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No.1081931

PM Phillips to represent Guyana at regional energy meeting 10 PAGE

President Ali urges Caribbean tourism investors to plan for disasters before they strike 03 PAGE

Guyana receives Green Destinations Award 04 PAGE

President Dr Irfaan Ali Wednesday morning delivered the feature address at the opening of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation’s State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) at the Atlantic Suites Hotel in Kingston. Guyana was also awarded the Green Destinations Country Baseline Assessment Award, solidifying its compliance with the applicable criteria of the Green Destinations Standard, following a country baseline assessment conducted by the Good Travel Institute of Green Destinations International (OP photos)

President Ali urges greater link between WIN MPs attempt to hijack meeting for 18 Guyana expands local forensic investment, productivity as economy expands MV Barima survivors and bereaved families toxicology testing capacity 12 BK International awarded 08 Guyana, partners review contract to salvage MV Barima US$5M education plan 16 PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 8, 2026

President Ali urges Caribbean tourism investors to plan for disasters before they strike

PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali has called for disaster preparedness and business continuity provisions to be built into tourism investment agreements from the outset, warning that governments and businesses must be ready before a crisis hits. Addressing the opening ceremony of the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) 2026 on Wednesday, President Ali said contingency planning should form part of negotiations over tourism projects and should not be left until a natural disaster occurs. ‘An important part of positioning this asset is resilience. From the time a project

is conceptualised in our region today, we need to think about disaster preparedness, business continuity,’ he said. ‘In those negotiations, there must be a clause to deal with contingencies and situations that we face, [including] natural disasters,’ he said. Such provisions, he stressed, should take effect when a disaster occurs, rather than be negotiated under pressure afterwards. Dr Ali said resilience was not solely a government responsibility. Businesses, he said, should also prepare for disruptions by planning how they would continue operating and recover. He pointed to the COVID-19 pandemic as evidence of tourism’s ability to

President Dr. Irfaan Ali rebound, saying the industry what contingency plans were recovered more quickly than in place. The President called on many had expected. He also referred to a recent natural the Caribbean Tourism Orgadisaster in Jamaica, asking nization (CTO) to lead work

on regional mechanisms for disaster preparedness and business continuity. He also identified resilience financing, insurance and pre-arranged credit as areas requiring attention. The remarks formed part of a wider call for the Caribbean to rethink tourism investment. President Ali said projects should be designed with resilience in mind, alongside market needs and visitor experience. He also urged governments and investors to strengthen regional transport links and diversify supply chains. ‘I believe that it is at this point that we need to very clearly articulate that for tourism to succeed, compete, and stay alive in this

region, we have to scale up our thinking, scale up our infrastructure, scale up our commitment, and for people within the region, we need to scale up our approach,’ he said. Dr Ali’s proposed approach would require preparedness to be considered not only in public-sector planning, but also when private investment is arranged, so that businesses and communities are better positioned to respond to future disruptions. ‘Many people just think about disaster preparedness as a government responsibility in its narrow sense, but it is a business responsibility in its expanded sense,’ he said.

October 5 remembered as milestone in Guyana’s democratic journey OCTOBER 5, 1992, was remembered as a defining moment in Guyana’s political history as former President and former General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Donald Ramotar, and President of the Women’s Progressive Organisation (WPO), Indranie Chandarpal, reflected on the decades of political struggle that preceded the return to democratic rule. Speaking at a seminar hosted by the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre to examine the significance of the October 5 election, Ramotar said the date represented more than an electoral victory, describing it as the culmination of generations of struggle for political freedom and democratic governance. “I do not think that the significance of the date October 5th is yet appreciated for its significance and its importance,” Ramotar said. He credited generations of Guyanese with contributing to the political struggle and highlighted the role of former President Dr Cheddi Jagan in the movement that ultimately led to the restoration of democratic rule. Ramotar traced the roots of the struggle to the formation of the Political Affairs Committee and the subsequent establishment of the PPP, recalling the opposition faced by the organisation from the colonial authorities. He pointed to the PPP’s

Donald Ramotar, President and former General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party electoral victory in 1953 and the subsequent suspension of the Constitution and removal of the government after 133 days in office. He also recalled the imprisonment of members of the party’s leadership and the organisation’s efforts to build international solidarity as it continued its political activities. “One of the characteristics of the PPP was always international solidarity where we were giving support because we were already by 1953 known to be an internationalist party supporting the fight in the Congo, supporting the fight in Kenya, supporting the fight in other parts of the world,” Ramotar said. He said the political challenges extended beyond elections and included efforts to weaken the party’s organisation and its

support among workers and farmers. Chandarpal, meanwhile, offered a personal recollection of October 5, 1992, including the atmosphere at Freedom House as election results were received and the eventual swearing-in of Dr Jagan as President. She said the return to democratic government carried deep emotional significance for members of the political movement who had spent decades campaigning for free and fair elections. “But I would say the police did a good job on that day and prevented the people who wanted to riot to come any closer to State House,” Chandarpal recalled. She described the swearing-in ceremony as an emotional moment for those who had worked for years towards the restoration of

Indranie Chandarpal, President of the Women’s Progressive Organisation and former government minister (Elton John photos) democratic rule. “When you think of that day, that Monday afternoon, and you see the swearing-in, there was not a dry eye,” she said. Chandarpal said the events of October 5 could not be separated from the grassroots political work undertaken over decades, recalling how organisers travelled throughout the country to educate communities, hold meetings and mobilise support. “We had to educate the masses,” she said, describing house-to-house visits, street-corner and bottom-house meetings, public meetings and rallies. “We worked in the office from 8 to 4 and then from 4 to 9 or 10 we were in the fields. It was hard work. You were working for a pittance because this was not about yourself. This was

about the greater good. This was about the cause for the party and for the country,” she said. She also recalled difficulties encountered by political organisers seeking to reach hinterland communities, including restrictions requiring official permission to enter certain areas. Both speakers emphasised the importance of understanding the political and social circumstances that preceded the 1992 election. Chandarpal recalled restrictions on political activity, access to information and movement, as well as economic difficulties experienced by Guyanese during the period preceding the return to democratic rule. Ramotar placed the 1992 election within the wider history of Guyana’s independence movement, the political divisions that

emerged during the 1950s and the subsequent decades of political and electoral conflict. Chandarpal said Guyanese should reflect on the country’s history while recognising the changes achieved since 1992. “All of us, it is necessary to reflect on where we come from, but now we have to celebrate our achievement as a nation,” she said. Looking ahead, Chandarpal said the lessons of Guyana’s political history remained relevant as the country undergoes significant economic and social changes. She cautioned against measuring national development solely through economic indicators, arguing that broader progress requires collective effort and cooperation. “Having a GDP that is so high does not mean that your problems will be resolved. There will be problems, but we have to work together,” she said. “That is the key. We have to work together as one people to ensure that we can develop our country.” The seminar provided an opportunity to reflect on the experiences and struggles surrounding October 5, 1992, while highlighting the importance of preserving the lessons of Guyana’s political history as the country continues its development.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 8, 2026

Guyana receives Green Destinations Award

President Dr. Irfaan Ali receives Green Destinations Award from the Good Travel Institute (Sachin Persaud photo)

GUYANA has received the Green Destinations Country Baseline Assessment Award, recognising the country’s compliance with the criteria of the Green Destinations Standard and its ongoing efforts to strengthen sustainability across the tourism sector. The award was present-

ed on Wednesday by Dr D’Arcy Dornan, a Director at the Good Travel Institute, following a country baseline assessment conducted by the institute on behalf of Green Destinations International. Dr Dornan said Guyana’s rich biodiversity, rivers, savannas, wildlife, living cultures and

communities provide the country with a distinctive foundation for sustainable, nature-based tourism. He noted that Guyana’s tourism industry is expanding rapidly, making sustainability increasingly important as the sector develops. “Sustainability,” Dr Dornan said, is no longer simply about “doing the right thing”, but is increasingly linked to business performance through reduced costs, greater efficiency, compliance with emerging legislation, lower risk and stronger com-

Dr. D’Arcy Dornan presents the Green Destinations Award to Minister of Tourism Industry and Commerce Susan Rodrigues, alongside the Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority, Kamrul Baksh

petitiveness. He added that sustainable tourism practices can also help Guyana attract visitors aligned with its tourism offerings while providing credible evidence to investors and financial institutions. According to Dr Dornan, the Good Travel Institute has been working with the Guyana Tourism Authority, public and private-sector stakeholders, communities, businesses, non-governmental organisations and tourism experience providers for several years to strengthen

sustainability practices. That work, he said, includes verifying sustainability claims, creating recognition and certification opportunities, and developing key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure progress. He said the coun try-level assessment is now evolving to include broader evaluations of destination performance and management, while continuing to use KPIs to identify priorities and support tourism development plans. Dr Dornan said the focus should extend beyond simply increasing visitor numbers to determining the type of tourism Guyana wants to develop and the value it creates for citizens,

businesses, communities and the environment. “The question is not simply how many visitors the country can continue to attract, but what kind of tourism the country wants to continue to build, and what kind of value do we want those visitors to create for the people, for the businesses, for the communities, and for the environment,” he said. The recognition comes as Guyana continues to position its natural and cultural assets as key components of its tourism offering, with sustainability providing a framework for managing growth while preserving the resources and experiences that underpin the sector.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, October 8, 2026

President Ali urges greater link between investment, productivity as economy expands

THE Government of Guyana is placing greater emphasis on carefully managing new financing and boosting productivity as it seeks to sustain economic growth and ensure that increased investment translates into long-term development. President Dr Irfaan Ali has said Guyana must maintain its focus on productivity as oil revenues support investment and economic growth. Speaking about what he described as the country’s “oil era”, Dr Ali said public and publicly guaranteed debt had fallen from 47.4 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) in 2020 to 24.3 per cent in 2024. He said revenue held in, and projected for, the Natural Resource Fund could help cover external

debt, creating more room for investment. Dr Ali said that investment could support health, education, social welfare, infrastructure and agriculture. However, he cautioned that economic expansion should not come at the expense of productivity. “We have to focus heavily on linking productivity to investment, and on ensuring that the growth of the private sector continues to be expansive, allowing the private sector to create those job opportunities. This is important for us in this new era, what we call the oil era, where we see all our indicators, all our indicators,” he said. He also stressed the role of private-sector growth in creating jobs, saying the sector should continue to expand as Guyana’s economy

President Dr. Irfaan Ali develops. He noted that oil-fuelled growth has improved Guyana’s debt indicators

and expanded the resources available for public investment. He also warned that the country must manage new

mission for answers. At the close, some embraced the commissioners, sobbing as they were comforted. Five invited WIN parliamentarians, including the Leader of the Opposition, attempted to hijack the meeting, seeking to draw attention away from the accounts of survivors and bereaved relatives.

than 100 witnesses, consider documentary and technical evidence, and visit communities and locations connected to the tragedy.

financing carefully and focus on productivity. Dr Ali pointed to the IMF’s 2025 debt sustainability analysis, which classified Guyana as facing a lower risk of external and overall debt distress than in its 2023 assessment, when the risk was rated moderate. The IMF’s baseline projection, as cited by President Ali, anticipates that public debt will begin declining after 2026 and stabilise at about 25 per cent of GDP through 2034. “That is important for us to understand because it demonstrates our creditworthiness. It demonstrates our ability to repay our debt. It demonstrates the country’s capacity and capability to have more opportunities in terms of different investment vehicles and lending vehicles, whether it’s the US Exim, UF, the Qatari

investment fund, or other investment funds,” President Ali explained, adding: “Guyana moved from default in one of the world’s most severe debt burdens to comparatively low debt through economic reform, credit and rescheduling, large-scale debt cancellation, and economic growth. Now, oil has further reduced the ratio by rapidly expanding GDP and government resources.” The President said the assessment reflected Guyana’s capacity to repay debt and could support access to a wider range of financing opportunities. He added that, although Guyana was not in an IMF programme, the government continued to engage with the Fund and undergo its risk assessments.

