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11th January, 2026

See Inside No.108040

AC Marriott reflects ‘ambition, confidence in Guyana’s future’ – President Ali SEE PAGE

- US$50M facility creates 250 permanent jobs, with 98 per cent filled by Guyanese staff

President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali opened the AC Hotel by Marriott Hotel at Ogle, East Coast Demerara on Saturday evening, marking another milestone in Guyana’s expanding hospitality and tourism sector. (DPI and Delano Williams photos)

Sugar estates failing to meet targets will see changes – President Ali warns

1,704 fisherfolk in Region Six receive $255.6M grant – under $1.5B national cash grant

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US mortgage company used by Minister Rodrigues confirms ‘smooth, hassle-free’ access to loans for non-residents ‘Biggest Mashramani ever’ on the cards as – Launch set for January 16 preparations intensify — Tyndall at the Railway Courtyard SEE PAGE

President Dr. Irfaan Ali engaging the Board and senior management of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) during a high-level meeting, alongside key Cabinet officials and the Corporation’s chief executive, where he made it clear that every estate will be held accountable for achieving its targets, and that, beginning with the first crop of 2026, those that fail to do so will see changes. (Office of the President Photo)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, January 11, 2026

AG signals major criminal justice reforms as government backs jury regulation overhaul

ATTORNEY GENERAL and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall SC, on Thursday, underscored the government’s commitment to modernising Guyana’s criminal justice system, announcing sweeping legislative reforms, including plans to regulate juries and replace outdated evidence laws. Nandlall delivered feature remarks at a simple handing-over ceremony under the United Nations Development Programme-funded Partnership of the Caribbean and the European Union on Justice (PACE Justice) Programme, held at UN House on Duke Street, Kingston, Georgetown. Addressing an audience that included Chancellor of

the Judiciary (ag) Roxane George-Wiltshire SC, representatives of the European Union, senior justice sector officials and members of the media, the Attorney General described the initiative as timely, noting that criminal justice systems across the Caribbean are undergoing deep scrutiny and reform. “The Administration of Criminal Justice in the Caribbean is undergoing tremendous scrutiny, examination, introspection and a revamp,” Nandlall said, explaining that regional heads of government have identified criminal justice reform as essential to social advancement and economic prosperity. He cautioned that crime has become a major regional concern, noting that it is now

regarded as “a public health hazard” across the Caribbean and referenced developments in Guyana’s western neighbour, Venezuela, to illustrate the destabilising effects of organised crime. Nandlall stressed that while Guyana is experiencing significant economic and infrastructural growth, justice sector reform must remain a priority. “The Administration of Justice is the foundation upon which all of that takes place,” he said, adding that the government remains committed to ensuring that “the rule of law is adhered to and ensures that crime doesn’t overwhelm us.” The Attorney General announced that a series of major legislative interventions are

Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC planned for the year, including the repeal of Guyana’s colonial-era evidence law. “Our evidence law is an 1893 legislation from the United Kingdom… clearly out of sync with modern realities,” he said. “We are going to repeal that and bring in a completely new evidence bill.” He also revealed that discussions are ongoing with the Chancellor regarding reforms to jury trials. “The Chancellor and I are discussing some type of statutory framework to regulate juries and the way juries function,” Nandlall disclosed, alongside proposed legislation on judge-alone trials and alternative sentencing. Further reforms include a completed review of the Summary Jurisdiction (Offences) Act, aimed at repealing outdated offences without waiting for judicial intervention. “We can aggressively and proactively do that,” he said. Nandlall praised the judiciary for its leadership and acknowledged the executive’s role in supporting reform efforts, noting that the government “stands ready and able to support every single initiative that will ensure access to justice.” He also highlighted in-

vestments in infrastructure and technology, including the donation of computer and printer systems to the Guyana Police Force, as part of a push to eliminate handwritten records and move towards a paperless justice system. Jury trials in Guyana have their roots in English common law and were inherited during the colonial period. They are primarily governed by the Criminal Law (Procedure) Act, Chapter 10:01, which outlines how jurors are summoned, empanelled and how verdicts are delivered in indictable criminal matters before the High Court. While jury trials have long been viewed as a cornerstone of criminal justice, concerns over delays, jury management and efficiency have fuelled ongoing discussions on reform, including the possible expansion of judge-alone trials. Since taking office in 2020, the government has invested heavily in the justice system, including building new courts, renovating existing facilities, hiring additional judges, magistrates, and support staff, and introducing modern technology to streamline processes and improve efficiency.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, January 11, 2026

AC Marriott reflects ‘ambition, confidence in Guyana’s future’ – President Ali

- US$50M facility creates 250 permanent jobs, with 98 per cent filled by Guyanese staff

By Feona Morrison PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali on Saturday said the opening of the AC Marriott Hotel at Ogle, East Coast Demerara (ECD), is a powerful reflection of confidence in Guyana’s economy and a symbol of the country’s deliberate development path. “This magnificent hotel that has been erected here represents ambition taking form, and belief becoming visible,” President Ali said, adding that the building “speaks clearly about the Guyana we are shaping intentionally, confidently, and without apology.” The President linked the growth of high-end hospitality to significant increases in air traffic and international connectivity over the past four years. Citing official figures, he said arriving passenger traffic increased by close to 450 per cent, international landings grew by 254 per cent and the number of aircraft servicing Guyana expanded by more than 400 per cent. He also noted that international carriers grew by 220 per cent, and des-

decade. “That did not happen by accident. It happened because we’re taking a deliberate step in using technology and advances in technology to be our partner in crime fighting and security,” he said. President Ali said his government is actively partnering with technology, innovation, communities and people to ensure a stable investment climate. “Your investment depends heavily on a stable and secure environment,”

SIGNIFICANT & TIMELY Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues, said the opening of the AC Marriott Hotel marks a significant and timely addition to Guyana’s hospitality sector and reflects growing global confidence in the country’s tourism industry. “It’s a pleasure to join you this evening for the official opening of the AC Marriott Hotel, an important and timely addition to Guyana’s hospitality landscape,” Ro-

Dignitaries, investors, and guests gather to celebrate the official opening of the AC Marriott Hotel at Ogle (Delano Williams photos)

President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Chairman of Trinuyana Investments Inc., John Aboud commemorate the opening of the AC Marriott Hotel tinations served increased by 184 per cent, with total traffic across all ports of entry expected to surpass 1.2 million in 2025. “Those are some numbers that speak for itself,” President Ali said, noting that Guyana is operating in “a constantly changing world” where development and business approaches must evolve. He emphasised that investor confidence depends heavily on security and stability, stressing that Guyana currently records its lowest crime levels in the past

“Government sees itself as a policy framework to advance the prosperity of our people and the development of our business landscape,” he said, adding that the administration is ready to embrace ideas from the private sector. Responding to questions about the hotel’s location near the Eugene F. Correia International Airport at Ogle, President Ali said development should not be delayed in pursuit of perfection. “Development does

he told stakeholders. Addressing concerns about the growing number of hotels entering the market, Dr. Ali assured investors of the government’s support and collaboration. “I want you to be confident; to know that you’re with a government that will sit with all of the hotels, resorts and operators,” he said, noting plans to develop a joint strategy focused on marketing and targeted tourism. He reiterated that the government sees itself as a facilitator of growth.

not wait for perfection; development creates its own momentum,” he said. “Investment creates infrastructure, and confidence creates capacity.” He noted that flights are already landing at the Eugene F. Correia International Airport and said the airport will continue to evolve. “The airport will not remain a municipal airport,” he stated. The President said the hotel exists because its investors recognised both present realities and future potential. “They did not wait for expansion; they anticipated. They did not hesitate to believe. And belief is the most powerful economic force of all.” President Ali underscored that tourism is a “foundational and fundamental pillar” of Guyana’s future and must be supported by quality infrastructure, healthcare, education and environment. “Guyana’s future is not something we wait for,” he said. “It is something we construct, and we are constructing it with purpose.”

drigues said, noting that the occasion goes beyond the opening of a new facility. She said the presence of a globally respected brand sends a strong signal internationally that “Guyana is ready, competitive, and open for business. Rodrigues said tourism has been identified as a strategic pillar of Guyana’s economic diversification agenda over the next five years, with the potential to create jobs, empower communities and generate opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses. “The opening of this hotel is a clear example of that strategy in action,” she said. Highlighting recent performance, Rodrigues said Guyana recorded a “record-breaking number of visitor arrivals” in 2025 and described tourism as “one of the main drivers of inclusive economic growth.” She outlined an ambitious vision for the sector, noting, “By 2030, we are aiming to welcome one million visitors annually, along with three million passengers.” The minister said the AC

President Dr. Irfaan Ali addressing guests during the official commissioning of the AC Marriott Hotel Marriott supports this objective by expanding room stock and strengthening Guyana’s capacity to host international conferences and business events. She noted that 600 hotel rooms were added over the past five years, with 15 hotels currently under construction, expected to add close to 2,000 rooms. “The AC Marriott Hotel embodies the standards, innovation and confidence that will define the next phase of Guyana’s tourism journey,” Rodrigues said, congratulating investors and reaffirming that the government remains “a strong and reliable partner” in supporting continued growth. John Aboud, Chairman of Trinuyana Investment Inc, said the AC Marriott Hotel at Ogle stands as a tangible commitment to Guyana’s development vision, while highlighting its employment impact and broader investment plans. A FUSION OF INVESTOR GROUPS Addressing the opening ceremony, Aboud said the project represents “the fusion of our investor groups from both Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago,” and expressed gratitude to the people of Guyana “for allowing us to share their vision by demonstrating our actions in this project.” He noted that the hotel forms part of a wider development planned for 20 acres of land acquired five years ago, describing it as “a promise made to the President” that is now being executed. Aboud also acknowledged several state agencies for their role in facilitating the project, stating their “advice, guidance and mentorship speak volumes, and without their direction,

this could not have happened.” Highlighting employment, Aboud said the development will permanently employ approximately 250 people, with “98 per cent of Guyanese,” many of whom have undergone and continue to undergo “rigorous training in the hospitality sector.” He described the AC Marriott as “a world-class hotel that is comparable to the best in the world,” adding that this was “no exaggeration.” Aboud said the investment reflects “the serenity of the rhythm of the water,” symbolising the strong relationship between Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago. He concluded by assuring that the investor group’s confidence in Guyana will further energise the group as it further explores new investment opportunities in Guyana. The hotel is part of a US$200 million overall investment. In early 2022, Trinuyana Investments Inc. signed a contract with China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) Limited for the construction of the four-star, 150- room hotel. Trinuyana Investments Inc. is a conglomerate of Guyanese and Trinidadian investors. Some of the amenities of the new facility include a swimming pool, fitness room, lounge, library, media salon, meeting room, reception area, a courtyard and an outdoor area. Paved parking lots, drive aisles and site roads are situated north of the building. Also present at the opening were government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and investors.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, January 11, 2026

