Technician stabbed to death in heated clash during drinking spree
Better infrastructure, better livelihoods – Oxford Professor stresses key role in economic growth
Restorative justice, legal modernisation reshaping Guyana’s courts – AG Suriname offers help to Guyana on Amaila Falls Hydropower Project
Dead: Abdool Sharaf Rahim
Dead: Adrian Inshan
Dead: Ameer Subhan
Dead: Keishan Ramnauth
Watermelon harvesting at Santa Fe Farm, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) (Agriculture in Region Nine photo)
US$12.7M hotel & theme park to be built at Canal No 2 Polder
…to feature 200-ft wave pool, petting zoo
ocal investors are seek-
Ling environmental authorisation to build a five-storey hotel and theme park in Middlesex Village at Canal No Two Polder, West Bank Demerara (WBD), a multi-purpose facility that, once completed, will feature movie theatres, a tennis court and a 200-foot-long wave pool.
According to the project summary submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Skyline Contracting Services and developer Krishna Persaud are currently in phase one of developing this project which is being built on 37.8 acres
of land at a cost of US$12.7 million.
Phase one involves the construction of the five-storey, 59 room hotel which will include a presidential suite, eight deluxe suites, conference hall and rooftop deck. Phase one also includes a tennis court which will be behind the hotel and accessible for guests and patrons, as well as a strip mall with fast food franchises, gym and two movie theatres.
“Phase II which is expected to follow will see the construction of a Wave Pool and the installation of Water Park Slides. The Wave Pool which will be located aback
the hotel will be 200 feet by 30 feet.”
“This pool will be equipped with a compression jet system to create artificial waves similar to those in the ocean. This area which will have a bar and entertainment systems will be equipped with lounge chairs,” the project document states.
In Phase Three, there will be the construction and subsequent operation of a theme park featuring rides, snack and confectionary bars and a movie theatre. There will also be 15,000 square feet surrounding a fountain pond.
“Last but not least, the final phase (Phase IV), will see the construction and operation of a recreational park, garden and petting zoo and the conclusion of all landscaping works,” it was further explained.
Meanwhile, the document goes on to gives reasons for selecting the location. It was pointed out that the economic impact on the surrounding community will be significant. Additionally, it was projected that annual revenue will be around $19 million.
“Canal No. 2 Polder is largely a rural agricultural
community physically laid out for significant agricultural production. Each property has a portion that is closer to the roadway used for dwellings (called homesteads) and another portion (called farmlands) at the back of the homestead - extending all the way to the main irrigation/ drainage canal dams.”
“Owing largely to the prohibitive nature of the economic costs associated with unlocking the economic potential of the farmland portion of these properties, many of these lands are either partially utilised, rented out, or simply leg unutilised and overgrown with vegetation,” the developer explained.
Back in 2020, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government had invited expressions of interest for the construction of hotels, including globally recognised brands. Despite criticism at the time, the decision proved successful as it facilitated the growth of the sector and laid the foundation for the economic boom in the tourism industry.
The continued growth of the hospitality sector has been fueled by significant private sector investments, with more than $50 billion
injected into hotels, resorts, local airlines, and malls between 2020 and 2024. The private sector has responded with confidence, adding four new hotels and 561 new rooms to the national stock.
As a matter of fact, within the next four years, the Government is expecting an influx of new investments in the hospitality sector as the economy expands, whereby some 15 hotels will be constructed, bringing thousands of rooms on stream.
Only last month during Minister of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond’s 2025
Budget debates in the National Assembly, she had said that in 2024, Guyana’s hospitality sector was on track to generate a staggering $13.6 billion in revenue. Walrond had disclosed that the industry has also proven to be a major driver of employment, with nearly 22,000 people employed directly or indirectly in the sector across the country. She had noted that the revenue generated by the sector reflects a combination of factors, including increased hotel occupancy rates and growing international and domestic tourism.
Construction in progress at the new hotel
BRIDGE OPENINGS
The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Tuesday, February 25 –03:00h-04:30h and Wednesday, February 26 – 03:30h-05:00h.
The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:
Tuesday, February 25 –14:40h-16:10h and Wednesday, February 26 – 15:25h-16:55h.
FERRY SCHEDULE
Non-oil economic growth to average 8% for rest of the decade – Dr Singh
…over 10% non-oil
GParika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily.
Sunshine is expected throughout the day, with clear to partly-cloudy skies in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 22 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.
uyana’s non-oil economy, which comprises of the traditional sectors such as agriculture and mining, has not only grown at an average of over 10 per cent for the last three years, but it is also forecasted to grow by an average of eight per cent for the next five years.
During an appearance at the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo (GECSCE), Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh revealed what Guyana’s growth projections for the non-oil economy are up to 2030.
Low Tide: 08:36h and 21:06h
According to the Finance Minister, Guyana has been successful at growing its non-oil economy in spite of the presence of oil, averting the dreaded Dutch disease. This has resulted in Guyana’s non-oil economy recording strong growth between 2021 and 2024… growth which is expected to continue over the remainder of the decade.
“It would easily be understood why one would make the mistake to think that what is happening in Guyana is only about oil. But we have been at pains to strip out oil and only speak about what is happening in the non-oil economy. So, the red line here indicates, growth in the non-oil economy.”
“And between 2021 and 2024, our non-oil economy has grown at an average of 10.3 per cent. And we are projecting into the remainder of the decade, growth in the non-oil economy that
will be in the vicinity, on average, of eight per cent, going up to the end of the decade,” Dr Singh said.
According to Dr Singh, such consistent growth is unparalleled, whether you look at Latin America or the Caribbean. And this growth rate has been evident since the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government returned to office in 2020.
“Since 2020, we’ve been growing at rates that essentially have exceeded every single comparative group around the world. Whether you compare with the world at large, whether you compare with advanced economies, whether you compare with this hemisphere, whether you com-
pare with the Caribbean or Latin America and the Caribbean,” the Finance Minister added.
While the economic contribution of Guyana’s oil and gas sector looms large, it had been projected that the non-oil economic sector would grow by 13.8 per cent this year. Sectors such as Agriculture, Fishing and Forestry, with sub-sectors like sugar, rice and other crops, as well as mining and quarrying all expected to grow.
While presenting the 2025 Budget in the National Assembly last month, Dr Singh had given a further breakdown, sector by sector, of how the economy is expected to perform. For instance, in Agriculture,
Fishing and Forestry, these sectors are expected to grow by 11.4 per cent, as increased production is targeted for all subsectors. And true to its word last year, the Government has set a production target of around 101,000 tonnes for the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) in 2025.
Meanwhile, the other crops subsector has been projected to grow by 11.7 per cent this year. This will include an expansion of the acreage being cultivated. Further, the Government indicated that it will remain focused on helping the region to achieve the 25 by 2025 food security target… namely a reduction of food imports by 25 per cent by this year.
In the area of mining, the Finance Minister also projected that mining and quarrying would grow by 10 per cent this year. This is on the back of the “modest growth” expected from the oil and gas and support services sector. Nevertheless, he noted that the gold, bauxite, and other mining subsectors are expected to record strong growth.
“Additionally, growth in bauxite mining this year is expected to be supported by higher expected production from both operators in the industry, with output from the Linden mine expected to increase by 167.3 per cent. Total bauxite production for 2025 is projected at just over 4.4 million tonnes,” Dr Singh had also said.
The tragic murder of 27-year-old Kenesha Marie Juman Vaughn at the hands of her reputed husband, Marlon DaSilva, has once again thrust the issue of domestic violence into the national spotlight. The brutal nature of her death, marked by 12 gunshot wounds, underscores the alarming reality that many women in Guyana continue to face – an existence marred by fear, control, and violence.
Domestic violence is not a new issue in Guyana. Despite legislative advances such as the Family Violence Act and various support systems put in place by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, cases of intimate partner violence persist at an alarming rate. The tragic loss of Vaughn is yet another example of how deeply entrenched violence remains in the social fabric of our country. Minister Vindhya Persaud’s impassioned response to this heinous act highlights the urgent need for a shift in cultural attitudes towards gender-based violence.
Minister Persaud aptly pointed out that no situation justifies taking another person’s life. However, legislative measures and state intervention alone are not enough. The real battle lies in changing the societal mindset that normalises violence as an acceptable response to conflict. The prevalence of domestic abuse is often fuelled by deepseated beliefs about power, control, and entitlement within relationships. The Minister’s call for men to “let her go” if the relationship is unhealthy and for women to “leave and stay away” from abusers should not be seen as mere rhetoric, but as a plea for collective action.
Too often, domestic violence cases remain hidden behind closed doors, dismissed as private matters rather than the public health crisis that they truly are. Women, particularly those who have children, frequently remain in abusive relationships due to financial dependence, fear of retaliation, or the societal stigma associated with leaving a marriage. Many victims feel trapped, believing they have nowhere to turn. However, as the Minister pointed out, the State does provide shelters and legal protections for survivors. The Family Violence Act, for instance, offers critical legal recourse, yet many individuals remain unaware of its provisions or lack the confidence to seek help.
Family and community members play a crucial role in breaking this cycle. As Minister Persaud rightly noted, dismissing warning signs or refusing to intervene can have deadly consequences. Violence does not occur in a vacuum; it thrives in silence, in the reluctance to acknowledge red flags, and in the failure of institutions to act swiftly when abuse is reported. Everyone – neighbours, friends, relatives – has a responsibility to report suspected cases of domestic violence and offer support to survivors rather than victim-blaming or encouraging reconciliation at the expense of safety.
Law enforcement agencies, too, must ensure that reports of domestic abuse are treated with the urgency and seriousness they deserve.
Beyond law enforcement, the broader society must address the root causes of domestic violence. Schools should incorporate education on healthy relationships and conflict resolution to break the cycle from an early age. Media and community leaders must challenge harmful stereotypes that glorify possessiveness or aggression in relationships. Workplaces must adopt policies that support employees experiencing domestic abuse, providing them with the flexibility and resources needed to seek safety.
While Minister Persaud’s statement sheds light on critical aspects of the issue, tackling domestic violence requires a multi-faceted approach. It demands collaboration between the Government, civil society, religious institutions, and everyday citizens. The reality is that gender-based violence will not simply dissipate through laws alone – it requires a fundamental shift in how society views relationships, masculinity, and conflict resolution.
Kenesha Marie Juman Vaughn’s death should not be just another statistic. Her story must serve as a wake-up call for renewed efforts in preventing domestic violence. Every life lost to domestic abuse is one too many.
A flawed peace deal would not end the war in Ukraine
MaksyM
On Monday, we mark three years of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. For three years, the Ukrainian people have demonstrated remarkable resilience, foiling Russian plans to conquer Kyiv and forcing its army to retreat from Kharkiv and Kherson.
Ukrainians continue to resist against the onslaught of the Russian army, but the war has inevitably entered a grinding phase in which every territorial gain comes at an enormous cost, testing Ukraine’s endurance and the West’s willingness to maintain support.
At this critical stage, a new administration in the United States has signalled a dramatic shift in its policy on Ukraine, demanding that a swift peace agreement be reached. Last week, US and Russian officials met in Saudi Arabia for direct negotiations without Ukraine at the table. This meeting and the rhetoric coming from Washington have raised fears that President Donald Trump’s Administration is laying the groundwork for broader concessions in the name of de-escalation with Russia.
For Ukraine, the fundamental issue is not whether diplomacy should be pursued – any war eventually ends at the negotiating table – but what terms those negotiations will involve. If the priority is simply to stop the fighting as quickly as possible, there is a risk of Ukraine being pressured into accepting a settlement that does not address its long-term security concerns
and that temporarily freezes the war rather than putting an end to it.
Recent history provides a clear warning against such flawed “peacemaking”.
