Tuesday 13th October, 2026 PRICE
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No.1081936
Gov’t engaging commercial banks on ‘agri’ lending at preferential rates 03 PAGE
Farmers’ Conference discussions to shape future of agriculture – Minister Mustapha 11 PAGE
–– says producers’ recommendations will help guide policies, programmes to boost food security efforts Work advances on 498-acre housing development, four-lane road in Leonora, Groenveldt 06 PAGE
FROM FARM TO MARKET! Shoppers were picking up fresh fruits, vegetables, meats and other locally produced goods as Farmers’ Market Day got into full swing on Monday at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre, Liliendaal (Sachin Persaud photo)
MV Barima Commission meets Private poultry plant expected Mabaruma families, urges to triple processing capacity 03 Ali says, as Guyana targets self-sufficiency survivors to give evidence 05 –– President in hatching eggs, other poultry products PAGE
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 13, 2026
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Gov’t engaging commercial banks on ‘agri’ lending at preferential rates
PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali has said that the government is negotiating with commercial banks to make loans for agricultural production more affordable, with support aimed at medium- and large-scale operators. Speaking at the Farmers Conference on Monday, President Ali said the government had brought commercial banks together to discuss incentives modelled on those offered for low-income housing. He said the aim was to encourage lending to agriculture at preferential rates. “There was a time when we came back in office in
2020. People were not even looking at agriculture as a sustainable way of growing a business or investing. For a matter of fact, a lot of the large farmers and large producers were scaling back investment in the sector. People were leaving the sector, the rice sector, the poultry sector,” he said, adding: “Today, not only have we brought back production and instill confidence in the system, but we are nurturing a new generation of young Guyanese who see a future in agriculture, who see a future in investing in agriculture. We have been able to build the consorti-
President Dr Irfaan Ali addressing Monday’s Farmers Conference
ums of young people now in poultry.” Dr Ali said Republic Bank had committed to setting aside resources for agricultural loans, while the rate was still under negotiation. He hoped an agreement could be announced before the end of the conference week. “We have brought all of the commercial banks together, and we are currently negotiating with them to offer the same type of incentive that we offer for low-income housing to banks for loans to agriculture, so that those who want to go into more medium, large-scale produc-
tion can get those loans at affordable rates,” he said. He also noted that Demerara Bank was offering poultry loans at five per cent, adding that the government was discussing whether incentives could help bring the rate lower. President Ali said the financing measures were part of a broader effort to address farmers’ challenges and support investment in production. He linked the planned lending support to the government’s wider agricultural policies and infrastructural investments.
Private poultry plant expected to triple processing capacity –– President Ali says, as Guyana targets self-sufficiency in hatching eggs, other poultry products
A PRIVATE poultry investor is preparing to commission a new processing plant in Guyana, which is expected to triple the company’s processing capacity, President Dr Irfaan Ali has said. During his address at the Farmers Conference on Monday, President Ali said the facility was due to begin operations soon. “Today, as we speak here, one of the private investors in poultry, is about to start up a large processing plant… a new poultry processing plant
that will triple their capacity in terms of processing here in Guyana,” the Head of State said. He described the investment as evidence of growing confidence in the country’s agricultural sector. Dr. Ali said the private investment was following government policies and infrastructure spending intended to support farmers and expand food production. The announcement came as President Ali outlined the government’s wider efforts to increase domestic production
and attract investment across agriculture. It was against this backdrop he disclosed that Guyana aims to produce half of the hatching eggs it currently imports by the end of 2027, with production expected to move closer to full domestic supply by the end of 2028. Dr. Ali said the targets formed part of efforts to strengthen the poultry sector and reduce reliance on imports. The President, however, cautioned that some imports would still be needed to
maintain resilience and food security. Across the sector, the government is seeking to raise production while improving productivity and linking farmers to markets. Dr. Ali said plans included working with farmers along new farm-to-market roads and drainage canals to develop production plans, as well as investing in agroprocessing and storage. Notably, the government is also advancing efforts to improve access to agricultural studies through the Guyana
School of Agriculture (GSA). “We’re investing in the agriculture school so that we can teach agriculture not only in the traditional way. [but also, in a way] that we can teach agriculture and showcase agriculture using this technology. so that someone passing through the Guyana School of Agriculture now can be exposed to the technology, exposed to the scientific development and advancement that is required.” President Ali said the government was investing
in agriculture beyond poultry, including drainage and irrigation, farm-to-market roads, agro-processing and agricultural technology. He also highlighted plans for a regional food hub and expanded storage for rice, honey and poultry, alongside seed and fertiliser subsidies and VAT exemptions for agricultural inputs. The President said these measures were intended to raise productivity, connect farmers with markets and strengthen Guyana’s food security.
spread to neighbouring buildings. “These things should not be overlooked or undervalued,” she said. Chief Fire Officer, Gregory Wickham, said the service’s 69 years of operation reflect its continued commitment to providing humanitarian assistance, extending beyond fire suppression to emergency medical support delivered by its Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs). The fire service currently has more than 5,000 hy-
drants across regions. The government will add about 120 more by year end, with another 2,000 targeted for installation next year. The fire chief urged citizens to remain vigilant and report fires promptly, noting that early notification is critical to preventing incidents, including grass fires, from spreading to homes and other structures. Members of the public can contact the GFS through 912 or 226-2411-13 to report emergencies. (DPI)
Gov’t commends firefighters’ dedication, professionalism –– as investments improve emergency response
MINISTER of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond, on Monday, commended the dedication and professionalism of the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), pointing to sustained investments in modern equipment, infrastructure and personnel training as critical to improving emergency response and safeguarding lives and property. “I always want to say to them that we are very
proud of our fire service, because the government has made tremendous investments in the assets, but our greatest investments have been in our young people and in the training,” the minister stated while speaking to the media on Monday following the “Eyes Right” salute at the GFS’s 69th Anniversary March Past Parade in Georgetown. She recognised the dedication of firefighters who
routinely place themselves at risk to respond to emergencies. The minister explained that the resources provided to the service are intended to deliver tangible improvements in emergency response, including reducing the time it takes firefighters to reach incidents and limiting the potential for loss of life and property. The establishment of a new fire station in Camp-
bellville, Georgetown, has already demonstrated the value of that approach. According to the minister, firefighters responded to a fire at a children’s home in under two minutes. Minister Walrond also pointed to improvements in firefighting capacity, including modern fire tenders, fire boats and an expanding fire hydrant network, which have strengthened the service’s ability to contain fires before they
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Prosecutor hands over reply in MV Barima murder case; ruling set for October 19
SENIOR Police Legal Advisor Mandel Moore on Monday submitted the prosecution’s response to arguments advanced by defence attorney Dexter Todd. Todd is seeking a stay of the murder proceedings against two Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) employees charged over the deadly MV Barima disaster. The matter was called before Magistrate Ravindra Mohabir at the Charity Magistrate’s Court, where the prosecution’s response was formally laid over, paving the way for a ruling on the defence’s application next Monday, October 19, at 10:00h. Magistrate Mohabir told the court that he would consider the submissions filed by Todd and the prosecution before delivering his decision. The application seeks to halt the criminal proceedings on grounds of abuse of process, with the defence
challenging aspects of the circumstances surrounding the investigation into the July 18, 2026 sinking of the 87-year-old vessel, The three accused, who appeared virtually via Zoom, are captain Kevin Price, 40, of Melanie Damishana, East Coast Demerara, also known as “KP”; chief mate Rondell Dwayne Roberts, 42, of Grove Public Road, East Bank Demerara; and goods superintendent Delon Granderson, 33, of Fellowship, West Coast Demerara. Todd represents Captain Kevin Price and goods superintendent Delon Granderson. Chief Mate Rondell Dwayne Roberts is represented by attorney Everton Singh-Lammy. The court made arrangements for hard copies of the submissions to be delivered to the relevant attorneys. The three men were further remanded to prison until then. Todd had previously indicated that the application would rely on several legal
grounds, including legislation and authorities dealing with marine casualty investigations. The defence’s central argument is that the circumstances surrounding the sinking fall within the scope of marine casualty investigations governed by legislation, including the Shipping Act. Todd had argued that his clients had not been able to benefit from, or be guided by, those investigations and should be afforded the protections provided under the applicable law. The attorney had also suggested that the legal challenge could have implications beyond the immediate case, potentially contributing to the development of Guyana’s jurisprudence on the relationship between marine casualty investigations and criminal proceedings. The case remains at the preliminary stage, with paper committal proceedings expected to begin on November 16. Magistrate Mohabir had previously indicated that he intended to complete that process by the end of November. A paper committal is a preliminary court process in which the magistrate examines written evidence and other documentary material
to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to send the accused to the High Court for trial. It does not involve witnesses appearing in court to give oral testimony or undergo cross-examination during the committal process. At an earlier hearing on September 9, prosecutor Moore informed the court that the State had completed full disclosure of the evidence and material information gathered during the investigation. The defence was subsequently given time to examine the disclosed material and determine whether statements would be filed on behalf of the accused. Following the tragedy, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips disclosed that two crew members, including the vessel’s captain, had tested positive for cannabis during medical examinations, a finding that became part of the wider investigation into the disaster. The three T&HD employees were jointly charged with murder following legal advice from Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Shalimar Ali-Hack, SC. The Office of the DPP has defended the decision to charge the men, stating that it followed an assessment of
the evidence and applicable legal principles. The DPP has said the decision was informed by relevant case law from the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth jurisdictions, authorities from the European Court of Human Rights, and public policy considerations. The men first appeared before Chief Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on July 28, 2026, where they were not required to plead to the indictable murder charges. They were remanded to prison before the case was transferred to the Charity Magistrate’s Court. Police allege that Price, Roberts and Granderson murdered passengers aboard the MV Barima when the vessel capsized on July 18, approximately 9.3 nautical miles off Devonshire Castle on the Essequibo Coast. The passenger and cargo ferry had departed the T&HD Kingston Goods Wharf, Georgetown, at about 15:15h on its scheduled journey to Port Kaituma, Region One. At approximately 23:01h, the vessel transmitted a distress signal after encountering difficulties near the mouth of the Pomeroon River. A total of 179 people were aboard, including 18 crew members. The disaster claimed 73 lives, while 76 people survived. Approximately 30 others remain unaccounted for. The criminal case is proceeding alongside a separate Government-appointed five-member Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the tragedy, which is scheduled to begin taking evidence on Wednesday, October 14. The DPP has maintained that the CoI and the criminal proceedings can proceed simultaneously because the two processes serve different legal purposes. The CoI is tasked with examining the circumstances that led to the sinking, regulatory oversight, the emergency response and measures to prevent a similar disaster in the future. Prime Minister Phillips also confirmed that the accused crew members were receiving psychosocial support, noting that they, too,
had survived the tragedy and would continue to have access to counselling and other necessary psychological care while in prison. The Government has also mobilised psychologists, social workers and counsellors to provide trauma and grief support to survivors and bereaved families affected by the disaster. The charge alleges that on July 18, 2026, at a location 9.3 nautical miles on a bearing of 040 degrees off the Essequibo Coast at Devonshire Castle, in the Essequibo Magisterial District, County of Essequibo, the trio murdered 66 named persons and other persons unknown. The named victims are Kevin Wilson, Claymont King, Oxwell John, Roma Mendonca, Nathaniel Matabheek, Nathalia Matabheek, Rachel Wells Matabheek, Ezekiel Matabheek, Cheriannys Valenzuela, Orin Clarke, Edith Gordon, Omar Harris Paul Seapersaud, Andriel Bautisa, Youlanda Marks, Gwenette Marks, Shenira Smith, Cleiveliz Fraser, Vivianna Saddurddin, Argelys Kelly Williams, Devon Mars, Robina Hernandez and Tendhi Standford. Also listed are Adans Williams, Ranaldo Poon, Aarave Daniels, Marcia Beharry, Leonard Persaud, Mariam Bernard, Ravindra Singh, Shivana LaCruz Ramsindo, Christiani Rodrigues, Annalisa Murray, Owen Arthur, Loveisa Bovell, Joshua Arthur, Ranaldo Pickering, Bibi Mohamed, Sylvester Peters, Shawn John, Akelah Rodrigues, Vishawn Ramjattan, Nelly Duesberry, Samara Manoharlall and Sherlon Joseph. The remaining named victims are Timar Manoharlall, Dellon Gaskin, Percy France, Alicia Atkinson, Dwyane Forbes, Orin Europe, Orwin Europe, Justin Mury, Odessa Mury, Reshana David, Kishana Sam, Tiona Sam, Elizebeth Bowin, Argany Williams, Omarions Europe Jacob Jerome, Mark Abrams, Ashleena Bovel, Kyle Thomas, Carlton Bennett, Navessa Bovell, Martin Ishmeal and Jason Headley, along with other persons unknown.