US mortgage company used by Minister Rodrigues confirms ‘smooth, hassle-free’ access to loans for non-residents

UNITED States mortgage company, A&D Mortgage, which was used by Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues, to finance her property in the US, has confirmed that they have provisions to ensure “smooth, hassle-free” access to loans for non-residents. Minister Rodrigues has been the subject of attacks by opposition elements, including US-indicted businessman and WIN leader, Azruddin Mohamed, despite her confirmation that assets overseas and locally have been declared and lawfully acquired. The minister’s rejection of the attempts to besmirch her character was further buttressed by A&D Mortgage’s confirmation that it is simple for persons who reside outside of Guyana, to access loans. The Stabroek News in an article published in its Saturday, January 10, 2025 edition, with the headline, “US mortgage company used by Rodrigues says non-residents facility requires reference from local bank, US account,” quoted the company as saying: “We do offer mortgages to foreign nationals, without a green card, without residency, no credit score…

you know DSC (debt service coverage) to buy investment property.” The Stabroek News further reported that a representative explained that the facility is a special mortgage programme and it was simple, as the foreign national would need a credit reference from their local bank, among other basic things. “Full Doc Foreign National mortgage program is designed for individuals living abroad who are interested in purchasing or refinancing investment property in the US. This program features a flexible and efficient alternative documentation process and realistic guidelines, which makes it easier for foreign borrowers to qualify for a loan and ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience,” the bank stated on its website. Minister Rodrigues, in a recent response to allegations from Mohamed, said the US-indicted businessman has taken public information and “twisted it to satisfy his own perverse narrative.” Minister Rodrigues, had once again, said that as a Minister of Government, she is classified as a Politically Exposed Person (PEP) and as such, every bank and financial institution in the civilised world demands step-by-step

proof of funds when a transaction is being done. The minister said that the “desperate” narrative being perpetuated by Mohamed that her assets are funded by illicit activities is “libellous

hamed against her, she firstly said two of her properties in the state of Florida can be independently verified since they form part of the public record. The third address, 8601 NW 46th Ct. Lauder-

2024, showing the date and value of the mortgage. The property is rented, and the mortgage is being serviced by the rental income, she clarified. “All of this is public re-

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues

and simply false.” She then drew a sharp contrast between herself and Mohamed, stating: “Imagine the irony of the Mohameds, accused by international organisations of drug trafficking, money laundering, gold smuggling and links to Hezbollah and other terrorist organisations, compounded by a US indictment, accusing me of wrong-doing.” In directly addressing the allegations made by Mo-

hill, FL is that of a property owned by a company of which she has shares. Secondly, in contrast to Mohamed’s claim that the property was purchased in full on March 11, 2024, the minister said that the property was, in fact, purchased with a mortgage from a US Financial Institution, AD Mortgage. As evidence, she has made public her annual tax and interest statement for

cord in the State of Florida and could have been easily verified by Azruddin Mohamed. He chose instead to intentionally mislead the public,” she said. The minister went on to say that Mohamed has repeatedly and wrongly equated her assets to her public service salary, deeming his efforts as “asinine.” “This is an unfair and asinine comparison that completely disregards how a person leverages equity to access loans from the banking system. In addition to my public service salary, I receive rental income from other properties and proceeds

from our family businesses,” she said. In the interest of transparency and to remove any doubt as to her source of funds, the minister is published the Certificates of Title for Lots 1242 and 1243 Peter’s Hall, which prove that she acquired mortgages on those properties when they were purchased. She also denied owning the Herstelling property where she currently resides, stating that the title shows it was acquired in 2016, prior to her entry into government. She also denied owning a gas station located at 224 Camp and New Market Streets in Georgetown. “This is also not true,” the minister said, noting that the gas station has been owned by Shell Antilles and Guianas Limited since 1962 and never changed ownership. “The transport for this property is part of the public record and can be easily verified. My partner is the operator of this establishment. We do not own any of the assets on that property,” Rodrigues said. She added: “This clearly establishes a pattern of lies peddled by Azruddin Mohamed to cause public confusion and to distract from his own criminality. While Azruddin Mohamed has deceived people about his business, his income and his life, I can produce evidence to clear my good name.”

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, January 11, 2026

Sugar estates failing to meet targets will see changes – President Ali warns

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali has issued a stern warning to the management of Guyana’s sugar estates, making it clear that underperformance will no longer be tolerated as the industry moves into 2026. In a post on his official Facebook page on Saturday, the President disclosed that he met earlier in the day with the Board of Directors and senior management of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), during which he expressed dissatisfaction with the estates’ failure to achieve their 2025 production targets. He advised management that every estate will be held accountable and that, beginning with the first crop of 2026, estates that fail to meet their targets “will see changes.” Senior Minister with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh; Minister of the Public Service, Government Efficiency, and Implementation, Zulfikar Ally and GuySuCo’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Paul Cheong were also at the meeting.

The warning comes against the backdrop of another disappointing year for GuySuCo. According to media reports, the corporation closed 2025 with production of approximately 59,200 metric tonnes of sugar, falling short of even its already reduced final-crop target of 60,000 metric tonnes. That figure is also significantly below the revised 2025 target of 70,000 metric tonnes and far off the original target of 80,000 metric tonnes. President Ali had signalled this tougher, results-driven posture as recently as November last year, cautioning that entrenched mismanagement within GuySuCo must be eliminated if the industry is to return to sustainable production levels. Speaking at a press conference in Region Six, he stressed that while sugar remains vital to the regional economy, continued state investment cannot be divorced from performance. “Sugar is an important part of the economy here in

President, Dr Irfaan Ali (second from left) flanked by Senior Minister with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh; Minister of the Public Service, Government Efficiency, and Implementation, Zulfikar Ally and GuySuCo’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Paul Cheong were also at the meeting Region Six, and we’re going to continue to invest, but we have to get the return on our investment,” the President said. He underscored the importance of boosting output

at key estates, noting specifically that increased production at Albion and Rosehall is essential to the industry’s recovery. As part of the broader effort to revitalise the sec-

tor, President Ali revealed that international technical support will be brought in to strengthen operations and improve efficiency across the estates. He also indicated that

the government intends to deepen engagement with private cane farmers as part of a more inclusive and performance-oriented approach to rebuilding the sugar industry.

‘Biggest Mashramani ever’ on the cards as preparations intensify - Tyndall – Launch set for January 16 at the Railway Courtyard

THE Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport is moving full steam ahead with preparations for what is expected to be the largest Mashramani celebration in Guyana’s history, according to Director of National Events, Andrew Tyndall. In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Tyndall revealed that Mashramani 2026 will officially kick off at the Railway Courtyard on January 16, with a major highlight being the unveiling of band costumes—a first for the festival’s launch. He said the expanded programme, which will include activities across multiple regions, aligns with President, Dr Irfaan Ali’s vision of positioning Guyana as a premier entertainment destination in the region. With several elements of this year’s festivities already underway, Tyndall noted that planning for Mashramani has been months in the making. “We are excited about Mashramani 2026. We believe this will be the biggest Mashramani ever to date. The ministry is fully locked in, putting all our energy into delivering a successful Mashramani season to the people of Guyana and to visitors who will be here during that period,” he said. This year’s official launch will take place at the Railway

Courtyard, recently commissioned by President Ali as the country’s primary cultural space. “Preparations are advanced for Mashramani 2026. The official launch of Mashramani will be held next week, Friday the 16th of January, at the Railway Courtyard, which is the new cultural space that His Excellency launched last December,” Tyndall explained. For the first time, the launch will feature costumes from all bands participating in the Costume and Float Parade. “That speaks to the advanced stage of preparation, because most, if not all of the bands have already begun and are well into costume preparation. We will be able to reveal those costumes to the public next Friday,” he said. The ministry is also putting final touches on several major events scheduled for later in the month, many of which are being staged in collaboration with key stakeholders. “We are preparing for our first events. On the 23rd we have Banks on the Avenue, and on the 24th we have a concert in New Amsterdam,” Tyndall noted. Traditional Mashramani elements are also making a comeback this year. Among them is Mash Night, where the King and Queen of the Bands,

along with individual band pieces, will be judged. “We are also reintroducing the Masquerade Jamboree as part of the ministry’s efforts to preserve and promote the Masquerade art form,” Tyndall added. He stressed that the expanded Mashramani calendar is closely tied to broader national development and tourism goals. “If you have been following President Ali’s pronounce-

ments, his vision is for Guyana to become the premier entertainment destination in this part of the world, including the Caribbean and Latin America. We plan with that vision in mind,” Tyndall said. He also pointed to strong collaboration between the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the Ministry of Tourism, noting that Mashramani will feature prominently on the national tourism calendar for 2026.

Mashramani 2026 full calendar of events

“There is strong synergy between the two ministries to ensure that Mashramani is marketed to the world,” he said. At its core, Tyndall emphasised, Mashramani remains a celebration of the Guyanese people. He encouraged members of the diaspora to return home for the festivities and urged Guyanese nationwide to support events happening in

their regions. “The events are free, and activities will be held in almost all regions. Wherever you are, we encourage you to support Mashramani when the events come to your region,” he said, adding that all activities will be well advertised in advance. “Mashramani is a vibe, and it is a Guyanese thing,” Tyndall added.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, January 11, 2026

Far-reaching effects of strategic investments

THE announcement by President Irfaan Ali about the direct and spinoff benefits of the new Hope-like Canal in Region Five marks an important step in Guyana's agricultural growth. It shows that smart public investment is key to national progress. This major infrastructure project will open up 55,000 acres of new farmland, and significantly improve drainage and irrigation for 186,000 acres of existing agriculture between Mahaica and Abary. This will change the economic landscape of the Mahaica-Berbice region.

