can be sanctioned by the U.S. Jagdeo said, “It's a gross misrepresentation to claim, as he (Nazar Mohamed) did, that it's only American companies that could face sanctions if t h e y a s s o c i a t e w i t h t h e Mohamed's.” According to him, this is clearly outlined in the statement issued by the U.S. Jagdeo quoted a section of the statement which outlines, “ I n a d d i t i o n , f i n a n c i a l institutions and other persons t h a t e n g a g e i n c e r t a i n transactions or activities with the sanctioned entities and i n d i v i d u a l s m a y e x p o s e themselves to sanctions or be subject to an enforcement
a c t i o n … t h e p r o h i b i t i o n s include the making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods or services by, to or for the benefit of any designated person.”
We i g h i n g i n J a g d e o ' s comments, Lall pointed to the d u p l i c i t y o f g o v e r n m e n t c h o o s i n g n o t t o c o n d u c t business with the Mohameds'
E
M
continue to loot the country of billions in taxes.
The oil deal signed by the government of Guyana in 2016 waives the payment of c o r p o r a t e t a x e s b y t h e company Be that as it may, E x x o n M o b i l G u y a n a i s required to pay taxes on its profits earned here to the g o
Guyana has so far given up over US$10B in taxes since it b e g a n p r o d u c i n g o i l i n December 2019.
The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has issued
$900,801,201 to Azruddin
compliance status of several high-end vehicles he owns.
The Revenue Authority
discrepancies in declared values and breaches of tax exemption conditions that prompted the authority to seek additional payments.
In separate letters dated March 4, 2025, GRA's Law
outlined the findings and financial obligations for the owners of a 2021 Toyota L
, a 2 0 2 0 Lamborghini Roadster, and a 2020 Ferrari 488.
According to GRA, the d
y o t a L a n d Cruisers—PAB 3000 and
PAB 4000—were found to be inconsistent with similar vehicles. Consequently, the values were adjusted, and the owners were notified t h a t e a c h v e h i c l e n o w carries an additional tax liability of $24,641,272.
“The findings of the investigation revealed that t h e d e c l a r e d v a l u e i s inconsistent with values of similar vehicles with the same specifications,” GRA stated in one of the letters.
“As such, there are reasons t o d o u b t t h e t r u t h a n d
r s s t a t e d I n a n o t h e r case, a 2020 Lamborghini Roadster with registration PZZ 4000 was also found to h a v e a n u n d e r v a l u e d declaration. GRA has now a d j u s t e d i t s v a l u e a n d imposed additional taxes amounting to $371,775,168.
Additionally, GRA said t h a t i t l a u n c h e d a n investigation into a tax-
exempt Ferrari 488 owned
b y a r e - m i g r a n t T h e authority found that the owner failed to meet the required residency period, did not present the vehicle for periodic checks, and was not using it as intended under the terms of the exemption. As a result, the G R A i s d e m a n d i n g t h e repayment of $479,743,489 in foregone taxes.
“As a result, you are required to show cause why t h e R e v e n u e A
foregone Customs Duty and Taxes,” one of the letters stated.
affected parties 14 days to either pay the outstanding
documentation proving the
including vehicle seizures.
“In the event you fail to provide such justifications or effect payment of the applicable taxes within the stipulated timeframe, the
Authority warned.
From page 11
the intention now is to achieve u n i v e r s a l n u r s e r y a n d secondary education. “What universal means, it means all over. So, all over Guyana, we want nursery aged children to be able to access nursery schools and nursery education in Guyana is not compulsory as yet but we have registered the highest enrollment in the Commonwealth Caribbean at more than 85 percent of our nursery age cohort attending nursery school, ” she said previously
The minister added that where there is a gap, it would be where there are not enough schools and that is mostly in the hinterland regions.
Noting the importance of
commissioning ceremony for
Nursery last year, stated that if n
children who cannot read at their grade level, then the entire system feels that.
“They go into Grade One and struggle, to Grade Two and struggle, reach Grade Six and can't write a single word on the NGSA paper, and so, this is the level where we're
foundation they need,” she said.Efforts are being made to construct and in other cases
learners.
S
Azruddin Mohamed stands near one of his luxury vehicles
IMF praises government for spending out of oil money
T h e I n t e r n a t i o n a l Monetary Fund (IMF) has praised the Government of Guyana for the rate at which it is spending the oil money
c a l l i n g i t a n e n h a n c e d management of the fund.
E a r l y l a s t y e a r, t h e
G o v e r n m e n t o f G u y a n a
m o v e d t o t h e N a t i o n a l
Assembly to amend the
N a t u r a l R e s o u r c e F u n d (NRF) Act, to allow for more withdrawals. The decision
w a s m e t w i t h f i r m
o b
e c
media.
I n s p i t e o f p u b l i c criticisms, the IMF in its Staff Concluding Statement
o f t h e 2 0 2 5 A r t i c l e I V Mission for Guyana said that g i v e n t h e c o u n t r y ' s development and investment needs the fiscal policy stance is appropriate at this stage, and the fiscal deficits should
gradually close over the medium term.
The organization is of the view that the increase of the withdrawal ceiling early last year provided the room for s u b s t a n t i a l e x p a n s i o n o f capital expenditure which h a d r e a c h e d o v e r 1 2 ½ percent of gross domestic product (GDP) for that year T h e I M F
recommending a gradual closing of the overall fiscal d e f i c i t b y 2 0 3 1 , w h i c h should then be followed by a narrowing of the “non-oil p
lifespan of oil reserves to the
a
equity and preserving fiscal a n d m a c r o e c o n o m i c sustainability.”
F u r t h e r m o r e , “ I m p l e m e n t i n g a c o m p r e h e n s i v e m e d i u mterm fiscal framework with an explicit anchor and an operational target, further
m o d e r n i z i n g p u b l i c
f i n a n c i a l m a n a g e m e n t
s y s t e m s , a n d c o n d u c t i n g regular expenditure reviews
t o c o n t i n u a l l y a s s e s s s p e n d i n g e ff i c i e n c y a n d effectiveness in reaching the SDGs will also help further strengthen fiscal discipline a n d t r a n s p a r e n c y, ” t h e organization said. The IMF views the way the NRF is currently being handled as an advancement in enhanced governance and m o d e r n i z a t i o n t o t h e operation
f the public sector This conclusion was d r a w n f r o m t h e P u b l i c A
e Annual Report and the NFR R e p o r t w h i c h w e r e presented for the fiscal year 2 0 2 3 t o t h e N a t i o n a l Assembly, as well as the “ r
revenues, as mandated by law, (which) are published in the Offic
d presented to the National Assembly, and the Bank of Guyana publish monthly and q
performance.”
Hence, the IMF believes that Guyanese authorities h
capacity a more modern approach.
I n S e p t e m b e r 2 0 2 4 ,
Kaieteur News reported that O p p o s i t i o n M e m b e r o f
Parliament and Chairman of t h e P u b l i c A c c o u n t s Committee (PAC) Jermaine
F i g u e i r a c a l l e d f o r transparency in the use of the country's oil funds, citing the n e e d f o r p o s s i b l e amendments to the NRF Act.
H e w a s a t t h e t i m e commenting on the sidelines at an event held at the public b u i l d i n g s f o l l o w i n g a n e x p l a n a t i o n g i v e n b y
A u d i t o r G e n e r a l ( A G )
Deodat Sharma regarding the use of oil money in the Budget, in response to a q u e s t i o n p o s e d b y t h i s publication.
“ I t h i n k t h e A u d i t o r
General's response was more of a general nature, but we r e q u i r e m o r e s p e c i f i c s because the Act is very clear with regards to how those funds should be spent and if you just lump sum, it into the Consolidated Fund, we need to know definitely of those funds that were transferred into the consolidated fund that are they being used for the specific purposes with regards to what the Act speaks to,” Figueira said.
The Parliamentarian said the NRF Act may require a m e n d m e n t s t o j u s t i f y transfers to the Consolidated
Fund for spending across the b o a r d , r a t h e r t h a n f o r specific purposes outlined in the Act. These amendments according to him are crucial to ensure there is absolute conformity with the legal requirements.
In January, during the Budget 2025 debates another
(LCDS), they government had blatantly refused to do the same for the hundreds of billions withdrawn from the NRF
T
Holder told the House, “Mr Speaker, they accounted to the Norwegians for their LCDS money but when it comes to our oil money, the PPP continues to violate their own law which they brought to this very House and approved by themselves in December 2021.”
Finance, Dr Ashni Singh had a detailed account for every dollar spent that was received from Norway for
which governs the funds m
withdrawals from the Fund
(Continued on page 53)
3 more women receive $1.5M in business grants from First L ady
Three women are the recipients of three business grants totaling $1,500,000 to fund the expansion of their small businesses, the Office of the First Lady disclosed on Saturday
The grants were handed over to 31-year-old Saudia
E d g h i l l o f B u x t o n , E a s t Coast Demerara (ECD), 36year-old Junice Welcome of K u r u K u r u r u , S o e s d y k eLinden Highway and 46y e a r- o l d B e n a O u t a r o f Mahaicony, ECD.
Ms. Outar specializes in the distribution of agroc h e m i c a l s , w h i l e M s Welcome runs a day care
facility, and Ms Edghill produces patriotic gift items.
The three women were participants in the Cherie
B l a i r F o u n d a t i o n f o r W o m e n ' s H e r V e n t u r e
programme and Road to Growth training which is a p l a t f o r m t h a t p r o v i d e s
w o m e n w i t h b u s i n e s s development training.
This year, International Wo m e n ' s D a y i s b e i n g observed under the theme
“ A c c e l e r a t e A c t i o n ” a n d according to First Lady Arya Ali, this is exactly what she intends to use her office to do.
“ A c c e l e r a t i n g a c t i o n means speeding up what we do to achieve gender parity, and part of that involves making direct investments in the lives of women to ensure they are empowered.
We've seen a spate of d o m e s t i c v i o l e n c e c a s e s , some of which have ended in murder, and one of the root causes is that many of our women are not economically e m p o w e r e d . S o , w e a r e w o r k i n g a g g r e s s i v e l y t o change that,” Mrs. Ali stated.
T h e F i r s t L a d y a l s o e x p l a i n e d t h a t w h i l e financial support is being provided to the women for their businesses, technical a s s i s t a n c e w i l l a l s o b e offered for them to scale and e x p a n d t h e i r b u s i n e s s e s t h r o u g h s u p p o r t f r o m business coaches Mr Keon S m i t h a n d M s U p a s n a Mudlier of ActionCOACH.
The First Lady also used the opportunity to encourage the women to extend similar support to other women who may seek employment or guidance in starting their own businesses.
“I hope that this little g e s t u r e i n s p i r e s y o u t o support other women who may need employment or may seek guidance from you t o s t a r t t h e i r o w n l i t t l e b u s i n e s s W e h a v e a responsibility to each other as women and I want to remind you that we rise by lifting others,” she added.
T h e t h r e e w o m e n expressed gratitude for the support provided and made a commitment to the First Lady that they would work diligently to ensure their ventures were successful T h e i r p r o g r e s s w i l l b e assessed periodically by the coaches.
Apart from the business g r a n
training, while another 45 in Region Two have received training in cosmetology, and 45 women who were victims of domestic violence have b e e n t r a i n e d t h r o u g h a p
Office of the First Lady and Carnegie School of Home Economics (CSHE).
First female to hold a Flight Dispatcher's License at the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Felesha Johnson
Founder and owner of Yandara's Glam Spa, Yandara Sophia Singh
one can experience when visiting Yandra's Glam Spa.
If Guyana's President Ali is the “Zelensk y of the Caribbean”,who is the Putin?
By Sir Ronald Sanders
In the latest round of b a r b s w i t h w h i c h
V e n e z u e l a h a s
r e s p o n d e d t o e v e n t s surrounding its claim to the Essequibo region of Guyana, Guyana's President, Irfaan Ali, was described as “the Zelensky of the Caribbean.”
This characterization begs the question: If Ali is the “ Z e l e n s k y o f t h e Caribbean,” then who is the “Putin”?
H o w e v e r, p o s i n g a n d
a n s w e r i n g t h a t l a t t e r question is as unhelpful to
r e s o l v i n g t h e b o r d e r controversy peacefully as is
d e s c r i b i n g A l i a s “Zelensky.”
It is far more constructive to focus on facts and to work toward a peaceful solution to
Ve n e z u e l a ' s c l a i m s i n accordance with the UN Charter and international law
The most recent incident that inflamed the situation between the two countries occurred on 1 March 2025, when a Venezuelan military
v e s s e l a p p r o a c h e d a n d
a c c o s t e d F l o a t i n g
P r o d u c t i o n S t o r a g e a n d
O f f l o a d i n g ( F P S O ) platforms, operated by the US company Exxon, in an area that Guyana considers i t s E x c l u s i v e E c o n o m i c Zone (EEZ).
It is important to note that, because of the land
boundary contention still b e f o r e t h e I n t e r n a t i o n a l
C o u r t o f J u s t i c e ( I C J ) , Guyana and Venezuela have not yet formally delimited their maritime boundaries.
Both countries claim the waters in question. However, under a December 2023 Order of the ICJ, Guyana has administrative control over
t h e d i s p u t e d t e r r i t o r y pending the Court's final judgment.
Consequently, Guyana is entitled to authorize lawful
a c t i v i t i e s i n t h e E E Z , including those undertaken
b y t h e F P S O p l a t f o r m s operated by Exxon.
W h i l e t h e r i g h t o f n a v i g a t i o n t h r o u g h
c o n t e s t e d w a t e r s i s recognized under customary international law, that right d o e s n o t e x t e n d t o confronting or intimidating entities engaged in legally a u t h o r i z e d a c t i v i t y
Although the Venezuelan patrol boat did not use force, its actions arguably violated the spirit of both the ICJ's 1 December 2023 Order and Clauses 1 and 6 of the Argyle
A g r e e m e n t , w h i c h c o l l e c t i v e l y d e m a n d t h a t neither side take steps that might aggravate or extend the dispute.
H e n c e , i n s t e a d o f exploring the implications of who is a “Zelensky” or a “Putin” in this matter, it is far more constructive for the government and peoples of both countries to maintain their focus on the arbitration of the controversy before the ICJ. At the same time, they should abide by the terms of “The Joint Declaration of Argyle for Dialogue and P e a c e ” ( t h e A r g y l e
A g r e e m e n t ) , w h i c h t h e y
s i g n e d o n 1 4 D e c e m b e r 2023. In adhering to the Argyle
A g r e e m e n t , Ve n e z u e l a
s h o u l d r e c a l l C l a u s e 1 , which states that both parties a g r e e d “ d i r e c t l y o r indirectly” not to threaten or u s e f o r c e u n d e r a n y circumstances, and Clause 6, which states that both parties committed to “refrain from escalating any conflict or disagreement arising from any controversy between them.”
I n t h i s r e g a r d , t h e
Ve n e z u e l a n a u t h o r i t i e s should reflect on whether taking over Ankoko Island (divided between the two c o u n t r i e s ) a n d p l a c i n g
m i l i t a r y a s s e t s o n i t constitutes a threat of the use
o f f o r c e . C o n s i d e r a t i o n
m i g h t a l s o b e g i v e n t o Venezuela's declared intent to hold local elections on 27
A p r i l 2 0 2 5 i n G u y a n a ' s Essequibo region, asserting it as “Guayana-Esequiba,” complete with a parallel g o v e r n a n c e s t r u c t u r e a n
a c t i o n t h a t d i r e c t l y c h a l l e n g e s G u y a n a ' s sovereignty
T h e l e a d e r s o f t h e
C a r i b b e a n C o m m u n i t y (CARICOM) countries have p u b l i c l y d e s c r i b e d t h e s e p l a n s a b r e a c h o f international norms and of t h e I C J ' s p r o v i s i o n a l
m e a s u r e s I m p o r t a n t l y , CARICOM has not forcibly inserted itself into the border
i s s u e I n s t e a d , b o t h t h e governments of Venezuela a n d G u y a n a s o l i c i t
CARICOM's mediating role, and to the credit of its leaders and the Secretariat's staff, the organization has tried to play a steadying role.
I t i s a l l t h e m o r e unfortunate, therefore, that t h e V e n e z u e l a n V i c e
President labelled officials
o f t h e C A R I C O M
Secretariat as “third-rank bureaucrats of CARICOM, who act behind the backs of H e a d s o f G o v e r n m e n t ”
Anyone who knows how the Secretariat operates would confirm that it issues no public statement without the u n a n i m o u s s u p p o r t o f CARICOM governments.
Following the 1 March i n c i d e n t i n v o l v i n g t h e Venezuelan military vessel and the FPSOs, Guyana's President reported the matter to the Interlocutors of the Argyle Agreement, seeking “ a p p r o p r i a t e ” a c
n I n r e s p o n s e a n d w h i l e affirming in a 1 March 2025
s t a t e m e n t t h a t “ T h e Essequibo is and will remain a n i n s e p a
b l e p a r t o f V e n e z u e l a ” t h e V e n e z u e l a n
peaceful dialogue.
Thus, President Nicolás M
P r e s i d e n t A l i u n d e r t h e chairmanship of the Argyle Interlocutors.
For his part, while stating t h a t h e r e m a i n s “ f u l l y c o m m i t t e d t o d i a l o g u e , particularly when it serves to reinforce international law and the peaceful resolution of disputes, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations,” President Ali proposed a preparatory meeting of the two countries' foreign ministers.
President Ali's proposal is wise—not only because it a l l o w s t i m e t o d i f f u s e heightened emotions ignited by recent events, but also because it permits careful p r e p a r a t i o n f o r s u c h a n important encounter
Ultimately, the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean have committed
themselves to remain a Zone of Peace.
By respecting the ICJ's j u d g m e n t o n t h e b o r d e r c o n t e n t i o n , o n c e i t i s delivered, and the guiding principles of international law, Guyana and Venezuela can resolve their differences to the benefit of their peoples and regional stability
A lasting solution lies not in epithets over who is the “Caribbean Zelensky” or “Putin,” but in deference to
the peace and prosperity of a l l n
depend.
( T h
Ambassador to the US and t
Institute of Commonwealth Studies, London University
Sir Ronald Sanders
Mavado's son's murder conviction
quashed by Court of Appeal
Ja m a i c a O b s e r v e r - - T h e C o u r t o f A p p e a l h a s q u a s h e d t h e m u r d e r
c o n v i c t i o n s a n d s e n t e n c e s o f
Dantay Brooks, son of dancehall entertainer David 'Mavado' Brooks, and his co-accused, Andre Hinds.
The decision was handed down on Friday morning. “We respect the judicial process at all levels and are pleased that the Court of Appeal has ruled in our favor
This decision reaffirms the merits of our case and underscores the important legal principles at stake,” Tamika Harris, one of the attorneys-at-law who represented Brooks during the initial trial, told Observer Online in a statement.
The court heard the appeal on December 10 and 11 last year and later reserved judgment. “While the journey through the courts has b e e n c h a l l e n g i n g , I r e m a i n e d hopeful. I appreciate the Court of Appeal's careful consideration of the matter and its ruling. We remain dedicated to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that our client's
Mavado and Dantay Brooks
protected,” Harris said.
Oswest Senior-Smith and Harris had represented Brooks during the initial murder trial.
Brooks was ordered to serve 22 years before becoming eligible for parole. Hinds was also sentenced to life imprisonment. He was ordered to serve 17 years before becoming eligible for parole.
Both were also sentenced to 15 years behind bars for arson.
Attorney Oswest Senior-Smith,
who repr
appeal, said verdicts of acquittal were entered for both men on Friday He reserved comment on the case until the written decision h
disseminated.
“I want to read and digest it properly first before commenting,”
Online
“I know that certain grounds were common to both appelants as
it pertains to the directions that the trial judge gave and the credibility of the witness. I would like to see the written decision first so I can comment in a more informed way Kudos to the team, a lot of hard work went into the process,” he s
m a r Robinson represented Hinds at the
were several grounds of appeal, including on the evidence of visual and voice identification.
Sunday
Guyana will not allow Venezuela to threaten sovereignty, territorial integrity –President Ali says G u y a n a o n S a t u r d a y made it clear that it will not
a l l o w Ve n e z u e l a n o r i t s president Nicholas Maduro to threaten its sovereignty or territorial integrity amid an
incursion of the country's
S t a b r o e k B l o c k l o c a t e d offshore.
A n a r m e d Ve n e z u e l a n patrol ship, Guaiquerí (PO
1 1 ) , i l l e g a l l y e n t e r e d
G u y a n a ' s s h o r e s a r o u n d
0 7 : 0 0 h o n S a t u r d a y , t h r e a t e n i n g E x x o n M o b i l
G u y a n a ' s F l o a t i n g
P r o d u c t i o n S t o r a g e Offloading (FPSO) vessel,
Liza Prosperity, President Irfaan Ali said during a live statement from State House.
“The (Venezuelan) patrol Vessel transmitted a radio message declaring what it
t e r m e d “ d i s p u t e d international waters” before continuing its course in a
s o u t h We s t e r l y d i r e c t i o n
t o w a r d s o t h e r F P S O s , ”
P r e s i d e n t A l i s a i d w h i l e making it clear that all of
G u y a n a ' s a s s e t s a n d t h e FPSO are lawfully operating w i t h i n G u y a n a ' s o w n Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
“Let me be unequivocal,
G u y a n a ' s M a r i t i m e
boundaries are recognised under international [law] and this incursion is a matter of grave concern, ” President Ali added.
The Stabroek Block is being operated by U.S. oil giant ExxonMobil Guyana and its partners and contains approximately 11.6B barrels of oil.
P r e s i d e n t A l i m a d e i t clear that his government is addressing the situation with seriousness and has already s u m m o n e d Ve n e z u e l a ' s A m b a s s a d o r t o G u y a n a , Carlos Perez, to protest this latest act of aggression. A formal protest will also be m a d e i n C a r a c a s b y Guyana's Embassy there.
G u y a n a h a s a l s o informed its partners, the
U n i t e d S t a t e s ( U S ) , t h e
U n i t e d K i n g d o m ( U K ) , France, Regional Security
S y s t e m ( R S S ) , a n d t h e C a r i b b e a n C o m m u n i t y (CARICOM), and they have
a l l r e s p o n d e d p o s i t i v e l y, assured President Ali.
“ A n d w e c o n t i n u e t o work with other neighbours, Brazil, at the military level
and at the level of the State,” the president stated.
