Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 14-07-2026

GLDA rejects ‘false, misleading’ claims over welfare of animals

says they were quarantined, certified, continuously monitored by veterinarians throughout journey from Brazil

His Excellency President Dr Irfaan Ali signed the Book of Condolence for the late former Emir of Qatar, His Highness Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, on Monday at the Qatar Embassy on New Market and Carmichael Streets. The Head of State extended condolences on behalf of the Government and people of Guyana to the Government and people of Qatar. The former Emir, who died on July 12, 2026, is remembered for his visionary leadership, remarkable statesmanship, and his immense contribution to the development of modern Qatar (OP photo)

The vessel Mega Motti of BK International arrived at La Guira Port in Venezuela on July 12 with 88 containers of relief supplies for survivors of last month’s deadly earthquakes which occurred seconds apart. The humanitarian shipment comprised food, medicines, machinery and tanks and forms part of a regional response led by President Dr Irfaan Ali with support from several CARICOM member states and the private sector in Guyana. The supplies were received by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Venezuela Yvan Gil, alongside Guyana’s Ambassador to Venezuela Dr Richard Van-West Charles (Photo: Robert Montgomery Persaud/Facebook)

content

Natural Resources Minister asserts, says law has made Guyana attractive for investors

Rodrigues says

is

–– GLDA rejects ‘false, misleading’ claims over welfare of animals

Imported cattle safely, comfortably housed at Ebini facility

–– says they were quarantined, certified, continuously monitored by veterinarians throughout journey from Brazil

THE Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) confirmed last night that the shipment of imported cattle at the centre of recent public discussion has arrived safely at its Ebini Livestock Facility.

Chief Executive Officer Dr Dwight Walrond in a video message from the facility indicated that the animals are now settled in pasture and under continued observation by the authority’s technical team. As he spoke the animals could be seen in the background.

He said the cows had arrived safely and were already beginning to adapt to their new surroundings, where they would spend the coming days under close monitoring by production staff, pasture specialists, and veterinary personnel.

“These animals, they are now like what any cattle would do. They’re just exploring their surrounding for the time being,” Dr Walrond said.

He noted that the animals had been placed in a pasture and that the necessary mineral supplements were already available at the facility.

He said the cattle would remain under observation as they transitioned into their new environment, adding that by the following day, they were expected to be “well rested, comfortable, and start adapting to their new location.”

“The animals are in the pasture, so you can rest assured. We have commenced our new stage of breeding programme for our beef and

dairy farmers throughout Guyana,” Dr Walrond added.

NO INHUMANE TREATMENT

Meanwhile, earlier on Monday, the GLDA moved to counter what it described as a wave of false, misleading, and unsubstantiated claims circulating on social media concerning the welfare, transportation, and management of the shipment of imported cattle which at the time was en route to the Ebini facility.

In a statement, the GLDA said the health and humane treatment of the animals remained the highest priority at every stage of the importation process and firmly rejected suggestions that the cattle had been neglected, abandoned, or moved without veterinary oversight.

According to the authority, the cattle underwent a mandatory seven-day pre-export quarantine in Brazil prior to their departure.

During that period, the animals were inspected, monitored, and tested by Brazil’s competent veterinary authorities, who officially certified them as healthy and free of transboundary animal diseases before they were cleared for export.

On arrival in Lethem, the animals were subjected to a further round of veterinary inspection carried out by the GLDA itself, a step the authority said was necessary before the cattle could be cleared to continue their journey onward to the Ebini Livestock Facility.

The GLDA said the journey from Lethem to Ebini was conducted in strict compliance with established animal-welfare protocols.

Mandatory rest stops were built into the transport schedule every four hours, at which point the animals were provided with feed and clean drinking water supplemented with electrolytes.

At each stop, GLDA veterinarians and animal-health personnel conducted routine welfare assessments, checking the animals for any signs of

ally in place throughout the transport process.

Addressing reports of a delay encountered during the operation, the GLDA explained that a temporary hold-up at a river crossing was not the result of poor planning or inadequate care for the animals. Instead, it said, the delay stemmed from prevailing tidal conditions and precautionary operational measures put in place to ensure the safe transfer of livestock transport vehicles across the river.

The GLDA said these operational decisions were

stress, illness, injury, or fatigue.

The authority emphasised that veterinary supervision and technical support remained continuous for the duration of the operation.

On that basis, the GLDA specifically refuted claims that the animals had been kept continuously confined for six days, describing such assertions as “entirely false” and dismissive of the welfare procedures that were actu-

made on the advice of its veterinary and technical personnel, with animal welfare as the guiding consideration. Even during this period of delay, the authority maintains, the cattle continued to receive adequate feed, clean drinking water, veterinary care, and continuous monitoring.

The authority confirmed that mortalities were recorded among the livestock during the course of the operation. While acknowledging that any

loss of livestock during transport is regrettable, the GLDA said the isolated deaths were promptly documented and handled in line with established veterinary protocols.

Importantly, the authority noted that under the terms of the procurement contract governing the importation, the supplier is contractually obligated to deliver all animals alive to the GLDA’s Ebini Livestock Facility. As a result, the supplier will be required to replace the three animals that died, at no additional cost to either the Government of Guyana or the GLDA.

PUBLIC ASSETS

The GLDA firmly clarified the ownership and purpose of the cattle, stressing that the animals are public assets procured by the Government of Guyana under a national livestock development programme.

The initiative, the authority said, is designed to strengthen the country’s genetic-improvement efforts, enhance national food security, and boost domestic livestock productivity.

The GLDA explicitly rejected suggestions circulating online that the cattle are linked to, or intended to benefit, any privately owned or privately operated farm, describing such claims as false.

GLDA reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, science-based animal-health management, and adherence to internationally accepted animal-welfare standards.

The authority urged members of the public to rely on verified information from official sources and to disregard misinformation that it says seeks to undermine what it calls a nationally important agricultural-development initiative.

Guyanese-born poet

John Agard wins record third CLiPPA award

GUYANESE-BORN British poet, playwright and children’s writer John Agard has won a record third CLiPPA (Centre for Literacy in Primary Education Poetry Award), further cementing his legacy as one of the most celebrated voices in children’s literature.

CLiPPA winner for a third time

Agard’s distinguished career has earned him numerous accolades, including:

The Queen’s Gold Medal for Poetry (2012), awarded by Queen Elizabeth II on the recommendation of a committee chaired by Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy; the BookTrust Lifetime Achievement Award (2021), becoming the first poet to receive the honour for his outstanding contribution to children’s literature; and election as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature (2007) in recognition of his significant contribution to literature.

New kitchen facility transforms school feeding programme in Bashaizon

THE completion of a $5 million school kitchen, funded through Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), is improving access to meals for students of Bashaizon Village in the Deep South Rupununi.

The facility provides a more convenient space for food preparation and

serving. It was established to support the school’s hot meal programme and replace the previous arrangement, where meals were prepared in the village kitchen before being taken to the school.

Speaking to the Department of Public Information (DPI) on Monday, Senior Councillor Jacintha Johnson said the

facility, although awaiting final furnishings and more equipment, has already made a positive impact on pupils, teachers and parents.

Johnson explained that the new location has made the process easier for pupils, as they no longer have to travel far to receive their meals.

“I think it’s an improvement for the school children. Before, they used the village kitchen, but now I think it is much nearer and it benefits the children and the school. They have to walk across to the kitchen and eat their breakfast and lunch,” Johnson said.

The senior councillor noted that the village is working to complete the facility, with the remaining resources expected to be used for equipment and supplies.

The hot meal programme currently ben -

efits 39 pupils from the nursery and primary schools, along with six teachers.

This includes 20 nursery pupils and one teacher, as well as pupils and teachers attached to the primary school.

Johnson said the initiative has also helped reduce the financial burden on parents by ensuring children receive meals while at school.

“Everybody is glad to get the hot meal. We were worried because children were not taking their lunch, but now at least they are eating something, taking breakfast or lunch at the school,” she stated.

The community is also working to strengthen the programme by increasing agricultural production to provide fresh vegetables for the daily meals.

(DPI)

Companies linked to Brutus’ wife at centre of testimony as first trial begins

–– prosecutors allege dismissed senior cop abused his office while overseeing procurement, payment approvals within GPF

THE Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts heard on Monday that former Assistant Commissioner of Police Calvin Brutus allegedly used his office as Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police (Administration) to benefit businesses linked to his wife.