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MV Barima Commission meets Mabaruma families, urges survivors to give evidence
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, October 13, 2026
AHEAD of the commencement of substantive hearings on Wednesday, the Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the sinking of the MV Barima visited Mabaruma on Monday to hear firsthand from survivors and encourage them
distances. Among them was Andre Cox, Toshao of White Water, who raised questions on behalf of families he said were unable to attend. They wanted to know how long the investigation would take and when the sunken vessel
families. Alongside questions about the investigation came deeply personal accounts of survival and loss. Although the meeting was not convened to receive formal testimony, several people spoke about what they had endured.
ness. He described removing his belt and using it to strap empty plastic bottles together to help him stay afloat. After the meeting, Cox said recounting the ordeal often brought on intense headaches. Even so, he felt it was important to meet the
At the close of the engagement, many stayed behind to personally thank the commissioners for undertaking the investigation. Several pledged to attend the hearings in the coming weeks, if not to give testimony, then to show their support.
of the wharf and cargo area before returning to Georgetown. The MV Barima departed Georgetown on July 18, bound for Mabaruma before continuing to Port Kaituma. The journey from Georgetown to Mabaruma usually
Ahead of the commencement of substantive hearings on Wednesday, the Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the sinking of the MV Barima visited Mabaruma on Monday to hear firsthand from survivors and encourage them to give evidence before the commission to give evidence before the commission. During the community engagement at the Narie Extension Centre, commissioners assured survivors that appropriate arrangements would be made for those who choose to testify at the hearings in Georgetown. While the meeting was not a formal hearing or a session for taking testimony, it allowed survivors and bereaved families to meet the five commissioners, discuss the inquiry’s objectives and raise questions about the investigation. About 36 people from Mabaruma and surrounding communities in Barima-Waini, Region One, attended, some travelling long
would be raised. Commission chairman Justice Godfrey P. Smith said the team anticipated taking about six months to complete its findings and submit a report to President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali. Raising the MV Barima, however, was outside the commission’s responsibility, he explained. That matter rested with the government. Cox also asked what was planned for those who had been aboard the vessel and remained unaccounted for. Justice Smith acknowledged the question but said he did not have an answer. The Toshao told commissioners that a psychologist visits White Water every Monday to provide support to survivors and affected
Leon Murray recounted his struggle to survive that night. He pointed to his son, seated at the back of the room, who had also survived. His wife and other children did not. His voice cracked as he spoke, and many in the room could not hold back their tears. Commissioners listened attentively, took notes and asked questions to clarify details. Asked afterwards about the visit, Murray said he “thanked God they came to investigate what happened and how it happened,” adding that he “was pleased that they came.” For fellow survivor Ormon Cox, the memories were of long hours in the water, surrounded by pitch dark-
commissioners. He said he had much more to tell them and looked forward to giving testimony before the inquiry. Leroy Jerome’s visit coincided with a painful milestone: his son, who died when the Barima sank, would have turned three on Monday. Jerome travelled from Barima to paint his son’s tomb and meet the commissioners. He said he was “happy that the commissioners came to meet the survivors and families.” Maria Bowring and her husband, Albert Wells, lost their daughter and her children. They said their daughter, who had lived in Georgetown for years, was coming to visit them. She never made it home.
For Mabaruma and neighbouring communities, the grief remains palpable. Survivors continue to grapple with memories of the ordeal, while relatives mourn those they lost and seek answers about those still missing. The number of residents who died or remain unaccounted for has not yet been established. Appointed by President Ali, the commission is tasked with investigating what went wrong and recommending measures to prevent a similar tragedy. Its community engagements and facility visit form part of its work to better understand the circumstances surrounding the sinking and its impact. During the Mabaruma visit, commissioners also conducted a walkthrough
takes between 14 and 24 hours. The vessel sank late that night. Justice Smith, of Belize, a former Justice of Appeal, chairs the five-member inquiry. Serving alongside him are Captain Hamada Fouda, an Egyptian residing in Jamaica and a maritime surveyor and safety specialist; Nyree Dawn Alfonso of Trinidad and Tobago, an attorney specialising in maritime law; Dr Andrzej Jasionowski of Poland, a naval architect and marine engineer; and retired Rear Admiral Hayden Pritchard of Trinidad and Tobago, an expert in maritime operations and security. The commission is scheduled to visit Port Kaituma on Tuesday.
Police say clamping of vehicle PAB 4000 was part of dangerous driving probe THE Guyana Police Force has clarified the circumstances surrounding the clamping of a wheel on motor vehicle PAB 4000 near the Parika Stelling on Saturday, saying the action was linked to an ongoing investigation into reports of dangerous driving. In a statement, the Force said the vehicle was reported to have been driv-
en dangerously along the Cornelia Ida Public Road, West Coast Demerara. On Saturday, October 10, 2026, police received reports from several commuters alleging that PAB 4000 was being driven in a dangerous manner, including undertaking other vehicles. An investigation was launched, and investigators reviewed footage from
the Safe Country Camera network. According to the Force, the CCTV footage corroborated the reports from members of the public. It showed that around 15:15 hrs on October 10, PAB 4000 was driven dangerously, including undertaking several vehicles while travelling west along the Cornelia Ida Public Road. Based on the evidence
gathered so far, the driver of PAB 4000 is being investigated for driving in a dangerous manner, contrary to Section 36 (1) of the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act, Chapter 51:02. The Force said the clamping was done to facilitate the investigation and “was not based on the identity or status of the vehicle’s occupant.”
The Police Force reiterated that all road users must comply with traffic laws and regulations. It warned that dangerous driving, including undertaking in circumstances that put other road users at risk, can lead to serious accidents, injuries and loss of life. Members of the public were reminded that persons found guilty of dangerous
driving may face penalties prescribed by law. These include fines and/or imprisonment, disqualification from holding or obtaining a driver’s licence, and suspension or cancellation of a driver’s licence. The Force said it remains committed to enforcing traffic laws impartially and to ensuring the safety of all road users.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, October 13, 2026
The Opposition’s Mandate DEMOCRACY depends on more than the party that governs. It also depends on the party that challenges it. Attorney-General Anil Nandlall, SC, made that point on the Starting Point podcast, and his appeal deserves a serious hearing. The Opposition represents tens of thousands of Guyanese, and those citizens are entitled to a voice on the questions that shape the country’s future. Exposing corruption, or alleged corruption, is a legitimate part of that work. But it is not the whole job, and an opposition that treats it as the whole job is shortchanging the people who voted for it. The list of issues awaiting serious opposition engagement is long. House-
holds are feeling the cost of living, yet the Opposition’s contribution has largely been calling for salary increases. Wage demands are not wrong, in themselves, but a responsible proposal comes with an honest account of what it costs and who pays. Slogans are not policy. Then there is Venezuela. Delcy Rodriguez, the Venezuelan President, recently addressed the United Nations on matters with serious implications for Guyana. Where was the response from the Opposition Leader or any other opposition voice? When the country’s territorial integrity is in question, silence is not neutrality. It is absence. Climate change and food security deserve the same attention. Guyana is
vulnerable to rising seas, and it is also expected to play a pivotal role in feeding the region. The country must reconcile fossil fuel production with environmental responsibility. These are generational questions that call for generational thinking, and Parliament is where that debate belongs. The Attorney-General is right that a parliamentary opposition is the alternative government. That title carries a duty to bring the highest caliber of leadership to the people, to scrutinise policy at the level where policy is made, and to present alternatives that can withstand public examination. Roads, farms, fencing and pump stations matter to the communities they
serve, but a party that aspires to govern must also speak to the country’s direction, not only its potholes. Ad hominem exchanges and minutiae are not the work of national politicians. Mr. Nandlall was careful to say he was not attacking the Opposition but appealing to it. Guyana’s democracy is strengthened when the government is pressed by a rival that is informed, prepared, and constructive. A competent Opposition is not a favour to the government. It is a safeguard for the public. The Opposition has the mandate, the platform and the responsibility. It should use all three on the issues that will define the nation’s future.
Work advances on 498-acre housing development, four-lane road in Leonora, Groenveldt
THE Ministry of Housing is advancing major road infrastructure and housing development works in Leonora and Groenveldt, Region Three, as part of ongoing efforts to improve connectivity, open new lands for housing and address the region’s growing demand for house lots and housing units. Minister of Housing, Collin Croal, on Friday, October 9, 2026, inspected the ongoing works during a site visit to Region Three, where he provided an update on the construction of a four-lane interconnecting road and the development of approximately 498 acres of land for residential purposes. According to a press release from the ministry, the new housing develop-
ment is being undertaken under the G$9.1 billion Saudi-funded housing infrastructure project, which forms part of the Government’s wider investment in expanding access to serviced residential lands and creating sustainable communities. Approximately 498 acres have been earmarked for development under the Saudi-funded initiative, with contractors currently undertaking land clearing and preparation works ahead of the installation of critical infrastructure. Minister Croal explained that the development represents a continuation of the Government’s housing programme in the area, where several housing units are already under construction. The additional lands
will accommodate new housing construction and house lot allocations, contributing to the Ministry’s efforts to reduce the backlog of pending applications in Region Three. “This development is for the construction of houses and for allocation purposes, and so we are happy about the massive investment that is taking place,” Minister Croal stated. He emphasised that the investment serves a dual purpose: Expanding access to affordable housing while establishing an interconnected road network that will stimulate economic activity and attract investments along the developing corridor. The Minister also highlighted the importance of coordinating road con-
struction with housing development to ensure that new residential communities benefit from improved accessibility and supporting infrastructure. The ongoing works form part of the Government’s broader transformation of Region Three, where substantial investments in highways, housing schemes and supporting infrastructure, including the G$9.1 billion Saudi-funded project, are creating new opportunities for homeownership, improved transportation and community development. Speaking on the road project, Minister Croal noted that the region will see the transformation of the existing dam separating Groenveldt and Leonora into a modern four-lane thoroughfare,
linking communities to the Schoonord-to-Parika highway currently under construction. Minister Croal explained that the first phase of the interconnecting road will span approximately 7.7 kilometres, beginning in the vicinity of Old Market Street, Leonora, and extending towards Canal Number One, where it will connect to the new highway network. “Where I’m standing now will be converted to a four-lane highway or interconnecting road that will connect you from Leonora as part of the first phase that moves on to Canal Number One,” the Minister explained. He noted that the first phase of the project is expected to be completed during the first half of
2027 and will significantly enhance accessibility across the West Coast and West Bank Demerara corridors. The Minister further disclosed that a subsequent phase of the interconnecting road will extend from the highway towards Canal Number Two, creating additional access routes and supporting future residential and commercial investments. Meanwhile, significant land development is progressing on both sides of the proposed roadway, within the Groenveldt and Leonora areas. Minister Croal indicated that further updates will be provided as construction progresses towards the targeted completion period in 2027.
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2015-2020: The most mysterious period in Guyana’s history
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, October 13, 2026
THIS is the second part of the analysis of class struggle in the AFC which began last Saturday. I have studied Guyanese history all my life but I find the tale of the PNC and the AFC in power between 2015 and 2020 a very complicated, complex and maybe incomprehensible story in modern Guyanese history. That relationship between the PNC and AFC has been shrouded in esoteric metaphysics that has no parallel in Guyana’s history. As the analysis flows, there are times when things make no sense. If you offer an intellectual analysis of how the PNC and AFC related to each other, you run the risk of your work being deemed mumbo jumbo and indeed things were so incomprehensible in that period of government that they come close to being mumbo jumbo. I honestly do not think some of the key players in the PNC and AFC understood the dynamics of what they were involved in as they ruled Guyana. What follows is an attempt to make sense of the relationship between the PNC and AFC in government. Part three will have to follow. Please note these are very truncated notes. The journey of APNU+AFC in power begins with the unique relationship between David Granger and Raphael Trotman. Both men accepted the urgency for there to be an influential middle-class third party. They thought out the broad outline of this formation when they were at the airport in The Bahamas. What happened in 2011 was that two Berbice Indians began reshaping the AFC.