The scale and vision of this plan deserve recognition. By improving drainage for 66,000 acres from Mahaica to Mahaicony, and another 120,000 acres from Mahaicony to Abary, the government is not just building canals; it is creating paths to success for many farming families. Importantly, this project will bring previously unreachable lands into production, benefiting small farmers who have often missed out on agricultural chances due to poor drainage and irrigation. This effort to make land more accessible shows the administration’s commit-

ment to development and empowerment at the local level. Modelling this project after the Hope Canal is a wise choice. Since it opened in 2014, the original Hope Canal has been a crucial engineering success, and a long-term solution to flooding issues. The government's plan to replicate this success in Regions Three, Five, and Six shows how effective policymaking can be. Contracts worth about $10 billion have already been awarded, with a total investment of $20 billion projected for Region Five alone. The administration

is supporting its agricultural goals with significant funding that will benefit future generations. This canal project is happening at a key moment in Guyana's effort to become the food basket of the Caribbean. Region Five is returning to its role as the country’s largest agriculture-producing area, and this investment will strengthen that position while helping CARICOM reduce the region's food-import bill. Improved drainage and irrigation will make farming more resilient to climate changes, safeguard livelihoods during floods

and droughts, and allow farmers to boost productivity across crop cycles. President Ali's focus on the connection between public investment and national development is very clear. Spending on infrastructure is not just a cost; it's an investment that leads to greater agricultural output, rising land values, better food security, and stronger rural livelihoods. When combined with the government's $46 billion housing plan for the region, and ongoing support through fertiliser subsidies, technical help, and improved farm-to-market roads, the New Hope-like

Canal becomes part of a broad development strategy that could lift thousands of families from basic survival to success. As Region Five aims to become the livestock capital of the Caribbean while increasing rice, vegetable, and livestock production, this drainage and irrigation investment lays the groundwork for more sustainable farming. The future of agriculture in Mahaica-Berbice looks promising, and the positive effects will spread across Guyana and the Caribbean for many years.

ON Thursday evening, I went to the Night of Reflection for the late CEO of the Georgetown Hospital, Michael Khan, at the Yesu Persaud Learning Centre. I was happy to know where it was held because I live two minutes’ drive away from UG. But it was my cousin William Cox who told me that the Yesu Persaud Learning Centre was inside the Georgetown Hospital and not at UG. I never knew about this place. I parked on the western parapet of the eastern part of Thomas Street at the junction with New Market Street. There was a group of medical students at the corner, so I sought direction. One of them told me I can’t miss it. It is a large building and she pointed to it. I took the New Market Street entrance and went southward towards this large building. But the place was shut. This couldn’t be it. I yelled out to

a passing gentleman where is the Yesu Persaud Learning Centre? He said I have to come out of the compound where I was and take another pathway. I asked for further direction and found the place. It is indeed a large structure named unquestionably after a Guyanese hero. This was not the Georgetown Hospital where my mother died in 1985 because of a lack of service. The Georgetown Hospital that I was in last Thursday evening bore absolutely no resemblance to the miserable place my mother died in. If you saw the hospital in 1985 and you look at it in 2025, it is if they tore that old structure down and put up a brand new edifice. One of the shining moments of 2025 in Guyana was the Georgetown Hospital that is certainly the best hospital in Guyana and one of the best in the region. Whether you like the government or not,

last year, the hospital stood out as an achievement for the country. Last year, some major surgical procedures took place at the hospital that five years ago, Guyanese had to go outside to get. In the areas of neurosurgery, orthopaedics and heart treatment, the hospital has turned the corner. I would recommend that if you are sick, then make the Georgetown Hospital your first stop. Naturally, there will be a long queue. Georgetown has a much larger percentage of people than any other area in the entire country. You can’t expect the line to be short, as it will be in a regional hospital, say Enmore for instance. But wait in the line and you get modern medical service that will cost you a fortune at the private hospitals. Just one example should suffice. The insertion of just one stent in the treatment of the heart runs into hundreds of

thousands of dollars at private institutions. Three stents will cost about a million dollars. Any amount of stents is free at the Georgetown Hospital. In the compound where I live in Turkeyen, I got to know one of the security personnel while walking my dog. He showed me a huge growth on his back. He said a private doctor was charging him $300, 000. I intervened and he got it done freely at the Georgetown Hospital. I would like to thank Dr Delon Ramnarine of the General Surgery Department, who facilitated me. The second brightest spot in Guyana last year was the Bharrat Jagdeo River Bridge. This is a kind of bridge you see in any developed country and it showcases the bril-

liance of Chinese engineering. This is one Guyanese who welcomed the arrival of Chinese trade and investment endeavours in Guyana. Coming in at third place is the massive, impressive infrastructural landscape of this country from last year that made Guyana look good. I live at Turkeyen and when my daughter visited last year, I didn’t have to face the traffic hassles that begin from Houston. We took the newly constructed Ogle highway. Business people going way up the East Bank or to the Cheddi Jagan Airport do not have to use Sheriff Street and Georgetown any longer. Coming at fourth place is a bright spot in 2025 that is personal to me. I live on the Railway Embankment. Before last year, I dread-

ed driving on that roadway. I look out of my window and saw massive traffic jams each day with crazy manifestations of road rage, especially at the Giftland entrance and at the Movietowne Road. That nightmare is gone. The highway has been widened with a long median. This is just one example of how in 2025, the totality of the horizon in Guyana has changed so extensively and profoundly that one can speak of a brand-new Guyana. In terms of public works, new Guyana left old Guyana in 2025 forever. 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.

The inviting looks of 2025

Maduro in Manhattan, Azruddin in Denial

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, January 11, 2026

LAST week, the extradition proceedings of Azruddin and Nazar “Shell” Mohamed teetered between the High Court and the Magistrate’s Court, landing in a month-long adjournment that looks less like routine case management and more like another lucky pause in a frantic campaign to avert the inevitable. Azruddin could use the coming weeks to prepare himself for an appointment in a Florida courtroom and tune out the empty reassurances of his legal entourage. I suspect, however, that he will continue to make wild accusations against Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha and Tourism Minister Susan Rodrigues, without offering a single verifiable fact to sustain the charge. If this posture feels familiar, it is because the hemisphere has just watched a far more dramatic version of the same instinct play out in Venezuela with Nicolás Maduro. In a recent Washington Post investigative report, 11 seasoned journalists painted a vivid picture of the Venezuelan strongman who failed to read the writing on the wall. As U.S. warships edged closer and the rhetoric from Washington hardened, intermediaries shuttled between Caracas, Rome, Moscow, Doha and Ankara, frantically trying to carve out a safe exit

ramp for Maduro, a man who had long since exhausted the patience of his own people and the wider world. The Post reports that on Christmas Eve in Vatican City, a Cardinal with decades of diplomatic experience pleaded with an American envoy for restraint, relaying that Russia was prepared to receive Maduro with guarantees for his safety and wealth. The offer, in essence, was exile with his money and his life. Maduro prevaricated, and in the end, refused to step aside. He read signals as invitations to dance instead of warnings to leave the floor. He even badly misread a conversation with President Donald Trump. Days later, U.S. special forces ended all his illusions in a single, brutal operation, and the Venezuelan strongman found himself on a plane to New York, headed not for a villa in Russia but for a holding cell in Manhattan. The striking thing about Maduro’s story is what it reveals about the psychology of power when the bill comes due. Maduro was offered multiple “soft landings” and rejected them all, convinced that history, markets and US mid-term elections would somehow conspire to save him. He gambled that the United States would blink first. He gambled wrong.

What brought him undone, finally, was not a lack of options but a surplus of hubris, an unnamed insider told the Post. Hubris is also the defining note of the Azruddin saga. Here is a family facing an 11-count federal indictment, accused of siphoning billions from the Guyanese state and people, and yet they behave as though they are the aggrieved party in some elaborate conspiracy scripted on Lamaha Street. Their answer is to attack the character of sitting ministers, to suggest that the real criminals are the ones building roads, draining farmlands, helping rice farmers and fisherfolk weather the rise and fluctuations of global market prices and trying to grow Guyana’s lucrative tourism sector. In the weeks before his arrest and rendition to New York, Maduro was offered exile in Russia and Turkey, reassured that he could keep his family intact and his fortune accessible. He could not bring himself to trust any deal that did not leave him in Miraflores Palace. So, he sat tight, “out there dancing,” as one observer put it, while the storm gathered just off his coast. The Mohameds are engaged in a smaller, but no less revealing, version of that same frantic dance. They,

too, have been given choices: co-operate with due process, contest the indictment in court, or continue to wage a propaganda war at home that may play well on Facebook, but will carry no weight in front of a federal judge. Maduro misread the Americans’ endgame because he believed that his control of the security services and his alliances abroad made him indispensable. He thought he was too central to the regional equation to be removed. The Mohameds appear to labour under a similar illusion. They apparently believe that their money, their philanthropy, their political ventures and their ability to

rent crowds have made them too embedded in Guyanese public life to be marched onto a plane. The lesson from Caracas to Georgetown is that when a powerful state has put your name on an indictment, indispensability is a myth you tell yourself on the way to arraignment. The tragedy, for both the Maduros and the Mohameds, is that the end was visible long before it arrived. Maduro was warned that there was an “easy way and a hard way.” He chose the hard way and wound up in a detention centre a hemisphere away from the stage on which he once strutted. Azruddin now stands at

a similar fork in the road. He can use this adjournment to steady himself, respect the gravity of the charges, and face his day in court without dragging the rest of the country through the mud. Or he can keep dancing, keep smearing, and keep mistaking applause in the comments section for a shield against a system that does not stop because a defendant has mastered the art of manipulation. 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.

What Nazar Mohamed said

SOMETHING must be wrong with Nazar Mohamed. The elderly gentleman must be losing his senses to think that Guyanese are so gullible as to accept his version of events wholeheartedly without question. And, he must think that Guyanese are fools and do not comprehend the magnitude of what his family or criminal enterprise are seeking to avoid in the US. He must be coy to think that writing a letter, which the world suspects he did not pen, would get him sympathy from the public. Firstly, let us be clear about one thing. Nazar and Azruddin Mohamed are alleged criminals and reportedly run a large criminal enterprise in Guyana and further afield. They might not be the ones getting their hands dirty in the murky waters, but they

allegedly give orders and pass instructions. They use religion as a rag to hide their nefarious affairs and dealings with the underworld. They use poor and needy ‘black’ or Afro-Guyanese and Amerindian people, as well as other people, to achieve their own goals and avoid facing the long arm of the State and US justice, which, incidentally, is waiting for them patiently in the developed world. Nazar Mohamed could cry “persecution” as loudly and as much as he wants, no one would believe or give him the time of day except for his friends with monetary benefits in the private media. Make no bones about it, the law is now catching up with the Mohameds and is exposing everything that they have concealed from the public’s eyes for years. When one enters politics,

one enters the ring, and one must roll with the punches that come one’s way. So, Nazar should stop whining and whimpering. The time he took to dictate that fairytale fantasy in the press, he should be praying and preparing for the eventuality, which, in his case, is almost unavoidable. Secondly, Azruddin Mohamed is no saint. He is no poster boy for innocence or justice. In fact, he is a shady or dark businessman with an entitled disposition. He used charity to get fame and popularity. He used the stories of the poor to get into politics; not to help. Let’s be clear, he is no political leader, and the Guyanese public did not entrust him with “exposing corruption” as he likes to say when reading from a prompter or card. He is waging war with his little ex-friends and associates who stopped playing

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, January 11, 2026

with him because they found out who he really is. He is using WIN to attack the government, private businesses and personalities, as the public has witnessed as of late. If he or Nazar were honest and people who had integrity, they would surrender and fully cooperate with the US. If they had any decency, they would face the extradition proceedings and surrender instead of playing a game of chess and Chinese checkers with the law and government. They would prove their innocence for the world and the entire nation to see. They would have the final laugh and come back into politics if they desire. Azruddin wants to be president, but he is yet to understand the burden to which he aspires. Being president of a country is no easy feat; it requires intelligence

and understanding. Nazar must know that Azruddin has seemingly neither any other quality that the office requires. The public knows this, and that is why he is in opposition. So, what is the purpose of writing a letter when the public has seen past the carefully choreographed and curated image of the Mohameds? Thirdly, the laws of Guyana and the US are not asses. They, the Mohameds, know what is at stake. So, they gamble with the law, in the hope that they will win and stay untouched by justice. But one can evade the law, but when justice is ready, it is swift, clean and unrelenting. Ill-gotten wealth will help with frustrating the law, but it will surely find a way to exact its pound of flesh, as we have seen time and time again. Be certain, the Mohameds

will not win this game against the political establishment and government, no matter how much they try. Surely, Nazar knows that he must spend his time trying to convince the courts as opposed to trying to convince the public. WIN is a social media party and not serious about Guyanese and good governance. Finally, Nazar wasted his time dictating that missive. He allowed himself to be a victim and face persecution. He allowed Azruddin to make a fool out of himself. That letter was a diatribe of alternative facts. 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.