Opening the State’s case on Monday, Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) prosecutor and attorney, Darin Chan, alleged that Brutus instructed that 221 payment vouchers relating to businesses linked to his wife be submitted to him in January 2024.

Brutus, 46, an attorney-at-law by profession, is before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty on one count of misconduct in public office and 221 counts of liability of official.

The charges form part of a wider SOCU investigation into the alleged misappropriation of approximately $800 million in funds from the Guyana Police Force (GPF).

The first charge alleges that while serving as Assistant Commissioner of Police and performing the duties of Deputy Commissioner (Administration), Brutus used the authority of his office to create the opportunity for businesses connected to his wife, 26-year-old Adonika Alicia Aulder, to defraud the State of large sums of money.

It is further alleged that in January 2024, Brutus instructed Senior Superintendent of Police Bharrat Persaud, the GPF’s Finance Officer, to submit to him 221 payment vouchers relating to those businesses. According to the charge, the vouchers were never returned to the Police Finance Office.

Persaud was among four witnesses called by the prosecution during the opening day of the trial. For over an hour, he outlined the role of the Police Finance Office, the Force’s procurement and payment approval process and the manner in which payment vouchers were prepared, processed and maintained.

The senior officer testi-

fied that shortly after assuming duties as Finance Officer in October 2021, he received a written directive from Brutus setting out the procedures governing the procurement of goods and services within the Force.

Recalling the contents of the directive, Persaud told the court that, “The letter specifically states... that all procurement of goods and services for the Guyana Police Force must receive the approval of the Deputy Commissioner (Administration).”

He said the directive further required that purchases for all Police messes receive approval before any expenditure was incurred from government line items.

According to Persaud, the document also required the Finance Office to ensure that no payment submission was processed without Brutus’ approval.

He testified that “All submissions for payment must be examined by the Finance Officer to ascertain that every submission has the approval of the Deputy Commissioner (Administration). In the event that any does not have his approval, same should be reported to the Deputy Commissioner (Administration).”

Persaud further stated that he was required to prepare weekly reports detailing payment vouchers received and processed.

“The Finance Officer is required to submit at nine hours every Monday a return of all vouchers received and processed,” he told the court.

The Finance Officer explained that requests for goods and services originated from the Quartermaster Stores before being forwarded to the Deputy Commissioner (Administration) for approval.

Persaud testified that contracts valued between $250,000 and $1.5 million required approval from the Ministerial Tender Board before they could be awarded. He said contracts exceeding $1.5 million and up to $15 million required approval from the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB).

Persaud testified that procurement submissions included quotations, business registration documents and Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and National Insurance Scheme (NIS) compliance certificates before they were forwarded for approval.

Once the documents reached the Finance Office, he said, he ensured they bore Brutus’ approval before processing.

“I will then peruse the document to ensure that it has Mr. Brutus’ approval, which would usually have ‘CB’, meaning Calvin Brutus, his initials,” Persaud testified.

When asked how he knew the initials belonged to Brutus, he replied: “I know that being his initials and his approval because I would have inquired from him.”

The witness also described how payment vouchers were prepared after goods were delivered.

He said the vouchers passed through several sections within the Police Finance Office before being signed by him and then forwarded to Brutus for approval in his capacity as Deputy Commissioner (Administration).

According to Persaud, the vouchers were subsequently examined by the Ministry of Home Affairs before being approved by the Permanent Secretary as Accounting Officer for the Police Force.

They were then returned to the Police Finance Office, assigned numbers and entered into the Integrated Financial Management and Accountability System (IFMAS).

MORE TESTIMONY

In addition to Persaud, three other witnesses testified on Monday. They were Registrar General of the General Register Office, Raymon Cummings, Police Sergeant Lerone Wilkinson of SOCU, and Deeds and Commercial Registry Clerk Lashawna Canzius.

The clerk was called to testify because she is the custodian of records at the Deeds and Commercial Reg-

istry. Her evidence was led to tender business registration documents establishing that Triple A Depot, whose name appears to reflect the initials of Adonika Alicia Aulder, is owned by Brutus’ wife.

She also produced records relating to South Quata Contracting and General Supplies Inc., another company owned by Brutus’ wife.

Wilkinson, an investigator with the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), was the second witness. He testified that on September 19, 2024, he visited the Commercial Registry’s Business Names Department, where he obtained the business registration documents for Triple A Depot and South Quata Contracting and General Supplies Inc. He said he subsequently took the documents to SOCU, where copies were made. The documents were later tendered and admitted into evidence as exhibits.

Cummings subsequently tendered a certified copy of the couple’s marriage certificate.

The trial is scheduled to continue on October 8 and 12 from 13:30hrs., and on October 13 from 09:30hrs for a full-day hearing.

Upon the resumption of the trial, Persaud will be cross-examined by Brutus’ defence counsel, including attorneys-at-law Domnick Bess, and Yuborn Allicock. The prosecution’s case is also being presented by Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Natasha Backer.

Brutus has denied the allegations.

BACKGROUND

The case is one of sev-

eral criminal proceedings arising from a 2024 SOCU investigation into alleged financial irregularities within the GPF.

Brutus was dismissed from the GPF by the Police Service Commission (PSC) in February 2025, bringing an end to a policing career spanning more than 25 years.

The dismissal followed his arraignment on more than 200 criminal charges.

Brutus and his co-accused—his wife, Adonika Aulder; Police Sergeant Kevin George; Latoya Brummell; and businessman Asif Zafarally—are facing multiple charges, including money laundering, in connection with the alleged misappropriation of State funds.

Prosecutors allege that while serving as acting Deputy Commissioner of Police (Administration), Brutus abused the authority of his office to divert public funds for personal benefit and later attempted to conceal the proceeds through multiple bank accounts.

Investigators allege that approximately $300 million

is tied to properties and other assets owned by Brutus and Aulder, while a further $500 million has been frozen in bank accounts belonging to the couple, their businesses and their young son. The charges were recommended by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) following an extensive probe.

Brutus has consistently denied the allegations, maintaining that the charges are fabricated.

He contends that the funds comprise his personal savings accumulated over the years, along with monetary gifts received from family and friends for his wedding and during the Christmas season.

He remains on more than $16 million bail and, as part of his bail conditions, is required to lodge his passport with the court and report to the police periodically.

His co-accused were also granted bail and are similarly required to lodge their passports with the court and report to the police periodically.

Shaping Guyana’s Next Chapter

IN a timely release of figures to mark World Population Day 2026, the Bureau of Statistics has presented compelling evidence that continued investment in education and youth development is yielding tangible results for Guyana.

But the good numbers reflect a larger national story, one of a country deliberately constructing its future by equipping its young people with the knowledge, skills and opportunities to thrive in a rapidly changing economy.

Perhaps the most striking figures are the 56.7 per cent increase in the number of young people obtaining bachelor’s degrees or equivalent qualifications between the third quarter of 2021 and the fourth quarter of 2024, and the significant drop in the number of young people considered not in education, employment or training (NEET), from 35.7 per cent to 25 per cent over the same period.

These are not just statistical improvements. They are the lives of thousands of young Guyanese being transformed through greater access to education, training and employment opportunities.

Every student who stays in school, every graduate who joins the workforce and every young entrepreneur who starts a business is a contribution to a stronger, more resilient nation.

For decades, youth unemployment and lack of educational opportunities had been a bane for developing countries.

The growing population can be either a demographic dividend or a demographic burden, depending on the policies followed.

It looks as though Guyana is more

and more set in making sure its youth is one of its biggest assets and not its biggest lost opportunity.

The government’s strategy has been to remove many of the financial barriers that have historically prevented families from accessing quality education.

Free education from nursery to university level has become a fundamental national policy, backed by huge investments in school infrastructure, digital learning platforms and financial assistance for families.

The expansion of the Because We Care grant, school uniform and supplies support, subsidised CSEC and CAPE examination fees, and the National School Feeding Programme is an acknowledgement that educational success is dependent not only on what happens in the classroom, but also on ensuring that children have the support that they need to attend school and stay there.

Equally important has been the dramatic expansion of access to higher education. The Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) has seen applications to the University of Guyana soar and has disbursed over 54,000 scholarships, signalling the rising aspirations of young Guyanese and an unprecedented drive to expand access to higher education.

But today education reaches far beyond the traditional academic credentials. Guyana’s economy is being diversified, with major investments in infrastructure, energy, manufacturing, technology and services, and the demand for technically skilled workers continues to grow.

