President Ali tells residents, as widespread public consultations begin on new ‘Model Village Initiative’
emphasises stakeholder input key to process as persons know best what their needs are
VICE-PRESIDENT Dr Bharrat Jagdeo will, today, engage residents of Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice) during a public day, as part of the government’s continued efforts to bring public services and decision-makers closer and directly to communities.
The engagement is
scheduled to begin at 10:00 a.m. at Watooka House in Linden and will see the Vice-President accompanied by several Cabinet ministers and senior government officials.
Residents will have the opportunity to raise concerns, seek updates on government programmes and
discuss issues affecting their communities directly with members of the administration.
The outreach builds on similar exercises across the country, where thousands of Guyanese met one-on-one with the Vice President and government officials to seek assistance on matters rang-
ing from housing and land issues to public assistance, National Insurance Scheme (NIS) concerns, drainage, street lighting and community infrastructure, among other things.
Many of the issues were resolved during the exercise, while others were referred to the relevant agencies for follow-up.
“We’ve done the campaign, and now we have to deliver on what we promised our people,” Dr Jagdeo had told reporters during a recent public day activity.
He said that the exercise was designed to give people direct access to ministers and technical staff in order to resolve long-standing problems.
Dr Jagdeo noted that the objective is to resolve as many issues as possible onthe-spot, and where that is not immediately possible, to put in place a clear follow-up process involving technical officers and subsequent meetings.
The Public Day initiative forms part of the government’s ongoing outreach across the country, providing citizens with direct access to government officials while facilitating the timely resolution of matters relating to public services and national development.
Residents from across Region Ten have been encouraged to attend and take advantage of the opportunity to interact directly with the Vice-President, Cabinet ministers and representatives of various government agencies. Over the past six years, the PPP/C government has directed unprecedented resources into Linden and Region 10.
This surge in spending has touched nearly every sector of regional life, from roads and drainage to healthcare, education, energy and job creation, reflecting a deliberate strategy to ensure no region is left behind in the country’s development.
Infrastructure has been one of the most visible areas of transformation. The government had pointed to billions of dollars spent on roads in the region, with hundreds of small contrac-
tors from the area engaged in the roadwork, alongside the ongoing upgrade of the Soesdyke-Linden Highway.
Drainage has also received significant attention, with more than $1.5 billion spent on drainage projects between 2020 and 2024 to address longstanding flooding problems in areas such as Wismar and Mackenzie.
Work on the Mackenzie-Wismar Bridge and carriageway enhancements is also progressing smoothly.
Bridges and road networks have likewise been targeted for upgrades, while the government commissioned the modern Bayrock National Stadium, which it says opens new recreational and economic opportunities for the region’s youth and residents.
Plans have also been outlined to modernise the Linden airstrip into a proper regional facility to support tourism and connectivity.
Utilities and social services have similarly seen substantial investment. A US$22.5 million contract was signed for construction of Guyana’s largest solar farm, a 15-megawatt facility in Linden, intended to deliver cleaner, more reliable energy and reduce dependence on imported fuel, alongside continued electricity and water subsidies.
Economic and employment gains have been another central feature of the government’s approach to Linden.
The Guyana Office for Investment has said tens of millions of dollars in investment have been earmarked for the mining town, including packages with a cement plant expanding home construction and a medical supply company planning oxygen bottling and packaging operations.
--President Ali tells residents, as widespread public consultations begin on new ‘Model Village Initiative’
--emphasises stakeholder input key to process as persons know best what their needs are
PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali has rolled out an ambitious, nationwide village development programme built around four pillars: connectivity, community, commerce and care, that will touch every village in Guyana.
Addressing the beginning of the public consultations on this “Model Village ini-
Consultations continued throughout Monday at Zeelugt, Goed Fortuin, Parfait Harmonie and Tuschen, before concluding at the Pouderoyen Market.
The exercise moves to Region Four today, with sessions scheduled for Kaneville, Grove and Diamond along the East Bank of Demerara.
es, artisans and community leaders, not simply a cluster of houses. He described the village as the historic cradle of the nation, where schools, churches, mosques, temples, farms and workshops were first built, and where artisans once passed their skills from generation to generation.
Laying out his vision for a model village, Dr Ali ex-
He said the key questions are whether children can get to school safely, whether farmers can transport produce to market, whether emergency services can respond quickly, and whether businesses can operate efficiently.
On the community front, Dr Ali said the aim is to rebuild the social fabric so that villages become more than a
tiative” in Leonora on the West Coast Demerara on Monday, Dr Ali told residents that national prosperity must translate into “community prosperity,” and warned that rapid growth must not turn villages into mere “dormitories” where people only sleep.
“If development does not reach the level of the village, then development has not fully reached the people,” Dr Ali said, adding: “We are launching a programme that would eventually touch every single village in our country.”
Citing the 2022 national census, the President noted that almost three out of every four Guyanese still reside in villages, even with the increase in the number of towns.
He described the coastland as “essentially a ribbon of villages, stretching from Crabwood Creek to Charity,” arguing that any serious development strategy must start where most people actually live.
Dr Ali stressed that residents, not the government alone, must drive the design of their villages, since they understand local needs best.
“We are not here simply to tell you what the village should look like. We are here to listen, because the people who live in the village know that village better than anyone else,” he said, adding: “You know where the roads are needed. You know where the drainage problems are. You know where the children play. You know where the businesses are. You know where the heavy machinery creates problems. You know where lighting is needed. You know where the playground should be. You know where services are missing. You know what makes your village special.”
While the government will improve infrastructure, services and the policy environment, the President said villages should be seen as an “ecosystem” that produces food, skills, business-
plained that such a community is not defined merely by paved roads or streetlights, but by a place where people can live well, work, learn, raise families, worship, build businesses, access services and feel a strong sense of belonging.
“It should be physically sound, socially connected, economically productive, environmentally attractive and safe. And importantly, it should retain its own character,” he said, noting: “We do not want to erase the character of our communities. We want to develop villages that are well planned while preserving what makes each village unique.”
On connectivity, the President said the focus will be on proper roads, bridges, culverts, reliable drainage, street lighting, pedestrian crossings, parking, and designated areas for heavy-duty machinery, while ensuring residents are efficiently linked to schools, workplaces, markets and services.
elsewhere.
Instead, the government wants to make villages economically self-sustaining, with space for agriculture, markets, shops, workshops, light manufacturing, digital businesses and other forms of entrepreneurship.
The final pillar, care, speaks to the quality, dignity and well-being of residents,
It also covers stewardship of the physical environment, such as proper waste management, clean drains, maintained bridges, green spaces and trees.
“The village must be a place of care and concern, a place of cradling the future,” he said, noting: “Care must become a community value. We
collection of houses, while on commerce, he argued that villages cannot thrive if residents must leave daily to find economic opportunity
Dr Ali said, including access to education, health services, safety and security, and inclusion of persons with disabilities.
must develop a culture in which people say, ‘This is my village, and I have a responsibility for how it looks and how people live in it.’”
GUYANA’S Permanent Representative to the United Nations (UN), Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, has pledged to restore confidence in the world body and strengthen multilateral co-operation if elected the next UN Secretary-General, while noting that “it is our turn” for Latin America and the Caribbean to assume the organisation’s top leadership post.
Rodrigues-Birkett was at the time responding to questions during the Regional Dialogue on the Future Leadership of the United Nations, convened by Uruguay in its capacity as Pro Tempore Presidency of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC).
During the engagement, she stated that the region possesses both the competence and leadership required to lead the UN at a time of mounting global challenges.
“The answer is simple: it is our turn,” she said, noting that Latin America and the Caribbean should not be
overlooked in the selection process.
She added that the region has demonstrated its capacity to lead, pointing out that five candidates have been nominated for the position.
Rodrigues-Birkett expressed gratitude for her nomination by the Government of Guyana and President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, as well as the endorsement of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), describing the support as a strong vote of confidence in her candidacy.
She argued that the region faces several pressing issues requiring collective global action, including climate change, threats to peace and security, and transnational organised crime.
Many countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, she noted, are on the frontlines of climate change and depend on an effective multilateral system to tackle challenges that transcend national borders.
“As Secretary-General, this is what I will do: work to strengthen multilateralism, to
bridge divides and to ensure that the United Nations has the confidence to work on peace,” she said.
Rodrigues-Birkett also underscored that calls for a stronger, more representative and rules-based multilateral system are not limited to Latin America and the Caribbean, but are echoed by member states across all regions.
Speaking on her engagements with UN member states throughout her campaign, she said governments are seeking a Secretary-General capable of rebuilding confidence in the organisation, managing geopolitical tensions, leading credible institutional reforms and delivering measurable results on the ground.
Among the priorities she identified were ensuring financial prudence within the UN system, making better use of available resources to prevent and resolve conflicts, promoting fair geographical representation and strengthening the delivery of humanitarian and development assistance to the world’s most vulnerable populations.
She also pledged to pursue continuous reform of the UN Secretariat, thereby ensuring that it remains effective, efficient and responsive to evolving global needs.
“I intend to provide leadership that is practical, inclusive and pragmatic, but that is always principled,” she said.
MINISTER of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation, Zulfikar Ally, has introduced ‘The Voice’, a new website designed to give citizens and public servants a direct channel to share ideas, raise concerns and offer recommendations aimed at improving public services.