In February 2014, Russia invaded Ukraine’s Crimean Peninsula and occupied it; two months later, its troops along with local pro-Russia forces launched an operation in eastern Ukraine’s Donbas region, taking control of some territory. In August, Kyiv was forced into negotiations brokered by France and Germany that aimed to put a stop to the fighting under unfavourable terms.
What came to be known as the Minsk I agreement, signed in September of that year, lasted no more than six months. In January 2015, forces loyal to Moscow and regular Russian army units renewed their attacks on Ukraine to force it into more concessions. In February 2015, what came to be known as the Minsk II agreement was negotiated and signed, stipulating that Kyiv had to recognise the “special status” of two regions in the Donbas in effect occupied by Russia.
The Minsk agreements ultimately failed to secure a durable peace. Structured to freeze the conflict rather than resolve it, they allowed Russia to consolidate control over the occupied territories while keeping Ukraine politically and militarily constrained. Moscow never adhered to its commitments, using the diplomatic process to buy time, regroup and prepare for further aggression.
The failed Minsk agreements serve as a cautionary tale: Settlements that ignore Ukraine’s security realities and societal expectations do not lead to lasting
peace, but merely postpone the next conflict.
Any settlement must reflect the will of the people who have endured this war for three years. Polls conducted in Ukraine show clearly what the Ukrainians want.
War fatigue is real, as illustrated by a poll conducted by Gallup in November, in which 52 per cent of respondents said they supported negotiations. However, when it comes to any territorial concessions, only 27 per cent said Ukraine should consider such a step. A clear majority of Ukrainians reject giving up any land as part of a peace agreement.
These figures highlight an inescapable political reality: There is no broad support in Ukraine for a peace agreement that legitimises Russian territorial gains. Any Ukrainian leadership attempting to negotiate such terms would face enormous public pressure. And even if an agreement were reached at the diplomatic level, attempts to implement it would be met with fierce resistance domestically.
That is why US and other Western policymakers advocating for an expedited resolution cannot ignore the will of the Ukrainian people. If they do want a peace deal to hold, they should consider continuing support for the Ukrainian army. Ukraine’s ability to negotiate from a position of strength depends on continued military success and a unified stance from its allies.
In making decisions on their Ukraine policy, Western countries should not fall for Russia’s flawed narrative. Moscow has been trying to create the illusion
of strength while concealing its growing vulnerabilities.
Russian officials have insisted the Russian economy is stable despite sanctions, their military operations are sustainable and time is on their side. At the Riyadh talks, Russian representatives reportedly suggested that businesses in Moscow are thriving, restaurants are full and only Western economies are suffering from prolonged engagement in Ukraine.
The message was clear: Russia can fight for as long as it takes while the West faces diminishing returns. This framing has led some in the West to conclude that a quick peace deal – one based on Ukrainian concessions – may be the most pragmatic way forward.
But it is not. Appeasing Russia would only increase its appetite for more aggression.
The way to guarantee peace in Ukraine is by setting up a robust postwar security framework. Whether through NATO integration, bilateral defence agreements or a structured European-led security framework, Ukraine needs concrete security commitments. If these are absent in any peace settlement, the risk of renewed conflict would remain high.
The coming months will be critical as Washington reassesses its role in Ukraine. While much is unknown, one reality is clear: Ukraine’s fight is not only about reclaiming lost territory but also about ensuring that its sovereignty is no longer in question. Whether Western policy continues to align with that goal or shifts towards a more transactional approach will shape the next phase of the war.
(Al Jazeera)
Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) revellers adorned in vibrant costumes sway to the lively rhythms on Sunday as Guyana celebrated its 55th Republic Anniversary
By
skrypchenko president of the transatlantic dialogue center
Sorry is not good enough
Dear Editor,
The continued failure of the Minister and his Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport has once again been on display. His failure to extend invitations to the Leader of the Opposition and members of the Opposition for the country’s 55th Republic Flag Raising Ceremony is yet another grievous affront to the principles of democracy and inclusivity, diminishing efforts to forge national unity.
This oversight, whether deliberate or negligent, is grossly unacceptable, espe-
cially on an occasion of such national significance, where every effort should be made to foster cohesion and togetherness among the people of our beloved republic.
It is imperative that this transgression be called out for what it is: a blatant disregard and disrespect for the fundamental tenets of national representation and a setback in our collective journey toward unity and reconciliation
The Ministry's statement, while acknowledging the oversight, does little to allay the concerns of the Opposition
and the wider public. Their apology, however formal, cannot erase nor diminish the impact of their failure to ensure equitable participation in one of our nation's most symbolic ceremonies. Such an egregious lapse underscores a deeper issue within the Ministry and the Office of the Director of Culture, an apparent inability or unwillingness to ensure that state functions truly embody the values of inclusivity, respect and the desired aim of truly achieving "One Guyana."
It is particularly disturb-
ing that such an oversight occurred despite the evident efforts of His Excellency, President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, to promote and inculcate a sense of unity among all Guyanese while more remains to be done in the quest for national cohesion, this incident only serves to undermine his leadership and tarnish the image of a Government that seeks to build bridges among its people, but again I say, much more has to be done.
The embarrassment this has caused to the Office of the President is undeniable, and
Misinterpretation of the Natural Resource Fund Act (2021)
Dear Editor,
I wish to record my deep concerns about the misinterpretation of the spirit and intent of the Natural Resource Fund Act (2021) by some, and offer my full policy support to the declared interpretation made by the Government of Guyana on this matter during the years 2022, 2023, and 2024.
I saw some news report in the media a few days ago and it served as an immediate trigger for me to re-read the Natural Resource Fund Act (2021), to clarify in my mind what is the spirit and intent around withdrawals from the Natural Resource Fund. The actions of the Government of Guyana fulfills the mandate of that law.
Firstly, this Act serves to establish the management framework on how the sovereign wealth of Guyana is invested and utilised for the present and future benefits of the people and the sustainable development of the country. The key phrases in the preamble to the Act are “present benefits”, “future benefits”, and “sustainable development of the country”.
Present economic benefits are the positive financial outcomes that result from immediate actions, immediate policies, or immediate projects that serve to bring sustainable development to the people. For example, if funds are withdrawn from the Natural Resource Fund to partially fund the gas-to-shore project, then such an agenda must be supported. The evidence gathered, frames a picture whereby, such an initiative can catalyse the transition from consuming very toxic bunker “C” oil (which is extremely detrimental to the environment) to a cleaner option; gas.
If withdrawals from the Natural Resource Fund are expended to build a road such as “Hero’s Highway” and that road serves to reduce travel time for the public, then that project has contributed to the sustainable development of the people. I have personal experience using the "Hero’s Highway", which took me to Diamond Village in under 10 minutes, as compared to that same journey on the East Bank Public Road, which
takes much longer. That is a clear case of the "Hero’s Highway" also contributing to the economic and social progress in the country.
Editor, please allow me to amplify my specific interest in this subject since I am alarmed by the apparent advocacy by some persons in the society who appear to be attempting to stall the policy agenda of the Government of Guyana. Without money, not all of these promised national development priority projects and policy measures could have been implemented. That is why the National Resource Fund serves as an enabler towards a more ambitious sustainable national development agenda. There is no harm in using it to advance the economic well-being of the people.
By law, withdrawals from the National Resource Fund are permitted once they serve to finance national development priorities, embracing any initiative aimed at realising an inclusive green economy. Fair enough; but isn’t this what the Government of Guyana did in 2022, 2023, and 2024 with most of their capital projects?
According to the records, withdrawals from the National Resource Fund totalled (considering exchange rates) approximately G$126 billion in 2022, followed by G$209 billion in 2023 and a further G$209 billion in 2024. If one is to juxtapose that with the spending on capital projects in 2022, one will find that some G$258 billion was spent vs a withdrawal from the Fund of only G$126 billion. The arithmetic informs me that some 48 per cent of the capital projects implemented in 2022 could have been easily funded by the Natural Resource Fund. If one is to review the portfolio of Capital Projects for that year, there is compelling evidence of projects specifically designed as national development priority projects. There can be no question about this and to support my firm stance on this matter, I would just want to list a few of them here as follows:
1. The sum of $225 million was spent by the Office of the Prime Minister to support
Hinterland Electrification Projects using solar technology. This project when completed is set to deliver solar mini-grids and provide renewable energy systems in the Hinterlands.
2. The sum of $920 million was spent by the Ministry of Housing to support projects to develop Water Supply Systems using solar technology in the Hinterlands.
3. The sum of $867 million was spent by the Government of Guyana under its capital projects to progress the Amerindian Land Titling Projects. In that bundle of spending, there were funds earmarked for projects to further develop Information and Communication Technology Access and E-Services for Hinterland residents and other residents’ remote communities.
The conclusive evidence from above illustrates that lots of spending intended to bring sustainable development to the people did occur in the year under review.
The same can be said for 2023 and 2024.
In my humble opinion, the evidence is there to demonstrate that G$421 billion and G$646 billion were spent in 2023 and 2024 on national priority capital projects with the principle aim of fostering sustainable national development. Both of these figures surpassed the withdrawal from the Fund in 2023 and 2024 which establishes factually that at no time were funds withdrawn to finance regular or routine Government current expenditures such as wages and salaries.
What is also clearly established in facts, is that the Government of Guyana Capital Projects profiles for the years 2022, 2023, and 2024, as listed in Volume 3 of the respective national budgets, are all projects designed to not violate, do not violate and will not violate the 24 voluntary guidelines as declared in the Santiago Principles. There is nothing non-transparent or unaccountable about providing electricity to the hinterland folks using green technology. There is nothing unsound, concerning the governance framework,
if a Government chooses to move away from dirty Bunker “C” oil to cleaner gas. Any investment in ensuring every Guyanese citizen receives water in their yard can be considered an extremely prudent investment; after all, water is life.
I have had the privilege of having direct access to observe and discuss the history and operations of the Norwegian Sovereign Wealth Fund. The technicians whom I have met with in Europe, took great pains to impress upon me that while commercial production in Norway began in 1970, during the first 14 years, they spent most of their earnings on capital projects that were designed to enhance the sustainable development of their society.
It was only after that time had elapsed, were funds used for investment purposes. Isn’t this a win-win situation? Today, Norway has one of the most modern inventories of completed capital projects in the world that serves to sustainably aid their future national development. Can you imagine the scenario if they had refused to use their oil and gas revenue for national development capital projects?
I find any instance of trying to deny people access to completed capital projects that are designed to enhance the sustainable development of the society, most egregious. Such a situation would serve to threaten the professional output from the Government of Guyana and that will not reconcile with its policy ambitions and promises made to the people in 2020.
After all, in 2020, it was the majority of the people who made that decision to entrust the current team under His Excellency, Dr Irfaan Ali with the fiduciary responsibility to deliver sustainable development for them. As instructed by the people, this is what His Excellency did and continues to do today. The game plan is to continue to deliver betterment for the people, and if it means using some of the Natural Resource Funds to advance these capital projects for the people; so be it!
Sincerely,
Sasenarine Singh
it is entirely avoidable that had due diligence, care, consideration, and maturity been exercised by the responsible entities.
This is not a trivial administrative blunder; it is an affront to the democratic process and to the very fabric of our nationhood. The Republic Flag Raising Ceremony is a solemn occasion that commemorates our country's hardwon independence and sovereignty. It is a moment where political, ethnic, and social divisions should be set aside in favor of a unified vision of national pride and progress.
To exclude a significant and very important portion of our nation's leadership from such an event is to send a dangerous and divisive message that some voices and perspectives are less valuable than others. This is a gross misrepresentation of the ideals upon which our Republic stands. One People One Nation One Destiny.
The Ministry's assurance that "stringent measures will be implemented to prevent such oversights" is a little consolation taken with a grain of salt, given previous lapses. But the damage has already been done.