Programmes such as the Youth Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Programme (YEAP), the Youth Entre-

preneurial and Skills Training (YEST) initiative and the Presidential Award for Youth, Entrepreneurship and Robotics (PAYR), are helping to bridge the education-employment gap by providing young people with practical, industry-relevant skills.

Importantly, these initiatives also acknowledge that not all young people are going to take a traditional university route. Technical education, vocational training and entrepreneurship are all vital elements of national development, especially in an economy that is rapidly changing structurally.

Equal significance should be attached to the government’s focus on entrepreneurship.

Policymakers are creating an environment where young people are being empowered not just to get jobs, but to create jobs by encouraging innovation, providing business training and assisting with access to grants and soon to financing through the proposed Guyana Development Bank.

These kinds of investments have wider ramifications for national development.

A better educated and skilled workforce increases productivity, improves the ability of the country to maximise the benefits of its growing economy and enhances competitiveness.

It also promotes social mobility, reduces inequality and increases national cohesion.

The Bureau of Statistics’ findings also point to another important reality: good policy-making is based on good data.

As Chief Statistician Errol La Cruz correctly pointed out, labour-market information enables governments to

better align education and training with the changing needs of the economy. For Guyana to maintain this momentum and prepare for the challenges ahead, evidence-based decision-making is critical.

Of course, success should not lead to complacency. The decline in the NEET rate is promising, but one in four young people are still classified as such.

This remains a large segment that must be catered for through focused interventions, increased job opportunities and sustained investment in education and skills development.

Similarly, higher university enrolment and scholarship opportunities must be matched by efforts to ensure that graduates are able to find meaningful employment that utilises their qualifications.

Investment in human capital pays off most when education is well connected to economic opportunities.

But the trend is clearly up. Guyana is demonstrating that investing in people yields tangible results.

As the nation undergoes an unprecedented economic transformation, ensuring that young Guyanese have the knowledge, skills and confidence to fully participate in that progress will remain one of the country’s greatest responsibilities.

The latest figures offer reason for hope.

They show that when governments put education, skills development and opportunity first, young people respond.

In doing so, they are not only improving their own prospects but also laying a firm foundation for Guyana’s future prosperity.

LCDS-funded eco-lodges creating jobs, supporting Mainstay/Whyaka’s community development

RESIDENTS of the Mainstay/Whyaka Village are benefitting from employment and increased tourism through an eco-lodge initiative funded under Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS).

Resident Valita Fredericks told the Department of Public Information (DPI) that the facility, known as the Lake View Cabins, is managed by the Village Coun -

cil and has been providing employment and generating income for the community since opening nearly a year ago.

The eco-lodge is in a gated environment, a stone’s throw away from the popular Lake Mainstay.

It consists of two cabins and an additional building with three self-contained rooms: a king room at an affordable $15,000 per night,

a queen room for $12,000 per night, and a standard fancooled room offering visitors comfortable accommodation while exploring the Lake Mainstay area.

Fredericks explained that revenue earned from the facility is reinvested into the community.

“The village pays us as workers…and we make contributions. If a relative or somebody from the village

dies, we assist,” she said, noting that the initiative also supports wider community development.

She described the opportunity to work at the ecolodge as rewarding.

“It’s really a great opportunity to work in my village and showcase this here,” Fredericks said. “I think it’s something really great to showcase Mainstay, put us on the map, [and] know where

people can locate us.”

In addition to the eco-lodges, Mainstay/ Whyaka Village is home to several other community projects, including a cassava processing facility, a water treatment facility and a shade house, along with a caged fish initiative, all of which contribute to the village’s continued development and economic growth. (DPI)

Police to appeal dismissal of cybercrime charges against ‘Bryan Max’

THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) has announced its intention to appeal a ruling by Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore dismissing two charges against Bryan McIntosh, known as “Bryan Max,” under the Cybercrime Act No. 16 of 2018.

According to a press release issued by the GPF on Monday, the force will challenge the July 9, 2026 ruling. The GPF said that on November 23, 2023, McIntosh was charged with two offences.

The first offence was for using a computer system to attempt to excite hostility or ill will on the ground of race, in contravention of Section 18(1)(e) of the Cybercrime Act No. 16 of 2018, contrary to Section 18(2) of the said Act, committed against Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo.

The second offence was for using a computer system to attempt to excite ethnic divisions on the ground of race, in contravention of Section 18(1)(e) of the Cybercrime Act No. 16 of 2018, contrary to Section 18(2) of the said Act.

The GPF said the charges arose from comments McIntosh allegedly made in a Facebook Live video.

According to the GPF, McIntosh allegedly said: “Jagdeo is pay Critic everyday fa call black people hungry belly and low lives, every day he get a cheque from Jagdeo, every day, he get a good job, come come and collect lil money, come and collect a bag ah money, call them hungry belly and low lives, call the black people hungry belly and low lives, cuss deh leader, cuss deh leader and demean the leader into nothing.”

The GPF said McIntosh also allegedly stated: “Critic is being given friendships deals because he does do Jagdeo work, cuss black people every day, hungry belly and nasty belly low lives, cuss dem whole day as payment for Critic cussing black people, Jagdeo does give critic a big contract.”

The GPF said the court ruled that “the hostility which the allegations might generate would arise from the alleged conduct attributed to Mr. Jagdeo and not because of his race.”

The force further said the court found that “the words

relied on by the prosecution contains no exhortation, encouragement or appeal inviting Afro-Guyanese people to direct hostility towards Mr. Jagdeo because of his race.”

The GPF said the court, in dismissing the second charge, ruled that “the prosecution must adduce evidence that the accused attempted to promote or encouraged division between the ethnic communities of Guyana on the ground of the race.”

The force further said the court found that, based on the words relied upon by the prosecution, it was unable to

–– maintains evidence capable of establishing prima facie case

draw that inference, stating that “the words do not advocate separation between ethnic groups, they do not urge one ethnic community to oppose another, they do not promote racial superiority or inferiority, nor do they encourage discrimination between the ethnic groups in Guyana.”

Having reviewed the court’s ruling and the evidence adduced during the trial, the GPF said it is of the view that the evidence was sufficient to establish a prima facie case and that the magistrate’s decision warrants appellate review.

The force said it will therefore appeal the ruling.

A farm, an assassination, a thrown grenade and a stolen election

IN 1980, a global figure from Guyana and someone who symbolised the intellectual talent of the CARICOM region, Walter Rodney was assassinated.

It took decades after his death, with the PPP in government to hold a Commission of Inquiry into his murder. The APNU+AFC came to power while the inquiry was deep into its work and terminated the commission.

The commissioners still submitted their report, which the APNU+AFC parliament refused to adopt in the House. When the commission was dissolved, the PNC as a party, the AFC as a party, did not issue a condemnatory response. So, the record shows that the PNC, the WPA and the AFC do not think it was necessary to have a Commission of Inquiry into Rodney’s death. But these very people want an official investigation of a 70-acre farm that President Ali owns. If in the annals of political theory, that is not political vulgarity, then political theory does not exist.

During the regime of APNU+AFC, a grenade was thrown at the SUV, the owner of which was leaning on the car. He was, Glenn Lall, the publisher of one of the leading newspapers in Guyana, the Kaieteur News.

To make an attempt on the life of one of Guyana’s newspaper owners necessitated a serious enquiry of a judicial nature but no one in Guyana, including the Stabroek News which has morphed into the Kiskadee Watch, and Transparency International –Guyana Inc. (TIGI), asked for that judicial route.

The parties in government at the time was the PNC as part of APNU, WPA as part of APNU and the AFC. These strange bedfellows in July 2026 want a Commission of Inquiry into a farm of 70 acres owned by President Ali. In the annals of

political theory, if that is not elephantine stupidity then political theory does not exist.

In March 2020, Guyana held its mandatory general elections. After voting day, Monday, March 2, next day, March 3, the world, the global community in general witnessed one of the ugliest manifestations of power intoxication and it was taking place right here in Guyana.

From March 3 to July 30 the most sickening attempts by an incumbent to retain power through the hijacking of the national election was played out in front of the world, and it was a political pantomime and a political circus never seen before in the world since competitive elections came into being as a way of a society choosing its governors.

The PPP won the 2020 election and when it settled down in office, held a Commission of Inquiry into this global disaster and it was not a domestic or regional disaster. It was a global tragedy and the world treated it as such. No one from the Stabroek News, TIGI, PNC, WPA, AFC testified at the investigation. In fact, the PNC and AFC rejected the life of the commission, and ridiculed the findings. TIGI and Stabroek News did not write even one word on the commissioners’ report.