From Promise to Impact: Oil and Gas in Guyana’s 2026 Outlook

IN 2026, Guyana aims to deliver concrete economic growth, business opportunities, and improvements for its citizens, as its energy sector moves from planning to real-world implementation. Years of investment and offshore project development are now set to produce measurable results, marking a decisive shift toward tangible impact. One of the most significant milestones anticipated in 2026 is Guyana’s oil production capacity surpassing the one-million-barrel-per-day mark. This surge is being driven by the Uaru development, the fifth offshore project in the Stabroek Block, which is expected to begin production, adding around 250,000 barrels per day. Combined with the on-

going safe optimisation of existing fields such as Yellowtail, this expansion could lift national output to well over one million barrels per day by late 2026. Beyond oil, 2026 may usher in a new frontier for natural gas development. The Longtail project, ExxonMobil’s proposed eighth offshore venture and the first designed to tap non-associated gas, is expected to undergo government review and potential approval. If advanced, Longtail could bring significant volumes of both condensate and natural gas, laying the groundwork for expanded industrial gas utilisation and positioning gas as a central pillar of Guyana’s energy mix. Exploration activity is also expected to continue expanding beyond the Sta-

broek Block. Newly awarded shallow-water blocks S4 and S7, operated by international groups including TotalEnergies alongside Petronas and QatarEnergy, as well as Ghana’s Cybele Energy, are slated to enter their study phases in 2026. These efforts will include seismic acquisition and early technical assessments, which signal a broader push to identify new resources outside the country’s established offshore developments. Onshore, the highly anticipated Gas-to-Energy project remains a major strategic focus for 2026. Government projections currently target the commissioning of key components, including the 300-megawatt gas-fired power plant and the natural gas liquids separation facility, by the fourth quarter of the year.

Once operational, the project is expected to reduce electricity costs, improve reliability, and lower emissions, delivering more competitive energy pricing for households and industries. Linked to this push are several industrial ventures expected to advance this year. These include anticipated contract awards for the natural gas liquids storage and marine offloading facility, an ammonia and urea plant, and a gas bottling company at Wales. Together, these facilities are intended to transform gas resources into marketable industrial products and domestic energy supplies, including more affordable cooking gas and agricultural inputs. Beyond production statistics and project timelines, 2026 is also shaping up to be

a pivotal year for local participation in the oil and gas sector. Guyana’s Local Content Secretariat is currently undertaking a data-driven review of the Local Content Act, using real spending patterns within the industry to assess where participation can be expanded across additional sectors. At the same time, the Government is moving to revise the legislation to introduce provisions that would allow Guyanese citizens to earn guaranteed, fixed returns from investments in machining and engineering services linked to oil and gas activity. Together, these measures signal a shift towards deeper, more inclusive local content implementation, aimed at ensuring that Guyanese workers, businesses, and investors are better positioned to benefit as the sector con-

tinues to scale. In short, 2026 is shaping up to be the year when plans translate into performance. The infrastructure laid over the past years is beginning to deliver energy security, industrial growth, and economic returns that extend beyond the oil and gas sector itself. As the industry deepens its imprint on Guyana’s development journey, success will increasingly be measured not just in barrels and pipelines, but in jobs created, businesses strengthened, and reliable energy delivered across the country. 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.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, January 11, 2026

GOAL outreach heads to Essequibo Islands as gov’t pushes accessible tertiary education

THE Government of Guyana continues to advance its drive for accessible and inclusive education, a focus that was highlighted on

Saturday as Minister of Education Sonia Parag spearheaded an outreach of the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) scholar-

ship programme in the Essequibo Islands, beginning with Wakenaam and set to continue in Leguan. The outreach aims to ex-

Minister of Education Sonia Parag engages with students during the GOAL scholarship outreach in the Essequibo Islands, as the government continues its push to take tertiary education opportunities directly to riverain communities

pand awareness and access to tertiary education opportunities for residents of riverine and hinterland communities, many of whom face geographic and infrastructural barriers to higher learning. In a brief social media statement on Saturday morning, Minister Parag explained that the visit forms part of a broader national effort to take educational opportunities directly to communities. “We are going to have

an outreach on the GOAL Scholarship Programme, which you know started in 2021,” the minister said, underscoring both the reach and the longevity of the initiative. Minister Parag also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that citizens in hard-to-reach areas are not left behind, stressing the importance of on-theground engagement. “I am very excited to come closer to the goals on

public service and education. And so, this morning we are going to go serve the people of Wakenaam. Make sure that they sign up, they register for the GOAL Scholarship,” she added. Launched in 2021, the GOAL programme was designed to expand access to online tertiary education and has since far exceeded its initial target of awarding 20,000 scholarships. The TURN TO PAGE 10

Dream, wish and hope for the new year

WE are now into the second week of the new year, some of us holding fast to the resolutions we may have made, others already breaking their resolve. We have our dreams for the year ahead, while hoping and praying for the best. But much of what we achieve will be dependent on the choices we make.

My particular dream, wish and hope for the future and this new year are fuelled by a conversation I had three weeks ago with a stranger at the Eye Clinic of the Georgetown Public Hospital. I cannot remember what sparked our chat, but I can certainly recall its content. My new ‘friend’ began to recount her growing years in an

abusive household, where her stepfather beat her, her mother and her younger brother regularly for no apparent reason. Her story was both touching and, at times, surprisingly amusing as she told of how she retaliated against this man’s cruelty and sought to bring the abuse to an end. “When my mother first married him, everything was

nice,” Lorraine told me. Her stepfather had no children of his own and, in those early years, treated her and her younger brother well. He was attentive to their mother and it was a happy home. However, things began to change after the birth of his own two children. “ Then he started beating me and meh brother fuh no reason”, she said. The situation deteriorated further when he began to beat her mother, a mild-mannered woman, with regularity. In an act of sheer mental torture, he announced that he would “beat meh mother every day when he comes home.” This meant the whole household awaited his arrival with trepidation. And her stepfather carried out his threat, removing his belt and proceeding to ‘rain blows’ on her mother, who was powerless to defend herself against a powerfully built man over six feet in height. What started us both laughing and repeating our Guyanese saying, ‘Ting fuh cry ya laugh,’ is how Lorraine, as a teenager by now and of sturdy build herself, resolved to take action to draw attention to the abuse and put an end to it. She revealed, on different occasions, a ‘ wild cane’ or a stout piece of greenheart wood and an assortment of bricks or bottles in their home. “Ah put dem to meh hand reach,” her tone reflecting both the bravery and fear

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, January 11, 2026

she felt then. As soon as her stepfather turned his back to hit her mother, she dealt him several heavy blows with her ‘ weapon’ and when he turned to attack her, she used either the bricks or the bottles to keep him at bay. Then she ran ‘ full pelt’ for the nearby police station, throwing herself to the ground when she got there and wailing that her stepfather had killed her mother. This tactic drew immediate attention from neighbours, who had for years known of the abuse but did little to help, and the police, who wasted no time heading to the house and apprehending the man. Her stepfather would be locked up, subsequently released and the abuse would resume. It finally ended when her mother, clearly emboldened by her daughter’s willingness to suffer increased abuse in her defence, finally gained the courage to charge her stepfather and place him before the courts. The jail sentence he received allowed her mother to leave the area and start a new life elsewhere. There was much more to this story and no doubt there are many more instances that do not end so well, where

children have been forced to become physically involved in fights between parents. In the majority of cases, action is taken by the child to protect a mother who is being abused. Experts warn us that children who witness domestic violence or are themselves abused are at serious risk of long-term physical and mental health problems. They are also at risk of being violent in their own future relationships, thus continuing the cycle of violence. So, my dream is that there will come a time when domestic violence no longer exists -- and a dream this surely is. My wish is that no child must be caught up in this web of abuse, that victims cease enduring it and use the legal methods at their disposal to get out of such relationships. And my hope is that in this new year, we will see a decline in incidents of domestic violence as victims learn to take back their power. 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.

GOAL outreach heads to Essequibo Islands as gov’t pushes accessible tertiary... FROM PAGE 9

initiative enables Guyanese to pursue qualifications ranging from certificates and diplomas to bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees, through partnerships with accredited local and international institutions. By removing traditional barriers such as cost and geography, the GOAL programme allows participants to study from their homes, regardless of location, making it a transformative tool for education access across Guyana. During the outreaches, Minister Parag and her team are engaging residents and

prospective students, providing critical information on registration procedures, programme offerings and the application process. This hands-on approach is particularly important for island and riverain communities where internet access and programme awareness may be limited. In 2025 alone, more than 9,000 new GOAL scholarships were awarded, reflecting the programme’s growing reach and impact. Since its inception, government investment in GOAL has totalled approximately $12.9 billion, sig-

nalling the administration’s strong emphasis on human capital development through education. The Essequibo Islands outreach reflects a renewed focus on equity and inclusion in national development. By taking information directly to communities such as Wakenaam and Leguan, the government aims to ensure that all Guyanese—regardless of geography—can benefit from educational opportunities that support personal advancement and national progress.

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1,704 fisherfolk in Region Six receive $255.6M grant

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, January 11, 2026

—under $1.5B national cash grant

Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha presenting a cheque to a fisherman

By Bebi Shafeah Oosman.

