Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 10-07-2026

–– President Ali says in response to Azruddin’s ‘misrepresentations’, ‘lies’ –– maintains records, declarations available to substantiate his

First Lady launches Phase Five of ‘Adopt an Orphanage’ Initiative

‘Regardless of the result, head into that journey with

–– Minister Parag tells pupils ahead of NGSA results announcement

EPA, MARAD dismiss reports of Gas-to-Energy pipeline rupture

THE Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) have dismissed media reports alleging that the natural gas pipeline supplying the 300-megawatt Gas-to-Energy facility at Wales, West Bank Demerara (WBD), has ruptured.

The clarification follows the circulation of a report by Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed, who is under United States sanctions and faces criminal charges in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida

The EPA and MARAD maintained that the pipeline is inactive and that their investigation found only “a slight anomaly,” which has been thoroughly examined

In a joint statement issued on Thursday, the two

agencies said the claims are without factual basis, explaining that the pipeline is not currently in operation.

“The pipeline in question is not currently active, and no gas is flowing through it,” the agencies stated.

“As there is no gas passing through the line, there can be no leak or damage of the nature suggested in these reports.”

The EPA and MARAD explained that ExxonMobil Guyana has been conducting a scheduled inspection of the subsea pipeline since May 2026, an exercise expected to

continue for approximately three months.

According to the statement, the inspection programme involves five vessels operating along the West Coast of Demerara and had been announced in advance through a public notice issued by MARAD. Mariners and members of the public were advised about the activity before it commenced.

The agencies also confirmed that they had received a report relating to the pipeline and conducted a joint investigation.

“Following the joint assessment, the matter was determined to be a

slight anomaly, which was thoroughly investigated by both agencies,” the statement said.

They added that, as a precautionary measure, additional inspections are being carried out to verify the continued integrity of the pipeline in keeping with standard safety protocols.

The EPA and MARAD

reaffirmed their commitment to transparency and to protecting public and environmental safety throughout the implementation of the Gas-to-Energy Project.

The agencies also urged the public to rely on official sources for information before accepting reports that could unnecessarily alarm residents of West Bank Demerara.

“Both agencies will continue to provide accurate, timely updates to the public and urge that facts be verified through official channels before conclusions are drawn that could cause unnecessary alarm among residents of West Bank Demerara,” the statement added.

ANSA McAL brings ‘We Are the ANSA’ employee campaign to Guyana

ANSA McAL has officially launched its We Are the ANSA employee brand campaign in Guyana following its successful debut in Trinidad in January 2026.

The launch, according to a press release, reinforces the Group’s long-standing

Growing With Guyana commitment, celebrating more than 30 years of investing in the country’s businesses, people, and future.

Held on Saturday, May 16 at the Police Officers’ Mess Annex in Georgetown, the launch brought together 400+ employees from

across the Group’s Guyana operations, including ANSA Motors Guyana, Mix FM, ANSA McAL Distribution Inc., Guyana Breweries Inc., ANSA Building Solutions Guyana, and the ANSA McAL Real Estate

See page 3

‘My conscience is clear’

–– President Ali says in response to Azruddin’s ‘misrepresentations’, ‘lies’ –– maintains records, declarations available to substantiate his investments

PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali says he has “absolutely nothing to hide” surrounding his farming investments, as his “conscience is clear.”

The President maintained his position and transparency while dismissing allegations surrounding his farm, and accusing businessman Azruddin Mohamed of attempting to blackmail him.

Speaking during a live address on Thursday, President Ali said the existence of his farm was never a secret and described recent claims that it had been “discovered” as deliberately misleading.

“Let me once again be very clear. My farm is not a discovery. It is public information,” the President said.

He maintained that the farm had long been known to the public, including Mohamed himself, adding that its existence could be verified through established agricultural entities.

Responding to claims made by Mohamed, Ali said the US-indicted Opposition Leader had exaggerated both the size and value of the property.

“The size of the farm is not even half of what he said it is,” the President asserted, adding that he wished the invest-

ment was even “20 per cent” of the value being claimed.

NO SPECIAL TREATMENT

The President said every dollar invested in the farm could be traced through legitimate financing.

“My farm carries a huge loan, a huge loan, and everything has been disclosed to the Integrity Commission in and out of government. There is absolutely nothing to hide,” he said.

Dr Ali also made it clear that he has never received any special treatment from the State, stressing that his lease is governed by the same rules that apply to every other farmer occupying leased lands along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway.

“I have not sought any special treatment, any benefit or any investment by the State… Every single condition governing leased lands on the highway applies equally to my lands,” he said.

The President contrasted his circumstances with those of Mohamed, pointing to allegations and sanctions against the Opposition Leader.

“Unlike Azruddin Mo-

President, Dr Irfaan Ali

hamed, who still has to account to the Integrity Commission, unlike him, who did not have to take a single loan for the wealth he accumulated, everything on my farm can be accounted for through legitimate means,” Dr Ali said.

The President also criticised what he described as hypocrisy by persons and organisations that had previously questioned Mohamed’s conduct but were now presenting him as a credible source.

“Imagine Azruddin Mohamed speaking about credibility and integrity.

A man who is accused of murder, smuggling, beating people, kidnapping

people, robbing the state and the people of Guyana of hundreds of billions of dollars. A man who has been indicted by a grand jury in the United States of America.

“Imagine, this is the man of conscience, the transparency bodies, many of whom, Kiskadees and others, who wrote headlines about his involvement, who accused me of protecting him, who accused the government of protecting him,” he said.

BLACKMAIL CLAIMS

President Ali also revealed that he has continued receiving messages which he believes amount to attempts at

intimidation.

He disclosed that, as recently as last Friday, he received a text message warning him to “end all this madness” while also being sent an audio recording purportedly involving another individual.

“I know nothing about it, absolutely nothing about it,” he said.

According to the President, some of the material sent to him carries possible security implications, while others appear aimed at creating political mischief.

He rejected accusations that his government was responsible for Mohamed’s legal troubles, reiterating that the charges and sanctions stem from actions taken by US authorities.

“I have a duty and responsibility. The madness is not Irfaan Ali’s madness,” he said.

Dr Ali rejected suggestions that his administration was responsible for the legal difficulties facing Mohamed.

“These charges and sanctions did not come from Irfaan Ali. They did not come from the PPP/C Government. They came from the United States of America, and I have a duty and responsibility,” he said.

‘PROUD

TO BE A FARMER’

Despite the controversy, Dr Ali said he remained proud of his agricultural work and intended to use it to educate Guyanese about modern farming.

“I am proud. You can call me a farmer. It’s a title I hold with honour because I am proud of everything I have done, and my conscience is clear,” he declared.

The President said he intends to conduct live broadcasts from the farm in the coming weeks to allow the public to see its operations firsthand.

“When I’m back at the farm, I’ll go live. I want people to learn. I want people to see directly from me the misrepresentation, the mischief, the deception and the lies,” he said.

He ended his remarks by reaffirming that his administration would remain focused on governance rather than political distractions.

“This People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government, this President, will continue to work relentlessly every single day for the people of this country. I’m not interested in the sideshows and the distractions,” Ali said.

ANSA McAL brings ‘We Are the ANSA’ employee campaign ...

sector.

Speaking on the continued regional expansion of the initiative, Group CEO Anthony N. Sabga III said: “We Are the ANSA is a core pillar of the Group’s reimagined Human Resources strategy, designed to attract future talent while showcasing our culture. As we expand the campaign across the region, we are reinforcing what unites us, our shared purpose, our commitment to excellence and the incredible people

who bring our business to life every day.”

Troy Cadogan, Managing Director, ANSA McAL Distribution Inc., and Head of External Affairs Guyana added: “The launch of We Are the ANSA in Guyana is more than a campaign; it is a celebration of our people and the values that unite us. For over three decades, ANSA McAL has grown alongside Guyana, investing in businesses and communities. Today, we reaffirm that our

greatest investment is in our employees, whose talent, creativity and commitment continue to drive our success and strengthen our partnership with this country’s future.”

The We Are the ANSA campaign celebrates the people behind the ANSA McAL Group, sharing authentic employee stories that showcase what it means to build a career within one of the Caribbean’s most diversified companies.

Through these stories,

the campaign highlights opportunities for growth, collaboration, innovation and career development across the Group’s businesses and markets.

The Guyana launch began with an immersive orientation experience, where employees explored the history of ANSA McAL across the Caribbean and in Guyana, reflected on the Group’s purpose, vision and values, and met members of both the Group and Guyana leadership

teams.

The programme gave employees a deeper understanding of the organisation’s legacy, strategic direction and the shared principles that guide its stewardship across the region.

The day concluded with the inaugural Guyana Games, a series of friendly team-building activities including tug-of-war, sack races, musical chairs and karaoke.