Speaking during an interview, Minister Ally said the initiative was created to ensure that valuable suggestions from frontline public servants and members of the public reach decision-makers more quickly.
“Often times, there are people who have so many good ideas within the various agencies and ministries that we have, and we don’t always get the opportunity to hear them,” the minister said.
Through the website https://mpsmandate.gov.gy/ users can submit suggestions, report workplace or service-related issues and provide recommendations for improving government operations. Ally said he personally reviews submissions, contacts users directly when additional information is needed and works to resolve issues where possible.
“I will either try to fix the problem or explain why it cannot be fixed or what the challenges are,” he explained, adding that many of the conversations have evolved beyond complaints to constructive discussions on making the public service more efficient.
The minister highlighted several examples of the website’s early impact. In one case, a public servant from Berbice who had not been paid for several months used the platform to report the issue. Following engagement with the relevant ministry and its Human Resources Department, the matter was resolved and the employee was added to the payroll.
Minister Ally also cited feedback from citizens who submitted recommendations to improve the public ser-
vice, including suggestions for the education sector and customer service at the Diamond Regional Hospital. He said these contributions demonstrate the value of engaging directly with citizens to identify practical improvements that can enhance the delivery of government services.
According to the minister, the platform also supports President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s vision of maintaining close engagement between the government and citizens.
“The idea here is that we want the public to be engaged in the decision-making. We want the public also to be engaged in identifying what those issues are so that we can know about them,” the public service minister said.
The minister explained that because the platform is web-based, citizens can access it from a mobile phone, tablet or computer at their convenience.
Persons wishing to submit suggestions or concerns can visit mpsmandate.gov. gy, where they can complete a short online form with their contact information and details of their issue or recommendation.
(DPI)
Ravindra Mohabir, on Monday, adjourned the murder case against three Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) employees charged in connection with the deadly MV Barima disaster until September 7 after the prosecutor requested more time to complete disclosure of evidence to the defence.
The matter was called
on Monday before Magistrate Mohabir at the Charity Magistrate’s Court, where Senior Police Legal Advisor Mandel Moore advised that the prosecution had not yet completed the disclosure process, having served only part of the evidence on the defence.
Moore also informed the court that he had secured the fiat authorising him to prosecute the indictable murder case. According to the prosecution, additional time is needed to complete the disclosure of witness statements, documentary evidence and other material intended to be relied upon during the proceedings.
The case was subsequent-
ly adjourned until September 7, when the prosecution is expected to provide full disclosure.
The three accused appeared virtually from prison while handcuffed.
They are Kevin Price, called “KP”, a 40-year-old captain of Melanie Damishana, East Coast Demerara (ECD); Rondell Dwayne Roberts, a 42-year-old chief mate of Grove Public Road, East Bank Demerara (EBD); and Delon Granderson, 33, a goods superintendent of Fellowship, West Coast Demerara (WCD).
A day after the vessel capsized, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips disclosed that two crew members, including the captain, had tested positive for marijuana. He has since said the accused continue to receive psychosocial support while the criminal proceedings are ongoing.
Attorney Dr. Dexter Todd led the defence team
TURN TO PAGE 7
WHEN Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation, Zulfikar Ally, launched “The Voice,” a simple web portal at mpsmandate.gov.gy, he opened something Guyana had long needed: a direct, unfiltered line between everyday citizens, frontline public servants, and the decision-makers who can actually act on their ideas.
The early results show just how powerful that kind of access can be. Take the case of the Berbice public servant who had gone unpaid for months. In a wide system, such a problem could easily have drifted for far longer, lost somewhere between departments. Instead, a
single submission through “The Voice” reached the minister directly, prompted swift engagement with the relevant Human Resource Department, and resolved the matter with the employee restored to payroll. That is government working exactly as it should, responsive, human, and fast.
What makes this initiative so encouraging is not merely the technology, but the spirit behind it. Minister Ally has committed to personally reviewing submissions and following up with the people who send them, whether that means fixing a problem outright or honestly explaining why something cannot be fixed yet.
That kind of direct accountabil-
ity is rare, and it sends a powerful signal: ideas from frontline workers and ordinary citizens matter, and they will be heard by someone with the authority to act.
The suggestions pouring in, from improvements in the education sector to better customer service at the Diamond Regional Hospital, show that Guyanese are ready and eager to be partners in improving their own public services.
As the minister rightly noted, many conversations that begin as complaints evolve into constructive ideas for making government more efficient. That shift, from grievance to genuine collaboration, is exactly the kind of civic engagement a modern Public Service should welcome.
This platform is also a natural extension of President, Dr Irfaan Ali’s vision of close, continuous engagement between government and citizens.
By making the portal accessible from any phone, tablet, or computer, the administration has removed the barriers that so often keep people from being heard. Anyone, anywhere in Guyana, can now raise an issue or offer an idea with just a short online form.
“The Voice” is a strong example of practical, people-centred governance: identify problems quickly, respond honestly, and treat the public as active participants in shaping the services they rely on.
A public servant got paid. Citizens saw their ideas taken seriously and a government demonstrated that it is genuinely listening,
If this early momentum continues, “The Voice” stands to become a model for how technology and political will can combine to make government more transparent, more responsive, and more connected to the people it serves.
Dear Editor,
ON vacation for the past two weeks from New York, I had occasion to drive through the Stabroek Market area and America Street after a long time to do business.
The place seems to have gotten worst since I left a few years ago. It seemed as though it has become a war zone where our future was on collision course with our past, with congestion caused by an errant City Constabulary seeming to overcome the increasing demand for more road space by the daily surge of
pedestrians, commercial vehicles and public transportation buses.
In spite of all the letters I read online on the situation, nothing seems to have been done, or maybe the constabulary has become constipated with the unflappable attitudes of the vendors.
True to form, one offending vendor makes this point as they park their wares 24/7 on the absolute corner of the northern side of America and Water Streets, a living, abhorrent and complete nuisance drivers of large vehicles and pedestrians alike, as this vendor along with the many others continue to thumb their noses at
the law.
Any vehicle parked on any corner in the manner shown in the attached picture is liable for a $5,000 fine. How much money does this vendor owe in fines? Has this vendor paid off these fines in bribes to the constabulary? They seem to have made this spot their transported or titled property.
What is worse is that any driver jamming any of the encumbrances of the vendors is likely to get tied up in a showdown and be liable for property damage which should not have been there in the first place.
Could the relevant authorities kindly see about clearing the America and Water Streets corner permanently and also rein in vendors who bully their way onto the roads, making it more difficult and next to impossible for the free passage of vehicles and pedestrians, and for me also for the remaining two weeks of my vacation.
Stiffer fines of $50,000 to $100,000 are needed to combat these errant and abusive vendors. The sooner the better, come Christmas.
Sincerely, Paul Bonner.
PLAYING out right now in Guyana is the politics of insanity. Even a million geniuses cannot write a defence of what is taking place right now in Georgetown.
The opposition and their surrogates in civil society and the private media want the government ASAP to contact a foreign salvage company and employ it to raise the MV Barima.
Notice how the goalpost has shifted. They wanted the ship to be raised rather than having it as a memorial site. The government agreed. Now they want the salvage company to be chosen right away. There must not be a tender. There must not be a search. A company must be contacted right away and let the operation begin.
However, is saying that is a political moron that should never be in politics. But suppose the person is not a fool but is laying a trap for
the government? Let’s start with the exigency argument.
No government around the world would pay almost a million American dollars (it may be more to raise the MV Barima) to a company whose credentials it has not researched.
The employing government has to look at competitors and their track records. No government anywhere in the world just because of urgency, is going to rush to a salvage company and say, please come and raise this ship for us right away. The country is opening up itself to financial exploitation. That company could sense that because urgency is a factor, demand more than market price.
Secondly, there are different salvage companies with varying technological capacities. The Guyana Government, as a matter of policy, has to know the capability of the operator it is
employing. Commonsense would dictate that you survey the field to see which firm offers what services and the primary factor must be of utmost consideration -- experience in removing wrecks from the ocean bed.
We have the world’s stupidest opposition politicians. Can one at the level of mental sanity comprehend what these people are asking for? Here is what these people are requesting of the government: time cannot be wasted, contact ASAP a salvage firm and let them raise the MV Barima.
Can anyone ask a government to do such a stupid thing? Well, there are such idiots in this country.
This explains why not most, but all opposition politicians would never face an independent interviewer. They are afraid of questions that they cannot answer.
From now, until their political careers are over, they
will not sit down with an independent media outfit and discuss their politics. Which interviewer would not ask how wise it is for a government to contact an operator that removes shipwrecks without surveying the firms that do such operations?
I noted in the opening paragraphs; could it be a trap? I do not think any member of the Cabinet of Guyana is so naïve not to see the gambit.
There are two stratagems being worked out here by the opposition. In analysing these conspiracies, the analyst must at all times understand what is playing out here by the opposition is realpolitik and not compassion.
I remarked in two previous columns on the ferry disaster, that Guyana is inside the vortex of Adriana Younge 2.0. The immediate raising of the MV Barima is a demand to score political points.
The two stratagems are to
create a national scandal that the government chose a company whose owner it knows. The cry would be there were no professional criteria in the selection.
The second plot is to blame the government for identifying a mediocre company if the salvaging goes wrongly. Anyone who studies Guyana’s crude and insensitive politics would know the shape the game will take. I know these people.
Here is what will happen.
Lifting the MV Barima went badly. Huge parts were not recovered.