MV Barima inquiry pledges to follow evidence ‘without fear or favour’

THE five-member Commission of Inquiry into the sinking of the MV Barima on Wednesday pledged to conduct an independent, transparent and people-centred investigation into the July 18, 2026, tragedy. Introducing the commissioners to the media, Chairman Justice Godfrey P. Smith said the inquiry would examine not only the vessel’s final moments but also the decisions, conditions and failures that may have contributed to its sinking. “We approach our task with no predetermined view… and will inquire into all the circumstances around the sinking of the Barima, without fear or favour,” he said. The investigation will cover the vessel’s seaworthiness; passenger and cargo operations; the qualifications and conduct of its crew; search, rescue and recovery efforts; regulatory oversight; and human factors that may have influenced decisions before and during the tragedy. Justice Smith stressed that the commission is not a criminal court. Its role is to establish the facts, identify causes and contributing fac-

tors, expose shortcomings and recommend measures to strengthen Guyana’s maritime safety systems—not to determine criminal guilt or award compensation. “Our allegiance is to the law, our terms of reference, procedural fairness and, above all, to the truth as established by credible, tested evidence,” he said.

FAMILIES AND SURVIVORS AT THE CENTRE Even before taking testimony, the commissioners met with approximately 120 relatives and survivors at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre. Some attended the meeting with young children. Justice Smith acknowledged the profound grief families continue to endure and warned that the proceedings could revive painful memories and raise further questions. “We cannot promise that every question you may have will have an answer. But we will endeavour to find those answers,” Justice Smith told the gathering. Family members and survivors who spoke described their grief and loss and appealed to the com-

EVIDENCE WILL DETERMINE WHO TESTIFIES Justice Smith said the commission wants to hear from the three crew members charged in connection with the tragedy because they may hold important information. Their participation, however, must be handled within the law and with due regard for their rights and whatever legal advice they might receive from their lawyers, he said. Asked whether ministers responsible for the sector would be called, Justice Smith declined to prejudge the witness list. “We are collecting as much information as we can, and we promise you that we will follow the evidence,” he said. The commission expects to examine more

SUNKEN VESSEL RETAINS FORENSIC VALUE Recovery of the Barima remains an important part of the investigation, although commissioners said the inquiry’s success does not depend entirely on raising the vessel. Commissioner and maritime expert Andrzej Jasionowski said the vessel’s “forensic value will be there

almost in its entirety; the time has very little effect.” Arrangements for salvaging the vessel are being advanced, and late today, the National Tender Board awarded the contract for the salvaging of the MV Barima to BK International. Commissioner Rear Admiral Hayden Pritchard said substantial documentary, technical and other evidence had already been gathered, allowing the investigation to proceed without relying solely on the vessel’s recovery.

SIX-MONTH TARGET The commission intends to complete its work in approximately six months, while maintaining that a thorough examination of the evidence must guide the process. Smith said the outcome must go beyond explaining the sinking to identifying lessons that can help prevent another tragedy. “When this inquiry is complete, the country should know more than simply what happened… It should know what lessons can properly be learned from the tragedy.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, October 8, 2026

National Prosperity

THE latest World Bank assessment of Guyana’s economy is much more than another impressive set of growth figures. It is a powerful statement that the country is now in an extraordinary phase of economic transformation, and an equally important reminder that the real test of success will be how well this unprecedented opportunity is translated into lasting improvement in the lives of Guyanese. World Bank’s Latin America and the Caribbean Economic Update, October 2026 says Guyana is firmly on top of regional economic performance. The Bank says the country is distinguished by very fast and sustained economic growth since 2020, mainly driven by the scaling-up of offshore oil production. In the latest assessment, real GDP grew by 33.8 percent in 2023 and 43.8 percent in 2024; it is estimated to grow by 19.3 percent in 2025 and projected to grow by 23.7 percent in 2026. Growth is still projected to be remarkably strong beyond this year, with substantial growth expected to remain in the medium term. These figures take on even more importance when placed within the wider regional picture. The World Bank is forecasting growth of just 2.2 per cent for the whole of Latin America and Caribbean region in 2026 after 2.4 per cent growth in 2025. Guyana’s trajectory is thus not just a step forward from its own past, but an economic pathway that is extraordinary by regional standards. That is a noteworthy achievement. Guyana has transitioned from an economy constrained by limited fiscal space and inadequate infrastructure to one with the financial capacity to make transformative investments in roads, bridges, housing, education, healthcare, energy, agriculture and other productive sectors. The World Bank itself points out that Guyana’s rapid growth has been accompanied by increasing fiscal revenues, improved external balances and a falling public-debtto-GDP ratio. These are important indicators, as economic growth is much more meaningful when it improves the state’s ability to invest in its people and national infrastructure.

The challenge facing Guyana is therefore enormous. But the country’s success should not be measured only by the size of its GDP or the number of barrels of oil it produces. The central question is whether today’s extraordinary economic expansion will build an economy that is more productive, more diversified, more resilient and more prosperous for generations to come. This is where the World Bank’s caution is particularly helpful. The Bank has stressed the importance of strengthening public investment management, building institutional capacity and ensuring that the oil wealth brings about broad-based and inclusive development. These are not criticisms of Guyana’s economic progress. Rather, they are the logical responsibilities that come with such progress. With the pace of growth, goes the responsibility to match the opportunities which it offers. Guyana has to keep making sound investments, not just spending more. Each major investment should contribute to building stronger productive capacity, better human capital, improved connectivity and a more competitive private sector. This means that the unprecedented revenues that are associated with the petroleum sector are creating an economy that can thrive well beyond the life span of the current oil boom. The good signs are already present. Oil revenues are funding large scale public investment. And the growth is generating activity outside of the oil sector. The World Bank says the impact of oil production is spreading to sectors such as construction, manufacturing and agriculture. The challenge now is to deepen those linkages and to make sure that Guyanese businesses, workers, farmers, professionals and entrepreneurs are increasingly able to participate in the new economy. Skills need to be aligned with infrastructure and economic growth has to be linked to productivity as investment needs to be complemented with stronger institutions. And the oil wealth has to be transformed into human capital, into technological capac-

ity, into productive assets. This is particularly important as the World Bank’s October report looks beyond traditional economic indicators to the emerging impact of artificial intelligence and digital technology. The Bank said that new technologies can be used to boost productivity throughout the region if businesses and workers acquire the skills and organizational capacity to use them effectively. This is another opportunity for Guyana. A country undergoing rapid economic change should not just import technology. It needs to learn how to build the skills, institutions and businesses that can extract value from it. The next generation of Guyanese has to be ready not just to find jobs, but to create businesses, engineering technologies, manage complex projects and compete in a global economy. This is also where diversification becomes a must. Oil has been the financial engine for Guyana’s transformation, but agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, construction, information and communications technology, logistics, financial services and the emerging green economy must increasingly become part of the broader economic architecture of the country. We should not be trying to “get out of oil too early.” It should be to use the oil era wisely to lay the groundwork for a more robust post-oil economy. This is the opportunity of the hour. Guyana should also be encouraged by the fact that its transformation is being recognized more and more internationally. The World Bank assessment comes after years of increasing international interest in the country’s economic performance and investment potential. The Bank describes Guyana as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, with petroleum revenues used to fund infrastructure and human-capital programs. Nonetheless, international recognition should reinforce rather than undermine the country’s resolve to continue sound economic management. Rapid growth will bring pressures on its own. Inflation, capacity constraints, skilled

labor shortages, infrastructure demands and volatility associated with commodity revenues must all be carefully managed. We should not succumb to the idea that rapid growth will naturally overcome all economic and social problems. Growth provides the resources to solve problems; good governance decides whether those resources are used well. It is therefore right that Guyana welcomes the projections of the World Bank but it should also embrace the wider message of the Bank. It has received an extraordinary economic opportunity. The challenge now is to make that opportunity a permanent national legacy. It means better schools and universities producing the skilled workforce that a modern economy needs. This means reliable energy and transportation systems that lower the cost of doing business. That means modern health care, stronger neighborhoods and quality housing. This means more opportunities for small and medium businesses to grow. It means supporting the farmers and the manufacturers, while creating new markets for Guyanese products. Most importantly, it means making sure that Guyana’s economic transformation is being felt all over the country, not only in the oil fields, Georgetown and the main urban centers, but in rural communities, hinterland regions and among families who have traditionally had fewer opportunities to share in national prosperity. There is some cause for optimism in the World Bank figures. They show that Guyana is not just recovering, but is in the throes of a structural transformation of historic proportions. The task now is to make that change permanent. Guyana is already taking this opportunity to build an economy where today’s oil wealth becomes tomorrow’s human capital, infrastructure, entrepreneurship, innovation and opportunity. As this happens, the country’s impressive growth numbers will ultimately be recalled not just as statistics but as the bedrock upon which a more prosperous Guyana was constructed.

Minister Singh urges J.C. Chandisingh graduates to pursue excellence

SENIOR Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, has urged graduates of J.C. Chandisingh Secondary School to pursue excellence in whatever career path they choose, while lauding Region Six for producing Guyana’s top-performing student in the 2026 Carib-

bean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations. Addressing the school’s annual graduation ceremony on Wednesday, Singh congratulated the graduating students, their parents, teachers, the Board of Governors and the Regional Education Department for the institution’s strong CSEC performance

and its continued record of academic achievement. He noted that J.C. Chandisingh had surpassed the national average in pass rates and had expanded its curriculum to include subjects such as Theatre Arts and Religious Education. The minister also highlighted the school’s contribution to national development,

noting that the institution has been producing students of distinction for nearly a century. Turning to the graduates, Singh said their achievements represented both institutional and personal success. “I want to congratulate the students who are the embodiment, who are the personal manifestation of

this remarkable and successful journey, because these successes, while they are national and regional and institutional, they are also individual and deeply and profoundly personal. They are your successes,” he said. He encouraged the students to remain committed to excellence regardless of the careers they ultimately

pursue. “If you want to be a farmer, be a farmer. If you want to be a doctor, be a doctor. If you want to be an engineer, you want to be a data scientist, be a data scientist. If you want to be a nurse, be a nurse but whatever you See page 8

Rape, innocence and corrupt morality

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, October 8, 2026

I COME from a mother that I loved insanely. I have been married the past 47 years to a woman I love insanely. I have one child who is a woman. Against this background, I believe the female species is the bedrock of civilisation. Women are special to civilisation. Equally as I am a husband, equally as I am the father of a daughter, I am a civilised human trained in philosophy. That kind of existence makes me put justice as the fountainhead of civilisation. I will never throw away decades of my life in which I believe justice is the pillar on which civilisation rests to join a bandwagon of prosecuting any human without that human having recourse to the protection of natural law. In the laws of civilisation, there is no distinction between humans based on gender. Once you make that distinction, justice dies and society evolves into a sad, nihilistic spectacle in which the human species becomes identical with the laws of the jungle. I am in my seventies, and I have seen it all in Guyana, where I have lived all my life. What lacerates my psyche, not mind and heart, but my psyche, is how sections of the Guyanese nationality inside and outside of the land with corrupt psychologies, corrugated minds, and irredeemable degenerate morality make everything a political issue and in doing so blur the distinction between Guyana as a country and the ephemeral government that will come and go while Guyana remains forever. In this Mephistophelean dance of evil minds, people pick on any citizen once it serves their naked anti-government purpose and justice is denied. I see this every day in this country, and once I have a pen, I will confront these juggernauts of evil. Some sections of the Guyanese nationality are so filthy in mind that Guyana is saved through the salutary process of them being based on other countries so they do not dwell among us to infect this young population of Guyana. Those

who are home-based do not have an ounce of embeddedness in the presence of this country. People do not know them. People are not swayed by them. I have seen too much of the attempted destruction of people through anti-government instincts, in which these people were sacrificed on the altar of anti-government hate. As I write this, my mind goes back to the son of the retired Chancellor of the Judiciary. An accusation of verbal abuse was made against him by a woman, and he was persecuted by women activists without his side being made public. I heard his side, and he had points in his favour. He was a victim of people who see everything in anti-government light. Those with the Faustian minds see society in gender-based perspectives where justice is a fruit to be delivered not to those who are entitled to it but to those who suit the anti-government purpose of those beyond moral redemption. Sections of this society are so morally empty that exposure is long overdue. It simply lacerates your nerves when you see how predatory these people are, yet their paroxysm of anti-government energy is a mask for their own oceanic immorality. They should be the last to speak about women’s protection. When you’ve been around as long as I have, you see how immoral these people are and you are driven by the need to expose them. Here are two examples. A so-called radical politician once had an affair with three women in a women’s rights organisation at the same time with the knowledge of all three. All three women are unapologetic about their hero’s conduct. Secondly, a divorce case should have resulted in serious charges of physical violence, but the accused is their friend. If you are not their friend then you are hunted down. My perspectives are based on natural justice, and our commitment

to natural justice should guide us at all times. Natural justice should not be gender-based. Justice is colour-blind. Humans are entitled to justice. Humans must have the right to be heard. The Kafkaesque journey of those who are bent on seeing Guyana with political lenses must be confronted because justice is a casualty no sane society can afford to lose. This Draculean instinct is not going to stop. We saw how an entire hotel was burnt down and how the country on April 28, 2025, was attacked because every incident is given

an anti-government twist. These vultured minds are predators. They go out looking for victims. That is why I used the adjective Draculean. The society needs to fight back. We

will lose the precious value of the right to justice if we allow people to be figuratively slaughtered by the insane cravings of those who cannot separate party from government. DISCLAIMER: 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.