The event encouraged

collaboration, strengthened relationships across companies and celebrated the vibrant culture that defines the ANSA McAL Group.

The Guyana launch reinforces ANSA McAL’s commitment to building a consistent, people-first culture across its regional operations while highlighting the employees whose passion and dedication continue to drive the Group’s success throughout the Caribbean.

Former Presidents’ benefits bill replicates 2009 law, ensures equal treatment – AG Nandlall

ATTORNEY General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, SC, has noted that the Former Presidents’ Benefits and Other Facilities Bill 2026 is intended to ensure equal treatment for all former Heads of State and does not introduce any new benefits.

Speaking during his Is -

sues in the News programme on Tuesday, the attorney general rejected criticisms of the proposed legislation, saying its purpose has been deliberately misrepresented.

“I see in certain political quarters that a deliberate campaign has been deployed designed to mislead, distort, and scandalise the Former

President’s Benefits and Other Facilities Bill of 2026,” he said.

The attorney general explained that the bill mirrors the Former Presidents’ Benefits and Other Facilities Act of 2009.

“First, the bill is simply a replication of the Former President’s Benefits and Other Facilities Act of 2009. There has been absolutely no material addition to or subtraction therefrom,” he stated.

He further stated that the 2009 legislation was enacted to formally establish benefits for former Presidents, replacing an arrangement that had no legislative backing and could have been altered by any sitting government.

Nandlall argued that the APNU+AFC administration repealed the 2009 Act in 2015, but its replacement law could not remove benefits already vested in former Presidents because it did not apply retrospectively.

“They passed a law that they told the people would rescind all the benefits that former Presidents were get-

ting, but the law could not operate retroactively. So, the law had no teeth,” he said.

The legal affairs minister also referenced the Hamilton Green Pension Bill passed in 2017, arguing that it granted similar benefits to a former Prime Minister decades after he left office.

He maintained that the

2026 bill seeks to restore parity among all former Presidents, regardless of political affiliation.

“The 2026 Bill is intended to restore the dignity to the office of a former President and to bring certainty and equity to the entitlements of that office to ensure that all former holders of that office enjoy equal treatment,” Nandlall said.

He rejected claims that the legislation is intended to benefit President Dr Ali, stressing that it would apply equally to all former Presidents, including former President David Granger and future office holders.

“What we have done here is a package that will apply to all former Presidents,” Nandlall added. (DPI)

New $17M pavilion to fuel sports in Waramuri Village

RESIDENTS of Waramuri Village, Moruca Sub-District, Region One, are set to benefit from a newly constructed $17 million pavilion to enhance sporting activities, youth development and community engagements.

The facility was funded through the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) following a project proposal by the Village Council.

Additional upgrades to the area were made possible

through a $10 million commitment from President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali during his visit to the community in 2024.

During an interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI) on Wednesday, Toshao of Waramuri Village, Vivan Edwards, said the investment is timely, given the community’s strong sporting background and the role sports continue to play in the resident’s lives.

“Waramuri in general is a

sports-oriented community. We have produced local and international sportsmen and women. We promote sports in our various disciplines, and this investment will help us to continue providing opportunities for our young people,” Toshao Edwards said.

The toshao pointed to several athletes from the community who have represented Guyana, including footballer Annalisa Vincent and cricketer Bruce Vincent, who played at the Under-15

and Under-19 levels, as examples of the talent emerging from Waramuri.

He explained that the pavilion will provide improved seating accommodation for residents and visitors attending sporting events, while also serving as a venue for other community activities.

“The benefit is very significant because whenever we have sporting activities, we now have enough seating accommodation for people to come and enjoy whatever game is being played, whether it is during the day or at night.

The school also utilises the facility for its activities, and the community as a whole benefits from it,” the toshao said.

The facility is expected to support the local sports club’s work while providing a suitable space for village meetings, community gatherings and other events.

Toshao Edwards said residents have welcomed the project’s completion, noting that the initiative demonstrates the importance of proper planning and accountability when utilising public resources.

“The feeling in general is that it is a great initiative that we have embarked on and completed. We had this plan,

and the plan was successfully executed. There is evidence there, and we have accounted accurately for the funding in a transparent way,” he said.

He added that the pavilion will be remembered as an important development for the village and its future generations.

The village leader also acknowledged the support provided through various government programmes, noting that collaboration has been important in advancing development in Waramuri.

“The evidence is there that we have been supported

by the government, and it is for us now to make maximum use of whatever resources have been given to us. We have benefited from LCDS, other projects and different programmes, and it is good working collaboratively with the government,” Toshao Edwards said.

The additional works included the construction of a $5 million bleacher, a $4 million sanitary facility and $1 million in signboards showcasing the village’s landmarks, sporting achievements and tourism potential.(DPI)

Diaspora Engagement

AS Guyana’s modernisation process picks up momentum, the necessity of engaging Guyanese, both locally and in the diaspora, becomes all the more imperative.

With a relatively small population, and a sizeable land mass spanning 210,000 square kilometers, development can be challenging, especially given our geographic configuration where the vast majority of our population live on a comparatively tiny coastal plain.

This is why the country needs the support of everyone to contribute to its development. For reasons dating back since the dark period of PNC dictatorial rule, Guyana has lost a significant number of its people to migration, many of whom took with them valuable technical and developmental skills.

It is no exaggeration to state that Guyana, during that period, experienced a severe brain-drain, the impact of which is still being felt to this day.

There was, however, no loss of love or

care for the country of their birth by Guyanese in the Diaspora.

Many of them yearn for the day when they could permanently return home to enjoy the warmth of the Guyanese sunshine, and, for that matter, the society as a whole. They continue to pay keen attention to developments at home, with unmatched passion and intensity.

The PPP/C administration, for its part, is doing everything within its power to engage the Diaspora in the country’s developmental agenda. During a recent engagement with the Guyanese Diaspora in St. Lucia on the sidelines of the 51st Meeting of the Conference of Heads of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), President Ali announced plans to take a range of government services directly to Guyanese living overseas.

According to the President, the initiative forms part of a broader effort to strengthen ties with the Diaspora while ensuring they play an active role in shaping the country’s

future.

Among the several initiatives announced is the rolling out of mobile government service teams to countries with large Guyanese populations making it easier for citizens abroad to access government services.

The initiative, according to President Ali, will begin in St. Lucia, where a biometric passport team is expected soon to facilitate passport applications and other related services.

It is a fact that a growing number of eligible overseas Guyanese are benefitting from initiatives taken by the PPP/C administration to enhance their conditions of life, such as the one-off cash-grants, old age pensions, and NIS entitlements, which were not accessible under the previous PNC administration.

These are indeed significant developments for which the PPP/C administration must be given full credit. Guyanese living overseas are no longer on the periphery of the country’s development agenda, but are

now active participants in this exciting task of nation-building.

The digitisation of government services, with emphasis on efficiency, is now touching the lives of Guyanese both in Guyana and abroad.

A new digital Guyana is emerging where it is now possible to access services from the confines of one’s home.

These initiatives are creating new opportunities, both in term of personal transactions and business opportunities. As noted by President Ali, Guyana’s rapid transformation has elevated its international profile, resulting in increased investor confidence and stakeholder interest.

The prospects for a more prosperous and inclusive Guyana have never been better.

The country is now on the cusp of a new era of transformation and modernisation, driven by the application of cutting-edge technologies and electronic forms of governance.

Five candidates now shortlisted for position of UG Vice-Chancellor

THE Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Sir Ronald Sanders has announced that considerable progress has been made in the search for a new Vice-Chancellor, with the pool of applicants now narrowed down to a final shortlist of five candidates.

According to the Chancellor, advertisements for the position drew twenty-seven applications from Guyana, the wider Caribbean, Canada, and India. Following an initial review, the University’s Search

Committee reduced the list to 15 candidates for further consideration.

To ensure a rigorous and credible assessment, the Committee then enlisted the help of professors and other university specialists of considerable stature in the United Kingdom, who assisted in evaluating the academic credentials of the candidates, and supported the preparation of the final shortlist.

The five remaining candidates will now proceed to the next phase of the selection process, which

will include interviews and public lectures before a final decision is made.

Sir Ronald underscored the significance of the Vice-Chancellor position, describing it as critical to both the future of the University, and Guyana’s broader national development.

He noted that the university must produce graduates equipped with the skills, competencies, and adaptability needed to serve a changing and growing economy, while also placing greater emphasis on strengthening research, in-

novation, and professional training.

The Chancellor also addressed the transition in leadership, noting that the contract of the current Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paloma Mohamed, is set to end on July 31, 2026. He expressed appreciation for her service to the University during her tenure.

To ensure continuity during the transition, Sir Ronald announced that a three-person team drawn from the University’s staff will manage the institution between July 31 and the

assumption of office by the incoming Vice-Chancellor.