Empty assurances do not rectify the deep-seated concerns about the integrity of state functions and the inclusivity of our national celebrations. What is required is not just procedural amendments but a demonstrable commitment to ensuring that all stakeholders, regardless of political affiliation, are afforded the respect and recognition they deserve.
Going forward, we the people demand concrete action to
rectify this matter and prevent similar occurrences in the future. A comprehensive review of the invitation process, greater transparency in event planning, and accountability for those responsible for this failure must be pursued, hence greater leadership.
Furthermore, an unequivocal commitment from the Ministry to engage all political actors in the planning and execution of national events is essential. The opposition will not accept a mere apology without tangible steps toward positive reform.
In the spirit of true national unity, let this incident serve as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue and responsible action. We want a unity Guyana where there is equally opportunities and prosperity for all and it is achievable without foreign intervention. Guyanese with responsibilities, inclusive and patriotic leadership can do it for ourselves.
The Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sport, as well as the Office of the Director of Culture, must recognise their important role not as gatekeepers of political exclusion but as stewards of our shared national heritage. Our Republic belongs to all Guyanese, and it is time to accept this undeniable and irrefutable fact.
It is imperative that all of our country’s national functions reflect this truth unequivocally. Anything less is a disservice to our democracy and an insult to the very fabric of our Republic.
Sincerely,
Jermaine Figueira, MP
Page Foundation
(1) Which set is equal to donkeys that can fly?
(A) { }
(B) {bat}
(C) {eagle}
(D) {flying fish}
(2) A subset of \{A, B, C\} is
(A) \{A, C, D\}
(B) \{B, C, A\}
(C) \{B, A, E\}
(D) \{C, A, G\}
(3) Which one of the following represents a ratio relationship?
(A) 8/5
(B) 8:5
(C) 85%
00050
(D) 8.5
(A) 709
(B) 097
(C) 97
(D) 09
By Judith Viorst
(10) The diagram below shows the shape of a school's compound Study the diagram and answer the questions that follow.
(a) Calculate the area of:
(b) In his mid-term tests, Sammy scored 90 marks in Social Studies, 61 in Science, 83 in Mathematics and 75 in English.
(ii) How many more marks should Sammy have scored in order to obtain an average of 81 marks in the 4 subjects?
I’m learning to say thank you. And I’m learning to say please. And I’m learning to use Kleenex, Not my sweater, when I sneeze. And I’m learning not to dribble. And I’m learning not to slurp. And I’m learning (though it sometimes really hurts me) Not to burp. And I’m learning to chew softer When I eat corn on the cob. And I’m learning that it’s much Much easier to be a slob.
3 killed in 2-motorcycle Corentyne crash
…elderly man dies after being hit by lorry on Corentyne road
Four persons are now dead following two separate accidents in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne).
One of the accidents claimed the lives of three young men on motorcycles.
Those dead are 18-yearold motorcyclist Keishan
lost their lives in an accident on Monday morning, just after midnight. The crash occurred along the Corriverton Public Road, in the vicinity of the Classic Hotel, and involved two motorcycles.
Ramnauht – with Inshan as his pillion rider – was
the air and landed on the road.
They were all picked up by public spirited citizens in an unconscious state and
Ramnauth, a labourer of Number 60 Village, Corentyne; 22-year-old
Adrian Inshan of Number 55 Village, who was the pillion rider; Ameer Subhan 21, a supervisor attached to Queensway Security Service and of Linepath Corentyne Berbice and 64-year-old Dennis Gilkes, of no fixed place of abode.
The three young men
riding motorcycle, CN 6641, which was proceeding south along Corriverton Public Road at an alleged fast rate of speed when he lost control and collided with motorcycle, CP 3158, which was being ridden by Subhan going in the opposite direction.
As a result of the collision the two riders and pillion rider were flung into
taken to the Skeldon Public Hospital where the two riders were pronounced dead on arrival.
The pillion rider was later transferred to New Amsterdam Hospital for further medical attention. However, he too succumbed to his injuries.
Subhan’s sister, Faenes Subhan, told this publication that her brother was
conducting routine checks on guards at various locations. He had just inspected the guards at Skeldon Hospital and was en route to another site when the accident occurred.
“Most passersby say that he was going and the other motorcycle was coming fast and they knock he (Subhan) and he pitch on the fence and then pitch back to the other end of the road,” his sister said.
Commenting on the other rider, who would have also died in the crash Subhan said she is also in sympathy with his parents.
“His parents have lost too…They are feeling what we are feeling right now,” she added.
Reliving tragedy
Meanwhile, family members of Ramnauth were too distraught to provide much information to this publication on Monday afternoon. His mother Bhojwattie Budram was in tears with relatives trying to console her.
The widow lost her hus-
band in a motorcycle crash in June 2023, which claimed the lives of two persons.
Family members said they were reliving the 2023, ordeal.
An aunt of the now-dead young man said he and the pillion rider were only acquaintances and could not say where they were heading.
However, Ishan’s mother, Asha Ramnarine said that her son and friend had gone to Number 63 as customary on Sundays and holidays and he allowed his friend to ride his bike.
The woman said she left home to purchase vegetables to sell at the market on Monday and when she returned, he had left already.
The mother of five said after receiving news of the accident, she rushed to the scene where she saw a part of her son’s skull on the road and subsequently went to the New Amsterdam Hospital.
“His skull pitch out and leave on the road, his hand break, and his toes cut off,” she revealed.
The teenager’s father Farook Inshan said when he went to the New Amsterdam Hospital, he was told that his son was on life-support.
“They say he can’t make it and they take the machine off of him.”
Truck accident
Meanwhile, Gilkes were crushed to death by a truck along the Williamsburg Public Road. The truck was being driven by a 24-yearold man. The truck driver alleged that there were two motorcars proceeding ahead of him when the immediate car proceeded to overtake the front car and that is when he observed a pedestrian in the centre of his drive lane about ten feet away. However, he applied brakes but despite his effort, the front portion of the truck hit the elderly man. He was picked up by the said driver and taken to the Port Mourant Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
Police are continuing their investigations.
(Andrew Carmichael)
Parents of Adrian Inshan, the pillion rider, Asha Ramnarine and Farook Inshan
The motorcycles that were involved in the accident
Dead: Adrian Inshan
Dead: Keishan Ramnauth Dead: Ameer Subhan
Suriname offers help to Guyana on Amalia Falls Hydropower Project
…as Staatsolie Managing Director floats areas for potential collaboration
Lauding the merits of the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project (AFHP), Managing Director of Suriname state oil company Staatsolie, Annand Jagesar, recently proposed that this could be one of the projects that Suriname provides assistance to Guyana with.
During the recently held Guyana Energy Expo and Supply Chain Expo (GECSCE), Jagesar spoke of areas in which Guyana and Suriname can collaborate. These areas range from the Gas to Energy (GtE) Project to Local Content.
Additionally, an important area in which assistance was offered is in AFHP Project. The Amaila Falls Project, which Jagesar claimed they were very jealous of, is one in which he had high praise for. He noted that Suriname itself has
experience with hydropower projects… experience that it can lend Guyana.
“We have a hydro project, which is 1500 square kilometres (km). You have a hydro project that is 30 square kilometres and can generate the same amount of energy. So that’s a good project. I think nobody would oppose such a project. It’s difficult to innovate a lot of land these days. So very nice project. If you’d like, we’d like to join there. We have some experience,” Jagesar explained.
Jagesar went on to explain that there are studies which support proposals for hydropower using current from the ocean or marine energy. He described this as an exciting proposal and noted that the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) could potentially provide funding.
“One exciting thing about hydro, another big project to impress you guys, eventually maybe we can look at (current). Because, you know, in the sea we have better pockets for (cur-
gas facility. It includes hydropower. And it includes solar,” the Vice President said.
Jagdeo assured that this year, about 100 Megawatts (MW) of solar will be added to the grid. He noted that already, 35-MW have been added through a programme funded by the IDB. However, Jagdeo also noted the hurdles that come with seeking to integrate renewable energy in a way that will have it replace existing baseload energy sources.
“Renewable energy, particularly wind and solar, they’re not baseload. They’re just energy. So what happens is if the sun doesn’t shine for a particular period, you don’t (have power) unless you have batteries. You’re at the mercy of the elements. Same thing with wind. It could slow down and then you have to have fossil fuel kick in.”
“I don’t think integration is a major hurdle now.
rent). We looked at the studies and it looks good.”
“So, we’ve convinced IDB to maybe build transmission lines. If you maybe make a programme where hydrocarbons will be replenished by renewables, it might work. So, plenty of stuff to talk about,” he also said.
During the energy conference, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo had also spoken of the importance of hydropower, to the future energy matrix. The Vice President was at the time addressing youths during a segment of the GECSCE at the Marriott Hotel Friday last.
“Right now, we’re working at getting the Gas to Energy Project going. When that project is completed, we will cut electricity prices by 50 per cent. It is a transitional fuel, because right now we’re generating all of our power from diesel. And bunker C.”
“So even with that facility, we’ll cut our emissions by 45 per cent. And if you read the LCDS (Low Carbon Development Strategy), you will see we have an energy mix for the future. It includes gas, so we’ll build the
But simply, there’s this mistaken view you can use it to supplant baseload. and until batteries become cheap enough to allow solar energy to come in as baseload constant, and becomes ₵5 or ₵6 per kilowatt hour (kWh), then you can’t displace energy produced from the gas,” Jagdeo had explained.
Suriname’s Afobaka Dam is an example of a hydro power facility in the neighbouring country. The hydropower from the dam supports a 180-MW power station. In Guyana, the Government has repeatedly stated the AFHP, which is the hallmark of hydropower in Guyana, will be constructed despite the many delays.
Previously, four companies, Rialma S.A. (Grupo Rialma) from Brazil, China International Water & Elec. Corp, Lindsayca CH4 Guyana Inc, and a group made up of OEC, GE Vernova and Worle, had tendered their proposals for the 165-MegaWatt project. Last month, the Vice President had said that the project would eventually be retendered.
Rising…
…to the big leagues
Ain’t it nice to have money?? Never were truer words said than, “I’ve been rich and I’ve been poor. And, believe me, rich is better!” And in case you think your Eyewitness is a Philistine who ain’t acquainted with the words of the Good Book, he did also hear about it’s easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God!! But he’ll answer that caution with the retort of St Augustine as he struggled against “the temptations of the flesh” before he was beatified – “Give me chastity, lord – but just not yet!!” And we know he did make it heaven, didn’t he??!!
So as your Eyewitness sees all these high and mighty folks – who never used to give us the time of the day –now lining up to kiss Prezzie’s ring, he allows that he’s been smirking sometimes!! Remember Kamla snarkily informing Jagdeo and other leaders at one of the Caricom HOGs meets. Mudlanders gotta begin thinking seriously how we’ll be dealing with all those now knocking at our door –from far and wide.
And that’s the first thing, innit? They gotta be KNOCKING and then we should decide on what basis we’ll let them in!! And your Eyewitness isn’t too sympathetic to the retort that when Burnham’s dictatorship drove us beyond desperation, we fled to practically every country on planet earth!! But let’s remember they ALL had rules of entry –and we entered those countries either ILLEGALLY or legally then overstayed…and overstayed!! No one welcomed us and we were treated like scum of the earth by most of them!!
Remember Barbados’ “Guyanese Bench”?? Didn’t matter whether you were rich or poor, illiterate or lettered – if you were Guyanese you were herded to the bench!! Even prodded – no pretence about being civilised “Little England”!! In every other country we had to do “grunge wuk” to survive – and keep our mouths shut at our harassment that included rape. So what are our rules of entry to our Mudland?? Well, they’re already public –even with Caricom!! Our biggest concern should be those Venezuelans who WALK into Reg 1 – or land in Reg II and III. We can’t shut our eyes to the possibility that Mad Maduro might be playing a long game to change the population mix of Essequibo!! Thank goodness the PPP’s neutralised our Indigenous Peoples’ grievances that erupted into a 1969 Venezuelan rebellion in the Rupununi. So we gotta beef up our troops at our Essequibo border and for other countries, enforce our immigration rules with our own ICE!!