P r e s i d e n t A l i m a d e i t clear that Guyana is firmly c o m m i t t e d t o t h e r u l e o f international law, to peaceful resolution of controversies, a n d t o t h e p o w e r o f diplomacy
“But, make no mistake of it: fortified by the strong voices and resolute support of our international partners, G u y a n a w i l l n o t a l l o w
Maduro and Venezuela to t h r e a t e n o r v i o l a t e o u r
sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he stated.
The head-of-state said Guyana appreciates “greatly the international solidarity and unwavering support that have been extended to us by our international partners on this matter.”
“We will remain in close contact with our partners in p r o t e c t i n g G u y a n a ' s i n t e r e s t s a n d m a i n t a i n i n g p e a c e i n o u r R e g i o n , ” President Ali said.
Meanwhile, he said that t h e C h a i r o f C A R I C O M , Mia Amor Motley, is being actively engaged along with S t V i n c e n t a n d t h e Grenadine's Prime Minister, Ralph Gonsalves who served in part as the intermediary for the signing of the Argyle Agreement.
“I have already spoken to the Leader of the Opposition (Aubrey Norton) and briefed h i m o n t h e i n i t i a l circumstances. Later today, as we have greater details, the Leader of the Opposition and I will be meeting so that he can be fully briefed and updated on this matter,” Ali said.
G u y a n a a l s o p l a n s t o i n f o r m t h e I n t e r n a t i o n a l Court of Justice (ICJ) of the i n c i d e n t , a l o n g w i t h t h e Secretary General of United N a t i o n s a n d t h e Organisation of American States (OAS) member states.
GDF deploys assets Meanwhile, Guyana has since deployed air assets in i t s E E Z f o l l o w i n g t h e Venezuelan incursion in the S t a b r o e k B l o c k o f f s h o r e Guyana.
T h e G u y a n a D e f e n c e Force (GDF) Coast Guards will also be deployed, and the National Defence Board h a s b e e n m e e t i n g periodically on the matter
In a statement, the GDF
s a i d i t h a s o b s e r v e d t h e presence of the Venezuelan v e s s e l i n t h e E E Z a n d
“ r e m a i n s v i g i l a n t i n m o n i t o r i n g a l l a
within our maritime domain
Guyana.”
Further, the GDF said its security protocol remains in place as “we continue to c o o r d i n a t e , m o b i l i z e a n d d e p l o y t h e r e l e v a n t r e s o u r c e s t o e n s u r e a mea
response to developments in our waters.”
“ T h e G D F , i n c o l l a b o r a t i o n w i t h o u r partners, continues to assess the security implications of t h i s d e
maintaining the stability of
n g
“ r e m a i n o u r u t m o s t priority”.
“ W e r e a f f i r m o u r dedication to the defence of Guyana's air, land and sea domain,” the Force said.
Venezuela's latest act of aggression comes just days
a f t e r t h e D o n a l d T r u m p administration cancelled a Biden-era licence that had a l l o w e d U S c o m p a n y Chevron to sell hydrocarbon products from its operations in Venezuela.
Guyana and Venezuela are presently before the ICJ in a territorial controversy o v e r t h e m i n e r a l - r i c h Essequibo, an area that is a l m o s t t w o - t h i r d s o f t h e country
M e a n w h i l e , i n a
s t a t e m e n t o f i t s o w n , Venezuela has called for the immediate convening of the
A r g y l e A g r e e m e n t
m e c h a n i s m f o r a p a t h o f peaceful settlement of the c o n t r o v e r s y H o w e v e r , despite its call for peace, Ve n e z u e l a c o n t i n u e s t o falsely and illegally claim
s o v e r e i g n t y o v e r t h e Essequibo.
'Remove your vessel from Guyana's water' – CARICOM
tells Venezuela …as US threatens “consequences” for further provocation
T h e C a r i b b e a n
C o m m u n i t y ( C A R I C O M ) has issued a stern warning to Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro regime to urgently remove
i t s m i l i t a r y v e s s e l t h a t invaded Guyana's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), on Saturday morning.
T h e U n i t e d S t a t e s
government also issued a strong statement threatening c o n s e q u e n c e s s h o u l d
Ve n e z u e l a c o n t i n u e i t s provocation.
A r o u n d 0 7 : 0 0 h , a
Ve n e z u e l a n a r m e d v e s s e l entered Guyana's waters and a p p r o a c h e d E x x o n M o b i l
G u y a n a ' s F l o a t i n g
P r o d u c t i o n S t o r a g e a n d Offloading (FPSO) platform
– P r o s p e r i t y – w h i c h i s operating in Guyana's oilr i c h S t a b r o e k B l o c k T h e
Venezuelan vessel radioed the FPSO platform stating that it was operating in what i t t e r m e d “ d i s p u t e d international waters” before c o n t i n u i n g i t s c o u r s e
t o w a r d s o t h e r F P S O s operating in the oil block. President Irfaan Ali, in a statement, underscored t h a t w h i l e G u y a n a i s firmly committed to the rule of international law, to peaceful resolution of controversies, and to the p o w e r o f d i p l o m a c y ,
“Guyana will not allow Maduro and Venezuela to t h r e a t e n o r v i o l a t e o u r sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
CARICOM demands
i m m e d i a t e r e m o v a l o f
Venezuelan vessel
“CARICOM calls on
Ve n e z u e l a t o o r d e r t h e
u r g e n t r e m o v a l o f t h e
v e s s e l f r o m G u y a n a ' s
w a t e r s a n d f u r t h e r, t o
r e f r a i n f r o m e n g a g i n g with the FPSO platforms, as has been reported,” the regional body stated on Saturday evening.
CARICOM reiterated its unwavering support for t h e s o v e r e i g n t y a n d
t e r r i t o r i a l i n t e g r i t y o f
G u y a n a T h e b o d y reminded that such acts of a g g r e s s i o n a n d provocation are contrary to international law and t h e 2 0 2 3 A r g y l e
D e c l a r a t i o n , w h i c h Guyana and Venezuela are
b o u n d b y , t o a v o i d
u n n e c e s s a r y confrontational actions.
Labeling Venezuela's
a c t i o n a s p r o v o c a t i o n , CARICOM further stated
t h a t s u c h a m o v e r u n s
c o u n t e r t o t h e a g r e e d
c o m m i t m e n t o f
C A R I C O M a n d t h e
C o m m u n i t y o f L a t i n American and Caribbean
States (CELAC) to ensure that the Caribbean region remains a Zone of Peace.
C A R I C O M o u t l i n e d that it is critical that there be a peaceful resolution of the border controversy as is expected under the case that is pending before the I n t e r n a t i o n a l C o u r t o f Justice (ICJ).
“What is required now, m o r e t h a n e v e r , i s patience, calm and nonp r o v o c a t i o n , o n b o t h s i d e s A s w a s c o n t e m p l a t e d i n t
v e r s y , r e m a i n s entirely possible without any acts of provocation or aggression,” CARICOM said.
U.S. issues strong warning to Venezuela
The U.S. Department
o
Affairs, in a post on X (
Maduro regime.
T
Venezuelan naval vessels threatening the FPSO unit is unacceptable and
clear
(Continued on page 23)
A screengrab of the Venezuelan military patrol vessel that invaded Guyana's EEZ on Saturday. (Guyana will not allow)
United States Secretary of State, Marco Rubio
CARICOM Chair, Mia Mottley
From page 22
provocation will result in c o n s e q u e n c e s f o r t h e Maduro regime. The United States reaffirms its support
f o r G u y a n a ' s t e r r i t o r i a l
i n t e g r i t y a n d t h e 1 8 9 9 arbitral award,” it was stated.
Statement from the OAS
G e n e r a l S e c r e t a r i a t o n Venezuelan threats
T h e O r g a n i z a t i o n o f
A m e r i c a n S t a t e s ( O A S ) unequivocally condemned the recent actions of the Venezuelan naval vessels
threatening ExxonMobil's FPSO units operating within
G u y a n a ' s i n t e r n a t i o n a l l y r e c o g n i z e d m a r i t i m e territory
General Secretariat Luis Almagro stated, “Such acts of intimidation constitute a c l e a r v i o l a t i o n o f international law, undermine
r e g i o n a l s t a b i l i t y, a n d threaten the principles of p e a c e f u l c o e x i s t e n c e between nations.”
Additionally, the OAS called on the international
c o m m u n i t y t o r e m a i n vigilant, warning that “Any attempt to use coercion or force to alter established borders is unacceptable and contrary to the fundamental p r i n c i p l e s o f t h e O A S
Charter and international law in general.”
Liberty and Democracy Group rejects Venezuelan incursion
T h e L i b e r t y a n d Democracy Group in their s t a t e m e n t r e j e c t e d t h e incursion of a Venezuelan m i l i t a r y v e s s e l i n t o t h e waters of the Essequibo.
T h e s t a t e m e n t n o t e d , “This act constitutes an unacceptable violation of Guyanese sovereignty and a challenge to international law that must be firmly condemned.”
Highlighting President
Ali's response, the group
s a i d , “ T h e P r e s i d e n t o f
G u y a n a , I r f a a n A l i , h a s c l e a r l y u n d e r s c o r e d t h e gravity of this situation and reaffirmed his commitment to defending his country's territorial integrity.”
T h e s t a t e m e n t a l s o accused the Maduro regime o f a t t e m p t i n g t o s e i z e Guyana's energy wealth. It was stated, “The Liberty and Democracy Group calls on the international community
t o u p h o l d G u y a n a ' s sovereignty, ensuring that it is not usurped by Nicolás
M a d u r o ' s d i c t a t o r s h i p , which seeks to seize the energy wealth of a growing nation with the potential to become a global model for development.”
P a r a g u a y c o n d e m n s Venezuela's actions
In a translated post on X, P a r a g u a y ' s g
c o n d
Ve n e
incursion and reaffirmed its support for Guyana. The statement read, “Paraguay condemns the invasion of Guyana's maritime territory by the naval forces of the Maduro regime and ratifies its support for the people and government of Guyana in the r e s p e c t o f i t s t e r r i t o r i a l integrity.”
AFC condemns Venezuela's barefaced show of force
The Alliance For Change (AFC) has also condemned Ve n e z u e l a ' s “ b a r e f a c e d show of force.” The AFC in a statement said, “There is absolutely no doubt that the area where the Liza offshore well, and the supporting vessels and infrastructure lie, are well within Guyana's t e r r i t o r i a l w a t e r s a n d Exclusive Economic Zone.”
The party further stated, “Just a few short days ago, our soldiers were ambushed, and today, the navy patrol boat was used to intimidate and threaten those on the Liza Prosperity This lawless and reckless behaviour must be called out for what it is. It will be confronted.”
G C C I c o n d e m n s Venezuela's provocation
F o r t h e i r p a r t , t h e
Georgetown Chamber of C o m m e r c e a n d I n d u s t r y (GCCI) strongly condemned Venezuela's incursion into Guyana's EEZ labeling it a direct threat to the country's sovereignty
“ T h i s t h r e a t t o o u r country's sovereign territory must be rejected and such acts of aggression must not be allowed to continue with i m p u n i t y, ” t h e C h a m b e r stated.
N o t a b l y , t h e G C C I reaffirmed its support for the G o v e r n m e n t o f G u y a n a , declaring, “The Essequibo region belongs to Guyana, and the Chamber affirms that it is Guyana's right to occupy its 83,000 square miles and EEZ.”
P S C C o n d e m n s Venezuela's incursion, calls f o r r e s p e c t o f G u
international Law
In their statement, issued on Saturday night, Guyana's Private Sector Commission (PSC) strongly condemns Venezuela's incursion and
directly violates Guyana's
threatens regional peace and stability
“
Government and people of Guyana and fully supports the measures taken to engage international partners,” the body said.
F u r t h e r , t h e P S C expressed its gratitude to the international community for standing firmly with Guyana and for their commitment to upholding international law and regional security
They underscored that maintaining this area as a zone of peace, in accordance to the Argyle Agreement,
e n d a n g e r s t h e l a w f u l operations of vessels within G u y a n a ' s i n t e r n a t i o n a l l y recognized territorial. The p r o t e c t i o n o f m a r i t i m e routes and offshore assets is p a r a m o u n t f o r e c o n o m i c stability, and any hostile actions jeopardizing these must be strongly opposed,” it was underscored.
F u r t h e r t h e S h i p p i n g
A s s o c i a t i o n u r g e d
Ve n e z u e l a t o r e s p e c t Guyana's sovereignty and adhere to peaceful dispute
r e s o l u t i o n m e c h a n i s m s
r a t h e r t h a n r e s o r t i n g t o
i n t i m i d a t i o n t a c t i c s t h a t threaten regional stability
“We stand in full support of all efforts to ensure the s a f e t y o f m a r i t i m e operations within Guyana's w a t e r s a n d c a l l o n i n t e r n a t i o n a l m a r i t i m e
o rg a n i z a t i o n s a n d a l l i e d nations to remain vigilant in safeguarding the security of l a w f u l c o m m e r c i a l activities,” it was stated.
Monday
'Guyana is the place to invest, come make money' – Ashni Singh tells oil conference
prosperity for all.
PSC further noted, “We r e m a i n r e s o l u t e i n o u r advocacy for peace, stability, and the rule of law, and we urge all stakeholders to work t o w a r d s a d i p l o m a t i c r e s o l u t i o n t h a t
s p e c t s Guyana's sovereignty and i n t e r n a t i o n a l l e g a l frameworks.”
S h i p p i n g A s s o c i a t i o n calls for peaceful resolution and maritime security
I n i t s s t a t e
S h i p p i n g A s s o c i a t
h
G u y a n a c o n d e m n e d Venezuela's incursion into Guyanese waters.
The association noted that such action poses a direct threat to the security
a n d s t a b i l i t y o f v i t a l m a r i t i m e a c t i v i t i e s , i n c l u d i n g o i l a n d g a s operations.
“This incident is a grave concern to the maritime and s h i p p i n g i n d u s t r y, a s i t
the world, fantastic location, connected to Brazil, next to S u r i n a m e , c a p i t a l o f
CARICOM The seat
CARICOM is at Liliendaal (Georgetown Guyana,) just about 10 minutes away from here.”
The senior minister went on to highlight that investing i n G u y a n a c o m e s w i t h access to huge economic space, free trade agreements with many important trade partners around the world.
“So there are a lot of reasons why Guyana and literally opportunities in every single sector doesn't matter what y o u ' r e d o i n g , ” M i n i s t e r Singh stated.
F u r t h e r, t h e f i n a n c e minister stressed that no
government has created a L o c a l C o n t e n t R e g i s t e r which over 1000 on that register
With over US$ 1 ½
Guyanese businesses since the enactment of the Act, Dr Singh told the gathering that the legislation provides a very strong incentive for partnership with.
Under the Act, 40 areas for services carved out for G
including rentals, supply of goods, accounting, catering
operate within those areas are required to partner with local companies. However,
matter the industry, there is a demand for products and s e r v i c e s i n G u y a n a , a n expanding economy “I say to people that it doesn't matter whether you supply
b u l l d o z e r s , w h e t h e r y o u supply hospitals or hospital
G u y a n a ' s F i n a n c e Minister, Dr Ashni Singh
speaking at the recently concluded Guyana Energy
C o n f e r e n c e a n d S u p p l y Chain Expo reinforced the country's status as a prime i n v e s t m e n t d e s t i n a t i o n , urging global businesses to seize the vast opportunities
available across multiple sectors.
Dr Singh highlighted the n a t i o n ' s r a p i d e c o n o m i c growth and strategic location
a s k e y a d v a n t a g e s f o r investors. “So to come back to the question that I asked at the beginning, why Guyana and I know many of you probably know this already, and I'm not going to repeat anything that you've heard already,” Dr Singh said.
He then outlined, “Like you've heard on multiple occasions, (Guyana is the) fastest growing economy in
beds or hamburgers and everything in between. It does not matter what you produce or what you supply, there is demand for whatever it is that you're producing or supplying in every single s e c t o r , w h e t h e r i t ' s a g r i c u l t u r e , f o r e s t r y , tourism, energy, in every single sector, opportunities abound in Guyana,” he said.
M o r e o v e r, D r S i n g h pointed to Guyana's Local Content Act, which was introduced in 2021 to ensure local participation in the oil and gas sector This law mandates that a portion of oil and gas sector activities be conducted with Guyanese nationals and companies, c r e a t i n g l u c r a t i v e o p p o r
businesses.
“That act has carved out 40 areas where minimum p e r c e n t a g e s o f b u s i n e s s , minimum thresholds have been specified for the oil and gas sector to do business with Guyanese nationals and Guyanese companies,” the minister said. He also noted that the
the law stipulates that the Guyanese partner must have 5
benefits.
'Uncertainty on Gas-toEnergy completion gravely concerning' -but third delay not surprising—PNCR says
The 'Peoples National Congress Reform (PNCR) has said that the uncertainty surrounding the completion of the Gas-to-Energy project is gravely concerning.
Speaking at the party's weekly press conference last (Continued on page 24)
Leader of the Alliance for Change (AFC), Nigel Hughes
OAS Secretary General, Luis Almagro
Guyana's Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh
From page 23
Friday, Economist and Advisor to the PNCR Elson Low told the media that this third delay is not greatly surprising but it highlights that the government does not know what they are about.
“With a project completion date now set sometime in 2026, it is clear that the PNCR/APNU, as the next government, will have to save and open the project.
Let us remind the nation that
the gas-to-energy project was fully conceptualised by the APNU+AFC Coalition government, but has since been mismanaged by the PPP regime,” Low stressed.
He reminded that his party had highlighted that
t h e o n l y w a y f o r t h e government to deliver on its promise to reduce electricity costs by 50% in 2025, is to
a p p r o a c h t h e H o u s e f o r funding to directly subsidise
e l e c t r i c i t y s u p p l y
“Therefore, citizens should
e x p e c t f u r t h e r f r a n t i c plundering of the Natural Resource Fund, as well as the rushed passage of a large supplementary budget of t e n s o f b i l l i o n s , ” L o w cautioned.
H e s a i d t h a t , “ Vi c e President Jagdeo's recent
w a f f l i n g a n d d e f l e c t i o n
a b o u t t h e f i n a n c i a l implications of this latest d e l a y s m a c k o f i n c o m p e t e n c e a n d murkiness. He noted that the government is still assessing
t h e c o s t o f t h e d e l a y, i n c l u d i n g r e l a t e d management costs, but gave no estimate of the costs of the previous delays.” Low urged that these costs must be accounted for and made public, as he believes that the project is currently at least two or three times its original c o s t , a n d t h i s w i l l
s i g n i f i c a n t l y i m p a c t t h e budget of a PNCR/APNU government come next year.
In the same vein, the two arbitration suits against the government for this project also have a series of financial risks attached. These include the amounts of the suits which appears to me roughly
a r o u n d U S $ 1 0 0 M , i n addition to the ongoing legal costs of the proceedings.
“We remind Guyanese that it is under the PPP's watch that there have been a series of s t u m b l i n g b l o c k s a n d complications which have l e d t o t h i s c o n t e n t i o u s situation. If this project were monitored more closely, and the appropriate site studies done before it was put into motion, none of these issues
would have emerged,” the economist said. He added that, recently, the government has begun to speak about a second gas-toenergy project at the same Wa l e s l o c a t i o n t h a t h a s proven to be so problematic.
“While this is intended to be privately funded, the same concerns remain. The costs of soil remediation need to be calculated and factored into any agreement with a private power plant investor to avoid potential disputes.”
“Therefore, there must be thorough due diligence on all shortlisted bidders, as well as a n y b i d d e r s w h o i s a s p e c i a l l y c r e a t e d c o n s o r t i u m , a l l o f t h e beneficial owners must be clearly identified “to expose a n y P P P n e p o t i s m a n d
c r o n y i s m ” A d d i t i o n a l l y, proven experience in the construction and operation of such power plants must be a requirement. The entire process must be transparent and must duly respect the people's right to know
F o l l o w i n g r e c e n t announcement by Head of the Gas-to-Energy (GTE)
T a s k f o r c e , W i n s t o n Brassington, that the gas-toenergy project is not likely to be completed within the s t i p u l a t e d t i m e l i n e , t h e contractor, Lindsayca/CH4 last Thursday indicated that enhanced protocols have been implemented to allow for accelerated progress on the construction of two gas plants.
T h e c o n s o r t i u m w a s
c o n t r a c t e d b y t h e
G o v e r n m e n t o f G u y a n a (GoG) in December 2022 to build a Natural Gas Liquid (NGL) plant and a 300megawatt natural gas fire plant at Wales, West Bank Demerara. The construction was delayed following a late handover of the site to the contractor, which led to a dispute between the GoG and the contractor While that matter was forwarded to the Dispute Avoidance and A d j u d i c a t i o n B o a r d (DAAB), government said the construction works were not put on hold.
In a statement to the m e d i a y e s t e r d a y , Lindsayca/CH4 said it was informed of recent public statements about timeline adjustments for the Wales Gas-to-Energy Project It s a i d , “ L N D C H 4 G u y a n a
r e c o g n i s e s t h e s t r a t e g i c importance of this landmark project to Guyana's energy
actively collaborating with all stakeholders to address technical complexities and logistical considerations.”
The contractor added, “
Government of Guyana and other key stakeholders, we have implemented enhanced
accelerate progress while
y standards.” The consortium noted that U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, recently reaffirmed the U.S. Government's full support f o r t h e p r o j e
d underscored the value the United States places on its partnership with Guyana. In
endorsement, the company reaffirmed its commitment
G
s f o r m a t i o n a n d t h e delivery of the gas plants, noting its appreciation for the GoG's partnership in advancing the project.
K a i e t e u r N e w s h a d reported Brassington, while p r o v i d i n g l o c a l e n e r g y u p d a t e s a t t h e r e c e n t l y concluded Guyana Energy Conference, said that the N G L a n d 3 0 0 - m e g a w a t t powerplant is “contractually scheduled to be delivered in the second half of this year but we have seen a schedule that suggests this is going to
t a k e l o n g e r – s o c o n t r a c t u a l l y t h i s y e a r, realistically we're looking at some delays and a lot of this is, some of these matters are in dispute and therefore I can't speak about it at this point.”
According to him, the final cost of the two plants is “to be determined,” in light of the ongoing disputes with
t h e j o i n t v e n t u r e .