Part one stopped at the insistence of Granger that Trotman be the House Speaker after the 2011 general elections. Granger rejected Nagamootoo’s nomination. In so doing, he went on to argue that it was misplaced to think that Nagamootoo brought in the Berbice vote. Granger named Charrandass Persaud as playing a major role in securing votes from Berbice Granger and Trotman frowned on the new shape the AFC had taken on after 2011. Interestingly, Raphael Trotman did not visit the AFC office during the 2015 election campaign or attend the AFC’s management committee meeting during that period. He was based at the PNC campaign office at Albert and Forshaw Streets. What was Granger and Trotman vexed about? The AFC had become more like a mass-based party with a deluge of Indian constituencies. Trotman was mentally uncomfortable working out from the AFC office. The real story of the fight between the PNC and AFC began after power was achieved. Here is where the story becomes complicated. There were two compartments within the PNC after 2015 that had their own reasons for disliking the AFC. Granger’s resentment of the AFC was based on the diminution of the power of the Mulatto Creole class in the AFC. It must be remembered that Granger’s son-in-law, Dominic Gaskin, was also a founder of the AFC. Other PNC leaders, particularly Volda Lawrence and Basil Williams, saw the AFC as a challenge to the PNC and felt that it should not have a huge chunk of power. Here is where a power struggle developed in the
PNC between Granger and the more downto-earth PNC leaders. Two facts are important in attempting to remove the confusion that comes with trying to understand who in the PNC was anti-AFC and who was pro-AFC. Fact one - in his book, “From Destiny to Prosperity” on page two, Trotman revealed that after APNU+AFC won power, the AFC overlooked him for a Cabinet position. This is a disgusting, repugnant fiction. When the APNU+ AFC won power, the AFC’s leader was Khemraj Ramjattan but from 2005 when the AFC was founded to the time it acquired power, three names had equal decision-making clout in the AFC – Ramjattan, Trotman and Nigel Hughes. There was no one in the AFC that had the power or right or privilege to deny Trotman a Cabinet post. Both Gaskin and David Patterson on the Freddie Kissoon Show contradicted that revelation by Trotman. Here is the reason why Trotman was not
named a minister in May 2015. He indicated in the AFC’s boardroom when ministers were being selected that he was not interested in a Cabinet position. The reason being was that Trotman and Granger had discussed Trotman’s suggestion of being the Roger Luncheon in the APNU+AFC Government. In the Cheddi Jagan government and subsequent PPP governments, Luncheon’s role was akin to the Chief of Staff. This was a position of real power. Trotman was in discussion with Granger on being the Cabinet Tsar. This explains why he was not named an AFC minister. But he didn’t get the Cabinet Tsar position because of an intense power struggle in the PNC. Part three will begin with that explanation. 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.
ANSA McAL awards $20M to Three NGOs for youth development, education
ANSA McAL and The ANSA McAL Foundation have awarded three non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in Georgetown, signalling their intention to invest G$20 million in programmes designed to create impact for youth and support education in communities across Guyana. The awards were presented on Tuesday at the Cara Lodge by Troy Cadogan, Country Head for Guyana and Suriname. They follow a national call for social investment proposals issued in May, which drew more than 40 submissions, according to a press release from ANSA McAL. The applications went through a rigorous selection
process that included site visits to shortlisted NGOs and a capacity-building workshop before the three recipients were chosen. Guyanese social development consultant Tiffany Kirton supported both the site visits and the workshop. Blossom Inc. received the largest award, G$10 million, to implement a year-long education-equity initiative for vulnerable youth between the ages of 12 and 26 in Region Seven. Project New Nation was awarded G$5 million to roll out a youth career-guidance programme in Bartica. Tamùkke Feminists will also receive G$5 million to produce a video series aimed at strengthening the voices of young women in
ANSA McAL Country Head Troy Cadogan presents Leanna Thompson of Blossom Inc. with the NGO’s Social Investment Award the Wapichan indigenous community in the South Rupununi.
The awards, the company said, represent a commitment by ANSA
(L to R) Sandi Bowen of Tamùkke Feminists, Dr. Ayodele Dalgety-Dean of Blossom Inc., and Magaiva Gonsalves of Project New Nation McAL and the foundation to support the three initiatives, which target
young people and education in communities across the country.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, October 13, 2026
DEU revolutionises Guyana’s education sector, redefines learning with EDPAL Plus launch
DEU Head, Phillip Williams
The EDPAL Plus Learning App is now available on Android and IOS devices
Chief Planning Officer, and Parliamentary Secretary, Mischka White-Griffith (Elton John photos)
THE Ministry of Education’s Distance Education Unit (DEU) is revolutionising education and redefining what it means to learn with the launch of its EDPAL Plus Learning App on Monday at the Ramada Princess Hotel. Alongside this, the Unit also announced the commencement of a Media Mentorship Programme that will include theoretical framework for varying creative skills and will provide hands-on experience with seasoned professionals in the media field to participants. Over the course of two weeks, the programme will cover photography, videography, pre-production, video editing, and audio production. This year ’s Mentorship Programme has participants from multiple
schools, including New Campbellville Secondary School, Charlestown Secondary, Brickdam Secondary, Bladen Hall Secondary, St. Ignatius Secondary, Central High School, Corentyne Comprehensive High School, Fort Wellington Secondary, J.C. Chandisingh Secondary, West Demerara Secondary, and the Richard Ishmael Secondary School, among others. The launch of the EDPAL Plus Learning App and the Media Mentorship Programme by the DEU represents an important conversation about the future of education, in not only Guyana, but also in the wider Caribbean. It is about how learning can be made more accessible, how we embrace the opportunities offered by
technology and how we empower people with the skills to participate meaningfully in an increasingly connected world. T h e E D PA L P l u s Learning App was described as the next generation of Guyana’s educational audio and video platform. It brings lessons, courses, audio books, stories, live TV and radio, all in one place for no cost, and for all devices (android and ISO). It is clearer, faster and easier to navigate, with AI that can learn from users’ listening and viewing habits. It uses these to recommend content that matches interests to support your learning journey. The same applies to the Guyana Learning Channel, with seven channels in the palm of your hands.
Delivering the feature address, Chief Planning Officer, and Parliamentary Secretary Mischka White-Griffith said that with the implementation of EDPAL Plus, learning being made available all day, every day, with the swipe of a screen. Parents, she noted, now have a platform that they can trust on their children’s devices with content that is directly linked to what the child learns at school. The app allows children to move ahead in their subjects or receive assistance or support if they need that. She related that when we discuss digital policy, we are talking about creating a Guyana that is ready for the 21st century. “Education is not just what happens in the classroom; it’s what happens
with every opportunity that we give to the child in nursery, to that person who dropped out of school and wants to get back into the education sector, and these platforms create those opportunities. So, I’m asking you students, educators, story writers, everyone here, to join the Ministry of Education on this journey as we seek to develop our human capital, so that the future we will live, that they will build out for us, is a Guyana that’s beyond our dreams,” she expressed. Head of the DEU, Phillip Williams, in his overview of the app stated that on September 25, 2023, the first version of EDPAL was launched. Today, the platform takes EDPAL to the next step, that is from EDPAL to EDPAL Plus. “We’ve listened to the
feedback that we’ve had when we launched EDPAL, the first version. We learned from our experience. We respond to advances in technology, and we’ve improved. “Here’s what the plus is about. The plus in EDPAL represents the commitment to keep asking, how do we make learning more accessible, more useful, more responsive to the needs of the people we serve? We have worked through radio. We h a v e w o r k e d through television. And now we’re strengthening our position in the digital space. EDPAL is a cornerstone of the Ministry of Education’s digital transformation in Guyana. That’s how important it is,” Williams remarked.
A 17-year-old schoolgirl was shot dead at her home in Wismar, Linden, on Monday afternoon. Police said her 21-year-old boyfriend also died at the scene from what is believed to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The Guyana Police Force said it is investigating the inci-
dent as an alleged murder-suicide that happened around 16:30hrs at Block 22 Squatting Area, Wismar, and involved Toisha Andrews of that address and Anthony Kellon Malachi Cato of Amelia’s Ward, Linden. Preliminary investigations indicate that Andrews had just
returned home from school when Cato, reportedly her boyfriend, approached her with a firearm. Police said he allegedly discharged a round that struck her in the forehead. Cato then suffered what is suspected to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound and died at the scene. Andrews was rushed to
the Linden Hospital Complex, where she was pronounced dead on arrival. A .32 pistol was recovered near Cato’s body. Police ranks were still processing the scene at the time the statement was issued. Investigations are ongoing.
Toisha Andrews
THE SUSPECT: Anthony Cato
Teen fatally shot at home; suspect also found dead
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Funds for subsidised counselling, psychological support to be raised through Awareness Walk
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, October 13, 2026
GLOW for Mental Health- Out of the Shadows Awareness Walk 2025 (Photo: Desert Flower Guyana/Facebook) DESERT Flower Guyana Inc. will be hosting the fifth annual GLOW for Mental Health: Out of the Shadows Awareness Walk, with the aim of creating greater awareness about mental health, while also reducing stigma, bringing mental health out of the shadows and into the conversation. The Awareness Walk will not only continue the mission of raising awareness and challenging stigma but also seeks to raise funds for one of Desert Flower Guyana’s signature projects for 2027: Project TAP: Therapy Access Project. Project TAP, according to the organisation, is an initiative that was designed to make counselling and psychological support more accessible to children,
adolescents and families through subsidised counselling and psychological support, helping to reduce financial barriers to accessing mental health services and support. Along with bringing clarity, reducing stigma, and raising funds to subsidise counselling and psychological support, Desert Flower hopes to build community solidarity, and encourage persons battling mental illnesses to seek help. From the start, the GLOW for Mental Health: Out of the Shadows Awareness Walk fostered collaboration with key partners including the Ministry of Health- Adolescent Health Unit, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Guyana, and the
United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Guyana, to promote mental health awareness and well-being, particularly among children, adolescents and young people. Through this year ’s walk, Desert Flower Guyana is calling for a shift in how mental health is understood, discussed and addressed, while also transforming awareness to meaningful access to mental health support and services and care, all under the theme ‘’Creating Hope Through Action.” The walk is intentionally held at night to create a powerful visual representation of the journey from darkness and silence, towards hope, awareness and support. Darkness can symbolise the feelings of isolation,
fear, stigma and uncertainty that many experience while struggling with their mental health; by standing together and walking through the night a clear message is being sent: mental health struggles do not have to remain hidden in the shadows. The walk is described as a visible movement of light, hope and solidarity, demonstrating that with a community, we can shine a light on mental health and bring it to the centre of our conversations. The use of green glow lights brings this message to life and becomes a symbol for persons sharing this message. For Desert Flower Guyana, the goal is to let people know they can speak openly and freely about mental health, listen without casting judgement, recognise the importance of early support, and to understand that asking for help is not a weakness. Persons interested in participating in this year’s walk
can visit and follow Desert Flower Guyana on social media for the registration link, or they can simply show up at the Bank of Guyana from 6PM on October 17, 2026. The start point is the northern entrance of the Bank of Guyana, where the walk will commence at 18:30hrs (6:30PM), along Main Street (Western Carriageway), right into Lamaha Street, then turn right, into Waterloo Street, right on to North Road before ending at the Bank of Guyana northern entrance. What is Desert Flower Guyana Inc.? Desert Flower Guyana is a registered non-profit organisation that is committed to promoting positive mental health and psychosocial wellbeing among children, adolescents, young adults, and families across Guyana. It was established in 2020 by Ms. Cilandell Glen and is currently supported by qualified volunteers with
expertise in psychology, counselling, social work, public health, adolescent health, education, and community development. These groups of volunteers manage and execute the daily activities of the organisation. The organisation collaborates with government agencies, international organisations, schools, healthcare providers, community organisations, and mental health professionals to strengthen mental health promotion and service delivery throughout Guyana. In the coming years, Desert Flower Guyana plans to strengthen its visibility and programme implementations through existing and new initiatives such as Project G.L.O.W (Growing, Learn, Overcome, Win); Project Mind Him (Mind Him, Hear Him, Support Him), Chest For a Cause- A Mental Health Initiative; and Project TAP.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Fire Service celebrates 69th anniversary with Route March -Minister Walrond, Fire Chief praise investments made, efforts of firefighters behind the scenes
THE Guyana Fire Service (GFS) is celebrating its 69th anniversary, an occasion that was marked with the Route March on Monday, from the Square of the Revolution, along Brickdam, and concluded at Ashmin’s Building on High Street, Georgetown. Delivering remarks, Chief Fire Officer Gregory Wickham reaffirmed the service’s commitment to protecting lives and property, and honouring the contributions made by past and present GFS ranks. Chief Wickham said that the 69th anniversary should be celebrated, because
through commitment, grit, stamina, love for job, people, and the will to ensure the citizens of our country enjoy safety from fires offered by the GFS. The Fire Chief said, “I want to make it very clear to our citizens that we are here to serve you and to offer that, that our motto states, service with confidence and we have confidently been stepping out every time. One of our second-class mottos is when in doubt you turn out and so we always turn out, leaving in many instances our loved ones behind, turning out, donning our uniform and our PPEs just to ensure that
Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond (centre) flanked by ministry officials and Guyana Fire Service ranks including Fire Chief, Gregory Wickham (Photo: Ministry of Home Affairs/ Facebook)
the citizens of this country remain safe.” Furthermore, he expressed sincere thanks to firefighters for their service, and commitment, noting that as the GFS forges into the future it is something that must be admired and given attention to. He affirmed that this is the support of the Government of Guyana, ensuring that over the years the Fire Service is able to acquire new firefighting tenders, fire boats, sky lifts that would allow them to adequately be able to conduct their firefighting duties in the new high-rise structures being
erected. This alone shows that the GFS is willing to advance, as the nation does. “So as Guyana develops and the government of Guyana continues to contribute and support the Guyana Fire Service to acquiring of new assets, more assets, we will be better able to serve the people of this dear nation of ours,” Fire Chief Wickham said. Also at the Route March was Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond. Minister Walrond, according to a post on the ministry’s Facebook page, praised the professionalism, discipline and resilience of the men and women of the Fire Service, noting that their willingness
to risk their lives to protect others deserves national recognition. She highlighted strides being made by the government through investments that are aimed at reducing response times and minimising the loss of life and property, and addressed the GFS’s ability to contain fires, particularly in commercial areas where buildings are closely situated, and attributed containment of fires to better equipment, water access, and firefighting resources. She highlighted the ongoing fire hydrant programme that involves the restoration of current hydrants and the installation of new ones as
communities expand, improving access to water during firefighting operations. While equipment and infrastructure remain important, the Minister stressed that the people behind the Service remain its greatest asset. “The government has done tremendous investment in the assets, but our greatest investment has been in our young people and in the training,” she stated. Minister Walrond also reaffirmed her appreciation for their service, stating, “Guyana is proud of our firemen and women, and we hope and pray that you continue to grow from strength to strength.”