…tensions among “friends”
As your Eyewitness witnesses Trump’s disdainful dismissal of Europe’s discomfiture at his unilateral moves to end the Ukraine-Russia War, he’s getting quite heady now the shoe’s on the other foot!! How sweet it is!! For hundreds of years, we natives in the “colonies”, then the “third world” and now “shithole countries” had to endure America’s and Europe’s unilateral actions. Want some slaves? Take some from Africa!! Want some indentured “coolies”?? Take some from India and China!! Want some bauxite, or iron ore or whatever’s under your soil?? Sure… come on down!!
Well, Trump’s now using the same language to his erstwhile comrades-in-arms across the Atlantic!! Russia’s a threat to Europe’s security?? Well, duh!! Get together and form an alliance and fund it to take on Russia. “But hold it!!” says Trump, “Isn’t there already an alliance called NATO that Europe’s been extending to encircle Russia –but depending on the US to fund it??” But what about our “special relationship” cried Britain’s Starmer as he flies out with France’s Macron to plead with Trump.
Like the colonies after independence, Europe’s now on its own!! Grin and bear it!! …testiness
Trump’s pushing his transactional agenda –articulated by us locals as “Do fuh do nah obeah!!” – isn’t confined to Europe. He’s broadsided his neighbours Canada and Mexico telling them: “Cockroaches have no place in fowl business.”
Suriname’s Afobaka Dam
Staatsolie Managing Director Annand Jagesar
Stolen fishing boat recovered; 4 outboard engines found buried at No 75 Beach
Police found a fishing boat that was reported stolen at about midnight on Sunday along with several outboard engines from the Abary River mouth in Region Five (MahaicaBerbice).
Reports are that about 10:00h on Monday, acting on intelligence received, police ranks conducted a search at No. 75 Beach, Corriverton, Berbice, where they discov-
ered the stolen boat marked 'Avinash.' Further searches in the area led to the recovery of four Yamaha 40hp outboard engines, which were found buried near the vessel.
The discovery comes following a daring heist that occurred around midnight, when three men stole a 40foot cruiser boat along with multiple outboard engines belonging to several fisher-
men. According to police reports, the stolen items belonged to several individuals from various Mahaicony and West Coast Berbice communities. Kumar Bisnauth, 54, of Airy Hall, Mahaicony, lost a 40-foot cruiser boat painted blue, white, and black, along with a seine, gasoline, and a 40hp Yamaha engine. Harry Narine Persaud, 50, of Catherine, Mahaicony;
Anthony Gubdios, 39, also of Catherine, Mahaicony; Pooran Ramdat, 49, of Good Faith, Mahaicony; Jagdesh Ramdat, 50, also of Good Faith, Mahaicony; Tahkurdyal Narine, 59,
of Novar, Mahaicony; and Gopaul Narine, 28, also of Novar, Mahaicony, each lost a 40hp Yamaha engine. Dorothy Boodoo, 42, of Dundee, Mahaicony, lost a 60hp Yamaha en-
gine, while Ryan Soloman, 50, of Paradise, West Coast Berbice, lost a 15hp Yamaha engine.
Investigations revealed that the Abary Sluice/River Mouth is a widely used docking area for fishermen, where boats are secured with ropes. The thieves, armed with an angle grinder, cut the engines free and loaded them onto Bisnauth’s boat, which was then used as their getaway vessel.
A 51-year-old fisherman who was at the scene when the suspects arrived reported that the men inquired about other persons in the area before tying him up and threatening to shoot him. The suspects allegedly forced the man to assist in carrying the stolen engines before restraining him again and escaping eastward towards Suriname.
The man later managed to free himself and raised an alarm, prompting a police response. He was subsequently taken into custody to assist with investigation.
Technician stabbed to death in heated clash during drinking spree
ALittle Diamond, East Bank Demerara (EBD) man was stabbed to death following a drinking spree on Sunday.
Dead is Shiv Persaud, a 23-year-old auto body technician.
Reports are that Persaud, died at about 22:30h on Sunday at Skull City, Little Diamond.
According to Police, Persaud was at a shop in Skull City, consuming alcoholic beverages during the day when a misunderstanding ensued with the suspect, who was also consuming alcohol, which subsequently escalated into a fight.
Reports are that at around 22:30h, Persaud, in the company of a friend, was in the Skull City area when they were confronted by the suspect for a second time and he was armed with a knife.
Police said that the suspect then stabbed Persaud multiple times on various parts of his body and his friend who tried to in-
tervene and was also stabbed. The friend picked up Persaud and drove him to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where he died while receiving medical treatment. The friend who was stabbed was also treated but requested to be discharged and proceeded to a private hospital.
Police said that
Persaud’s body had stab wounds on the left side of the shoulder, left side of the chest, and other parts. His body was taken to the Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, awaiting a post-mortem examination.
Meanwhile, Police said that the murder suspect was captured at about 11:00h on Monday.
The fishing boat and some of the engines that were stolen and recovered by Police
Dead: Shiv Persaud
High demand for new skills within next 5 years – SLB’s Regional HR Director
…as Guyanese to move up in leadership roles in O&G
Regional Human Resources Director for Schlumberger (SLB) Nicholas Tuma anticipates that within the next five years, there would be a high demand for new skills in the local workforce in areas of carbon management, regulatory compliance and sustainability roles.
He made this remark last week during a panel discussion on “building a future ready workforce” at the Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo.
Tuma, who hails from Uganda, said he has already observed a growth of Guyanese nationals into several leadership roles in the oil and gas sector and he expects that within a few years, this progression will rapidly continue.
“For example, I anticipate that in five years, my position would be occupied by a Guyanese national,” he expressed.
“Additionally, several of our business leaders, we anticipate that in five years, they would be Guyanese nationals or other Caribbean nationals that would be taking those roles,” Tuma added.
Speaking on the new skills he anticipates becoming in high demand soon, Tuma explained that in order for Guyana to meet this need, its leaders have to be
very intentional.
“We have to develop an inclusive workforce that has more women working in the energy sector, more people from underrepresented communities with the right skills,” the HR professional posited.
Director of the Local Content Secretariat in Guyana Dr Martin Pertab agrees, noting that local authorities are not just looking at workforce development in oil and gas, but across all sectors of the economy.
He emphasised that the government – through various initiatives – has been assiduously working to upskill the population, especially in technical and
professional fields that translate beyond oil and gas.
“For this year, 2025, based on our latest estimate, we expect to see an additional 900 new jobs in the industry and the bulk of those jobs are basically among the technical and professional,” Dr Pertab noted, adding that many of the skills needed for the growing oil and gas industry can be repurposed for other sectors.
As the job market becomes more competitive, the LCS Director underscored the importance of continuous investment not only in training citizens, but connecting them with jobs that fit their skillsets.
Cummings Lodge man dies in WCD accident
An accident at Wallers Delight public road, West Coast Demerara has claimed the life of a 40-year-old a resident of Section B Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara on Monday.
Dead is Abdool Sharaf Rahim.
Reports are that on Monday at about 00:10h Rahim was engaged in an argument with his wife, before the accident.
The 32-year-old woman informed investigators that Rahim was attempting to retrieve his car keys from her, but she refused due to his intoxicated state.
Following the dispute, Rahim walked across the road from south to north and stood in the path of motorcar PVV 2663, which was driven by a 43-year-old woman from Uitvlugt.
The area was reportedly dark, and the driver told
Police, that she was unable to avoid the collision due to the close proximity. She said that the right front side of her vehicle struck Rahim, propelling him into the air. He landed on the windscreen before rolling off the bonnet onto the roadway.
Police said that emergency services arrived at the scene, and Rahim was transported to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
An investigation has been launched.
In this regard, he noted that the LCS has rolled out a paid internship programme to introduce students in their last year of studies to real-life on-thejob experiences with Tier One companies.
The goal, he said, is to
not only ensure Guyanese are afforded opportunities to work in the lucrative sector, but for them to move up in positions of leadership.
“Now, we have Guyanese who have been the system for more than five years and we expect that certain positions that are nontechnical, we expect to see Guyanese taking up these positions very soon,” Dr Pertab said.
Moreover, the LCS Director referred to conversations he’s had with the Ministry of Home Affairs for a more coordinated approach to the issuance of work permits for the oil and gas sector.
“The whole idea is we truly want to ensure that any opportunities that are nontechnical, Guyanese must be given a fair opportunity to take up those positions,” he noted.
Meanwhile, during the panel discussion, the matter of the generational gap
between the workforce was discussed. Tuma noted that this gap should not pose an issue since each generation brings with them, their own strengths, which companies must learn to leverage.
He said the older generation has more tribal work knowledge while the younger generation better understands the digital world, and when these strengths are combined, it creates a recipe for success for organisations.
Furthermore, he said companies can also benefit from reverse mentorship initiatives where the older employees are mentored by their younger colleagues about the new things such as artificial intelligence and automation.
Tuma also emphasised that it is very important for organisations to foster an environment of continuous learning.
Dead: Abdool Sharaf Rahim
Director of the Local Content Secretariat, Dr Martin Pertab and Regional Human Resources Director for Schlumberger (SLB), Nicholas Tuma during the panel discussion
Mashramani 2025: Across the country, vibrant costumes, communities outside of Georgetown together to From the coast to the hinterland, Guyana's 55th Republic
costumes, lively parades, and infectious music brought to celebrate Guyana’s rich culture and heritage. Republic Anniversary was celebrated on Sunday
15 new investors to supercharge expansion of Guyana's corn & soya project
Some 15 new investors are set to ramp up the country’s rapidly growing corn and soya industry.
The announcement was made by Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha during the recent ‘Guyana Dialogue’ programme, highlighting the project’s ability to attract the interest of more foreign investors and the country’s march toward self-sufficiency in key agricultural commodities.
“We have a number of almost 15 new investors that are going into corn and soya. The Tacama, the premier one is the Tacama Gold. They are cultivating approximately 5,000 hectares. They will be cultivating 5,000 hectares of corn and soya. We have a number of other investors who will be cultivating between 1,000 to 2,000. Some of them will be cultivating 3,000 acres and hectares also of corn and soya,” the Minister said.
Since the first trial cultivation of corn and soya in 2021, the industry has experienced remarkable growth. With Guyana currently importing close to US$30 million worth of feed products annually, the Government is determined to reverse this trend by becoming a net exporter of corn and soya by 2025.
The country’s strategic focus is not just on self-sufficiency but also on tapping into export markets, further
strengthening its agricultural economy.
As more investors pour into the sector, Minister Mustapha noted that the future of Guyana’s corn and soya industry looks exceedingly promising.
On this point, he explained that greater access to livestock feed will allow the local industry to boost production.
“I am very optimistic that this year, by the end of this year, or by the end of this cropping period, for corn and soya, we should be self-sufficient there. We are seeing in the livestock industry, we are seeing a new and emerging set of persons coming into the livestock industry. What we have done there, we have started a new programme where we have brought in the technology that Brazil has in terms of embryo transplant. We are doing that now in
Guyana. We have increased the number of farmers in the livestock industry, as a matter-of-fact last year the livestock industry grew tremendously,” the Minister disclosed.
The Government has been consistent in urging businesses to form consortiums.
Last year, Guyana was able to cultivate 12,000 acres of corn and soya.
The Government is hoping that this acreage can increase to 25,000 acres, with two harvests annually, during 2025.
The corn and soya bean project in the Tacama Savannah, located in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice), is spearheaded by a consortium of major agricultural firms. These include Guyana Stockfeed Limited, Edun Farms, and Bounty Farm Limited. Other notable investors joining the ven-
ture include Royal Chicken, SBM Wood, Dubulay Ranch, and the Brazilian-owned N F Agriculture.