Brassington's presentation indicated completion of the p l a n t s b y 2 0 2 6 I n t h e m
E x x o n M
i
G u y a n a Limited (EMGL) has been
completed, with nitrogen pumped into the structure as it awaits completion of the other components.
O n J a n u a r y 3 1 , t h e DAAB issued its ruling on the dispute between the GoG
a n d t h e c o n t r a c t o r T h e Office of the President in a
s t a t e m e n t h o w e v e r , indicated that the parties to t h e d i s p u t e
i o n process are bound by certain rules of “confidentiality”. As such, Government did
not specify the details of the d e c i s i o n m a d e b y t h e D A A B , f o l l o w i n g a c o m p l a i n t f i l e d o n September 19, 2024. It only revealed that the Parties have 28 days to determine if they wish to refer the decisions, or a n y p a r t t h e r e o f , t o Arbitration, which would be the next stage in the dispute resolution process. It was explained, “The GOG will, therefore, in the next few weeks, in consultation with i t s p a r t n e r s , i n c l u d i n g
ExxonMobil, as well as relevant legal and technical advisors, determine the best course forward for GOG.”
Tuesday
Venezuela's aggression a threat to peace —Govt. says concerned with persistence encroachment on Guyana's land and maritime territory
As concerns grow over V e n e z u e l a ' s r e c e n t incursion, government said this latest action has done nothing but pose a threat to the peace, good order and security of the sovereign territory of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and the s t a b i l i t y o f t h e L a t i n
communicated threateningly via radio communication that FPSO PROSPERITY was operating in Venezuela's exclusive economic zone, b e f o r e c o n t i n u i n g i n a
S o u t h w e s t e r n d i r e c t i o n towards other FPSOs, to which it delivered the same message.
According to a Ministry of Foreign Affairs statement, the Government of Guyana in sending a formal protest to t h e G o v e r n m e n t o f Venezuela on March 1, 2025 reminded Venezuela, that all t h e a c t i v i t i e s w h i c h t h e Government of Guyana has authorised to be undertaken in its Exclusive Economic Zone are entirely within the maritime areas appurtenant
to the sovereign coastal
t e r
Aw a r d o f 1 8 9 9 , w h i c h
e s t a b l i s h e d t h e f r o n t i e r between British Guiana and Venezuela consistent with well-established principles
o f i n t e r n a t i o n a l l a w i n respect of this maritime area, Guyana enjoys sovereignty up to 12 nautical miles in the territorial sea, and sovereign rights beyond 12 nautical m i l e s i n t h e E x c l u s i v e
Economic Zone and the continental shelf.
T h e G o v e r n m e n t o f G u y a n a h a s f u r t h e r
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hugh Todd
region. Guyana said too that it views this manoeuvre as highly provocative and is concerned by the persistence o f t h e G o v e r n m e n t o f Venezuela in encroaching on Guyana's land and maritime territory
On 1 March 2025, at approximately 0700 hours, Venezuelan Naval Vessel A B V G u a i q u e i r
d approximately 700 metres in G
n
' s E x c l u s
v e Economic Zone near FPSO PROSPERITY, which was operating lawfully under a l i c e n s e i s s u e d b y t h e Government of Guyana. The Ve n e z u e l a n n a v a l v e s s e l
shall refrain from any action which might aggravate or extend the dispute before the C o u r t o r m a k e i t m o r e difficult to resolve.”
Noting that as the only State entitled to administer and exercise control over the Essequibo Region pending the final Judgment by the Court, Guyana said it enjoys the right to administer and exercise control over the a
“The aggressive behaviour b y Ve n e z u e l a ' s n
v a l warship on March 1, 2025 v
prohibition on engaging in
concerned that this latest act by Venezuela is an escalation of the tensions Venezuela has
publicly announcing that it w
Guyana's sovereign territory, now scheduled for 25 May 2 0
council for the “Guayana Esequiba State”, which is w
Ve
Guyana's Essequibo Region – an integral part of Guyana's sovereign territory – which Ve n
“annex” in 2024.”
The ministry's statement f u r t h e r n o t e d t h
s u c h hostile acts are inconsistent with the obligation of the P a r t i e s
political independence, and t
peaceful means, and thus can only be viewed as a threat to
region.
Aggressive acts
reminded the Government of V e n e z u e l a o f i t s i n t e r n a t i o n a l o b l i g a t i o n s under general international law, the United Nations Charter and the Order issued by the International Court of Justice on December 1, 2023 w h i c h s t a t e s t h a t : ( 1 )
Pending a final decision in the case, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela shall r e f r a i n f r o m t a k i n g a n y action which would modify the situation that currently prevails in the territory in dispute, whereby the Coo p e r a t i v e R e p u b l i c o f G u y a n a a d m i n i s t e r s a n d exercises control over that area; and (2) Both Parties
Guyana noted too that in recent times, Venezuela has, in fact, resorted to a series of aggressive actions in the Guyana/ Venezuela border region. These include the
tanks, and patrol boats to Ankoko (the island through w
passes, the eastern portion of which belongs to Guyana but was seized by Venezuela in 1966), and an exponential increase in the presence of Venezuelan troops along the border “Compounding this threat to Guyana, Venezuela c
connecting the Venezuelan mainland to Guyana's part of (Continued on page 26)
A trip down memor y lane with Lady Gaga,
the reigning queen of reinvention
(CNN) - Whether Lady Gaga is showing up to award shows decked out in a raw meat dress or accepting an Oscar, one thing is for sure: S h e i s a m a s t e r o f reinvention.
“I like to liberate myself with my ability to change,” Gaga said in her 2011 “Gaga by Gaultier” film “The fantasy becomes my reality.” It’s an ethos that has become a thesis of sorts for what came to follow in her career as Lady Gaga, time and again, has taken on several new personas. With each new album has come a new Lady Gaga, a new look, a new statement, a new avant garde outfit and a new sound.
W i t h h e r n e w a l b u m “Mayhem” coming out on Thursday, she’s perhaps not reinventing so much as she is returning to form. Ahead of Mother Monster ’s return,
here’s a look back at some of h e r m o s t m e m o r a b l e moments of reinvention.
The meat dress
The 2010 MTV VMAs only had one real winner: The woman whose flank
s t e a k f r o c k b y F r a n c Fernandez delivered one of the most memorable fashion moments in recent history Special shout out to the accompanying meat purse, which Gaga asked Cher to h o l d w h i l e o n s t a g e accepting a VMA statuette.
T h a t s a m e n i g h t , G a g a announced that she’d be releasing her next album “Born This Way” and sang a sneak-peek riff from the title track’s chorus.
Jo Calderone Gaga had a lot of fun during the rollout of 2011’s
“ B o r n T h i s Wa y. ” O n e
m e m o r a b l e m o m e n t involved the introduction of
Jo Calderone, her Jersey boy greaser alter ego who she portrayed on stage at the 2011 VMAs while singing “Yoü and I,” after debuting in the music video for the song. Lady Gaga stayed in character the entire night as Calderone, including while accepting two VMAs and presenting Britney Spears with the Video Vanguard Award. Sadly, Lady Gaga told Vanity Fair last month that Calderone is actually “no longer with us.” RIP
The egg
If Lady Gaga knows how to do anything, it’s make an entrance. Also during her “Born This Way” era, she entered the 2011 Grammys in a human-size egg. The Hussein Chalayan-designed vessel was carried by latexclad performance artists with Lady Gaga seen through its foggy shell sitting inside. She later hatched from an egg during her performance of the album’s title track during the ceremony Jazz collab
A f t e r L a d y G a g a ’ s h
g h l y s c r u t i n
e d 2 0 1 3 “ArtPop” album – which, to be fair, did give us the banger known as “Applause” – she made a hard left turn into c r e a t i n g h e r f i r s t collaborative jazz album with the late Tony Bennett. Their 2014 album “Cheek to C h e e k ” m a r k e d t h e beginning of a years-long collaboration between the two music greats. The pair r e l e a s e d a s e c o n d collaborative album in 2021 titled “Love for Sale.” Gaga took her jazz singer persona to Las Vegas in 2019 when she debuted her “Love and Jazz” residency, which ran until 2024. Bennett died in 2023.
Gone folk
As if there weren’t a million reasons to love Lady Gaga as the chameleonic artist that she is, the intrepid singer gave the folk-country genre a try in 2016 with her
f i f t h s t u d i o “ J o a n n e , ” notably before the current country-pop renaissance of the 2020s. “Joanne” marked a total and complete tonal
s h i f t f o r a s i n g e r w h o , outside of her jazz music career, was always known for her thunderous pop-club anthems. “Joanne” offered a softer, folksy and paired down track list of songs including “Million Reasons” and “Hey Girl (feat. Florence Welch)” and gave us a reason to sport a pink cowboy hat. The Oscar-winner Lady Gaga sits among an
elite group of artists who can c a l l t h e m s e l v e s O s c a r w i n n e r s , a
certainly compliments the 14 G
y sitting atop her shelf. Lady Gaga has been nominated for four Oscars total but in 2019, she won her first (and so far only) statuette in the best original song category for “ S h a l l o w, ” w h i c h w a s written for the film “A Star is B o r n ” S
alongside Bradley Cooper in the film and earned a nod for lead actress. At the same ceremony, she and Cooper p
chemistry when they (Continued on page 29)
Lady Gaga at the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards in Los Angeles.
Lady Gaga is seen dressed as alter ego Jo Calderone at the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards in Los Angeles.
Lady Gaga at the 2019 Vanity Fair Oscar Party in Beverly Hills.
Cat
Burns
Celebrates Queer
Cat Burns Celebrates Queer
Identity with New Track
Identity with New Track
British singer-songwriter Cat Burns is making a bold statement with her latest single “Girls!” - a refreshing departure from her previous “serious” records. The 24-year-old artist, who rose to prominence when her 2020 single “Go” went viral on TikTok in 2023, is now embracing music that celebrates her sexuality
“I feel like I never had a song like that for me, especially for all the queer girls,” Burns told BBC N e w s b e a
s C
c s ’ Choice nominee believes such representation is crucial for young people discovering their identity
Burns joins a growing wave of queer female artists dominating charts with authentic expressions of same-sex relationships. Artists
“Girls!”
“Girls!”
like Chappell Roan with “Good Luck, Babe!” and Billie Eilish’s “Lunch” have recently achieved mainstream success with songs exploring lesbian relationships - a significant shift from earlier pop representations like Katy Perry’s 2008 hit “I Kissed A Girl.”
“It’s always good when we make room for lesbian and queer artists to speak about it when we’re further into our journey,” Burns explained “Where it’s less curiosity and trying and more like: ‘No, I’m into it now and really delving into my experience as a queer woman ’”
Burns, who has previously spoken about her ADHD and a
within the LGBTQ+ community
“Having people like Reneé Rapp, Chappell Roan, and hopefully s o m e o n e l i k e m y s e l f , w e ’ r e starting to show people that we’re not a monolith,” she said.
The singer credits social media and trailblazing artists for creating a space where queer artists can be “queer loudly” with greater safety than in previous eras.
A s m o r e a
s o p e n l y celebrate their identities, Burns notes the LGBTQ+ community has become an enthusiastic fan base. “We champion and love loads of straight artists, which is great. But I think it’s nice that, in the last five to 10 years, we’re now getting queer artists being able to be championed and loved by our own community.”
(Adapted from BBC)
Cat Burns
Ciara soaks up Trinidad’s culture during her Carnival debut
American singer and songwriter
C i a r a W i l s o n i m m e r s e d h e r s e l f i n Trinidad’s vibrant culture
d u r i n g h e r f i r s t - e v e r
C a r n i v a l e x p e r i e n c e , embracing everything from the island’s renowned soca music to its world-famous rum heritage.
S p e a k i n g a t a H y a t t Regency press conference in Port of Spain yesterday, Ciara revealed her growing appreciation for Trinidad’s musical landscape, having connected with soca legend Machel Montano during her visit.
“ S o c a m u s i c i s i n c r e d i b l e I t d e f i n i t e l y makes you want to wine and pop it—I’m from Atlanta, Georgia, that’s what we do. The spirit of soca music is r e a l l y i n f e c t i o u s , ” s h e enthused, citing Montano’s
11th Road March winner
“ P a r d y, ” Yu n g B r e d d a ’s “The Greatest Bend Over” a n d K e e s ’ “ C o c o a Te a ” among her favourites. Her cultural exploration extends beyond music into t h e r e a l m o f C a r i b b e a n
s p i r i t s t h r o u g h h e r partnership with Ten To One Rum founder Marc Farrell. Since 2019, Ciara has served as investor, coowner and director of the b r a n d , w h i c h d r a w s inspiration from Caribbean rum traditions.
“I met Marc during the pandemic,” she shared.
“My celebration after finishing breastfeeding was having a drink, and that first drink was Ten To One White Rum in a mojito ”
W h e n a s k e d a b o u t
b r i n g i n g t h e b r a n d t o Trinidad, Ciara respectfully acknowledged T&T as “the
Ciara reveling in the
l a n d o f
w h i l e expressing her ambition to make Ten to One a local favorite.
Farrell emphasized the importance of the Caribbean
connection, noting, “The soul of the brand is here, so ensuring it occupies the right places in the Caribbean is really important.”
Embracing the spirit of T
return following her cultural baptism this year.
Ahead of International Women’s Day on Saturday, she also shared empowering words reflecting values of c o n f i d e n c e a n d determination that resonate across cultures: “To my girls around the world, you are that girl—know that—and know that we have what it takes to do what we need to
A trip down memory lane with Lady Gaga...
From page 25 performed “Shallow,” later lighting up the internet.
Bonus: Forever an advocate
As Lady Gaga reinvents herself, at her core she’s also always a champion for people, for diversity and for inclusion. Her Born This Way foundation empowers young people to be “kinder and braver” and provides mental health resources.
She’s also advocated for women’s rights and LGBTQ+ rights. During a speech
honoring the victims of the 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting during a rally, Gaga said:
“I hope you know that myself and so many are your allies. Not only me but everyone here, we represent the compassion and the loyalty of millions of people around the world that believe in you. You are not alone.”
Lady Gaga’s humanity is the look she wears best. She doesn’t see advocacy as a moment or an ever-changing work of art but a way of life, and that’s why she’s always worthy of “Applause.”
do and go where we want to go.”
enthusiasm for
relationship with the island and its traditions.
Ciara’s
tapestry suggests this first Carnival experience may be
the beginning of a lasting
Trinidad Mas (Andrea De Silva photos)
BY KAREN ABRAMS
G u y a n a ’ s e d u c a t i o n system faces a significant challenge; too many of our
c h i l d r e n s t r u g g l e w i t h
l i t e r a c y a n d n u m e r a c y, particularly in underserved
c o a s t a l a n d h i n t e r l a n d
communities. The World Bank reports that 50 percent of second-grade students in
G u y a n a f a i l t o m e e t
f o u n d a t i o n a l a c a d e m i c standards, with even lower rates in the hinterland.
T h e s e l e a r n i n g g a p s contribute to high dropout rates, low STEM proficiency, and a continued brain drain,
as nearly 89 percent of
u n i v e r s i t y - e d u c a t e d G u
Guyana’s Technology Frontier - Advancing
AI can be a force for equity, particularly for students in u n d e r s e r v e d r e
empower students to take an active role in their learning, a principle that AI tutoring
Education, Science & Innovation
critical to ensuring that AI tutoring would be measured i n a m e a n i n g f u l w a y P s y c h o l o g i c a l t h e o r i e s suggest that AI tutoring can e n h a n c e l e a r n i n g b y i m p r o v i n g e n g a g e m e n t , reducing cognitive overload, and motivating students to t a k e c o n t r o l o f t h e i r e d u c a t i o n C o n s t r u c t i v i s t theory states that learning is most effective when students a c t i v e l y i n t e r a c t w i t h material, which aligns with the interactive AI tutoring approach.
methods may not always accommodate.
The study is structured as
trial, a research method that
students who use the AIpowered platform and those
learning methods.
The research seeks to determine whether students using AI tutoring perform better in Math and English, whether time spent engaging with the platform directly c
academic performance, and w h e t h
Harnessing AI to Transform Education in Guyana - A Researcher’s Perspective
y a n e s e p r o f e s s i o n a l s emigrate in search of better
o p p o r t u n i t i e s W i t h
G u y a n a ’ s e c o n o m y expanding due to new oil and gas discoveries, it is critical to ensure that our education system can prepare students for the future. As an educator and researcher, I wanted to explore whether artificial intelligence could be used as a tool to close these gaps and improve student learning outcomes.
This led to my study on the impact of AI-powered tutoring in STEMGuyana’s Learning Pods, which serve students across the country
T h e A I - b a s e d t u t o r i n g platform, Pathway Online
A c a d e m y , o f f e r s p e r s o n a l i z e d l e a r n i n g
e x p e r i e n c e s i n M a t h , English, Science and Social Studies, using AI-generated quizzes, interactive lessons, and real-time feedback on l e s s o n s g u i d e d b y t h e M i n i s t r y o f E d u c a t i o n ’s curriculum.
To design this study, I h a d t o m o v e b e y o n d technology and explore the p s y c h o l o g i c a l a n d philosophical foundations of e
g h o w s t u d e n t s l e a r n a n d engage with digital tools was
Cognitive load theory emphasizes the importance of structuring learning to p r e v e n t i n f o r m a t i o n overload, which the AI tutor accomplishes by breaking down complex lessons. Self-
d e t e r m i n a t i o n t h e o r y highlights how motivation increases when students feel a sense of autonomy and competence, two qualities that AI tutoring fosters by allowing students to work at t h e i r o w n p a c e w h i l e receiving instant feedback.
Research on engagement
t h e o r y h a s s h o w n t h a t students who are actively involved in their learning process, spending more time on tasks, interacting with l e a r n i n g m a t e r i a l s , a n d participating in structured lessons, tend to perform better academically
P h i l o s o p h i c a l perspectives also played an important role in shaping t h i s s t u d y. P r a g m a t i s m suggests that learning should be relevant and applicable to r e a l - l i f e s i t u a t i o n s , a principle that AI tutoring
s u p p o r t s b y o f f e r i n g
p e r s o n a l i s e d , i n t e r a c t i v e
l e s s o n s Te c h n o l o g i c a l d e t e r m i n i s m r a i s e s questions about how AI will shape education and whether i t w i l l c r e a t e g r e a t e r o p p o r t u n
u d y seeks to determine whether
a i n A I components, such as the tutoring agent or interactive quizzes, are more effective than others. If the study confirms these hypotheses, it c o u l d h a v e p r o f o u n d implications for education in Guyana. Early results have been promising.
Guyana stands on the threshold of a technological revolution, and education must evolve to meet these new challenges. The results of this study could inform policy decisions and help integrate AI into classrooms nationwide, ensuring that s t u d e n t s r e c e i v e t h e personalized support they n e e d t o s u c c e e d I f A I tutoring proves to be an effective tool for learning, it could be expanded to serve thousands of students across the country, particularly in r e g
g hindered academic progress.
technology can transform education in Guyana. In the
forward to sharing the results
and the public to discuss how
E d u c a t i o n i s t h e f o u n d a t i o n o f n a t i o n a l development, and finding innovative solutions to longs t a n d i n g c h a l l e n g e s i s essential. If AI can help close the learning gap and provide students with the skills they need for the future, it is an o p p o r t u n i t y w o r t h exploring. This study is just the beginning, but I hope it w i l l l e a d t o a b r o a d e r c o n v e r s a t i o n a b o u
AI can be used responsibly and effectively to improve learning outcomes.
The future of Guyana depends on the strength of its education system. It is time to embrace well researched innovative practices which i
engagement and academic outcomes and ensure that every child, regardless of background, has access
From page 24
A n k o k o I s l a n d T h e completion of this bridge in D e c e m b e r 2 0 2 4 , s i g n i f i c a n t l y b o l s t e r s
V e n e z u e l a ' s m i l i t a r y
c a p a b i l i t i e s , e n h a n c i n g
offensive strategies, ” the Guyana Government stated. The ministry's statement asserted that Guyana has
a l w a y s e m p l o y e d a
diplomacy of peace and abided by the principles of the United Nations Charter and the rule of international law “We will not however, countenance the annexation, seizure or occupation of any
p a r t o f o u r s o v e r e i g n territory or the threat thereof. Nor will we accept any threats to Guyana's licensees operating lawfully in the
w a t e r s a d j a c e n t t o t h e
E s s e q u i b o R e g i o n T h i s l a t e s t i n c i d e n t a n d t h e i m m e d i a t e t h r e a t s t o regional peace and security
a n d t h e p o l i t i c a l independence of Guyana that have arisen as a result of Ve n e z u e l a ' s p u r p o r t e d annexation of, and other aggressive actions against, Guyana's sovereign land and maritime territory, have been brought to the attention of
t h e U n i t e d N a t i o n s , t h e Organisation of American
S t a t e s , t h e C a r i b b e a n
C o m m u n i t y a n d t h e Commonwealth as well as
M e m b e r S t a t e s o f t h e i n t e r n a t i o n a l c o m m u n i t y
Guyana will continue to u p d a t e t h e i n t e r n a t i o n a l
c o m m u n i t y o n
d e v e l o p m e n t s i n t h i s m a t t e r , ” t h e s t a t e m e n t concluded.
'Use same zeal to secure better oil deal for Guyana' —Glenn Lall urges Pres. Ali and Norton after their meeting over Venezuela incursion
W h i l e a c k n o w l e d g i n g the need for a united front on
t h e s u b j e c t o f G u y a n a ' s territorial integrity in the face of recent Venezuela's threats, Businessman and advocate for a better oil deal, Glenn Lall, said the President and Leader of the Opposition should show the same eagerness to fight for more from this country's oil resources
He said that all Guyana
s h o u l d s t a n d u p a g a i n s t
Ve n e z u e l a ' s t h r e a t s a n d aggression, but he does not see the same zeal from our leaders to also fight for this
c o u n t r y e c o n o m i c independence. “We have that trillion-dollar resource out there that we are hardly
Businessman, Glenn Lall
getting anything from, but these same men are not
m e e t i n g t o s e c u r e t h a t resou
m a d e t h e c o m m e n t s i n r e a c t i o n t o t h e h a s t i l y arranged meeting between President Irfaan Ali and Leader of the Opposition,
A u b r e y N o r t o n l a s t
S a t u r d a y, f o l l o w i n g a n incident where an armed
Venezuelan patrol vessel Guaiquerí (PO 11), entered
G u y a n a ' s w a t e r s a n d
a p p r o a c h e d E x x o n M o b i l
G u y a n a ' s F l o a t i n g
P r o d u c t i o n S t o r a g e a n d
O f f l o a d i n g ( F P S O ) platform–Prosperity – which is operating in Guyana's oilrich Stabroek Block. The Stabroek Block is being operated by U.S. oil giant ExxonMobil Guyana and its p a r t n e r s a n d c o n t a i n s approximately 11.6B barrels of oil.