He explained that this interim arrangement is intended to maintain stability in the University’s administration while the final stage of the selection process is completed.

The Chancellor reaffirmed the University Council’s commitment to conducting a fair, transparent, and merit-based selection process, and gave assurances that the public will continue to be kept informed as the search moves forward.

The president adequately farmed out his farm explanation

PRESIDENT Ali returned to Guyana yesterday from the CARICOM Heads meeting in St. Lucia. He touched down on territory he is familiar with. Before he became president, a lot had been thrown at Irfaan Ali.

There was a drive to undermine him during the 2020 election campaign by the widespread rumour that his qualifications were not real even though at the time he was a doctoral candidate at the University of the West Indies. This man has a doctorate not from some obscure American university but from UWI.

After he became president, a conspiracy against him was drawn up to destabilise Guyana using the Adriana Younge death. The Younge tragedy was deliberately exploited to weaken the government with the climax being April 28, 2025 when the post-mortem release was the cover for violent eruption.

The conspiracy to use the Younge tragedy backfired when the family’s pathologist did not do what was expected: conclude that Younge did not drown but was murdered.

The Younge machination fizzled out because there wasn’t scope to continue the propaganda after the second post-mortem. Now we are into conspiracy number two. And the war drums have been beaten by a politician who has no credibility –Azruddin Mohamed. The story is about a farm the president possesses.

When the announcement was made by Mohamed, the usual anti-government preachers open the church door. The successor of the Stabroek News, the Kiskadee Watch, has done two editorials so far. Mohamed then

descended into one of Guyana’s most laughable ironies: he wants the president to resign.

Look who wants the President to resign, a man whose wealth is stupendous but questionable. His opulence in Guyana at one point was extremely vulgar. The worth of 15 cars a year ago was a hundred times more costly than the president’s farm.

All Mohamed has done is to show Guyanese an embellished video of the President’s farm. He has done nothing more. He has produced no evidence of wrongdoing by the president.

I know readers will say whether it is Mohamed or John Jones that told the nation of the farm, the farm is the president’s property and there needs to be an explanation. But Mohamed did not wait for an explanation. He wants the President to resign.

Kiskadee Watch, Janet Bulkan, Village Voice, ANUG, APNU, David Hinds, Kaieteur News, and the entire school of anti-Ali haters did not hold off until they heard what the President had to say.

Yesterday, the President offered an explanation about his small farm. I don’t know the largeness of his farm. But the private press puts it at 140 acres.

Is that a large farm? A large number of rice farmers have fields that exceed 1,000 acres. For any type of farm that is into diversified agriculture, cattle-rearing, sheep cultivation, poultry production, then 140 acres cannot sustain such a venture.

So, the question is why the fuss over 140 acres? Again, readers will tell me it is not the size of the farm but the origin of the investment.

Well, Irfaan Ali explained the story of his farm but before he did so, sections of this country were happy to hound down the President without a scintilla of evidence of wrong-doing.

Today, the nation heard what the president had to say. I have no doubt that President Ali’s plausible account of his business possession will not dilute the anti-government sentiments. I would say to the president as I said on the Freddie Kissoon Show last Wednesday and will repeat myself tonight on the same show, he has to get his PR right because the wolves are at the door.

Yesterday, he got his PR right. He gave the nation, not Mohamed and the sharks, an account of his farm.

The president had one thing on his mind as he spoke on this yesterday. He has to rely on context and he did that. He successfully manoeuvred onto the PR territory. He spoke

directly to the Guyanese people.

One of the basic lessons of power is that its possessor must at all times, be strategising with the strong willingness not to play into the hands of his enemies.

No prime minister or president can afford to do that. In my last Sunday’s column in Chronicle, I showed where British PM, Keir Starmer, failed while his Guyanese counterpart, Irfaan Ali succeeded.

The President has to know that his detractors are shaping Adriana Younge 2.0. They are waiting for him to slip up. I don’t think he will. He did not yesterday. He will emerge unscathed but the wolves will remain at the door.

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.

GNBS rolls out verification services for tint, sound level meters –– to bolster enforcement

THE Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) has launched two new verification services for tint meters and sound level meters, marking a significant step in strengthening the tools used by law enforcement and regulatory agencies across the country.

The services were officially unveiled on July 9, 2026, during a launch event held at the GNBS Head Office at the National Exhibition Centre in Sophia, Georgetown, and will become available to the public starting July 13, 2026.

The new offerings are designed to ensure the accuracy and reliability of instruments used to measure Vehicle Visible Light Transmission

(VLT) and environmental sound levels, bringing these measurements in line with relevant national standards and regulatory requirements. By verifying that these devices function correctly, GNBS aims to promote consistency, transparency, and public confidence in the enforcement activities carried out by agencies responsible for monitoring tint compliance and noise pollution.

The initiative also carries weight beyond routine regulation, as accurate and dependable measurements help reinforce the credibility of evidence presented in legal and judicial proceedings.

Getting to this point required specialised preparation. Inspectors from the

GNBS Legal Metrology Department, alongside representatives from the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Environmental Protection

Agency (EPA), completed two dedicated training sessions focused on the verification of sound level meters and tint meters.

These sessions were designed to build technical knowledge and practical skills among participants, ensuring that verification procedures are carried out with precision and consistency within the national measurement system.

With this training now complete and the necessary equipment in place, the Bureau’s Legal Metrology Department is better positioned to support public safety, regulatory compliance, and industry efficiency.

Officials say the new services will also deepen collaboration between agencies and help ensure measurement standards are applied uniformly across enforcement and regulatory work.

Users should take note

that both tint meters and sound level meters must be verified every six months to maintain measurement accuracy.

The cost recovery fees have been set as follows: sound level meters used by private entities will cost $3,000 per instrument to verify, while those used by government ministries and agencies will cost $20,000 per instrument. Tint meters, regardless of the user category, carry a verification fee of $10,000 per instrument.

Businesses, government agencies, and other operators of these instruments were urged to have them verified within the prescribed six-month window to remain compliant with regulatory requirements.

Former cop gets life sentence for robbery-murder of young businessman

YOGENDRA Sukhdeo, a former policeman, of Diamond, East Bank Demerara (EBD), has been sentenced to life in prison for the 2023 murder of 21-year-old businessman Amit Singh.

Justice Sandil Kissoon ordered that Sukhdeo serve 30 years before becoming eligible for parole.

The sentence was handed down on Thursday in the Demerara High Court after Sukhdeo, 27, changed his plea from not guilty to guilty to the capital offence of mur-

der in the course of a robbery. He entered the guilty plea moments before he was scheduled to face a jury trial last month. Justice Kissoon also ordered that the time Sukhdeo spent on remand since October 2023 be deducted from his sentence.

In delivering his sentencing remarks, Justice Kissoon described Singh’s killing as “a cold, deliberate act of murder in the furtherance of robbery attended by acts of extreme cruelty and violence to the victim, Amit Singh.”

The judge said those who

violate the sanctity of human life and threaten the safety and well-being of society through violent criminal conduct motivated by unlawful financial gain “must be prepared to accept the consequences of such conduct in law.”

According to Justice Kissoon, Sukhdeo carried out a “wilful, planned, and premeditated act of murder, motivated by greed,” when he bludgeoned Singh to death and stole $8 million from him.

“This accused…blud -

geoned his victim to death in a horrific display of callous indifference to human life, robbing him of $8 million in an effort to conceal the crime he had committed,” the judge said.

Justice Kissoon said the circumstances surrounding the killing placed it among the most serious offences under the law, noting that felony murder committed during the course of a robbery carries the maximum penalties of death or life imprisonment.

A TRUSTED FRIENDSHIP BETRAYED

The court heard that Singh of Delph Street, Campbellville, Georgetown, was lured to a property at Middle Road, La Penitence, Georgetown, under the guise of a gold transaction.

Justice Kissoon said Sukhdeo used deception to gain Singh’s trust, falsely representing that he had gold valued at $8 million for sale.

The judge noted that Singh, who regarded Sukhdeo as a “tried and trusted friend”, entered a vehicle with him believing he was going to complete a legitimate transaction.

Instead, Justice Kissoon said, Sukhdeo took Singh to a secluded location where he was attacked and killed.

“The deceased [Singh] was not a threat in any form,” the judge said, adding that Singh was “vulnerable, unarmed, and helpless” when he was attacked.

The court heard that Singh suffered multiple blunt force injuries to his head, face and neck.

A post-mortem examination conducted by forensic pathologist Dr. Nehaul Singh found that the cause of death was multiple injuries, including blunt trauma to the head and face, blunt trauma to the neck and blood aspiration.

Justice Kissoon said the injuries demonstrated the “extreme violence” used against Singh, pointing out that the victim also suffered defensive injuries, indicating that he fought for his life during the attack.

A piece of wood recovered at the scene was tested and found to contain blood consistent with Singh’s DNA profile.