The Stabroek News, TIGI, the PNC, the AFC and the infinitesimally small WPA are demanding an inquiry into the 70-acre farm of President Ali. In the annals of political theory, if this is not a journey of twisted minds looking for the lost continent of Atlantis, then political theory does not exist.

What is the world saying about us here in Guyana when our politics produces politicians who behave more facetious than clowns in a circus? A highly discredited politician, Azruddin Mohamed shouted out

from the rooftop that President Irfaan Ali has a mega farm of 150 acres and inside that farm could be found poultry and sheep rearing and other commercial activities.

Mr. Mohamed in a desperate attempt to secure the impossible –societal acceptance – magnified everything he saw on the farm. It turned out that what he saw as stretching for 150 acres was a mere 70 acres. And what follows has propelled Guyana into the theatre of monkeys looking for nuts and when they find it, they put it in a place in their anatomy that is too sensitive to write about. What follows has to be donkeys at play and they are butting their heads against each other. The people who are

supposed to be elected leaders that sit in the highest forum of the land want the state to commission a judicial inquiry into the president’s farm because a discredited politician says he smelled a rat. So, we become worse than a banana republic and hold a judicial inquiry into the president’s private, commercial venture and no one has shown the nation just what illegal thing the president did.

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.

Guyana-led humanitarian aid arrives in Venezuela for earthquake victims

A Guyana-led humanitarian relief shipment for communities affected by the devastating June 24 earthquakes in Venezuela has arrived safely at La Guaira Port, marking the successful delivery of a regional assistance effort spearheaded by President Dr Irfaan Ali.

Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud announced on his social media page that the vessel Mega Motti, operated by BK International, reached the Venezuelan port on July 12, carrying food and medical supplies for earthquake-affected communities.

According to Persaud, the shipment forms part of a coordinated regional humanitarian response led by President Ali with the support of CARICOM member states and Guyana’s private sector.

The supplies were officially received by Venezuela’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yvan Gil, alongside Guyana’s Ambassador to Venezuela, Dr Richard Van West-Charles.

“Guyana remains a reliable partner in times of crisis and stands in solidarity with the Venezuelan people as they recover from the devastating impacts of the earthquake,” Persaud said.

The vessel departed Guyana last week after being loaded at the BK Wharf in Kingston, Georgetown, where Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, oversaw the

dispatch of the humanitarian supplies on behalf of President Ali.

The shipment represented one of the largest regional humanitarian initiatives coordinated by Guyana and included contributions from the Governments of Belize, The Bahamas, St. Lucia, Grenada, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

In total, the cargo comprised 88 containers filled with food items, medical supplies and other relief materials, along with 300 black water storage tanks and two pieces of heavy earth-moving equipment to assist recovery efforts.

Prior to the vessel’s departure, Dr Singh had said the relief mission reflected President Ali’s immediate response to the tragedy, noting that the Guyanese Head of State had swiftly expressed condolences following the earthquake before mobilising both national and regional support.

He had emphasised that the initiative attracted an overwhelming response not only from the Government of Guyana, but also from the local private sector, Guyanese citizens, Venezuelans living in Guyana and several CARICOM governments.

Dr Singh also acknowledged the contributions of the participating CARICOM member states, describing the operation as both a national and regional humanitarian effort.

He stressed that the assistance demonstrated Guyana’s commitment to supporting its western neighbour during a time of immense hardship.

“Venezuela is our neighbour, the Venezuelan people are our neighbours, and so we consider this to be the least that we could do as a country in this moment of tragedy in support of our Venezuelan brothers and sisters,” Dr Singh had said.

The Government had also indicated that the relief supplies would form part of the wider international humanitarian response already underway to assist communities impacted by the earthquake, reaffirming Guyana’s commitment to standing with the Venezuelan people throughout the recovery process.

South Dakota Circuit road network creates direct link to CJIA

–– improves access to surrounding communities

GUYANA’S Ministry of Public Works, through its Special Projects Unit (SPU), has completed a major road network around the South Dakota Circuit, creating a direct link between the Soesdyke-Linden Highway and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), while simultaneously rehabilitating the racing facility to international standards ahead of the GT Challenge de las Américas.

Providing a public update on the project, Head of the SPU, Colin Gittens, said the initiative, a brainchild of President Dr Irfaan Ali, was designed to improve connectivity and community access

Head of the Ministry of Public Works’ Special Projects Unit (SPU), Colin

Gittens

rather than simply providing access to the racing circuit.

Speaking on the project’s development, Gittens said

the first phase, launched in 2024, involved upgrading approximately six kilometres of road from the South Dakota Circuit to the Timehri junction.

“This road project is not merely about having access to the racing track. This project is the brainchild of His Excellency Dr Irfaan Ali, and it started in 2024, where the SPU had upgraded a section of this road from the racing circuit heading to the Timehri prisons,” he said.

Since then, the SPU has significantly expanded the network, completing approximately 10 kilometres of road linking the circuit to the Glass Factory and the Soesdyke-Linden Highway.

The South Dakota Circuit has been fully resurfaced with more than 6,000 tonnes of high-grade asphalt as part of extensive rehabilitation works to meet international motorsport standards (Sachin Persaud photo)

The works included about 1.6 kilometres of rehabilitation on the Glass Factory Road and roughly seven kilometres of new construction on the connector road behind the circuit. Work has also progressed on the section leading to the Timehri Roundabout.

Gittens added that a contractor is completing a further 1.3-kilometre stretch from the highway junction to the completed section of Glass Factory Road, which will complete the final link in the network.

Taken together, he said, the works create a continuous road connection between the Soesdyke-Linden Highway and CJIA.

“In all, this road connects, or forms a connection, from the Soesdyke-Linden Highway to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport,” Gittens said.

He explained that the new route provides a significant shortcut for motorists travelling from Region Ten and Guyana’s hinterland, adding, “If someone is coming from Region 10, from Lethem, or Kwakwani, or even Linden itself, and they are going to the Timehri Airport, they don’t have to drive all the way around. They can use this as an access to the airport.”

Beyond reducing travel time, Gittens said the project has transformed access for residents living along the corridor, many of whom previously had to contend with roads that were virtu-

ally impassable. He noted, “About six months ago, a lot of sections of this road was impossible, because even trucks could not pass in.

The decision was to come in and upgrade the entire stretch, so the people in the community can be able to benefit from a proper structure and have accessibility.”

He added that the upgraded network now enables surrounding communities to more easily access the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, CJIA and destinations beyond.

“The road is not about just the track; it is about connectivity and community access.”

REHABILITATED CIRCUIT

The road network forms part of a broader transformation of the South Dakota Circuit, where the Ministry of Public Works has completed extensive rehabilitation works to prepare the venue for international competition.

Executed over an intensive two-month period, the restoration required roundthe-clock operations to meet strict international deadlines ahead of Guyana hosting the third leg of the GT Challenge de las Américas, the first time an English-speaking country stage that round of the prestigious championship.

According to the ministry, the intervention became necessary after years of deterioration caused by heavily

laden trucks using the circuit because there was no designated bypass road. With the new road network now in place, heavy vehicles will be able to bypass the racing facility, helping to preserve the newly rehabilitated track.

More than 6,000 tonnes of high-grade asphalt were used to completely resurface the circuit, creating the smooth, level finish required for high-performance racing for vehicles with low ground clearance. The project also included the application of professional track and grid markings and the installation of advanced safety barriers to meet international standards for both competitors and spectators.

Moreover, the ministry said the rehabilitation fulfils President Ali’s vision of positioning Guyana as a regional hub for sports tourism and entertainment while supporting the development of the country’s growing orange economy.

While the final 1.3-kilometre section of road remains under construction, the ministry said the completed works have already established a more efficient transport corridor between the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, the South Dakota Circuit and CJIA, reducing travel time for airport-bound motorists while improving access for nearby communities and supporting the long-term preservation of Guyana’s newest premier motorsport facility.

Gov’t expands nationwide drainage push to unlock agriculture, strengthen flood resilience

THE Government is moving ahead with an ambitious nationwide drainage and irrigation expansion programme that is expected to transform agricultural production, reduce flooding and unlock thousands of acres of new land for cultivation and development.