Here is what the wolves are going to shout about: the government took a company from Malaysia. They know that Italy had more competent operators, but they ignored the Italian companies.
One letter -writer, Keith Bernard who is not a supporter of the government, quoted what one of the French divers said – the wreck may not
be recoverable. Against this warning, the government should take time and choose carefully.
I end with a point that needs to be stressed over and over and I will do so on this page.
If the government demands EXXON renegotiate the contract and during renegotiation difficulties, the EU, Canada, the US and the UN say that Guyana is endangering investments in the Caribbean, the first people to condemn Guyana will be the people who are clamouring for unconditional renegotiation. Some people in this country practise degenerate and insane politics.
The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.
representing Price and Granderson, alongside attorneys Dexter Smartt, Keona Higgins, Eden Corbin and Angel Stephens. Roberts was represented by attorney-at-law Everton Singh-Lammy.
The three men were jointly charged following legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
They first appeared before Chief Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on July 28, where they were jointly charged with murder contrary to common law.
They were not required to plead to the indictable offence and were remanded to prison before the matter was transferred to the Charity Magistrate’s Court.
Police allege that on July 18, 2026, at a location 9.3 nautical miles, bearing 040
degrees, off the Essequibo Coast near Devonshire Castle, the three men murdered 68 named victims and other persons unknown.
Those named in the charge are Kevin Wilson, Claymont King, Oxwell John, Roma Mendonca, Nathaniel Matabheek, Nathalia Matabheek, Rachel Wells Matabheek, Ezekiel Matabheek, Cheriannys Valenzuela, Orin Clarke, Edith Gordon, Omar Harris, Paul Seapersaud, Andriel Bautista, Youlanda Marks, Gwenette Marks, Shenira Smith, Cleiveliz Fraser, Vivianna Saddurddin, Argelys Kelly Williams, Devon Mars, Robina Hernandez, Tendhi Stanford, Adans Williams, Ranaldo Poon, Aarave Daniels, Marcia Beharry and Leonard Persaud.
Also listed are Mariam
Bernard, Ravindra Singh, Shivana LaCruz Ramsindo, Christiani Rodrigues, Annalisa Murray, Owen Arthur, Loveisa Bovell, Joshua Arthur, Ranaldo Pickering, Bibi Mohamed, Sylvester Peters, Shawn John, Akelah Rodrigues, Vishawn Ramjattan, Nelly Duesberry, Samara Manoharlall, Sherlon Joseph, Timar Manoharlall, Dellon Gaskin, Percy France, Alicia Atkinson, Dwyane Forbes, Orin Europe and Orwin Europe.
The remaining victims named in the charge are Justin Mury, Odessa Mury, Reshana David, Kishana Sam, Tiona Sam, Elizabeth Bowin, Argany Williams, Omarions Europe, Jacob Jerome, Mark Abrams, Ashleena Bovell, Kyle Thomas, Carlton Bennett, Navessa Bovell, Martin Ishmael and Jason Headley,
along with other persons unknown.
The charges stem from what has been described as Guyana’s deadliest maritime disaster.
The MV Barima capsized while travelling from Georgetown to Port Kaituma, Region One (Barima-Waini), on the night of July 18. The passenger and cargo ferry was carrying an estimated 179 passengers and crew when it overturned.
Many passengers were thrown into the Atlantic Ocean while others became trapped inside the vessel as it sank.
The disaster claimed 73 lives, while 76 passengers survived.
Authorities have said about 30 persons remain unaccounted for.
The sinking triggered
Guyana’s largest maritime search, rescue and recovery operation, involving the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard, Guyana Police Force, Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), Guyana Fire Service, Civil Defence Commission, local fishermen, private vessels and international partners.
Search teams combed hundreds of square nautical miles and divers conducted repeated underwater searches in an effort to recover victims trapped inside the wreck.
The tragedy also prompted the Government to establish a five-member Commission of Inquiry (CoI), which has been tasked with determining the circumstances surrounding the sinking, examining the vessel’s seaworthiness, assessing regulatory oversight, reviewing
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the emergency response and recommending reforms to improve maritime safety.
When the matter resumes on September 7, the prosecution is expected to confirm that disclosure has been completed, paving the way for paper committal proceedings. Under that process, the magistrate will decide, based on the prosecution’s written evidence rather than live witness testimony, whether there is sufficient evidence to commit the three accused to stand trial in the High Court. Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Shalimar Ali-Hack, SC, has made it clear that the criminal proceedings arising from the MV Barima tragedy will not be affected by the establishment of the CoI, stating that both processes can proceed simultaneously.
GUYANESE should brace for a punishing stretch of heat over the coming months, with the number of hot-spell days this year projected to nearly triple the historical norm, the Guyana Hydrometeorological Service (Hydromet) has warned.
In its latest Seasonal Outlook, Hydromet, in a press release, said the country is moving out of the rainy season and into a period of strengthening El Niño conditions that will bring hotter-than-normal temperatures and a sharp rise in hot spells from now through at least October.
El Niño, the periodic warming of ocean-surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific accompanied by weaker trade winds, is known to trigger
drier, hotter weather patterns across Guyana.
This year’s effect, according to Hydromet, could be unusually severe: while the country typically records up to 30 hot-spell days annually, forecasters now expect as many as 80 — a hot spell being defined as two or more consecutive days of extreme temperatures.
Regions Four, Five, Six, Eight and 10 are expected to bear the brunt of the heat, with Hydromet forecasting that all parts of the country will see fewer wet days alongside above-normal day and night temperatures.
Hydromet cautioned that the extended dry, hot conditions could ripple across several areas of national life if residents and authorities are not prepared.
Farmers face the most
immediate risk, with crops likely to come under moisture stress, pastures deteriorating in quality, and livestock requiring more water to stay healthy.
That strain is expected to extend to the country’s broader water resources, with the dry spell likely to reduce water availability for households, agriculture and other economic activities.
The heat is also expected to drive up electricity demand, as more households and businesses turn to fans and air conditioning, adding pressure to the national power grid. In schools, Hydromet warned that prolonged extreme heat raises the risk of heat stress and uncomfortable classroom conditions for students.
Hinterland transportation networks could feel the
effects too, with low river levels threatening to disrupt the movement of people and goods, while unpaved roads are expected to grow dustier, cutting down visibility for travellers.
The dry vegetation brought on by the extended heat also raises the likelihood of bush and forest fires, particularly in forested and savannah regions.
Perhaps most pressing is the public-health risk. Hydromet warned that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke, with children, older adults, people with underlying medical conditions, and outdoor workers most at risk.
With the hotter months ahead, Hydromet is urging Guyanese to take precautions, including:
• Staying hydrated throughout the day
• Conserving water wherever possible during the prolonged dry period
• Avoiding strenuous outdoor activity during peak midday hours, between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
• Wearing light, loose-fitting clothing
• Ensuring schools have adequate drinking water and promote heat safety, while monitoring official weather advisories
• Refraining from burning rubbish or vegetation, which could spark fires
• Keeping close watch on crops and livestock to ensure continued access to quality water
Despite the outlook, Hydromet noted that El Niño does not rule out rainfall entirely, and days of significant rain remain possible, even during this warmer, drier period.
The agency said it will continue monitoring conditions closely and will issue further updates to help the public and relevant sectors prepare and make informed decisions in the months ahead.
RESIDENTS and commuters in Region Eight are set to benefit from major improvements to the Mahdia-Campbelltown access
road, with the region’s newly acquired motor grader being used for rehabilitation works.
Regional Executive Offi-
cer, (REO) Marti DeSouza, said the project fulfils a commitment made to residents after concerns were raised about the road’s condition,
particularly during the rainy season.
The works include grading and reshaping the roadway to eliminate potholes, improve accessibility and make travel safer and more reliable.
DeSouza said the project marks the start of a wider programme to upgrade community roads and bridges across Region Eight with support from the Central Government.
He also urged motorists to drive with caution, reduce their speed and be mindful of residents and businesses along the route as the improved roadway may generate dust during the dry season. (Modified from NCN)
THE Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) is advancing its diagnostic capacity through the expansion of medical imaging services, including the construction of a dedicated Medical Imaging Centre and the planned introduction of an Electronic Health Record (EHR) system aimed at improving access, efficiency and coordination of patient care.
As Guyana’s national referral hospital, GPHC provides medical imaging services to patients from all 10 administrative regions, supporting emergency care, routine examinations, complex surgical procedures and specialised treatment.
The hospital’s Medical Imaging Department offers a range of diagnostic services, including X-ray imaging, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic
resonance imaging (MRI), mammography, fluoroscopy and interventional radiology.
These services provide healthcare professionals with detailed information to support the diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of a wide range of medical conditions.
X-ray imaging is used to examine bones, the chest and other areas of the body, while ultrasound provides a non-invasive means of assessing internal organs, monitoring pregnancies, examining tissues and guiding certain medical procedures.
CT scans produce detailed images that assist in diagnosing conditions such as strokes, traumatic injuries, tumours and internal bleeding.
MRI technology provides detailed images of soft tissues, including the brain, spine and joints. Mammography supports the early detection and assessment of breast abnor-
malities, while fluoroscopy provides real-time imaging during diagnostic examinations and medical procedures. Interventional radiology uses
GUYANA is exploring opportunities to strengthen international cooperation on biodiversity conservation through potential engagement with the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), following discussions between Guyana’s High Commissioner to India, Dharamkumar Seeraj, and the alliance’s Director General, Shri S.P. Yadav.