In arriving at the sentence, Justice Kissoon identified several aggravating factors, including the planning and premeditation involved, the fact that the murder was committed during a robbery, the use of extreme violence, the use of a weapon, and Sukhdeo’s position of trust.

The judge noted that Sukhdeo’s former roles as a Presidential Guard and Special Branch rank heightened the seriousness of the offence because those positions required public trust.

Justice Kissoon also highlighted the impact of Singh’s death on his family, noting that victim impact statements revealed the emotional trauma experienced by his relatives.

“A child has attempted to take his life from this crime,” the judge noted, while referencing the devastating effect the murder had on Singh’s loved ones.

Justice Kissoon said the evidence showed that Sukhdeo attempted to conceal the crime by hiding Singh’s body, removing his phone and concealing the proceeds of the robbery.

Justice Kissoon said: “The inescapable conclusion flowing from the aggravating circumstances of this crime is that it was simply a cold-blooded act of murder by the accused of his victim in furtherance of robbing him.”

PLEA IN MITIGATION

Sukhdeo had initially denied the allegation and was expected to stand trial before Justice Kissoon and a 12-member jury. However, he changed his plea before the trial commenced.

Defence attorney Shercola Exeter-Sardina urged the court to consider Sukhdeo’s guilty plea, youthful age, lack of previous convictions and prospects for rehabilitation.

She said her client had accepted responsibility and spared Singh’s family the emotional burden of a contested trial.

“He does not seek sympathy for himself, nor does he seek to excuse his conduct, but the realisation is one that weighs heavily

Former cop gets life sentence ...

upon him every day,” Exeter-Sardina told the court.

The attorney said Sukhdeo had participated in programmes while incarcerated and had demonstrated discipline during his previous service as a member of the Guyana Police Force (GPF).

She asked the court to balance the seriousness of the offence with the possibility of rehabilitation.

She submitted, “Even those who commit the most serious offences retain their capacity for reform.”

‘LIKE A BROTHER’

Before sentence was imposed, Sukhdeo addressed the court and apologised to

Singh’s parents and family.

“Today, I stand before you all with a broken heart and tears in my eyes,” he said.

Speaking directly to Singh’s parents, the killer asked for forgiveness.

“Mr. and Mrs. Singh, speaking to you both as a son to a father and a mother, I again just seek your forgiveness from the bottom of my heart for everything that caused us to be here today.”

Sukhdeo described Singh as someone who was “like a brother” to him.

“He was also so jolly and happy and most of the times trying to cheer anyone up,” he said.

AGGRAVATING FACTORS

Prosecutor, attorney-at-law Latchmie Rahamat highlighted several aggravating factors for the court’s consideration during sentencing, including the abuse of trust, premeditation and financial motive behind the killing.

She said Sukhdeo lured Singh to the meeting under the guise of a legitimate gold transaction, causing him to leave home believing he was travelling to complete a business deal.

Rahamat noted that Singh was robbed of $8 million after the attack, with $7.79 million later

Republic Bank ‘revs’ up car ownership with return of ‘My First Ride + Deal on Wheels’

REPUBLIC Bank (Guyana) Limited is set to host the return of its popular “My First Ride + Deal on Wheels Event,” giving customers a convenient onestop opportunity to drive off with financing for their next vehicle.

The event takes place on Saturday, July 11, from 12 noon to 17:00hrs at the MovieTowne Mall parking lot, Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara.

The initiative forms part of the bank’s broader “Make Everything Happen” campaign, which runs until September 25, 2026, and is aimed at helping customers

secure affordable financing across a range of personal needs, from buying a vehicle to funding education, securing a mortgage, or covering travel expenses.

At Saturday’s event, both new and existing customers will be able to meet face-toface with banking experts, inhouse auto financing officers, and a variety of auto dealers, all under one roof. Attendees will have the chance to begin the loan application process on the spot, cutting out much of the usual back-and-forth involved in vehicle financing.

Republic Bank said it continues to offer competitive financing solutions designed

to make car ownership more accessible, including low to no equity requirements, attractive interest rates, and flexible repayment terms.

Whether someone is purchasing a vehicle for the first time or looking into financing for other life goals, the bank is encouraging members of the public to attend and explore their options.

“Republic Bank is ready to support the journey,” the bank said, adding that the event reflects its commitment to helping customers “turn dreams into reality” as part of its wider push to make everything happen for its customers.

recovered from Sukhdeo. She also pointed to the brutal nature of the assault, the attempts to conceal the body, and the devastating impact Singh’s death had on his family.

GRIEVING

Victim impact statements from Amit Singh’s parents, read into the record by Rahamat, painted a picture of the devastating impact his murder has had on his family and community.

His mother described Singh as “a very loving, kind, and talented young man” who brought happiness wherever he went and was deeply loved by his family, friends and community.

She told the court that her son was the drummer at their mandir and “was always the life of every function.”

She said the moment her son stopped answering her calls, she feared the worst, and that fear became reality when she learnt he had been brutally murdered.

“A part of me died on that day,” she said, adding that since his death she has been unable to get a full night’s sleep, suffers from constant worry and fear, and struggles to understand how someone could “beat and kill my son so brutally.”

His mother also spoke

of the impact his death had on his siblings, particularly his younger brother, who she described as his best friend and confidant. She told the court that her son was deeply affected by the loss.

Singh’s father described his son as “my pride, and one of my greatest blessings of my life,” recalling him as a kind, loving, respectful and talented young man who touched the lives of everyone who knew him.

The older Singh told the court that he had looked forward to watching his son grow, succeed, get married and have a family of his own, never imagining that he would one day have to bury him.

“The day I learned that my son had been brutally murdered changed my life forever,” he said, describing the pain and shock of losing Amit as “beyond words.”

He said since his son’s death, he had become “a broken man,” losing his peace of mind and happiness, while struggling with sleepless nights and overwhelming grief.

The father stated, “There are days when I feel numb and empty, and there are days when the pain is so overwhelming that I can barely function.”

He told the court that every family gathering, fes-

tival, birthday and special occasion now serve as a painful reminder that Amit is no longer alive.

“His empty chair and his absence from our lives are wounds that never heal.”

He also spoke of the effect Amit’s death has had on his other children, stating it was heartbreaking to watch his family suffer while knowing he could not bring his son back.

“Amit’s death has robbed our family of our joy, our peace, and our sense of security,” he said, adding that the loss had left “a permanent void that can never be filled.”

He told the court that he misses hearing his son’s voice, his laughter and seeing him bring life to their home.

“More than anything, I simply miss being able to call him my son and hold him close,” Singh said.

In the end, Justice Kissoon found that the aggravating circumstances outweighed the mitigating factors.

The judge noted that while Sukhdeo was young, had no previous convictions and had expressed remorse, rehabilitation remained a secondary consideration given the gravity of the offence. Attorneys Dexter Smartt and Eden Corbin also appeared on behalf of the defence.

‘State of Agricultural Commodity Markets’ explores how best to cope with shocks

trade policy choices play a key role in the resilience of global food markets, FAO flagship report finds

SHOCKS to the world’s increasingly interconnected food and agricultural markets are growing in frequency and intensity, and evidence suggests there are effective policy measures that can mitigate and shorten their impact, according to a new flagship report released Thursday by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO).

With the value of food and agricultural trade up fivefold since 2000 to about $2 trillion, and with more and more countries integrated into trade networks, bolstering their resilience in the face of disruptive shocks is a global concern.

Crafting supportive policy frameworks, which require international cooperation, has demonstrably positive effects in curbing the price and hunger consequences of shocks, according to research presented in the new edition of The State of Agricultural Commodity Markets (SOCO) 2026.

Fewer and shorter-lived export restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, for example, led to only eight percent of globally traded calories being impacted, down from 16 percent during the 2007-08 period when a

confluence of shocks triggered a sharp spike in food commodity prices.

SOCO 2026 examines how global food and agricultural markets can absorb disruptions and restore market equilibrium in the wake of shocks ranging from disasters or extreme weather episodes, socioeconomic crises and conflicts, to biological and technological events.

Trade, by enabling food to arrive quickly where it may suddenly be needed, is critical, and the report analyses how trade network characteristics, intensity and policy environment can bolster its ability to address hunger and restore market stability.

“All countries can benefit from stronger international cooperation, well-functioning and integrated trade networks, and greater trust in the multilateral trading system,” FAO Director-General QU Dongyu wrote in his foreword to the report.

“Conversely, all countries stand to lose from fragmentation, uncertainty and declining cooperation,” he added, highlighting how that is especially the case for the world’s poorest.