The Venezuelan vessel radioed the FPSO platform stating that it was operating in what it termed “disputed international waters” before c o n t i n u i n g i t s c o u r s e t o w a r d s o t h e r F P S O s operating in the oil block. Ali met with Norton at State House Saturday afternoon, during which he fully briefed t h e L O O o n r e c e n t t h e incursion by Venezuela.
But Lall, who has been consistently critical of the leaders' failure to engage the US oil major on the subject of a renegotiation of the lopsided oil contract, said he had not seen the same effort by the leaders to protect the c o u n t r y ' s e c o n o m i c w e l l b e i n g “ T h e s e t w o leaders cannot see eye to eye on anything else. They don't have one word to say to each other about the other threats this country faces day after day with our resources. I want them to talk about our resources and the threats we face,” Lall told listeners to
licence to pile up billions of US dollars in expenses that should not be on our books or against our name. That is what these two men should be meeting about, that is what is draining our oil profits.”
Guyanese can benefit more. The government has also failed to implement key strategies for the prudent m a n a g e m e n t o f t h e resources and measures that allow for public oversight a n d a c c o
l o t o f r o o m f o r improvement.”
Wednesday
h i s r a d i o p r o g r a m m e Monday night. He added that President Ali and Opposition Leader N o r t o
a Venezuela threat, “but they have never met to speak with one voice, to correct that other threat to Guyana- that ExxonMobil contract, the same deal that would leave g
i n poverty and hunger.” Lall's comments mirror those of Tr a d e U n i o n i s t , L i n c o l n Lewis, who also berated Norton for agreeing to the meeting with Ali. In a letter to the editor Lewis said that in September 2023, he had r
Norton failing to take a firm
Venezuela/Guyana border dispute. He said back then, the issue was Venezuela's rejection of Guyana's oil block sales. “Today, I find myself revisiting the issue
w i t h g r o w i n g a l a r m , a s Norton continues to make the same mistake—meeting with Ali without setting clear
c o n d i t i o n s , w h
e A l i unabashedly disregards the local events.” These include: c
n and
of Guyana, and the interests of the very people Norton is supposed to represent.
“By agreeing to meet Ali
w i t h o u t d e m a n d i n g a c c o u n t a b i l i t y , N o r t o n allows Ali to show open contempt for both his office
a n d t h e c i t i z e n s h e represents,” Lewis said.
For his part Lall said Ali and Norton have never met to take a stand together on ring-fencing the oil projects, noting that ring fencing is not a threat, “ring fencing is where the Guyanese people are being raped and robbed, every single day from that oil. Lack of ring-fencing
g i v e s E x x o n M o b i l t h e
According to Lall, the two leaders are not meeting to discuss why Guyanese are g e t t i n g “ t h a t m i s e r a b l e 14.5% from this oil, when Suriname, Trinidad, Brazil, Belize and the rest of the oil producing world walking home with over 60 or 70 and even 80% from every barrel of their oil.” “They won't meet to address why the country is drowning in a U S $ 5 B d e b t , d e s p i t e collecting US$6B in revenue from the oil alone. The two of them wouldn't meet to a d d r e s s t h e a u d i t o r s ' findings—that ExxonMobil has been allegedly robbing the Guyanese people of b i l l i o n s t h r o u g h s h a d y expenses and inflated costs. They won't meet to discuss putting our own meters at Exxon's pumps, to track exactly how much oil is being pumped and shipped out daily No, they don't have time for that. They can't meet to secure Guyana and the region from an oil spill, a disaster that would wipe out our environment, p o i s o n o u r w a t e r s f o r generations to come, cripple our way of life and destroy our economy,” Lall said.
Last December marked five years since ExxonMobil commenced offshore deepwater oil production here and although the US oil major continues to boast of record profits owing to the lopsided nature of the contract it secured, the Government of Guyana is yet to take steps to change the deal so that
y ExxonMobil is the operator
Block where more than 11
partnership with Hess and CNOOC Th
ag
ement exempts the oil companies from paying taxes directly, with Guyana covering these c o s t s , a n d a l l o w s t h e companies to recover up to 75% of their investments before the remaining 25% is s
t O f t h i s , G u y a n a receives 12.5%, in addition to a 2% royalty paid by the oil companies.
Meanwhile, Director of Energy at Americas Market Intelligence, Arthur Deakin, had shared the view that the government lacks a clear s t r u c t u r e o n h o w t h e resources from this sector will be used to transform the lives of Guyanese. He noted that Guyana's oil sector has been moving at one of the fastest paces known in the industry; however, when it comes to translating that wealth to the population, this has been taking some time. In fact, the specialist pointed out that for the wealth to benefit the population, it w o u l d r e q u i r e s t r u c t u r a l p l a n n i n g b y t h e administration. To this end, D e a k i n s a i d , “ T h e government lacks a clear vision, a clear plan on how it's gonna spend the money it's receiving from the oil revenue, so I think there is a
Nazar Mohamed not ruling out assassination attempt on son …accuses Govt. of misapplying U.S. sanctions; vows to speak out more
Guyanese businessman, N a z
d h a s expressed concern over what h
his son, Azruddin Mohamed, stating that he does not rule out the possibility of an assassination attempt.
“I don't rule out the p o s s i b i l i t y o f a n assassination attempt on my s o n , b e c a u s e s
happen,” Mohamed said in a Facebook video on Tuesday L
U S Treasurys Office of Foreign
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour, Mae
y misusing her position to
the Mohameds. Mohamed alleged that since then, senior figures
deliberately misrepresented the imposed U.S. sanctions which he says has led to a systematic effort to affect their businesses.
“To say that it hasn't affected us is an (Continued on page 37)
Businessmen Nazar Mohamed and his son, Azruddin Mohamed
From page 36
understatement. Indeed, it
h a s a ff e c t e d u s g r e a t l y, because our entire business,
a c t u a l l y c o m e t o a standstill,” Mohamed stated.
He added, “What I want to tell you, because I've seen, read and heard from people, some very senior people within the political structure, who have been deliberately
misrepresenting what the sanction is about, ostracizing us.”
Mohamed reasoned that despite the sanctions, there is no restriction on his ability to o p e r a t e b u s i n e s s e s i n
G u y a n a a n d a c c u s e d authorities of weaponizing the sanctions to suppress his operations.
“We have been in the oil and gas sector very early, and we have lots of clients from
v a r i o u s A m e r i c a n companies who had to leave
a f t e r t h e s a n c t i o n
R e s p e c t f u l l y, w e w e r e providing great service for them, but they have to leave, which is understandable, but to say that anyone who associates themselves with
the Mohamed would be sanctioned is ludicrous,” he stated.
Further, he dismissed claims that individuals who interact with them would face repercussions.
T h e b u s i n e s s m a n alsodetailed the mounting c h a l l e n g e s f a c e d b y h i s companies, particularly the refusal to renew his cabotage permission, and issues with his mining licence.
“ T h e C o n s t i t u t i o n protects me as a citizen of Guyana. I can do whatever business I want to do in my country No one can stop me from doing any business in our country, because the sanction does not dictate that I cannot do business in my country,” he argued.
M o h a m e d p o i n t e d t o d i f f i c u l t i e s i n r e n e w i n g mining and quarry licences, and the revocation of his C a m b i o l i c e n c e w i t h o u t justification. “We have for the past 14 years, about 80,000 acres of mining land. We never had an issue of renewing it yearly Pay all the royalties on it. When I c a l l e d t h e ( G G M C ) Commissioner, I wrote to him, I called him, he said that, well, he's going to get back to me. Many, many months have now passed and he doesn't get back to me. So, we are contemplating, you know, to maybe go to court
o n t h i s i s s u e , ” t h e businessman added.
M o r e o v e r , h e a l s o
claimed that despite reports of other businesses engaging in illegal financial activities, authorities have failed to take action.
“There is this guy… this businessman who has been b u y i n g g o l d f r o m Venezuelan men dressed in m i l i t a r y u n i f o r m , 9 9 9 % gold export, it returns the m o n e y t o a c i t y b a n k , billions of US dollars within a four-year span, almost put the country financial system into crisis, and nothing has b e e n d o n e a b o u t t h a t , ” Mohamed said.
He vowed to continue speaking out on these issues and urged the public to r e m a i n v i g i l a n t H e highlighted his long-time support for the PPP but stressed that there is now a lot of hostility from the party towards his family
Exxon to develop approx. 5 billion barrels of oil from six approved projects – Routledge
ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL) president,
A l i s t a i r R o u t l e d g e , h a s d i s c l o s e d t h a t n e a r l y 5 billion barrels of oil will be p r o d u c e d f r o m t h e s i x approved developments in the Stabroek Block.
D u r i n g a r e c e n t
i n t e r v i e w w i t h O i l N o w,
Routledge was asked to comment on the discourse of t h e S t a b r o e k B l o c k ' s
r e s o u r c e p o t e n t i a l H e s s C o r p o r a t i o n ' s C h i e f Executive Officer (CEO), John Hess, has disclosed that his company's estimate of d i s c o v e r e d r e s o u r c e s i n Guyana's Stabroek Block
exceeds the less-than-11b i l l i o n - b a r r e l s - o f - o i lequivalent figure shared by the operator of the block, ExxonMobil.
Exxon holds 45% shares in the Stabroek Block, while Hess and CNOOC hold 30% a n d 2 5 % i n t e r e s t respectively
T h e S t a b r o e k B l o c k , renowned for its vast oil p o t e n t i a l , h a s b e e n t h e subject of global attention s i n c e o i l p r o d u c t i o n commenced five years ago.
ExxonMobil's president had previously stated that the company's estimate remains below 11 billion barrels of o i l e q u i v a l e n t , d e s p i t e several new discoveries in the block since the previous update in 2022. However, the government disclosed that their figure stands at 11.6 billion barrels.
D u r i n g t h e O i l N o w
i n t e r v i e w R o u t l e d g e
outlined Exxon's approach to resource development. He explained that the company's f o c u s r e m a i n s o n transitioning resources from estimates to fully developed reserves.
“Now the number that's most important is, how do we move estimated ultimate r e c o v e r r e s o u r c e , t o developed resource, to prove a n d d e v e l o p e d r e s o u r c e , w h
c
i s m u c h m o r e meaningful, there's always a degree of a set of key assumptions about what the future may hold, what sort of
will be produced from the six sanctioned projects.
E x x o n i s c u r r e n t l y p r o d u c i n g o v e r 6 5 0 , 0 0 0 barrels of oil per day (bpd) from Liza 1, Liza 2, and P a y a r a d e v e l o p m e n t s , supported by three floating p r o d u c t i o n s t o r a g e a n d
o f f l o a d i n g ( F P S O ) vessels—Destiny, Unity, and Prosperity Last year, Exxon
a n n o u n c e d t h a t s i n c e
p r o d u c t i o n b e g a n i n
D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 9 , i t h a s
s u r p a s s e d 5 0 0 m i l l i o n barrels of oil.
R e g a r d i n g f u t u r e e x p l o r a t i o n e f f o r t s ,
developments. But moving t h o s e f o r w a r d a n d m a t e r i a l i z i n g t h e development, getting to the final investment decision, is what moves that resource i n t o d e v e l o p m e n t , ” Routledge explained.
He added, “And we've now got to the point where, with the projects that have
b e e n s a n c t i o n e d , w e ' r e approaching 5 billion barrels
o f d e v e l o p e d r e s o u r c e , which is a significant step forward for the country.”
Since making its first discovery in 2015, Exxon
h a s t r a n s i t i o n e d f r o m exploration to production in r e c o r d t i m e G u y a n a ' s
Stabroek Block holds an estimated 11.6 billion barrels of oil, meaning almost half
R o u t l e d g e a c k n o w l e d g e d
t h e s u c c e s s o f e x i s t i n g discoveries but noted that the company continues to search f o r a d d i t i o n a l r e s e r v e s across the Stabroek Block and beyond.
“We certainly hope so. I m e a n , t h a t ' s w h a t w e ' r e working towards, is, can we f i n d a d d i t i o n a l p l a y s ? I
m e a n , w h a t w e ' v e established is a very good u n d e r s t a n d i n g o f c e r t a i n plays, and particularly a central southeast portion of the block. As you're aware, we have drilled some other exploration wells…trying to test different plays in other parts of the Stabroek block,” he noted.
To this end, he stated that this is still the early days in a
new frontier basin. “And so even though we've had an immense amount of success, there's still a lot of unknowns across the basin that we have to work through,” he said.
Additionally, Exxon is also refining its approach based on data gathered from p a s t e x p l o r a t i o n w e l l s , l e v e r a g i n g s e i s m i c r e p r o c e s s i n g t o i m p r o v e efficiency in identifying new potential reserves.
“But from the wells that we've drilled, we've gathered a lot of information. We return to the seismic, we reprocess, we relook at that seismic, and with what that gives us we can be more selective as we go forward.
W h a t a r e t h e b e s t opportunities where we still t h i n k t h e r e ' s p o t e n t i a l ? ” Routledge explained.
E x x o n ' s f o u r t h development, Yellowtail, is expected to come onstream later this year, with the fifth and sixth projects, Uaru and W h i p t a i l , s c h e d u l e d f o r startup in 2026 and 2027, respectively
Thursday
Rape allegations against son “politically motivated”
- Mohamed says … 'Guyanese Critic' did not show up to give statement to police
…Police sent file for legal advice
Guyanese businessman Nazar “Shell” Mohamed has c a l l e d o u t s o c i a l m e d i a c o m m e n t a t o r M i k h a i l Rodrigues also known as the 'Guyanese Critic' , saying
t h a t t h e i n t e r v i e w h e broadcasted with a 17-yearold girl accusing his son
I n a v i d e o p o s t e d Tuesday night on Facebook, Shell Mohamed defended his son and questioned the allegations. He also linked t h e i n c i d e n t t o p e r s o n s working on behalf of the People's Progressive Party government. He said that the accusations were politically motivated, stating, “For this man to fabricate these lies… it has been confirmed that this was a plan by, you know, people that are very close to this administration.”
“I want to make it very clear that I have instilled in my family values,” he said.
Shell Mohamed added, “I'm very disturbed about it, because this is no joke, and I want to thank the public for s t a n d i n g w i t h A z r u d d i n because the plan was that if the public had bought into it and carried pressure. Then it w o u l d h a v e g o n e differently.”
He said that his son reported the matter to the police but, “up to today, the Guyanese Critic didn't show up at the station to give a statement on the issue and to identify who this individual is, what is really going on in our society I just can't understand how people can be so evil to do something like this.”
Moreover, Nazar's son Azruddin Mohamed told this p u b l i c a t i o n t h
p
t e d t h e matter to the police, the day after the interview was aired b y G u y a n e s e C r i t i c o n Facebook. He said that the report was made at the Brickdam Police Station and he was told he will be contacted for further updates but have not heard from the police since then. However, w h e n c o n t a c t e d o n W e
Commander 4 'A' Simon McBean confirmed that the
investigation and that
advice.
A z r u d d i n M o h a m e d o f s e x u a l a b u s e – w a s politically motivated.
Mohamed through his lawyers had vehemently and wholeheartedly refuted all claims of sexual misconduct,
predatory sexual behaviour against the minor child, and anyone else involved in the
(Continued on page 38)
FPSO Prosperity operating offshore Guyana
From page 37
polygraph test, administered by competent professionals, be they at the FBI, Scotland
Y a r d o r a n y o t h e r
I n t e r n a t i o n a l A g e n c y t o corroborate his denial of the allegations made against him.” The lawyers observed that what they considered to be worrying aspects of the interview. They noted that it begs belief that a minor child
a p p e a r e d o n a n a t i o n a l , public interview, with her face obscured but her parents
a b s e n t w h i l e b e i n g
i n t e r v i e w e d b y a n o t h e r adult.
M o h a m e d ' s l a w y e r s reminded that there are laws that prescribe the manner in which these interviews are to
b e c o n d u c t e d , q u e s t i o n s
o u g h t t o b e a s k e d a n d answers ought to be given forthwith, as to whether or not the minor child sought the proper help, in the proper way
A d d i t i o n a l l y , Mohamed's attorneys said that “Questions ought to be asked and answers ought to be given forthwith, as to whether or not the minor child sought the proper help, in the proper sequence. It is our considered view that any victim of sexual exploitation and/or predation, especially
a c h i l d , o u g h t t o h a v e engaged the Police, first;
s e c o n d , t h e n e c e s s a r y medical, social healthcare
a n d c o u n s e l l i n g professionals, and if as an after-thought the Media, last. If it becomes clear that that s e q u e n c e h a s n o t b e e n followed, there are more questions than answers as result of the interview.”
Omai completes 2024 drill programme at Wenot Pit
C a n a d i a n m i n i n g company, Omai Gold Mines Corp. has completed its 2024 drill programme, focusing on expanding the Wenot deposit at its 100%-owned
O m a i G o l d P r o j e c t i n Guyana.
I n a s t a t e m e n t o n Wednesday, the company
a n n o u n c e d a s s a y r e s u l t s from the final three holes drilled last year, with results from an additional eight holes at Wenot still pending f r o m i t s 2 0 2 5 d r i l l i n g activities.
T h e 2 0 2 4 d r i l l programme consisted of 26 diamond drill holes totaling 1 3 , 7 1 6 m e t e r s T h e objectives were to identify m i n e r a l i s a t i o n i n u n d e rexplored sections of the 2.5 km Wenot deposit, extend
k n o w n m i n e r a l i s a t i o n t o depths of 400-450 meters, and increase shallow drilling at West Wenot, which has potential for a starter pit.
Recently the company announced that it has raised $25 3 million through a private placement deal to fund its gold exploration and development projects.
I n J a n u a r y , O m a i launched its 2025 drilling programme, building on the s u c c e s s o f i t s 2 0 2 4 exploration efforts at one of i t s m i n i n g d e p o s i t s i n Guyana. Omai said that it aims to deliver an updated Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) by the second quarter of the year and a revised P r e l i m i n a r y E c o n o m i c Assessment (PEA) by the third quarter of 2025.
E l a i n e E l l i n g h a m , P r e s i d e n t a n d C h i e f Executive Officer (CEO) of Omai Gold Mines, noted the significance of the latest results “The balance of results from the last three drill holes from 2024 mark a strong finish to last year's d r i l l p r o g r a m m e I n p a r t i c u l a r , h o l e 9 7 intersected high-grade gold mineralization of 5.21 g/t Au o v e r 1 9 . 3 m – s h o w i n g increased grade over nearby hole 90 that was drilled from the north side,” she stated.
E l l i n g h a m a l s o highlighted the progress of the 2025 drilling campaign, which began in January with an initial plan for 10,000 meters. She said, “Our 2025 drill program commenced in
J a n u a r y, w i t h a n i n i t i a l planned 10,000m but we will potentially expand this with further success. To date, an a d d i t i o n a l 8 h o l e s h a v e already been drilled for a total of 4,880m.”
Moreover, the company is also targeting new areas for exploration. “Two of these holes were drilled at t h e C a m p Z o n e approximately 1km west of We n o t a l o n g t h e s h e a r corridor, in an area with no historical open pit mining but a few previous holes with e n c o u r a g i n g mineralization,” Ellingham explained.
O m a i h o l d s a 1 0 0 % interest in the gold project, w h i c h e n c o m p a s s e s t w o gold deposits: the shearhosted Wenot Deposit and the adjacent intrusive-hosted
Gilt Creek Deposit The
W e n o t d e p o s i t c o u l d produce 1.84 million ounces of gold over 13 years. In 2024, the company unveiled a n e n h a n c e d M i n e r a l
Resource Estimate (MRE) for its gold project located in R e g i o n S e v e n ( C u y u n iMazaruni) Guyana and has plans to update its 2 million ounces gold estimate, this y e a r O m a i p r e v i o u s l y produced 3.7 million ounces between 1993 and 2005 from the mine but shut down when g o l d p r i c e s w e r e m u c h lower
Friday
Cops smash gold smuggling ring
—Two Brazilians arrested, large quantity of gold and $26M seized
Tw o B r a z i l i a
s h a v e been arrested and a large quantity of gold and $26 million in cash have been s
Wednesday when a gold
was dismantled in Region 9. T h e s u s p e c t e d g o l d smugglers were identified a s , A l b i
salesman of 55 Boa Vista, Brazil and Erizangela Regia De Olivera, a 39-year-old clothes vendor of Lot 3 Boa Vista, Brazil.
Police in a statement said that the arrests and seizures were carried out by a Special
(SOCU) led joint-operation in Lethem, Region 9.
SOCU's Head, Deputy C
Karimbaksh said that his officers were able to disrupt
before the gold could be moved across the border
d p r o a c t i v e i n t h e i r e n f o r c e m e n t e f f o r t s , ” Karimbaksh stated.
Further, police said that it r e m a i n s r e s o l
o m b a t g o l d smuggling and dismantling networks involved in illegal activities.
“Officials continue to monitor and enforce strict measures to hold offenders a c c o u n t a b l e a n d p r e v e n t further economic losses to the country,” police assured.
I n v e s t i g a t i o n s a r e ongoing with a view of prosecution.
M e a n w h i l e , Wednesday's bust follows recent crackdowns by SOCU o n g o l d s m u g g l i n g i n Guyana. Last July, three C h i n e s e n a t i o n a l s w e r e
a r r e s t e d a t t h e R a m a d a Princess Hotel for allegedly s m u g g l i n g g o l d . S O C U ranks had found $50 million (Guyana dollars) in cash, money-counting machines and an illegal firearm during that operation.
US$214M audit dispute with ExxonM headed for arbitration
G o v t s a y s n o t
prepared to allocate more time to Exxon
T h e G o v e r n m e n t o f Guyana is still in the process o f f i n a l i s i n g a u d i t s o f ExxonMobil's expenses for t h e S t a b r o e k B l o c k , covering the periods 19992017 and 2018-2020.