The discussions took place during a courtesy visit by Yadav to the Guyana High Commission in New Delhi, where High Commissioner Seeraj was accompanied by Counsellor Mrs Ronalda Edwards-Horatio.
The meeting focused on Guyana’s possible involvement in the IBCA and areas for closer collaboration in wildlife and biodiversity conservation.
The IBCA is a flagship global initiative of the Government of India that brings together countries within the natural ranges of the world’s seven big cat species — the lion, tiger, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar and puma. The alliance seeks to advance conservation through international cooperation, knowledge sharing, capacity building and mutual support.
During the engagement,
Guyana’s High Commissioner to India, Dharamkumar Seeraj, and the alliance’s Director General, Shri S.P. Yadav
High Commissioner Seeraj highlighted Guyana’s Global Biodiversity Alliance, noting that the two initiatives share a common vision and have complementary objectives aimed at encouraging collective action to protect the world’s natural heritage.
He underscored Guyana’s position that sustainable development and environmental conservation are mutually reinforcing, with effective conservation measures contributing to stronger ecosystems, improved livelihoods,
greater resilience and global efforts to address climate change and biodiversity loss.
Guyana, which is home to extensive forests and a wide range of wildlife, has continued to promote international cooperation as part of its broader environmental and sustainable development agenda.
The meeting reaffirmed the importance of global partnerships in safeguarding biodiversity and advancing a more sustainable and resilient future.
imaging guidance to support minimally invasive procedures for both diagnosis and treatment.
The development of medical imaging services at GPHC dates back to the early 1960s, when Norma Odle returned to Guyana from England after completing her
studies in 1961.
At the time, the hospital’s diagnostic imaging services were largely limited to X-ray examinations. Recognising the need for trained personnel to support the expansion of the field, Odle established a training programme to prepare future medical imaging professionals. Her work helped lay the foundation for the growth of the department and contributed to the development of a skilled local workforce capable of supporting improved diagnostic services.
Today, the department is TURN TO PAGE 17
PRESIDENT Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has announced that post offices in Guyana will be transformed into government service centres, expanding their role beyond traditional postal services.
The initiative seeks to transform the facilities to deliver a wider range of government services, making them more accessible to communities.
The president made the announcement on Monday during a consultation with residents at the Goed Fortuin Primary School in Region Three. “We have to change all of the post offices beyond postal service, because we need these government service centres all across the country,” President Ali said. He added that residents will soon see the transformation taking shape. (DPI)
THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) has warned members of the public about a fraudulent text-message scheme in which scammers are posing as police officials and issuing fake traffic fine notices designed to obtain personal and financial information.
In a public advisory issued on Monday, the GPF said the messages falsely inform recipients that they have outstanding traffic fines and threaten legal action, additional penalties or court proceedings unless payment is made within a specified period.
The fraudulent messages also direct recipients to an unauthorised website, where they may be asked to provide personal, banking or payment information. The Force stressed that the messages are not authentic and did not originate from the GPF. Members of the public have been advised not to click on suspicious links contained in unsolicited text messages, enter personal or financial information on unverified websites, or make payments through unauthorised online platforms.
The GPF further clarified that its only official website is www.guyanapoliceforce.gy and that traffic fine payments are made through MMG, not by the card-payment system being promoted in the scam. Persons seeking to verify or pay traffic fines are urged to use only the official portal accessible through the GPF’s website.
The police have advised anyone who receives one of the fraudulent messages to delete it immediately, report it to the Force and alert relatives and friends, particularly elderly and vulnerable persons who may be more susceptible to such schemes.
The GPF said it is actively investigating the matter and is working with relevant authorities to identify those responsible.
The Force also appealed for public cooperation as efforts continue to combat cyber-enabled fraud and protect citizens from online scams.
--with expanded four-day programme
THE Guyana Prize Literary Festival is back, promising four days of literary celebrations, creative exchange, and cultural performances.
The event being hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport commences from August 6 to 9.
The festival, which is free to the public, will bring together writers, poets, readers and literature enthusiasts at multiple venues, including Castellani House, the Pegasus Hotel and the National Cultural Centre.
According to the ministry on Monday, this year’s programme features more events than previous editions.
The ministry said it reinforced the government’s commitment to promoting literature and the creative arts. Beyond recognising literary excellence, the festival will offer a diverse programme of engaging workshops, storytelling sessions, the National Poetry Slam, a dramatic stage production and the prestigious Guyana Prize Award Ceremony
The awards remain the centerpiece of the festival, honouring outstanding works by Guyanese authors in the categories of fiction, drama, poetry and creative non-fiction.
The expanded programme is expected to attract participants from across Guyana and the wider Caribbean. (DPI)
and so far, we are pleased about what we are achieving and our target… as for the weather and the land here,
Construction on the Corentyne Highway expansion continues to gather momentum, with works on the project’s second lot progressing ahead of schedule
By Bebi Shafeah Oosman
CONSTRUCTION on the Corentyne Highway expansion continues to gather momentum, with works on the project’s second lot progressing ahead of schedule.
Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Madanlall Ramraj, recently provided an update during one of the ministry’s fortnightly inspections of the ongoing project, expressing satisfaction with the pace of construction and the contractor’s performance.
According to the minister, the massive highway expansion has been divided into three sections; lots one, two and three, with significant progress being recorded on Lot Two.
“The expansion of the Corentyne Highway is in three lots, Lots One, Two and Three, and so we are in the second lot here and work is moving rapidly in this lot,” Ramraj said during the July site visit.
He noted that major drainage works have already been completed, marking an important milestone in the
project. With that phase finished, contractors have shifted their attention to preparing the roadway itself.
“As you can see, both of the drains have been completed and now crush and run, the main aspect of the road, has to be done.
This contractor is moving very fast indeed,” the minister stated.
Ramraj said the progress made so far has exceeded expectations, with the contractor outperforming the scheduled targets.
“We are very happy that they are on schedule,” he said, noting that by this stage of construction, the project was expected to have reached approximately 22 percent completion.
Instead, work had already advanced to 23 percent.
“So, they are above where they should have been,” the minister added.
Minister Ramraj has maintained regular fortnightly inspections to monitor progress, ensure quality standards are met and keep the project on track for completion.
“We are very happy what
is happening here right now, even though we are in extended weather, you can see work is progressing rapidly here right now.”
The Corentyne Highway expansion is one of the government’s major infrastructural investments aimed at modernising Guyana’s road network.
Once completed, the upgraded highway is expected to improve traffic flow, reduce travel times, strengthen road safety and support increased economic activities along the Corentyne corridor.
“They will have a perfect four-lane road, less wear and tear on their vehicle[s], more trade expected to move between Suriname and you know His Excellency several times spoke about bridging Suriname up to Brazil, roadways, bridges, etc, so it’s more training, more development; it is moving our country to the next level.”
Meanwhile, a representative of the company, China Road and Bridge Corporation, carrying out the works on the second lot stated that “so far, we have gotten very firm and very good support
we are pleased with that you know sometimes the weather is very good.”
The company has been on the ground for 11 months now, “and we are trying to stick with the progress that goes well…”
RESIDENTS of Pouderoyen were on Monday presented with plans for a modern two-storey market that President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali said will serve as a major economic hub while creating new opportunities for businesses and vendors.
The market will feature more than 140 commercial spaces, a food court, farmers’ market, dedicated vending areas, parking, modern sanitation facilities and waste management systems.
The head of state explained that the facility is being designed to attract visitors beyond traditional market days by hosting cultural activities
It will provide a space where residents can shop, dine and conduct business throughout the week.
The president said the new market complements the wider transformation taking place in Region Three, with major investments in housing, roads and other infrastructure aimed at supporting long-term development.
THE Commission of Inquiry (CoI) established to investigate the MV Barima tragedy has been given sweeping powers to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident, identify those responsible for any failures and recommend wide-ranging reforms to Guyana’s maritime sector.
According to the Terms of Reference (ToRs) published in the Official Gazette on Monday, the Commission has been directed to conduct “a comprehensive, independent and impartial public inquiry” into the July 18 tragedy and submit findings and recommendations aimed
sel’s capsizing and sinking.
It is also required to examine whether the vessel was seaworthy, whether it complied with maritime safety standards, whether passenger and cargo limits were exceeded and whether loading, stability or mechanical failures played a role in the disaster.
The inquiry will also scrutinise the actions of the captain and crew, including whether they possessed the required qualifications and training, complied with established safety procedures and ensured adequate life-saving equipment was available for passengers and crew.
Another major focus will
at preventing similar disasters in the future.
The five-member Commission is chaired by former Belizean Justice of Appeal Justice Godfrey Phillip Smith and comprises Jamaican maritime surveyor Captain Hamada Fouda; Trinidad and Tobago attorney Nyree Dawn Alfonso; Polish naval architect and marine engineer Dr. Andrzej Jasionowski; and retired Trinidad and Tobago Rear Admiral Hayden Pritchard.
Attorney-at-law Javed Khomeini Shadick has been appointed Secretary to the Commission. He will be responsible for maintaining its records, summoning witnesses, preserving evidence and performing any other duties assigned by the Commissioners.
Among the Commission’s principal tasks is determining “the immediate, direct and indirect causes and contributing factors” that led to the ves-
tragedy.