Recognising the project’s national importance, the Government has committed over $1.2 billion towards infrastructural development in the Tacama area. This investment aims to create a conducive environment for large-scale cultivation by improving transportation, irrigation, and overall agricultural support systems. In 2023, the Government improved access to the area by constructing 40 kilometres (km) of road, with the remaining seven km scheduled to be completed in 2023. Additionally, the Government invested in a drying and storage facility for corn and soya bean which will be completed by the first quarter of this year, establishing the first such facility in the country.
Some 800 acres of soya bean and 600 acres of corn at Tacama, Berbice River
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha alongside Senior Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh and an official during visit to Tacama
Restorative justice, legal modernisation reshaping Guyana’s courts – AG
Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, has underscored the importance of restorative justice as a crucial addition to Guyana’s criminal justice system, emphasising its role in fostering efficiency, reducing case backlogs, and strengthening community involvement.
Speaking at a recent judicial event, he described this initiative as part of a broader legal transformation aimed at making justice more accessible and effective for all citizens.
Highlighting the significance of this approach, Nandlall explained, “Tomorrow (Saturday), I’ll be meeting with leaders of the community here again in Mabaruma, Region One (Barima-Waini) and leaders from as far as the Moruca sub-district, to engage them in a training session on restorative justice, another new important dimension which we have added formally to our criminal justice system, with the intent of
bringing speed and efficiency to the system, and also with the intention of involving the community in the justice system.”
Restorative justice represents a shift away from traditional punitive methods toward rehabilitation, reconciliation, and conflict resolution.
The AG pointed out that this system is designed to ensure that victims, offenders, and community mem-
bers have a more direct and meaningful role in resolving disputes, particularly for lesser offences, where alternative measures can be more effective than lengthy court trials.
By emphasising mediation and structured dialogue, restorative justice seeks to reduce the burden on the judicial system while delivering fair and timely resolutions.
Beyond the introduc-
tion of restorative justice, Nandlall highlighted the Government’s ongoing efforts to decentralise legal services, ensuring that those in rural and hinterland regions no longer have to undertake costly and time-consuming travel to Georgetown or other urban centres.
“All the services that are available in Georgetown and in the other regions of our country are also available to you in this region,” he affirmed, stressing that access to justice should not be determined by geography.
He pointed to the recent establishment of a Deeds and Commercial Registry Authority branch in Mabaruma, bringing essential services such as business registrations, land transactions, and other legal matters directly to the people of Region One.
“Late last year, we launched a Deeds and Commercial Registry Authority here, a branch where the residents of
Region One, in particular, this sub-district, can access all the services that that agency offers in Georgetown, right here in their community. And we have opened another branch in the Port Kaituma sub-district as well.”
Nandlall also spoke about the increasing use of technology in the judicial system, noting that virtual hearings are now a reality in courts across the country.
Further strengthening the legal system, the AG pointed to recent legislative advancements aimed at increasing efficiency. He highlighted plea bargaining and paper committals as two major initiatives, designed to speed up legal proceedings and reduce the heavy caseload that has long burdened the courts.
Nandlall emphasised that these advancements are not happening in isolation but are part of a wider regional effort to reform justice systems across the Caribbean. He noted that CARICOM Governments
recently met in Barbados, where crime and criminal justice system reforms were high on the agenda.
He stressed that Guyana must continue to adapt and modernise its legal framework, to keep pace with these developments, explaining, “As I speak, our Governments of the CARICOM region are meeting in Barbados, and high on the agenda is the issue of crime and the criminal justice system in the region, and we have to ensure that we keep pace with the developments taking place.”
He said Government remains focused on investing in legal infrastructure, improving the efficiency of the judiciary, and expanding access to justice for all citizens.
“From every conceivable perspective, our Government has been working diligently in partnership with the judiciary to deliver to the people of Guyana a quality justice system and a justice system that our people deserve,” he said.
Vendors benefit from key supply chain, procurement insights
SBM Offshore Guyana’s General Manager (GM), Martin Cheong has said that the entity remains committed to collaborating closely with local suppliers.
He was at the time speaking at its 'Let’s Talk Local Content’ Forum at the just concluded Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo (GECSCE).
This year, the company was appointed as the corporate Local Content Partner for the event. The seminar saw the participation of local vendors and organisations. It provided a platform for meaningful discussions about the company’s pro-
curement process, key vendor requirements, compliance guidelines, and local content initiatives.
The forum facilitated one-on-one interactions between suppliers and company representatives from key departments, including supply chain, compliance, local content, and Health, Safety, Security, and Environment (HSSE). It is one of several routine activities conducted annually by SBM Offshore Guyana in support of local content development.
“This is accomplished through a number of initiatives and activities such as this forum, where local suppliers are updated on
our procurement process and given an opportunity to have their questions answered,” Cheong said.
Meanwhile, during his remarks, Director of the Local Content Secretariat, Dr Martin Pertab, underscored the need for local content development and partnerships. The secretariat also took the opportunity at the “Let’s Talk Local Content Forum” to launch the Local Content App, a digital tool designed to improve access to opportunities in Guyana’s oil and gas sector.
He also described the app as a solution to persistent challenges in the sector. “In the past, compa-
nies relied on our website and social media to find opportunities. However, algorithms can limit visibility, and businesses have to constantly monitor these platforms,” he said.
Additionally, as part of the engagement an informational exchange with the GM, and Sustainability Lead, Gwenetta Fordyce underscored the importance of sustainable development and the company’s unwavering commitment to building out a business that is impactful in areas beyond the oil and gas sector in Guyana.
In their exchange with the participants the duo highlighted the work being done with the National Coordinating Coalition (NCC), Vurlon Mills Football Academy (VMFA), and the Green Farms Initiative which supports Plympton Farm. These initiatives support the drive to build local capacity both from a human capital and supply chain perspective.
Moreover, the event featured two break-out sessions. One focused on providing key insights into the company’s procurement process. This session targeted new and potential suppliers and provided both commercial and technical insights into the procurement process.
The second session focused on procurement needs
for Brownfield projects and Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) projects. It also provided insights into spare parts requirements, including specifications and maintenance needs. The session targeted both existing suppliers and those looking to expand their offerings to meet the sector's growing demands.
During the breakout sessions with suppliers and attendees interested in better understanding the company, the discussions were fruitful with several queries and concerns addressed. The discussions entailed provid-
ing essential insights into the company’s procurement framework, guiding businesses—particularly those that have not previously worked with SBM Offshore Guyana—on how to effectively engage with the company. Additionally, a Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel immersive experience session was held, utilising innovative technology that provided participants with an in-depth view of the FPSO. A model of the Liza Unity FPSO was also on display throughout the final day of the conference.
Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall
SBM’s Local Content Forum
SBM Offshore Guyana’s Local Content Lead, Garri Fraser, engages vendors during the session
SBM Offshore Guyana representative explains how the FPSO works to attendees
Better infrastructure, better livelihoods – Oxford professor stresses key role in economic growth
With the Government currently undertaking several massive infrastructural development projects, Professor of Economics and Public Policy at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford, Paul Collier has said that government’s push to leverage its oil wealth for critical infrastructure is a “sensible approach,” noting that oil does not last forever.
The world-renowned economist was at the time speaking during a recent episode of the Energy Perspectives podcast. He noted that Guyanese authorities are making the
right decision by investing in durable assets on the ground.
“Is that a sensible approach? It is, because infrastructure, first of all the oil won't last forever and so it's important that when you take the oil out from under the ground, you put some durable assets on top of the ground and that's what infrastructure is,” Professor Collier posited.
Alliance For Change (AFC) leader Nigel Hughes last month had criticized the government’s 2025 Budget describing it as prioritizing infrastructure over the basic needs of the population.
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh presented a $1.382 trillion budget for 2025, a 20.6% increase compared to Budget 2024.
Hughes claimed that the government’s focus on capital works, such as roads and bridges, fails to address the fundamental challenges faced by ordinary citizens he had said “We can’t eat the roads and the bridges.”
However, Professor Collier shared a different view on the situation. In fact, the world-renowned economist was heavily against the idea of direct cash transfers he said, “We cannot eat a bridge we cannot eat a road. Why not give us some of that money in direct cash transfers? No, I think that's a mistake.”
New economic opportunities
On this point Professor Collier highlighted that by developing the country’s infrastructure Guyanese citizens will be presented with a plethora of new economic opportunities.
“The answer is, you can eat thanks to the highway you can eat thanks to the road, because the highways and the roads will enable a lot more economic activity and so it will open up an ability to earn your
living. It's better to be able to earn a decent living and there's so many more business opportunities opened by decent roads and decent infrastructure, decent electricity and that sort of thing.”
Meanwhile, the Government of Guyana has allocated a substantial $209.1 billion in the 2025 budget for the construction and rehabilitation of roads and bridges across the country.
This funding will support several major infrastructure projects, in -
cluding the long-awaited Corentyne River bridge linking Guyana and Suriname. $5 billion has been earmarked to begin construction on the new bridge once discussions with Surinamese counterparts are concluded. Another $15.5 billion has been allocated for the Palmyra to Moleson Creek road project.
Additionally, $5 billion has been set aside for the commencement of the new Berbice River Bridge, a key infrastructure development for
the region. Other critical projects include $17.5 billion for the Railway Embankment Road expansion from Sherriff Street to Orange Nassau, and a continuation towards the Mahaica River Bridge. Furthermore, $3.9 billion is designated for the completion of the Good Success to Timehri road on the East Bank of Demerara. These significant investments in infrastructure are expected to boost connectivity and support the country’s ongoing development efforts.
File photo: Ongoing works at the US$190M Linden-Mabura Road project which will open new markets by improving connectivity between Guyana and Brazil
Professor of Economics and Public Policy at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford, Paul Collier
Heads of Govt meeting
PM Mottley calls for reform of Caricom governance mechanisms
Chair of the Caribbean Community (Caricom), Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados, said that there is need for reform of the governance mechanisms of Caricom.
Prime Minister Mottley raised the issue of governance of the Region in her address to the opening of the 48th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of Caricom on
Wednesday in Bridgetown, Barbados.
“We have a responsibility to reform this institution we have spoken for too long as to the need for independent funding mechanisms, whether it is assessed at the imports, whether it is an issue of a small fee for all border passings, people coming in and out of our borders, or whether it, whether it is the assignment of renewable en-
ergy licenses to Caricom and our regional institutions,” she said.
Prime Minister Mottley said that the time upon us to settle the independent funding of the institution. She also recognized that there may be need for a greater political voice alongside the administrative structures of Caricom.
“The time is upon us for settling the independent
funding of this Caribbean community. In addition, we need to review the governance mechanisms and to recognize that there may be a need for a greater political voice alongside the administrative structures of Caricom as we have come to know it over the last few decades.” Mottley highlighted.
Meanwhile, the 48th Regular Meeting of Caricom Heads of Government
opened last Wednesday night and saw presentations from outgoing Chair, Prime Minister of Grenada, Dickon Mitchell; current Chair, Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, and Caricom Secretary General Dr Carla Barnett.
Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN), António Guterres, and President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, were the guest speakers at the opening ceremony.
The regional meeting, which is being held under theme: ‘Strength in
Unity: Forging Caribbean Resilience, Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development’, concluded on Friday.
Topics discussed at the high-level engagement included food and nutrition security, climate change and the climate finance agenda; the ongoing challenges in Haiti; security issues; digital resilience; external relations matters and the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). Other issues such as maritime and air transport, West Indies Cricket among others.
GPHC leads way in advanced vascular surgery
Despite the significant risks posed by Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA), history is being made at The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) as it continues to advance in specialised surgical care, with AAA surgeries now becoming a routine procedure.
An AAA is a life-threatening condition where the aorta, the main blood vessel supplying blood to the body, enlarges and weakens in the abdomen. If left untreated, it can rupture, causing severe internal bleeding and often leading to fatal outcomes.