The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) provided a n u p d a t e o n T h u r s d a y, following concerns raised in a Stabroek News article published on March 2, 2025. The first audit, examined US$1.7 billion in expense incurred by the oil company from 1999 to 2017. That a u d i t i d e n t i f i e d U S $ 2 1 4 million as costs that the G o v e r n m e n t o f G u y a n a should not allow Exxon to charge to the country's cost bank.
U n d e r t h e 2 0 1 6
P r o d u c t i o n S h a r i n g Agreement (PSA) governing the Stabroek Block, Exxon and its partners Hess and C N O C a r e a l l o w e d t o recover 75% to cover cost, while the remaining 25% is considered profit oil and this is shared between Guyana and the oil companies. As
s u c h , t h e a u d i t o f t h e expenses recoverable by oil c o m p a n i e s i s c r u c i a l t o a s c e r t a i n i f a c t u a l recoverable cost is being billed to the cost bank.
British firm IHS Markit conducted the first audit and presented its findings since 2021, recommending that the government disallows Exxon and its partners from r e c o v e r i n g t h e f l a g g e d US$214 million. However, since then the process has been ongoing.
In response to concerns about delays, the ministry clarified that the audit for 1 9 9 9 - 2 0 1 7 , f l a g g e d US$214,411,994. According t o t h e M N R , t h i s
c o m m e n d
n w a s acc
pted by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), a n d E x x o n M o b i l w a s informed accordingly.
“This position remains unchanged and clear, and EXXON was so advised,” t h e m i n i s t r y s a i d T h e ministry further outlined that u n d e r S e c t i o n 1 5 ( b ) o f A n n e x C t o t h e 2 0 1 6 Stabroek Block Petroleum Agreement, disputes (Continued on page 38)
Over $26M seized
Arrested: Erizangela Regia De Olivera
Arrested: Albina Filho Alves Vieira
regarding audit findings can
b e r e f e r r e d t o e x p e r t
d e t e r m i n a t i o n w i t h i n 6 0
d a y s o f n o t i f i c a t i o n
E x x o n M o b i l G u y a n a
L i m i t e d w a s o f f i c i a l l y
i n f o r m e d o f t h e f i n a l position on September 25, 2024, and later requested an extension to May 15, 2025.
“ I n i t s c a p a c i t y a s delegated pursuant to Article 6 of the 2016 Stabroek Block
A g r e e m e n t , t h e G R A furnished a response dated December 11, 2024 to MNR
r e g a r d i n g t h i s r e q u e s t ,
o u t l i n i n g t h e p r o c e s s
r e q u i r e d p r i o r t o t h e engagement of a Sole Expert and recommended that in order to afford due process that an extension be granted to January 25, 2025, given
t h e p r o v i s i o n o f t h e
additional schedules that
w e r e n o t p r e v i o u s l y provided,” MNR said. With this extension period now
p a s s e d , G R A h a s b e e n directed to proceed with the next steps required under the terms of the PSA.
F o r h i s p a r t , V i c e President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo
s t a t e d d u r i n g h i s p r e s s
c o n f e r e n c e o n T h u r s d a y afternoon that there is no room for engagement with E x x o n a n d t h e U S $ 2 1 4
m i l l i o n p o s i t i o n r e m a i n s final.
“ T h e o n l y t h i n g t h e ministry has to do now is to decide how we settle this, it's either through the prescribed process prescribed by the PSA which could ultimately end up at arbitration. There is
no bilaterally negotiation a n y m o r e o n t h e $ 2 1 4 million…” he added.
T h e s e c o n d a u d i t , covering Exxon's expenses for 2018 to 2020 and totaling
U S $ 7 3 b i l l i o n , w a s c o n d u c t e d b y t h e l o c a l
c o n s o r t i u m V H E
C o n s u l t i n g , w i t h international support from S G S a n d M a r t i n d a l e Consultants.
That final report was s u b m i t t e d t o E x x o n i n November 2024, and the company had 60 days to r e s p o n d P e r m a n e n t Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources, Joslyn M c K e n z i e , a t a p r e s s
c o n f e r e n c e i n J a n u a r y d i s c l o s e d t h a t t h e government had provided a d d i t i o n a l i n f o r m a t i o n requested by Exxon, and that the review process remains ongoing.
R e g a r d i n g t h e 2 0 1 82020 audit conducted by VHE, the ministry noted that EMGL had responded to the
audit findings and that VHE i s c u r r e n t l y r
review remains ongoing. In their statement, the m i n i
against p
emature pub
ic discussions on audits before they are completed, warning that inaccurate or incomplete i n f o r m a t i o n c o u l d b e harmful.
Saturday
PPP should refund all the Mohameds' contributions made over the past 10 years - NRF Member
B u s i n e s s m a n a n d m e m b e r o f t h e N a t u r a l R e s o u r c e F u n d ( N R F )
I n v e s t m e n t C o m m i t t e e , Te r r e n c e C a m p b e l l h a s c a l l e d o n t h e ' P e o p l e s Progressive Party (PPP) to return all contributions made to the political group over the past 10 years.
His comments came on the heels of Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo's Thursday press conference, where the General Secretary of the party not only launched a personal attack on Azruddin Mohamed, son of Nazar Mohamed, but also sought to d e f e n d t h e P P P a g a i n s t corruption allegations made by Azruddin.
In sharing a clip of Jagdeo's press conference on h i s F a c e b o o k p a g e , Campbell said, “If it is an organization with a good ethical compass, the PPP s h o u l d r e f u n d a l l contributions received in the last ten years from “wannabe gangsters” and sanctioned persons or businesses.”
F u r t h e r m o r e , i t i s Campbell's view that the weekly press conferences hosted by the Vice President, at Freedom House, are far from civil.
According to him, “This is where the abusive culture in Guyana gets its steroids. For those of you who find this weekly abuse show funny, don't complain when the school kids are fighting with friends cheering. Don't complain about road rage.
D o n ' t c o m p l a i n a b o u t domestic violence.
This guy is the chief promoter of the culture of abuse and incivility that engulfs Guyana.”
T h e b u s i n e s s m a n ' s comments were hinged on Jagdeo's statements about t h e M o h a m e d ' s O n Thursday, Jagdeo said, “I h a v e m e t A z r u d d i n M o h a m e d o n a f e w
occasions and I think he is a wanna be gangster who can't string two coherent thoughts together and if he had to confront APNU, he would s**t a bucket load.”
J a g d e o s a i d h e s a w Azruddin Mohamed make disparaging comments about the Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha and even implied that he is corrupt.
O n t h e c o n t r a r y, t h e
General Secretary of the party said Mustapha has been “working his ass off” to assist farmers over the years while Azruddin has been busy “evading taxes.”
Jagdeo made it clear that w h i l e t h e P P P s u p p o r t s citizens' right to express themselves, this does not mean the party would not defend itself.
T h e V i c e P r e s i d e n t e x p l a i n e d t h a t N a z a r Mohamed made a statement recently that seeks to create the impression that he is either a victim of “PPP excesses”.
J a g d e o h o w e v e r reminded that the family was a c c u s e d o f s m u g g l i n g 10,000 kilograms of gold out of Guyana and evading over US$50M in taxes. He argued t h a t t h e U n i t e d S t a t e s Ambassador, Nicole Theriot previously pointed to the multiyear investigation that w a s c o n d u c t e d , w i t h a mountain of evidence filed.
Instead of addressing that, he said Nazar Mohamed p o i n t e d t o a n o t h e r b u s i n e s s m a n , a l l e g e d l y p u r c h a s i n g g o l d f r o m
V e n e z u e l a , w i t h o u t consequences. To this end the politician urged that any evidence in this regard be provided to the U.S. and all d e t a i l s s h a r e d w i t h t h e public.
Further, in addressing statements made by Nazar
M o h a m e d o n T u e s d a y, Jagdeo said, “It's a gross misrepresentation to claim,
as he did, that it's only American companies that could face sanctions if they a s s o c i a t e w i t h t h e Mohamed's.”
According to him, this is c l e a r l y o u t l i n e d i n t h e statement issued by the U.S. Jagdeo quoted a section o f t h e s t a t e m e n t w h i c h
o u t l i n e s , “ I n a d d i t i o n ,
financial institutions and other persons that engage in c e r t a i n t r a n s a c t i o n s o r activities with the sanctioned entities and individuals may e x p o s e t h e m s e l v e s t o sanctions or be subject to an e n f o r c e m e n t a c t i o n t h e p r o h i b i t i o n s i n c l u d e t h e making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods or services by, to or for the benefit of any designated person.”
As such, he pointed out that persons who receive c o n t r i b u t i o n s f r o m t h e M o h a m e d ' s c a n f a c e sanctions.
Jagdeo concluded that the Mohameds are interested now in politics to shield the f a m i l y f r o m s a n c t i o n s imposed by the U.S. Nazar Mohamed in a public statement this week broke his silence on the U.S. sanctions. He said there were d e l i b e r a t e misrepresentations on the sanctions which in reality prevent him and his son from conducting business with U.S. citizens and companies.
Be that as it may, he pointed to his two businesses suffering locally, as his gold license was terminated and efforts to renew licenses for vessels owned by the family were denied. He said, “To s a y t h a t a n y o n e w h o associates themselves with the Mohamed's would be sanctioned is ludicrous.”
The businessman went on to point out his loyalty to the PPP over the years, though financial support was offered to other parties. “All m
associated with the PPP
I worked with Forbes
country,” he said.
To this end, he said he could not understand the hostility being meted out to the family
Norton unbothered by resignation of PNCR members … says he expects more to leave
Leader of the 'Peoples National Congress Reform (PNCR), Aubrey Norton, is unbothered by the recent
expects more members to leave.
Norton said the departure of long-standing members does not affect the party's
strength.
Ally, a former General
Secretary of the PNCR, resigned after serving 54 years in the party, citing disrespect towards Kissoon and other women within the leadership.
K i s s o o n , a f o
M e m b e
o f P a r l i a m e n t , resigned just days earlier Their departure has fueled speculation about internal c o n f l i c t s , b u t N o r t o n
dismissed concerns about the party's stability
“I'm not concerned at all. When I became leader of this party, they were not as active and in all communities as we are. In the last three and a half years, we have been and our supporters and members are working and they are satisfied that we can beat the People's Progressive Party,” Norton said during a press conference on Friday
H e a r g u e d t h a t resignations are a normal part of political life, citing past defections from the People's Progressive Party (PPP) that did not weaken it. He referenced figures such as Ranji Chandisingh and Vincent Teekah, noting that p o l i t i c a l p a r t i e s h a v e historically seen members shift loyalties.
“The mere idea of people leaving.
In fact, some people that leave probably allow the party to breathe, because some of the accusations made against them will no longer be targeted at the party,” he asserted.
Norton maintained that the PNCR remains strong and has been successfully mobilizing supporters.
He claimed that since 2 0 2 1 , o v e r 1 0 , 0 0 0 n e w members have joined the party, and suggested that f i n a n c i a l i n c e n t i v e s a r e influencing some of those who have chosen to leave.
“Let us also understand that the PPP has endless money to bribe people, and we are well aware that some people don't want to say who
resources,” he stated.
Despite the resignations, No
e PNCR is growing, with more people quietly supporting the party and its coalition partner, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU). He reiterated that the party is not affected by the departures and remains focused on strengthening its political position.
Member of the NRF Investment Committee, Terrence Campbell
PPP General Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo Azruddin Mohamed
Vanessa Kissoon
Amna Ally
- Garlin confirms no more Road March races for him
Machel wins 11th title amid judging controversy
Bunji Garlin performing at a fete
( T R I N I D A D
GUARDIAN) - Soca artiste
M a c h e l M o n t a n o h a s officially secured his 11th Road March title, tying with the legendary Aldwyn “Lord
K i t c h e n e r ” R o b e r t s a n d cementing his place as the
m o s t d e c o r a t e d C a r n i v a l
c o m p e t i t i o n w i n n e r i n
T r i n i d a d a n d To b a g o ’s history
But the victory is not going down well with soca artiste Ian “Bunji Garlin” Alvarez, who confirmed he will not participate in future Road March competitions.
T h e T r i n b a g o U n i f i e d
C a l y p s o O r g a n i s a t i o n ( T U C O ) a n n o u n c e d t h e
r e s u l t s a t t h e N a t i o n a l
Carnival Commission’s VIP l o u n g e a t Q u e e n ’s P a r k Savannah, Port-of-Spain, on Wednesday
M o n t a n o n a r r o w l y edged out Garlin’s by just 14 plays, with his Pardy being played 267 times to Garlin’s Carry It (253 times). Garlin also secured third place with his song Thousand, which
w a s p l a y e d 2 2 t i m e s
M o n t a n o w i l l r e c e i v e $250,000, a mobile headset with the option to port to bmobile and a one-year
u n l i m i t e d m o b i l e p l a n Beyond his 11 Road March titles, Montano’s decorated career includes victories in m u l t i p l e C a r n i v a l
c o m p e t i t i o n s f i v e S o c a Monarch titles, one Chutney
S o c a M o n a r c h , a l s o achieved this year, and one Calypso Monarch title last year However, Montano’s win has been clouded by
c o n t r o v e r s y, f o l l o w i n g claims that the competition
w a s r i g g e d C o n c e r n s
s u r f a c e d a f t e r T U C O
t a b u l a t o r S a m a n t h a Richards publicly revealed that Montano was ahead of Garlin in the race during
c e l e b r a t i o n s i n S a n F e r n a n d o o n C a r n i v a l Tuesday
W h i l e s i m i l a r i n f o r m a t i o n h a s b e e n a n o n y m o u s l y l e a k e d i n previous years, Richards and
a colleague were both fired s o o n a f t e r f o r a l l e g e d l y breaching TUCO’s code of conduct.
Ignoring the controversy, Montano took to Instagram t o c e l e b r a t e y e s t e r d a y, e x p r e s s i n g g r a t i t u d e f o r being linked to one of T&T’s most iconic musicians. “To s h a r e t h i s h o n o u r w i t h Aldwyn ‘Lord Kitchener ’ Roberts is a dream come true a n d q u i t e a s u r r e a l feeling!!!”
He also thanked his team and fans, encouraging his supporters to chase their dreams.
“I want this to be a message to all the hardworking people out there once you put in the work, you deserve a PARDY!!!
Never let anyone say you’re too young, too old, too good or not deserving of your b l e s s i n g s E v e r y o n e deserves a PARDY!!!”
A d d r e s s i n g c o n c e r n s about the fairness of the competition at yesterday’s media conference, TUCO
p r e s i d e n t A i n s l e y K i n g reassured the public the
r e s u l t s w e r e l e g i t i m a t e “There’s nothing like any mafia in the Road March,
b e c a u s e I d o n ’ t t h i n k
a n y b o d y w o u l d t a k e a chance like that because anybody could come and set people, put people in the different points and count. So, we are not we don’t i n t e n d t o a c t u a l l y compromise ourselves like t h a t , ” K i n g s a i d H e , however, acknowledged the incident with Richards and promised stronger measures to prevent a similar situation in the future.
“It was surprising for us, ” he said “They were briefed but what else could w e d o ? B e c a u s e t h e y received a brief and that still took place. We’ll just have to make sure that we have the right people, ” he added
P a r d y s o n g w r i t e r A n d r e Jeffers celebrated securing his first Road March title with Montano, though it was
not his first time winning the competition.
“In this particular race, I thought what was really interesting was that we were coming from behind, right. Carry It was an amazing song. Bunji is the people’s champion and it’s a song that resonated so strongly, so having to catch up to that and eventually just tip it at the line took a lot of work, took a lot of patience. It took a lot of
us having to trust Machel.”
C o n t a c t e d a f t e r t h e
r e s u l t s w e r e a n n o u n c e d , Garlin remained undaunted, stating that both he and his w i f e , F a y - A n n L y o n sAlvarez, had won and lost the Road March over the years.
In a video on Instagram on Tuesday, Lyons-Alvarez had said she and her husband would be pulling out of
(Continued on page 46)
Soca superstar, Machel Montano
CONSUMER CONCERNS: PHAGWAH SHUBH! HAPPY PHAGWAH!
Phagwah or Holi and Diwali are the two most ancient holy days celebrated in Guyana in that their provenance could be traced to the late Bronze Age. This year, Phagwah will fall on Friday, 14th March. It falls on a different date each year of the solar calendar which G u y a n a u s e s b e c a u s e Phagwah is computed on the lunar calendar Indeed, all holy days of Islam and Christianity similarly use the lunar calendar and likewise fall on different dates from year to year
In Guyana, the festival is more generally known as Phagwah but worldwide it is more usually called Holi and we will use 'Holi' for it in the rest of the article.
Holi, like all ancient festivals, has had various traditions attached to it as it traversed the centuries. The most ancient tradition of the origin of Holi is most likely as a Spring Festival.
In the Temperate Zone, the passing of the cold bareness of Winter and the advent of Spring with its new life and fruitfulness of the Earth was always a time of celebration in Agricultural Societies. Holi, with its general house cleaning and sanitizing surroundings, its communal feasting, singing, dancing and atmosphere of abandonment to fun with the sprinkling of coloured water and powders on each other and the making of new f r i e n d s a n d t h e f u l l participation, of men and w o m e n w a s a u n i q u e celebration.
Another Holi tradition is the celebration of marital l o v e i n t h e p e r s o n s o f Krishna and his consort Radha. Krishna asked his mother why was it that he was so dark in complexion as compared with Radha who was very fair
His mother told him that difference in complexion was of no importance and p l a y f u l l y t o l d h i m t h a t c o l o u r e d p o w d e r c o u l d change Radha's complexion. Krishna and Radha joined in the Holi celebrations and sprayed each other with various colours expressing their love and all the citizens imitated their example.
The most important tradition is the story of Prahalad which affirms that Good will always triumph over Evil and that belief and commitment to God will always protect the believer from all dangers: King Hiranyakashipu was ruler of a kingdom in northern India
w h o p r a c t i s e d t h e m o s t
s t r i n g e n t a u s t e r i t i e s
(tapasya) until he came to the notice of Lord Brahma who wished to reward him. He asked Lord Brahma for the gift of Immortality but the Lord told him that was impermissible, but he could ask for other boons. He asked that he could never be killed by either Man or Animal; at either night or day; or on the earth or in the air in space and those gifts were duly conferred on him.
H i r a n y a k a s h i p u w a s i m m e d i a t e l y t r a n s f o r m e d into a megalomaniac and declared that he was God and must be worshipped and not Lord Vishnu.
All the citizens had to conform on the pain of death i f t h e y d i d n o t P r i n c e Prahalad, Hiranyakashipu's s m a l l s o n k e p t o n worshipping Lord Vishnu in defiance of his father who tried to kill him on several occasions- he was thrown off a cliff, thrown down a well, put in a cage with maneating tigers and thrown among fierce cobras, but he w a s r e s c u e d o n e v e r y occasion.
Eventually, he was given the deadliest poison to drink but this was turned into nectar in his mouth.
H o l i k a , Hiranyakashipu's sister who was a witch, offered to help h e r b r o t h e r s o l v e h i s problem.
She possessed a coat which protected the wearer from being burnt by fire. Wearing the coat, she would take Prahalad in her lap, sit on a pyre which was then lighted. When the pyre was burnt out, however, Prahalad emerged alive and well but Holika was burnt to ash. Prahalad was saved because the sudden swirl of the flames blew the coat off
Holika and covered Prahalad who was thus protected from the fire.
Next afternoon, the king, in a demented state, went to the main temple where his son had also gone to worship Lord Vishnu.
A s t h e k i n g s t r u t t e d about proclaiming that he was God, Prahalad told him that God was everywhere and he angrily unsheathed his sword and slashed the largest column in the temple shouting "if God is there, let him come out".
A s h e d i d s o , L o r d Vishnu, in the form of a Man-Lion, Narsingh, sprang
They fought each other until they got to the entrance of t h e t e m
s k Narsingh managed to grab the king by the throat, sat down, got him across his knees and strangled him.
Hiranyakashipu was thus killed by neither Man nor Animal; neither at night nor day since it was dusk; and neither on earth nor in space since it was on Narsingh's lap he met his demise.
T h e c i t i z e n s w e r e overjoyed at the death of the tyrant and his wicked sister Holika and celebrated by burning effigies of Holika in large bonfires in the evening and next morning erupted into spontaneous joy with singing, dancing, feasting and sprinkling each other with coloured water and coloured powders and this tradition continued in all future Holi celebrations. In later centuries, these colours became stylized into fourRed, Green, Blue and Goldwith each having its own symbolism.
A n d s o , w e a g a i n felicitate our readers with Holi Shubh!!
PANCAP to host 9th meeting of national AIDS programme managers
The Pan Caribbean
P a r t n e r s h i p Against HIV and A I D S ( PA N C A P ) h a s announced that its Ninth Meeting of National AIDS
P r o g r a m m e ( N A P ) Managers and Key Partners is scheduled to take place from March 17 to 19, 2025, in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.
This pivotal event will
b r i n g N A P m a n a g e r s ,
regional health officials,
c i v i l s o c i e t y
r e p r e s e n t a t i v e s , international partners, and k e y s t a k e h o l d e r s t o evaluate progress, address g a p s , f o s t e r i n n o v a t i o n ,
b u i l d c a p a c i t y , a n d strengthen partnerships to
a d v a n c e s u s t a i n a b l e a n d impactful HIV responses in the Caribbean
According to a press release by PANCAP, the m e e t i n g w i l l f o c u s o n
c r i t i c a l a r e a s s u c h a s advancing HIV prevention, t r e a t m e n t , a n d c a r e
s t r a t e g i e s , a d d r e s s i n g persistent challenges in the
r e g i o n a l H I V r e s p o n s e , l e v e r a g i n g i n n o v a t i v e
t e c h n o l o g i e s a n d
a p p r o a c h e s t o i m p r o v e
h e a l t h o u t c o m e s , a n d strengthening partnerships to ensure a sustainable and inclusive response
D r S h a n t i S i n g h
A n t h o n y , C o o r d i n a t o r , K n o w led g e M an ag emen t, PANCAP Coordinating Unit (PCU), stated, “Once again, w e p r o v i d e a u n i q u e platform for NAP Managers,
policymakers, civil society o r g a n i s a t i o n s , a n d i n t e r n a t i o n a l p a r t n e r s t o m e e t a n d e x c h a n g e knowledge, build capacity, align efforts, share insights,
a n d d e v e l o p a c t i o n a b l e strategies to achieve a more coordinated and coherent regional HIV response.”