Importantly, the Commission has been empowered to identify “any act, omission, negligence, misconduct, dereliction of duty, breach of statutory obligation or abuse of authority” that may have contributed to the disaster.
Where supported by the evidence, it may recommend disciplinary or administrative sanctions and refer matters to the appropriate authorities for criminal or civil investigation. However, the Terms of Reference make clear that the Commission itself will not determine criminal guilt or civil liability.
To carry out its work, the Commission may sum -
be the emergency response.
The Commissioners have been instructed to evaluate “the adequacy, timeliness, coordination and effectiveness” of the search, rescue and recovery operations conducted by the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard, Maritime Administration Department, Transport and Harbours Department, Guyana Police Force, health authorities and other responding agencies.
The Terms of Reference also require a far-reaching review of the Transport and Harbours Department’s management systems, including vessel inspections, maintenance schedules, operational procedures, staffing, supervision, safety management, training programmes and regulatory oversight.
The Commissioners will also determine whether previous safety recommendations were ignored and whether any failures within the department contributed to the
report to President Dr. Irfaan Ali within two months unless an extension is granted.
mon witnesses, compel the production of documents, inspect the wreck, obtain electronic communications and navigation records, commission technical examinations and seek assistance from independent experts. It is also authorised to issue interim reports if it identifies urgent safety concerns requiring immediate attention.
The Commissioners are expected to submit their final
The report is expected to include recommendations to strengthen maritime legislation, improve vessel inspections and certification, enhance emergency preparedness and search-andrescue capabilities, reinforce regulatory oversight and improve the governance of the Transport and Harbours Department.
The CoI was established following the sinking of the MV Barima on the night of July 18, 2026, approximately 10 nautical miles off the
Essequibo coast while en route from Georgetown to Port Kaituma in Region One (Barima-Waini). Authorities later determined that an estimated 179 people, including crew members, were aboard the vessel, significantly more than the 133 persons listed on the manifest.
The tragedy claimed the lives of 73 people, while 76 persons were rescued. Thirty people remain missing, making it the deadliest maritime disaster in Guyana’s history.
Meanwhile, the criminal investigation into the disaster is proceeding alongside the CoI. Captain Kevin Price,
Chief Mate Rondell Dwayne Roberts and Cargo Superintendent Delon Granderson have each been charged with murder in connection with the sinking of the MV Barima. The three were further remanded to prison on Monday after appearing before Magistrate Ravindra Mohabir at the Charity Magistrate’s Court. Their next court date is September 7. Following the disaster, Prime Minister, retired Brigadier Mark Phillips, disclosed that two crew members, including the captain, tested positive for marijuana.
- region records 153,000 new HIV infections and 32,800 AIDS-related deaths in 2025
LATIN America and the Caribbean recorded an estimated 153,000 new HIV infections and 32,800 AIDS-related deaths in 2025, as declining international funding and cuts to prevention and community-led services threaten to reverse gains made in the regional response, a new UNAIDS report has warned.
The report, presented during the 26th International AIDS Conference in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from July 27 to 31, highlighted sharply contrasting trends across the two regions, with the Caribbean recording significant declines in new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths, while infections continued to rise in Latin America.
According to UNAIDS, the number of people acquiring HIV in the Caribbean fell by 30 per cent between 2010 and 2025, while AIDS-related deaths declined by 65 per cent over the same period.
Seven Caribbean countries recorded reductions in new HIV infections.
In Latin America, however, new HIV infections increased by 25 per cent between 2010 and 2025, placing the wider region off track to meet key HIV targets.
“Given the current funding realities, governments must move with alacrity to
The report, presented during the 26th International AIDS Conference in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, recently highlighted sharply contrasting trends across the two regions, with the Caribbean recording significant declines in new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths, while infections continued to rise in Latin America
translate political commitments to increase domestic funding for HIV-prevention programmes and community-led initiatives that can help in reducing the number of new infections,” said Luisa Cabal, UNAIDS Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean.
“The progress in reducing AIDS-related deaths and eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, in several countries, show us what is possible in the Caribbean when political commitment turns into action,” she added.
The report found that new HIV infections in the Caribbean declined by 31 per cent among men and 28 per cent among women since 2010. Among young people aged 15 to 24, infections fell
by 38 per cent among young men and 39 per cent among young women.
Despite those gains, UNAIDS said the pace of progress remains too slow for the Caribbean to achieve regional targets.
In Latin America, three out of every four new HIV infections occur among men. Among young people, new infections declined by 12 per cent among young women but increased by 16 per cent among young men.
The report also identified disparities in AIDS-related deaths. Between 2010 and 2025, deaths declined by 46 per cent among men compared with 23 per cent among women. UNAIDS said the trends underscore the need to accelerate combination
licences that would enable greater access for the people who need them,” Cabal said.
“This is simply an injustice, and it is unacceptable.”
The report noted that international funding for HIV fell by more than US$1.5 billion, declining from US$8.8 billion in 2024 to US$7.3 billion in 2025 — an 18 per cent reduction and the lowest level recorded in nearly two decades.
ing HIV-related stigma and discrimination,” Cabal said.
In June 2026, Caribbean countries were among 149 United Nations member states that adopted the Global AIDS Strategy 2026–2031 and endorsed a Political Declaration on HIV and AIDS outlining a roadmap towards ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
HIV-prevention efforts, expand access to prevention options such as pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP, strengthen early diagnosis, improve links to care and ensure sustained access to antiretroviral treatment for men, women and young people.
Cabal also raised concerns about unequal access to new HIV-prevention technologies, noting that many countries in the region have been excluded from voluntary licensing arrangements that could allow wider access to essential prevention tools.
“Despite the innovations announced as essential prevention tools to accelerate the response, most countries in the region have been excluded from the voluntary
HEART
The decline followed a 23 per cent reduction in official development assistance globally, raising concerns for countries in Latin America and the Caribbean that are transitioning away from external donor support.
UNAIDS said governments must ensure that the transition to greater domestic financing is effective and remains centred on the needs of people living with and affected by HIV.
“With the disruptions to the global health architecture, it is important to focus the HIV response on five key actions to translate political commitment into concrete measures: domestic funding to sustain the response, equitable access to prevention innovations, supporting community leadership, closing treatment gaps, including addressing the high rates of advanced HIV, and combat-
The declaration includes targets to place 40 million people on HIV treatment and provide 20 million people with access to antiretroviral-based prevention by 2030.
It also seeks to reduce stigma and discrimination, gender inequality and violence, and punitive legal and policy environments that restrict access to HIV services to fewer than 10 per cent.
UNAIDS estimates that fully implementing the commitments could prevent an additional 3.2 million new HIV infections and 1.3 million AIDS-related deaths by 2030.
The report said renewed political commitment, increased domestic investment and stronger support for prevention, treatment and community-led programmes will be critical if Latin America and the Caribbean are to meet the ambitious targets set out in the Political Declaration.
Initiative expresses gratitude to GAW, GSL for $25M donation
THE HEART Initiative has extended its thanks to the Guyana Amazon Warriors franchise, owner Dr Ranjisinghi “Bobby” Ramroop, and the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League for a $25 million donation toward relief efforts for those affected by last month’s MV Barima tragedy.
The cheque was presented by Global Super League Chairman Sir Clive Lloyd to HEART Initiative representatives, Shaikh Moeenul Hack, Rev Dr Kwame Gilbert, Lt Col Dominic Shepherd, Misha Goodchild, and Pandit Roopnarine Persaud, moments before the toss of the League’s final between the Guyana Amazon Warriors and the San Francisco
Unicorns at Providence, East Bank Demerara, on Saturday. Guyana Amazon Warriors captain Imran Tahir, along with Warriors Women players Latoya Williams and Tilleya Madramootoo, witnessed the presentation pitch
described as the deadliest of its kind in Guyana’s history, saw 73 deaths recorded so far and 76 people rescued, with 30 still unaccounted for out of an estimated 179 passengers and crew.
side. The donation fulfils a commitment the franchise made days before the final, pledging the match’s proceeds to support victims of the sinking of the MV Barima, which capsized on July 18 en route from Georgetown to Port Kaituma. The disaster,
HEART, an acronym for Hope, Empathy, Aid, Resilience, and Trust, said the funds will go toward financial support for affected families and survivors, psychosocial and trauma counselling, social services, and spiritual and community support.
THE Consulate General of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana in New York commemorated Emancipation Day at Medgar Evers College, bringing together diplomats, community leaders, families, and members of the Guyanese diaspora to celebrate the nation’s rich heritage and the enduring legacy of emancipation.
tragedy, as attendees united in reflection and prayer for the victims and their families.
The programme opened with a solemn moment of silence in memory of the lives lost in the recent MV Barima
The evening featured inspiring addresses from Ambassador Michael Brotherson, Consul General of Guyana in New York; H.E. Ambassador
Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Permanent Representative of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana to the United Nations; and Mr. Fazal Yussuff, Adviser on Investment and Diaspora Affairs.
Each speaker reflected on the significance of emancipation while encouraging continued unity service, and investment in Guyana’s future. A standout moment of the programme was the Youth Reflection delivered by 16-year-old Brandon Willabus, whose thoughtful remarks earned heartfelt applause from the audience. Speaking on the importance of resilience and collective strength, he reminded those in attendance:
“Emancipation teaches us that no obstacle is too great when people stand in solidarity against injustice.