Looking back to 2020, patients diagnosed with AAA in Guyana had limited treatment options, often needing to seek medical care overseas, with only palliative measures available locally.
However, the Government took an approach by facilitating specialised vascular training for Dr Carlos Martin at McMaster University in Canada.
Upon his return, Dr Martin and his team performed the first successful elective and ruptured AAA repairs at GPHC, marking a
new era in vascular surgery in Guyana.
One of these successful surgeries, which highlights the smooth flow of surgeries being done, took place on January 13th, 2025. The Vascular Department at GPHC successfully performed another AAA repair on a 72-year-old patient who presented with abdominal pain.
Upon investigation, he was found to have a large
AAA.
This surgery contributed to the 12 cases that have been completed so far. Dr Carlos Martin, who spoke during a recent interview on a programme conducted by the GPHC, shared what this development means for Guyana, where he explained that patients who suffer from these catastrophes will have no need to travel abroad to receive medical support.
"At the beginning, there
was a lot of work we had to do to get things together… we now have the necessary human and material resources to offer this life-saving treatment…The significance is great because now we're offering hope to these patients. They don't have to go overseas. And importantly…we've already performed four ruptured aneurysm repairs at GPHC, and usually, a ruptured aneurysm has a mortality rate of 80 per cent." Dr Martin also emphasised the importance of teamwork in preparing patients for surgery.
“In terms of the vascular team, it’s myself, Dr Aiden Smith, who has been under my wing and can now perform everything I do, as well as a few general medical officers. At the beginning, I had assistance from another transplant surgeon as well."
He also shared exciting news for the future of vascular surgery at GPHC.
“Dr Aiden Smith will be receiving training this year in Canada through the Government of Guyana, following in my footsteps. However, his training will focus on endovascular tech-
niques, which will be a game-changer. Currently, we are performing open repairs where we make an incision, remove the aneurysm, and replace it with a synthetic graft. But with endovascular surgery, we would only need to make two small incisions in the groin and deploy a device, allowing patients to go home the next day. This is where we’re headed in the future."
“One of the ruptured aneurysm cases I remember was a patient from Mahdia. He collapsed and became unconscious. He was rushed to the health facilities in Mahdia,
where they did a great job resuscitating him. He was then transferred to us, and despite losing nearly all of his blood volume, he survived.”
He added that GPHC’s reach is extending to more remote areas, saving lives across the country, most notably in the hinterland regions.
He added, “We are now able to offer specialised treatment that was once out of reach for many Guyanese. This is a major milestone for our healthcare system, and we will continue working towards providing the best possible care for all our patients."
Heads of State at the opening ceremony of the 48th Regular Meeting of Caricom Heads of Government in Barbados along with Caricom and special invitees (Office of the President photo)
Chair of Caricom, Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados, addresses the opening ceremony of the 48th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of Caricom
Dr Carlos Martin
Kenyan Police Officer killed confronting gang members in Haiti
AKenyan Police Officer who was on patrol with the international security force in Haiti has been killed in a confrontation with gang members.
The officer, 26-year-old Police Constable Samuel Kitwai, is the first casualty suffered by the Kenyanled Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission.
The force was sent to Haiti in June last year to help restore order to the country, where gangs have seized control of almost the entire capital, Portau-Prince, as well as large swathes of rural areas.
More than 5500 persons were killed in gang-related violence in Haiti in 2024 and more than a million people have fled their homes.
The commander of the multinational force, General Godfrey Otunge, said Constable Kitwai had been injured in Artibonite, a region north of the capital.
General Otunge said the officer had been immediately airlifted to hospital, where he died a short while later. His family has been notified.
Jack Ombaka, the spokesman for the MSS, said in a statement sent to Reuters news agency that Constable Kitwai was a "fallen hero" who "was killed while fighting for the people of Haiti", while Kenya's Foreign Ministry said it was "heartbroken by the loss" of the officer.
Ombaka said the officer had been shot by a gang member during a security operation in the town of Pont-Sondé.
He added that the multinational force would "pursue these gangs to the last man standing".
A spokesman for Kenya's National Police Service added that the MSS was working "tirelessly" in collaboration with Haiti's Police Force to restore peace and stability in the Caribbean country.
The MSS was boosted earlier this month by the arrival of an additional 200 Kenyan Police Officers, but the force is outgunned and outmanned by the gangs, which continue to arm them-
selves with powerful weapons illegally smuggled from the US.
The future of the multinational force – which also has officers from Bahamas, Belize, El Salvador, Guatemala and Jamaica among its ranks – was thrown into doubt some weeks ago when the Trump administration ordered a freeze on foreign aid programmes.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio later approved a waiver for US funds destined for the MSS and Haiti's National Police, but it is not yet clear whether the US Government supports turning the MSS into a UN peacekeeping operation, which would make its funding more secure.
On Monday, the US Ambassador to Kenya, Marc Dillard, expressed condolences to the family of the killed officer, saying that "the United States is grateful for the courageous Kenyan Police who are serving in harm's way to keep our world safer". (BBC News)
US Immigration raids leave even Jamaicans with green cards in fear
Fear bordering on panic has spread to communities of Jamaicans across the United States, touching even some with green cards who are terrified they could be swept up in President Donald Trump’s sweeping deportation raids.
Jamaican leaders and immigration attorneys who spoke with the Jamaica Observer have been at pains to reassure obviously stressed-out migrants that they have nothing to fear if they are properly documented.
“I have been receiving many calls from people, some of whom are legal green card holders, expressing deep concerns about what is taking place,” said Rick Nugent, Board Chairman of the um-
brella National Association of Jamaican and Supportive Organisations (NAJASO).
“Some are literally scared to go about their normal business and there are reports of people not showing up for work. There is one particular situation where a tenant who is awaiting a response from immigration authorities regarding an application for permanent residency is afraid of remaining at her current address,” said Nugent, who is also President of the Jamaica Association of Maryland (JAM).
President Trump, as he signalled during the November 2024 election campaign, has ordered that undocumented migrants be removed from the US.
Since then social media has been awash with horror stories of people being randomly picked up by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Asked why Jamaicans with permanent residency status would be worried, Nugent suggested that some green card holders were also concerned about what might happen when they are required to renew their cards.
In New York, Ronnie Hammick, President, ExCorrectional Officers Association of Jamaica, said the heightened level of fear was obvious not only among some within the Jamaican community but also among Caribbean nationals on a whole. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)
Reverse migration: Venezuelans head back toward South America after US dreams dashed
Dozens of Venezuelan migrants boarded small boats on an island off the Caribbean coast of Panama on Monday, setting off towards Colombia by sea as part of a reverse migration of families who have given up trying to reach the United States.
At least six boats, each with more than a dozen people aboard, departed the island of Gardi Sugdub in the San Blas Archipelago off the coast of Panama, aiming to reach Playa Miel near the Colombian border. From there, the migrants explained that they planned to continue their southbound journey until arriving home in their native Venezuela.
Fabiola Rodriguez, a Venezuelan migrant who reached Mexico, but was unable to enter the United States, was among dozens who waited to board the small boats over the weekend.
She said that a lack of clarity from Panamanian officials about repatriation options forced her and others to make their way home on their own, despite the costs and the dangers.
A Venezuelan girl died over the weekend, after one
of these boats shipwrecked with more than a dozen migrants on board, according to Panamanian authorities.
Daniel Gonzalez, a Venezuelan man traveling with his wife, daughter, and niece, said that they would rather be in Venezuela than in another country in the region, such as Mexico or Costa Rica. On Sunday, he and his family waited at the port of Niga Kantule for a boat that would take them to Gardi Sugdub island.
"Of course, we wanted to
reach the United States to have a better life," he said. "But that wasn't possible." Advertisement · Scroll to continue
The reverse migration follows U.S. President Donald Trump's crackdown on unlawful migration, including a broad ban on asylum in addition to the elimination of his predecessor's humanitarian parole programmes, which had offered some migrants legal pathways to enter the United States. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Accused Mexican drug lord wants US plea deal without death penalty
Accused Mexican drug kingpin Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada is willing to plead guilty in a deal with Prosecutors in the United States if the arrangement spares him from the death penalty, his lawyer told Reuters on Monday.
Zambada pleaded not guilty in federal court in New
York last September to 17 felony counts including drug trafficking, money laundering and weapons charges. He has been jailed pending trial.
"Mr Zambada does not want to go to trial and is willing to accept responsibility for a charge that does not include the death penalty," lawyer Frank Perez said.
A spokesperson for the US Attorney's office in Brooklyn, which brought the charges, declined to comment.
Zambada, who is in his 70s, was taken into US custody last July at a New Mexico airfield along with one of Guzman's sons, Joaquin Guzman Lopez, in a major coup for US law enforcement. (Reuters)
Ex-Brazil President Rousseff hospitalised in Shanghai, Brazilian media reports
Former Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff, now the head of the BRICS bloc's development bank, has been hospitalised in Shanghai, Brazilian newspaper Folha de Sao Paulo reported on Monday, citing the hospital. Rousseff, 77, was tapped to lead the New Development Bank (NDB) in 2023. Folha reported she was hospitalised at the Shanghai East International Medical Center after presenting high blood pressure, vomiting and dizziness on Friday.
The NDB, which is headquartered in the Chinese city, did not immediately respond to a request for comment outside normal business hours.
The Shanghai East International Medical Center and a representative
for
ment.
Venezuelan migrants Ysarlyn Molina and Lisbianny Amaya, who were hoping to reach the US and decided to return to their country owing to US President Donald Trump's new immigration policies, rest as they wait for a boat to take them to the Colombian border, in Gardi Sugdub, Panama, February 23, 2025 (Reuters/Enea Lebrun photo)
MSS armoured vehicles drive down the street during a deployment near the National Palace, in the city centre of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, in this file photo from July 17, 2024 [Getty Images]
of Rousseff could not be immediately reached
com
Rousseff, Brazil's first woman president, ran the
country from 2011 until being impeached in 2016 during a harsh recession and falling from power. (Excerpt from Reuters)
President of the New Development Bank (NDB), Dilma Rousseff attends the Ninth Annual Meeting of the NDB, a multilateral development bank established by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) in Cape Town, South Africa, August 30, 2024 (Reuters/Esa Alexander photo)
Around the World
OOil settles higher on fresh Iran sanctions, Iraq commitment to OPEC+
OIL NEWS
UN Security Council adopts neutral US stance on war in Ukraine as Trump pursues peace
The United Nations Security Council on Monday adopted a US-drafted resolution on the third anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine that takes a neutral position on the conflict as US President Donald Trump seeks to broker peace.
il prices settled higher on Monday as fresh US sanctions on Iran and a commitment to compensate for overproduction by Iraq added to concerns of near-term supply tightness, helping the market recover some of Friday's steep losses.
Brent crude futures settled up 35 cents, or 0.5 per cent, at US$74.78 a barrel. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures gained 30 cents, or 0.4 per cent, to US$70.70.
On Friday, Brent notched its lowest close since February 6 while WTI had its lowest settlement so far this year.
On Monday, the US Treasury imposed a fresh round of sanctions targeting Iran's oil industry, hitting brokers, tanker operators, and shippers who sell and transport Iranian petroleum.
That might have had a modest impact on oil prices, along with the Iraqi Oil Ministry's reaffirmation of its commitment to the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies (OPEC+) group's supply agreement, UBS analyst Giovanni Staunovo said.
He cautioned, however, that Iranian crude oil exports remain elevated. "Time will tell if (the sanctions) impact exports," he said.
Iraq said it would present an updated plan to compensate for any overproduction of its OPEC+ quotas in recent months. Iraq on Sunday said it will export 185,000 barrels per day from Kurdistan's oilfields through the Iraq-Turkey pipeline once oil shipments resume.