D i r e c t o r o f t h e PA N C A P C o o r d i n a t i n g
U n i t , D r. We n d y Te l g t
E m a n u e l s o n a d d e d , “While the Caribbean is m a k i n g c o m m e n d a b l e
strides towards achieving
t h e 9 5 - 9 5 - 9 5 p r e v e n t i o n
t a rg e t s , s o m e g a p s a n d
c h a l l e n g e s t h r e a t e n t h e
s u s t a i n a b i l i t y o f t h e progress A s i n t e r n a t i o n a l d o n o r f u n d i n g d i m i n i s h e s , t h e
u rg e n c y t o t r a n s i t i o n t o s u s t a i n a b l e , l o c a l l yd r i v e n s o l u t i o n s h a s n e v e r b e e n g r e a t e r ” S h e a l s o e m p h a s i s e d , “ N o w i s t h e t i m e f o r r e g i o n a l g o v e r n m e n t s , t h e p r i v a t e
s e c t o r , c i v i l s o c i e t y o r g a n i z a t i o n s , s t a k e h o l d e r s a n d
c o m m u n i t i e s t o u n i t e a n d i n v est in resilient health systems and prioritize longterm strategies that ensure no one is left behind.”
T h e P C U r e c o g n i s e s a n d t h a n k s t h e C A R I C O M
S e c r e t a r i a t , T h e G l o b a l
F u n d , a n d t h e P a n -
A m e r i c a n H e a l t h
O rg a n i z a t i o n ( PA H O ) f o r
s u p p o r t i n g t h e N i n t h
M e e t i n g o f N a t i o n a l A I D S
P r o g r a m ( N A P ) M a n a g e r s a n d K e y P a r t n e r s
Dr. Shanti Singh Anthony, Coordinator, Knowledge Management, PCU
PA N C A P i s a C a r i b b e a n r e g i o n a l p a r t n e r s h i p o f g o v e r n m e n t s , r e g i o n a l
c i v i l s o c i e t y organizations,
r e g i o n a l i n s t i t u t i o n s a n d organizations, bilateral and multilateral agencies and contributing donor partners established on 14 February 2001.
PA N C A P p r o v i d e s a
s t r u c t u r e d a n d u n i f i e d
a p p r o
Dr. Wendy Telgt Emanuleson, Director, PANCAP Coordinating Unit (PCU)
GNBS IN FOCUS APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR GNBS NATIONAL QUALITY AWARDS 2025
plays a vital r o l e i n b o t h s e r v i c e d e l i v e r y and product manufacturing,
d r i v i n g c o n s u m e r
c o n f i d e n c e , b o o s t i n g
c o m p e t i t i v e n e s s , a n d fuelling business growth.
To recognise businesses
a n d o r g a n i s a t i o n s t h a t demonstrate the application of standards and quality, the Guyana National Bureau of
S t a n d a r d s ( G N B S ) i n F e b r u a r y, l a u n c h e d t h e 2025 edition of its renown
b u s i n e s s a w a r d s – t h e
N a t i o n a l Q u a l i t y Aw a r d s (NQA).
By participating in this prestigious event, standards compliant businesses will be
a b l e t o s h o w c a s e t h e i r commitment to quality, and the most successful will be r e c o g n i s e d a n d a w a r d e d
T h e a w a r d c a t e g o r i e s i n c l u d e O v e r a l l
Wi n n e r s , C u s t o m e r F o c u s ,
Continuous Improvement, E n v i r o n m e n t a l I n i t i a t i v e s and Occupational Safety and Health (OSH).
A d d i t i o n a l s u r p r i s e a w a r d s w i l l a l s o b e announced at the NQA 2025. Since its inception in 2 0 1 7 , t h i s b i e n n i a l p r o g r a m m e h a s r e c o r d e d continual growth. In the first year, the NQA recorded eighteen (18) participants; in 2 0 1 9 , p a r t i c i p a t i o n increased to twenty-one (21) and then thirty-five (35) in 2021.
A l m o s t d o u b l i n g i n
2 0 2 3 , t h e N Q A t o t a l l e d sixty-one (61) businesses, of which eighteen (18) were small businesses and ten (10) were agro processors. Interested participants of the 2025 NQA have until March 31, 2025, to submit applications in the following categories: manufacturing, services, small businesses
(involved in manufacturing and service) or Micro/Agro processing.
B
transformation of materials, substances or components into new products while businesses in the services sector are defined as those which earn revenue through
benefits to consumers. Small businesses are those which employ fewer than twentyfive (25) employees, earn $60M or less and have assets
enterprises employ less than ten (10) employees and earns $40M or less.
O
submitted, the GNBS will proceed to shortlist those a
eligibility requirements and
finalise the list of businesses qualified to vie for these coveted awards.
To establish the winners, businesses will be assessed b a s e d o n s t r i c t , p r eestablished criteria within their categories.
Application forms are
or can be uplifted from the GNBS Head office, National E
Sophia, Georgetown, or any
of our sub-offices. Completed application forms can be submitted in s e a l e d e n v e l o p e s t o t h e GNBS Head office or via e
marketing@gnbsgy.org with
Quality Awards.”
The GNBS encourages all local businesses to take
practices, which can guide
future improvements. Further, participation will inspire others to invest in standards and quality, thereby increasing business
uniformity, and customer confidence across various sectors of the local economy For further information, kindly contact GNBS on
0064/65/66 or 219-0069 or
(GNBS)
The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe
In a land called , where magic filled t h e a
roamed freely, four siblings named Peter, Susan, Edmund
themselves on the adventure of a lifetime.
They had discovered this magical place quite by accident, through a wardrobe in an old, mysterious house they were staying in. As they stepped into Narnia, the world around them was covered in a thick blanket of snow, the trees glittered with ice, and the air was crisp and cold.
The children were both amazed and a little scared. It was unlike anything they had ever seen. Lucy, the youngest, had visited Narnia once before and told her siblings about it, but they hadn't believed her Now, seeing it for themselves, they knew that her story was true.
As they wandered through the snowy forest, a cheerful beaver appeared, waving them over “Hello there!” the beaver called out. “You must be the sons of Adam and
The things that make me happy
by Uncle Roy
daughters of Eve. You're
St.
you're here.”
The beaver led them to his cozy home by the river, where he introduced them to Mrs. Beaver Together, they explained that Narnia was under the rule of the evil White Witch, who had cast a spell over the land, making it always winter but never Christmas.
T h e B e a
s a l s o spoke of Aslan, the great
prophesied to return and bring spring back to the l a n d “ A s l a n i s o n t h e move,” said Mr Beaver with a twinkle in his eye. “He is gathering his forces to fight the Witch and free Narnia from her cold grip.”
The children were excited and a bit nervous. They felt as if they were part of something important, something that could change everything. Suddenly, a howl echoed through the woods. “It's the Witch's secret police!” Mr Beaver whispered. “Quickly, we must leave!”
The group left the beaver's house and hurried through the forest, hoping to find Aslan before the White Witch's forces found them. As they reached a small clearing, they were met by a joyful sight: the snow was melting, and the ground was turning green. Flowers began to bloom, and birds started singing. “Aslan is near!” cried Mrs. Beaver
They soon arrived at the Stone Table, a place of great power, where Aslan stood, m a j
flowed like a river of sunshine, and his eyes w e r e k i n d a n
I feel so nice when I eat Ice cream, cookies and fruit cake, Chocolate, candy and other sweets, As well as burgers, pizza and milk-shake.
I also get very happy When I celebrate my birthday Go to the park, seawall and creek, And enjoy Christmas and other holidays.
But the thing that makes me feel the best, And makes me proud indeed, Is when I try to help someone, Or give them something they need.
I start by doing more work at home, Then try to make my family feel good; Next I am kinder to all my friends, And help my neighbours in any way I could.
Patrick's Day Bath Bomb: The Shamrock Shake Bomb
Vanilla Mint Shamrock Shake Bath Bomb recipe. Tints the water green and smells like a Shamrock Shake!
Ingredients
½ cup baking soda
¼ cup Citric Acid
¼ cup corn starch
¼ cup epsom salts
¼ teaspoon fractionated coconut oil
¼ teaspoon peppermint essential oil
¼ teaspoon vanilla oleoresin or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
approximately 20 drops of green gel food coloring
**optional** sugar sprinkles and a few candy shamrock sprinkles
Supplies
3 " diameter round bath bomb mold bowl
whisk
Instructions
Mix all dry ingredients, then add the rest, m i x i n g w h i l e a d d i n g ( T h e o n l y w e t ingredient that may generate a little fizz is the vanilla extract, so be ready to whisk that right in).
If using sprinkles and candy shamrocks put them in one side of the Mold before filling. A teaspoon & a few candy sprinkles are plenty
Press half the mixture into each side. You want to pack it well AND overfill a bit, then press together firmly Allow to rest for a few hours before removing from Mold if you can.
Drop in your bath and enjoy! Notes: Makes one large bath bomb. (Beauty Crafter.com)
We l c o m e , P e t e r,
Edmund, and Lucy,” Aslan i
voice. “You have come at a time of great need. Together,
Narnia.”
Aslan then led them to his camp, where creatures of all kinds centaurs, fauns, d w a r f s , a n
animals—were preparing for
lead my army, brave Peter,” he said. Peter was nervous but felt a surge of courage and responsibility “I will do my best,” he promised. T
White Witch and her forces was fierce The Witch rode into battle on a sleigh pulled by wolves, her eyes cold and c
wand, she turned anyone who stood against her into stone
across the battlefield, filling his troops with strength To be continued...
People often feel that, because there is nothing really exciting happening to them at any one time, they cannot enjoy life. The fact is that real enjoyment of life does not come from thrills or extraordinary events.
O n e c a n d e r i v e t h e greatest pleasures from the simple things around at any time – a walk in one's
neighbourhood, observing the beauty of nature in the trees, the birds and animals, even the people going about their everyday tasks.
Of course, we all know the joy we feel when we join with family members and friends in various activities which can be most uplifting to our spirit. The list can be
endless if you tax your own mind to come up with things to do.
One of the ways in which you can increase your happiness is to be content with what you have. Each of us at any given time must have what is needed to make us h a p p y i f w e o n l y appreciate it, and do not l u s t o v e r w h a t o t h e r people possess. Your own health and talents, the love of your family, how you are being successful at what you are doing, no matter how small this may appear, all these can make you feel contented.
Happiness is a choice, and you can be happy in any circumstances if you have a contented mind. This must thus prove to
W hen we appreciate that our happiness is ours for the taking, and not dependent on other people or things, we will keep working to make it a reality.
St rive to b e Happy Choose to be Happ y
you that your happiness is m
control, although this can be enhanced by other factors, such as having a good job and career, which will take care of your financial needs, and moreover make you feel w
contribution you make to the organisation for which you work, as well as to society as a whole.
Contributing voluntarily to some community effort can also provide this result. This means that you should not always directly pursue happiness, but it will be just as successful to engage in habits associated with this feeling.
factor, and maybe the most
o beyond all others in your achievement of a happy life is spirituality When we earnestly indulge in prayer to
g thanks and asking for the things we need, we can be assured that happiness will eventually come about. This can be augmented by meditation, which has been found to help in the ability to focus on what we need in our lives, and so produce results that can lead to well-being in our spirit, as well as our mind and body
Tough Binox by Krazydad
“T he f inished puzzle should be f illed with Xs and Os. Hor izontally and ver tically, there should never be a continuous r un of the same symbol longer than 2. T here are an equal number of Xs and Os in each row and column. All rows are unique. All columns are unique, too."
To every man born on this earth Of whatever strain or level he be, He must bear his share of pain and strife, And struggle to grow and achieve prosperity
So let not the hardships you suffer Take away from the joys that are your due, In whatever condition you find yourself, Happiness is but yours to choose,
We need only to look around; To see so much to make us glad, They are the things we need to do, To glean all the happiness that could be had.
We first must take time to socialise, With our loving family and friends, Giving priority to our mate and kin, And working together to secure our ends.
Celebrating our wins, enjoying our work, Giving service to those with less, Exercise, diet and bodily care Together will keep us blessed.
Then above all we must strive To serve and thank the Lord, Have hope and faith in His good grace, And live according to His word.
Women of Aviation Worldwide Week spotlight…
Felesha Johnson broke barriers as the first female female flight dispatcher at GCA A
BY: CHRISTAL YONG
F e l e s h a J o h n s o n ’ s journey in aviation is one of passion, persistence, and breaking new ground. As the first female to hold a Flight Dispatcher ’s License at the
G u y a n a C i v i l Av i a t i o n
A u t h o r i t y ( G C A A ) , h e r accomplishments have not only marked milestones in her career but have also
opened doors for future generations of women in aviation.
S p e a k i n g w i t h T h e Waterfalls, Johnson said that her journey into aviation
b e g a n i n a m o m e n t o f serendipity
She said it was during her secondary school years at St.
Stanislaus College while attending a career day event.
The young lady was drawn to a booth where female pilots shared their stories.
She said, “When I was in 2 n d F o r m a t S e c o n d a r y School, UG (the University of Guyana) had a career day
and the school carried us. They were female pilots at a booth presenting and after l i s t e n i n g a n d i n t e r a c t i n g with them, I have always wanted to become a pilot.”
That encounter ignited a passion that would shape her career
T h o u g h t h e r o a d t o success was anything but e a s y, J o h n s o n s a i d s h e persisted.
When the young lady embarked on her aviation
e d u c a t i o n , s h e f a c e d a unique set of challenges. Unlike many of her peers at the time, she came from a background that was not d i r e c t l y c o n n e c t e d t o aviation.
“ I f a c e d m a n y challenges as the programme was now starting out and (the) rest of the students were from the aviation industry itself,” she explained. To further complicate matters, Johnson had to balance her coursework with a full-time job, a demanding
First female to hold a Flight Dispatcher ’s License at the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Felesha Johnson
combination that tested her resolve. Yet, she persevered, drawing strength from the e n c o u r a g e m e n t o f h e r teachers and the support of her mentors.
H e r h a r d w o r k a n d
d e t e r m i n a t i o n e v e n t u a l l y paid off. After attending the Harry Wendt Aeronautical
E n g i n e
i n g S c h o o l a n d King Sky Flight Academy, she not only earned her p i l o t ’s l i c e n s e b u t a l s o became the first female at the GCAA to receive a Flight Dispatcher ’s License.
It was a momentous achievement, marking the beginning of a career that would continue to break new g r o u n d f o r w o m e n i n aviation.
Today, Johnson serves as a Technical Officer in the Drones Department at the GCAA, further solidifying her place as a trailblazer in t h
n s
c
Reflecting on her time at King Sky Flight Academy, s h e d e s c r i b e s i t a s a transformative experience, one that took her to a new
c o u n t r y, p r e s e n t i n g b o t h c h a l l e n g e s a n d opportunities.
“It shaped me a lot. I had great teachers to push me to the best I can and with my
s u b j e c t s , I w a s a b l e t o achieve transitioning into the aviation sector easily,” she related.
Johnson continued, “My experience at the school was excellent especially King Sky Flight Academy It was a whole other country and new c h a l l e n g e s a n d o p p o r t u n i t i e s F l i g h t training was exhilarating and challenging but it was well worth it.”
Moreover, for Johnson, t h e k e y t o s u c c e s s i n
Machel wins 11th title amid...
From page 40 future Road March races because the integrity of the c o m p e t i t i o n h a d b e e n compromised by the judge’s conduct On Wednesday, Garlin recalled that they have often been in the top three against Montano for many years. However, he t o o e x p r e s s e d d i s a p p o i n t m e n t o v e r t h e TUCO judge’s conduct and defended his wife’s decision
aviation, and in life, lies in constant self-improvement.
“ I w o u l d a d v i s e t o always study and try to elevate yourself because the aviation industry is always a d v a n c i n g , e s p e c i a l l y t e c h n o l o g y w i s e , ” s h e advised.
H e r b e l i e f i n t h e importance of self-study is m a t c h e d o n l y b y h e r c
and achievements in aviation.a
confidence and strength.
“
mentally strong.
What she said is based on what we saw it would make sense that we pull square from this thing, ” Garlin said. Garlin added that the j u d g e ’ s s t a t e m e n t h a d damaged their trust in the competition.
“Because, for a judge to outrightly come and do that, right, ain’t no telling what some of the other judges might be thinking or not thinking. So, you have now damaged the trust factor of t h i s c o m p e t i t i o n , w h i c h
t o s t e p a w a y f r o m t h e competition. “Nothing she did in that video she posted was wrong. She never said anything a b o u t a n y p a r t i c u l a r i n d i v i d u a l w h o ’s i n t h e competition or anything like that.
already, a lot of people have been calling into question for a long, long, long time.”
G a r l i n e x p l a i n e d , however, that he does not actively market his music, relying instead on its organic growth among fans.
While he believes an overhaul of the judging system for the Road March c o m p e t i t i o n m a y b e necessary, he stressed that the public must first be made fully aware of the existing competition rules. Attempts t
backlash she has faced were unsuccessful.
d unshakable belief in her
As she continues to rise within the aviation sector, her journey serves as an inspiration to young women everywhere, proving that with hard work, dedication, and self-confidence, the sky is truly the limit.
This field is usually a male dominated one and f e m a l e s t e n d t o b e o v e r l o o k e d o r underestimated. With these qualities, the journey ahead would be something that you can overcome no matter the obstacles,” Johnson told The Waterfalls. Ms. Johnson’s story is o n e o f r e s i l i
Felesha Johnson, standing confidently next to a plane, flashing a bright smile that reflects her passion
Faith Corrica
SHARES PERSONAL JOURNEY OF FAITH WITH HER NEW SINGLE ‘PERFECT’
By Franwca Fortune
Through her new single ‘Perfect’, Guyanese gospel singer Faith Corrica is giving Guyanese a peak into her walk of faith With the song released on Saturday, Corrica
h o p e s t o e n c o u r a g e a n d inspire listeners to lean into God’s divine and perfect plan for their lives.
T h e s i n g e r / s o n g w r i t e r
told The Waterfalls that her musical journey began at the tender age of three She said her first time singing in public was at early teenage years at church events. There she grew the confidence needed to begin ministering at large
gospel concerts, worship nights, and othe
events across Guyana.
Since then, the singer moved on to make a name for herself on the gospel scene both locally even earning herself the Demroc Music award for Female Gospel Artist for the years 2022 and 2023
Corrica also delved into genres like Soca and Calypso
S h e p e r f o r m e d i n l o c a l competitions and became a
t w o - t i m e s e n i o r c a l y p s o monarch for the years 2021 and 2022 She said that she sings mainly gospel but she also has a passion for calypso and inspirational sounds.
The worship leader noted
h o w e v e r t h a t h e r h e a r t remains in gospel music
S h e r e l a t e d t h a t h e r
personal journey with God continues to inspire her to write music “I’ve always loved worship Worship is more than just a song; it’s an experience and a lifestyle I wanted to write songs that reflected my testimony and encouraged others to draw closer to God.” she said. Her music has indeed made an impact as the singer noted the positive feedback she received from friends and family “I realized the impact music has on people’s lives Many would tell me how a song I sang helped them thr o u g h t o u g h m o m e n t s That pushed me to take things to the next level and began recording music and sharing it with a wider audience,” Corrica shared
She told The Waterfalls that in December 2024, she was given the opportunity to
Nurse for including her in such an amazing event.
O n M a r c h 8 , 2 0 2 5 , Corrica released her newest single called ‘Perfect’ She shared that the song was written in the earlier part of 2024, and she believed it came from the Holy Spirit because herself and team already knew the approach they were going to take for the production. She added that the process was filled with endless prayer and dedication.
The singer noted that she was privileged enough to
sing at one of the biggest gospel concerts in Guyana, ‘Kingdom Connect’ She related that the connection she had with the audience and other singers as well as the
Sammy Medas and Jaron
work with an incredible production crew who worked t i r e l e s s l y t o p r o d u c e a seamless production Her production team consisted of her producer Joshua Nedd, her bassist Jonathon Foga
f r o m J a m a i c a , J o e l Campbell who worked on
Aux programming, Elion Campbell who worked on
Electric and Acoustic guitars
a n d o n e o f t h e b e s t drummers in Guyana, Adiel Cummings to bring this song to life.
C o r r i c a t o l d t h i s Magazine that she has been working tirelessly on her new a l b u m c a l l e d ‘ B e a u t i f u l ’ which will be launched on June 7, 2025 She added that the launch event will be a night of worship, and there will be special performances from other gospel artistes.
The album is a collection of songs that reflect her journey, her worship, and her h e a r t f o r G o d “ I ’ v e collaborated with talented musicians, producers, and w o r s h i p
she said.
D u r i n g h e r m u s i c a l journey and preparing for the launch, Corrica experienced a few challenges like finding the right resources to record and produce her own music, balancing ministry with her personal life and pushing through moments of doubt and uncertainty However, s h e d i d n o t l e t t h e s e challenges prevent her from achieving her goal.
Whenever she was faced with any challenges, she would pray and keep trusting God to continue to show her the way “ T h r o u g h p r a y e r , perseverance, and trusting G o d , I a l s o s u r r o u n d e d
myself with people who kept me encouraged Whenever challenges came, I reminded m y s e l f o f w h y I started because this is my calling,” she asserted
C o r r i c a s h a r e d t h a t despite everything, she has one of the best support systems; people who would always be there to take her through her journeys
“I’ve been blessed with an a m a z i n g s u p p o r t system my family, friends, partner and everyone who has been encouraging me along the way It hasn’t always been easy, but their prayers, love, and support have kept me going ”
The gospel artiste’s longterm goal is to continue growing as a worship leader and songwriter, to release more music that touches lives, and to expand her ministry internationally. She also has a desire to be a mentor and a supporter to other upcoming worshippers and musicians. Her wish is to one day collaborate with international gospel artiest like Sinach, Tasha Cobbs L e o n a r d , o r J o h n m a r k Wiggan.
Faith Corrica can be f o u n d o n a l l p l a t f o r m s present.
Follow her on socials
Facebook: Faith Corrica
Instagram: Faith Corrica subscribe to YouTube: Faith Corrica
Guyanese gospel artiste, Faith Corrica
Melinda Stephens
Meet the delightful
Melinda Stephens
This beauty is a Guyanese based in the United States who loves fashion and interacting with young children. Among Melinda’s life goals are making a great impact in the lives of children, traveling the world and living life to the fullest. Her hobbies include playing dress up and shopping. Her favourite quote is ‘If you don’t have the best of everything, make the best of everything you have.’