The same resilience that carried our ancestors through history’s darkest moments over 200 years ago should inspire us to face today’s challenges with courage.”
His message underscored the vital role young people play in preserving Guyana’s history, while helping to
shape its future. The observance also celebrated the richness of Guyanese culture through traditional African drumming, libation, and captivating cultural dance performances that honoured the customs and sacrifices of the nation’s ancestors.
As the evening came to a close, attendees departed with a renewed appreciation for the sacrifices that secured freedom and a strengthened commitment
to carrying forward the values of unity, resilience and cultural pride.
The annual observance served as a powerful reminder that the story of emancipation is not only a chapter in history but a living legacy that continues to inspire generations of Guyanese at home and throughout the diaspora.
GUYANA Power and Light Inc. (GPL) engaged residents of Tuschen during a public consultation on the Government’s Model Village Initiative, providing updates on electricity services and discussing measures aimed at improving the reliability and resilience of power supply in the community.
The engagement formed part of a wider consultation held on Monday, during which residents were invited to share their concerns and contribute to discussions on the future development of Tuschen.
GPL’s participation was led by Mr Kesh Nandlall, Team Lead of the company’s Executive Management Committee, who met with customers, listened to con-
cerns and discussed possible solutions to improve electricity services across the community. President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali addressed the consultation and outlined the Government’s vision for the Model Village Initiative, while encouraging residents to play an active role in shaping the community’s future development.
Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar also delivered a presentation on the initiative, highlighting its objectives and the potential transformative benefits expected for Tuschen.
The Model Village Initiative is intended to support integrated community development by strengthening infrastructure, improving access to essential services
and creating opportunities for residents.
GPL said it remains committed to working closely with residents, community representatives and other stakeholders to ensure that reliable and resilient electricity infrastructure supports development and meets the growing needs of communities. The power company thanked residents who participated in the consultation, noting that continued public engagement is important to building stronger partnerships and improving service delivery.
GPL said it will continue collaborating with communities and stakeholders as it works to enhance electricity services and support Guyana’s ongoing economic and social development.
From page 9
supported by a multidisciplinary team comprising radiologists, radiographers, ultrasound technologists, nurses and other support personnel.
The team works closely with clinical departments throughout the hospital, including the Accident and Emergency Department, Intensive Care Unit, operating theatres, oncology, neurology and obstetrics services.
According to GPHC, medical imaging plays a central role in supporting timely diagnosis and informed clinical decision-making,
with imaging results helping healthcare providers determine appropriate treatment and improve patient outcomes.
The hospital is now moving to further strengthen its diagnostic infrastructure through the construction of a dedicated Medical Imaging Centre.
The facility is expected to provide a modern space for advanced imaging services, including CT scanning and MRI technology, and is intended to improve patient access, operational efficiency and the overall healthcare
experience.
GPHC is also preparing to implement an Electronic Health Record system, which is expected to improve access to patient information, reduce delays and strengthen communication among healthcare providers and departments.
The hospital said the combined investments in modern infrastructure, advanced technology and digital health systems are expected to support more coordinated, efficient and patient-centred care as Guyana’s healthcare sector continues to expand.
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC) – Jamaican outfit Mount Pleasant FA edged Delfines del Este of the Dominican Republic 1-0 on Sunday to capture the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Club Shield title at the Ato Boldon Stadium here on Sunday.
Shaquille Bradford scored the lone goal in the
51st minute as Mount Pleasant secured its first-ever CFU Club Shield crown, becoming only the second Jamaican club to win the competition, following Arnett Gardens’ success in 2024.
It capped an outstanding tournament which saw them concede just one goal throughout the competition.
With the win, Mount Pleasant also booked a place in Group B of the 2026 Concacaf Caribbean Cup, where they will join fellow Jamaican clubs Portmore United and Cavalier, along with Dominican Republic representatives Cibao FC and Salcedo FC.
Mount Pleasant’s Sporting Director Paul Chris -
confidence. He spent the last hour of the day rotating the strike and depriving West Indies of any openings, de-
ENGLISH RACING TIPS CATTERICK
09:15 hrs Palace Legacy
09:45 hrs Wait For It
10:15 hrs Zephlyn
10:45 hrs Captain Cess
11:15 hrs Halmede
11:45 hrs DoraleeFFOS LAS
09:30 hrs The Feminine Urge
10:00 hrs Avonics
10:30 hrs Bird Of War
11:00 hrs March Of Time
11:30 hrs Flagbearer
12:00 hrs Mythological Star
12:30 hrs Jimmy Mark
LINGFIELD
12:18 hrs Sub Thirteen
12:48 hrs Langdale Lass
13:18 hrs Minnal
13:48 hrs Elvetham
14:18 hrs Tabasko
14:48 hrs Koko Blue
15:18 hrs Offiah's Boy
IRISH RACING TIPS ROSCOMMON
12:25 hrs Minella Moonshine
13:00 hrs Clay Pigeons
13:30 hrs Sound Judgement
14:00 hrs Hashtag Pretender
14:30 hrs Another Challenge
15:00 hrs Il Silenzio
15:30 hrs She Means Business
AMERICAN RACING TIPS
FINGER LAKES
Race 1 Mandalorian
Race 2 Evanderkeen
Race 3 Soho Nights
Race 4 Doc Advantage
Race 5 Bustinroxy
Race 6 Khali's Dream
Race 7 Valentinian
Race 8 Nurse Bunny
termined to see the day out with no further losses.
Things had appeared much brighter for West Indies in the morning. Pakistan eventually went through the bottom half of West Indies’ line-up, but not before half-centuries from Justin Greaves and Roston Chase helped their side add 105 runs to their overnight score.
Mohammad Ali started errantly and Roston Chase punished him with a pair of boundaries in the second over. But when Babar took the new ball and handed it to left arm spinner Ali Usman, he struck with his first ball as Greaves leading edge found Awais Zafar at short third. Kemar Roach battled as Chase continued to chip away in a continuing trend where every partnership in the innings bar one ended up reaching double figures.
Ubaid Shah, who had been held back with the new ball, struck with his first delivery off the day, a lovely cross-seam ball that flicked the top of Chase’s middle stump off the pad. For once, Shamar Joseph’s adventurism did not amount to much as Sajid Khan cleaned him up, but Pakistan continued to sustain damage on their way to inevitably polishing West Indies off.
Pakistan were determined to set the tone early on with the bat. In the absence of Shan Masood,
(From back page)
Pakistan’s approach up top wasn’t clear, but Awais put any doubts to rest when he guided the innings’ second ball to fine leg for four off Kemar Roach. In Roach’s second over, the veteran West Indies seamer was hit out of the attack with three successive boundaries, forcing Roston Chase into the introduction of Warrican after four overs. However, it was the fast bowling change at the other end that drew first blood for the hosts. Shamar Joseph was cut away by Imam-ulHaq first ball, but drew his length back and upped the
tie hailed the achievement, praising the club’s ownership, coaching staff, and players for their commitment throughout the campaign.
“It is just a feeling that you can’t tired of, and so I just want to salute the ownership of Peter Goule and his wife, and the technical team led by Theodore Whitmore and Davion Ferguson,
and also our captain Daniel Green and the rest of the staff for their hard work and dedication.
“We came here and we adapted to the conditions and we did what we had to do. And, in return, we are now the Caribbean Shield champions, and so it is definitely a good feeling,” Christie said.
pace to cramp Imam on the back foot and hit the splice of his bat as he recoiled. It flew up to gully and sent the opener on his way It did not dull Pakistan’s spark, though. Joseph bowled the quickest deliveries of the series a couple of overs later, including getting one up to a shade under 150, but Awais did not back down, dispatching him for four boundaries, and out of the attack. Abdullah Shafique, meanwhile, took on Warrican’s spin, picking him up over extra cover for a classy pair of sixes, and sweeping him when he went too straight.
That sweep shot, though, got Awais in trouble when he failed to get out of the line of the stumps on one occasion. West Indies reviewed, and Hawkeye showed it slamming into leg stump, giving the hosts a breakthrough they desperately required.
But Pakistan stuck to their gameplan in the half hour remaining before tea, with Babar particularly proactive at taking pace on. It was a harbinger of what was to come in one of the best batting sessions Pakistan have enjoyed in years. (Cricinfo)
WEST INDIES 1st innings (overnight 239 for five)
Tagenarine Chanderpaul c Khan b Ali 15
Brandon King lbw b Usman 46
Kavem Hodge c +Rizwan b Khan 10
Amir Jangoo c +Rizwan b Shah 26
+Shai Hope b Ali 29
Justin Greaves c Zafar b Usman 73
*Roston Chase b Shah 70
Kemar Roach lbw b Khan 19
Shamar Joseph c&b Khan 8
Jomel Warrican not out 5
Jayden Seales c Azam b Khan 8
Extras (b12, lb21, w2) 35
TOTAL (all out; 105.4 overs) 344
Fall of wickets: 1-49, 2-65, 3-91, 4-120, 5-173, 6-269, 7-304, 8-323, 9-326, 10-344.
Bowling: Ali 22-6-67-2, Shah 14-1-66-2, Usman 35-9-80-2, Khan 32.4-4-85-4, Agha 2-0-13-0.