BK International awarded contract to salvage MV Barima

THE National Tender Board has confirmed that BK International has been awarded the contract to salvage the MV Barima. During a meeting on Wednesday, family members were informed that BK International had already begun preparations to salvage the vessel. Commissioner Andrzej Jasionowski said the salvage operation was proceeding, with the team preparing equipment and detailed plans. He said he had met the salvage team the previous day to discuss how the work could be carried out carefully. Meanwhile, Ms Nyree Dawn Alfonso, addressing concerns about delays in the process, explained that rushing the operation could damage the wreck and compromise evidence. Salvage masters and engineers were already working on preparations, and the team had promised to provide daily progress reports. Further, the Chairman of the Commission of Inquiry

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, October 8, 2026

(CoI) into the MV Barima tragedy, Justice Godfrey P Smith, stressed that the Commission will operate independently as it begins its investigation into the deadly incident. Justice Smith made it clear that although the Commission was appointed by President Irfaan Ali, it is not an arm of the government or any other institution or entity. “Our allegiance is to the law, to our Terms of Reference, to procedural fairness and to the truth as established through credible and tested evidence,” the Chairman said. Justice Smith said the inquiry will seek to establish what happened to the MV Barima on the night of 18 July 2026, why it happened, whether there were warning signs or failures, and whether applicable laws, regulations and safety procedures were properly followed and enforced. He stressed that the Commission will follow the evidence wherever it leads.

The inquiry is also expected to examine the wider systems governing maritime safety, with recommendations to be made on measures aimed at strengthening oversight and reducing the risk of a similar tragedy occurring in the future. Site visits Today, the Commission will visit the Kingston Wharf, the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) and the Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD). The following day, the commissioners are expected to visit two dry-dock facilities on the East Bank of Demerara. They will then travel to Mabaruma and Port Kaituma on 12 and 13 October, respectively, where they will visit the wharf facilities and meet survivors and families affected by the tragedy. Shadick emphasised that those engagements are intended to allow the commissioners to meet affected persons and familiarise themselves with the relevant

locations, rather than collect evidence outside the formal hearings. The formal evidence-gathering process will begin on 14 October and is expected to continue Monday to Friday, from 09:00hrs to 16:00hrs. Interpreters and counsellors are also expected to be available where necessary. Shadick said counsel for the CoI, attorneys Arudranauth Gossai and Teni Housty, have already been working behind the scenes to identify and interview potential witnesses and gather relevant documentation. The Commission has also been reviewing documents and technical information related to the vessel’s seaworthiness, the circumstances under which it sailed and the crew’s operation of the vessel during the voyage. Preliminary work previously announced by the Commission included obtaining information from MARAD, the T&HD and the Coast Guard. The Commission will

examine the circumstances surrounding the capsizing and sinking of the MV Barima, including the events leading up to the disaster, the vessel’s seaworthiness, crew operations, safety procedures and the response following the incident. It will also consider whether negligence, misconduct, dereliction of duty, systemic deficiencies or institutional failures contributed to the disaster. The MV Barima tragedy involved the 87-year-old passenger and cargo vessel, which departed the Kingston Goods Wharf in Georgetown at about 15:15hrs on 18 July, bound for Port Kaituma. The vessel later encountered difficulties while sailing off the Essequibo Coast, near the mouth of the Pomeroon River, before capsizing. An estimated 179 passengers and crew were aboard at the time. The disaster claimed 73 lives, while 76 people survived and approximately 30 others remain unaccounted for, ac-

cording to authorities. The sinking triggered a large-scale search, rescue and recovery operation involving the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard, Guyana Police Force, Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), Guyana Fire and Rescue Service and Civil Defence Commission, alongside local fishermen, private vessels and international partners. Divers were deployed to conduct underwater searches around the wreck, while teams scoured extensive areas for survivors, missing persons and victims. The tragedy subsequently resulted in criminal charges against three Transport and Harbours Department employees. Captain Kevin Price, Chief Mate Rondell Dwayne Roberts and Goods Superintendent Delon Granderson were each charged with murder in connection with the disaster and are before the Charity Magistrate’s Court. The three accused are currently on remand.

Minister Singh urges J.C. Chandisingh ...

From page 6

choose to do, I implore you and I appeal to you, do it well. Do it excellently. And the rest will take care of itself,” Singh told the graduates. The minister stressed that their graduation marked another stage in their development rather than the end

of their journey. Singh also used the occasion to outline the government’s continuing efforts to broaden access to high-quality education across the country, saying excellence should not be confined to a small number of traditional top-perform-

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, has urged graduates of J.C. Chandisingh Secondary School to pursue excellence in whatever career path they choose ing schools. He said the government, led by President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, wants schools throughout Guyana

to be able to produce students capable of competing at the highest levels. “We want you to be able to attend high school

in Berbice, in Essequibo, in Linden, in Region 10—in Region Nine, in Region One, in Region Seven or Region Eight. We want you to be able to attend secondary school irrespective of where you and your parents live, and be able to excel,” Singh said. He said this objective was driving a range of programmes aimed at ensuring that secondary schools across Guyana can provide world-class education. According to Singh, the focus includes expanding access to adequate classroom spaces and facilities while enabling schools to offer a wider range of subjects and activities. He pointed to the need for natural science laboratories, technical and vocational facilities, information and communications technology infrastructure, as well as opportunities for students to participate in extra-curricular and sporting activities. Earlier in the pro-

gramme, Headmistress Sabereena Supaul highlighted the school’s improved CSEC performance, including an almost 100 per cent increase in the number of students sitting the examinations. She said the school recorded 100 per cent passes in several subjects, with the top graduating student, Sufia Mohamed, securing 12 Grade Ones, six Grade Twos and one Grade Three. Saria Yunas, who wrote 13 subjects, followed with 12 Grade Ones and one Grade Three. Singh also congratulated Region Six for producing Guyana’s top CSEC performer for 2026. The top student, from Tagore Memorial Secondary School, achieved 26 Grade Ones and one Grade Two after writing 27 subjects. The ceremony was also attended by Regional Education Officer Satesh Udit, who delivered remarks.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 8, 2026

CJIA CEO highlights Guyana’s expanding air connectivity

GUYANA’S air passenger traffic has increased by more than 400 per cent over the past five years, with further expansion expected as the country’s economy, tourism sector and investment opportunities continue to attract international interest. Chief Executive Officer of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Ramesh Ghir, highlighted the significant growth in Guyana’s aviation sector on Wednesday during a panel discussion focused on strengthening Caribbean connectivity through airlift, access and seamless travel. Ghir attributed the country’s progress in expanding regional and international air services to a willingness to pursue opportunities, work

with partners and make strategic decisions to improve connectivity. He said the airport has worked closely with regional partners, airports and other stakeholders to identify opportunities and attract airlines to Guyana. “We actually worked with our partners in the region, with Tourism Valley, with the airports,” Ghir said, explaining that joint airport-to-airport approaches and negotiations had helped to attract new opportunities. He said the airport also took a conscious decision to place the passenger experience at the centre of its operations. “We took a conscious decision at the airport, for example, that we want to own the passenger experience,”

CJIA’s CEO Ramesh Ghir (Sachin Persaud photo) he said. According to Ghir, passenger arrivals have grown by more than 400 per cent over the past five years,

while arrivals during 2026 have so far increased by 12 per cent. He also pointed to continued expansion in air cargo, which he identified as

another growing component of Guyana’s aviation sector. Looking ahead, Ghir highlighted the construction of a new terminal at CJIA as a major component of the country’s plans to accommodate increasing passenger traffic and strengthen its position as an aviation hub. He said the new terminal is being designed to reflect Guyana’s culture and way of life while providing additional capacity and improved facilities for travellers. The existing international terminal is also expected to be reconfigured as part of the broader development. The project received a $3.2 billion allocation in Budget 2026, with preparatory work having commenced in 2025. The expansion is being pursued against the

backdrop of increased international travel to Guyana and growing interest from investors and tourists. Ghir said the outlook for the aviation industry remains positive despite challenges, including rising fuel costs and other pressures affecting the sector. “The outlook in this industry is very positive,” he said, noting that passenger traffic is projected to double by 2045. He said the projected growth underscores the need for Guyana to invest now in infrastructure and capacity to ensure the country is positioned to benefit from expanding regional and international connectivity. “As a hub, we will invest,” Ghir said.

ExxonMobil to conduct offshore pipeline maintenance off Crane

ExxonMobil Guyana is set to begin maintenance work on an offshore pipeline near Crane, West Coast Demerara, on October 14, with the activities expected to continue until approximately December 1. The maintenance is intended to address a finding identified during inspection of a near-shore section of the pipeline earlier this year and is part of measures to ensure the safety, integrity and reliability of the infrastructure. ExxonMobil Guyana said the work will be carried out in accordance with international standards and is aimed at maintaining the pipeline’s long-term integrity ahead of the start-up of Gas-to-Energy operations. The company said the pipeline is currently pressurised with inert nitrogen gas and has not yet been placed into operation. As a result, it said, the infrastructure does not pose a risk to the public or the environment.

The maintenance programme is being undertaken before the pipeline becomes operational to minimise the likelihood of future interruptions once Gas-to-Energy operations commence. ExxonMobil Guyana is coordinating with relevant stakeholders ahead of the works, while the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) is expected to issue a marine notice providing information to mariners operating in

the area. The company said the maintenance forms part of its broader commitment to conducting operations safely and responsibly and in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements. The pipeline forms part of the infrastructure associated with Guyana’s Gas-to-Energy initiative, which is intended to transport natural gas for use in power generation and other related activities.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 8, 2026

PM Phillips to represent Guyana at regional energy meeting

PRIME Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips will represent Guyana at the 56th Meeting of Ministers of the Latin American and Caribbean Energy Organization (OLADE), where regional leaders are expected to focus on energy security, investment, technological innovation and cooperation. The October 8–9 meeting in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, forms part of the 11th Energy Week and will bring together energy ministers, development partners and international organisations to examine the region’s role in the evolving global energy landscape.

Prime Minister Phillips will be accompanied by Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Energy Agency, Dr Mahender Sharma. Guyana is expected to use the ministerial forum to outline its priorities for building a diversified, affordable and reliable energy system in keeping with the Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030. Among the areas to be highlighted are the development of natural gas and renewable energy, modernisation of the national electricity grid, battery storage, energy efficiency and the expansion of electric mobility. Guyana’s participation will

also showcase ongoing efforts to extend electricity access to hinterland, riverine and Indigenous communities, with improved energy access supporting education, healthcare, local businesses and broader community development. The Ministerial Dialogue, being held under the theme, “The strategic role of Latin America and the Caribbean in the new global energy order,” will consider how countries across the region can leverage their energy resources to attract investment, strengthen competitiveness and advance sustainable development. Discussions are also expected to address the resilience of energy

infrastructure, regional integration, and the implications of artificial intelligence and digitalisation for electricity demand and longterm energy planning. Ministers will consider draft decisions covering artificial intelligence and energy, the electrification of energy demand, circular economy practices in the energy sector, and the proposed establishment of a Regional Council of Youth in Energy. Guyana’s participation is expected to reinforce its commitment to regional energy cooperation and an inclusive transition that strengthens energy security while ensuring that the benefits

Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips of energy development reach households, businesses and communities.