Police destroy 37,000 cannabis plants, 40 pounds of dried cannabis worth $26.8M--at Wiruni
POLICE ranks conducted a cannabis eradication exercise at Wiruni, Upper Berbice River, between 07:00hrs and 19:00hrs on Sunday October 11, 2026. During the exercise, four cannabis cultivations, measuring approximately seven acres in total, were discovered within close proximity, police said in a press release on Monday. The first cultivation measured approximately two acres and contained about 15,000 suspected cannabis plants ranging between four and six feet in height. A makeshift camp containing approximately 40 pounds of dried cannabis was also discovered. The second cultivation measured approximately one acre and contained about 4,000 suspected cannabis plants ranging between five inches and one foot in height. The third cultivation measured approximately two acres and contained about 10,000 suspected cannabis plants ranging between five and six feet in height. The fourth cultivation measured approximately two
Suspected cannabis plants, dried cannabis and makeshift camp, with a combined estimated value of GY$26,832,112, were destroyed by fire at Wiruni
acres and contained about 8,000 suspected cannabis plants ranging between six inches and two feet in height. The suspected cannabis plants, dried cannabis and
makeshift camp, with a combined estimated value of GY$26,832,112, were destroyed by fire at the location. No arrests were made as investigations continue.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Farmers’ Conference discussions to shape future of agriculture – Minister Mustapha -says producers’ recommendations will help guide policies, programmes to boost food security efforts
By Shaniya Harding MINISTER of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, has called for greater collaboration between farmers and the government in shaping the future of Guyana’s agricultural sector. This call was made on Monday at the Farmers’ Conference 2026, which brought together producers, agricultural stakeholders, and regional leaders to discuss the sector’s development and their role in strengthening food security. Hosted under the theme “Innovate, Nourish, Grow: Building a Strong and Sustainable Guyana,” the conference formed part of Agriculture Month 2026 and provided a platform for farmers to share their experiences, identify challenges and contribute recommendations towards a national action plan for agriculture. Minister Mustapha said the conference was established following concerns raised by farmers about the absence of a national forum where they could meet, exchange ideas and have a direct voice in decisions affecting their livelihoods. Delivering the opening address, Mustapha was keen to emphasise that farmers remain at the centre for Guyana’s development. Speaking directly to them, he noted that agriculture extends beyond the planting, harvesting and production of food, but also significantly impacts livelihoods, employment, and opportunities for future generations. “Agriculture is not simply about what we plant, harvest, or produce. It is about families, livelihoods, jobs, and the future we are building for our country,” the minister said. He acknowledged the numerous challenges that come with farming, including the long working days, difficult conditions and sacrifices producers make to sustain their operations. Despite these challenges, he said farmers have continued to play a major role in the country’s development and will continue to get government’s attention and support “To every farmer here this morning, I want to express our appreciation for the work you continue to do. We know farming is not a simple undertaking. It takes patience, dedication, and sac-
Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, has called for greater collaboration between farmers and the government in shaping the future of Guyana’s agricultural sector, at the Farmers’ Conference 2026 (Delano Williams photos)
rifice,” Mustapha said. Moreover, the minister noted that the conference was a flagship activity of Agriculture Month and reflected the government’s commitment to developing a modern, resilient, and globally competitive agriculture sector. He said that the event was designed to go beyond the usual discussions surrounding agricultural development by giving farmers an opportunity to contribute directly to the policies and programmes intended to support them. Mustapha explained that the idea for the conference emerged during one of his outreach engagements, when farmers raised concerns about the lack of a national platform where they could meet and exchange ideas. He said the concern remained with him and eventually led to the establishment of the conference, which he described as an initiative created in response to farmers’ calls for greater engagement. “This inaugural Farmers Conference was created because we listened. We created it because your voice matters. We created it because government alone cannot transform agriculture,” Mustapha said. He added that while the government had established its development vision through its manifesto, the National Development Strategy and the Low-Carbon Development Strategy, the success of those frameworks depended on the experience and practical knowledge of people working throughout the agricultural sector. According to the minister, farmers must have a direct role in the implementation, refinement and execution of policies affecting their livelihoods, as their experiences provide an important under-
standing of the realities of agricultural production. SHAPING AGRICULTURAL TRANSFORMATION He said the conference was intended to help shape the next phase of Guyana’s agricultural transformation by ensuring that the people working in the sector could contribute to the decisions being made. “As a government, we have set our vision through our manifesto, the National Development Strategy and the Low-Carbon Development Strategy. Those documents provide the framework, but any strategy’s success depends on the wisdom, experience, and practical knowledge of those working the land, tending the livestock, fishing our waters, and building agribusinesses across Guyana. This is why this conference is different,” he said. As part of the conference, participants were assigned to thematic breakout groups according to their farming activities and areas of expertise. The sessions were designed to encourage dialogue among farmers, with technical officers from the Ministry of Agriculture assisting the discussions. Mustapha said the objective was to gather ideas, innovations, experiences, and recommendations that could help guide the sector’s development. “I therefore encourage all participants to participate fully in these discussions. This is not a forum for personal requests or individual matters. Those channels already exist and remain open to you,” he said, adding, “Today is about something bigger. Today is about contributing to a national action plan. Today is about helping
Agricultural stakeholders and regional leaders gathered at the Farmers’ Conference to discuss the sector’s development and their role in strengthening food security
to shape the policies and programmes that will help support thousands of farmers, create opportunities for future generations, and strengthen Guyana’s role as a leader in regional food security.”
The minister noted that the gathering included representatives of large-scale enterprises, emerging entrepreneurs, farming organisations, and cooperatives, many of whom possessed specialised
knowledge developed over decades of experience. He said bringing these groups together created opportunities for participants to learn from one another, TURN TO PAGE 17
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Barbina, North West GPHC delivers life-changing cardiac learners win Region One Police Spelling Bee care for Orealla infant
PRESIDENT Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s commitment to expanding access to worldclass healthcare is translating into life-changing outcomes for Guyanese families, with three-monthold Jervis Herman from Orealla successfully undergoing a specialised heart procedure at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). For Jervis’ parents, Glenroy Herman and Nita Penu, the successful intervention brought relief after the discovery of a congenital heart condition threatened to complicate their infant son’s early months of life. The head of state shared Jervis’ story on Facebook on Monday, drawing attention to the successful procedure and the medical professionals whose expertise made it possible. Born at the New Amsterdam Hospital on June 2, Jervis was found to have a breathing problem within his first 24 hours. Further medical attention revealed a hole in his heart, which was associated with recurrent respiratory infections and required intervention to prevent further complications. Glenroy, a staff member at the New Amsterdam Hospital, said exploring treatment options abroad revealed costs of approximately $3 million, placing the prospect of securing timely care under considerable financial pressure. The opportunity to have the procedure performed locally therefore proved in-
Regional Commander, Senior Superintendent Krishnadat Ramana, hands over one of the many trophies to one of the champions at the Guyana Police Force Regional Police Division One Annual Spelling Bee Competition 2026, held on Monday
One of the medical professionals with Jervis
valuable. An international specialist team, working alongside GPHC medical personnel, successfully closed the opening in Jervis’ heart using a minimally invasive device procedure. The intervention was completed in less than 30 minutes, avoiding the need for open heart surgery. Glenroy expressed gratitude to the specialists and hospital staff for the care and support provided, describing the procedure as one of the
best outcomes their family could have hoped for. In September, President Ali met with parents at State House alongside Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony and other senior government officials to advance specialised cardiac care for children requiring complex interventions. At the time, 17 children were identified for heart surgeries at GPHC under an initiative bringing international specialists to Guyana. (DPI)
BARIMA-Waini students Zkhail Obermuller and Devina Samuels emerged as the junior and senior champions, respectively, at the Guyana Police Force Regional Police Division One Annual Spelling Bee Competition 2026, held on Monday. The competition, staged in collaboration with education authorities in Region One under the theme “Spell to Excel and Learn to Succeed”, brought together primary and secondary school learners from across the Barima-Waini Region to showcase their spelling abilities, confidence and determination. Obermuller, 11, a Grade Six pupil of Barbina Primary School, secured the junior championship, while 13-yearold Samuels of North West
Secondary School claimed the senior title. Both students will represent Regional Police Division One at the Guyana Police Force’s Annual Spelling Bee Competition on November 7, where they will compete against representatives from other regional police divisions. During brief remarks, Regional Commander, Senior Superintendent Krishnadat Ramana, encouraged the participants to remain focused on their education, cultivate strong reading habits and embrace discipline as they work towards achieving their ambitions. He urged the students not to allow setbacks to discourage them from pursuing their goals, while congratulating the two champions and commending all the participants
for demonstrating the courage to compete. Ramana also encouraged the young people to continue reading, learning and striving for excellence, reminding them that they have an important role to play in the country’s future. The annual initiative reflects the division’s commitment to youth development, educational advancement and stronger police-community relations through mentorship, school outreach programmes and other community-based activities. Through such initiatives, the Guyana Police Force continues to engage young people beyond traditional law-enforcement activities, promoting positive values and encouraging students to pursue academic achievement.
Ten entrepreneurs receive appliances through START UP STRONG initiative
EMPOWERING Guyanese to build sustainable livelihoods and achieve financial independence remains a key priority, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud has said. Recently, 10 individuals received appliances to help them kick-start or expand their small businesses through the Ministry’s START UP STRONG initiative, which is implemented by the Difficult Circumstances Unit (DCU). Minister Persaud continues to champion self-reliance and economic empowerment by ensuring that persons are equipped
with the tools and resources needed to turn their business ideas into income-generating opportunities. Through the initiative, the Ministry is doing more than providing appliances. It is helping Guyanese take meaningful steps towards financial independence, personal growth and a more secure future. The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security said it remains committed to supporting persons in difficult circumstances as they work towards building sustainable livelihoods for themselves and their families.