The report’s launch event featured a panel discussion bringing togeth -

er Krisztina Bende, the Permanent Representative of Switzerland and the Chairperson of FAO’s Committee on Commodity Problems, Bassam Rady, Egypt’s Permanent Representative to FAO, Emma Hatcher, Australia’s Deputy Permanent Representatives to FAO, and Boubaker Ben-Belhassen, Director of FAO’s Markets and Trade Division. FAO Chief Economist Maximo Torero concluded the event.

KEY MESSAGES OF SOCO 2026:

1. Global food and agricultural markets are exposed to a range of shocks, including extreme weather events, economic and financial disturbances, geopolitical tensions and conflicts, pandemics, and energy price fluctuations, and these disruptions can be systemic.

2. Better connectivity within the trade network strengthens buffering capacities in the face of shocks – countries that can source food from more trade partners are generally more resilient to shocks.

3. When major producers implement export restrictions to protect their domestic markets, they transfer insta-

bility to global markets and contribute to increased food insecurity worldwide.

4. Following a shock, export volumes across bilateral trade links decline significantly, with the effects fading within a period of six months.

5. Shock-triggered food commodity price spikes can have a persistent impact and are not matched by downward price movements.

6. Food stocks are an integral component of resilience strategies. While maintaining large buffer stocks to stabilise domestic prices has proven to be highly costly and fiscally unsustainable, smaller emergency food reserves, integrated into social protection safety nets targeting the needy and vulnerable, can effectively address food insecurity without distorting markets.

NEW EVIDENCE

SOCO 2026 presents several findings based on original research that sheds light on the relatively understudied area of the shock reaction dynamics related to food markets.

Notably, they show global food trade relatively resilient, typically adjusting to shocks within months. That resilience does not de-

pend only on the structure of global markets and trade, but equally on the policy choices.

Nevertheless, this adjustment entails wide food price movements that can be persistent, posing food security risks, particularly for low-income net food-importing countries.

Globalised markets mean that major shocks do generate significant effects in domestic markets. The report analysed the average velocity and magnitude at which weather shocks affecting world prices for wheat, maize and rice propagate and pass through to local markets.

While specific factors can vary, wheat markets tend to be the fastest to normalise, while for rice, disruptions last longer and price movements are greater, reflecting the low trade-intensity of the global rice market.

Countries that rely heavily on a limited number of exporters face heightened risks and are especially vulnerable. An exercise, based on monthly trade data from all countries in the world during the 2007–2024 period, found that, for a food-importing country, being connected to exporters with many trade links – for example trade

hubs – can moderate the effects of a shock.

Changes in trade policies contributed substantially to the increases in world prices of staple foods during the 2007–08 global food price crisis. Insulating policies and reactive border protection rates are estimated to explain about 45 percent of the increase in the world rice market and 30 percent of that for wheat.

A scenario simulating the impact of a strong warmphase of El Niño shock affecting multiple countries suggests that export restrictions add 21.4 million people to those pushed into hunger initially due to the shock.

Notably, and with FAO’s constant advocacy, countries imposed fewer and shorter export restrictions on food commodities during the COVID-19 pandemic, significantly mitigating food insecurity risks.

As global food markets come under increasing pressure from geopolitical tensions, conflicts and weather extremes, international cooperation and policy coordination can contribute to a swift adjustment in trade and limit the incidence of food price spikes, strengthening resilience, the report notes.

(FAO)

‘Satan’ remanded for conspiracy over AK-47 probe

A 34-year-old Parika labourer was on Wednesday remanded to prison after being charged in connection with the ongoing investigation into the alleged possession of 10 AK-47 rifles discovered in Berbice earlier this year.

Ryan Singh, called “Satan”, of Parika, East Bank Essequibo, appeared before Magistrate Alisha George at the Leonora Magistrate’s Court, where he was charged with conspiracy to commit a felony, contrary to Section 33 of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01.

The charge stems from an investigation into the alleged possession of 10 AK47 rifles without a licence at East Coast Berbice.

Singh pleaded not guilty to the charge. Bail was refused, and he was remanded to prison until July 10, 2026.

His arraignment is the latest development in the high-profile firearms investigation that has already seen several persons charged.

Last month, Gregory Anthony Persaud, called “Greg”, a 21-year-old wash bay attendant of Farm, East Bank Demerara, and Antonio Alonzo Lawrie, called “Lanzo”, a 33-yearold businessman and wash bay owner from the same community, surrendered to investigators at the Criminal Investigation Department Headquarters on Vlissengen Road, Georgetown, accompanied by their attor-

ney-at-law.

Police said legal advice was obtained recommending that Persaud be charged

with possession of a firearm magazine, contrary to Section 16(2)(a) of the Firearms Act, Chapter 16:05.

Legal advice also recommended that both Lawrie and Persaud be charged with conspiracy to commit a felony under Section 33 of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act.

Their arrest formed part of the wider investigation that began with the arrest and charging of taxi driver Stephen Rajah.

Rajah was remanded to prison after appearing before the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court on May 28 on a charge of possession of firearms. He was not required to plead.

Police said Rajah was arrested after ranks conducting a stop-and-search exercise along the Berbice River Bridge Access Road on May 22 intercepted a black Toyota Fielder wagon.

Investigators alleged that the driver sped away from the scene and escaped.

Acting on information received, police subsequently searched an area along the No. 11 Village Public Road, Corentyne, where they discovered 10 AK-47 rifles wrapped in plastic and cloth.

Investigators said the weapons bore markings consistent with 7.62x39mm rifles and appeared to have been tampered with in an apparent attempt to conceal their serial numbers.

Rajah was later intercepted at Nabaclis, East Coast Demerara, in the same vehicle and taken into custody. Police have said investigations into the illegal firearms case remain ongoing.

Two remanded over body dumped in barrel at Le Repentir Cemetery

Edgar Lawson, called

“Baby,” a 33-year-old businessman of Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara, and Keiran Barrett, called

TWO men who were among the remaining suspects wanted in connection with the murder of Levi Williams, called “Vamperous,” whose decomposed body was found stuffed inside a barrel at the Le Repentir Cemetery on Christmas night, were on Thursday remanded to prison.

“Bucko,” a 50-year-old vendor of East La Penitence, Georgetown, appeared separately before Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

The pair were charged with the murder of Williams, which allegedly occurred between December 23 and December 25, 2025, at Charlotte Street, Georgetown. They were not required to plead to the indictable charge. Bail was refused and

both men were remanded to prison until July 29, 2026.

Lawson and Barrett were arrested by police in June after being listed among the remaining suspects in the investigation.

Williams’ decomposed body was discovered on Christmas night, December 25, 2025, stuffed inside a barrel at Le Repentir Cemetery, in one of the city’s most gruesome murder investigations.

According to the Guyana Police Force, investigations revealed that Williams was allegedly killed sometime between the early hours of December 23 and the night of December 25 at a location on Charlotte Street.

Police said Williams had been accused by a group of men of stealing a firearm.

Investigators alleged that he was restrained at a suspected drug block in the Charlotte Street area, where he was severely beaten with wire. During the assault, Williams reportedly became helpless and was subsequently placed inside a blue plastic bag.

Further investigations revealed that his body was loaded into the back of a motor bus and transported to Le Repentir Cemetery, where it was dumped inside a barrel between Louisa Row and St. Stephen Street.

The body was discovered at about 23:40hrs on December 25. Police said Williams was clad only in a pair of blue shorts, with his head inside the barrel and his feet protruding.

Earlier this year, three other men were charged with Williams’ murder. They are Randy Mars, called “Ratty,” a 42-yearold unemployed man of Kuru Kururu, Soesdyke/Linden Highway; Aaron Khan, called “Tattoo Man,” a 29-year-old unemployed resident of Charlotte Street; and Jamal David, called “Hundred,” a 44-year-old unemployed resident of West Ruimveldt.

With the arraignment of Lawson and Barrett, five men have now been charged in connection with the murder as police continue their investigations.

First Lady launches Phase Five of ‘Adopt an Orphanage’ Initiative –– marking five years of support

FIRST Lady Mrs. Arya Ali on Thursday launched Phase Five of the “Adopt an Orphanage” initiative, a milestone marking five years of the programme’s work supporting orphanages across Guyana.

The launch ceremony concluded with the signing of a Memorandum of

The “Adopt an Orphanage” initiative was launched by the First Lady in 2021 to give orphanages across the country the opportunity to receive monetary donations that offset their substantial monthly expenses, including bills, groceries and other costs. The programme currently supports 11 orphanages

conversation into a project that has since grown in scope and reach.

Speaking on common misconceptions about the children the initiative serves, Mrs. Ali said many people assume orphans have lost both parents, but the reality is often different.

“Many of the children

by their circumstances, but instead deserve protection, care and an environment where they feel safe, valued and supported.

Mrs. Ali noted that providing such care requires tremendous sacrifice from those who run the homes.

“The dedicated individuals and organisations that operate our Children’s

to give facilities greater flexibility to direct resources toward improving development and the overall well-being of the children in their care.