Timehri roundabout construction to begin soon CONSTRUCTION of a new roundabout at the Timehri Junction, in the vicinity of the Timehri Police Station, is expected to begin soon, with the Ministry of Public Works implementing a traffic management plan aimed at minimising

disruption to motorists and residents. The ministry said a comprehensive consultation exercise was conducted before the works, involving 44 stakeholders within the project area. Those consulted included

seven major institutions—the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Laparkan, Guyana Prison Service, Guyana Fire Service, Guyana Defence Force, Marriott and Phoenix LTB—as well as 15 small businesses, two schools and 20 residents.

During the initial phase of construction, work will focus on the roadside drain at the north-eastern section of the junction, adjacent to the Timehri Police Station. One lane will be temporarily closed to facilitate the works. As construction advances to the main roundabout structure, two-way traffic will be maintained along the western carriageway. The ministry said a dedicated emergency access lane will also be maintained at

the entrance to the Timehri Police Station to ensure that emergency vehicles can enter and exit the facility without interruption, under the direction of police personnel. Traffic management measures will include the installation of cones, barriers, high-visibility warning devices and directional signs throughout the work zone. Members of the Guyana Police Force Traffic Department will also be deployed

to assist with the movement of traffic. Motorists using the Timehri Junction have been urged to exercise extreme caution, reduce their speed to 30 km/h and comply with all traffic signs and directions from police officers. The Ministry of Public Works has appealed to motorists, residents, businesses and other road users for patience and cooperation while the infrastructure works are undertaken.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 8, 2026

Guyana’s delegation attends 153rd IPU Assembly in Tanzania A GUYANESE parliamentary delegation is participating in the 153rd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and related meetings in Arusha, Tanzania, with discussions focusing on inclusive governance, community empowerment and the rights of persons with disabilities. The assembly is being held from October 5 to 9 at the Arusha International Conference Centre, bringing together parliamentarians from across the world to deliberate on issues affecting parliamentary democracy and governance. Guyana’s delegation is headed by Speaker of the National Assembly and IPU Governing Council, Member Manzoor Nadir, J.P., M.P. The delegation also includes Minister of Human Services and Social Security and member of the IPU Bureau of Women Parliamentarians, Dr Vindhya Persaud, M.P.;

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister and member of the Bureau of Democracy and Human Rights, Warren Kwame McCoy, M.P.; and Parliamentary Executive Officer Dr Carlleta Charles, who is serving as secretary to the delegation. The General Debate at the assembly is centred on the theme “Enhancing good governance and empowering communities through inclusivity, trust and opportunities for all.” Discussions are expected to culminate in the adoption of an outcome document addressing the theme, as well as a resolution titled “Inclusive social development for all: Parliamentary strategies to promote the rights and empowerment of persons with disabilities.” The resolution is being piloted by the IPU Committee on Democracy and Human Rights, on which McCoy serves as a Bureau member. The week-long pro-

Guyana’s delegation is headed by Speaker of the National Assembly and IPU Governing Council Member, Manzoor Nadir, J.P., M.P; Minister of Human Services and Social Security and member of the IPU Bureau of Women Parliamentarians, Dr Vindhya Persaud, M.P.; Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister and member of the Bureau of Democracy and Human Rights, Warren Kwame McCoy, M.P.; and Parliamentary Executive Officer, Dr Carlleta Charles, who is serving as secretary to the delegation

gramme also includes meetings of the IPU’s parliamentary bodies, including the Standing Committee on Democracy and Human Rights and the Bureau and Fo-

rum of Women Parliamentarians.

Guyana’s delegation is also participating in

the meeting of the Group of Latin America and Caribbean Parliaments, along with workshops and side events examining ways to empower persons with disabilities. Other key activities include the election of a new IPU President and meetings of the Governing Council to elect members to various IPU offices and take decisions relating to the organisation’s operations. Founded more than 135 years ago, the IPU comprises 184 national parliaments and 15 regional parliamentary bodies. The organisation provides a platform for parliamentarians to strengthen parliamentary democracy, promote peace and develop sustainable relationships and networks among legislatures worldwide.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 8, 2026

Health Minister visits three children recovering after heart surgeries at GPHC - 16 heart procedures completed

Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, visited the recovering children at the hospital’s Paediatric High Dependency Unit, where he met with the patients and their families and received updates on their recovery THREE children remain hospitalised at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) following a series of paediatric cardiac procedures performed as part of a Government initiative to expand access to specialised treatment for children with congenital heart defects. Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, visited the

recovering children at the hospital’s Paediatric High Dependency Unit, where he met with the patients and their families and received updates on their recovery. The procedures were conducted between September 28 and October 2 by an 18-member specialist team from Apollo Hospitals in India, working alongside more than 50 local

healthcare professionals at GPHC. A total of 16 procedures were successfully completed, including 10 complex openheart surgeries, three catheter-based device closures and three diagnostic catheterisations. The procedures benefitted 13 children, with some patients undergoing catheterisation

before their corrective surgery. All 16 procedures were successfully completed, with 10 of the 13 patients subsequently discharged from the hospital. The three remaining patients continue to receive care and monitoring at GPHC. During his visit, Anthony spent time with the children and their families, inquiring about their recovery and offer-

ing words of encouragement. The initiative has also provided an opportunity for local medical professionals to work directly alongside international specialists, strengthening their experience and knowledge in paediatric cardiac care. For the children and their families, the programme has provided access to specialised cardiac treatment without the

need to travel overseas for care. The collaboration forms part of ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Health to expand specialised healthcare services in Guyana through international partnerships while strengthening local expertise and increasing the range of services available at GPHC.

Guyana expands local forensic toxicology testing capacity

GUYANA is moving to expand its capacity to conduct forensic toxicology testing locally as nine personnel from the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and Guyana Forensic Science Laboratory undergo specialised training aimed at speeding up the delivery of scientific evidence for criminal investigations. The four-week programme is being conducted in collaboration with the National Forensic Sciences University of India and builds on toxicology testing already being undertaken in Guyana. Three GPF personnel and six members of the Guyana Forensic Science Laboratory are participating in the training, which is intended to

broaden the range of toxicology tests that can be performed locally. The initiative is also expected to reduce the need to send forensic samples overseas and shorten the time investigators wait for critical results. Forensic toxicology can assist investigators in determining whether drugs, alcohol, poisons or other substances may have contributed to a crime or death. Timely analysis can therefore help establish key facts, identify evidence and advance investigations. Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond, said strengthening local forensic expertise is ultimately aimed at improving the administration of justice.

Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond, flanked by other officials at the meeting, said strengthening local expertise is ultimately about improving the delivery of justice “Behind every forensic result is an investigation, and often a victim or family waiting for answers. The longer

investigators wait for critical evidence, the longer a case can take to move forward,” Walrond said.

She said developing greater expertise locally would allow more testing to be conducted in Guyana and facili-

tate faster access to forensic results. “That means stronger investigations, better evidence before the courts and a justice system better equipped to deliver timely outcomes,” the minister said. The training is also bringing police investigators and laboratory personnel together, with the aim of strengthening coordination throughout the forensic evidence process, from collection and preservation to analysis and presentation during investigations. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen Guyana’s forensic capabilities and increase the role of timely and reliable scientific evidence in criminal investigations.

ERC to host national consultation on constitutional reform

THE Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) will host a national consultation on constitutional reform next Tuesday as part of efforts to gather public recommendations on issues affecting ethnic relations, equality, inclusion and protection from discrimination in Guyana. The consultation, scheduled for October 13 at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., will also introduce the ERC’s Draft Glossary of Ethnically Sensitive Terms. The event forms part of the Commission’s mandate to promote harmony and good relations among Guyana’s diverse ethnic communities and will provide citizens and stakeholders with an opportunity to contribute to the national discussion on constitutional reform. The principal focus will be constitutional matters relating to ethnic relations,

equality, inclusion, protection from discrimination, ethnic security, and the role and effectiveness of institutions established to advance those objectives. Participants will engage in structured discussions through 11 groups, comprising 10 constituency groups and one public

participation group. The discussions are intended to generate recommendations on constitutional matters falling within the ERC’s remit and mandate. The recommendations arising from the consultation will be consolidated by the ERC into a report for submission to the Constitutional Reform Commission (CRC) ahead of its December 31, 2026, deadline. The consultation will also feature a brief introduction to the ERC’s Draft Glossary of Ethnically Sensitive Terms, which is intended as a public education resource to promote greater understanding of language and terminology relating to ethnicity and their potential impact on social relations. Participants will have an opportunity to provide feedback on the draft glossary at a later stage as part of the broader con-

sultation process. The ERC is encouraging citizens to participate by sharing their experiences, perspectives and ideas on strengthening equality, inclusion and harmonious relations in Guyana. Community organisations, civil society groups and other stakeholders are also being urged to attend and contribute to the discussions. Persons interested in participating can register through the ERC Guyana social media pages, @ERCGuyana, where the registration link and additional information are available. The Commission said broad public participation is important as Guyana continues its national conversation on constitutional reform and the strengthening of harmony and good relations among its communities.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 8, 2026

Pieters challenges Mohamed to publish evidence to support ‘Team Mohamed’ page deactivation claims - rejects allegations

ATTORNEY-AT-LAW Selwyn Pieters has denied any part in the deactivation of the "Team Mohamed" Facebook page, challenging Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed to publish whatever evidence he relies on to say otherwise. In a statement issued Tuesday, Pieters said he had no role, "directly or indirectly," in the page's deactivation. He called any claim that he caused or requested it false and said none has been backed with evidence. Pieters said Mohamed has given several different explanations for the page's temporary unavailability. He said Mohamed first blamed the Guyana Police Force after being detained over allegations relating to an unlicensed fast boat and the absence of a valid captain's licence. Mohamed then pointed to the People's Progressive Party, and later said Meta, the

owner and operator of Facebook, had deactivated the page over alleged copyright infringement. "He has now sought to attribute responsibility to me. This I reject out of hand," Pieters said. Pieters noted that Mohamed has said his page was restored after his attorneys engaged Meta. He argued that those lawyers should be able to disclose any response from Meta explaining the deactivation or suspension, and he called on Mohamed to release it "so that the facts can speak for themselves." Pieters said he wished to address, "for completeness," a separate issue that should not be conflated with the page's deactivation. On Saturday, October 3, he said, he saw a post by Mohamed about a Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU) operation that referred to President Dr Mohamed Ir-

Attorney-at-Law Selwyn Pieters faan Ali. He also read a CANU press release issued that afternoon. In his professional judgement, he said, the post was defamatory and went beyond legitimate political criticism or public commentary. He said he acted independently, as the attorney authorised to represent the President on social media matters. Around 5:50 p.m. that day, he

said, he called Mohamed on his cellphone and asked him to remove the post. Mohamed referred him to his attorney, Siand Dhurjon. Pieters said he spoke with Dhurjon around 6:45 p.m. and formally communicated that the post was defamatory and should be removed, failing which he would pursue the remedies available to his client.

According to Pieters, Dhurjon said he would raise the matter with Mohamed but could not guarantee the request would be honoured. The post stayed up. Pieters said the longer defamatory material remains online, the greater the harm to his client. When he last reviewed the page, he said, the post had 1.8K likes, 218 comments and 618 shares. Having given notice and a chance to resolve the matter, Pieters said he then used his authority as counsel for the President to submit the post to Meta under its applicable processes and policies. "Meta independently considered the submission and took whatever action it deemed appropriate based on its own assessment. I did not determine Meta's decision, nor did I have the power to do so," he said. Pieters stressed that his action on a specific publication was entirely separate

from the earlier deactivation of the Team Mohamed page. He also rejected any suggestion of political motive. "My actions were not political, nor were they undertaken at the direction of a political party," he said. He described them as taken in his professional capacity, based on his assessment of the publication and the authority given to him to protect his client's legal interests. Pieters acknowledged that freedom of expression and freedom of the press are fundamental rights that must be protected, but said they do not place anyone beyond the law, including the law of defamation. "Where I determine, in the proper exercise of my professional judgement, that my client's legal rights have been infringed, I am entitled and professionally obligated to pursue the lawful remedies available to him," he said.