PAKISTAN 1st innings
Azan Awais lbw b Warrican 55 Imam-ul-Haq c Warrican b Joseph 14
Abdullah Shafique not out 107
*Babar Azam not out 86
Extras (lb1, nb3) 4
TOTAL (two wickets; 66 overs) 266
Yet to bat: Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha, Awais Zafar, Ali Usman, Sajid Khan, Ubaid Shah, Mohammad Ali. Fall of wickets: 1-34, 2-98.
Bowling: Roach 6-0-34-0, Seales 9-0-350, Warrican 24-1-75-1, Joseph 10-0-58-1, Chase 7-0-22-0, Hodge 10-0-41-0.
Position: Pakistan trail West Indies by 78 runs with eight wickets remaining.
EMMA Raducanu will miss the US Open as she continues her recovery from a stress fracture.
The British number one suffered the injury to her right lower leg during the grass-court season and made a late decision to pull out of Wimbledon.
The 2021 US Open champion will now sit out this year’s event at Flushing Meadows, which begins on 23 August.
The decision was made after the 23-year-old’s latest consultations with her medical team. She had only recently stepped back on court wearing a protective boot.
Last summer Raducanu won her first matches at the US Open since she became a surprise champion but the past 12 months have been frustrating because of more persistent physical issues.
A foot injury severely hampered her pre-season training before she spent two and a half months off
court with a post-viral illness after initially falling unwell in early February. She returned for the end of the clay-court season having rehired Andrew Richardson, the coach who guided her to the US Open title, but the pair’s time on court together has been limited.
Raducanu enjoyed one of the best weeks of her career by reaching her biggest final since New York at Queen’s Club in June, but she has not played since.
THE nation’s pugilists, Terron Wintz, Desmond Amsterdam, and Colin Lewis, have advanced into the quarter-finals of the ongoing Central America and Caribbean Games on Sunday in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
Guyana’s top middleweight boxer Desmond Amsterdam again produced a fine display in the squared circle to knock-out Dominica’s Daniel Shillingford in round two of their clash, he was leading on all the judges score sheets 10-9, 80 kg bout.
At 20hrs 30 this eve -
ning (Tuesday), he will contest his quarter-final clash against Venezuela’s Deigo Pereyra, looking to continue in the same vein.
Amsterdam is the country’s lone medalist at the Americas Boxing Confederation Champions Elite Championship.
Terron Wintz, fighting in the round of 16, dominated Kyghan Mortley in the Men’s 70 kg division, earning a unanimous points decision.
He won comfortably on all the judges; scores, carding 30-27 to move one round away from medal contention.
pect of leading LSG next year. “They can decide whatever they think is best. There’s some quality leaders in that group that we have there, so I’m not too fussed about it. Whoever gets it I’m sure will take it on and do a good job, but the thoughts haven’t been there just yet.”
Mitchell Marsh, Australia’s T20 captain, is the other obvious leadership candidate from LSG’s 2026 squad, while Nicholas Pooran has also captained West Indies previously. LSG could alternatively look to recruit a new captain at the IPL mini-auction, though options may be thin on the ground.
Markram was speaking after leading Manchester Super Giants (MSG) at The Oval on Sunday night, and
said that he was enjoying the chance to captain in the 100-ball format. “It comes with its challenges, but it’s been awesome,” he said.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it. It obviously helps a lot to have guys like Jos [Buttler] around. He’s helped me quite a bit.
“It’s obviously much quicker, and still the idea of 10 balls from one side [is a challenge]. You sometimes think you’ve snuck five in, and you remember there’s still another five to the short side, or whatever it might be. But good fun, great comp, great standard as well, so I’m thoroughly enjoying it.”
Markram had made 67 runs in his first four innings of the Hundred but found some form with a quick 50 on Sunday night, albeit in
AUQIB Nabi, the Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler, has earned his maiden India call-up after being named as Jasprit Bumrah’s replacement for the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka. Bumrah was ruled out after failing to recover fully from the left knee injury he sustained during the ODI series against England.
He will next come up against Puerto Rico’s Angelllanos in the quarter-final this evening (Tuesday) at the combat pavilion.
Colin Lewis also took a unanimous points decision to win over Barbados; Peter Murray in the men’s 65 kg category.
One judge scored the contest 29-28, with the other four judges seeing it heavily in Lewis’ favour, 30-27.
Lewis will this evening come up against Domelzo Schet of Suriname at 20hrs seeking to get into the semi-final, which would grant him a bronze medal.
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a heavy defeat. MSG have now lost three games in a row after starting the season with back-to-back wins, and will likely need to win their final three to reach the knockout stages.
“I’ve struggled, but tonight was a bit better,” he said. “The wicket was obviously good, and when you come across a good wicket and you’re maybe struggling for runs, you get a bit excited, so I was quite keen for tonight.
“[It was] a pity to get out in the moment that I did. It felt like an evening where you could get a really big one for the side and I was quite disappointed to get out when I did, but nice to find a little bit of rhythm and flow and hopefully I can run with that now.” (Cricinfo)
The 29-year-old Nabi has forced his way into the senior side on the back of two outstanding Ranji Trophy seasons, claiming 104 wickets, including 60 in the 2025-26 campaign when he played a key role in Jammu and Kashmir lifting their maiden Ranji Trophy title. Nabi’s performances also earned him a place in the India A squad for the recent tour of Sri Lanka. The rightarm seamer picked up six wickets in the two four-day matches against Sri Lanka A, including figures of 4 for 58 in the first innings of the opening game.
Bumrah, meanwhile, continues to be sidelined after the injury he suffered during
the second ODI against England last month. The premier fast bowler had been included in India’s squad for the Sri Lanka series subject to clearing a fitness assessment at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, but he has not recovered in time.
The latest setback further delays Bumrah’s return to Test cricket after his workload had already been carefully managed following the back injury he suffered during the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia.
He featured in only three of the five Tests in England
last year before being rested for the one-off Test against Afghanistan in June. India’s squad for the Sri Lanka series is led by Shubman Gill, with KL Rahul serving as vice-captain. Sai Sudharsan remains part of the squad, subject to fitness clearance.
Updated India squad: Shubman Gill (c), KL Rahul (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sai Sudharsan*, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Devdutt Padikkal, Saransh Jain, Auqib Nabi.
Akhilesh Reddy receives eight-year ban for breach of anti-corruption code
USA cricketer Bodugum
Akhilesh Reddy has been banned from all cricket for eight years after an ICC anti-corruption tribunal found him guilty of three breaches of the ICC anti-corruption code. The suspension has been backdated to November 21, 2025, the date on which he was provisionally suspended, and will run until November 2033.
The charges stem from the 2025 edition of the Abu Dhabi T10, where the ICC acted as the Designated Anti-Corruption Official (DACO) on behalf of the Emirates Cricket Board.
Akhilesh was found guilty of breaching Article 2.1.1 of the Code, which relates to attempting to fix, contrive or otherwise improperly influence the result, progress, conduct or any other aspect of matches. He was also found guilty under Article 2.1.4 for soliciting, inducing, enticing, instructing, persuading, encouraging or intentionally
facilitating another participant to breach Article 2.1.1.
In addition, the tribunal found him guilty of violating Article 2.4.7 after determining that he obstructed the investigation by deleting data and messages from his mobile device that could have been relevant to the inquiry.
Akilesh represented the USA in four T20Is, all of
which came in April 2025. He is the second USA international to fall foul of the anti-corruption code this year. Earlier, batter Aaron Jones was sanctioned and provisionally suspended for five breaches of the ICC Code of Conduct during his participation in Barbados' Bim10 tournament in the 2023-24 season. (Cricbuzz)
Opponents of Fifa president Gianni Infantino are threatening “non-co-operation” with the governing body unless he steps down, according to senior Uefa sources.
Some of those involved in the rebellion vow “there is no going back” for as long as Infantino remains in position, as the fallout over his scrapped plans to sell off stakes in Fifa competitions to private investors intensifies.
While the details of the proposed disruption remain unclear, one senior figure said they would “certainly expect” a refusal to participate in Fifa meetings.
It comes after European football’s governing body Uefa threatened legal action over the proposals, and Wales publicly withdrew
backing for Infantino’s bid for a fourth term as Fifa president, with England’s Football Association set to follow suit.
In March, Infantino is set to stand for re-election for a final term as president and would need 106 votes from Fifa’s 211 members to win.
Sources have told BBC Sport the Scottish FA’s position on the future of Infantino remains aligned with Uefa’s lack of confidence in the 56-year-old. Infantino’s leadership had already been publicly questioned by football’s governing bodies in Europe, North and Central America and the Caribbean, with Uefa and Concacaf releasing statements criticising the plans.
As the pressure grows on Infantino with Serbia,
Sweden and Finland also withdrawing their support, Morocco, Qatar, Lebanon, Kuwait and Sri Lanka among the countries to have pledged their support for his Fifa leadership to continue.
Uefa has 55 votes, Afri-
WELSH Fire condemned Southern Brave to their first defeat of this season’s Hundred as they earned a dramatic four-wicket victory in Cardiff.
Having won their first five matches of the women’s competition, Brave took their sixth outing down to the final ball while defending 121-5 but Heather Graham struck the winning runs for Fire, finishing unbeaten on 35.
(Scores: Southern Brave 121-5 (100 balls): Wolvaardt 48 (45); Potts 2-14
Welsh Fire 122-6 (100 balls): Graham 35* (28); Corteen-Coleman 3-27)
Tilly Corteen-Coleman had taken three key top-or-
der wickets to put the home side on the back foot early in their chase at Sophia Gardens.