US$12.7M Hotel and Theme Park coming to Region Three
The design of the 200 by 30 feet wave pool to be included at the facility
By Davina Bagot
A m o n g t h e p l a n n e d infrastructure developments to take place in Region Three is a one of a kind five-storey h o t e l a n d t h e m e p a r k , already under construction.
The developer, Krishna Persaud has submitted a
A
( E PA
approval for the hotel in Middlesex Village, Canal Number Two Polder, West Bank Demerara.
already secured some of the key regulatory approvals; and is currently actively
development of the proposed multi-purpose facility
The plan includes the construction of a five storey
inclusive of self-contained
deluxe suites; a conference
h a l l w i t h r o o f t o p d e c k ; c o n t e m p o r a r y b a r w i t h poolside amenities for fine dining; a restaurant; tennis c o u r t ; g y m ; m a s s a g e parlour; two movie theatres; pool and water park slides a r e a ; a t h e m e p a r k ; recreational park as well as a garden and petting zoo.
The proposed project
will be developed on a
37.8143 acres-plot and is expected to cost US$12.7
million. There was no clear indication of how many persons will be employed during the operation of the f a c i l i t y o n c e c o m p l e t e d C o n s t r u c t i o n o f a l l t h e p r o p o s e d
c t components is expected to last between eight to 10 years.
The Project Summary e x p l a
which has already begun, involves the cons
ction and subsequent operation of a stylish five storey 59 room hotel with restaurant and a strip mall with associated
Construction of the five-storey hotel is ongoing
parking lot facilities.”
Meanwhile, Phase two which is expected to follow will see the construction of a W a v e P o o l a n d t h e installation of water park slides. The wave pool which will be located aback the hotel will be 200 feet by 30 f
t T h i s p o
w i l l b e e q u i p p e d w i t h a compression jet system to c r e a t e a r t i f i c i a l w a v e s similar to those in the ocean. This area which will have a b a r a n d e n t e r t a i n m e n t systems will be equipped
Continued on page 56
Yandara's Glam Spa providing beauty care and spa services to the people of Region Nine
By Allyiah Allicock
t h e l i t t l e encou r a g e m ent, which we can g i v e t o s o m e one can make a big difference in their life for the better and Yandara Sophia Singh, is living proof.
The young entrepreneur who hails from Lethem, Region Nine is the proud founder and owner of Yandara's Glam Spa, a newly opened spa venture which offers a variety of service such as waxing, m a s s a g e , e y e l a s h e x t e n s i o n s , facials and moon baths, just to name a few
Located at Toucan Drive 142, Phase Two, Lethem, Yandara's Glam Spa officially opened its doors on February 3, 2025, but according to Singh, it initially started on October 24, 2024.
“It's never too late to start on your dream, never give up, and never lose hope, have faith in yourself.”
Sharing how her business journey began, Singh said that it was all inspired by her wonderful friend, Antonia.
R e c a l l i n g t h e conversation, Singh shared, “Well one day, she came to visit our family and we were 'gyaffing' about massage and waxing then my mother said to o n i a ' Ya n d a r a l o v e t o d o waxing' and she turned and said to me, Yandara since you love to do waxing, you should do the course and start your own little business because persons are always asking for a waxer.”
After giving much thought to the idea and discussing with her family, Singh mentioned that the following day, she contacted back her friend and asked that she sign her up for the course.
“Since here in Lethem, it is not so familiarized with these kinds of beauty care services, I decided to embark on the journey where I attended classes day and night in neighbouring Brazil,” she recalled.
R e m e m b e r i n g t h o s e d a y s , Singh admitted that at times, it was very hard, up to the point where she wanted to give up the training, but with the help from God and his
encouragement from her parents, sisters and boyfriend, Singh said she was able to pull through those difficult times.
Grateful for the experience, Singh says that now she sees that her hard work is paying off. She highlighted the tremendous support
opening her spa.
“As I attend to my customers, I gain more courage in my work because when I see those happy smiles on their faces and I feel
expressed.
Asked what it means to provide such a service to that remote part of the country, the young entrepreneur said it is an “honour” because she allowed herself to provide a service that is much needed in her region.
Relatively new to the industry, Singh said that as time progresses, she would like to expand her services because “there are always something new to learn”.
through her spa business, Singh would like to encourage young aspiring entrepreneurs that “it's never too late to start on your dream, never give up, and never lose hope and faith in yourself.”
Our featured entrepreneur is of the view that to help grow and expand small businesses in our society, “We need to invest more in them by advertising more so it can reach more customers.”
If you are ever in the Lethem area and are thinking where to
Woman quits U.S. job to fulfil childhood dream of owning restaurant in Guyana
By Shervin Belgrave
AGuyanese nurse
h a s q u i t h e r well-paying job
in the United States of America (USA) and returned
h o m e l a s t D e c e m b e r t o fulfill her childhood dream
o f o w n i n g h e r o w n restaurant.
S h e r o n W e l c o m e
Barrington told K a i e t e u r
N e w s t h a t r e a l i z i n g h e r dream said it would have never been possible without hard work and lots of prayer and fasting. She thanks God and her family and friends
f o r h e l p i n g h e r o p e n 'Paradise Plates', a cozy little
restaurant at 84 Duncan S t r e e t , C a m p b e l l v i l l e , Georgetown.
At a simple opening c e r e m o n y o n Va l e n t i n e ' s Day, where popular one-man band “Stitchie” performed,
Barrington told K a i e t e u r News about her journey
“A lot of sacrifices, a lot of dedication, a lot of hard work and there was a lot of obstacles along the way,” she said while explaining that
owning her own restaurant and a salon has always been her childhood dream apart
f r o m h e r c a r e e r i n t h e m e d i c a l f i e l d “ I l o v e cooking,” she said as she recounted becoming a nurse at the age of 17 in Guyana. She later migrated to the USA where she has worked for decades. For the last 24 years, Barrington said she w o r k e d w i t h t h e b e s t h o s p i t a l s i n t h e U n i t e d States. Notwithstanding the positive rewards abroad, the woman said she kept her eyes on the prize of owning her own restaurant in her home country
Tw o y e a r s a g o , s h e returned to G
prospects. However, the bold step of g i v i n g u p h e r j o b a n d returning to Guyana was a big challenged. She returned to her U.S. home and was caught between a rock and a hard place. Struggling to make a decision on her own, Barrington, said she turned to her God for help through
prayers and fasting.
“I fasted and I prayed about it and I just got up and left,” Barrington said.
She added, “God said well, it is time to go, so I quit my job of 24 plus years of working in the operation room and on December 6 (last year), I walked into the hospital, I cleaned my locker room and handed in my
Despite the challenges, things fell into place for Barrington and today she
cooking and a friend she fondly calls her “sister in
customers) are gonna feel like they are in paradise, everything on that plate
News. Her main goal is to cook for her customers the same way she cooks for her family, “with love”.
Paradise Plates offers a variety of dishes, including A
to
as well as
catering services and the location can be rented for weddings, birthdays or other special events. Barrington noted that if customers are
call or message to 501-6064.
traditional Guyanese dishes. The location is also suitable for a date in paradise with its well-stocked bar offering a
Glam Spa, Yandara Sophia Singh
of
beauty
services one can experience when visiting Yandara's Glam Spa.
dish prepared by Paradise Plates
Worldwide Week spotlight…
Flight instructor, Cara Ming says “To those who love aviation, the sky is home”
Guya na’s Cara Ming
earns Distinguished Flight Instructor Award
Guyanese Cara Ming has been recognized by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association a US-based Foundation as a Distinguished Flight Instructor for 2025
Guyanese Cara Ming has been recognized by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), a US-
flight school every single day
is truly remarkable.
“ We
b a s e d F o u n d a t i o n a s a Distinguished Flight Instructor for 2025. This prestigious award is a t
u n w a
m e n t t o M s M i n g ’ s
i n g d e d i c a t i o n , exceptional teaching skills, and the genuine passion she brings to our
According to a blog post by Sun City Aviation Academy, since joining the Academy just over a y e a r a g o , M i n g h a s q u i c k l y become an invaluable member of the team
The Academy lauded her ability to connect with students, break down complex concepts, and instill confidence in aspiring pilots
s guidance has not only helped them master the technical aspects of flying but also ignited a lifelong love for aviation,” the Academy said.
The Academy noted too that Ming’s commitment to excellence extends beyond the cockpit She’s
Britney Benjamin BREAKING GL A SS CEILING…
is the only UAV pilot authorized by the GCA A to conduct offshore
drone inspections
a constant source of support and encouragement, always willing to go the extra mile to help her students achieve their dreams Her enthusiasm is contagious, and her positive attitude creates a learning e
thrive
“This award is a well-deserved recognition of Cara’s exceptional c o n t r i b u t i o n s t o t h e a v i a t i o n
We
y fortunate to have her as part of the S u n C
A c a d e m y family,” the post added. As Cara herself often says, “To most people, the sky is the limit. To those who love aviation, the sky is home.” We can’t wait to see what amazing heights Cara and her students will reach in the years to come!”
Britney Benjamin is the only UAV pilot authorized by the GCAA to conduct offshore drone inspections
operating in Guyana.
which enabled her to transition into a Field Technician role in August 2024.
Britney then became the only
contributed to the refurbishment of
embraced challenges, and has since thrived in the industry
Founded in Molde, Norway, in 1998, Axess operates in over 25 countries. Following the expansion of its operations to Guyana in 2021, the company formed a joint venture with Guyana Logistics and Support Services (GLASS) in 2024 to
establish Axess
Integrity Management company in the country
Through innovative solutions, Axess has successfully helped
for clients in Guyana. Axess values
Guyanese companies benefitted from bulk of 2024 local content earnings - Jagdeo
L o c a l c o m p a n i e s h a v e benefitted from the majority of the 2024 local content
e a r n i n g s , Vi c e P r e s i d e n t Bharrat Jagdeo has assured.
Speaking at his party's weekly press conference on
T h u r s d a y , J a g d e o t o l d reporters that his government is committed to ensuring that local businesses in the oil and gas sector continue to benefit from the majority of earnings. He said that every effort is
b e i n g m a d e t o p r o t e c t Guyanese in accordance with the Local Content Act.
J a g d e o w a s a s k e d b y Kaieteur News whether the
US$743M spent on local content last year was verified
b y t h e g o v e r n m e n t a n d whether the bulk of it is in the pockets of locals rather than foreigners who use locals as fronts for their businesses.
“ r i g h t n o w, t h e r e ' s $700M odd that you speak of.
It's a substantial sum of money, nearly $150 billion of p r o c u r e m e n t o p p o r t u n i t i e s
g o i n g t o G u y a n e s e
c o m p a n i e s , ” t h e V i c e President said.He explained that while by definition and documentation presented, all o f t h e c o m p a n i e s a r e Guyanese, some may be local i n t h e o r y b u t f o r e i g n i n practice.Jagdeo reminded that t h e r e i s a n o n g o i n g investigation to identify such companies. He said that the government has identified
l o o p h o l e s b e i n g u s e d b y foreigners to circumvent the local content legislation.
“…but the bulk of the money would be mainly to our local companies, the bulk of it, and we're very pleased that it happened because it is great opportunities,” he assured.
On November 12, 2024, Kaieteur News reported that
Jagdeo issued a stern warning to Guyanese firms enabling foreign companies to bypass Guyana's Local Content Act, stating that violators will face penalties.
The Local Content Act currently features 40 areas for s
including rentals, supply of goods, accounting, catering a n d w e l d i n g F o r e i
companies wanting to operate within those areas are required to partner with local firms. However, the law stipulates that the Guyanese partner m
5
%
beneficial ownership, among
observed foreign companies finding new ways to flout this law in order to gain access to the 40 areas of services set
conference, Jagdeo made it clear that the government is committed to enforcing the law to ensure that benefits set aside for Guyanese go to locals, not foreign firms. “Let me just reiterate that all of those who are violating now the Local Content Act, they have a lot to worry about,” Jagdeo said.
“We intend to crack down on it. This Act was designed to give benefits to our people, Guyanese, and if there are a few people here who are using it to confer the benefits so that the foreign companies can get these benefits that are set aside for our people, and they are c o l l a b o r a t i n g w i t h t h e foreigners, then they run the risks of not just losing the certification but also facing the fines in accordance with the Act,” the Vice President added.
IMF praises government...
From page 14
shall be deposited into the Consolidated Fund and shall be used only to finance national development priorities and/or essential projects that are directly related to ameliorating the effects of a major natural disaster
To this end, Holder reiterated calls from the Opposition for government to state projects and programmes being funded through oil revenue.
On February 21, 2025, Kaieteur News reported that Terrence Campbell, a Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Investment Committee member filed a judicial review application challenging the Government of Guyana's management and transparency of the Natural Resource Fund.
The application names the Attorney General of Guyana and the Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance as respondents.
Fishermen bawling at sea as they reel in empty...
From page 12 primary cause of the gradual
d e cl i n e i n a r t i s an a l fi n fi s h production over the past two decades.
Nevertheless, Irfaan-Ali
l e d G o v e r n m e n t h a s p r o m i s e d , w h i l e r e f u t i n g claims that oil exploration is a
dwindling supply One way is through an
e strategy from 2021 to 2026 and the government boasted that it will be an economic p
approach the government has reportedly taken is clamping down on illegal fishing.
saying, that it launched “a n a t i o n a l a c t i o n p l a n t o
combat illegal, unreported,
,
n t r o l , s u r v e i l l a n c e , a n d enforcement”.
D e s p i t e G o v e r n m e n t ' s efforts fishermen continue to c o m p l a i n a b o u t t h e i r s u ff e
hardships they face. Some are taking risks by venturing into
international waters in order to feed their families.
O n F e b r u a r y 1 2 , t w o
Guyanese fishing boats were seized along with their catch b y t h e S u r i n a m e C o a s t
G u a r d T h e b o a t s a n d
Guyanese crew onboard were r e p o r t e d l y fi s h i n g i n
S u r i n a m e w a t e r s w i t h o u t
permits and licenses."On the v e s s e l s , a u t h o r i t i e s f o u n d eight fishermen of Guyanese
origin who were unable to i d e n t i f y t h e m s e l v e s o r p r o v i d e o ffi c i a l p e r m i t s , "
Wa t e r k a n t , a S u r i n a m e s e
media entity reported.
M e a n w h i l e , t h e s e i z e d catch consisted of several fish
s p e c i e s , i n c l u d i n g " B a n g
Bang and Kantratiki", which are popular in the Suriname's fishing industry
T h e S u r i n a m e C o a s t G u a r d r e p o r t e d l y emphasised that strict action is being taken against illegal fi s h i n g , w h i c h n o t o n l y causes economic damage to the fishing sector but also t h r e a t
p e c t severe sanctions,” the Coast Guard reportedly said in a press release.
Commissioner of Information...
From page 11
i n f o
m a t i o n o n t h e l o c a t i o n o f t h e Commission of Information. When even the President's Office cannot direct citizens to a statutorily created office, one must question how seriously the Act and the broader issue of transparency are taken.”
Equally disturbing is the Commission's
allocated annually in the national budget for t h e O ffi c
financial accounting for these funds has ever been provided ” Auditor General, Deodat Sharma was unable to confirm whether the
Office of the Commissioner of Information falls under his remit or another accounting mechanism.
In the meantime, Ram also pointed out that the Access to Information Act requires the responsible Minister to table an annual report on the operation of the Act, however parliamentary records do not disclose even
Parliament since the Act's inception. This newspaper could not locate any Annual Reports on Parliament's website. At least three Members of Parliament (MPs) also had no recollection of such reports being laid. Meanwhile, the Clerk of the National
Saturday that he had no access to the records o
Kaieteur News via a cellphone call yesterday (Saturday). He agreed to set up a meeting on Monday to provide any clarifications this publication required.
Implications
With the hindrance to transparency cited by Ram, the Lawyer said the implications for oil and gas governance are profound.
n
l compliance, confidence in the management of the national patrimony and accountability is severely eroded - especially in the absence of an independent Petroleum Commission,”
he said.
Commissioner of Information has become an embarrassment to both the Government and
guarantee transparency has been perverted into a mechanism of secrecy
This farce must end. Parliament must immediately demand an accounting of the C
“surgical measures” be taken should the Commissioner's Office continue obstructing access to information, since “government cannot claim to champion transparency while allowing this mockery to continue.”
WANTED VACANCY
Wanted Driver Diamond/ Grove E.B.D with Larry license. Contact: 677-6620
One Welder, must have mechanical knowledge, free accommodation provided & 1 hauler/ low bed Driver. Call: 627-5043/ 639-1315.
Nanny wanted to do some housekeeping must be 3045 years old 8:am-4 : 30 pm at Nandy Park E.B.D. Contact : 626-4884
Need a grocery shopper, ship chandler or visa application preparer: USA, Canada, UK ETA. 626-7040.
Elevate your brand with our professional Graphic design services. Call: 619-0007, 6295526.
For low cost repairs for AC units, refrigerators, freezers, gas stoves, washing machine, dryers, etc. Call: 6294946, 225-4822.
Electrical Repairs- transformer, powertools, vaccum, water pump, air cooler, etc @ Friendship, EBD. WhatsApp: 659-5664, Call: 627-7835.
FOR SALE
For Sale 6 used American made Dental chairs excellent condition. Contact Mr Vino on 661-3030 or 626-8918.
Small Farmers mini Tractor, complete plows - coutock plows. Cantact : 624-0646.
Aracari Hotel renovated rooms ,A/C, TV, Restaurant, bar, pool, gym Stay 7 nights, 1 Free! Call: 264-2946.
LAND FOR SALE
Roadside Heroes Highway Land for Sale, Garden of Eden 3.8 or 6 acres. Contact : 621-1139 / 712-4020
US$12.7M Hotel and Theme Park coming...
From page 50 with lounge chairs. Phase three will see the construction and subsequent operation of a theme park. The proposed theme park would be featured with exciting rides, snack and confectionery bars and a movie theatre. The theme park would be some 15,000 square foot surrounding a fountain pond to enhance its aesthetic. Finally, phase four will see the construction and operation of a recreational park, garden and petting zoo and the conclusion of all landscaping works.
While the business plans to have electricity supplied by the Guyana Power and Light (GPL), it said a backup electrical supply will be installed.
The EPA issued a Notice to the Public, dated February 19, 2025 indicating that it has determined the project will not significantly affect the environment, and is therefore exempt from the requirement to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
FOR RENT
2 bedroom apartment for rent at 4633 Rasville, Roxanne Burnhan Garden. Contact : 667-4691.
ENTERTAINMENT
Family fun Aracari Resort! crystal clear pool, safe kids & adult sections, music & food. W.B.D. Call : 264-2946-9
TO LET
Camp Street, Top Floor (25'x40') Middle floor( 25x40') for offices or other types of business . Call : 609-7675 / 6741705.
Commercial space, Enmore Mall Top and ground spaces, also 4 Acres Land to lease, Emore Public road. Call : 6097675 / 674-1705.
PEN PAL
Looking for pen friends, chatting, relationships, marriage. Ages 17-25 years. Serious persons only. Call/ WhatsApp Elijah Persaud: 686-5377.
An artist’s impression of the Hotel under construction
$13M estimated to construct northern shed at Queen’s College
Ministry of Education is now planning to build a northern shed at the school which is estimated to cost $13,554,765.
Below are the companies and their bids:
Ministry of Public Works Supply & Delivery of Materials for Sea & River Defence Works Lots 1-2.
This is according to the information provided by the National Procurement and Te n d e r A d m i n
t r a t i o n Board (NPTAB) office. Bids
for the project were opened recently and according to N P TA B , 11 c o n t r a c t o r s applied for the contract. Notably, the Education M
Construction of Northern Shed- Queen’s College. Printing and Delivery of Exercise Books.
contractors to complete Lots 5 and 6 of the Hosororo Secondary School project in Region One. According to the ministry’s engineer, Lot5 is estimated at $1,048,358,300 while Lot 6 is estimated to cost $281,462,632. In 2023, the ministry assigned contracts totalling $2,619,208,261 to construct
the first secondary school there That project was awarded in six lots at the time, with Lot 5 covering the superstructure Works and electrical, pegged at $1,411,400,917, and Lot 6 being plumbing works for $247,043,973. I t w a s r e p
d
t contractor VG Group Guyana was contracted by the ministry to execute both lots at the time
Ministry of EducationConstruction of Hosororo Secondary School Lot 5-6 (Region One).
Israeli attacks on Gaza kill three as Hamas, Egypt hold ceasefire talks
Israeli drone strikes in Rafah kill three Palestinians amid escalating violence and fragile ceasefire
Aljazeera - Israeli attacks on Gaza have killed three Palestinians
a n d w o u n d e d s e v e r a l i n t h e southern governorate of Rafah as Hamas and Egyptian officials meet in Cairo for talks on the future of a precarious ceasefire.
O n S a t u r d a y m o r n i n g , a n Israeli drone targeted a group of people east of Rafah city, killing two Palestinians. Our colleagues on the ground reported that one person was also killed by Israeli fire in at-Tannour, also east of Rafah.
Since Friday night, Rafah has been the target of intense Israeli attacks from tanks and drones with s h e l l i n g i m p a c t i n g r e s i d e n t i a l areas, including al-Jnaina, ashShawka and Tal as-Sultan, the
Palestinian news agency Wafa reported.
According to Gaza’s Ministry
o f H e a l t h , a
4 8 , 4 5 3
Palestinians have been killed and 111,860 wounded by Israeli attacks since October 7, 2023.
At the same time, the head of the enclave’s Government Media Office reported on Saturday in marking International Women’s Day that 12,316 women have been killed throughout the war
“Women’s Day coincides with the continuation of the Israeli siege and the prevention of aid as women live in catastrophic humanitarian
Maarouf said.
At least 2,000 women and girls
have been permanently disabled due to amputations, according to government data.
Amid the ongoing attacks, a Hamas delegation arrived in the Egyptian capital, Cairo, on Friday to discuss the Gaza ceasefire.
a
According to the AFP news
o r H a m a s members are part of a high-level delegation that is expected to talk to Egyptian officials on Saturday a
ceasefire.
Reporting from Gaza City, Al Jazeera’s Hind Khoudary said Palestinians are waiting for any news about the deal.