Oil prices were bound to recover from the prior session's steep selloff, when expectations of the resumption in northern Iraqi exports and of an end to the war in Ukraine pulled benchmarks more than US$2 lower, Commodity Context analyst Rory Johnston said.
The market structure has also flashed signs of near-term supply tightness, he added. The premium of front-month Brent futures over the next month's contract was at its highest on Monday since February 11, having climbed steadily over the past week.
Others cautioned oil prices could stay under pressure from talks to end the Ukraine war, which could pave the way for more Russian oil onto the market, and a slew of US tariff measures, which could weigh on economic activity and crude oil demand.
US President Donald Trump said on Monday the US is close to a minerals deal with Ukraine as he and French President Emmanuel Macron held talks that covered prospects for ending the Ukraine war despite stark differences on how to proceed.
Trump said Washington is 'on time' with tariffs against Canada and Mexico, responding to a question about the deadline ending a previous pause on such action which expires next week. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Peace must not mean surrendering
Ukraine, Macron says alongside Trump
French President Emmanuel Macron said any peace deal in Ukraine must come with security guarantees, as he met US President Donald Trump at the White House for talks on the war.
"This peace must not be a surrender of Ukraine, it must not mean a ceasefire without guarantees," he said as the two leaders held a joint news conference following their meeting on Monday.
Trump, who did not mention security guarantees himself, said the cost and burden of securing peace in Ukraine must be paid for by European nations and not just the US.
Macron responded that Europe understood the need to "more fairly share the security burden", and added that talks on the third anniversary of Russia's invasion had shown a path forward.
(Excerpt from BBC News)
The short resolution reflects Trump's upending of US policy on Ukraine after taking office last month and his more conciliatory stance towards Russia. In contrast, former President Joe Biden's Administration led efforts at the United Nations to support Ukraine throughout the war.
Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia acknowledged "constructive changes" in the US position on the conflict. He told the Council the resolution was "not an ideal one", but "a starting point for future efforts towards peaceful settlement".
The 15-member UN Security Council had been deadlocked throughout the war and unable to take any action because Russia holds a veto.
stained. Russia voted in favour after failing to amend it and vetoing European bids to add language supporting Ukraine.
"This resolution puts us on the path to peace. It is a first step, but a crucial one – one of which we should all be proud," acting US Ambassador to the UN, Dorothy Shea told the Council. "Now we must use it to build a peaceful future for Ukraine, Russia, and the international community."
However, Trump's approach to mediation has left Ukraine and European allies wary of his focus on Russia and worried they could be cut out of talks to end the war.
But the 193-member General Assembly has repeatedly supported Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity and called for a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in line with the UN Charter.
The US failed earlier on Monday to convince the General Assembly to pass the same three-paragraph resolution adopted by the Security Council.
“Killing Me Softly”
singer Roberta Flack
dies aged 88
The R&B singer Roberta Flack, best known for the hits
“The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” and “Killing Me Softly With His Song”, has died at the age of 88.
"We are heartbroken that the glorious Roberta Flack passed away this morning, February 24, 2025," said a statement from her representatives.
"She died peacefully surrounded by her family. Roberta broke boundaries and records. She was also a proud educator."
Flack had previously announced in 2022 that she had motor neurone disease, and could no longer sing.
Born in North Carolina and raised in Arlington, Virginia, the musician started out as a classical pianist. She gained a full school scholarship to Howard University aged just 15. Her classical training led
her into teaching, but at night she'd accompany opera singers on piano, singing pop standards during the breaks.
"The whole while I was studying classical music, especially in my younger years, I was also doing a lot of doo-ron-ron, shoo-doo-beedoo, all of that stuff, with my peers, so I've been fortunate enough to be surrounded by music all of my life, the Bach and the Chopin and the Schumann on one hand, and all the rhythm and blues," she explained.
Flack's most famous song was introduced to a new generation of music fans when Lauryn Hill's hip-hop group The Fugees recorded a Grammy-winning cover of “Killing Me Softly”, which they would eventually perform on-stage alongside her.
It topped the charts around the world in 1996.
(Excerpt from BBC News)
The resolution mourns the loss of life in the "RussiaUkraine conflict", reiterates the UN's purpose is to maintain international peace and security and peacefully settle disputes, and urges a swift end to the conflict and a lasting peace.
The Security Council adopted the US resolution with 10 votes in favour, while France, Britain, Denmark, Greece and Slovenia ab-
Britain's UN Ambassador Barbara Woodward told the Council that the terms of peace in Ukraine matter and must "send a message that aggression does not pay".
"This is why there can be no equivalence between Russia and Ukraine in how this Council refers to this war. If we are to find a path to sustainable peace, the Council must be clear on the war's origins," she said. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Israel destroys vast areas of West Bank’s Jenin, sets up army base
Palestinians say Israel is carrying out war tactics employed in Gaza in the occupied West Bank as the military deploys tanks, destroys vast areas of the Jenin refugee camp, carves out roadways and sets up a base there.
Israeli military has ramped up its operations across the occupied West Bank over recent days, including deploying tanks for the first time in decades. Israeli raids have continued overnight amid the heightened tension,
Meanwhile, Hamas accuses Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of “intentionally sabotaging” the Gaza ceasefire deal by postponing the release of 620 Palestinian prisoners and detainees.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) reminds Germany of its legal obligations after the incoming chancellor invites Netanyahu to visit despite an arrest warrant against the Israeli prime minister.
(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)
Trump Administration tells workers they can ignore Musk ultimatum
The US agency that oversees federal workers said on Monday they could ignore a weekend email from tech billionaire Elon Musk that required them to justify their jobs after Musk's demand sparked unusual pushback from some agencies.
Musk's email had directed each of the nation's 2.3 million civil-service workers to provide a five-point summary of their work by 11:59 pm EST (0459 GMT), raising questions about how much authority the world's richest person can wield in President Donald Trump's effort to downsize the US Government.
Musk had warned that
workers who did not respond in detail could lose their jobs. But as the deadline approached, Musk seemed to acknowledge that his plan had run aground.
In other Monday action, a federal Judge blocked the Government downsizing team created by Trump and led by Musk from accessing sensitive data maintained by the US Education Department and another agency. Also on Monday, a group of labour unions that have asked a federal judge to stop the mass firings updated their lawsuit to request that Musk's email be ruled illegal. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Vote results are displayed during the Eleventh Emergency Special Session draft resolution meeting in the United Nations General Assembly on the third anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, at the UN headquarters in New York, US, February 24, 2025 (Reuters/Shannon Stapleton photo)
Roberta Flack scored several number one hits in the 1970s (Getty Images)
Channel your energy wisely. Don't waste time on situations you cannot change or negative individuals trying to rattle your nerves. Focus on using your energy to promote positive gain.
Say no to toxic situations. Move toward peace of mind, even if your journey necessitates difficult choices. Put your time and effort into things that bring you joy.
It's easier to navigate life's land mines if you know what to look out for. Make changes and don't mask problems instead of eliminating them. Deal with things in an assertive fashion.
Be the light everyone looks to for guidance. Your wisdom, experience and gratitude will offer strength to loved ones and help you recognize what's possible. Push forward and achieve great things.
Be a leader, not a follower -- make things happen instead of sitting on the sidelines observing and criticizing others. Join forces with sincere people and find purpose in making positive changes.
An unfamiliar environment will set your mind adrift. Use your experience to get a read on what's new and exciting, and you'll discover the power of positive change. Today is about growth.
Spread the love. Compliment and help those around you, and see what happens. Choose a jubilant approach to life; doors will open, and opportunities will manifest.
Share ideas, lend a helping hand, expand your circle of friends and choose peace of mind and personal happiness over enticement. Make choices based on facts, figures and flexibility.
Observe, listen and assess situations carefully. Stick to the rules and take the path that bypasses indulgent behavior and temptation. Choose wisely, and you'll be proud of your achievements.
Take your time. Refuse to bend or let someone take advantage of you. Speak up and stand up for what's best for you. Protect your physical and emotional well-being and your reputation.
Look on the bright side of life, and you'll attract positive people and input. Make your home your sanctuary, and spend time doing the things that make you happy.
Love makes the world go 'round. Pick up the pieces you left behind and fill your day with positivity and a desire to see the good in others. Life is about choices; do what's best for you.
ARCHIE
Champions Trophy 2025…
Ravindra, Latham, and Bracewell book New Zealand's semi-final spot
So many teams are in transition right now, but all through this Champions Trophy, New Zealand have been showing that their new genera tion is ready for the big time. It was not so long ago that Kane Williamson was carrying this bat ting line-up. Seems Rachin Ravindra wants
that responsibility now. He didn't mind slotting into an unfamiliar position. He didn't flinch having to come out at 15 for 2. He didn't stop smiling when he brought up his hundred, an innings that confirmed not just his team's spot in the
semi-finals but also India's. Pakistan and Bangladesh are now officially knocked out. This was a game that Najmul Hossain Shanto's team had to win to stay alive. But they batted like that was just too much trouble. Bangladesh started at nearly a run a ball. But 10 of the next 15 overs went for three runs or fewer. Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah fell from the pressure created in this period. A combined 511 matches' worth of experience was only good for six runs in a do-or-die game. Their wickets left Shanto with no way
forward. He kept having to readjust to a new partner, to a new match situation and in the end produced a staccato innings of 77 off 110. He could've done better. The others should've done better.
Taskin Ahmed and Nahid Rana raised Bangladesh's hopes with a fiery opening spell, rattling Will Young's stumps in the first over and snaring Williamson for a rare single-digit score. The infield was richly populated at that point. The whole atmosphere was buzzing, the crowd also getting in the act. Into this walked Ravindra. One of the best things about his batting is his touch. It's so pure. Down at number four – he was brought into the XI to replace an ill Daryl Mitchell – there was possibly a risk that he wouldn't be able to take full advantage of that. But as luck would have it, he began his innings within the field restrictions and that meant he could profit from his timing. His first five fours were all about finding the gap because his timing always took care of the rest.
Ravindra had to wait 11 overs since the field spread to find his next boundary, but that didn't mean he was stagnant. His first 23 runs came off 21 balls with five fours. His next 28 runs came off 29 balls with one four. There was one chance in between all that. A mix-up with his Wellington teammate Devon Conway could have resulted in him being run-out had Tanzid Hasan been able to get a direct hit Bangladesh weren't able to es. New
Zealand did. Williamson did have a hand in proceedings here, picking up smart catch es at short midwicket and cover. Michael Bracewell, after wrapping up an un interrupted 10over spell, ran 30 yards to his right to pick up a diving catch that probably wasn't even his. But he de cided to take charge and it worked.
Bangladesh also weren't able to rotate strike. New Zealand could. Those were the biggest points of dif ference between the two teams. The pitch did become much better for bat ting under lights though, a fact Mitchell Santner was looking for ward to when he won the toss and decided to chase and of all people, Bracewell was his ace in the hole with the ball. The 34-year-old offspin-bowling all-rounder himself couldn't believe he'd taken 4 for 26 off 10 uninterrupted overs. In the mid-innings interview, he said "Funny one, once you let go [of the ball] you don't have much control what happens at the other end."
es that they had Taskin on when Tanzid missed – and the runs that got away –would've made this game so much more competitive. As it happened, New Zealand went into the chase knowing all they needed were a couple of partnerships and New Zealand got them. Ravindra put on 57 runs with Conway and then 129 with Tom Latham, who is so good as a crisis manager. You can almost imagine him side-kicking whoever leads the earth's remaining population during the zombie apocalypse. First things first though, there's an International Cricket Council (ICC) trophy up for grabs. (ESPNcricinfo)
Bangladesh (50 ovs maximum)
Tanzid Hasan c Williamson
b Bracewell 24
Najmul Hossain Shanto
(c) c Bracewell
Bracewell contributed 43 of 178 dot balls that plagued Bangladesh. You have to go back to 2012 to find an innings they'd paced quite so poorly. Rotating strike was a struggle and the avenues they chose to get out of that weren't ideal. Perhaps the pitch was too slow in the afternoon to be able to work the ball into gaps. Mushfiqur made a play against Bracewell, but he couldn't clear the long boundary with his slog sweep. Bangladesh were 106 for 4 in the 23rd over. At a time when consolidation was actually needed, Mahmudullah made an ill-advised trip down the track and skewed a leading edge to cover.