Transmission relocation advances to facilitate Gas-to-Energy works

G U YA N A P o w e r a n d Light Inc. (GPL) is in the final phase of relocating the LS6 submarine cable linking Georgetown-Kingston to the Vreed-en-Hoop substation, clearing the way for new transmission infrastructure associated with the Gas-to-Energy Project. GPL Engineer Alfred Nunes said on Wednesday that two of the cable’s three conductors have already been relocated, with workers now completing final tensioning before moving the third conductor into position. The relocation is necessary to allow Kalpataru Projects International Limited, the company contracted to undertake the transmission works, to erect a new monopole and establish the planned transmission link between Wales and the Vreed-en-Hoop substation. Nunes said the existing transmission structure is situated along the path of the new infrastructure and must therefore be moved before the planned works can proceed. “We have to take out this line mainly to reroute it. Reroute it at Vreed-en-Hoop substation,” Nunes said. The relocation is also

Engineer Alfred Nunes intended to strengthen the reliability and redundancy of the electricity network serving the Vreed-en-Hoop area, particularly as demand from customers supplied by the substation continues to increase. Nunes explained that the new transmission infrastructure will facilitate the movement of electricity generated through the Gas-to-Energy project to the Vreed-en-Hoop substation while providing an additional transmission pathway. “The shifting of the network also is for Kalpataru to complete their job to erect the monopole of bringing power from Wales to the Vreed-en-Hoop substation so that we can have redundancy in terms of power supply to the Vreed-enHoop substation,” he said.

Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) continues work to clear the path for new transmission infrastructure that will support the Gas-to-Energy Project, with the relocation of the LS6 transmission line in West Demerara He said the additional capacity is becoming increasingly important as electricity demand in the area grows. “Because customers are growing in terms of demand at this substation,” Nunes said. According to the engineer, the works are therefore intended not only to facilitate the Gas-to-Energy project but also to improve the network’s capacity to meet increasing demand

and enhance the reliability of electricity supplied to customers. With two conductors already shifted, crews are currently carrying out final tensioning and preparing to relocate the third. “Presently, we already shifted two of the three conductors already,” Nunes said. “So presently, we are at the phase where we are doing the final tensioning up of those two phases and we now proceeding to the

third one.” The three poles required for the relocation have already been installed, with workers now moving the conductors onto the new structures. Nunes said the remaining work involves moving the third phase into position and completing the necessary connections at both ends of the relocated line. “So what we are just basically doing is just moving across the third phase

so that it would complete,” he said. Jumpers have already been installed on the two completed phases, while work has commenced on the final end of the line. Much of the remaining activity is concentrated on the northern side, where the third conductor is being moved into position before the final connections are made at the Vreed-en-Hoop substation. Nunes said the immediate priority is to complete the final phase of the relocation and restore power to customers affected by the ongoing works. The relocation forms part of the wider expansion and strengthening of Guyana’s transmission network as additional generation capacity comes on stream and electricity demand continues to rise. By clearing the existing LS6 infrastructure from the route of the planned Wales- Vreed-en-Hoop transmission link, GPL is facilitating the construction of infrastructure required to transmit additional power while providing greater redundancy and reliability at the Vreed-en-Hoop substation.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 8, 2026

Seminar highlights green job opportunities for young Guyanese

YOUNG Guyanese are being encouraged to prepare for emerging employment opportunities in the low-carbon economy as the country advances its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030. The issue was highlighted during a recent seminar hosted by the Guyana Chamber of Commerce and Industry on October 1 under the theme “Building Skills for a Sustainable Future.” Dr Pradeepa Bholanath, Senior Director for Climate Change and REDD+ at the Ministry of Natural Resources, engaged students and teachers from several secondary schools on Guyana’s transition towards a low-carbon economy and the skills required to participate in emerging sectors. The discussions focused

Dr Pradeepa Bholanath, Senior Director for Climate Change and REDD+ at the Ministry of Natural Resources, engaged students and teachers from several secondary schools on Guyana’s transition towards a low-carbon economy and the skills required to participate in emerging sectors

on Guyana’s commitment to creating 250,000 low-carbon and green jobs, with opportunities identified in areas including forestry, biodiversity conservation, sustainable tourism, renewable energy, environmental management and climate technology. Through presentations, videos and group activities, students examined environmental challenges and explored the skills and qualifications that could position them for future employment in the green economy. The seminar also highlighted the importance of technology and innovation in preparing the next generation of workers, while drawing attention to internships, scholarships and specialised training opportunities. The engagement linked LCDS 2030 with education,

skills development and career planning, giving students a clearer understanding of how environmental sustainability could translate into employment and entrepreneurship opportunities. Participants were also encouraged to consider the role young people can play in Guyana’s transition to a low-carbon economy and in developing solutions to emerging environmental and climate-related challenges. The seminar formed part of efforts to increase awareness among young people about the opportunities associated with Guyana’s low-carbon development agenda and the importance of preparing the workforce to meet the demands of emerging industries.

GYEC said such support would be particularly important for firsttime borrowers who may require assistance with preparing business plans, maintaining proper financial records and managing loans responsibly. The organisation also highlighted the bank’s emphasis on collaboration and consortium-building, which could allow entrepreneurs with complementary skills and businesses to combine their resources and pursue opportunities that may be beyond the capacity of individual enterprises. GYEC Executive Director Dennon Lewis urged prospective borrowers to approach the financing process with careful planning and a clear understanding of their responsibilities. “A loan is an opportunity and a responsibility, and we want our members to walk through this door prepared,” Lewis said. He added that the Chamber was encouraging its members to submit well-prepared applica-

tions and use borrowed funds productively. “When young entrepreneurs borrow wisely, invest in productivity and repay on time, the Bank's resources grow and reach the next young person in line,” he said. GYEC said it stands ready to work with the GDB to reach young entrepreneurs across Guyana’s 10 administrative regions. The Chamber also congratulated the bank’s inaugural Board of Directors, including Chairperson Abu Zaman, Deputy Chairperson Kathy Smith and Directors James Bond, Sukrishnalall Pasha, Dion Inniss, Nalinie Singh and Praem Rambharak. The GDB was recently operationalised with a mandate to widen access to development financing and support productive activity, particularly among businesses that may face difficulties obtaining financing through conventional commercial lending channels.

GYEC hails Development Bank launch as boost for young entrepreneurs

THE Guyana Youth Entrepreneurship Chamber (GYEC) has welcomed the operationalisation of the Guyana Development Bank (GDB), saying its financing model could help

address longstanding barriers faced by young entrepreneurs seeking capital to establish and expand their businesses. In a statement issued on October 6, GYEC said the new institution

represents a significant expansion of access to financing for young Guyanese, particularly those who have struggled to secure traditional bank loans because of limited collateral, credit history

or business track records. The Chamber noted that the GDB’s financing model includes zero-interest, zero-collateral loans, with young people, women and persons with disabilities identified as priority groups. GYEC Senior Vice-President, Juliana Lopes, said the bank could change the financing landscape for young entrepreneurs with viable business ideas but limited access to conventional credit. “Every week we meet young people in Georgetown, Berbice, Essequibo and the hinterland who have done the hard work of building a product, finding customers and keeping their records, and who still cannot get a first loan because they have nothing to pledge,” Lopes said. She said the GYEC welcomed the Government’s move to establish an institution focused on addressing that financing gap and encouraged young entrepreneurs to make use of the opportunity. The Chamber also welcomed the GDB’s emphasis on mentorship, training and business coaching alongside financing.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 8, 2026

Minister Rodrigues calls for stronger Caribbean partnerships as tourism growth accelerates

TOURISM development must extend beyond increasing visitor arrivals to creating sustainable economic opportunities for communities, local businesses and entrepreneurs across the Caribbean, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues, said on Tuesday. Rodrigues made the point while delivering the feature remarks at the opening of the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) 2026, which is being hosted by Guyana. She said tourism has the potential to connect Guyana’s culture, cuisine, people and tourism products with markets at home and abroad, while creating livelihoods, stimulating demand for local goods and services and attracting investment to communities with growth potential. With Guyana serving as host of this year’s regional conference, Rodrigues said the country’s tourism strategy is focused

on building a sector that reflects its identity while creating meaningful opportunities for citizens and supporting long-term national development. “For us, hosting SOTIC is also an opportunity to place Guyana's tourism development within a wider Caribbean context. We have much to share, much to learn, and significant scope to strengthen the partnerships that can support the future of tourism across the region,” she said. Rodrigues said Guyana’s tourism industry has expanded beyond the traditional hotel and tour operator model, creating opportunities for farmers, fishermen, drivers, tour guides, artisans, entertainers and entrepreneurs. She said the sector also has the potential to generate greater opportunities for young people and micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. The minister said the objective should therefore not be

New probation officers undergo week-long training

The training, which runs from October 5 to 9, 2026, is equipping the officers with the knowledge and practical skills required to effectively discharge their responsibilities and provide professional support to individuals and families THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security is strengthening the capacity of its Probation and Social Services Department through a week-long training programme for newly appointed Probation Officers. The training, which runs from October 5 to 9, 2026, is equipping the officers with the knowledge and practical skills required to effectively discharge their responsibilities and provide professional support to individuals and families. The programme covers key areas including report writing, investigative techniques, effective communication and the legal framework governing probation and social services. During the current phase

of the programme, participants are focusing primarily on the theoretical aspects of their duties, establishing a foundation that will support the practical application of their knowledge. The training forms part of the department’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its complement of officers and improve the quality of services provided to persons and families who come into contact with the probation and social services system. Through the initiative, the ministry is seeking to ensure that newly appointed officers are adequately prepared to carry out their responsibilities while applying the relevant legal, investigative and communication skills in their day-to-day work.

limited to recording higher visitor arrivals, but to developing an ecosystem in which more Guyanese can participate in and benefit from tourism’s expansion. Guyana recorded 453,489 visitor arrivals in 2025, the highest number ever recorded, representing a 22 per cent increase over 2024. The growth has continued into 2026, with 360,623 visitors recorded during the first nine months, Rodrigues said. She noted that the increase in arrivals has been accompanied by efforts to strengthen the infrastructure and systems needed to accommodate a growing tourism industry. Among the key developments has been an expansion in air connectivity, with 12 new airlines added to the Guyanese market in recent years, providing greater connections to North America, Europe, the Caribbean and South America. The country has also seen an

expansion of its accommodation capacity, with nine internationally branded hotels entering the market. According to Rodrigues, the new hotels have increased accommodation choices for visitors, while signalling investor confidence in Guyana as a tourism destination and supporting its emergence as a meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) destination. The minister also highlighted sustainability as an increasingly important component of Guyana’s tourism development strategy. “Our commitment to sustainable tourism is not a marketing exercise. It is becoming part of how we develop and measure the quality of our destination,” she said. Rodrigues stressed that Guyana’s forests, biodiversity, rivers, wildlife and Indigenous heritage are valuable national, community and global assets that must be

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues (Sachin Persaud photo) protected as the country seeks to derive greater economic value from tourism. She said the future of tourism should not simply be about bringing more visitors to more destinations, but about adopting smarter approaches to planning, technology and understanding visitor needs while ensuring that development remains sustainable and inclusive. The minister said greater attention must also be placed on ensuring that tourism growth in one area creates opportunities for other sectors and communities to participate in the wider tourism value chain.

She further positioned Guyana’s participation in SOTIC as an opportunity to deepen regional co-operation and share experiences as Caribbean countries seek to strengthen their tourism industries. “As President Ali has often said, the prosperity of Guyana must also contribute to the prosperity of our region. That is the spirit in which Guyana comes to this conference—not simply to tell our story, but to share our experience, listen to the experiences of others, and build partnerships that can move Caribbean tourism forward,” Rodrigues said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 8, 2026

Guyana, partners review US$5M education plan

THE Ministry of Education and national, regional and international partners are reviewing the progress of Guyana’s US$5 million Global Partnership for Education (GPE) Compact, with a focus on strengthening school leadership, improving the use of education data and ensuring the sustainability of ongoing reforms. The Mid-Term Review was held on Tuesday to assess implementation since the GPE Compact was launched in 2023, identify continuing challenges and inform the development of Guyana’s next national Education Sector Plan. Supported by a US$5 million GPE System Transformation Grant, the Partnership Compact provides a coordinated framework for government policy and international financial and techni-

cal assistance, rather than financing a series of separate short-term projects. At the centre of the initiative is the strengthening of instructional leadership across school and district management networks. A key area under review is progress in equipping Headteachers and District Education Officers (DEOs) to take on stronger instructional leadership roles through the National Education Leadership Academy (NELA) programme. The initiative seeks to strengthen school management and establish clearer performance standards while addressing longstanding challenges, including seniority-based promotion practices and limited support for middle-level education supervisors. Participants are also examining the use of foundational learning assess-

The Mid-Term Review was held on Tuesday to assess implementation since the GPE Compact was launched in 2023, identify continuing challenges and inform the development of Guyana’s next national Education Sector Plan

ments and education data to identify learning gaps at an early stage and improve support for students. Particular attention is being given to students in hinterland and riverine communities, migrant populations and children with Special Education Needs and Disabilities

(SEND). The review is also examining measures to address violence and bul-

lying in schools as the ministry works to promote safer and more conducive learning environments for

students. Another key issue under discussion is securing sustainable financing to maintain the education reforms beyond the current implementation period. The review has brought together representatives of government ministries, regional education authorities, teachers, civil society and development partners, including the GPE, UNESCO-IIEP, Inter-American Development Bank, World Bank, UNICEF and CARICOM. The discussions are expected to help identify areas requiring further attention while informing the priorities and strategies of Guyana’s next Education Sector Plan.