10 individuals received appliances to help them kick-start or expand their small b usinesses through the ministry’s START UP STRONG initiative
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 13, 2026
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Timehri Prison shade house now fully operational
THE Guyana Prison Service’s (GPS) shade house at Timehri Prison is now fully operational, providing a protected environment for crop cultivation while supporting efforts to equip inmates with practical agricultural skills for their eventual reintegration into society. The facility is designed to improve crop production by shielding plants from harsh weather conditions, allowing inmates and prison staff to cultivate crops more efficiently as part of
the service’s broader drive to strengthen food production and self-sufficiency within the prison system. According to information from the Guyana Prison Service, the structure features UV-resistant plastic roofing and insect mesh, which help protect crops while providing an environment for training in climate-smart and sustainable agricultural practices. The initiative forms part of the Government’s wider rehabilitation strategy, which places emphasis on practical skills development, personal
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 13, 2026
responsibility and preparing inmates for productive lives after their release. The Timehri facility is among several agricultural initiatives being pursued across the prison system, with similar shade-house technology also being implemented at the New Amsterdam and Mazaruni prisons. Agriculture has become an important component of the GPS’s rehabilitation programme, with inmates at Timehri, Lusignan, New Amsterdam and Mazaruni participating in various farm-
The shade house at Timehri Prison is now fully operational and provides a controlled environment for crop cultivation, allowing inmates and staff to grow crops more efficiently while protecting plants from harsh weather conditions
ing activities. These programmes are intended not only to contribute to food production within correctional facilities but also to give inmates practical experience that could help them secure employment, pursue farming or establish livelihoods in their communities after serving their sentences. At Mazaruni Prison, the country’s largest prison farm supports a broader range of agricultural activities, including crop cultivation, livestock rearing, aquaculture and beekeeping. The experience gained through such programmes can help inmates develop transferable skills, discipline and independence, while providing opportunities to apply their knowledge beyond the prison environment. The agricultural initiative also aligns with the GPS’s wider focus on rehabilitation and reintegration, which includes vocational training, education and behavioural
development. In January 2026, the Government reported that more than 1,300 inmates had participated in rehabilitation and skills-training programmes across the prison system. The training initiatives are intended to improve inmates’ prospects for employment and support their successful return to society. The operationalisation of the Timehri shade house represents another step in linking agricultural production with rehabilitation, while expanding opportunities for inmates to acquire practical skills in a controlled growing environment. As the Prison Service continues to develop agricultural activities across its facilities, the effectiveness of such initiatives will depend on sustained training, consistent production and the extent to which inmates can use the skills acquired to build productive lives after release.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Agriculture ventures account for almost 70% of development bank applications -Mustapha says ‘agri’ ministry’s outreach helping farmers access financing to expand operations
By Shaniya Harding AGRICULTURE, which is one of Guyana’s fastest developing sectors, is slated to see continued growth through the Guyana Development Bank (GDB) and so far, it accounts for almost 70 per cent of the applications that have been received, according to Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha. Speaking on Monday at the Farmers’ Conference 2026, the minister noted that the figures and growing interest are a result of work being done to ensure farmers know what financing is available to them and how they can qualify. He said many producers do not need large sums but require access to smaller amounts that can help them invest in their operations and increase production. This collaborative approach and emphasis on providing opportunities for Guyanese, backed by strategic leadership, is part of the wider effort to strengthen Guyana’s agricultural sector and its role in regional food security. Highlighting the role of the president in regional agricultural leadership, the minister noted that with growing investment by farmers and continued regional engagement, Guyana’s agriculture sector is positioned to contribute to wider efforts to reduce food imports and strengthen the Caribbean’s food security. The Farmers’ Conference 2026, which is slated to become an annual event, brought together farmers, agriculture stakeholders, and regional sectoral leaders. The conference served as a platform for farmers and stakeholders to share their challenges, views and opinions and help shape policies impacting the sector. While work to further develop the sector continues, the minister noted that farmers are already leading in the number of applications currently being made to the Guyana Development Bank, with agricultural applicants accounting for almost 70 per cent of the total. “Most of the applications are from the farming community, the agriculture sector,” he said. Mustapha credited the
which he said has helped mobilise capital, policy reforms, and political will across the region to reduce the Caribbean’s collective food import bill and strengthen food security. He said regional co-operation creates opportunities for countries to share knowledge, strengthen relationships and make better use of available resources. “When our Caribbean neighbours work together, we create opportunities to share knowledge, strengthen
Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha says the agriculture sector accounts for almost 70 per cent of the applications to the Guyana Development Bank (Delano Williams photo)
farmers’ strong interest in sensitisation efforts made by the Ministry of Agriculture, which has been working to ensure producers understand the available financing and the requirements for accessing it. “Many farmers need not large sums of money, but they need some money to increase and invest in their buildings. The development bank is one of the areas, and we have done a lot of work in terms of propagating and informing them about what are the criteria to get loan…. And that is why you have almost 70 per cent of the applicants that are farmers,” he said. The minister’s remarks come as the government continues to prioritise the agriculture sector in Guyana’s national development agenda, with efforts focused on ensuring farmers can benefit from the country’s economic growth. Mustapha said the development of the sector requires continued engagement with the people who depend on it, noting that farmers’ experiences, concerns, and participation must remain central to decisions affecting their livelihoods. “As a government, we cannot make progress in agriculture without the farmers themselves. Their experience matters, their concerns matter, and their participation must remain an important part of the decisions that affect their livelihood. That is why gatherings such as this conference are so valuable. They bring people together, encourage dialogue and provide an opportunity
to strengthen relationships among farming communities, the government, and the wider agricultural sector,” he said. He added that the government must ensure that agriculture remains an area where farmers can expand their businesses, young people can see opportunities for their future, and communities can benefit from greater economic activity. At the regional level, Mustapha highlighted Guyana’s growing role in efforts to strengthen food security across the Caribbean, noting that agricultural development must extend beyond national borders. Moreover, the minister said Guyana is now leading regional efforts in agriculture and food security under President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s leadership. Highlighting the work and impact the President has made in regional agriculture leadership, Mustapha noted, “Agriculture has an important role to play in achieving these objectives. Under President Ali’s leadership, Guyana has continued to play an important part in regional efforts to strengthen food security and expand agricultural co-operation. His engagement at the CARICOM level reflects an understanding that the opportunities before us are not limited to our national borders,” he said adding, “Today, I am proud to say that Guyana is leading CARICOM under President Ali’s leadership in agriculture and food security.” Furthermore, Mustapha pointed to the CARICOM 25 by 2025 Plus Five initiative,
relationships and make better use of the resources available to our region,” Mustapha emphasised. Guyana’s farmers, he noted, remain an important part of these efforts, as the work taking place on farms and throughout agricultural communities contributes not only to national development but also to the country’s ability to support the wider Caribbean. “Our farmers are an important part of that vital effort. The work taking place
in our fields and farms and throughout the agricultural communities contributes to Guyana’s development and strengthens our ability to contribute to the Caribbean. We should take pride in Guyana’s contribution to the Caribbean,” he said, adding that Guyana should take pride in its contribution to regional agriculture and food security as it continues to expand production and create opportunities for farmers.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 13, 2026
More than 3,800 traffic offences recorded last week - speeding, improper tint and vehicle fitness breaches among leading offences
THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) Traffic Department recorded 3,801 traffic offences between October 4 and 11, 2026, with speeding, breaches of prescribed vehicle fitness conditions and improperly tinted motor vehicles among the most frequently detected violations. According to the department’s weekly report, 684
cases of speeding were recorded during the period, while 151 cases involved tinted motor vehicles and 137 related to breaches of prescribed fitness conditions. The figures also showed that 117 cases were recorded for leaving motor vehicles in dangerous positions, while 100 involved motorcyclists or other road users failing to wear safety helmets.
The department further recorded 63 cases involving unlicensed drivers, 61 seatbelt violations and 38 cases of driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or other impairing substances. Other offences included 48 cases involving motor vehicles without functioning rear lights, 37 involving pillion riders without safety helmets, 29 breaches of traf-
The department also continued its road-safety education programme in schools from Monday, October 5, to Friday, October 9, reaching 10 nursery, primary and secondary institutions across Regions One, Two, Three, Four and Eight
fic-light signals, 23 cases involving unlighted front lights and nine cases of faulty parking. The latest figures underscore the range of traffic violations being addressed by the police as the department continues efforts to improve road safety and encourage motorists to comply with traffic laws. Speeding remains a major road-safety concern because excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to react to hazards and increases the severity of collisions. Similarly, driving under the influence, failure to wear seatbelts and neglecting to use protective helmets can significantly increase the risk of serious injury or death in road accidents. The department’s report also highlighted a series of public education initiatives conducted during the week, targeting drivers, patrons of bars, communities and schoolchildren across several administrative regions. Between Sunday, October 4, and Saturday, October 10, traffic ranks conducted lectures and community outreach activities at various locations, including taxi bases, commercial establishments, police stations, public roads and waterfront areas. The engagements covered communities in Regions One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Seven and Nine, among other areas. Locations included Charity Market and the Charity Waterfront in Region Two; Itaballi Landing in Region Seven; Awarewaunau Village in the South Rupununi, Region Nine; and several communities along the East Bank, West Bank and West Coast Demerara. Other outreach locations included the Book A Ride administrative office, Mandela Avenue, Sheriff and Denis streets, Kitty, Ruimveldt, La Grange, Windsor Forest, Den Amstel, Beterverwagting,
Enmore and Mocha. Traffic ranks also visited establishments and public gathering points, including taxi services, bars and other businesses, as part of efforts to promote responsible road use and reinforce awareness of traffic regulations. The department also continued its road-safety education programme in schools from Monday, October 5, to Friday, October 9, reaching 10 nursery, primary and secondary institutions across Regions One, Two, Three, Four and Eight. The schools included Falls Top Nursery, Hosororo Secondary, North West Secondary and Sheba Nursery in Region One; Good Hope Nursery and Sommerset and Berks Nursery in Region Two; Kawall Primary and Little Angels Academy in Region Three; Grove Nursery in Region Four; and Mahdia Nursery in Region Eight. School-based education is an important component
of road-safety efforts, helping children understand traffic rules and develop safer habits as pedestrians and passengers. The combination of enforcement and public education forms part of the broader effort to reduce dangerous road behaviour and encourage greater responsibility among motorists and other road users. The Traffic Department continues to urge drivers to obey speed limits, avoid driving under the influence, ensure their vehicles meet prescribed safety requirements and comply with traffic signals. Motorcyclists and pillion riders are also reminded to wear safety helmets, while occupants of motor vehicles should use seatbelts. Road users are encouraged to exercise caution and recognise that compliance with traffic laws is essential to protecting lives and making Guyana’s roads safer for all.
Speeding remains a major road-safety concern because excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to react to hazards and increases the severity of collisions
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 13, 2026
GARP to launch Oct. 19 as Starr Computer pledges ‘tech’ access, equipment for retirees
THE Guyana Association of Retired Persons (GARP) will be officially launched on Monday, October 19, 2026, with STARR Computer already backing the new organisation with equipment and an offer of hands-on technology access for its members. The launch begins at 4:00 PM at the Georgetown Club, 208-209 Camp Street, under the theme “Empowering Seniors, Strengthening Communities.” Starr Computer has donated a business-grade Lenovo computer and an HP printer to GARP’s administrative office. The company also said it will expand its “Field Trip” offering, currently available to students, to GARP’s membership as a starting point. GARP is a not-for-profit, non-governmental organisation dedicated to the welfare, dignity, security and social inclusion of retired persons across Guyana. Its leadership includes President Joseph Harmon, Secretary Faye Hunte, Treasurer Denis Jaikaran, and Trustees Leslie Sobers and Dr Dawn Stewart. The association is based at 25 Hadfield Street, Werken-Rust. TAPPING RETIREES’ EXPERIENCE In an interview with this publication, President of STARR Computer, Mike Mohan, explained that Starr Computer’s support is rooted in a broader argument about
the country’s workforce and its young people. With Guyana’s legal retirement age at 55 and life expectancy rising, a wealth of experience and wisdom is going unused after people leave formal employment. Mr. Mohan argued that these retirees could be reskilled to help ease the country’s labour shortage. He pointed to the harm that social media is doing to the attention spans, cognitive control and mental health of younger Guyanese, and said links between the generations could help redirect them. GARP’s own executive summary identifies several challenges facing retirees: financial insecurity, limited awareness of pension and National Insurance Scheme (NIS) benefits, social isolation, healthcare concerns and little representation in policy discussions. The association plans to respond with advocacy, education, financial literacy training, health and wellness initiatives, social activities, community outreach and volunteer opportunities. Over the long term, it aims to become the country’s leading advocate for retired persons and to build a national network. Meanwhile, Starr’s Field Trip programme gives participants a free digital business card, along with other benefits at Starr Computer and its partners. Visitors experience the company’s technology products and speak directly with trained staff
about the solutions available in Guyana. The visit includes refreshments, small gifts, and a career-path or IT presentation at the company’s Innovation Center. It ends with a tour of Starr’s in-house farming operation and its solar installation. The company said 54 per cent of the energy it consumes comes from the sun. Starr also holds a Senior Discount Day every Tuesday for purchases. Starr Computer said its interest in the project reflects its history. The company brought computer technology to Guyana in 1991 and trained Guyanese to produce, sell and manage computers under the STARR brand. It said the technology spread quickly across retail, merchandising, manufacturing, distribution, education, consumer, business and government sectors, helping move the country from manual processes to automation. Many of Guyana’s established IT companies, the company noted, began with a close relationship with Starr before becoming independent operations. It named Courts, Fogartys, Riaz, Gizmo, NT and NexTech among them, and said companies from elsewhere in the Caribbean have since come to Guyana to do business. The company said its core goal remains helping Guyanese develop their skills and livelihoods, and that this is why it is backing GARP.