The 18-year-old Brave left-arm spinner removed Fire openers Georgia Voll and Ella McCaughan in the same set before also dismissing Freya Kemp to record figures of 3-27.
Georgia Wareham, captaining Fire after Sophie Devine was ruled out for the remainder of the tournament through injury, fell for 16 to Lauren Bell’s slower ball, leaving the hosts 70-5 and in trouble.
But Graham, who also shone with the ball with two wickets, was aided by rapid knocks from Grace Thomp-
"Working together with US Soccer over the past two years, it has become clear to us that there is tremendous potential to make the men's national team programme even stronger," said Pochettino.
son and Niamh Holland and held her nerve to take Fire to their second win of the campaign.
Earlier, Brave had become the first team to win the toss and choose to bat in the women’s competition this season, but lost Lizelle Lee and Maia Bouchier very early.
A 49-run third-wicket stand between Jemimah Rodrigues and Laura Wolvaardt helped steady the innings before Rodrigues departed for 25 from 21 balls.
Wolvaardt, however, stayed on before falling to Graham only two runs short of a half-century as Brave posted a total that fell just short.
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"We are excited by the opportunity to bring all our experience and knowledge to even more areas of US Soccer while helping strengthen the pathways for players, coaches and teams across the federation.
"We want to try to have a lasting impact on the sport in the country that has welcomed us so warmly and for that impact to extend beyond results on the field." (BBC Sport)
ca 54, Asia 46, Concacaf 35, Oceania 11 and Conmebol 10.
The Asian Football Federation (AFC) has said it stands in “solidarity” with Uefa and Concacaf, while Africa, Conmebol and Oce-
ania have not criticised Infantino’s plan.
However, the Fifa Council could try to force Infantino to resign through an emergency meeting.
That would be triggered if 19 of the 37 Fifa Council members call for one and the meeting must take place within two weeks.
Uefa has nine members, AFC has seven, Concacaf five, Africa has six, Conmebol five and Oceania three. It is completed by Infantino and secretary general Mattias Grafstrom.
Fifa and Infantino wanted to create a commercial subsidiary to run its main events, including its World Cups, and external investors would have been able to buy stakes in it.
World football’s governing body said it would
“invite third parties to make minority, non-controlling investments” in a new subsidiary called Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE).
As first reported by The Telegraph, Uefa said in a letter to Infantino “it is actively considering legal action, arbitration, and/or regulatory complaints (together, the ‘proceedings’) arising out of and in connection with the FFE plan proposed by Fifa”.
Uefa added it wants “immediate steps” to “preserve all documents and electronically stored information” in Fifa’s possession “independent” of their internal policies that may result in “routine document destruction or deletion”.
BBC Sport has approached Fifa for comment. (BBC Sport)
SERENA and Venus Williams have been given a wildcard entry for the women’s doubles at the Cincinnati Open.
The sisters were scheduled to play together at Wimbledon in July until Serena, 44, picked up a knee injury in her singles comeback loss to Australia’s Maya Joint.
The WTA 1000 event which runs from 11-23 Au-
gust in Ohio will be the first time the siblings have played doubles together since the 2022 US Open. It could also pave the way for Serena to return to play in the US Open this year. Her third-round loss at New York’s Flushing Meadows four years ago had been her last appearance at a Grand Slam until she featured at the All England
Club this summer. She is currently one short of the all-time record of 24 Grand Slam singles titles, jointly held by Margaret Court and Novak Djokovic. Together, Venus and Serena have won 14 major titles and three Olympic gold medals in doubles. Venus, 46, has also received a wildcard into the singles draw of the tournament in Cincinnati.
and Lucky came in hot to pull off an upset over
Veteran jockey Colin Ross was on the saddle of Hot and Lucky as he piloted the underdog horse from Nathan Racing Stables to a maiden victory in Guyana.
In the absence of Js Racing Stables, Slingerz Racing Stables, Master Z and Jumbo Jet Racing Stables; Jagdeo Racing Stables was set to dominate the Emancipation Cup Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club, but it was Jockey Ross and trainer Deonarine Ramroop who pulled off a major upset.
Ross came with a ‘Stat-looking’ ploy, and he
took the early start with Hot and Lucky, setting the pace in the one-mile race. Hot and Lucky stopped the clock in one minute and 40 seconds; favorite horse Front Line Warrior got into fifth gear a bit late as Gryphon ran second. Front Line Warrior had to settle for third while Stormy Victory finished fourth.
This is Hot and Lucky’s second race in Guyana, after a third place in May. Hot and Lucky is owned by a special need teenager who was at center stage of an emotional win on Sunday afternoon.
Under glorious sunshine, the opening race got off to a flyer with the L Class race.
Lion Heart stormed to victory finishing ahead of Doctor J, who ran second, while Perfect Trip and Sakar were the other top four finishers in that order.
In the nursery stakes, two-year-old Guyana bred maidens, Jano Star outshined the opponents with jockey Yovin Kissoonchand leading the charge. Chelsea ran closely for second while Princess Alesha finished third and Just in Time ran fourth.
Mauricio Pochettino has agreed a deal to continue as the manager of the United States men's team until 2030.
The former Tottenham and Chelsea boss, who has been in the post since September 2024, led cohosts US to the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup before they were beaten by Belgium.
US Soccer said, external the new agreement included the role of Pochettino and his coaching staff having a greater remit - in which they would also "advise and support US Soccer on the broader development of the full national team pathway, youth soccer, coaching education, profes -
Mauricio
sional league collaboration and other technical facets".
The third race was the Emancipation Sophomore stakes two-year-old Guyana bred maidens. Boss Lady enjoyed a sweet victory, by ten lengths while Ocean Star ran in second spot. High Beam claimed third and Lady Cash finished fourth.
In the Emancipation mile stakes three-year-old Guyana bred maidens and of one race, Miracle Boy ran with bravery to finish in pole position while Glory Queen ran in second. Risen Star and Black Beauty finished in third and fourth respectively.
Jockey Arvin Dhanraj and
Yovin Kissoonchand were unseated from their horses. Jagdeo Racing Stables took the top spots in race five. Theory of Colors took the lead from the inside to emerged as the victor in the H Class and Lower while stablemate Sydney ran comfortable for second. She WBO on Time ran third and Mufasa finished in fourth. New-comer Turmalina Negra out of Brazil had withdrawn from the Emanciption Classic Stakes W Class Non-winner Open to F and G Class horses. The day got even better for Jagdeo
Racing Stables as Oy Vey displayed pure dominance to clinch victory. Converter ran second while Qurbaan’s Kingdom came in third.
A host of the big horses were in rest mode ahead of the Guyana Cup which is slated for August 23 at Rising Sun Turf Club.
More than G$66 million in cash and prizes will up for the taking at the 18th running of the Guyana Cup. The top stables are expected to feature new horses for the most lucrative event in the history of Guyana’s horse racing.
AIDEN Markram is the obvious choice to lead Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in next year’s IPL, but said on Sunday night that there are other “quality leaders” who could take on the captaincy.
Rishabh Pant stepped down as LSG’s captain in May after they finished bottom of the points table, and has since been traded to Delhi Capitals in exchange for Kuldeep Yadav. LSG are yet to announce his successor, but Markram is the standout option, given his experience as South Africa’s T20 captain and with the RPSG Group’s other franchises in the SA20 and the Hundred.
“I’ve got no idea,” Markram said, when asked by Cricinfo about the pros-
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West Indies were dismissed for 344 before Shafique and Babar closed day two 78 behind Pakistan’s batters finally came to life in this Test series, imposing their authority on this second Test. An unbeaten 168run partnership between Babar Azam and Abdullah Shafique saw Pakistan gallop to within 78 runs of West Indies’ first innings total of 344. They did so with a flair
and panache that belied the woes that have plagued them in this format of late.
Shafique brought up his sixth Test century, and a first since 2024, in the dying stages of play, while Babar closes in on his first in four years, 14 runs away overnight.
(Scores: tumps Pakistan 266 for 2 (Shafique 107*, Babar 86*) trail West Indies 344 all out (Greaves 73, Chase 70, Sajid 4-85) by 78 runs
The question, after West Indies had posted what appeared an above-par 344, was when, rather than if, Pakistan’s innings would implode under pressure. Even as Azan Awais’s bright half-century got them off to an enterprising start, Pakistan’s supporters have been burned too often to buy the idea that a solid start is a building block to something better. They instead continued
to believe there were furtive sticks of dynamite concealed in the foundations, and whatever Shafique and Babar tried to construct could also collapse in on itself.
But the pair shut out the outside noise, building upon confident beginnings before tea in a final session where West Indies were made to grind. After a watchful resumption, Shafique unfurled a pair of majestic drives off Roach to get to his half-cen-
tury, and neutralising Warrican’s spin while picking him off when he dropped it short.
It was, in the end, how he got to his hundred after the left-armer tried to strangle him down leg. He would wait all over stranded on 99 before his eyes lit up as the final delivery was dragged down, slapping it through midwicket before letting out a roar of relief.
For Babar Azam, what appeared most encourag -
ing was how unremarkable the innings seemed. When West Indies turned to Jayden Seales, his bete noire, early on, Babar dispatched him for three boundaries, sharp to put anything over or under-pitched away. He began to grow into the innings looking better as it progressed, without ever retreating to his shell, something he has tended to do in the last few years when short on
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