Guyana-Colombia Chamber explores investment opportunities in public works THE Guyana-Colombia Chamber of Commerce is exploring investment and collaboration opportunities in Guyana’s expanding construction, recycling and infrastructural sectors following a meeting with Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill. The chamber delegation paid a courtesy call on Edghill, during which representatives outlined the areas of interest and technical capabilities of their members, while also examining potential avenues for Colombian companies to participate in Guyana’s ongoing development. Edghill used the engagement to explain Guyana’s public procurement framework and the procedures international companies must follow to participate in government-funded projects. The minister said the Government remains open to additional reliable suppliers and contractors entering the local market, noting that a broader pool of vendors could support quality standards and value for money in the execution of public infrastructure. He stressed, however, that foreign companies seeking opportunities in Guyana must comply fully with the country’s statutory and procurement requirements. Edghill highlighted the Procurement Act of 2003,

Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, in discussion with the chamber delegation during which representatives outlined the areas of interest and technical capabilities of their members, while also examining potential avenues for Colombian companies to participate in Guyana’s ongoing development which provides the legal framework governing public tenders and is intended to ensure transparency, fairness and accountability in government procurement. He also cautioned that public works contracts are highly competitive and encouraged the chamber ’s members to move beyond preliminary discussions and develop formal proposals that demonstrate how their expertise could meet identified needs in Guyana. “You are now in Guyana at a good time. We [Government] are finalising the budget for 2027,” Edghill told the delegation.

He encouraged the representatives to follow the budget process closely to identify areas where they could invest and contribute to national development. “Many delegations visit, but it is critical to move from conversations to formal proposals to determine how your expertise aligns with what Guyana needs,” the minister said. The meeting ended with both sides agreeing to maintain communication as the chamber’s members assess potential projects, develop proposals and monitor upcoming government tender opportunities.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 8, 2026

Minister Bharrat appointed to EITI Board to represent Guyana, LAC region

MINISTER of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, has been appointed to the Board of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), where he will represent Guyana and the wider Latin America and Caribbean region for the 2026–2029 term. Bharrat’s appointment was confirmed on October 6 while he was in Brussels, Belgium, participating in the 68th EITI Board meeting at the Centre Albert Borschette as part of activities surrounding the 2026 EITI Global Conference. The minister was first announced as the Principal Member of the EITI Implementing Country Constituency on June 30, paving the way for his appointment to the international board. In his new capacity, Bharrat is expected to contribute to discussions on transparency, accountability and governance in the extractive industries, including issues affecting resource-rich countries across the region. The 2026 EITI Global Conference, scheduled for October 8 and 9 in Brussels, brings together representatives of governments, the private sector, civil society and international organisations to examine ways of strengthening governance and transparency in the extractive sector. Bharrat is also scheduled to participate in a panel discussion titled “Golden opportunities: Securing shared benefits from

Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, has been appointed to the EITI Board where he will represent Guyana and the wider Latin America and Caribbean region for the 2026–2029 term artisanal and small-scale gold mining”, which will examine how artisanal and small-scale mining can generate more equitable benefits while supporting livelihoods and promoting responsible mining practices. The minister said Guyana’s participation in the international forum provides an opportunity to share the region’s experiences in natural resource governance while contributing to global efforts to strengthen transparency and accountability. “Our countries have different experiences, but we share a common responsibility to manage our natural resources

transparently and ensure that their benefits reach our people and communities,” Bharrat said. He added that EITI members must continue to identify practical measures to support livelihoods and strengthen accountability across the extractive sector. Bharrat’s appointment comes as Guyana continues to expand its extractive industries, particularly the oil and gas and gold-mining sectors, making issues of resource governance, transparency and equitable benefits increasingly important to national and regional policy discussions.

Woman arrested after suspected cannabis found at Georgetown Prison A WOMAN was arrested on Wednesday after prison authorities allegedly found a quantity of suspected cannabis concealed in a box she was attempting to deliver to an inmate at the Mazaruni Prison. The suspect, identified as Tachanna Henry, a resident of ‘C’ Field, Sophia, Georgetown, was intercepted at approximately 10:15 hours on October 7 during a visit to the Georgetown Prison. According to authorities, Henry was subjected to a search upon arrival at the correctional facility, during which officers discovered several plastic bags containing leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis. The woman was informed of the discovery and subsequently arrested. She was taken to the Alberttown Police Station along with the suspected narcotics, where investigations are continuing. The package was reportedly intended for prisoner

The prison authorities allegedly found a quantity of suspected cannabis concealed in a box she was attempting to deliver to an inmate at the Mazaruni Prison Kevon Alfred, who is currently housed at the Mazaruni location. Director of Prisons Nicklon Elliot warned members of the public against attempting to introduce prohibited items into correctional facilities, stressing that the smuggling of contraband into prisons constitutes a felony and carries serious consequences. Elliot urged civilians to

consider the potential risks to themselves, inmates, prison officers and wider society when engaging in the illicit trade of contraband within correctional facilities. He also commended the prison officers involved for their vigilance and prompt action, which resulted in the suspected contraband being intercepted before it entered the facility.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 8, 2026

25 women complete advanced WIIN training in designs, décor and events management TWENTY-FIVE women entrepreneurs have completed advanced training in designs, décor and events management under the Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN), gaining practical skills aimed at strengthening their businesses and expanding their income-earning opportunities. The Level 2 and 3 WIIN Designs, Décor & Events Management Training was held from September 25 to October

2 at the Guyana Women’s Leadership Institute (GWLI). The training provided participants with advanced practical skills in design, décor and events management, equipping them to improve the quality of their work, expand their entrepreneurial activities and develop more sustainable sources of income. The programme forms part of the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s ongoing ef-

The training provided participants with advanced practical skills in design, décor and events management, equipping them to improve the quality of their work, expand their entrepreneurial activities and develop more sustainable sources of income forts to support women’s ship. has continued to promote wards greater financial economic empowerment Minister of Human initiatives aimed at help- independence and sustainthrough skills develop- Services and Social Secu- ing women develop mar- able livelihoods. ment and entrepreneur- rity, Dr Vindhya Persaud, ketable skills and convert The latest cohort’s their creativity and exper- completion of the adtise into viable businesses. vanced training marks Through WIIN, the another step in efforts ministry is providing op- to equip women with portunities for women practical skills that can entrepreneurs to strength- be applied directly to en their capabilities while business development creating pathways to- and income generation.

WIN MPs attempt to hijack meeting for MV Barima survivors and bereaved families SURVIVORS and families of those who lost loved ones travelled long distances on Wednesday to the Arthur Chung Convention Centre to meet the commissioners investigating the MV Barima tragedy. They came, elders and many with small children, an estimated 120 individuals, to speak about what they endured, their loss, grief and their anguish. They deserved to be heard by the commissioners, but instead everyone was treated to a political performance. Five WIN parliamentarians, including the Leader of the Opposition, who had not been invited, imposed themselves on the gathering, turning a meeting intended for survivors and bereaved families into a platform for partisan attacks. None of them were aboard the vessel nor did they have any relatives on it, and yet they commandeered attention that belonged to families still living with the consequences of the tragedy. This was political opportunism at its crudest. Grief and sorrow became a backdrop for a crass message that displaced the very people the commissioners expected to hear from. What they got in return were blatant attacks on their integrity. Chairman of the COI Godfrey Phillip Smith said the

commission welcomes public scrutiny and invited the families present to hold it accountable. WIN MPs interpreted those words as a licence to dominate a gathering convened for people whose lives have been shattered. Throughout the three-hour meeting, the commissioners remained transparent, patient and caring. Their conduct stood in sharp contrast to the politicians who intruded. At the close, family members openly embraced the commissioners, some sobbing in their arms. Those encounters revealed the meeting’s human purpose, which was to allow people to be heard. The survivors and bereaved families should never have been subjected to the role of political props. Their suffering is not a campaign platform. Their opportunity to address the commissioners face to face on Wednesday was subordinated to political grandstanding. WIN’s representatives owed these families restraint and respect. Instead, they turned an encounter with the commission into a political circus. Their central goal was unmistakable: WIN’s MP and their leader placed their own message ahead of the voices of survivors and those still mourning their loved ones.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 8, 2026

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Thursday October 8, 2026) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) IND won by 8 wickets (2) Kuldeep Yadav (IND) Today’s Quiz: (1) What was the result of the second ODI in the recent WI/IND series? (2) Who took the Man of the Match prize? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

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Guardiola set to attend Man City v PSG next week PEP Guardiola is expected to attend Manchester City’s Champions League tie against Paris St-Germain next week - the club’s first home match since they were found guilty of the majority of the 115 charges brought against them by the Premier League. It will mark the first time the Spaniard has returned to Etihad Stadium since he left the club at the end of last season after a decade as manager. Earlier this month, an independent commission found the club guilty of all charges relating to breaches of the Premier League’s financial regulations between the 2009-10 and 2017-18 seasons. City continue to deny any wrongdoing and have lodged an appeal against the findings in the Premier League’s report that stated the club falsely inflated commercial revenues by £830m through “sham” contracts. In the aftermath of the verdict, 55-year-old Guardiola backed City’s owners and leadership and says he will “always” be behind the club.

Pep Guardiola won the Premier League six times as Manchester City manager

“I want every single Manchester City fan across the world to know I am here; more than ever,” he posted on social media. “I am, always have been, always will, be behind my club, my owner, my chairman, Ferran [Soriano], the players, staff, Enzo [Maresca] and you, our unique supporters. “Let me be clear: we will get through this together. I love you all.” City return to action after the three-week international break against Liverpool on Sunday (16:30 BST) in what promises to be a searing Premier League atmosphere

at Anfield. Enzo Maresca’s side then host Champions League holders PSG on Wednesday, 14 October when Guardiola is expected to watch from the Etihad stands. During Guardiola’s decade in charge of City, he led the club to six Premier League titles - including a record four in a row from 202021 - as well as the Champions League, three FA Cups and five League Cups. Prior to his departure, Guardiola spoke about the charges against City in November 2024 and said he “will be here” even if the club were relegated.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 8, 2026

Sourav Ganguly appointed Delhi Capitals head coach SOURAV Ganguly has been appointed the new head coach of Delhi Capitals ahead of IPL 2027. The former India captain replaces Hemang Badani, who held the position for the last two seasons. Ganguly has been associated with the Delhi Capitals franchise since 2019, when he joined as an advisor. Following his tenure as BCCI president, he was appointed Director of Cricket for both the men’s and women’s teams. More recently, he served as head coach of Pretoria Capitals, leading them to the SA20 final earlier this year. “I am looking forward to take on the role of Head Coach in the IPL. Delhi Capitals is a franchise very close to my heart, and one that I have shared a strong relationship with over the years,” Ganguly said. “I have worked closely with the owners, management, support staff and players, which makes this an exciting responsibility for me. We have a talented group and have played a good brand of cricket in the recent past. I am looking forward to working with the squad, the new season, and building a strong and fearless team.” Ganguly will be tasked