Reflecting on the programme’s growth, the First Lady noted that the initiative began with eight orphanages in its first phase, expanding to 11 by phase

examinations and pre-prescription spectacles, as well as counselling services for their emotional and mental well-being.

The programme has also created opportunities for extracurricular and recreational activities, including backpack and school supply drives, movie nights, visits to indoor

Understanding between the Office of the First Lady and key stakeholders, formalising continued support for the initiative and the children who benefit from it.

In her feature address, Mrs. Ali described the launch as a testament to what is possible, “when governments, private sector, civil society, and caring citizens unite behind a shared goal”.

nationwide with the help of sponsors.

The idea for the initiative grew out of a conversation between Mrs. Ali and Guyanese-American rapper Saint Jhn during his visit to State House in October 2020, where the two discussed a shared concern for orphanages, and ways to enrich the lives of children living in those homes.

Through her Office, the First Lady turned that

residing in our orphanages and care homes still have parents or extended family members. For a number of reasons and circumstances, they require temporary or long-term care and support outside of their family environment,” she said.

She added that regardless of how children come into care, they remain among the most vulnerable members of society and should not be defined

Homes work tirelessly every day to provide shelter, education, health care, emotional support and stability. Yet they continue to face significant financial challenges in sustaining these essential services. That is precisely why the Adopt an Orphanage Initiative exists and what it seeks to remedy,” she said.

By easing the financial burden on children’s homes, the initiative aims

two. Participation dipped to nine homes in phase three, but the programme has maintained support for 11 orphanages through phase four and now into phase five.

Mrs. Ali said that, thanks to the consistent generosity of sponsors and donors, the initiative has been able to provide children with comprehensive medical services, including general health checkups, dental care, eye

recreational spaces, Easter kite-flying events, and excursions to child-friendly attractions.

“These numbers represent far more than statistics,” Mrs. Ali said, adding: “Behind each one is a child whose life’s trajectory has been touched by your kindness and whose opportunities have been expanded because you choose to care.”

ECD residents create thriving poultry business with President Ali’s support, guidance

SOME 29 residents from the East Coast of Demerara have answered President Dr Irfaan Ali’s call to embrace technology-driven agriculture by establishing a state-of-the-art tunnel-house poultry project with support from the government.

The multi-million-dollar

facility has the capacity to produce up to 45,000 chickens per batch, showcasing a modern, efficient, and sustainable approach to poultry production in Guyana. The project was co-funded by the villagers, who contributed 10 per cent of the investment, while the remaining financing was se-

cured through a commercial bank.

Developed with the direct support and guidance of President Ali, the initiative is part of the government’s broader vision to expand local food production, strengthen food security, create sustainable livelihoods, and generate new economic opportunities

Some 29 ECD residents have answered President Dr Irfaan Ali’s call to embrace technology-driven agriculture by establishing a state-of-the-art tunnel-house poultry project with support from the government for communities across the country.

The group, operating under the Agri Invest initiative, said the President’s vision and support helped turn a simple conversation into a thriving agricultural venture that is creating jobs, generating income and building long-term wealth.

One of the entrepreneurs recalled that the idea was born after the President stopped to speak with them while they were exercising

along the Georgetown Seawall and later invited them to breakfast to discuss opportunities.

The farm, located at Mora Point, has already completed two production cycles and is preparing to begin a third.

According to the group, the initiative is designed not only to strengthen Guyana’s poultry industry but also to create generational wealth for the young investors and their families.

Looking ahead, the entrepreneurs say they have

ambitious plans to expand the operation into one of the region’s premier poultry companies, comparing their long-term vision to international industry giants.

They also expressed gratitude to President Ali for believing in their potential, saying his investment in young people has given them an opportunity to build a lasting legacy while contributing to Guyana’s growing agriculture sector. (NCN)

‘Regardless of the result, head into that journey with passion, focus, dedication’

–– Minister Parag tells pupils ahead of NGSA results announcement

Education Minister Sonia Parag MINISTER of Education

Sonia Parag, ahead of the release of the 2026 National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) results, on Thursday encouraged pupils to remain calm as they prepare to learn which secondary schools they have gained placement at.

In a video message posted to the ministry’s social media pages ahead of the release, Parag congratulated all Grade Six pupils for reaching the important milestone in their educational journey, while acknowledging the anxiety many children and their families experience as they await the results.

“I know that you’re nervous; I know that your parents may be nervous right now. I was there last year, and I know what it feels like to wait to see those results. But don’t be nervous,” the minister said.

Against this backdrop, she reminded pupils that completing the NGSA marks the beginning of a new chapter, urging them to embrace their secondary education with enthusiasm regardless of the school to which they are assigned.

“You have crossed the milestone, and you’re now heading into your secondary educational journey.

Irrespective of what secondary school you got, I want you to head into that journey with passion, focus, and dedication,” Parag stated.

The minister also encouraged parents, guardians, teachers and other family members to join today’s official announcement of the results, after which pupils will be able to access their individual results through the Online portal.

Meanwhile, the Education Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting students throughout their academic careers, assuring pupils that continued investments will be made in education.

“Please remember that we are very proud of you, and as a government, we will continue to invest in your educational journey,” she said.

In April, it was indicated that some 15,938 pupils across Guyana were set to sit the two-day examination in May.

Ahead of the examination, the minister had encouraged candidates to approach the assessment with confidence, reminding them that years of preparation had equipped them for success.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Friday July 10, 2026)

CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Sonal Dinusha-92 (2) 3 Tests

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Which two SL surnames have featured twice in both Tests of the recent series against the WI? (2) Which WI surname has featured twice in both Tests of the recent series versus SL?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Brook and Salt blow India away as England romp to series win

(ESPNCRICINFO) – ENGLAND’S Test team may be in crisis but their T20 side marches on.

They romped home with 37 balls to spare in Bristol to seal their first-ever series win over India in this format and will displace the reigning world champions as the No. 1 T20I side (per the ICC’s rankings) if they can clinch a clean sweep in Southampton on Saturday.

Phil Salt punched gloves with Harry Brook, his captain, as he knocked Arshdeep Singh out to point and jogged through for the winning run. It took their unbroken second-wicket partnership to 146 off 70 balls and complete another annihilation of India, after Tuesday’s 125-run win at Trent Bridge. This performance was every bit as clinical.

England has now won 19 out of 22 completed T20Is since Brook took over as captain last year and after a tight win in Manchester on Saturday, they have been utterly dominant in both matches this week. They are a vastly experienced side - five players have 60 or more T20I caps - and have made simple but hugely effective plans to take India down.

The only shame from England’s perspective is that the next T20 World Cup is over two years away. They fell just short when trying to chase 254 against India at the 2026 T20 World Cup in March, and if this series pales in significance compared to a World Cup semi-final, they have at least exacted some kind of revenge.

This was the first time in India’s histo-

ry that they had lost five successive men’s T20Is, and the result leaves their new captain, Shreyas Iyer, under significant pressure barely two weeks into his tenure. “This is the transition phase and we will be making a lot of mistakes,” he said. “Again, it was a disappointing one.”

Brook and Salt’s assault

Salt faced a second successive first-over maiden, though Arshdeep Singh did allow four leg byes when he strayed onto the pads. Arshdeep struck in his second over, Jos Buttler edging behind after launching a straight six, but was scooped for six by Brook and did not return for a third until the game was over as a contest.

It took Salt until his tenth ball to get off the mark but he quickly turned 0 off 9 into 26 off 19, carving both Prince Yadav and then Prasidh Krishna for three fours in an over. Prince rearranged Salt’s stumps with a pinpoint yorker but off a free hit, having overstepped the previous ball, and another Brook lap took England to 62 for 1 after the powerplay.

When Iyer turned to Washington Sundar’s offbreaks, Brook sensed a moment to kill the game and seized it: he went four, six, four, then four in successive balls to take the required rate down to a run-aball, and soon reached a 21-ball fifty with a straight launch for six off Axar Patel. Salt reached his own off 34 balls by flicking Prasidh for four, and they never let up thereafter.

Curran and Ngarava seal Zimbabwe’s stunning series win

(ESPNCRICINFO) - A proper ding-dong battle with its own soundtrack provided by the amazing fans at Castle Corner lit up the Harare night as Zimbabwe edged Bangladesh out, defending a total of 247 and wrapping up the ODI series 2-0 with a game to play.

Ben Curran produced only the seventh instance of a Zimbabwean batting through the entire 50 overs but his 111 not out only became match-winning after a never-saydie bowling effort from his team-mates. At

169 for 3, they were being batted out. At 176 for 5, they were back in it. At 211 for 6, they were tested in a way they weren’t quite ready for. At 222 for 8, with the sky above them drenched in sunset colours, they were favourites.