The initiative, being implemented through the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), includes the construction of several “Hopelike” canals across key agricultural regions, with billions of dollars allocated in Budget 2026 to modernise Guyana’s drainage infrastructure and improve climate resilience.

Minister of Housing and Water Collin Croal recently said the programme extends well beyond traditional flood-control measures, describing it as a critical investment that will create opportunities for expanded agriculture, housing development and economic growth.

The works are planned for several regions, including Regions Three, Five and Six, where large-scale drainage canals modelled after the Hope Canal on the East Coast of Demerara will be constructed to channel excess water safely to the Atlantic Ocean while also supporting irrigation during dry periods.

The Hope Canal, commissioned to reduce flooding along the East Coast corridor, has long been regarded as one of the country’s most significant flood mitigation projects. The new canals are intend-

ed to replicate that success in other vulnerable areas while supporting Guyana’s rapidly expanding agricultural sector.

According to Minister Croal, improving drainage and irrigation infrastructure will make previously inaccessible lands suitable for productive use.

“Once you address drainage and irrigation, it allows us to open up new lands to access,” the minister said, noting that additional canals in Region Six will facilitate the expansion of agriculture into new areas.

He explained that opening these lands would allow for increased cultivation of a wider range of crops, including hemp in areas closer to Skeldon, while significantly boosting overall agricultural production.

Croal said the NDIA, operating under the Ministry of Agriculture, is already investing heavily in what he described as a “massive new drainage programme” designed to meet both current and future development needs.

The initiative complements the government’s wider strategy of expanding agricultural output while strengthening the country’s resilience to increasingly unpredictable weather patterns associated with climate change.

Budget 2026 allocated $81.9 billion for the continued improvement of drainage and irrigation systems across Guyana, representing one of the largest public investments in the sector.

Agriculture Minister

Zulfikar Mustapha had earlier announced that this year’s programme includes the rehabilitation and construction of canals, sluices and pumping stations nationwide, alongside the development of approximately five major high-level canals in Regions Five and Six.

Those canals are designed to drain water directly from inland agricultural areas into the Atlantic Ocean, reducing the risk of prolonged flooding that has historically affected farming communities.

Construction of the Hope-like canals in Berbice is progressing steadily and remains on schedule for completion during 2026.

Once operational, the expanded drainage network is expected to benefit thousands of farmers and households by protecting farmlands from flooding, reducing crop losses and providing more reliable irrigation during dry periods.

Officials have said the improved infrastructure will not only increase agricultural productivity but also support the opening of new farming districts, helping Guyana diversify production while meeting growing domestic and export demand.

The programme forms part of the administration’s broader agenda to modernise the country’s agricultural sector through strategic infrastructure investments, positioning Guyana to increase food production, strengthen food security and better

withstand the impacts of climate change.

With agriculture continuing to play a central role in the country’s

economic diversification strategy, the new drainage and irrigation works are expected to serve as a foundation for long-

term rural development, expanded cultivation and more resilient farming communities across Guyana.

Bartica now home to Banks

DIH’s seventh Demico Qik Serv

–– Minister

Rodrigues says company is a ‘symbol of local entrepreneurship, innovation, and resilience’

BANKS DIH Limited officially opened its seventh Demico Qik Serv restaurant in Bartica, marking the brand’s first branch in the historic mining town and extending its footprint further into Guyana’s regions.

According to a press release, the opening ceremony was held at First Street and Third Avenue and drew members of the Bartica community, regional officials including the Mayor of Bartica, Mr. Anthony Murray, and the Regional Vice Chairman of Region Seven, Mr. Alden

Marslowe.

The featured address was delivered by Ms. Susan Rodrigues, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, who joined the occasion in recognition of the branch’s contribution to local economic activity and regional development. Banks DIH Limited leadership in attendance included the Chairman/Managing Director Mr. Clifford Reis, members of the Board of Directors, and Executive Members.

Also present were Mr. Desmond Gajraj, whose more than 40 years in the

Residents of Bartica and the surrounding communities can now access the company’s fast-food products. The company’s seventh Demico Qik Serv location was officially opened recently at First Street and Third Avenue (Banks DIH photo)

restaurant industry include decades spent as General Manager of the Demico Division, and Mr. Maxwell Denny, Division Executive of Demico Division, who brings over 20 years of financial management expertise to the role.

The release said that Minister Rodrigues in her remarks highlighted the rich history of Banks DIH Limited and its long service to Guyana, describing the company as a symbol of local entrepreneurship, innovation, and resilience. She commended the company for its continued investment in communities and its commitment to bringing quality products and services closer to customers.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Gajraj highlighted that the company’s expansion into Bartica is a result of visionary leadership and its ability to leverage opportunities.

“The opening of this Qik Serv branch in Bartica represents Banks DIH Limited’s commitment to communities. A commitment that is truly Guyanese, as it provides opportunities for local farmers, local talent, and local suppliers,” he was quoted as saying.

Mr. Denny, in his vote

of thanks, offered gratitude to all those who participated in the momentous occasion, including the employees, suppliers, contractors, and leaders who made it all possible.

“…to our loyal customers and the residents of Bartica and surrounding communities, we express our deepest gratitude for your continued trust and support. Your confidence in our company has been the foundation of our success for generations, and we remain committed to serving you with excellence,” he noted.

The new Bartica branch adds to Demico Qik Serv’s continued expansion across Guyana, bringing its authentic Guyanese flavours and tastes closer to communities outside the capital, the company said in its release adding that the branch is expected to create new employment opportunities for residents of Bartica and the surrounding area and marks the seventh location for the fast-food chain.

Demico Qik Serv is part of Banks DIH Limited, a Guyanese food and beverage manufacturer with over 70 years of history and a portfolio spanning restaurants, beverages, and consumer products across the country, the release added.

Expanded social protection brings relief to thousands of senior citizens

–– transport grant brings added relief

THOUSANDS of senior citizens across Guyana are now benefitting from a new annual $20,000 transportation-support grant, part of the government’s broader effort to ease the cost of living while strengthening social protection for the country’s ageing population.

The grant, the rollout of which began on July 8, is being distributed through the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security and represents an additional $1.9 billion in direct support for old-age pensioners.

Combined with the monthly old-age pension of $46,000, the initiative will see more than $54 billion transferred annually to eligible pensioners nationwide.

The transportation allowance forms part of a wider package of measures announced in Budget 2026 to improve the quality of life for senior citizens, alongside expanded healthcare services, enhanced residential care and increased financial assistance.

Beyond the new grant, the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security continues to administer a broad range of programmes aimed at supporting vulnerable citizens, including old-age pensions, public assistance for persons with disabilities and individuals facing financial hardship, as well as child protection and other social services.

Recognising the country’s growing elderly population, the government has also committed to expanding home-based care services and improving access to healthcare through telemedicine, mobile health units and virtual clinics, particularly

for seniors living in rural and hinterland communities.

Plans outlined in Budget 2026 also include co-investment in elderly care facilities, the construction of a new senior citizens’ home and improvements to services and living conditions at the Palms Geriatric Home.

The new transportation grant has been welcomed by recipients, many of whom say the additional financial support will help offset rising everyday expenses.

One pensioner, whose name was not disclosed, described the distribution process as smooth and efficient.

“I didn’t expect it to be so, and I get through very fast. I’m really thankful for it,” she said.

Another senior noted that the grant comes at an important time, particularly as transportation costs continue to rise.

“I am happy that you get it because remember we always need money. We always need money for something. Because, remember passage going up... It used to be $100 but now we are paying $40 more,” she explained.

Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr Vindhya Persaud has encouraged pensioners to collect the grant at their convenience, noting that the distribution period extends until November 1, 2026.

In a video message, the minister explained that pensioners can have their vouchers stamped at any post office across the country or at the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security offices before collecting the payment.

She emphasised that there is no need for seniors to rush to distribution centres im -

mediately, as the process is spread over several months to ensure orderly and convenient access.

To further simplify the process, pensioners who receive their monthly old-age pension through commercial banks or the MMG payment platform will have the

$20,000 transportation allowance deposited directly into their accounts before the end of July, eliminating the need to visit a payment location.

The transport grant reflects the administration’s continued focus on strengthening social safety nets as Guyana’s economy expands.

In recent years, the government has steadily increased old-age pensions while introducing new benefits designed

to improve the financial security and overall well-being of senior citizens.

Officials have said these investments are intended not only to provide immediate relief from rising living costs, but also to ensure that older Guyanese have greater access to healthcare, social services and dignified care as part of the country’s long-term human-development agenda.