The former India captain Sourav Ganguly replaces Hemang Badani

with guiding Delhi Capitals to their first IPL title. One of only two original franchises Punjab Kings being the other - yet to win the competition, Delhi came closest in 2020 when they reached the final. They topped the table the following year but failed to progress to the final. They have not made the playoffs since that 2021 season and finished sixth last year under the Axar Patel-Hemang Badani combination. Under the franchise’s split ownership model, the JSW group will manage the Capitals for the next two years. JSW Sports founder Parth Jindal said he hoped Ganguly’s appointment would help the side mount a stronger challenge for the title. “Dada is and has always been an integral part of the Delhi Capitals family. I am

incredibly proud and honoured to announce that one of the greatest Indian captains and administrators is now stepping into coaching by taking over as the head coach of the Delhi Capitals. “I am excited to see him take on this role and I’m sure that under his guidance and visionary leadership Delhi Capitals will be best prepared to challenge for the IPL title. I cannot wait for all our players and staff to learn from Dada and am looking forward to seeing DC in action at the earliest.” Ganguly’s first task will be to finalise his support staff and plan the squad retentions before the November 15 deadline. The mini auction ahead of the 2027 season will be held in mid-December in Goa. (Cricbuzz)

‘Grateful, proud and at peace’ - emotional Messi plays... (From back page) “I have nothing left to do but thank this shirt,” continued Messi. “For 20 years, even through the worst moments, I

never stopped fighting, pushing forward, giving everything I had and wanting to be here. “Not coming here any-

more and no longer being with the Argentina national team is going to hurt a lot. If it were up to me, I would love to be here for my entire life,

because playing for Argentina is the most beautiful thing there is. “I think I’m talking more than ever today because I simply don’t want this moment to end. “But I think the time has come for me to retire. The last World Cup took a lot out of us after everything we went through. We arrived in the final with just enough left in us, but we fought until the very end, like we always did. “We came very close to winning it again, and despite everything that was said about us, nothing strange happened. The match against England took a lot out of us because we gave absolutely everything. “In 2022, we had the

dream of fulfilling not only my dream, but the dream of an entire country: becoming world champions again. And we did it.” Messi’s career will continue at club level with Major League Soccer team Inter Miami, with whom he has a contract that runs to the end of the 2028 season. On a night of celebrations from start to finish in the Argentine capital, Messi was often seen to be visibly moved by the occasion. The former Barcelona and Paris St-Germain forward was filmed wiping away tears on the coach journey to the ground and again appeared overcome by emotion during a rousing rendition of the country’s national anthem.

Before kick-off a spectacular firework display greeted the players on to the pitch, while a giant Argentina shirt - bearing Messi’s iconic number 10 and the word ‘gracias’ (thank you) - was sprawled across the field. Ten minutes into the game, play was then brought to a halt for yet more fireworks, another standing ovation for Messi and handshakes from every Benin player. Once the fanfare subsided, Messi was typically at the heart of everything going forward for Argentina, seeing two free-kicks well saved, twice missing glorious chances from inside the six-yard box and then hitting the post in the closing stages.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 8, 2026

Temba Bavuma: ‘When you play Australia, you play against what it means to be Australian’ THERE are big series and then there are ‘Big’ series. South Africa, noses pressed against the glass, seldom get the latter. But in this WTC cycle, they play all three of the high-profile teams. They have already beaten India in India, and will now host Australia and later England in what promises to be a bumper summer that could prove career-defining for several South Africa players, including captain Temba Bavuma. A South Africa-Australia clash is the biggest outside the Big Three and, you could argue, more competitive. It is characterised by hostile bowling, gritty batting, big personalities, and the ability to win away from home. In the last 20 years, the two sides have played nine series against each other, with a 4-4 result margin.

South Africa have won three away series and one at home, while Australia have won two each home and away; the 2011-12 series in South Africa was drawn. Their most recent meeting was in the 2025 WTC final, which South Africa won. Naturally, they can’t wait for more. “When you play against Australia, you don’t just play against those individuals, you play against what it means to be Australian,” Bavuma says. “It’s always a clash we look forward to. It tends to at least bring out the competitive edge of both teams. We have a strong desire to get the better of them. “We give them a lot of respect but we also take confidence in that we’ve been able to get the better of them. The respect lies in the fact that they’ve been very dominant

Another WTC trophy in sight: With South Africa sitting at No. 2 on the Championship table, they have a good chance of defending their title (ICC/Getty Images)

over the years. On the field itself, there will be massive moments and massive clashes. Their batting attack, our bowling attack, their bowling attack versus what our batting attack can do - there’s opportunities for guys to take each other on and really make the play for the team. The WTC final showed that.” That match also showed what it means to come up against a South African team. Belittled for making it to the final without playing in any of the Big Three nations in the 2023-2025 cycle, a largely unheralded team, with only Kagiso Rabada as a bona fide superstar, overcame a first-innings deficit of 74 and an injury to Bavuma that could have been decisive to successfully chase down the second-highest total at Lord’s.

Neville Sarjoo Memorial T20 tourney set Durham bowler Ghafari extends contract DURHAM leg-spin bowler to bowl off Saturday Shafiqullah Ghafari has By Sean Devers Six teams will vie for the inaugural Neville Sarjoo Memorial T20 tourney with matches scheduled for the Everest ground in the Georgetown and the Joe Jagmohan groundHampton Court on the Essequibo Coast. The late Sarjoo was a former national cricket Selector, President of the East Bank Demerara Cricket Association while in the 1980s he staged the Neville Sarjoo U-16 tournament. He was shot and killed during a robbery at his busi-

ness place 1998. He was 51. D Lall and Sons, International Imports and Supplies, Invaders Masters, Everest Masters, Jai Hind and East Coast Masters are team vying for top honours. Fixtures - Saturday October 10 at -Joe Jagmohan ground- Hampton Court at 12pm D. Lall and Sons vs Invaders Masters Sunday October 11 at Joe Jagmohan groundHampton Court at 12pm International Imports and Supplies vs D Lall and Sons Saturday October 10 at

The late Neville Sarjoo

Everest at 12pm Jai Hind vs East Coast Masters Sunday October 11 at Everest at 12pm Everest Masters vs East Coast Masters

Smriti Mandhana named India’s... (From page 22) The T20I squad includes a new-comer in the form of Niki Prasad. The 20-yearold right-handed batter from Karnataka, who bats in the middle order, has played seven innings for Delhi Capitals in the WPL, scoring 153 runs. She recently featured in the series against Australia A, scoring half-centuries in all three formats: 91 in the one-off three-day game, 76 in the

third one-day match, along with an unbeaten 54 not out off 31 balls in the second T20 earlier in the series. The T20I squad also sees the return of Anushka Sharma, who has represented India in the 20-over format in three matches - against South Africa earlier in the year. Anushka, who plays for Gujarat Giants in the WPL, has 177 runs in seven innings. She recently played

the series against Australia A, scoring three successive fifties in the one-day matches. Jemimah Rodrigues, who is recovering from a hamstring injury sustained during The Hundred, continues her recovery. Shreyanka Patil, Renuka Singh Thakur, Radha Yadav and Bharti Fulmali, who featured in the squad in India’s gold-medal-winning Asian Games

signed a one-year contract extension to keep him at the club for the 2027 season. The 24-year-old made 10 appearances in the One-Day Cup to help Durham reach the semi-final in the 2026 campaign. He took career-best figures of 4-36 against Lancashire at Old Trafford in August and ended the season as the club’s leading wicket-taker in the competition with 16. Ghafari, who was born in Afghanistan but successfully claimed asylum in England, only featured once in Durham’s County Championship Division Two promotion success - in the final

game against Lancashire. But he also took 65 wickets in 23 games for Richmondshire in the North Yorkshire and South Durham Premier League in 2026. “I have enjoyed being part of this team over the last couple of years and contrib-

uting when I can,” Ghafari told the Durham club website., external “It was great to play a part in the One-Day Cup and hopefully I can continue to take wickets for Durham across all formats into next season.”

campaign, miss out from the T20I squad for the Zimbabwe series. Niki, Anushka, Prema Rawat, Jintimani Kalita and Minnu Mani are the inclusions. Renuka has been included for the 50-over games while Tejal Hasabnis, who scored two fifties in the oneday series against Australia A, returns to the ODI squad. The 29-year-old middle order batter, who has six ODI appearances, last featured for India in the ODI against Ireland in January 2025.

Yastika Bhatia, Nandni Sharma and Sayali Satghare are the other additions to the ODI squad, while Uma Chetry, Kashvee Gautam, Sneh Rana and Amanjot Kaur, who were part of India’s squad for the ODI series against Australia at the start of the year, are the exclusions along with Rodrigues. India’s T20I squad: Smriti Mandhana (C), Shafali Verma (VC), Niki Prasad, Harmanpreet Kaur, Anushka Sharma, Richa Ghosh (WK), G Kamalini (WK), Deep-

ti Sharma, Prema Rawat, Sree Charani, Nandni Sharma, Kranti Gaud, Arundhati Reddy, Jintimani Kalita, Minnu Mani. India’s ODI squad: Smriti Mandhana (C), Shafali Verma, Pratika Rawal, Harmanpreet Kaur, Harleen Deol, Tejal Hasabnis, Deepti Sharma (VC), Richa Ghosh (WK), Yastika Bhatia (WK), Vaishnavi Sharma, Nandni Sharma, Sree Charani, Kranti Gaud, Sayali Satghare, Renuka Thakur. (Cricbuzz)

Shafiqullah Ghafari has represented Afghanistan Under-19s

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 8, 2026

Ex-Spurs player Vega set to run for Fifa president FORMER Tottenham Hotspur defender Ramon Vega says he intends to stand as a candidate in next year’s Fifa presidential election. The 55-year-old is the first person to confirm they want to challenge Gianni Infantino, who has defied calls to step down in the wake of his failed plan to sell off stakes in the World Cup to private investors, which has sparked a major backlash across football. A former Switzerland centre-back, Vega also played for Celtic and Watford and has worked in finance since retiring from football in 2004. “I am standing to reunite the global football family, deliver genuine and lasting reform, modernise Fifa for the 21st Century, restore stability and credibility, and re-

build the trust that our game urgently needs,” he said. Meanwhile, Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa - president of the Asian Football Confederation - has written to Infantino, distancing himself from an external review of Fifa’s governance system. In his letter - seen by BBC Sport - Sheikh Salman proposes that Fifa’s council sets up a working group to examine potential reforms, “rather than being outsourced to an external party”. Last month, Infantino said he was “fully committed to leading Fifa” despite Uefa, Concacaf and the Asian Football Confederation calling for him to quit. Vega considered running for Fifa’s top job in 2015 following the suspension of former president Sepp Blatter.

Ramon Vega made 23 appearances for Switzerland between 1993 and 2001

Four years later he said he would stand against Infantino, but failed to garner enough support to be included in the ballot, having required the backing of five of Fifa’s 211 member federations. Candidates must also be

proposed by a member association and played an active role in the game for two of the past five years, as well as passing an eligibility check by a review committee. “I am standing because my life has prepared me to serve the game,” Vega said

in a statement announcing his candidacy. “Football does not belong to presidents, confederations or administrators. Football is greater than any position, any individual or any institution. “It is the people’s game and belongs to everyone: the players, coaches, referees, supporters, volunteers, clubs, leagues, associations and communities that give football its life. “It belongs to every child discovering the game, every professional carrying the hopes of a nation, and the billions of supporters whose passion makes football the world’s game. “Football must always come first. Yet for too long, division has fractured our football family. “The current leadership has demoralised the game. Weak governance has dam-

aged Fifa’s credibility and eroded trust across the global football family. We must stop this conflict from escalating. “Ego-driven battles within football administration must never be allowed to damage those who matter most: the players, coaches, referees and supporters around the world. They are not responsible for these conflicts. They deserve better.” Vega concluded: “Football is in the emergency room, on life support. We cannot wait any longer. Fifa needs a new direction and fundamental reform. “We must reunite the football family, restore trust, bring stability and modernise Fifa’s governance. This requires decisive change - not cosmetic adjustments.”

Australia warm-up shows England have ‘learned’ from Ashes ENGLAND have “learned” from the mistakes of their Ashes defeat in booking a 50-over warm-up before their white-ball tour of Australia this winter, says England and Wales Cricket Board chair Richard Thompson. Brendon McCullum’s white-ball side will play a Western Australia XI at the Waca in Perth on 7 November, six days before their one-day international series begins. The Test team were heavily criticised for only having one in-house warm-up before last winter’s dismal 4-1 Ashes defeat. “There is a lot that was learned,” said Thompson. “You have to remember these decisions are taken so far ahead.