When the captain Richard Ngarava, intimately involved in orchestrating the Bangladesh collapse - 7 for 65 - had Mehidy Hasan Miraz caught at deep square leg to signal the end of the game, the grass banks erupted. The songs became garbled. Joy rippled right through the whole place.

A pitch that had eased from its most menacing state - the first ODI was marked by a wicket once every 13 runs or so - still generated compelling cricket. Curran was out there at 9.30am when it was fresh and offered sideways movement. Rishad Hossain was out there at 5.20pm when it had dried out and the resulting slowness interfered with shot-making. He wasn’t exactly worried about that as much as he was about trying to exploit the fading light and bring DLS into play. He asked for a change of gloves and was denied. He went down in between overs needing urgent care on his hamstring. It all came to nothing when he was bounced out. Zimbabwe celebrated Rishad’s exit like

justice had been done. Bangladesh, meanwhile, just caught nerves. With 17 to get off 17, Mehidy went after Iknow Chabi for not calling a wide. “Ump! Ump! Ump!” he yelled. “What happened there, ump?!” The simple answer was he had shuffled across his crease which created space for the ball to go through, just a shade past leg stump. The new ODI rules allow for leniency and Zimbabwe would argue they deserved it. Two of their appeals for caught behind were turned down and with no DRS in this series they had no hope of recourse. Still their shoulders didn’t slump. They just took down Tanzid Hasan and Rishad twice (according to their estimate at least).

Bounce was a friend in Harare. When the movement faded away, when the runs started leaking, a fast bowler willing to bend his back always found a little extra. Ngarava harnessed that to telling effect late in the piece. His third spell read 3-0-26-2. Nurul Hasan, who had batted capably to score 38 off 41 under pressure was suddenly gone, along with Mosaddek Hossain for 7 off 9.

His final spell was a deeply satisfying one ball, one match and series winning wicket.

De Kock, ur

THE Barbados Tridents today announced their overseas player roster ahead of the 2026 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) season, adding a formidable blend of top-order power, world-class spin, and seam-bowling variety as the franchise returns to its historic identity under the “One Barbados” partnership.

The five overseas signings confirmed for the upcoming campaign are Quinton de Kock (South Africa), Chris Green (Australia), Mujeeb ur Rahman (Afghanistan), George Linde (South Africa), Daniel Sams (Australia)

Rahman in for Barbados Tridents Test series victory over Sri Lanka just the start of things to come – Chase

With Kensington Oval, “The Mecca” of West Indies cricket, set to host this year’s CPL final, the Tridents’ recruitment for 2026 signals intent to build a squad capable of matching aggressive batting with world-class control across all three bowling disciplines.

Quinton de Kock headlines the signings with him returning to the Tridents. The prolific South African wicketkeeper-batter has long been one of white-ball cricket’s most destructive openers, and his ability to dominate the powerplay makes him a natural fit for Kensington Oval’s fast outfield and true bounce.

Chris Green is also back with the Tridents, bringing his experience as one of CPL’s cricket’s most reliable off-spinners, valued for his control through the middle overs and his sharp work in the field. His addition strengthens the Tridents’ spin department considerably.

Mujeeb ur Rahman joins as one of the most difficult bowlers in world cricket to get away, renowned for his mystery variations and economy at every stage of an innings. The Afghan all-rounder also adds handy lower-order hitting to the squad’s depth. He was part of the Barbados squad which reached the 2022 CPL final.

George Linde rounds out the spin-bowling all-rounder cohort, offering left-arm variety alongside genuine batting ability lower down the order. The South African’s all-round skill set gives the Tridents management further flexibility in squad selection.

Daniel Sams is also back with the Tridents and completes the overseas group, bringing left-arm pace and power-hitting versatility from the death overs with ball in hand to finishing touches with the bat. The Australian’s ability to contribute in both disciplines makes him a valuable middle-overs and finishing option.

Combined with a core West Indian contingent led by Gudakesh Motie, Brandon King and Sherfane Rutherford, the Tridents’ overseas quintet gives the franchise a balanced group across batting, spin, and pace as they look to reclaim past glories under their restored Tridents banner.

CMC – WEST Indies Test captain, Roston Chase, strongly believes that his side’s recent Test series win against Sri Lanka is a “steppingstone” to greater things for the regional team.

The home side defeated Sri Lanka 1-0 in their two-match Test series following the drawn second Test at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, which concluded on Tuesday.

It was the Windies’ first Test series win since defeating Zimbabwe 1-0 in February of 2023, and their first Test series win over Sri Lanka in 23 years.

It was also Chase’s first taste of victory in four Test series since being appointed Test captain last May.

Speaking in a post-match press conference on Tuesday, Chase said the result would give the Windies much-needed confidence ahead of their upcoming two-match Test series against Pakistan later this month.

“I think this is a steppingstone

for us going forward. We sat down and we planned for this Test Championship and we said last year was going to be tough and it was tough, but we said that this year the series we have at home we’d be looking to dominate and win, so I just want the guys to continue from this and let this be a steppingstone and not just leave it there and think ‘We won one series so that’s enough’.

“I think we need to have that consistency. Winning games consistently, that will be good for us in terms of growth and going forward as a cricket nation,” Chase said.

“I’m very elated, especially against a team like Sri Lanka that we’ve struggled to beat even at home and especially when we go away to them it’s very difficult to beat them, so to beat them in a dominating kind of way is very pleasing because we haven’t won against them in 23 years.

“It feels great especially after the year we had last year, to come and start the year with this series victory feels great,” he added.

Speaking on his team’s showing against Sri Lanka, Chase said he was especially pleased with the batting performance.

He said while it was the bowling that usually propped the team up, he was glad to see the batters lead from the front this time around.

“The batting is something that we put a lot of emphasis on because it was mostly the bowling that was standing up for us in the majority of the games, so it was something that I really put forward to the guys that we need to be able to give the bowlers something to work with and they raised their hands tremendously in this series.

“They had four hundreds – I mean we’ve been scoring hundreds in the past games – but I mean these were big hundreds and we turned them into big totals as well; not just one guy getting a hundred and we probably just getting over 250.

For two guys to get hundreds in two innings, that says a lot,” Chase said.

FIBA AmeriCup 2029 Caribbean pre-qualifiers…

Guyana stumbles against Turks and Caicos

GUYANA’S campaign in the FIBA AmeriCup 2029 Caribbean pre-qualifiers got off to a stuttering start on Wednesday evening in Georgetown

The Guyanese, playing the Turks and Caicos, lost 68-55 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

The locals led out of the blocks 12-10, but Trevante Garland played some vital minutes in the second period as the tourists took the lead 31-23 after outplaying the Guyanese 21-11 in the second quarter.

Garland would finish with 13 points in the low-scoring contest.

Turks continued their trek into the third quarter, leading 24-19 in the period as they extended their advantage in the game to 54-42 going into the fourth.

Guyana made an offensive comeback in the fourth quarter, with Kevin Mickle

scoring 24 points. Kevon Wiggins also had 9 points as they lost by 13 points, 68-55.

Meanwhile, the island nation of Barbados opened their campaign with a 35-point blowout win over the Cayman Islands, 89 to 54.

Barbados had several playmakers, with Kyrone Alexander leading the way with 15 points, 12 from Deroni Hurley, and 13 from Carl Thorpe.

Also in the winner’s circle on the opening day was St. Vincent, who dominated their contest with Grenada 85-66.

St. Vincent’s Shad Thomas led the offence with 20 points, with 17 from Chrisford Telesford and 13 points each from Phillips Lawerence-Ricks and Tyler Fraser.

Antigua also staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Bermuda, 82-50.

The Antiguan side had a good combined effort with 5 players in double digits.

The tournament concludes on Sunday and features 10 Caribbean nations battling for the lone qualifying spot from each group.

Guyana has been drawn in Group A alongside Dominica, the Turks and Caicos Islands, Antigua and Barbuda, and Bermuda.

Group B comprises Haiti, Grenada, the Cayman Islands, Barbados, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The competition is being played in a round-robin format, with each team facing every other in the group once.

At the group stage, only the group winners will progress to the next phase of the FIBA AmeriCup 2029 Pre-Qualifiers.

EnerMech Guyana National Junior Chess Championship Qualifiers … CM Pitamber wins title

CANDIDATE Master (CM) Sachin Pitamber emerged as the winner of the 2026 National Junior Chess Championships Qualifiers, hosted by the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF).

The EnerMech Guyana Inc. sponsored seven-round tournament concluded at Olympic House in Liliendaal on July 8th after four days of intense competition.

A total of seventy-five young chess players took part in the Group A and Group B categories, including twenty-six females.

In Group A, CM Pitamber, who holds three National titles, played unbeaten throughout the tournament, scoring 6 points from seven rounds. His bid for a perfect score was thwarted by two draws in the fifth and sixth rounds.