Bracewell contributed to his success by slowing his pace down. Bangladesh contributed considerably more. They exit the tournament having faced more than 50 overs of dot balls. Their decision-making left them so short on batting resourc-
Will Young b Taskin Ahmed 0 Devon Conway b Mustafizur Rahman 30 Kane Williamson c †Mushfiqur Rahim
b Nahid Rana 5 Rachin Ravindra c sub (Parvez Hossain Emon)
b Rishad Hossain 112 Tom
runs from
ovs)
Najmul Hossain Shanto batted patiently
Jaker Ali added some valuable runs at the death
Rachin Ravindra celebrates his hundred
Michael Bracewell ended with figures of 4 for 26
all-round heroics stun RCB and Chinnaswamy in Super Over win
An extraordinary night of drama delivered a thriller, with UP Warriorz sending a crowd in excess of 28,000 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium into stunned silence after RCB failed to knock off the nine runs they needed in the Super Over.
In a game that seemed to be headed RCB's way until the last two overs in regulation time, Sophie Ecclestone's ridiculous final-over hitting against Renuka Singh, which went for 17, forced the game into a Super Over. But the showstopper for the night was a sensation al final over Ecclestone delivered to deny Smriti Mandhana and Richa Ghosh as Warriorz sprung their campaign back to life with a second straight win.
The high-octane end
Forty-two needed off 18, with two wickets in hand. Ecclestone had pottered to 3 off eight balls, and had no option but to go for broke, especially with Chinelle Henry, seemingly the last hope for the Warriorz, gone.
Henry, who had muscled an incredible eight sixes in her 23-ball 62 against Delhi Capitals, with a slower delivery with Warriorz needing 47 off 22, she wouldn't have envisaged having to bowl the Super Over.
but the pair were able to flick the switch. Goud, who hustled Wyatt-Hodge with an excellent bumper early on, was picked away for three back-to-back fours in the 13th.
Navgire sparks life into chase
In doing so, Wyatt-Hodge exhibited her range of shots – a cut when offered width, a swat back past the bowler when dug in short and a pummel over extra cover when she went full. Wyatt-Hodge brought up her maiden WPL half-century off 36 balls against
Warriorz two more wickets –-
portunity to go all out in the death overs.able lengths and bowling into the surface by picking her for a sequence of 4,6,4,2 in theent arcs from deep cover to long-on to deep -
side the line and sweep the bowlers off their lengths was particularly noteworthy. She -
Ecclestone got stuck into Georgia Wareham by muscling two sixes in a 13run over. But when Saima Thakor was run out a ball after swinging one out of the ground in the 19th over, it was all on Ecclestone to knock off much of the 18 runs they needed off the last six.
Ecclestone hit 17 in an extraordinary sequence of 6, 6, 4, 1, taking Renuka to the cleaners as she repeatedly missed her lengths. But Ecclestone's single off the fifth ball that left Warriorz needing 1 off the last ball, brought rookie Kranti Goud on strike.
When Goud missed and the batters ran, Ghosh did an MS Dhoni, choosing to spring
nal charge
towards what would have been an extraordinary century, which on most nights would have ended on the winning side.
Perry, Wyatt-Hodge set RCB up Perry offset Mandhana's early loss –against offspin for the 11th time in the WPL – by welcoming Ecclestone with back-to-back fours, her step out to bisect cover and mid-off being the standout. Perry's intent-laden approach brought her a first six when she launched Thakor down the ground. At 42 for 1 at the end of the power play, RCB had a base.
All through her innings, Perry was bubbling with flair. She became the first player to hit the 200-run mark in each of the first three WPLs. She also overtook Meg
With Chamari Athapaththu again on the bench, Warriorz needed some firepower up top, and when Kiran Navgire smashed a 27-ball 51 four nights ago against Capitals, it seemed like they had found an answer.
Navgire tantalised yet again, her uncomplicated stand-and-deliver mantra bringing her 24 off just 12 balls, as she swung at anything remotely in her zone before she was bowled attempting to hoick Renuka. Vrinda Dinesh's run of low scores stretched into a fourth game as she picked out mid-off for 14 as Warriorz lost two early.
Warriorz rise after slide
An injury to Shreyanka Patil opened up a spot for Sneh Rana as a replacement, and she inflicted more agony for the Warriorz when she struck twice in two overs. This put Warriorz in freefall mode, even though Shweta Sehrawat sparked life into the innings with a sprightly 31. But at 125 for 7 in 15, only a freak Henry innings would have silenced the crowd. But when she chopped on to Garth in the 17th, Warriorz needed a miracle, and Ecclestone scripted one straight out of a fantasy. (ESPNcricinfo)
Sophie Ecclestone won it for UP Warriorz in the Super Over
Ellyse Perry brought up a smashing half-century
Richa Ghosh ran Sophie Ecclestone out for WPL's first Super Over
Kiran Navgire went all out from ball one
Ihunting for a match winner and an all-out champion in the January 2025 transfer window, then they have found it in Kelsey Benjamin.
That is by the player’s own estimation, as he disclosed that the only thing missing from his new club for the upcoming Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Elite League Season Seven is a champion which they have found in him.
The prolific and well-loved striker was at the time exclusively speaking with <Guyana Times Sport about his aspirations for the season ahead.
“A champion, that’s the only thing missing and I’ll stay with that,” Benjamin told this publication with a smile.
The striker previously spent most of his time in senior football, plying his trade for the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Football Club but opted for a chance of scenery this season. However, from the way Benjamin described it, the scenery is as different as it is similar.
He explained, “First of all, it’s no different, because the players in this team is players that I started with mostly, coming from youth level in the national team. So, we understand each other. It’s just like I coming from a home to another home.”
Like any of the scores of other players in the League, Benjamin has high hopes for the approaching season. The 2024 season
Slingerz FC find their missing champion in Kelsey Benjamin
was, by Benjamin’s own admission, not his best and as such, the forward is eager to get back to the top of his game.
“I want to get back to my 2023 standard bring a lot to Slingerz team, also with the national team. I have lot to bring to those teams this year and that’s what I’m looking forward to mostly,” Benjamin revealed.
Quizzed about getting back to a competitive level after suffering an untimely injury, Benjamin highlighted that it was very difficult.
He explained, “To be honest, you’ve got to be very motivated to come back from an injury, especially if you was on a top form. I had to fight my way back into the national team.
“Last year was not the best year for me, because I had to work my way back into the national team and it did not go well, but this year will be a blessing,” Banjamin assured.
With his introduction and those of several internationally-based players like Jamaica’s Romaine Brackenridge and Kemar Beckford alongside Canada’s Terique Mohammed; Benjamin is confident that it will all come together for Slingerz FC this year.
He opined, “I feel we could go very far. As I said, the team just needed a champion and somebody with the right motivation to help the players achieve what them want. We get a good group and with the international players also I know them. So, we got that understanding going forward.”
“Yeah, for sure,” the forward concluded on Slingerz’ chances of lifting the Elite League’s Championship trophy this year.
The GFF Elite League is set to kick off in two weeks’ time on Sunday, March 9.
Krammer off to Brazil for training stint
Raydon Krammer, the Chase’s Academic Foundation defender who impressed scouts at last year’s KFC Goodwill International Football Tournament, is off to take up a training opportunity in Brazil, the Petra Organisation revealed on Monday.
Krammer departed Guyana on Monday for Brazil, where he will look to make the most of the opportunity at the Academia De Futbol Real Brasil.
A statement from the KFC Goodwill tournament organisers detailed, “The Petra Organisation is pleased to announce the departure of outstanding junior footballer Raydon Krammer to participate in a two-month training stint at the Academia De Futbol Real Brasil in Brazil.”
Krammer, a student of Chase’s Academic Foundation who hails from Warawatta-Kamarang, Region Seven, received a fully-funded training stint in the neighbouring country after he was adjudged Most Valuable Player (MVP) at the recently-held KFC International Goodwill School Football tournament in December.
The prolific player was identified by Talent Scout Narada Wilson, who attended the tournament to assess
the players on show.
Petra’s Co-Director Troy Mendonca and Krammer’s former school teacher Niel Henrito were present to bid farewell to the player as he undertakes this opportunity of a lifetime at the HighPerformance Development Club. All costs associated with the player’s accommodation, meals, transportation and training will be provided by the Real Brasil. The club will also make provision for Krammer, who is preparing to write the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC )examinations in a few months’ time to continue his studies during his stay in Brazil.
Barbados pip Guyana in Super50 opener
Acrushing 11-run loss was on the cards for Guyana’s senior women on Monday when they began their campaign in the CG United Women’s Super50 Cup at the Conaree Sports Club Ground in Basseterre, St Kitts and Nevis.
Barbados’ Women won the toss and opted to bat first after which the Guyanese got off to a flying start, removing both Bajan openers in Kycia Knight and Asabi Callender for just 11 runs on the board.
However, a 48-run partnership between Trishan Holder and Kyshona Knight offered the Barbadians some consolidation.
Holder contributed 27 in 62 deliveries while Kyshona hit 54 in 122 balls. After
they both perished, Captain Aaliyah Alleyne kept her team going with an unbeaten half-century.
Realeanna Grimmond
b SJ Bruce 9
Shemaine Campbelle C WK c †Kycia A Knight b KO Elliott 25
Shabika Gajnabi st †Kycia A Knight b EF Deane 26
Cherry-Ann Fraser b KO Elliott 26
Sheneta Grimmond st †Kycia
A Knight b KO Elliott 4
Ashmini Munisar st †Kycia A Knight
b EF Deane 17
Kaysia Schultz
Krammer’s school Chase’s Academic Foundation won the KFC Goodwill International School Football title in December 2024 with a victory over St Benedict’s College of Trinidad and Tobago.
The Petra Organisation extends heartfelt gratitude to KFC Guyana; the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports/ National Sport Commission (NSC); the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs and all other stakeholders for making it possible for Raydon to attend the programme.
We would again like to congratulate Krammer and wish him every success during his stay in Brazil.
Bolstered by Alleyne’s brisk 57 in 55 deliveries –decorated with five fours and one six, Barbados’ Women got to 183-5 in their 50 overs. Sheneta Grimmond was the pick of the Guyanese bowlers, claiming 2-17 from 10 overs, while Ashmini Munisar, Cherry-Ann Fraser, and Plaffiana Millington had one scalp each.
In the chase, Katana Mentore and Realeanna Grimmond went back to the dugout early while Mandy Mangru held up one end of the crease for a patient 26 off 58 deliveries. Captain Shemaine Campbelle pitched in with 25 while Shabika Gajnabi and Fraser both hit 26 runs, but the constant fall of wickets hindered the progression of the Guyanese. Munisar hit 17 off 25 balls late in the innings as she strove to lead her team home, but Guyana would eventually falter to the Barbadian bowling, and were routed for 172 in 47.4 overs.
For Barbados, Erin Deane claimed 3-33 from 10 overs while Keila Elliott picked up 3-38 from 10. Guyana will come up against defending champions Jamaica next on Wednesday, February 26 at St Paul’s Sports Complex in Basseterre.
A look at the action between Guyana and Barbados women teams on Monday
Raydon Krammer is flanked by his former schoolteacher, Heil Henrito (left) and Petra Co-Director Troy Mendonca before his departure
Kelsey Benjamin believes he’s the missing piece of Slingerz FC’s championship puzzle