Ambassador Rodrigues-Birkett continues international meetings

–– as UNSG campaign heats up

GUYANA’S candidate for the position of United Nations Secretary-General, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, has continued her diplomatic outreach, meeting with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar.

According to a statement issued on Monday by the Permanent Mission of Guyana to the United Nations, Rodrigues-Birkett and Dar discussed her candidature during their meeting as she seeks to build international support ahead of the UN se-

lection process.

During the engagement, the Guyanese diplomat reaffirmed the importance of “principled and effective multilateralism” and underscored the critical role of the UN Secretary-General in ensuring adherence to the purposes

Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett on Monday met top Pakistani officials to discuss her candidature for the position of United Nations Secretary General (Photo: Permanent Mission of Guyana to the United Nations/Facebook)

and principles enshrined in the UN Charter.

She also outlined her vision for a “more agile, efficient and effective United Nations” that is responsive to the needs of member states and better equipped to address the complex challenges facing the international community.

The meeting with the senior Pakistani official is the latest in a series of high-level engagements undertaken by Rodrigues-Birkett as part of her campaign to secure broad international backing for her candidacy.

In recent weeks, she has held discussions with several influential global leaders and diplomats, most recently meeting with leaders of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), with the regional bloc backing her nomination for the post.

She has also met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, their talks focused on key issues affecting the United Nations, including ongoing institutional reforms and measures aimed at strengthening the organisation’s effectiveness in responding to global challenges.

Rodrigues-Birkett has also met with Heads of Mission of European Union member states, Republic of Korea Foreign

Minister Cho Hyun and former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, drawing on his experience leading the world body between 2007 and 2016.

As part of the official selection process, she participated in an informal interactive dialogue with UN member states on June 18, presenting her vision for the future of the organisation and responding to questions from member states.

President Dr Irfaan Ali formally announced Guyana’s nomination of Rodrigues-Birkett in early June, describing her candidacy as both timely and appropriate given the mounting global challenges confronting the international community.

The President said Guyana’s successful tenure on the UN Security Council from 2024 to 2025 demonstrated the country’s ability to provide leadership on the global stage.

He also highlighted Guyana’s increasing influence on issues such as climate change, biodiversity conservation, food security and sustainable development, arguing that these experiences position Rodrigues-Birkett well to lead the United Nations during a critical period in its history.

Local content legislation proving critics wrong

–– Natural Resources Minister asserts, says law has made Guyana attractive for investors

MINISTER

of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat has defended Guyana’s local-content legislation, arguing that it has exceeded expectations by expanding opportunities for Guyanese, while continuing to attract foreign investment.

Bharrat made this known during a recent episode of the ‘Starting Point’ podcast, during which he stated that despite early concerns that the law would discourage companies from entering the country’s oil and gas sector, it has done the opposite.

“There are many who said initially that local content will kill the sector, that it will keep out foreign investment from Guyana, and we have proved them wrong,” the minister said.

According to Bharrat,

the legislation has enabled Guyanese businesses and workers to participate meaningfully in the rapidly expanding petroleum industry, creating opportunities that may not have existed without a legal framework requiring local participation.

It was then that he pointed to examples of farmers supplying produce for offshore operations, Guyanese-owned catering companies providing meals aboard floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessels, and local businesses offering transportation, accommodation, legal, accounting and other professional services to companies operating in the sector.

“In many countries where there is not a legislation, you find that the locals are basically locked

out of the sector because they’re not given the opportunity to build their capacity and get truly in-

volved in it,” Bharrat said. Against this backdrop, he explained that international oil companies

often rely on long-standing overseas suppliers and service providers, making it difficult for local businesses to enter the industry without government intervention.

“We had to break that cycle,” he said.

As such, he noted that Guyana’s legislation requires companies to source a range of goods and services locally, while establishing minimum targets for areas such as food supply, transportation and medical services.

Added to the sectors listed under Schedule One of the Local Content Act, the minister stated that the legislation has been influencing investment decisions, with foreign companies increasingly seeking Guyanese partners before expanding their operations.

He said investors recognise that additional services are likely to be incorporated into the legislation over time and are therefore establishing partnerships with local businesses from the outset.

To this end, he disclosed that many Guyanese companies have entered joint ventures with international firms, enabling them to access the capital and expertise needed to compete in the oil and gas industry.

Bharrat also highlighted the employment and training benefits arising from the legislation, noting that oil companies and major contractors are legally required to train and employ Guyanese while reporting on their compliance to the Local Content Secretariat.

Teacher trainees receive fire safety, emergency-preparedness training

The comprehensive training session equipped the future educators with the knowledge and practical skills needed to respond effectively to emergencies that may arise in educational and workplace settings

ceived practical training in fire safety, emergency response and basic first aid as part of efforts by the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) to strengthen emergency preparedness in schools.

The comprehensive training session, held on July 13, equipped the future educators with the knowledge and practical skills needed to respond effectively to emergencies that may arise in educational and workplace settings.

During the interactive exercise, officers of the Guyana Fire Service guided the trainees through the appropriate procedures to follow in the event of a fire, the discovery of suspicious items or packages, and accidents requiring an emergency response.

Participants also received instruction in basic first aid, enabling them to provide immediate assistance before professional medical help arrives.

In addition to the classroom component, the trainees were exposed to practical workplace safety measures aimed at reinforcing the importance of preparedness and effective emergency response in schools and other institutions.

As part of the exercise, the Guyana Fire Service distributed fire-extinguishing balls to the trainees under its ongoing nationwide mass-distribution initiative, which is intended to improve access to basic firefighting equipment and enhance public-safety awareness.

The training forms part of the Fire Service’s wider public education programme, which seeks to build emergency-response capacity among citizens and promote a culture of fire prevention and safety across Guyana.

Labour Ministry hosts National Youth Skills Forum, Expo this Wednesday

THE Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning, through the Board of Industrial Training (BIT), will host the National Youth Skills Forum and Skills Search Expo 2026 on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre from 09:00 hours to 16:00 hours.

The event will bring together government representatives, employers, educators, training institutions, industry leaders and young people to examine the skills needed to

support Guyana’s expanding economy and strengthen collaboration between the country’s education and employment sectors. Panel discussions will focus on workforce readiness, apprenticeships, technical and vocational education, industry partnerships and the changing demands of the labour market. Attendees will also have the opportunity to hear from professionals representing a range of sectors on the skills employers are seeking in today’s workforce.

PSC commends members for humanitarian support to earthquake-hit Venezuela

THE Private Sector Commission (PSC) has expressed gratitude to its member organisations for contributing food, medicines and other essential relief supplies to assist communities affected by the recent earthquakes in Venezuela, as Guyana’s private sector joined a wider regional humanitarian response.

In a statement, the PSC said the collective effort reflected the generosity and solidarity of Guyana’s business community and underscored its commitment to supporting neighbouring countries during times of crisis.

The commission confirmed that the humanitarian shipment arrived safely at La Guaira Port in Venezuela on Sunday aboard the vessels Mega and Motti.

The relief supplies formed part of a regional assistance initiative spearheaded by President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan

Ali, with support from CARICOM member states and the private sector.

The shipment was received by Venezuela’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yvan Gil, in the presence of Guyana’s Ambassador to Venezuela Dr Richard Van-West Charles.

According to the PSC, the successful delivery of the supplies demonstrates the value of regional co-operation and the importance of coordinated humanitarian action in responding to natural disasters.

The commission extended its appreciation to all member organisations that had answered the call for assistance, noting that their contributions of food, essential medicines and other relief items would help support communities affected by the earthquakes.

“The PSC sincerely thanks every member organisation that answered the call to assist,” the organisation said, adding that the response exemplified the private sector’s commitment to humanitarian service, regional co-operation and standing in solidarity with people in need.

The relief effort is part of a broader regional response aimed at providing emergency assistance to Venezuelan communities impacted by the recent seismic events.

Complementing the Forum, the Skills Search Expo will feature exhibitors from government agencies, training institutions and the private sector, giving participants the opportunity to

explore career pathways, learn about skills training programmes and engage directly with employers.

As Guyana’s economy continues to diversify, ensuring that people possess the

skills required to fill available opportunities has become increasingly important. The Forum and Expo form part of the Ministry’s efforts to promote lifelong learning and support the development of a skilled and competitive workforce.

Students, job seekers, parents, educators, employers and members of the public are encouraged to attend. Admission is free.