Farmers’ Conference discussions...
strengthen relationships, and identify ways to advance agricultural development. Mustapha also underscored the importance of recognising the contribution of women and young people to the sector, noting that their participation was important to ensuring agriculture remained an area of opportunity for future generations. “Today’s gathering is also special, as we are observing International Year of the Woman Farmer. And at this moment, I want to ask the women farmers in our audience to stand. On behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture, I want to extend our deepest appreciation to you and all other women whose knowledge, labour and enterprise
sustain our food system and advance the wellbeing of families across Guyana,” he said. The conference also provided an opportunity to recognise President Dr Irfaan Ali’s contribution to regional agricultural development. Mustapha noted that the President’s work in food security, climate resilience and agricultural transformation has received regional and international recognition. In 2023, President Ali received an award from the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture for his contribution to food security and sustainable development. He was also more recently honoured with the Caribbean Global Leader
FROM PAGE 11
Award for his contribution to regional development and co-operation. Mustapha said the recognition reflected the President’s focus on advancing agriculture and food security in Guyana and across the Caribbean. He urged farmers to continue working together and contributing to the development of the sector, emphasising that their participation would remain essential to its future. “Your work is important to Guyana,” the Minister told farmers, encouraging them to continue approaching the future with confidence and determination. “Together, let us innovate, nourish and grow,” he said.
GARP President, Joseph Harmon, flanked by the organisation’s members receives the business-grade Lenovo computer and an HP printer for GARP’s administrative office from STARR Computer President, Mike Mohan
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Shotgun, 18 cartridges and suspected cannabis found in Corentyne
POLICE have arrested a 19-year-old man from Albion after a shotgun, 18 cartridges and 25.3 grammes of suspected cannabis were found during an operation at Number One Road, Corentyne, Berbice, on Monday. According to police, the discovery was made at about 10:40 hrs on October 12, when ranks, acting on information received, went to the area and observed four males in the company of two motorcycles. One of the motorcycles bore registration number CS
7869, while the other was unregistered. The ranks conducted searches and found a 12-gauge shotgun, along with 18 matching cartridges, in a black haversack carried by one of the males. Fifteen small zip-lock bags containing leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis were also found. The suspected narcotic was weighed and amounted to 25.3 grammes. Police said the 19-yearold man, who is from Albion, is in custody assisting with the investigation.
The shotgun and suspected cannabis seized by police
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 13, 2026
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Tuesday October 13, 2026) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Chris Gayle-117 (vs SA, Johannesburg, 2007) (2) Suresh Raina-101 (vs SA, St. Lucia, 2010) Today’s Quiz: (1) What has been the result of the third T20 game in the current WI/India series? (2) Who captured the Man-of-the-Match title? Answers in tomorrow’s issue
ENGLISH RACING TIPS LEICESTER 08:24 hrs Waiting For Archie 08:54 hrs Lady Foxtrot 09:29 hrs Wedyan 10;04 hrs Lady Phillips 10:39 hrs That's Random 11:14 hrs Oviedo 11:47 hrs English Time 12:17 hrs New Objective HEREFORD 08:45 hrs Blue Topaz 09:20 hrs Jackstell 09:55 hrs Athena's Dream 10:30 hrs Donnie Azoff 11:05 hrs Miracles Do Happen 11:38 hrs Lucy Glitters WOLVERHAMPTON 11:25 hrs Cuban Fiesta 12:00 hrs Homme De Fer 12:30 hrs Supreme Dancer
13:00 hrs Soft Landing 13:30 hrs Muhandes 14:00 hrs Zachary Hickles 14:30 hrs Neptune Legend 15:00 hrs Coxy's Star IRISH RACING TIPS PUNCHESTOWN 08:35 hrs Kenough 09:10 hrs Silly Mongoose 09:45 hrs Buddy One 10:20 hrs Live To Laugh 10:55 hrs Ealu Tapa 11:30 hrs Granlahan 12:07 hrs Leo Messy 12:40 hrs Back In Favour AMERICAN RACING TIPS FINGER LAKES Race 1 Maturation Race 2 Tekila Race 3 Spettro Race 4 Solo Street Race 5 Shellac Race 6 Savvylicious Race 7 Doc Advantage Race 8 Capt Jax Parrow
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 13, 2026
More than 80 horses confirmed for Showdown of Champions stakes CLOSE to 100 horses are confirmed to run at Sunday’s Showdown of Champions. The stage is set for a thrilling race meet at the Port Mourant Turf Club on Sunday, October 18, 2026. It was confirmed that the Port Mourant Sprint Stakes will feature Hot N Lucky, Barbara, Order & Progress and Grande Rainha. The ‘Clash at D Big Yard’ Stakes are expected to feature Here Comes Heidi, Frontline Warrior, Oy Vey, Royale Rocks, Novo Sol and Daring Move. The feature race is expected to have top horses from Master Z, Jumbo Jet, Jagdeo and Js Racing Stables. General admission for the race meet is $3000, and 10 exciting races are on the cards. The juvenile invitational two-year-old race will be in honour of the late Carlton “Blackmouth” Pluck. The feature race will be the Doodnauth ‘Shook’ Shivmangal Memorial Clash at the Big Yard stakes, where the total purse is $1.6 million. All of the top horses will be fresh and ready for the first competitive race since the Guyana Cup back in August. Below is the provisional programme for the October 18 race day. RACE 1
Carlton “Blackmouth” Pluck Memorial Juvenile Invitational Distance: 1000M 2 Y.O. Native & W.I. Bred 2 Y.O. W.I. Bred Colt/Gelding Allotted 119 LBS 2 Y.O. W.I. Bred Filly Allotted 116 LBS 2 Y.O. Native Bred Colt/ Gelding Allotted 114 LBS 2 Y.O. Native Bred Filly Allotted 111 LBS 5LBS Penalty for Previous Win Native Bred Allowed 5LBS When Meeting W.I. Bred Total Purse: $1 Million 1st $500,000 | 2nd $250,000 3rd $125,000 | 4th $62,500 Entry Fee: $55,000 RACE 2 Sonny Habibulla Memorial Cup Distance: 1300M 3 Y.O. Native Bred Maidens 3 Y.O. Colt/Gelding Allotted 121 LBS 3 Y.O. Filly Allotted 118 LBS Total Purse: $800,000 1st $400,000 | 2nd $200,000 3rd $100,000 | 4th $50,000 Entry Fee: $45,000 RACE 3 Big G Lumber Yard & Sawmill Enterprise Distance: 1200M 4 Y.O. & Over J/K/L Maidens 4 Y.O. & Over Colt/Gelding Allotted 126 LBS 4 Y.O. & Over Filly/Mare Allotted 123 LBS No Class Allowance
Total Purse: $600,000 1st $300,000 | 2nd $150,000 3rd $75,000 | 4th $37,500 Entry Fee: $35,000 RACE 4 Kishawn Pereira Memorial Cup Distance: 1500M J/K/L Winners Of 1 Since August 2025 4 Y.O. & Over Colt/Gelding Allotted 126 LBS 4 Y.O. & Over Filly/Mare Allotted 123 LBS 3 Y.O. Colt/Gelding Allotted 121 LBS 3 Y.O. Filly Allotted 118 LBS 3 Y.O. Allowed 5 LBS As a Weight for Age Allowance. No Class Allowance Total Purse: $600,000 1st $300,000 | 2nd $150,000 3rd $75,000 | 4th $37,500 Entry Fee: $35,000 RACE 5 Armco Construction Company Distance: 1550M I/J/K/L Winners Of 2 & Over 4 Y.O. & Over Colt/Gelding Allotted 126 LBS 4 Y.O. & Over Filly/Mare Allotted 123 LBS 3 Y.O. Colt/Gelding Allotted 121 LBS 3 Y.O. Filly Allotted 118 LBS 3 Y.O. Allowed 5 LBS As a Weight for Age Allowance. No Class Allowance Total Purse: $600,000 1st $300,000 | 2nd $150,000 3rd $75,000 | 4th $37,500 Entry Fee: $35,000
Shazim Mohamed spins TSC to... (From page 23) runs despite Mohamed’s fighting unbeaten 15. Callender had 3-34 and was supported by Charles who took 2- 11. After Mohamed dismissed Jermaine Grovsnor (6) at 10-1 but Nathan Bishop joined forces with the left-handed Lomar Seecharran and looked set to see the lads from Queenstown an easy victory. Both batters were fully entrenched and playing several delightful shots on both sides of the wicket. The 50 came up with a lovely drive from Bishop, but with score on 73-1, Riaz Lafit trapped Bishop lbw for 29 with four fours and a six.
Bishop’s dismissal started a slump for DCC as Mohamed wreaked havoc. Mohamed got rid of Seecharran, lbw, five short of a well- deserved 50 after he had hit six fours and a six at 91-5 before Johnson trapped Mickel Sharma for 11, one of only three double digit scores at 104-6. The talented off-spinner ripped through the batting order like a sharp knife cutting butter as the last four wickets toppled for six runs. Mohamed was supported by Riaz Latif who captured 2-26. At the presentation ceremony Lewis, who made five fifties in 447 runs and took
four wickets, was awarded the Most Valuable Player (MVP) in addition to the most runs award. Lewis was presented with his third Award for being the best fielder. Apple received the Award for the highest score while Callender took home awards for the ‘best bowling figures (7-12 v QC) and ‘most wickets’ (19). Callender took a catch and effected a run out to cop the Prize for ‘Best Fielder in the Final, Mohamed took the Man-of-the-Match and ‘best bowler in the final while Seecharran’s 45 earned him the Award for ‘Best batter in the finals’.
More than 80 horses are confirmed for Sunday’s races at Port Mourant
RACE 6 Forrester’s Lumber & Building Complex Distance: 1300M H1 & Lower Colt/Gelding Allotted 126 LBS Filly/Mare Allotted 123 LBS Weights Allotted by Class 5LBS Per Sub Class Not to Exceed 15LBS Maiden Allowance 5 LBS Total Purse: $800,000 1st $400,000 | 2nd $200,000 3rd $100,000 | 4th $50,000 Entry Fee: $45,000 RACE 7 Doodnauth “Shook” Shivmangal Memorial Clash At D Big Yard Stakes Distance: 1550M E Class Non-Winner in Guyana Open to F1 & Lower Total Purse: $1.6 Million 1st $800,000 | 2nd $400,000 3rd $200,000 | 4th $100,000 Entry Fee: $85,000 Colt/Gelding Allotted 126 LBS Filly/Mare Allotted 123 LBS Weights Allotted by Class 5LBS Per Sub Class Not to Exceed 15LBS Additional 5 LBS Allowance When W.I. Bred Meeting Imported Horses No Maiden Allowance RACE 8
Imported Open 2 Y.O. Sophomore Sprint Distance: 1100M 2 Y.O. Imported Colt/Gelding Allotted 117 LBS 2 Y.O. Imported Filly Allotted 114 LBS 5LBS Penalty for Previous Win Total Purse: $1.6 Million 1st $800,000 | 2nd $400,000 3rd $200,000 | 4th $100,000 Entry Fee: $85,000 RACE 9 Port Mourant Sprint Stakes Distance: 1200M Open To All 3 Y.O. & Over Total Purse: $1.6 Million 1st $800,000 | 2nd $400,000 3rd $200,000 | 4th $100,000 Entry Fee: $85,000 4 Y.O. & Over Colt/Gelding Allotted 126 LBS 4 Y.O. & Over Filly/Mare Allotted 123 LBS 3 Y.O. Colt/Gelding Allotted 121 LBS 3 Y.O. Filly Allotted 118 LBS Weights Allotted by Class 5LBS Per Sub Class Not to Exceed 15LBS Additional 5 LBS Allowance When W.I. Bred Meeting Imported Horses No Maiden Allowance RACE 10 Showdown Of Champions Stakes
Distance: 1750M Open To All 3 Y.O. & Over Total Purse: $3 Million 1st $1.5 Million 2nd $750,000 | 3rd $375,000 | 4th $187,500 Entry Fee: $155,000 4 Y.O. & Over Colt/Gelding Allotted 126 LBS 4 Y.O. & Over Filly/Mare Allotted 123 LBS 3 Y.O. Colt/Gelding Allotted 121 LBS 3 Y.O. Filly Allotted 118 LBS Weights Allotted by Class 5LBS Per Sub Class Not to Exceed 15LBS Additional 5 LBS Allowance When W.I. Bred Meeting Imported Horses No Maiden Allowance RACE PAYOUT CONDITIONS 1. If Three (3) Horses Start Stakes Reduction By 40 per cent. 2. If Four (4) Horses Start Stakes Reduction by 25 per cent. 3. Five (5) Horses to Start Then Third (3rd) prize be paid. 4. Seven (7) Horses to Start Then Fourth (4th) prize be paid. 5. Entry Fee Refunds Entry fee refunds on vet scratched or withdrawn runners will be subjected to a 50 per cent reduction.