Another fisherman receives a cheque from Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha

A TOTAL of 1,704 fisherfolk in Region Six will benefit from the government’s $150,000 cash-grant initiative, translating to a $255.6 million investment in the regional fishing sector, as part of a wider $1.5 billion national payout to fisherfolk across Guyana. The announcement was reinforced on Saturday during distribution exercises at Albion, Corentyne, and the Number 66, Corentyne Co-op, where Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha

described the initiative as another clear demonstration of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government delivering on commitments made to working people. Minister Mustapha said that between 2020 and 2025, every major promise made by President, Dr Irfaan Ali has been honoured, with sustained support to fisherfolk remaining a priority area. “We recognise the important role that you are playing. We recognise that you are risking your life to bring in catches. Without you, the country can’t have enough

food, and we recognise that effort,” the minister said. He emphasised that the government is deliberately strengthening the fishing industry through targeted investments, including improved wharves, rehabilitated landing sites, upgraded lighting and sanitation facilities, and expanded opportunities nationwide. Mustapha also highlighted the parallel development of aquaculture, aimed at diversifying income streams, boosting food security and ensuring long-term sustainability of the sector.

“Our fisherfolk are among the hardest-working citizens of our nation,” he said, noting that they brave harsh conditions daily to feed the country while supporting their families and communities. The Agriculture Minister pointed to millions of dollars already invested to modernise landing sites across Guyana, including ongoing collaboration with the Number 66 Co-op Society. “Right across this country we have expended millions of dollars to improve landing sites. We have built wash-

THE Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), alongside the American Chamber of Commerce of Guyana (AMCHAM), will be hosting the third Tech Conference, under the theme “Operational Excellence Through Digital Transformation,” at the Georgetown Marriott Hotel, Kingston. As Guyana steps into a digital era, the conference aims to equip entrepreneurs, students and anyone interested in digital transformation and technological advancement, with the necessary tools and strategies needed to operate in a safe and competitive digital economy. Come January 29, 2026,

these persons can attend the conference that is aimed at providing a platform where businesses, experts, private sector and government can connect and see what is possible when they come together. Noting that feedback thus far has been tremendous, the Executive Director of the GMSA, Govindra Raghubansi, said this event is directly in tandem with the development agenda of the government to digitise public services. Recognising that many businesses have not become digitised or have not utilised Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) services and other tools to make their work

easier, Raghubansi highlighted that the goals of the conference are not only to promote digital adoption but to strengthen operational capabilities and showcase practical transformation pathways. AMCHAM’s role in all of this is to bring international credence to the conference, linking locals with international companies. “So, they’re bringing the international tech and we are going to be having mostly, in our membership at the GMSA, the local members. So, between the two, we’re seeing synergies here between international companies and local companies. Specifically, AMCHAM, as

you know, would be more American-based companies,” he explained. Raghubansi noted that collectively, the GMSA and AMCHAM have a total of 500 members between them. Alongside networking opportunities, attendees can expect insightful presentations, practical sessions and meaningful discussions led by local and international experts. In addition to AMCHAM, he mentioned that while there are still sponsors coming in, they have engaged major banks, all main cellular and service providers and every major player in the technology and manufacturing sector. Ti c k e t s f o r t h i s g o

GMSA, AMCHAM to host Tech Conference 2026

room facilities, put in lights, and worked closely with the Number 66 Co-op since I was Regional Chairman. I know for a fact that the potential you have here is great,” Mustapha stated. He also underscored improvements in safety and security, particularly through the installation of tracking devices on fishing vessels, enhancing monitoring, emergency response and communication while at sea. Looking ahead, Mustapha said that following the passage of this year’s national budget, fisherfolk will be

enabled to process their catch through the agro-processing sector, opening doors to value-added production, wider market access and increased earnings. Reaffirming the government’s position, the minister said the cash grant forms part of a broader development strategy for the sector. “That is why today you are being given a cash grant. We will continue to support you, we will continue to develop this industry and we will continue to invest in your industry and this country,” he pledged.

GMSA/ Facebook

for $1,000 for University Students, $3,000 for AMCHAM/ GMSA members, $5,000 for non-members, and $3,000 for companies

with five or more employees attending the conference. These can be purchased online or from the GMSA or AMCHAM offices.

Minister Ramraj visits model egg farm in Region Two

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, January 11, 2026

By Indrawattie Natram

MINISTER within the Ministry of Public Works, Madanlall Ramraj, on Saturday visited Dinesh Garaban’s egg farm at Walton Hall, Region Two, describing the operation as a clear blueprint for sustainable rural enterprise. The minister was accom-

panied by Regional Chairman Devin Mohan, Deputy Regional Executive Officer Omesh Sasenaryan, and other regional officials during the visit. Garaban operates a 5,000bird layer system, making the farm one of the most productive small-to medium-scale poultry operations on the Essequibo Coast. The farm

supplies 12 supermarkets, producing an average of 92 trays of eggs daily. Minister Ramraj said he was impressed by the level of efficiency and innovation on display, noting that the operation demonstrates how rural agriculture can be both profitable and environmentally responsible. Notably, the farm is the

Minister Ramraj and team collecting eggs at the farm

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Madanlall Ramraj displays freshly harvested papaw alongside Regional Chairman Devin Mohan, holding eggs produced at the Walton Hall farm, Region Two

only EPA-approved layer farm in the area, having met stringent standards for environmental protection, animal welfare, hygiene and food safety. This distinction, the minister noted, reflects the farmer’s strong commitment to best practices and longterm sustainability. According to Garaban, egg grading is done on site, ensuring quality control while minimising waste. Cracked or off-grade eggs are sold to bakeries, turning potential losses into value-added income. The farm also features locally designed automatic watering systems and care-

Garaban operates a 5,000-bird layer system, making the farm one of the most productive small- to medium-scale poultry operations on the Essequibo Coast

fully managed feed bins, with each bin supporting production using 68 bags of feed. About 95 per cent of the hens lay in locally crafted nesting boxes, reducing egg breakage and improving collection efficiency. Minister Ramraj pointed out that the housing and nesting systems used at the farm are now being replicated by at least five other farmers across Region Two, demonstrating that the model is both successful and scalable. An integrated farming approach is also employed, with poultry manure recycled as organic fertiliser for on-site gardens, reducing chemical input costs and improving soil health. This has resulted in the weekly harvest of approximately 400 pounds of papaw, further boosting the farm’s overall income. Garaban has expressed

a willingness to train young people and establish demonstration units at the facility. He noted that with a startup investment of approximately $7–8 million, similar systems can be developed, making them affordable, replicable, and capable of transforming youth participation in agriculture. During the visit, Minister Ramraj and Regional Chairman Mohan engaged directly with the operation, describing it as a practical example for aspiring farmers. The egg farm, officials said, illustrates how the right mix of innovation, support, and commitment can allow rural enterprises in Region Two to thrive— feeding communities, empowering youth, and strengthening Guyana’s agricultural future, one egg at a time.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, January 11, 2026

Hosororo Secondary School set to serve nearly 530 students as opening nears

THE long-awaited Hosororo Secondary School is poised to significantly expand access to secondary education in Guyana’s hinterland, with the state-ofthe-art institution set to accommodate at least 528 students from the communities in Region One. According to the Ministry of Education, the new secondary school will serve

approximately 475 students currently enrolled at the Hosororo Primary Top, along with 53 students from the Wauna Primary Top. In a Facebook post on Friday, the ministry confirmed that the facility will soon be ready to receive both students and teachers. A joint team from the Ministry of Education and the Regional Democratic

Council recently conducted a follow-up visit to the school compound to ensure that all systems and facilities are in place ahead of the opening. The Ministry said the development represents another concrete step in fulfilling the Government of Guyana’s commitment to ensuring every child has access to quality education, regardless of geographic location.

The Ministry said that with continued investments in education infrastructure across hinterland and riverine communities, Universal Secondary Education is steadily being realised in Guyana. The Hosororo Secondary School is expected to rank among the most advanced educational facilities in Guyana and the wider Caribbean. Contracts for the $2.6 billion The Hosororo Secondary School, Region One (Ministry of Education/ Facebook)

project were signed in 2023, and the campus features 29 classrooms, a fully equipped science centre, and a technical and vocational education and training (TVET) centre offering both industrial and home economics programmes. The complex also includes a student dormitory and visiting area, as well as duplex living quarters for teachers. In October last year, Minister of Education Sonia Parag visited the school

to assess progress and ensure the project remained on schedule. At the time, the contractors committed to completing the facility by January 24, 2026. Once operational, the Hosororo Secondary School is expected to transform educational opportunities for students in the North West District, reducing travel burdens on families and reinforcing the government’s broader push to deliver equitable, modern education nationwide.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, January 11, 2026

Government interventions continue to protect rice farmers —Ramraj

By Indrawattie Natram

MINISTER within the Ministry of Public Works Madanlall Ramraj has reaffirmed that the Government of Guyana has consistently stepped in to protect rice farmers through targeted and impactful measures aimed at safeguarding their livelihoods and ensuring the sustainability of the rice industry. The Minister made the disclosure during a meeting at the Anna Regina Town Council compound, where rice farmers gathered for the distribution of the $300 per bag paddy subsidy. The atmosphere at the engagement was one of relief and reassurance, as farmers welcomed the intervention. Addressing the gathering, Minister Ramraj underscored the government’s firm commitment to standing with farmers, particularly in times of market instability and rising production costs. Since 2020, he noted, the government has rolled out a series of strategic interventions designed to shield rice farmers from escalating input costs, volatile prices, and logistical challenges. These measures, supported by billions of dollars in public investment, have been critical in maintaining productivity and protecting farmers’ incomes. One of the most significant forms of assistance came through fertiliser support. As global prices surged, the government distributed urea fertiliser valued at $3.1 billion, from a total allocation of $3.8 billion, easing the financial burden on farmers and allowing uninterrupted cultivation. In addition, 19,164 bags of seed paddy, valued at $96.2 million, were provided to support planting, while chemical assistance totalling $3.9 million was extended to help farmers combat paddy bug infestations on dams and meres. To reduce post-harvest losses and improve grain quality, the government also invested heavily in infrastructure, constructing 12 drying floors across rice-producing regions at a cost exceeding $211 million. Minister Ramraj said the government’s decisive role was most evident during the first crop of 2025, when low market prices posed a serious threat to farmers’ livelihoods. With millers offering as little as $3,700 per bag, the government intervened with a $300 per bag subsidy, ensuring farmers received no less than $4,000 per bag. This move injected $1.9

Rice farmers gathered for the distribution of the $300 per bag paddy subsidy at the Anna Regina Town Council compound

billion into the sector and restored market stability. Additional support was extended specifically to Region Two, where the government purchased 71,075 bags of paddy valued at $244.2 million, preventing crops from being damaged in the fields due to harvesting and marketing challenges. Transportation constraints were also addressed through the Ministry of Public Works, with the removal of the ferry toll from Supenaam to Parika and the introduction of an additional ferry, significantly reducing the cost and time required to transport paddy out of the region. Looking ahead, Minister Ramraj said support has continued into the first crop of 2026, with seed paddy from the Rice Research Station in Burma being offered at subsidised rates—$4,000 per bag for C1 and $2,000 per bag for C11—resulting in estimated savings of $12 million for farmers. In Region Two alone, subsidies provided between 2024 and 2025 amounted to approximately $990 million, covering fertiliser, paddy price intervention, transportation, seed paddy, and chemical assistance. With the current $300 per bag subsidy, farmers across the region are set to benefit from more than $252 million in additional support. “Through these comprehensive interventions, the Government of Guyana continues to safeguard the rice industry, empower farmers, and reinforce national food security—ensuring that those who feed the nation are protected every step of the way,” Minister Ramraj said. Rice farmers in Region Two expressed appreciation for the assistance, thanking the government and President Dr. Irfaan Ali for the continued support extended to the sector.