Argentina to wear 'lucky' blue away kit against England

HOLDERS Argentina will wear their navy blue away kit to face England in the semi-finals of the World Cup in Atlanta on Wednesday.

England will be in their all-white home kit for the game at the Atlanta Stadium (20:00 BST), which will be shown live on the BBC. They have only worn the

ENGLISH RACING TIPS

LEICESTER

08:45 hrs Emerald Bay

09:24 hrs Amazonica

09:54 hrs Betelgeuse

10:24 hrs Dottie Diamond

10:57 hrs Lope Y Lunda

11:30 hrs Fille Imbassee

12:04 hrs Dir Rodneyredblood

BEVERLEY

09:17 hrs Fast Track

09:47 hrs Jack Rabbit Slim7s

10:17 hrs It's Debatable

10:48 hrs Bradbury

11:23 hrs Crafty Spirit

11:58 hrs Thornaby Annie

WOLVERHAMPTON

11:53 hrs Lady Magu

12:25 hrs George Wickham

12:55 hrs Manly Fireball

13:25 hrs Wilbur

13:55 hrs On Key

14:25 hrs Classy Clarets

15:55 hrs Educate

darker kit once during the tournament, in their 3-1 win against Jordan in the group stage. While the move could be because of kit regulations, it has also been suggested by media in Argentina that it is linked to superstition - with the kit associated with iconic World Cup wins over England in 1986 and 1998.

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS

DURBANVILLE

08:35. hrs Beer With The Boys

09:10 hrs Give It Lady

14:46 hrs Miss New York

15:20 hrs In A Timely Manner

15:55 hrs Fort Yukon

IRISH RACING TIPS

KILLARNEY

12:09 hrs Celtic Motif

12:40 hrs Dolly Hello

13:10 hrs Cause I Like You

13:40 hrs No More Porter

14:10 hrs My Girl Grace

14:40 hrs Gaoth Chul

15:10 hrs Eagle Fang

AMERICAN RACING TIPS

FINGER LAKES

Race 1 Goodys Girl Race 2 I'm Gunna Race 3 Starship Tango Race 4 Vino's Valentine Race 5 Dreams Of My Father Race 6 Saratoga Sunset Race 7 Hot Rod Hottie

Race 8 Lady Banker

Which nation has won the most World Cups?

IN the 96-year history of the men's Fifa World Cup, just eight nations have won the tournament. Of those eight, six have done it multiple times.

Brazil hold the record for most World Cup wins with five, emerging victorious in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994 and 2002.

Germany and Italy are the next most successful nations with four trophies each. Three of Germany's wins were as West Germany, prior to the national teams of West and East Germany merging after the 1990 World Cup.

Defending champions Argentina have three World Cups to their name, while France and Uruguay have two tournament wins each.

England and Spain are the only winners that are onetime champions.

With France, Spain, Argentina and England making the semi-finals, it is guaranteed that a previous winner will lift the trophy again this summer.

Lionel Messi holds the record for the most World Cup minutes played - and has become the all-time World Cup top scorer this summer

• 1962 - Brazil

• 1966 - England

• 1970 - Brazil

• 1974 - West Germany

• 1978 - Argentina

• 1982 - Italy

• 1986 - Argentina

• 1990 - West Germany

• 1994 - Brazil

• 1998 - France

• 2002 - Brazil

• 2006 - Italy

• 2010 - Spain

• 2014 - Germany

• 2018 - France

They defeated the Three Lions 2-1 in the 1986 quarter-finals, in which Diego Maradona scored the 'Hand of God' goal, and also secured a last-16 penalty shootout victory over their old rivals at the 1998 tournament in France

The home and away kits were reversed in 2002 for their group-stage match in Japan, with England claiming a 1-0 victory in red while Argentina wore their traditional striped kit.

Fifa's preference is for each team to wear its firstchoice colours, but if there is a potential clash it will follow steps to ensure an acceptable colour contrast is found.

Football's world governing body also tries to make sure there is a dark-kit and light-kit colour contrast, in the interests of fans with colour vision deficiency (colour blindness).

England booked their place in the semi-finals with a 2-1 extra-time victory against Norway on Saturday, while Argentina claimed a dramatic 3-1 win over 10-man Switzerland, also in extra time, on Sunday. (BBC Sport)

The full list of World Cup winners by year is as follows:

• 1930 - Uruguay

• 1934 - Italy

• 1938 - Italy

• 1950 - Uruguay

• 1954 - West Germany

• 1958 - Brazil

• 2022 - Argentina

Which nations and players have the most World Cup goals?

Former Germany striker Klose had held the record for most World Cup goals prior to the 2026 tournament, but now finds himself third.

Former Brazil forward Ronaldo ranks in fourth place with 15 goals from 19 games. In joint-fifth place is Gerd Muller, whose international career was spent representing West Germany. He netted 14 World Cup goals in just 13 appearances. At this World Cup, England captain Harry Kane has moved level with Muller for World Cup goals.

Former France striker Just Fontaine is in seventh place and Brazil's three-time World Cup ` Joint-ninth on the list are Sandor Kocsis (Hungary), Jurgen Klinsmann (West Germany/Germany) and Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) with 11 goals each.

England outplayed by India in crushing Test defeat

ENGLAND suffered a 270run thrashing in the one-off women's Test at Lord's as India sealed the emphatic victory before lunch on the final day.

Though defeat was inevitable as England started the day 130-6 and needing another 328 for victory, any hopes of prolonged resistance were ended when overnight batter Amy Jones was caught at mid-wicket for 54.

England v India, one-off Test, Lord's (Scores: India 285 (Mandhana 83; Ecclestone 3-68) & 341-7 dec (Bhatia 113; Ecclestone 5-118)

England 170 (Jones 52; Gaud 5-37) & 186 (Jones 54; Rana 4-42)

India won by 270 runs)

With the pitch turning, India had fielders crowded around the bat as their spinners then mopped up the tail with England skittled for 186.

It is England's second-heaviest defeat in terms of runs in Test cricket after their 347-run loss against the same opposition away from home in 2023.

Both Issy Wong and Lauren Bell were bowled by Deepti Sharma to leave England on the brink at nine down, but Sophie Ecclestone held firm for her first international half-century.

Ecclestone reached the milestone from 61 balls to follow her five-wicket haul on day three, before she was bowled by a beauty from Sneh Rana for 50 to spark jubilant India celebrations.

Off-spinner Rana was the pick of India's bowlers with 4-42.

England were outclassed, offering little conviction or

discipline with the bat - across both innings they averaged just four when the ball was bowled on the stumps - and with the ball failed to adapt to the conditions and the Lord's slope. It was a disappointing ending to the fine careers of former captain Heather Knight and batter Tammy Beaumont, having fallen cheaply in England's innings the previous day.

England's attention now turns to The Hundred, which starts on 21 July, before they play Ireland in a white-ball series in September where their transition begins without Knight and Beaumont.

Banks DIH continues support of Guyana Cup horse race

BEVERAGE giants, Banks DIH, are, once again, the main beverage sponsor for the Guyana Cup horse racing. The 18th running of the Guyana Cup is set for August 23 at Rising Sun Turf Club, and Banks Beer will be celebrating their platinum anniversary.

According to Sonya Forrester, Communication executive at Banks DIH, the company will continue to support this event since it drives tourism, and brings the community together.

“We at Banks DIH are proud to yet again be a sponsor for the Guyana Cup. It’s an honour for us to support these events because it brings together talent, completion, superior horses and passionate fans.”

“Our tagline is committed to excellence which is embodied in the sport of horse racing. This event is an opportunity for us to engage in the community,” she said.

Forrester added: “we have always been a great supporter of the Guyana Cup and we look forward to this partnership and other partnerships.”

More than G$65 million in cash and prizes will be up for grabs on Sunday August 23 at the 18th annual Guyana Cup horse race at Rising Sun Turf Club.

Organised by the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred racing committee, this Guyana Cup is expected to attract all the

top horses and jockeys from across the region.

A total of 14 races will be running at this year’s Guyana Cup.

The feature race which will be the Banks Guyana Cup will fetch a purse of G$22 million.

Additionally, one lucky patron will drive away with a brand new Sinotruk pick-up on Guyana Cup race day.