SVC/AJM crowned new One Guyana... (From back page) Powered by an unbeaten half-century from the inform Johnathan Fernandes (51), alongside vital contributions from Kemol Savory (27 not out), Jamar Ifill (15 not out), and Boodie (15), SVC posted 144-3. Joshua James took 2-54 and Dequan Bamfield claimed 1-21 for Lusignan, but their reply faltered at 766. Veteran West Indies pacer Miguel Cummins starred with the ball, claiming 3-14, while Nial Smith (1-9) and Ojay Shields (1-18) tightened the screws, and Vish-
wanauth Ramalakhan topscored with 20. As a result, both losing semi-finalists pocketed $500,000, matching the $500,000 awarded to each team that triumphed in their respective zone finals. The packed finals day also featured vibrant undercard action, highlighted by a high-scoring five-over women’s clash where Tapakuma (Elite Warriors) defeated Capoey United by 59 runs. Tapakuma piled up an imposing 111-1, driven by Tramaine Marks’ sensation-
al 58 off 17 balls and Shonette Belgrave’s 40 off 15. In reply, Capoey were restricted to 52-1, with Tapakuma collecting the $90,000 winner’s prize and Capoey taking home $60,000. Adding star-studded entertainment to the schedule, the President’s Exhibition Match saw the One Guyana XI—featuring Ministers Charles Ramson and Steben Jacobs—defeat Team Eagles to cap off an unforgettable day of tapeball cricket in Essequibo.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Jordan game-worn 1998 NBA Finals jersey sells for US$14 million MIAMI -- A GAMEWORN, autographed Michael Jordan road jersey from the 1998 NBA Finals has been privately sold for US$14 million, an auction house announced Monday, calling it the highest price ever paid for a piece of basketball memorabilia. Pennsylvania-based Hunt Auctions announced the private treaty sale and identified the buyer as Miami real estate investor Ron Firman. The red jersey is the one Jordan wore in Game 2 of that series on June 5, 1998; he and the Chicago Bulls beat the Utah Jazz that night to even the matchup at a game apiece. Jordan and the Bulls would go on to win the series in six games, the sixth and final title of his Hall of Fame career. That 1997-98 season was the subject of the 10-episode “Last Dance” documentary series that was released in 2020. “While Michael Jordan’s importance within the sports memorabilia marketplace has long been established it has now escalated to an elite asset class more typically
Basketball superstar, Michael Jordan
reserved for iconic works of art,” said David Hunt, president of Hunt Auctions. “We are very pleased to have been able to facilitate this historic sale which serves as another benchmark for our industry.” The $14 million price would be the second-biggest known cost for a game-worn jersey, behind the $24.12 million paid in 2024 for the jersey worn by Babe Ruth of the New York Yankees when he hit the “called shot” home run against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field in Game 3 of the 1932 World Series. This sale becomes at least the third time a Jordan jersey from that 1998 Finals has fetched at least $10 million.
A jersey from Game 1 was sold at auction for about $10.1 million in 2022 and a jersey from Game 3 was auctioned last month for about $12.3 million. “Michael Jordan was an incredibly talented player who is admired around the world,” Firman said in a news release distributed by the auction house. “I’m very excited about the purchase.” A The jersey that Firman purchased was originally bought from the Bulls by a private collector in 2003, Hunt said, adding that it “has remained within a succinct chain of custody having only changed hands once from the original purchaser.” Just about anything related to the 1998 finals and Jordan’s final season with the Bulls has been the subject of massive interest in the collector space. In 2023, a pair of Air Jordan sneakers that he wore in Game 2 against the Jazz was sold by Sotheby’s for $2.2 million, touted at the time as “a new world record for the most valuable sneakers ever sold.” (ESPN)
Litton Das century puts Bangladesh in control THE wicket-keeper batsman Litton Das on Monday struck a splendid century as Bangladesh strengthened their grip on the one-off Test against Afghanistan, setting the hosts a daunting target of 479 runs on the fourth day at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Afghanistan reached 1323 in their second innings at stumps and they still need 347 more runs to win the Test. Das scored 102 off 117 balls as Bangladesh declared their second innings at 372-7 after resuming the day with their overnight score of 2236. His seventh Test century featured 14 fours. He stayed for 182 minutes at the crease. Bangladesh, who had scored 346 in their first innings, secured a 106-run lead after dismissing Afghanistan for 240. Their strong second innings performance left the visitors facing a formidable chase to win the Test. Das shared a crucial 149run partnership for the seventh wicket with Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who remained unbeaten on 52. Miraz faced 97 deliveries and struck five fours, helping Bangladesh build a commanding position before the declaration. Afghanistan fast bowler Mohammad Saleem claimed two wickets for 69 runs, finishing with match figures of 6-151. Chasing 479 for victory, Afghanistan endured an early setback when Abdul Malik fell for two. He edged a delivery from Ebadot Hossain to wicketkeeper Das, leaving the visitors under immediate
Litton Das scored 102 off 117 balls
pressure. (Scores: Afghanistan 240 and 132 for 3 (Sediqullah 35*, Hashmatullah 19*, Ebadot 2-32) need another 347 runs to beat Bangladesh 346 and 372 for 7 (Litton 102, Shanto 82, Mushfiqur 81, Zia 2-86) Shahidullah joined Sediqullah Atal at the crease but could not provide lasting support. He was dismissed for 19 by Hasan Mahmud, with Das completing the catch behind the stumps. Shahidullah’s innings came off 19 balls and included four boundaries. Afghanistan were struggling at 28-2 when the dismissal left them facing an uphill battle to save the match. Captain Rahmat Shah then joined Atal and helped steady the innings. The pair put together an important 82run partnership for the third wicket, offering Afghanistan some hope of resisting Bangladesh’s attack. However, Ebadot struck again to remove Rahmat, who scored 51 off 124 balls, including five fours and a six. His departure left Afghan-
istan at 110-3 and further increased the pressure on the visitors. Atal and Hashmatullah Shahidi then batted cautiously to take Afghanistan to 1323 at stumps, keeping their hopes alive heading into the final day. Sediqullah Atal was batting on 35 and with him at the end was Hashmatullah Shahidi on 19. Atal struck on six and one four from 126 balls while Shahidi hit two fours and six in his 27-ball unbeaten effort. Ebadot Hossain got 2-32 while Hasan Mahmud claimed 1-31. Afghanistan still require 347 runs to reach their target, while Bangladesh need seven wickets to secure victory. With three wickets down and a substantial deficit remaining, the hosts face a difficult task to turn the contest around. Bangladesh will look to maintain their discipline with the ball on the final day, while Afghanistan must produce a determined batting effort to avoid defeat.
Kyrie Irving returns to Mavs, dazzles in China pre-season game MACAO, China -- THE Dallas Mavericks called a play for Kyrie Irving on the opening possession of his first game in 586 days, much to the delight of the Venetian Arena sellout crowd that roared when the eight-time All-Star caught the ball on the right wing. Irving delivered, driving by Jabari Smith Jr. for a reverse layup, setting off a celebration on the Dallas bench and eliciting an even louder roar from the Chinese fans who enthusiastically welcomed him back after he missed all of last season
while recovering from a torn ACL in his left knee. “A lot of emotions leading into it,” Irving said. “Grateful that Dusty [May] called the first play for me. Had my mind made up just to attack. ... I saw that baseline open up a little bit, “I was imagining how it was going to go, dreaming about how it was going to go. I’m just glad I got that out of the way.” Irving finished with 17 points on 6-of-13 shooting in 22 minutes during the Mavericks’ 132-115 pre-season win over the Houston Rockets on Sunday night.
“I didn’t expect him to play this well after being off for so long, just [because of] the rhythm of the game,” May said. “It’s just a testament to his work.” It was Irving’s first game action since he tore the ACL in his left knee on March 3, 2025. He revealed this week that he sustained a Grade 2 calf strain in December, interrupting his rehabilitation and factoring into the decision to rule him out for the season after the All-Star break. “He’s back to being who he is,” Rockets coach Ime Udoka said. “He’ll only get
Kyrie Irving dazzles in pre-season game
better as he gets his rhythm back in real NBA games.” Irving sat out the pre-season opener Friday as part of the Mavericks’ plan to ease him back into action. He led the Mavericks in scoring in his return and dished out the ball for three assists. “Being able to perform at a high level, that felt amazing,” Irving said. “I humbled myself while also just being aggressive and trying to look like myself again.” It was the 34-year-old Irving’s first time playing alongside reigning Rookieof-the-Year, Cooper Flagg.
One highlight of the Dallas star duo’s first outing together was Flagg throwing a full-court pass to Irving for a transition layup early in the second quarter. Early in the third, Flagg had a spectacular chase-down block on Houston’s Amen Thompson, igniting a fast break that Irving finished with a pull-up 3-pointer. “That was really cool to see, to be able to witness that,” Mavericks guard Max Christie said of Irving’s performance. “He looked phenomenal. It was very, very fun to watch.” (ESPN)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 13, 2026
First Test in Durban
Renshaw delivers again as Australia close on win AUSTRALIA is primed to earn a statement victory and end South Africa’s unbeaten run under captain Temba Bavuma after Matt Renshaw’s remarkable Test continued on day four of their series opener in Durban. Renshaw, in his second game back after a three-year absence, followed his 190 in the first innings with 89 to allow Australia to declare on 314-6. The 30-year-old then dismissed Bavuma with his part-time off-spin late in the day for his first Test wicket. Captain Pat Cummins followed with a perfect set-up of Tristan Stubbs - pushing him back with shorter balls before nicking him off with a full delivery - to leave South Africa 102-4 at the close. Set a world record 421 to
win, they need to bat out the final day for a draw with six wickets remaining. South Africa has won 11 and drawn one of their Tests under Bavuma’s captaincy, including their run to the 2025 World Test Championship final where they beat Australia at Lord’s. This is the first Test in a South African summer that includes two more against the Australians, two against Bangladesh and three against England over Christmas. Even bad light, which cut short the first three days, did not come to South Africa’s aid on the fourth evening. Why Markram holds the key The Proteas’ hopes rest largely on the shoulders of opener Aiden Markram who battled to 45 not out from
115 balls. The right-hander scored a sensational 136 against Australia in the fourth innings of their Test Championship final win and only one active player - Sri Lanka’s Kusal Mendis - can better his average of 45.56 in the fourth innings of Tests. Dragging South Africa out of this position will require immense skill, however. Only twice has a team survived 140 overs to save a Test in the past 13 years. While Markram shared a stand of 66 in 19.4 overs with David Bedingham the pitch appeared becalmed, but by the close even Renshaw was finding extravagant turn. One thing in Markram’s favour is he has now faced 313 balls from Australia’s premier spinner Nathan Lyon
Matt Renshaw had South Africa captain Temba Bavuma caught at short leg in the final hour
in Tests and is yet to be dismissed. Australia may also be without the fielding excellence of Steve Smith. The former captain spent time off the field on day four having been hit on the helmet by a Anrich Nortje bouncer in
making 27. After Ryan Rickelton top-edged a loose pull shot to Josh Hazlewood in the fourth over, Markram showed similar to restraint to that shown by Renshaw in his first-innings hundred. Renshaw again held Aus-
tralia’s innings together, but was more adventurous in his strokeplay to set up his side’s declaration. Whether bad light returns on the final day may determine if the tourists were right to bat on until tea.
Sadaqat, Farhan thump Sri Lanka to give Pakistan 2-0 lead YOUNG sensation Maaz Sadaqat and new captain Sahibzada Farhan repeated their fine showings from the series opener, as Pakistan took a 2-0 lead with a thumping 82-run win over Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi. Having taken the odd call of batting first in the first game, Sri Lanka set themselves to chase in their quest to level the series. They brought in three changes, keeping out their frontline seamer Dushmantha Chameera. But sloppy catching, erratic bowling and an inconsistent batting approach meant they were never really in the game. On a flat track with the
odd variable bounce, Pakistan raced to 24/0 in three overs, with Farhan and Fakhar Zaman breaking free quickly. Sri Lanka had an early chance when Farhan top-edged a slower one, only for short third-man to spill it. Zaman’s attempt to score quickly after the Powerplay led to his fall, giving Maheesh Theekshana his first scalp. But Farhan did not let the off-spinner settle: next over, he hit consecutive 90+ metre sixes off him. The timing didn’t immediately come for Sadaqat. By the time the skipper reached his fifty off 31 balls, Sadaqat had found his tempo, hitting Malinga
for a sensational six over deep point. The duo kept taking their chances, not letting any of their frontline bowlers settle on a length. It did not help that Sri Lanka dropped at least three catches. The 21-year-old then went after Theekshana’s assortment of slot balls. He muscled three sixes off his four balls in the 16th over, leaving him with the most expensive figures of his T20I career. By that time, Farhan had fallen after hitting Dasun Shanaka for four and six. Sadaqat kept the charge on, racing from 51 off 30 to 76 off 40. Even slower ones weren’t spared, as Sadaqat kept find-
Thousands turn out for historic... (From back page) classes, with Imran Mohamed Ally’s Tesla Plaid leading the nine-second bracket. Ally, driving car number 1998, won the nine-second class, while Paramdeo Seeram took the 11-second category in his Toyota Allion 4WD, car number 216. The other car class winners were Afzal Maiku in a Toyota Corolla Fielder Wagon (#289) in the 16-second
class, Ramesh Persaud in a Toyota Corolla Fielder Wagon (#484) in the 15-second class, and Romaine Henry in a Toyota Celica (#81) in the 14-second class. Roshandin won the 13-second class in his Mitsubishi Evolution X (#30), while Sayyad Ramcharran took the 12-second category in a Toyota Corolla EE90 (#137). Ashley Persaud-Jewan-
ram claimed the female class in her Toyota GT-86, car number 162. In the motorcycle categories, Shem Chattersingh won the 600cc Superbike class on a Suzuki GSX-R (#1011), while Stephon Vishmon took the 1000cc Superbike category on a BMW 1000 RR (#342). Steven Chung won the 125cc–212cc motorcycle class on bike number 251.