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Madanlall Ramraj

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, January 11, 2026

Edghill pushes for January 26 deadline as utility delays stall Garnett Street works

MINISTER of Public Works Juan Edghill on Saturday conducted a series of site visits across Region Four, including inspections at Aubrey Barker Road, Sophia and Dennis Street, as the government intensi-

fies efforts to advance key infrastructural projects. A major focus of the minister’s visit was Garnett Street, Campbellville, where he assessed ongoing works and engaged contractors on persistent challenges hinder-

ing the project’s completion, chief among them, delays caused by the relocation of utility poles and cables. Speaking with residents and contractors during the afternoon site visit, Minister Edghill expressed satisfac-

tion with the quality of work being executed on Garnett Street, but made it clear that the pace must improve if the project is to meet its January 26 completion target. “The project time is the 26th of January. The team

Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill

here is doing good work. I have no problem with the quality of the work, but the work needs to move faster,” Edghill told the Guyana Chronicle. While acknowledging steady progress on construction, the minister pointed out that utility-related delays have repeatedly disrupted the project’s original timeline. He stressed that such obstacles can no longer be tolerated, particularly for projects that have already been ongoing for an extended period. “We have had issues with utilities, but this cannot continue to be a running problem. We have private utilities and we have public utilities,” Edghill said, adding pointedly, “One Communications and Digicel cannot hold up a government programme because they do not want to move a pole or they do not want to find the resources to move a cable.” According to the minister, utility relocation has taken months, despite repeated engagements, prompting government to issue firmer instructions to ensure progress.

Contractors, he said, have now been directed to move ahead if utilities fail to act within a three-day window. “It has been months we are waiting on them and I have just told the guys, if within three days they do not get it done, just move the pole,” Edghill stated. “Whatever the consequences, let them answer to the people because they are being paid for that service. We cannot hold up a government project for that.” Edghill emphasised that national infrastructural programmes must proceed in the public interest and that service providers have a responsibility to facilitate—not obstruct—development. The minister also addressed concerns raised by residents along Garnett Street, noting that prior communication was issued and accommodations were made, including temporary adjustments during GuyExpo, to minimise disruption. “The residents of Garnett Street have received notices. We did do some adjustments for the GuyExpo and we are getting back to work to do the drainage,” he explained. He said the next phase of work requires co-operation from residents, particularly with respect to day-time parking, to allow machinery full access to the roadway shoulders and drainage corridors. “It is a matter of them removing their day-time parking so that the machines can be able to work on the shoulders, get the drains installed, and we want to get out of here by the 26th of January. So those are the instructions,” Edghill said.

Current works ongoing at Garnett Street, Campbellville

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, January 11, 2026

ENGLISH RACING TIPS CHELMSFORD 09:42 hrs Sir Rodneyredblood 10:12 hrs Em Four 10:42 hrs Seraphic 11:12 hrs Night Of Magic 11:42 hrs Gaiety Musical 12:12 hrs Kongratied Wave 12:42 hrs Galaxy Wonder FONTWELL 09:00 hrs Manigod 09:30 hrs Roe And Co 10:00 hrs Queen’s Theatre 10:30 hrs Park Princess 11:00 hrs Happy Returns 11:30 hrs Alright Dai 12:00 hrs Kajikia IRISH RACING TIPS TURFFONTEIN 08:25 hrs Olivia’s Way 09:00 hrs Choisaanada 09:35 hrs Valentina Balducci 10:10 hrs Trust 10:45 hrs William Robertson 11:20 hrs Abound IRISH RACING TIPS PUNCHESTOWN 08:20 hrs John The Diva 08:50 hrs Pure Steel 09:20 hrs Hakensack 09:50 hrs Gringo D’aubrelle 10:20 hrs Sober 10:50 hrs Springhill Warrior 11:20 hrs San Hilario

Usman Khawaja made 78 to set up Brisbane Heat win

Khawaja stars as Heat eliminate Thunder in Big Bash

USMAN Khawaja made 78 to set up Brisbane Heat’s comfortable seven-wicket win and eliminate Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League. Chasing 181, Khawaja, who retired from Australia duty after their 4-1 win over England in the Ashes, hit seven fours and three sixes in his 48-ball knock at the top of the order. He shared 57 in 23 balls with Jack Wildermuth (39) for the first wicket and 26 with Nathan McSweeney but the key partnership came with Matt Renshaw, someone who may benefit from Khawaja’s international retirement. The pair put on 93 in 56 balls to break the back of the chase, with Khawaja dismissed with five required. Max Bryant came to the crease and hit first ball for six to seal the win with 22 balls to spare. Thunder, who are are rooted to the bottom of the table with one win in eight games, posted 180-6, with David Warner continuing his recent good form with 82 off 56 balls. He was run out in bizarre fashion in the 16th over, with Marnus Labuschagne dropping Sam Billings initially, before McSweeney’s throw saw Warner dismissed at the striker’s end despite a full-length dive. Heat are fifth in the table, but have the same points as second, third and fourth approaching the final week of group games.

Nigeria set up semi-final tie against Afcon hosts Morocco VICTOR Osimhen and Akor Adams were on target as Nigeria advanced to the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) with a comfortable win over Algeria. The West Africans were firmly in control in the first half in Marrakech, with Adams spurning a glorious chance to open the scoring eight minutes before the break when he curled narrowly over the bar. Osimhen broke the deadlock for the Super Eagles just 85 seconds into the second half, heading Bruno Onyemaechi’s deep cross from the left down and back across goal for his fourth goal at these finals. Adams added the second 10 minutes later when he

rounded Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane after being played in by Osimhen following a fine Nigeria move. Sevilla forward Adams had a chance to make it 3-0 but headed against the left-

hand upright from Osimhen’s cross with nine minutes remaining. Nigeria, runners-up at the 2023 edition, will now face host nation Morocco in the last four in Rabat on Wednesday (20:00 GMT).

Sunday, January 11th, 2026 CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Mitchell Starc-31 wickets (2) Brydon Carse-22 wickets Today’s Quiz: (1) Who hit the highest individual Test score for AUST in the recent Ashes series? (2) Who cracked the highest score for ENG? Answers in tomorrow’s issue.

Garner continues to receive accolades • From Page 24

The sentiment of camaraderie and profound respect was echoed by fast bowling great and former teammate, Ambassador Courtney Walsh, who addressed his “soulmate” directly. “Big Bird, my good friend, man. From teammate to roommate. Someone I’ve always admired and looked up to as a young man. Thanks to all that you have passed on to me. Truly well-deserved award. Enjoy, enjoy, enjoy.” Fellow “Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse” member Andy Roberts provided acute technical insight into what made Garner,

who joined the quartet after Roberts, Michael Holding, and the injured Colin Croft had begun their reign of terror, so uniquely formidable. “He made the most integral and important part of that unit,” Roberts said. “He used his great height far better than any other fast bowler the world has produced from that height.” Roberts highlighted Garner’s most feared weapon. “He had a great yorker. He didn’t need to bowl bouncers because once he released that ball from that height, it was basically a more important weapon than what I could do. His height alone did everything.”

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, January 11, 2026

‘Whoever signed off England’s tour has to go’ - Agnew column THIS has been my 10th tour covering England in Australia and has been, quite comfortably, the most disappointing. Record numbers of people have come to watch, which illustrates the massive interest. Everyone, me included, thought this would be a hardfought series that would go down to the wire. Rather than it being a series to remember, this has been a real let down and it ends, like so many tours before, with the English team and game under the microscope. England effectively faced an Australia second XI throughout, won four of the five tosses and they blew it - a 4-1 series defeat confirmed by the fifth Test loss in Sydney. You do not have to look far for answers. England coach Brendon McCullum has already admitted it. Forget the batting in Perth or bowling in Adelaide, I go back to 24 July 2025 as the moment England lost this series. I remember how furious I was that day - the day pre-series preparations of nets and one intra-squad warm-up were announced - because we all knew England’s plans were not sufficient to win an Ashes series here. It beggars belief it was signed off by those at the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). Whoever did so, whether director of cricket Rob Key, chief executive Richard Gould or someone else, should lose their job. Selfishly, you never know how many more of these tours you are

Australia pose with the Ashes trophy after sealing a 4-1 series win • (AFP/Getty Images)

going to work on. That is why I was furious but also upset. But thousands of England fans, who I have spent most evenings talking to, have invested their life savings in coming out here. Their feeling is not disappointment. They are angry and deserve better. With the soft dismissals and dropped catches, they have watched a team that is so ill-disciplined it is embarrassing. Compare that to Australia, who catch everything, give you nothing with the ball and go on and get big individual scores. The ECB now owes it to England’s supporters to come up with some explanations. It seems McCullum is going to be given the opportunity to turn things around, assuming he agrees to change his ways. I just do not think that is likely to happen. He played and captained this way with New Zealand. He coaches and lives his life in this relaxed manner. McCullum is very good company, a decent man who did good work in those early years in charge, but it has been shown that his methods do not work with this set of players in Test cricket.