“We know that the first phase of the ceasefire ended on March 1, and Israel and Hamas agreed on a
talks
truce for a week. Today, that truce comes to an end, ” Khoudary reported. “Palestinians are very anxious and stressed that the second phase of the ceasefire hasn’t taken effect yet. People here are waiting for any news from these negotiations and feel that this ceasefire is fragile.”
As Palestinians wait for news
blockade of humanitarian aid is p
people already struggling to get by
“This blockade is suffocating Palestinians. They are saying they never imagined that a ceasefire and Ramadan would come and that they would not be able to cook their
y explained, adding that community
in Cairo.
kitchens are now running out of stock.
At the end of February, Israeli P
M
Netanyahu said humanitarian aid would no longer enter Gaza in retaliation for Hamas not accepting Israel’s proposal for phase one of the ceasefire to be extended.
Meanwhile, more than 50 freed Israeli captives urged Netanyahu
ceasefire and secure the release of those still held in Gaza.
“We who have experienced the inferno know that a return to war is life-threatening for those still left behind,” the 56 former captives said in a letter posted on Instagram. “Implement the agreement in full in one single manoeuvre.”
Newborn cash grant, a deposit into Guyana's future - President Ali
T h e G o v e r n m e n t o f Guyana's initiative to give G u y a n e s e m o t h e r s a
$100,000 cash grant for every child born in 2025 is an investment in their future to realise their full potential, President Irfaan Ali said on Saturday
The Head-of-State spoke at the launch of the newborn cash grant initiative at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), where more
t h a n 5 0 0 m o t h e r s w e r e presented with their cheques.
“We stand here to launch an initiative that speaks to the very soul of who we are—a society that refuses to let potential go untapped, dreams go unfulfilled, or children go unsupported. Every child born in Guyana is not just a citizen; they are a vital thread in the fabric of our nation's story,” he said.
T h e P r e s i d e n t emphasised that Guyana's children are not just the c o u n t r y ' s f u t u r e b u t i t s heartbeat.
“ E v e r y n e w b o r n represents a promise, a blank page waiting to be written. But a child's potential cannot f l o u r i s h w i t h o u t nourishment. This cash grant i s m o r e t h a n f i n a n c i a l support. It is a seed planted in the soil of our nation's future,” President Ali said.
T h e P r e s i d e n t underscored that the grant must not be seen as a cost on the country's treasury but as a “deposit into our children's future” and their ability to contribute meaningfully to our society
“We are planting seeds for a future where every child has the tools to grow,
succeed, and lead. This is not a b u r d e n o n t o d a y ' s t a x p a y e r s I t i s a commitment to tomorrow's leaders and nation builders,” he added.
To ensure that mothers receive the grant in a timely manner, President Ali said his government is putting systems in place that would s e e t h e m r e c e i v e t h e i r cheques before they leave the hospital.
“ We h a v e s e t u p a mechanism so that within one week of birth, every single mother will receive that cheque, and they will receive that cheque before they leave the hospital.”
The President said that the grant is not a privilege but a “right” for every baby born, “regardless of their p a r e n t s ' i n c o m e , b a c k g r o u n d , o r c i r c u m s t a n c e s ; e q u a l i t y begins at birth, and this initiative ensures that every child, without exception, receives the support we're offering.”
P r e s i d e n t A l i a l s o presented some statistics regarding the number of newborn babies for the year, noting that, so far, 2,052 b a b i e s h a v e b e e n b o r n
b e t w e e n J a n u a r y a n d February of this year
“Bringing a new life into the world is one of the most profound joys a parent can experience. It is a moment filled with hope, love, and endless possibilities. Yet, as experience teaches us, the joy often comes with the w e i g h t o f n e w
r e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s a n d expenses, from diapers and formula to healthcare and childcare.”
T h e P r e s i d e n t a l s o announced that First Lady M r s A r y a A l i w i l l b e providing the mothers who a t t e n d e d t h e e v e n t w i t h newborn hampers.
“As your government, this is our way of saying your j o y m a t t e r s ; y o u r c h i l d matters. And we are here to w a l k t h i s j o u r n e y w i t h you—not only at the birth of y o u r n e w c h i l d , b u t throughout the life of this child,” he said.
Honouring women on International Women's Day
T o c o m m e m o r a t e International Women's Day, which was celebrated on Saturday, the Head-of-State also spoke extensively on w o m e n a n d t h e i r contributions to Guyana's d e v e l o p m e n t H e a l s o h i g h l i g h t e d h i s government's commitment to empowering them.
The President said that over the past four years, the Government has invested over $156bn in initiatives aimed at uplifting women, i n c l u d i n g e d u c a t i o n , healthcare, and economic opportunities He pointed out that 60% of hinterland scholarships awarded under t h e G O A L S c h o l a r s h i p Programme were to women, and out of 14,000 University of Guyana graduates in the last four years, nearly 10,000 are women; and more than 4,000 out of 4,600 newly g r a d u
,
e President said, underscore women's critical role in shaping Guyana's future.
“ T h e w o m e n i n o u r society are the bedrock of
our society The women in o u r s o c i e t y a r e t h e foundation on which this nation will stand and grow,”
President Ali said while emphasizing the need to h o n o u r , p r o t e c t , a n d celebrate women.
“We must protect them. We must support them. We m u s t s h o w t h e m
c o m p a s s i o n We m u s t embrace them We must encircle them with love. We must lift them up. We must celebrate them. We must honour them.”
Meanwhile, Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony a l s o c e l e b r a t e d t h e achievements and resilience of women. He emphasized that women have played a c r i t i c a l r o l e i n h o l d i n g families, societies, and the world together, and it is important to acknowledge their contributions.
H e s a i d , “ T o d a y (Saturday) is a day when we c a n c e l e b r a t e a l l t h e
a c h i e v e m e n t s a n d
a c c o m p l i s h m e n t s o f o u r women and you have been
the ones who have been able to hold us as a family as a s o c i e t y a n d a s a w o r l d together, so we want to celebrate your resilience and all that you have done for us throughout the years.”
Dr Anthony then shifted focus to the newborn cash grant, highlighting that it is not a random or accidental programme but a carefully considered effort by the government.
He explained that the g r a n t i s p a r t o f t h e Government's larger strategy to ensure the health and wellbeing of the nation's citizens, p a r t i c u l a r l y m o t h e r s a n d children.
To this end, Minister of Human Services and Social Security Vindhya Persaud highlighted the challenges that new mothers face in raising children, from the cost of food to diapers. She explained that the $100,000 g r a n t w a s d e s i g n e d t o address these challenges and provide support to families.
Minister Persaud said, “The cost of having a child,
the cost for food, the cost for pampers the cost for things that you need and that is what o
attention to.”
She further emphasized that the grant will be rolled out year-round, ensuring that whenever a baby is born, the f a
crucial support.
“This government with a lot of care and concern will be providing this $100,000 cash grant to get you started, to get you on your feet and to help and support in a tangible way,” she added.
M
Government's broader vision for children, viewing them as “priceless assets” for the nation.
She explained, “We are looking at children from the moment of birth through this cash grant, we are looking at children when they are going t o s c h o o l , t h r o u g h t h e , because we care cash grant, we are looking at children a n d a d u l t s , w h o h a v e disabilities.”
Mackenzie masterclass fails to
as Eagles’ bowlers tie up 214-run win
A m a s t e r f u l s e c o n d innings knock of 147 by Kirk McKenzie failed to keep the Jamaica Scorpions from a crushing 214-run defeat yesterday at the hands of the Guyana Harpy Eagles who wrapped up another comprehensive victory this season. Sabina Park was treated to some fine cricket by both teams, most notably after the Champs posted 339 thanks t o a t o n f r o m K e v l o n Anderson. Guyan
knocked over the Jamaicans for a measly 44 in their first innings.
Harpy Eagles would then stretch their lead to almost 5 0 0
continued from his initial
innings, scoring an even 50 batting again, while opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul led with a classy 74, as Guyana declared on 2nd innings 1933.
The Scorpions had a much better attempt at 489 runs batting a second time, thanks to opening batsman M
K
h i s majestic century off 249 deliveries with 15 fours and 5 sixes.
Sunday March 09, 2024
ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19)
Today you will have all the energy you need to deal with long-term family problems. Indeed, you'll probably clash with some of your relatives. But this situation won't cause any serious issues.
TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20)
You enjoy caring for others and you intervene regularly in their lives to guide them. Ironically, today you're the one who needs advice. You'll probably need to get away from it all in order to get a clear view of your own life.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20)
W e a l l h a v e t o m a k e compromises in order to live in contemporary society. You may have strong beliefs, but it's difficult to combine your ideals and a social life.
CANCER (June 21–July 22)
You've always felt the need to free yourself from society You need to feel independent at any cost. You may need to f a c e c e r t a i n r e l a t i o n s h i p problems at this time.
LEO (July 23–Aug. 22)
You may feel annoyed about the attitude of some of your group of friends. Unlike these people, you're very openminded and you can deal with s i t u a t i o n s a s t h e y a r i s e Indeed, you have a natural
ability to adapt to every situation.
VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22)
To d a y, Vi r g o , y o u ' l l b e submerged under a lot of emotions. In a way, you'll be revisiting your childhood
You may be very edgy This is a good disposition in which to analyze your life.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22)
Yo u r e a l l y k n o w h o w t o seduce, Libra. There is a spark inside of you that spreads naturally to those around you. You have a big reservoir of sensitivity and emotion that could grow today
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov 21)
You're a very active person, S c o r p i o , b u t t o d a y y o u ' l l probably be disappointed. If you ask those around you to help with your activities, they most likely won't understand your needs.
SAGIT (Nov 22–Dec. 21)
Nothing much is happening today, yet you seem worried and tense. You'll have to use this day to your advantage. Think about your life. You'll also think about the needs of your relatives in the years.
CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19)
You often need to thrive on personal emotions. Today will be no exception to the rule. For instance, you could try to c
people you admire.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) You shouldn't try to fight the feelings that run through you today Don't even try to r a t i o n a l i z e t h e m T h e s e feelings are probably related to emotions dating back to your c h i l d h o o d Yo u s h o u l d n ' t avoid or analyze them.
PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20)
You'll be lost in your thoughts today, analyzing your life and relationships. You'll be asking yourself if your existence is meeting your standards. You will ponder what to expect from the future and from the people around you.
W e s t I n d i e s O D I specialist Brandon King lent his experience as he cracked 8 fours in his 53, sharing a century partner
innings.
After their dismissal on the final day, the Scorpions pair of Javelle Glenn (14) and Brad Barnes (25) hung around but failed to get anywhere close to the target, thanks to 7 wickets shared between their ace spinners.
Left-arm veteran spinner
Ve e r a s a m m y P e r m a u l c l a i m e d ( 3 - 5 0 ) w h i l e Gudakesh Motie finished w i t h f i v e w i c k e t s a f t e r, adding 4 wickets to his lone first innings scalp.
F a s t - b o w l e r Alimohamed missed out on a 10-wicket haul, but bowled well for his 2nd innings 3-42 which lent ideal support to the spin twins.
F o l l o w i n g a n o t h e r outright win, Guyana will return home for their next match against the Windward Islands which bowls off at P r o v i d e n c e f r o m Wednesday, March 12 2025.
Summarized scores: Guyana Harpy Eagles 339 all out in 109.2 overs ( K e v l o n A n d e
Matthew Nandu 61, Kemol Savory 48, Odean Smith 568, Marquino Mindley 2-36, Tamarie Redwood 2-109) & 1 9
74, Kevlon Anderson 50*, Tevin Imlach 31) Jamaica Scorpions 44 all
Historic triple-double for Jokic in Denver win
BBC Sport - Nikola Jokic became the first player in NBA history to register a triple-double of at least 30 points, 20 rebounds and 20 assists in a game as the Denver Nuggets beat the Phoenix Suns 149-141 in overtime.
points in total - hitting a
three-pointer on the buzzer
t o s e n d t h e g a m e i n t o overtime.
H o w e v e r , D e n v e r f o rg e d a h e a d e a r l y i
record means they are third in the Western Conference.
D e n v e r ’ s n e x t opponents on Sunday are leaders the Oklahoma City T h u n d
Portland Trail Blazers 10789
Number of sponsors on board as preparations continue for Kennard Memorial Phagwah horse race meet
By Samuel Whyte
With a week to go before race day, preparations have almost been complete for the much-anticipated Kennard
M e m o r i a l T u r f C l u b (KMTC) Phagwah one day horse race meet.
The meet which is slated for next Sunday, March 16, at the club’s Bush Lot Farm Corentyne, Berbice venue has attracted a number of sponsors.
Among the sponsors on board are Metro Company Limited, The Trophy Stall, To r g i n o l P a i n t s G u y a n a Limited, Mike Pharmacy, Mrs. Chand Kennard and Family, Blue Seenarine and S u r e n d r a G a n e s h a m o n g others.
The KMTC is one of the premiere horseracing venues
i n t h e c o u n t r y a n d i s synonymous with staging
t o p o f t h e l i n e e v e n t s Sunday’s meet is expected to be one such occasion.
Over 50 entries have been received so far and a
number of other horses are expected to enter before the closing date. The six-race event has a whopping $6M and change available in cash, trophies and other prizes for outstanding performers and a riveting day of races is anticipated.
The Metro Company will take charge of the feature C1 and lower event where the winner will gallop away with the sumptuous $1.2M and t r o p h y T h a t e v e n t i s e x p e c t e d t o b e a mouthwatering affair with the inform Beckham James among the horses slated to go for the gold in the 7 furlongs gallop.
Another top-notch event i s t h e r a c e f o r h o r s e s classified F and lower The w i n n e r ’ s t a k e i s a n encouraging $400,000 and trophy over seven furlongs.
T h e s h o w d o w n f o r h o r s e s c l a s s i f i e d H a n d lower will see the winner
r a c i n g a w a y w i t h t h e $350,000 and a trophy also
over seven furlongs.
A g o o d c o n t e s t i s anticipated in the event for three-year-old Guyana Bred animals over 6 furlongs. The top prize is $300,000 and trophy The other two races also have the pole position takings at $300,000 and trophy over six furlongs.
A large field is expected to enter in the event for J and l o w
already been received for the L-class open race.
T h e K M T C i s i n
e x c e l l e n t s h a p e a n d a bumper crowd is expected to swarm the venue and be a part of the day of exciting horseracing.
R e w a r d s w i l l b e available for the outstanding i n
r s , including top jockey, top
compliments of the Trophy Stall.
Interested persons can contact Satish Bowan on 610- 0250, Isaac Dalloo at 689-0629, Fazal Habibullah at 657-7010, T Jagdeo at 618-7278, Campton Sancho
Brickdam Sec’ to battle Tutorial for spot in Petra-Milo U18 C/ship
T h e o v e r w
M i l o / M a s s y U n d e r - 1 8 Football Championship has
l e d t o a n e x c i t i n g n e w qualification system. Teams
n o w h a v e t h e g o l d e n opportunity to earn their spot in the tournament through h i g h - s t a k e s e l i m i n a t i o n playoffs.
Y e s t e r d a y , t h e
G e o rg e t o w n d i s t r i c t s a w
f o u r i n t e n s e e l i m i n a t i o n
m a t c h e s , w i t h B r i c k d a m Secondary, Saints Stanislaus College, Tutorial High, and St John’s College emerging victorious. These teams will battle again today in the final round, where only two will s e c u r e a p l a c e i n t h e prestigious 11th edition of t h e c o m p e t i t i o n T h e tournament officially kicks off next weekend at the M i n i s t r y o f E d u c a t i o n
C o m p l e x a n d Q u e e n ’ s
C o l l e g e G r o u n d i n Georgetown.
T h e c o m p e t i t i o n i s fierce, with only 24 teams set to make the final cut. In the
R
d o m i n a t e d P u r e M a s t e r Academy 6-2, powered by a
6 8 2 - 8 5 5 0 o r R o p n a u t h Sewsankar at 678-6722 for further details.The event will be conducted under the aegis of the KMTC. Race time is 12:00 hrs.
Part of the action between Saints and Bishops in the Milo U18 qualifiers.
s e n s a t i o n a l f i v e - g o a l performance from Samuel Gasper
S a i n t s S t a n i s l a u s C o l l e g e d e l i v e r e d a commanding 6-2 win over Bishops High, thanks to b r a c e s f r o m K e i s h a w n Ramsay and Satirius Taylor Meanwhile, Tutorial High defeated Tucville 3-1 with goals from Travis Grogan, Desean Sookam, and Azariel Pilgrim. St John’s College
i n i t i a l l y e d g e d N o r t h Ruimveldt (Multilateral) 8-7 on penalties, but Multilateral was later disqualified for breaching tournament rules.
T o d a
Ground will see Brickdam
Saints go head-to-head with St John’s for the final two
G
Qualification matches will
Wednesday, ensuring that only the best teams advance to the main event.
W
Academic Foundation eager to retain their title, the stage is set for another thrilling edition of the country’s most anticipated youth football tournament.
The Kennard Memorial Turf Club is in excellent shape and ready for action.
Guyanese Men and Women got off to flying
star t
Guyana’s junior men’s and women’s hockey teams made a bold statement as
t h e y o p e n e d t h e i r P a n
A m e r i c a n H o c k e y
F e d e r a t i o n ( P A H F ) Challenge campaigns with emphatic wins on Saturday in Barbados.
T h e w o m e n ’ s s i d e dominated Guatemala with a stunning 4-0 victory, while the men’s team battled their way to a gritty 2-0 win over
t h e i r G u a t e m a l a n counterparts.
The first women’s match
o f t h e t o u r n a m e n t , s a w
G u y a n a i m p o s e t h e i r authority early, using their e
i e n c e i n 11 -
- s i d e hockey to full effect. The tone was set in the 7th m
at
PAHF Challenge in Barbados
Fernandes slotted home a field goal to put her team ahead.
B e f o r e h a l f t i m e , Kazaquah Uzzi capitalized
o n a p e n a l t y c o r n e r opportunity, doubling the l e a d a n d t i g h t e n i n g Guyana’s grip on the match. The second half saw more of the same d
m
nance, as Fernandes struck again to complete her brace before Keitanna Percival sealed the 4-0 win.
The men’s team faced a w e l l - d r i l l e d G u a t e m a l a n squad in one of the day’s most hard-fought contests. Despite numerous attacking t h r e a t s i n t h e f i r s t t w o quarters, Guyana struggled to find the breakthrough. T h a t c h a n g
converted a crucial penalty corner to send his team into the break with a 1-0 lead.
Guyana maintained their intensity in the second half, and it paid off early in the third quarter Lovell once again stepped up from a penalty corner to net his second goal, giving his team
defence held firm to secure an important opening win.
With momentum on their side, the Guyanese women now face a tough test against a red-hot Mexico team that stormed past Trinidad & Tobago with an 8-0 drubbing in their opener
The men will enjoy a well-earned rest before their s
tomorrow at 2:00 pm, where
they aim to build on their solid start.
business end next Sunday,
Guyana’s hockey hopefuls will look to maintain their winning ways and make a l a s t i n g i m p a c t o n t h e regional stage.
Guyana’s Ladies stuns Guatemala 4-0 in PAHF opener. (PAHF photo)
GBF and FIBA to host historic 3x3 Referees Certification Clinic
In a ground-breaking m o v e f o r b a s k e t b a l l officiating in Guyana, the G u y a n a B a s k e t b a l l F e d e r a t i o n ( G B F ) , i n collaboration with FIBA, will host a 3x3 Referees Certification Clinic on April 5–6.
The certification clinic will take place during the h i g h l y a n t i c i p a t e d O n e
G u y a n a 3 x 3 Q u e s t t o u r n a m e n t , b r i n g i n g together elite 3x3 referees from across the Americas, the Caribbean, and Guyana in their bid to join the prestigious ranks of FIBAcertified 3x3 referees.
General Secretary of the GBF, Patrick Haynes, who also serves on the FIBA 3x3
Commission, emphasized the historical significance of the event, noting that it will be the first time a FIBA certification course is held in Guyana.
“This is a monumental achievement for Guyana,” Haynes stated. “We would like to extend our gratitude to FIBA and their Americas Zone office for investing in this clinic, as well as to the G o v e r n m e n t o f G u y a n a , through the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, for their support in making Guyana one of the hot spots for 3x3 basketball in the Americas this year.”
Haynes highlighted that t h e G B F i s m a k i n g a concerted effort to elevate Guyana’s standing in the i n t e r n a t i o n a l b a s k e t b a l l community, adding, “We are placing great emphasis on hosting the first-ever 3x3
Q u e s t i n t h e E n g l i s hspe
ing Caribbean The clinic aligns perfectly with our mandate to develop basketball in Guyana and
push our 3x3 program onto both the regional and global stage.”
The clinic is open to referees between the ages of 21 and 40, and Haynes strongly encouraged local 3x3 referees to seize this o p p o r t u n i t y, a s G u y a n a currently lacks any certified FIBA 3x3 referees.
“ H a v i n g c e r t i f i e d referees is crucial for the continued development of 3x3 basketball in Guyana,” Haynes added. “This clinic will provide our referees with top-tier training and practical experience under the guidance of one of F I B A ’ s l e a d i n g 3 x 3 instructors.”
The two-day clinic will c o m p r i s e t h e o r e t i c a l s e s s i o n s a n d p r a c t i c a l assessments, with the One G u y a n a 3 x 3 Q u e s t tournament serving as a live e v a l u a t i o n p l a t f o r m f o r aspiring referees.
M e a n w h i l e , preparations for the One Guyana 3x3 Quest are well underway, with teams from Mexico, Trinidad & Tobago, S t K i t t s a n d N e v i s , Suriname, the USA, St Maarten, and other nations across the Americas already registered.
The tournament winner will earn the opportunity to represent the Americas at the FIBA 3x3 World Tour in E d m o n t o n , C a n a d a , i n August.
Haynes noted, that with the hosting of the One Guyana 3x3 Quest, the first FIBA 3x3 Quest tournament i n t h e E n g l i s h - s p e a k i n g Caribbean, along with the referee certification clinic, it further solidifies Guyana’s growing reputation in the 3x3 basketball scene.
General Secretary of GBF, Patrick Haynes
Guyanese Men and Women got off to flying Women star t at PAHF Challenge in Barbados
Gudakesh Motie, Veerasammy PermaulLeft-arm spin twins Gudakesh Motie and Veerasammy Permaul made their mark in the match.