Securing a strong second-place finish with 5.5 points was Woman Candidate Master (WCM) and reigning National Women’s Chess Champion Aditi Joshi, who put on an impressive performance; her only blemishes were a round four loss to CM Pitamber and a draw in the sixth round.

In third place was Alexander Zhang, who finished with 5 points. Drawing on his experience in high-stakes junior play, Zhang went unbeaten across all seven rounds, securing three victories and four draws to claim his spot in the top 9.

The reigning National U-14 and U-16 Girls Chess Champion, Kataleya Sam, claimed

fourth place with a strong 5-point finish.

Sam cemented her spot at the top of the standings by scoring vital wins and holding her ground with key draws in rounds five and six, safely securing her position in the top 9.

Also finishing with 5 points was Jeremy Cole, who secured fifth place after the tie-breaker system was applied. Cole played resilient chess throughout the seven rounds, securing four wins and two draws against just one defeat. His most notable victory came in the final round against reigning National U-14 Open Champion, Abel Fernandez Ciria.

Rounding out the crucial top nine qualifying spots in sixth, seventh, eighth, and ninth places were Nicholas Zhang, Matthew Singh, Darrel Abrams, and National U-12 Open Champion Aiden Tinne, respectively. All four players finished the tournament with a strong 4.5 points, safely securing their places in the top nine for the upcoming National Junior Chess Championship.

In the newly introduced Group B, the tournament saw a thrilling battle among the up-and-coming players, culminating in a dramatic three-way tie at the top with 6 points each. After the tie-breaker system was applied, Mikhail Raghubir emerged victorious to claim first place, while Tremeur Alleyne and Shurlan Sparman secured second and third places, respectively.

Following closely behind was Sanjay Suman, locked in fourth place with 5.5 points, while Mark DeFreitas rounded out the top five with 5 points.

In the Priority Areas School Chess Training Programme under the Ministry of Education, Tremeur Alleyne from Christ Church Secondary School gained the first-place trophy, while second place went to Jaden Denny from St Rose’s High, and third place to Madison Spencer from St. Joseph High.

Group A special Awardees were Aditi Joshi (Best Female), Kataleya Sam (Best U-14), and Aiden Tinnie (Best U-12).

Group B saw Pranav Suman winning the Best U-8, while the Best U-10 Open went to Mark DeFreitas and Best U-10 Girl went to Michaela Thompson.

The competition saw students aged seven to twenty from various schools in and around Georgetown, such as Queen’s College, The Bishops’ High School, Marian Academy, School of the Nations, St. Joseph High, St. Stanislaus College, Christ Church Secondary, Richard Ishmael Secondary, Dolphin Secondary, Stella Maris Primary, New Guyana School, Mae’s School, North Georgetown Secondary, Diamond Secondary, Hurunui Primary School, Cummings Lodge Secondary, Cindy’s Academy and the University of Guyana.

The Group A section, having been a FIDE (International Chess Federation) rated tourna-

ment, will see some players gaining valuable international rating points for the first time, thereby increasing the pool of rated players in Guyana.

Anand Raghunauth, President of the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF), noted that this year’s Qualifiers featured the strongest field of participants to date, with the average Elo rating surpassing all previous tournaments. He added that the GCF’s investment in youth development is making significant strides in advancing the game.

In a simple award ceremony, certificates, medals, and trophies were distributed by the Senior HR Advisor from EnerMech Guyana, Ms. Yulanda Armstrong.

The top nine players from Group A now move on to challenge the current National Junior Champion, Kyle Couchman, for a chance at the 2026 title.

The Junior Championship starts on Monday, July 13 at the Olympic House in Liliendal.

This will be a round robin tournament in which all ten players play each other.

A special thank you is extended to our Chief Arbiter, FIDE Arbiter John Lee, and his team for all their hard work in ensuring that the tournament was conducted according to FIDE rules and regulations, that the live streaming was up and running, and that pairings and standings were published.

CRICKET West Indies (CWI) has announced the 15-member squad for the upcoming Senior Women’s One-Day International tour of Ireland which gets underway on Sunday July 10, with all three fixtures being played at Bready Cricket Club, Bready.

There is one change to the group that was selected for the Tri-series against Ireland and Pakistan and the recently concluded ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, with Realeanna Grimmond replacing the injured Chinelle Henry.

The tour marks the team’s third assignment of the new ICC Women’s Championship cycle, offering another opportunity to bank

points and build momentum on the road to World Cup qualification.

Looking ahead to the series, Head Coach Shane Deitz, stated, “Ireland would be a tough opponent in their conditions, and we need to adapt fast and make sure we play some good cricket,” said Deitz. “These are valuable points for the qualification for the next ODI World Cup and this series and the next few series over the next six to eight months are really important for us to get some wins on the board and make sure we’re in contention for that next ODI World Cup.”

Fresh from an ICC Women’s T20 World Cup campaign that saw the West Indies reach the semi-finals, Captain Hayley Matthews is

now focused on the challenge ahead.

“We’ve had a little bit of time to reflect on the World Cup and take the lessons from it. Our focus is firmly on what’s ahead. Everyone is excited to get back out there, and this ODI series against Ireland is a great opportunity to build on our successes in the World Cup,” she said.

Women’s Squad for the tour of Ireland Hayley Matthews (Captain), Aaliyah Alleyne, Shemaine Campbelle, Jahzara Claxton, Deandra Dottin, Afy Fletcher, Jannillea Glasgow, Realeanna Grimmond, Shawnisha Hector, Zaida James, Qiana Joseph, Mandy Mangru, Ashmini Munisar, Karishma Ramharack, Stafanie Taylor.

Nadine Sammy, Media & Content Officer – John Phillips

West Indies cricketers visit Courts… Company donates $500,000 to Malteenoes SC

By Sean Devers

YESTERDAY at the Courts Mega Store on Main Street, Georgetown, there was a hive of activity as the stars of tomorrow got the opportunity to meet some of the present stars of West Indies cricket.

West Indies players Guyanese Shamar Joseph, Gudakesh Motie, Keemo Paul and St. Lucian Ackeem Auguste visited Courts for a ‘meet and greet’ session with some of their fans.

The event featured 20 future cricketers from Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC), including female national and Caribbean Premier League player Tilleya Madramootoo, who were excited to meet the West Indies players. The players enjoyed a day of fun, interacting with their fans.

The players are a part of the West Indies team set to battle New Zealand at Providence in three ODIs on Saturday, Monday and Thursday.

This is first time that New Zealand is in Guyana for ODI cricket since July 2012.

Yesterday, the company also presented a symbolic cheque of $500,000 to the Malteenoes Cricket Academy which was first held in 1993.

Managing Director of Unicomer Guyana Inc Gillian Matthews, expressed great pleasure at the company being at the forefront of West Indies cricket development, noting that being good corporate citizens means giving back, especially by contributing to the growth of sport through the development of grassroots programmes.

She stated that investing in people, along with partnerships with Cricket West Indies

(CWI), is very important to the company, adding that Malteenoes has been an integral part of the community since 1902 and making this move is for the future. This will allow more coaching, games and memorable moments for the younger crop of players.

Malteenoes was founded by Barbadian tailor Ferdinand Archer and has produced several West Indian players including Rex Collymore, Barrington Browne, Clayton Lambert, Colin Stuart and women’s Test players Candace Atkins and Indomatie Goordyal.

Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, spoke on behalf of the Ministry of Culture, Youth & Sport and jokingly said that he was the ‘night watchman’ since Sports Minister Charles Ramson Jnr and Minister within the Ministry, Steven Jacobs, a former national cricketer and member of Malteenoes were both unavailable due to the meeting of Cabinet.

Ninvalle said that the Government is eager to focus on nurturing future cricket talents while thanking Courts for helping to make their path to greatness smoother.

He wished the players and team success ahead of their first match and believes that it is no accident that careful planning was involved in making the sports arena in Guyana a huge success given the list of regional and international activities billed for the next few months.

Sonia Forrester, Banks DIH PR Executive, promoting the Coca-Cola brand, expressed joy at her company’s initiative, expressing that the programme is a proud moment as they have been able to partner with the team, thus celebrating the future of sports.

Cricket West Indies’ Events Manager,

Dario Barthley added that the partnership was a huge signal to the rest of Guyana and the Caribbean that the West Indies is committed to growing the sport across all facets.

Bartley commended Courts Guyana while expressing gratitude to Banks DIH for being part of CWI’s growing commercial model.

He added that from a commercial perspective, support on and off the field has been significantly enhanced thus providing even

more value to the community.

He thanked everyone involved for their involvement and wished the team success in Guyana and throughout the series. The two matches of the five-match series will be held in Barbados on June 19 and 21.

There was a virtual Cricket match being played by the youngsters while a slushie machine provided refreshment for those in attendance.

Guyana stumbles against Turks and Caicos