Bazball has not been good for Ollie Pope, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith or Gus Atkinson to name a few. They have been a bit scrambled by what is expected of them. There needs to be much more flexibility around playing more games of cricket and a greater emphasis on county cricket, where players learn their game. Does McCullum even believe that is the way to go? Whatever happens there, the one England must keep in place is Ben Stokes as captain. They cannot afford for McCullum to go and Stokes to follow suit. Yes, he has been as much part of the mantra as McCullum, but his comments in this series have shown he wants more. I do not think he has had a great series as captain. Why Josh Tongue was not given the new ball sooner than the final day of the series I do not know and some of Stokes’ fielding positions or tactical decisions have been off. But he is the best leader England have. Certainly Brook, Stokes’ vice-captain, has shown he is a million miles from being suitable to lead England’s Test team. Brook batted irresponsibly

from the start, has not learned and now needs to really go away and look at his game. If he does not, he will fall well short of what he is capable of, which would be a real waste. When it comes to the other changes, I hope we have not seen the last of Pope because he is a talented batsman. England have to move on from Will Jacks, who is not a good enough bowler to be the sole spinner in a Test attack. The real interesting one is wicketkeeper Smith. Who will be behind the stumps for England’s first Test next summer? The way Smith has shrivelled here, with 211 runs across 10 innings at an average of 23.44, as well as dropped catches, is a matter of serious concern. In truth, the only players who can leave the tour with their heads held high are Tongue and Jacob Bethell. Brydon Carse was given the wrong role - he is someone who comes on first change and runs in hard while bowling long spells rather than an opening bowler but deserves credit for the way he continued to charge in throughout five Tests. Bethell’s 154 in Sydney was an innings of someone who has played 50 Tests rather than five. Brook should take a leaf out of his book when trying to work out how to play proper Test innings. After a tour that began with so much hope, there is very little to cheer. (Jonathan Agnew was speaking to BBC Sport’s Matthew Henry)

FA Cup holders Crystal Palace knocked out by non-league Macclesfield MACCLESFIELD, England, (Reuters) Non-league Macclesfield produced perhaps the FA Cup's greatest upset on Saturday when they beat holders Crystal Palace 2–1 in a third‑round thriller, knocking Oliver Glasner's team out of the competition and sending the Moss Rose crowd into raptures. Captain Paul Dawson and Isaac Buckley-Ricketts struck in each half as the home side -- coached by Wayne Rooney's younger brother John -- stunned Premier League side Palace, a team 117 places above them in England's football pyramid. "I can't believe it, we never thought we would be in this position," Rooney told the BBC. "We were incredible from the first minute. I thought we were deserved winners. I couldn't be any prouder of the lads." Dawson rose to head home a lovely curled free kick from Luke Duffy in the 43rd minute. Buckley-Ricketts doubled their lead in the 60th minute when he twisted his body to wrong-foot Palace goalkeeper Walter Benitez in front of a

Paul Dawson scored the opening goal for Macclesfield against Crystal Palace

delirious crowd at Moss Rose, the site of a children's under-nines practice earlier in the day. Palace's Yeremy Pino scored with a stunning free-kick in the 90th minute to make for some nervy added-time minutes. Palace boss Glasner had made six changes to his team from Wednesday's scoreless draw with Aston Villa. He sent on reinforcements in Will Hughes, Tyrick Mitchell and Brennan

Johnson to start the second half. The changes made little difference as the visitors, who are 13th in England's top flight, looked rattled through much of the second half. Glasner said they had deserved to lose. "We had no kind of quality today and I saw no one who could win a dribble. Then conceding set goals and timing in the header," he told the BBC. "If you can't create clear chances, it is a lack of quality that we have shown today. We deserved to lose. "I have no explanation for what I have seen today." Macclesfield are the first non-league team to eliminate the FA Cup holders since Crystal Palace knocked out Wolverhampton Wanderers in the 1908-09 first round. Arsenal were the last holders to go out in the third round, in 2018. The victory was the latest chapter in a remarkable rise for Macclesfield, who were expelled from the National League five years ago, with debts totalling more than £500,000.

Kevin Durant passes legend Chamberlain on all-time list KEVIN Durant moved past the great Wilt Chamberlain on the NBA all-time scoring list but his 30 points could not guide the Houston Rockets to a win against the Portland Trail Blazers. Durant, 37, has 31,435 points in his career and is now seventh on the all-time list. LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers leads the way with 42,601. The Trail Blazers triumphed 111-105 at Moda Center in Portland. Chamberlain, who died in 1999, is the only player to score 100 points in an NBA game and was a two-time champion with the Philadelphia 76ers and the Lakers. In 1962 he averaged a record 50.4 points a game, and was the leading NBA scorer when he retired in 1973. “You see the numbers. You just can’t comprehend somebody putting up 50 a game with 25 rebounds,” Durant said before Friday’s game. “You want to compete with that and try to match that as much as you can. “It’s amazing just being in the top 10 with him, but to have the opportunity to pass him up, it’s pretty sweet.” Giannis Antetokounmpo blocked a shot by James and stole the ball from him on consecutive possessions in the final minute as the Milwaukee Bucks beat the Lakers 105-101 in LA to claim a fifth win in seven games. Stephen Curry finished with 27 points and a season-high 10 assists as the Golden State Warriors triumphed 137-103 at home against the Sacramento Kings. The Oklahoma City Thunder overcame a 21-point deficit in the second half to win 117-116 at the Memphis Grizzlies. Top 10 NBA points scorers 1. LeBron James* - 42,601 2. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar - 38,387 3. Karl Malone - 36,928 4. Kobe Bryant - 33,643 5. Michael Jordan - 32,292 6. Dirk Nowitzki - 31,560 7. Kevin Durant* - 31,435 8. Wilt Chamberlain - 31,419 9. Shaquille O’Neal - 28,596 10. James Harden* - 28, 563 *Current player

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, January 11, 2026

Down 21, Thunder storm past Grizzlies JALEN Williams scored a season-high 26 points, Ajay Mitchell added 23 and Kenrich Williams also posted a season high with 21 off the bench as the Oklahoma City Thunder rallied from 21 points down in the second half to stun the host Memphis Grizzlies 117-116 on Friday night. The Thunder outscored the Grizzlies 71-51 in the second half and extended their winning streak over Memphis to 16 consecutive games (including playoffs). The Grizzlies haven’t defeated the Thunder since Dec. 7, 2022. Memphis lost for the sixth time in seven games. Oklahoma City trailed by 11 (114-103) with 3:32 to go when it began a furious comeback. The Thunder went on a 14-0 run and grabbed their first lead since the opening quarter on a 3-pointer by Kenrich Williams with 1:07 to go. Lu Dort capped the run with two free throws with 58.9 seconds left for a 117-114 advantage. Memphis got a putback basket from Jock

Landale with 37.3 seconds left but a frantic 15-foot jumper by Cedric Coward in the closing seconds was blocked by the Thunder’s Alex Caruso. Oklahoma City, the reigning NBA champion, played without starters Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (ankle), Chet Holmgren (shin) and Isaiah Hartenstein (calf). Jaren Jackson Jr. led the Grizzlies with 23 points and GG Jackson tied a season high with 18 off the bench. Santi Aldama contributed 15 points and Landale had 13 points and 10 boards for Memphis, which was without Ja Morant (calf) for the fourth straight game. Trail Blazers 111, Rockets 105 Toumani Camara scored a career-high 25 points and Portland spoiled Kevin Durant’s milestone night with a home victory over Houston. Durant recorded 30 points and 12 rebounds and swished a 3-pointer with 7:57 left

Warriors 137, Kings 103 De’Anthony Melton ignited a 15-0 burst bridging the third and fourth quarters with six straight points, Stephen Curry went for a game-high 27 and Golden State won a second in a row to start a lengthy homestand, thumping Sacramento in San Francisco. Melton finished with 19 points off the bench and Curry completed his second dou-

Jaylen Williams scored a season-high 26 points

ble-double of the season with a game-high 10 assists for the Warriors, who ran up a season-best 39 assists on their 52 baskets. DeMar DeRozan had a team-high 24 points for the Kings, who played Golden State evenly for the first 33 minutes, gaining an 84-all tie on a Dennis Schroder 17-footer with 3:13 left in the third quarter. (Reuters)

Captain Gill targets New Zealand ODIs in World Cup build-up

Travis Head will skip the Big Bash League

Australia’s Head to skip Big Bash to prepare for T20 World Cup MELBOURNE, (Reuters) - Australia opener Travis Head will skip the Big Bash League (BBL) for a third straight season to rest and prepare for next month’s Twenty20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, Cricket Australia (CA) said on Friday. Head was a key figure in Australia’s 4-1 Ashes victory against England, the lefthander finishing as the leading scorer of the series with 629 runs from five tests. Cameron Green will also be absent from the BBL after playing three Tests against England. The all-rounder, who does not have a BBL contract, is working to return to full fitness ahead of the World Cup after undergoing major back surgery in late 2024. The board did not elaborate on World Cup squad members Pat Cummins

in the third quarter to move into seventh on the NBA’s all-time scoring list. Durant passed legendary Wilt Chamberlain (31,419). His career point total sits at 31,435 after Houston’s second consecutive loss in Portland. Shaedon Sharpe had 20 points and eight rebounds while Deni Avdija also scored 20 points for the Trail Blazers, who have won five straight and seven of their past eight. Amen Thompson recorded 24 points and nine rebounds and Reed Sheppard added 20 points off the bench for Houston.

(back) and Josh Hazlewood (hamstring) but the recovering pace duo are unlikely to be risked ahead of the global showpiece. “A five-Test match Ashes series is intense,” CA general manager, national teams, Ben Oliver said. “We have worked with each player on individual plans to best support recovery from the Ashes and preparation for upcoming international commitments including the ICC T20 World Cup. “Wherever possible, this includes players representing their clubs in the ongoing BBL season over the coming fortnight.” Australia will begin their bid for a second T20 World Cup in a Group B match against Ireland in Colombo on February 11.