Maaz Sadaqat slammed 96 off 51, with six fours and seven sixes
ing boundaries – six fours and seven sixes overall– until the start of the last over. Malinga nicely mixed up his slower ones with yorkers,
claiming Sadaqat off the last ball, and four short of his century. Sri Lanka’s chase never really got going. Lahiru Udara, who scored 91 in the first game, fell to a sharp Salman Mirza bouncer, giving Pakistan the early advantage. Sineth Jayawardena, called in for this game, took his chances with three fours in a row off Mirza, one of which was an inside edge that could have hit the stumps. With the ball sitting up nicely under lights, Sri Lanka needed a rapid Powerplay. But with Kusal Mendis taking his time at the other end, Jayawardena fell trying to clear the field off the last ball of the Powerplay. At 35/2 after six overs, they were pushed to the backfoot. Mohammad Imran then
hit the right lengths without losing his radar, using his natural angle to keep pinging right-handers into their body. He took two-in-two after mixing up his pace, as Sri Lanka failed to find big overs to break out of their stupor. He finished with 3 for 11 from his four, having strangled the tourists in the middle overs. Chasing a rapidly rising required rate, Sri Lanka found a belated partnership in No.7 and 8 Chamindu Wickramasinghe and Theekshana, but the 50-run stand only delayed the inevitable. The difference in firepower between the two lineups was quite clear: Sadaqat and Farhan shared 12 sixes between them; Sri Lanka hit three in all. (Cricbuzz)
Cameron: West Indies should... (From back page) every format of the game, and we weren’t able to move our revenue needle. Those were the concerns that we had and, unfortunately, my successors didn’t think it was important.” Cameron identified two central issues facing West Indies cricket. The first,
he said, was outlined by Dehring: CWI funds the entire development of West Indies cricket. “That needs to change,” he said, though he declined to offer a specific model. The second issue, he added, is how revenues in international cricket are shared.
W i t h C W I implementing reforms and players weighing contract cuts, Cameron’s intervention adds fresh pressure on both the regional body and the ICC as West Indies cricket searches for a sustainable way forward.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, October 13, 2026
holds No. 1 as Jamaica, Haiti and Alfred turns the page: Sprint Mexico Curaçao climb CONCACAF rankings queen donates 50 books to inspire Saint Lucian youth GROS ISLET, St. Lucia, (CMC) — JULIEN Alfred has built her reputation on speed, but last Friday, the Olympic sprint champion showed the power of giving back. At her alma mater, Ciceron Primary School, Alfred donated 50 copies of “Peanut and the Julien Alfred Visit” to Diverse Classroom Books, a Saint Lucian charity dedicated to placing new, engaging and diverse children’s books in schools. Written by Saint Lucian author A.L. Dawn French and commissioned by 1st National Bank, the book follows Alfred’s athletic journey, her determination and her historic rise to become Saint Lucia’s Olympic sprint champion. Diverse Classroom Books founder, Shnell Donacien, described the donation as particularly meaningful. A Choiseul native who grew up in London, Donacien trained as a primary school teacher and has worked in education for more than 18 years. Her career has included roles as a teaching mentor, Key Stage 2 Leader, reading curriculum leader and assistant headteacher in England,
Olympic sprint champion, Julien Alfred
India and China, where she has spent the past eight years. “Over the past year, we have visited more than 20 schools, beginning in Choiseul and extending to communities including Vieux Fort, Soufrière, Canaries, Blanchard and Babonneau,” Donacien said. “We plan to distribute Julien’s books during upcoming school visits across the island.” Donacien praised both 1st National Bank and Alfred for supporting the charity’s mission. She said Alfred’s contribution would help bring an uplifting story about a Saint Lucian role model into classrooms and encourage young readers to dream, learn and explore through books.
“We are especially pleased that Julien recognises the importance of literacy and the value of inspiring children to read,” she said. Diverse Classroom Books also welcomes enquiries from Saint Lucian schools seeking book donations and from businesses or organisations interested in partnering to expand the programme and strengthen school libraries. For Alfred, the event was a different kind of victory, one measured not in seconds, but in pages. With 50 new books headed to young readers, the sprint queen is hoping her own story will inspire the next generation to run toward their dreams.
Jamaica tops the Caribbean in latest CONCACAF rankings
MIAMI, Florida, (CMC) — MEXICO remains at the top of CONCACAF, but the latest Men’s National Team Rankings show movement behind them after the 2026/2027 CONCACAF Nations League and the September/October international window. Mexico (2,097) stays first, with the United States (1,877) second after friendlies. Canada (1,821), Panama (1,655) and Costa Rica (1,534) hold third, fourth and fifth, leaving the top five unchanged. Panama remains the highest-ranked Central American nation. Costa Rica and Hon-
duras (1,464) are next among Central American sides after securing 2027 Gold Cup Prelims places through League A. Guatemala (1,446) is fourth after reaching the League A Quarterfinals, and El Salvador (1,145) completes the top five after earning a League A+C Play-In berth. In the Caribbean, Jamaica (1,530) leads after qualifying for the League A Quarterfinals. Haiti (1,516) and Curaçao (1,398), also through to the quarterfinals, are second and third. Suriname (1,328) and Trinidad and Tobago (1,200)
round out the Caribbean top five. Barbados was the biggest climber, moving up seven spots to 28th overall after an unbeaten run to win Group B and qualify for the Nations League B Championship. Curaçao delivered the window’s biggest upset, overcoming a 3-0 halftime deficit at Costa Rica to win 4-3 in League A. The CONCACAF Ranking Index evaluates all national teams, with points earned in the Nations League, Gold Cup, World Cup Qualifiers and other international matches.
Shazim Mohamed spins TSC to 34-run win over DCC in the final By Sean Devers ON a day blessed with brilliant sunshine at Transport Sports Club ground (TSC) the defeated DCC by 34 runs in a low scoring final of the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) U-17 Eline Security INC Logistics 50over cricket tournament for teams in the city. In a contest in which both teams were dismissed well inside of their 50 overs, Man-of-theMatch Off-Spinner Shazim Mohamed exploited a spin-friendly pitch to take 5-45 for TSC after his unbeaten 15 carried his team to a sub-par 144 all out in 29.2 overs which eventually proved a winning total. DCC were bowled out for 110 in 26.5 overs.
MOM Shazim Mohamed
Champions TSC celebrate with their officials
The home team endured an inauspicious start when Afraz Khan was run out for a duck at 8-1. West indies U-19 lefthander Shamar Apple joined Hezekiah Honenkirk and the pair carried the score to 42 before Thierry Davis
removed Honenkirk for 11. With score on 50, Kaylon Callender bowled Mickle Johnson for eight before, three runs later, bowling Apple, the tournament’s best batter, just when he was beginning to look threatening.
Apple, who mauled the Malteenoes attack during his pugnacious 250 in the preliminary round before leaving for the CPL where he did not play a single game, was looking set on 28 with three fours, when the impressive Callender struck
to delight of the DCC fans. The inform Riaz Latif, reached the boundary four times in his 19 and along with the accomplished Emmanuel Lewis, who reached the ropes three times and cleared it thrice in his 42, featured in a 48-run part-
nership for the fifth wicket. But when the 100 was posted Latif departed at 101-5 before Lewis’ demise, off Joshua Charles, left the total on 136-6 and triggered a colossal collapse as the five tumbled for eight (Turn to page 20)
SVC/AJM CC One Guyana T10 Tapeball champions celebrate
SVC/AJM crowned new One Guyana T10 Tapeball champions SVC/AJM CC put on a masterclass at the Anna Regina National Stadium on Sunday, crushing Mahdia (Movements Family) by 67 runs in the grand-final to capture the Lotto/ Let’sBet One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast title. In their first year, the rounded-up unit, led by Kemol Savoury, who was in his fourth final, also won the
$2 million top prize, courtesy of Star Rentals. Led by a scintillating Man-of-the-Final performance from Kevon Boodie, who smashed a blazing 67 off just 32 deliveries—anchored by five fours and six towering sixes—and a fluent 42 off 27 balls from Jonte Thomas, SVC/AJM posted a formidable 132-2 in their allotted 10 overs.
The pair put on a match-defining 119-run partnership in just 8.5 overs, putting the game firmly in their control. In response, Mahdia’s chase never got off the ground as a disciplined SVC pace attack strangled the innings, restricting them to 65-8. Leon Swamy led the bowling effort with 2-3, ably
destructive 65 off 25 balls, including seven sixes and a boundary. Ali and Andy Lall (33 off 14) laid the platform with a blistering 72-run opening stand in 4.2 overs, while Yeudestir Persaud added a quickfire 23 off 13. Despite Devon Wharton claiming 2-44 for GrillMaster, their batting lineup completely collapsed in the chase, bun-
dled out for 57 in 9.4 overs. Junior Sinclair’s 19 off 12 was the only double-digit score, as Neiland Cadogan wreaked havoc with 4-11, backed by Persaud (2-6) and Orrin Gibson (2-9). The second semi-final proved equally one-sided as SVC/AJM brushed aside Lusignan Bulls DTP II by 78 runs. (Turn to page 20)
Cameron: West Indies should consider International cricket pullout over financial crisis
Drag racing action back in Berbice at the Rose Hall airstrip (GT Tuners Photo)
Thousands turn out for historic Berbice Invasion drag race event – GMR&SC buoyed by support from Ancient County
THOUSANDS of fans turned out on Sunday for the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club’s (GMR&SC) Berbice Invasion drag race meet, representing one of the largest fan turnouts of any event outside the South Dakota Circuit. The event marked the first time the Rose Hall Canjie venue hosted time- bracket drag racing in GMR&SC’s modern history.
supported by Ojay Shields (2-13) and Keyon Sinclair (2-14), sealing a comprehensive victory and leaving Mahdia to settle for the $1 million runners-up purse. Earlier, Mahdia steamrolled GrillMaster Sip N Play All-Stars by 100 runs in the first semi-final. Batting first, Mahdia posted a commanding 1575, powered by Ershaad Ali’s
GMR&SC president, Mohamed Shairaz Roshandin, said, “We want to thank all the fans, spectators, and racers who turned out yesterday for our Berbice Invasion. The support and love the ancient county gave GMR&SC left me speechless; I and the team were heartened by the enthusiasm for the event.” “To see so many fans and racers and their families turn out to the venue tells us that Berbice is definitely going
to be something we do on a yearly basis moving forward. All in all, we had a great day of racing across all classes, and while there may have been a few setbacks, we overcame them and put on a show. A big thank you to all again,” he added. Meanwhile, there were several winners across seven car classes, a female category and three motorcycle (Turn to page 22)
KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC) — FORMER Cricket West Indies president Dave Cameron has urged the regional governing body to consider pulling out of international cricket if its financial struggles continue, saying such a move may be necessary to force the International Cricket Council to take notice. CWI is undergoing major changes to its structures and competitions as it battles significant financial challenges. Chief executive officer Chris Dehring has described West Indies cricket as being “at an important crossroads.” Among the changes is a 25 per cent cut in retainer fees for international players’ contracts. Players are expected to accept or decline the cuts this week following the conclusion of the tour of India. Cameron, who served as CWI president from 2013 to
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Former Cricket West Indies president, Dave Cameron
2019, said he anticipated the current situation, blaming in part an ICC revenuesharing model he considers unfair and weighted toward cricket’s biggest nations, led by India. Speaking on The Mason
and Guests talk show in Barbados, Cameron said he had written about the issue a decade ago and championed it within the ICC, where he helped push for the creation of committees. “I got so upset in meetings (to the point) where I challenged people that we would stop playing with them because it was just unfair that you would get all the resources,” Cameron said. He pointed to the ongoing series in India, claiming India could make “north of about $100–$200 million” from the contest while it costs West Indies Cricket to take part. “It just doesn’t make sense,” Cameron said. “No matter if you are the best team in the world, you can’t improve your revenues. The model has to change. In 2016, we proved that. “(Some) 10 years ago we were the best team in (Turn to page 22)
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026