“The reality is in those decisions, mistakes were made and we’ve corrected that now.” McCullum, who has since been sacked as Test coach but remains in charge of the white-ball sides, admitted during the Ashes that mistakes may have been made with preparation. Their warm-up was played against the Lions at club ground Lilac Hill, where conditions where vastly different to the first-Test venue, Optus Stadium. There, England lost inside two days enroute to conceding the series at the earliest opportunity. At the time, the ECB said it had been told the Waca was unavailable. England are also due to play warm-ups before their

Test tours of South Africa and Bangladesh this winter, and before the one-off 150th anniversary Test against Australia in Melbourne in March. Those fixtures were in place before McCullum was replaced by Stephen Fleming as Test coach this summer. Since the Ashes, the ECB and Cricket Australia have also agreed a reciprocal arrangement that would mean touring teams are provided with better preparation before Ashes series. “These things are codified and in an agreement, so we’re not relying on goodwill,” said Thompson, speaking at an event at Lord’s to launch a new initiative to boost participation in state schools. “It can’t be a situation where a board chair or CEO

England’s 50-over side began 2026 by winning in Sri Lanka and beat the same opponents and India at home this summer

move on and the goodwill falls away. “It’s important the Ashes

has the best prep for both teams, the best wickets and the best facilities.

Smriti Mandhana named India’s new captain SMRITI Mandhana has been appointed as the new captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, the BCCI announced on Tuesday (October 6), hours after Harmanpreet Kaur stepped down from the role earlier in the day. Mandhana, who has been part of the Indian team since 2013, has previously led India in 22 white-ball matches. She has also captained Roy-

al Challengers Bengaluru to Women’s Premier League titles in 2024 and 2026, adding to her leadership credentials across formats. She has led India in 18 T20Is, winning 11 and losing six, with one match ending without a result. She has a perfect record in ODIs, having won all four games she captained. In the WPL, she has led RCB in 35 matches, with 18 wins and

17 defeats. “To be given the responsibility of leading India is a very special honour. Representing India has always meant a great deal to me, and to now have the opportunity to lead the team is something I will value deeply. I understand the responsibility that comes with this role and look forward to working with the team, learning along the way and

Shafali Verma will be Mandhana’s deputy in T20Is

giving my best to take Indian Cricket forward.”

Meanwhile, Harmanpreet remains part of both

“That’s something you will see going forward for both teams.” squads for India’s series against Zimbabwe. Shafali Verma has been named vice-captain for the threematch T20I series, while Deepti Sharma will serve as Mandhana’s deputy in the ODIs. The Women’s Selection Committee has retained a strong core for the series, with the three T20Is to be played in Raipur on October 16, 18 and 20, followed by three ODIs in Vadodara on October 23, 25 and 28. (Turn to page 21)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 8, 2026

Taylor’s all-round effort helps Windies sweep Zimbabwe HARARE, Zimbabwe, (CMC) — West Indies veteran Stafanie Taylor etched her name into the history books on Wednesday, becoming only the fourth woman to complete the double of 3,000 T20I runs and 100 wickets, as the regional women crushed Zimbabwe by eight wickets to complete a clean 3-0 series sweep here on Wednesday. Taylor’s historic moment came with the ball, but her all-round brilliance defined the match at the Takashinga Sports Club. After Zimbabwe elected

to bat, the hosts looked set for a competitive total before Taylor intervened. The Zimbabwean innings was anchored by opener Kelis Ndhlovu, who scored her fifth T20I half-century. Ndhlovu struck a fluent 63 off just 48 deliveries, peppering the boundary with six fours and three sixes. She guided Zimbabwe to 40 for 1 in the powerplay, but the introduction of Taylor changed the complexion of the game immediately. Taylor struck with just her second delivery, having Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano stumped by Mandy Mangru

for seven to claim her 100th T20I wicket. She later returned to trap Chiedza Dhururu lbw for nine, finishing with remarkable figures of 2 for 8 from her four overs. Supported by Jahzara Claxton (2 for 35), the West Indies bowlers restricted the hosts despite a late surge. A 40-run stand off 27 balls between Ndhlovu and Christine Mutasa helped Zimbabwe post 142 for 6, taking 41 runs off the final four overs. In response, Claxton led the charge with a composed 38 off 37 balls at the top of the innings. However, it

Stafanie Taylor led the West Indies with both ball and bat in Harare

was her 71-run partnership with Taylor for the second wicket that killed the game

as a contest. Opener Realeanna Grimmond chipped in with 17, but

Taylor took control of the chase. The major difference between the two sides was the middle overs (overs 7 to 16). While Zimbabwe managed only 61 for 3 during that phase, West Indies plundered 85 runs for the loss of just Claxton, who was bowled by Beloved Biza. Taylor finished unbeaten on 64 off just 39 balls, an innings laced with 11 boundaries. She and Janillea Glasgow (15 not out) put on an unbroken 53-run stand for the third wicket to see the West Indies home with 18 balls to spare.

Barbados remain unbeaten, Bonaire Matthews reaches career-best ODI batting, all-rounder rankings earns first win BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, (CMC) – Barbados kept their unbeaten streak alive, while Bonaire finally secured their first win in League B action when the CONCACAF Nations League continued on Monday. Barbados registered a hard-fought come-from-behind 2-1 win over the winless Bermuda thanks to a brace from Thierry Gale at the BFA’s Technical Centre to assume top spot in Group B. After a goalless first half, the game sprung to life in the second period when Bermuda’s Djair Parfitt found the back of the net in the 75th minute. However, Barbados took just four minutes to respond, with Gale scoring from the middle of the box to level the score at 1-1. He then completed the comeback in the 82nd minute to propel Barbados to 10 points from their four matches and top of Group B. Meanwhile, Saint Lucia solidified their place in second position with a 1-0 win

Thierry Gale scored a brace for Barbados against Bermuda

over Guadeloupe to move to nine points. The only goal of the night came early on after Kegan Caull controlled the ball in the box and fired home a powerful shot from close range. In Trinidad, Bonaire recorded their first win in Group C with a clinical 4-1 victory over Grenada at the Hasely Crawford Stadium. Benjamin Ettienne put Grenada in the lead in the

11th minute, before goals from Railey Martijn in the 13th minute, Berry Sonnenscheinin in the 59th, Myron Bostdorp in the 67th and Ayrton Cicilia in the 83rd minute, put Bonaire in complete control. In the night’s other match, Cuba and St Kitts & Nevis battled to a 2-2 draw to leave both teams on eight points, with Cuba assuming the top spot in Group C on goal difference.

Hayley Matthews (right) scored two centuries in three ODIs against Zimbabwe to move up in the ICC’s Women’s rankings

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, ( CMC) – West Indies Women’s captain Hayley Matthews has achieved career-best rankings in the ICC’s Women’s ODI batting and all-rounder rankings following her impressive performance in the just concluded series against Zimbabwe Women. Matthews scored an incredible 326 runs in the threematch series – inclusive of two centuries – at an astonishing average of 108.66 to claim the Player-of-the-Series award, as West Indies emerged 2-1 winners.

Those performances have seen the 28-year-old climb to fourth in the batting rankings and second among all-rounders. Batting rankings, Matthews’s 731 points leave her behind only Indian lefthander Smriti Mandhana (790 points), South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt (782) and Australia opener Beth Mooney (744). Meanwhile, Matthews – the number one ranked T20 all-rounder in the world – reached a new career-best mark of 467 rating points to close the gap on the number

one ranked Ash Gardner (497 points) to just 30 rating points among ODI all-rounders. Several other West Indies Women also jumped in the rankings following commendable performances in the series. Wicketkeeper/batter Shemaine Campbelle moved up 15 spots to 74th in the batting rankings, while Afy Fletcher (up two places to 17th), Aaliyah Alleyne (up eight rungs to 49th) and Ashmini Munisar (up 11 slots to 70th) all made ground on the charts for ODI bowlers.

‘Grateful, proud and at peace’ - emotional Messi plays final Argentina game LIONEL Messi says he is “grateful, proud and at peace” after his glittering Argentina career ended with a goal against Benin on an emotional night in Buenos Aires. The 39-year-old, playing his 208th and final international game, converted a second-half penalty and registered two assists in a comfortable 3-0 friendly win. Messi, who announced

his international retirement in August, was playing his first game for Argentina since the death of his father, Jorge, aged 68 following a long illness. After the match he addressed the crowd with a speech spanning nearly 10 minutes, with some of his team-mates - including Manchester City’s Enzo Fernandez - in tears as Messi admitted he did not want to leave

the field. “There are so many emotions going through me right now,” he said. “I’m surely forgetting many things I would like to say because this is a very difficult moment for me. The first person who comes to my mind is my dad. “I leave grateful, proud and at peace. Thank you for everything.” Messi played the full 90 minutes before the

Lionel Messi ended his Argentina career with 126 goals in 208 appearances

85,000-strong sell-out crowd inside the Monumental were treated to a laser light show, live music and presentations. When he made his announcement in August, Messi said the decision to retire “hurt” but that “the time has come”. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner said he had written his retirement message on 21 July, two days after Argentina lost to Spain in this

summer’s World Cup final. Messi made his debut for Argentina in 2005 as a 63rd-minute substitute in a 2-1 friendly win over Hungary. However, he was shown a straight red card less than a minute later, after he swung his arm and his elbow connected with full-back Vilmos Vanczak. Despite his tough start on the international stage, Messi went on to become

one of the all-time greats, winning the World Cup and two Copa America titles with Argentina. He is the second-highest goalscorer in World Cup history, with 21, behind France’s Kylian Mbappe (22), and second for goals in all internationals (126) behind his great contemporary and rival, Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo (146). (Turn to page 20)

MSC, DCC to ‘Revive The Rivalry’ in Andrew Lyght Unity Cup By Frederick Halley OVER the years, more so in the 1980s-1990s, two of Guyana’s top cricket clubs, Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC) and Demerara Cricket Club (DCC), produced rivalries that were perhaps second to none on the local scene. Despite those rivalries, players from both clubs also became acquaintances while on and off the field of play. Through the efforts of the Dodson family, who are staunch associates/past players of MSC, that rivalry will be renewed with the staging of the Andrew Lyght Unity Cup. Plans for the staging of the tournament were disclosed at Tuesday’s launching, held at the MSC pavilion on Thomas Lands, Georgetown. Dubbed “Revive The Rivalry,” the annual 40-over feature is slated to commence at the DCC ground in Queenstown following the completion of the International Masters Cricket (IMC) Over40 World Cup, set to start in Guyana on October 17. The

Two members of MSC and DCC pose with the Unity Cup in the presence of, from left, Dr. Linden Dodson, Shaquille Williams (MSC), Roger Harper, Sean Devers and Colwyn Cort

venues will then alternate in succeeding years. According to Dr. Linden Dodson, his family is prepared to donate $1M (Guyana) per year for the tournament with the two teams and the organisers working together to decide on the modalities.

Dodson further pointed out that any other sponsors, whether from the two clubs or outsiders, are welcome on board. Junior Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Steven Jacobs, himself a past member of MSC, commended the Dodson family for the great

initiative, pointing out that they have been contributing to the development of MSC over the years and still continue to do so. According to Minister Jacobs, while the initiative is very appreciated, he called for support for other cricketers who would have made

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significant contributions to the game. The minister pointed out that the late no-nonsense opener was called ‘Monster’ for his aggressive batting style and called on young cricketers to emulate him. In reference to journalist and former MSC player, Sean

Devers, who chaired yesterday’s proceedings, that both clubs produced Ministers of Sports, the other being the late Roy Fredericks (DCC), Minister Jacobs jokingly said he may come out of retirement to play in the feature after earlier pointing out that he wasn’t in the same calibre of Fredericks who donned whites while being a Minister to register a First Class double hundred versus Jamaica at Bourda. Lyght, who represented Guyana and the West Indies B team, died on April 16, 2001, just shy of his 45th birthday. He played in 38 First Class and 17 List A matches for Guyana and Demerara. Among others at the launching of the tournament were former Guyana and West Indies player and current DCC Vice-President Roger Harper, former MSC and National fast bowler Colwyn Cort, who is visiting from England, Attorney Emily Dodson, Dillon Moffat, a member of the Dodson family and a few players from both clubs.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2026