INDIA captain Shubman Gill, sidelined for much of the last two months with injury concerns, has his sights on the three-match one-day international series against New Zealand as part of preparations for next year’s 50-over World Cup. Gill, 26, who was named India’s 50-overs captain in October last year, has largely been out of action since mid-November following a neck injury during the test series against South Africa. Since then, he has only played three Twenty20 internationals against South Africa. “Obviously, never easy, whenever you get injured, watching your team play and you feel like you are missing out on all those games,” Gill told reporters on Saturday. “When you have just been named the captain, there are so many things that you want to do and when you set out, it’s definitely very frustrating. “But at the same time, you just have to focus on what are the things that you need to do in that moment and kind of build on that.” India will play New Zealand in the first ODI of the three-match series today in Vadodara. Gill emphasised the importance of using the series to evaluate players ahead of next year’s World Cup. “In any series that we play, I think there is an aim or a goal behind it, keeping the World Cup in mind, so in all the series that we play, it’s very important to see the players, where and in which condition they can help us,” he said. India’s stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will be back in action after more than a month’s break from international cricket and Gill banked on their experience, calling their presence invaluable. “One is the greatest opener of all time in

India captain Shubman Gill

ODIs and Virat bhai (brother) is one of the greatest ODI batters ever, so definitely when you have these two people in your team, it makes your life a lot more easier,” Gill said. Kohli, with 53 centuries, holds the record for the most hundreds in ODI history and, along with Sharma, is among the top 10 all-time ODI run-scorers. While India are preparing for the oneday series, the bigger buzz is about the Twenty20 World Cup from February 7 to March 8 in India and Sri Lanka. Gill, however, could not find a place in India’s 15-member squad. Opener Gill, who has gone 18 innings in T20 Internationals without a 50 and missed the last two matches against South Africa with a foot injury last month, was replaced by Sanju Samson in the World Cup squad. “I respect the selectors’ decision. All the best to the team for the T20 World Cup. I am where I have to be and whatever is written in my destiny, no one can take that from me,” Gill said. “A player always believes he will try his best for the country, and the selectors have taken their decision.” (Reuters)

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, January 11, 2026

Springer: Antigua ready to host Regional first-class tournament In April By Sean Devers

LEEWARD Islands Cricket administrator, broadcaster and coach Vernon Springer says Antigua will be ready to host the entire West Indies first-class season which is scheduled to commence in April. This was after Cricket West Indies (CWI) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Chris Dehring confirmed that for the time since Regional first-class four-day cricket began in earnest in 1966, all of the matches will be played in a single territory with three rounds being contested at the same time. The tournament has reduced from the original six teams (Guyana, Barbados, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Leewards and Windwards Islands) with CCC and the Academy X1 being excluded. Dehring confirmed that funding was main reason for the unprecedented move by CWI. The Jamaican explained that this arrangement dramatically reduced the money spent on flights to move the teams and officials around the region from Jamaica in the North to Guyana in the South. “It’s going to be shorter, it’s going to be in Antigua and we (CWI) own a ground in Antigua in Collidge (the Stanford ground close to airport) so this helps with the cost. You also have to remember that there is going to be a lot of cricket being played this year so we have to try and manage were we play matches and how many matches we host. It doesn’t really matter if it’s an International or domestic four- day games we are hosting; CWI has to pay for all of the cost. So… we have to be very prudent how we manage everything this year” added Dehring. Springer, speaking from the 108 square mile Island of Antigua, said in addition to the international venue at North Sound (Sir Viv Richards Stadium) and ground in Coolidge, the former Test venue in St John’s Antigua Recreation Ground) (ARG) all ready for the first-class tournament. “The ARG hosted matches in the Regional tournament and was used by the Leeward Islands Hurricanes for their preparation for

Students, officials and organisers at the launchof the league at Transport Sports Club on Friday

Inaugural Schools Basketball League aims to strengthen national youth pipeline Leeward Islands coach and administrator Vernon Springer

the Regional Super50. Another ground the Government is working on is the Kenny Benamen ground in Liberta…so that’s another alternative venue” informed Springer who hails from St Kitts and Nevis. Another ground which is also coming on stream…it’s going to take quite some work… is the Police ground in St John’s. There were some challenges there with the water but the engineers are working speedily there to rectify that problem. Practice sessions were held there during the T20 World Cup in 2024. The Government of Antigua and Barbuda invested the facilities for the last World Cup. So, work and communications are ongoing at the Police Ground. So… Cricket West Indies, which has their headquarters in Antigua, will sooner than later we will be able to benefit because the government has stepped up to make sure they’re empowered to get more grounds up and running so they can help with the hosting or even training faculties in Antigua and Barbuda,” Springer noted. Both Dehring and Springer were guests on last Tuesday’s Sean Devers Sports Watch on Kaieteur Radio.

IN a significant move to advance basketball in the Caribbean, the Schools Basketball Committee has officially launched the inaugural Schools Basketball League (SBL), a coach-led initiative aimed at elevating playing standards and increasing competition for youth athletes. Guided by the philosophy that “exposure leads to composure,” the league aims to bridge the gap between grassroots training and high-level international competition. By shifting away from traditional knockout formats, the SBL provides a structured, long-term competitive environment essential for skill retention and tactical maturity. The inaugural season, scheduled to run from January 16 to March 22, features a pilot programme of six prestigious secondary institutions: Government Technical Institute (GTI), President’s College, Marian Academy, St. Stanislaus College, Queen’s College and St. Rose’s High School. The competition will utilise a homeand-away format, guaranteeing each team 10 matches. This increased frequency of play is a cornerstone of FIBA’s developmental goals, ensuring that young players spend more time in game-time situations to refine their decision-making. The league has received the full endorsement of the Guyana Basketball Federation (GBF), with Vice President Jer-

maine Slater emphasising that the project is a vital step toward a sustainable national programme. “The federation and association fully approve and support this,” Slater said. “It is an important step forward for school basketball and youth development, helping to improve the overall level of play among students.” Technical Director Warren Wilson noted that the league’s impact extends beyond the players. The SBL will serve as a training ground for match officials, with a dedicated programme for first-time referees and scorekeepers—a move designed to build the technical capacity required to host future international events. In alignment with modern sports standards, the SBL will incorporate digital tools to enhance the experience for athletes and scouts. Players will have access to real-time scores and individual performance statistics, fostering a data-driven approach to player development. Through a partnership with NexGen Sports, a “Game of the Week” will be streamed live, providing unprecedented exposure for Guyanese prospects to international scouts and stakeholders. While the pilot programme is currently centred in the capital, the long-term vision involves a nationwide expansion and a national playoff system.

Andrew’s half century lone bright spark for Windies in warmup match WINDHOEK, South Africa, (CMC)– Jewel Andrew stroked an impressive half century in an otherwise unimpressive batting display by the West Indies Under-19s in their first warmup match of the ICC Cricket World Cup against Ireland, which was abandoned here on Saturday due to rain. Andrew scored 81 from 107 balls with seven fours and three sixes, as the Windies were bowled out for 246 in 42.5 overs after choosing to bat first at the Wanderers Cricket Ground. Ireland, however, never got the opportunity to begin their run chase with heavy and persistent showers forcing the match to

be called off. Andrew was instrumental in helping the West Indies reach their eventual target after several other batters got starts but failed to carry on. He added 44 with opener Zachary Carter, who made 26, following the early loss of Tanez Francis for two and then added 36 with captain Joshua Dorne to see the Windies progress to 95 for two in the 17th over. However, they lost three wickets in quick succession to slump to 117 for five, before Andrew and Jonathan van Lange, who hit a quickfire 28 off 21 balls, put on 47 runs for the sixth wicket.

The Windies then suffered another mini slide, losing three more wickets for the addition of just five runs, to collapse to 169 for eight. But Andrew found a capable partner in Israel Morton, who scored 36 off 33 balls, and the pair carried the regional side past the 200-run mark during a 46-run partnership for the ninth wicket. And when Jewel was eventually dismissed, the last wicket pair of Morton and Aadian Racha added 31 valuable runs, before the former was run out. Luke Murray was Ireland’s best bowler with 3-39, while Thomas Ford (2-38) and Febin Manoj (2-57) provided good support.

Jewel Andrew top scored for the West Indies with 81 in their opening warmup match against Ireland

FOOTBALL FRATERNITY MOURNS ‘TRAILBLAZER’ MAUREES SKEETE THE Guyanese football community is in mourning following the passing of FIFA Referee Maurees Skeete, who transitioned on January 9, 2026, in the United States after a brave battle with illness. Skeete, a standard-bearer for female officiating in the region, leaves behind a legacy of integrity and discipline that resonated across the domestic and international game. The Kashif and Shanghai Organisation (K&S), led by Co-Directors Kashif Muhammad and Aubrey ‘Shanghai’ Major, described Skeete as one of the most accomplished officials the country has produced. They noted that she successfully followed in the footsteps of pioneers like Diane Ferreira-James and Kim Babb, cementing her own place in history. “We are extremely saddened at the

passing of one of our top female officials who blazed the trail with passion, discipline, and commitment,” the K&S statement read. “We recall her performing professionally at many of our year-end tournaments around Guyana. She was always a pleasant and quiet individual whose understanding and execution of the game during matches were always on point.” Slingerz Football Club also joined the outpouring of grief, specifically highlighting Skeete’s reputation for fairness in high-pressure environments. The club recognised her as an official who “always carried a balanced and fair whistle” whenever she presided over their fixtures. “Football has lost an official who represented the game with distinction, integrity, and impartiality,” Slingerz FC

stated. “Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, and the entire football fraternity during this difficult time.” Skeete’s rise to the FIFA list was a testament to her technical proficiency and physical fitness, qualities that saw her represent the Golden Arrowhead at various CONCACAF and international assignments. Her passing is being felt deeply by the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and the Referees’ Association, where she served as a mentor for the next generation of female match officials. The K&S Organisation and Slingerz FC have expressed their deepest condolences to her family and loved ones, acknowledging that while her whistle has gone silent, the impact of her career will continue to influence Guyanese football for years to come.

The late FIFA Referee Maurees Skeete

‘BIG BIRD’ GARNER CONTINUES TO RECEIVE ACCOLADES FOLLOWING NATIONAL AWARD Mohamed Salah’s fourth goal at the Afcon 2025 finals proved to be the winner for Egypt after Ivory Coast threatened a late comeback

EGYPT HOLD OFF IVORY COAST IN THRILLER TO MAKE AFCON 2025 SEMIS

MOHAMED Salah was once again on the scoresheet as Egypt beat holders Ivory Coast in an enthralling and action-packed quarter-final at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon). After Omar Marmoush slotted the Pharaohs ahead after just four minutes, the North Africans were never behind in the game. But Emerse Fae’s Elephants

are known for their resilience and refused to let their opponents blow them away despite Ramy Rabia’s header giving Egypt a 2-0 lead just after the half hour. Ahmed Fatouh’s own goal gave the Ivorians hope before half-time, but Salah quickly restored a two-goal cushion for the record seven-time winners. Guela Doue’s backheeled effort after

73 minutes set up a grandstand finish but there was to be no fairytale comeback for Ivory Coast this time around. The result means Salah’s bid for a first continental crown with his country is still on course. He will now take his team to Tangier to face Senegal, who beat Egypt in the 2021 final, on Wednesday (17:00 GMT).

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, (CMC) – The tributes continued to flow freely and powerfully, just as one of his famed yorkers, as legendary West Indies fast bowler Joel “Big Bird” Garner continues to bask, after being conferred with the Order of the Freedom of Barbados, the nation’s highest award, during the 2025 Independence and Republic celebrations late last year. The honour, awarded for “distinguished and extraordinary service in sports,” recogFormer Barbados and nises a career where Garner’s West Indies fast bowling towering 6’8” frame cast a long legend Joel Garner shadow over batters worldwide, and his gentle giant persona cemented him as a pillar of the all-conquering West Indies teams of the 1970s and 80s. Former captain and fellow knight, Sir Clive Lloyd, led the chorus of praise for his cricketing brethren. “He was a great team person,” Lloyd stated. “He added something different; he got the ball to rise disconcertingly from just short of a good length, and he bowled one of the best yorkers I know. “The minute the tail end was in, he would remove them. He was a great fellow to have in our team.” • Continues on Page 20

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