The races for Guyana Cup 2026 are:

Banks Guyana Cup

(One Mile)- Total purse

G$22,500,000

Peter Lewis Guyana Cup

Sprint (5 ½ Furlong)- Total purse G$7,500,000

Forrester’s Imported Derby (One Mile)- Total purse

G$7,500,000

Mohamed’s Excavating Sir Balaji Derby (One Mile)- Total purse

G$5,625,000

J’s Imported Juvenile Fillies

Sprint (5 ½ Furlong)- Total purse G$3,750,000

BM. Soat Locally Bred Dash

(5 ½ Furlong)- Total purse

G$2,812,500

P. Jagdeo E-Class (One Mile)- Total purse

G$2,812,500

Jagmohan F-Class

(One Mile)- Total purse

G$1,875,000

ARONCO H-Class

(One Mile)- Total purse

G$1,875,000

C.I. H3 N.W.3 (One Mile)Total purse G$1,875,000

Avinash Local Maidens (One Mile)- Total purse

G$2,812,500

Big G’s J-Class (One Mile)Total purse G$1,875,000

Garen Pro K-Class (One Mile)- Total purse

G$1,875,000

Sawh L Class Sprint

(One Mile)- Total purse

G$1,875,000

GPF, corporate sponsors back Top Level Cricket Academy for Sir Garfield Sobers U-19 tournament

THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) has joined forces with a cohort of corporate and institutional partners to bankroll Top Level Cricket Academy’s campaign at the prestigious Sir Garfield Sobers Under-19 Tournament in Barbados.

The tournament, which commenced Monday, stands as a premier developmental pathway, offering the region's brightest young prospects crucial international exposure against elite club opposition.

Guyana's charge will be led by skipper Mickel Sharma, with Kishawn Silas named as vice-captain and primary wicketkeeper.

The touring squad reflects a robust cross-section of the country's emerging talent, drawing heavily from grassroots powerhouses including the GPF Academy, Tucber Park, Demerara Cricket Club, Georgetown Cricket Club,

Rose Hall, Malteenoes, and Everest.

Joining Sharma and Silas in the 15-man squad are Jasane Craig, Joshua Bollers, Trilok Nanan, Shahid Ramzan, Nicholas Lovell, Julian Craig, Amar Persaud, Kaylon Callender, Richard Ramdeholl, Shane Prince, Joshua Thomas, Saif Samaroo, and Balashankar Narine.

The support staff comprises coaches Randy Davis and Jason Craig, as well as manager Lon Seecharran.

Deputy Commissioner ‘Administration’ Ravindradat Budhram, who also chairs the GPF Cricket Committee, emphasised the institution’s focus on fostering discipline and leadership through sports, urging the squad to uphold high standards of sportsmanship on the regional stage.

The academy's trip has been bolstered by a collab-

Trinchloro Bleach renews support for Lotto/Let’sBet...

zonal finalists receiving G$200,000, culminating in a handsome G$500,000 purse for the respective zonal champions before they even transition into the national bracket.

The crescendo of the tournament will see the stakes reach their absolute peak during the national playoffs. The crowned national champions will walk away with a massive G$2,000,000 first-prize purse, while the runners-up will secure G$1,000,000.

The two losing national semi-finalists will also be rewarded for their efforts, with each earning G$500,000.

Kristina Kanhai, Brand Manager for Trinchloro Bleach, expressed her excitement about the continued collaboration and the positive

impact the tournament has on local communities.

"Trinchloro is incredibly proud to wash away the competition and stand alongside the One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast for a fourth incredible season," Khani stated.

"This tournament brings unparalleled energy and unity to communities across Guyana, and with this year's game-changing prize structure, we are thrilled to support grassroots cricket as it reaches new, unprecedented heights."

Tournament Director John Ramsingh emphasised that the revamped structure is designed to reward the hard work of regional teams while elevating the overall standard of the sport.

"We wanted to ensure that

teams are fairly compensated for their talent and dedication, which is why we structured the payouts to reward success at every major milestone,"

Ramsingh noted.

"Bringing the national grand finale to the Anna Re-

gina National Stadium is a historic milestone for us, and we are deeply grateful to Trinchloro Bleach and ANSA McAL for sharing our vision to take top-tier tapeball action directly to the passionate fans in Essequibo."

(From page 27)

With the lucrative prize structure locked in, organisers have issued an urgent directive to regional teams to secure their spots immediately. Teams are cautioned against delaying registration to tinker with squad selection, as spots are expected to fill rapidly.

Registration forms can be accessed via the tournament’s official social media handles or by contacting the organisers directly on WhatsApp at +592 635-2235.

The tournament caravan officially commences with the Berbice Zone on August 8–9 across four premier venues, including the historic Port Mourant Community Centre Ground, the No. 69 Ground, and the Welfare Ground in Canje, before con-

orative network of sponsors including the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, ENet, L&L Construction, CopyFix, and E Timbers. Placed in Zone D, Top Level Cricket Academy faces a gruelling schedule, starting their campaign against Trinidad and Tobago’s Presentation College today. They will follow with successive fixtures against Barbados’ Christ Church Foundation School on July 14, St. Catherine’s Youth on July 16, USA's NY Tri-State Youth Development on July 17, and Alexandra School on July 20.

The top team from each of the four zones will progress to the semi-finals ahead of the grand final, while a comprehensive classification system guarantees playoff matches for all remaining places down to 24th.

cluding with the zonal finals at the Albion Sports Complex on August 9.

The action then moves swiftly to the East Bank/West Demerara leg on August 15–16, followed by the Essequibo Zone on August 22–23. Following a temporary hiatus for the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), the tournament resumes with the powerhouse Georgetown/ East Coast Demerara leg on September 26–27 and October 3–4.

In a historic first for the competition, the national grand finale on October 11, 2026, will be hosted at the Anna Regina National Stadium in Region Two, bringing the absolute pinnacle of Guyanese tapeball cricket directly to Essequibo.

CWI Rising Stars Under-19 Men’s 50-over Championship

Barbados continues record-breaking run in dominant win over Leewards

...Guyana suffer second defeat to Jamaica

ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Defending champions Barbados produced yet another spectacular batting performance on their way to recording their second successive win in the CWI Rising Stars Under-19 Men’s 50-over Championship here on Monday.

Led by a sensational double century by captain Gadson Bowens, Barbados posted a record-breaking total of 439 for eight on their way to a 258-run win over the Leeward Islands.

There were also victories for Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago against Guyana and the Windward Islands respectively.

At Liberta Sports Club: Barbados captain Gadson Bowens scored a memorable double century to propel his side to a mammoth 258-run victory over a hapless Leeward Islands.

Batting at the top of the order, Bowens blasted 209 off just 122 balls, while striking 22 fours and 13 sixes, as Barbados scored an unbelievable 439 for eight in their 20 overs.

It set the record for the highest total in the competition’s history, besting the 392 for nine which they scored against the Windward Islands in Saturday’s opening round.

The Leeward Islands did put up a fight initially, before collapsing to be all out for 181 in 23.5 overs.

But the day undoubtedly belonged to Bowens, whose knock is now the highest individual score in the tournament.

Together with opener

Damarko Wiggins, who scored a patient 53 off 95 balls, the two shared an opening stand of 194 in 29 overs that set the tone for what was to come.

After Wiggins was dismissed by Rondre Daniel, Bowens added 67 runs with Jordan Graham, who made 20, before he became the third wicket to fall to make the score 317 for three in the 41st over.

What followed after his dismissal was truly remarkable, as Jahidi Hinds blasted an unbeaten 53 off 19 balls with five sixes and two four, R’Jai Gittens slammed 40 from 17 balls, while Kelani Clarke scored a quickfire 31, as Barbados bludgeoned 122 runs from the last 10 overs.

Matthew Miller was the pick of the Leeward Islands’ bowlers with 4-48.

In their chase, Tanez Francis and Kunal Tilokani both scored speedy half centuries which carried them to

Ground: Jamaica got their first win of the competition courtesy of a comprehensive 10-wicket defeat of Guyana.

After electing to bat first, Guyana suffered a spectacular middle order collapse to be bowled out for 225 in 44.4 overs.

Jamaica’s opening pair of Odane Binns, who finished on 104 not out off 109 balls and Tyson Gordon Jr, who was unbeaten on 83 off 115 balls, was seldom bothered on their way to romping to 229 without loss in 37 overs.

76 for one inside six overs.

After Tilokani was dismissed for 59 off 21 balls, Francis and J’Quan Athanaze maintained the momentum during a 46-run partnership in four overs.

However, once Athanaze was dismissed by Zarrell Harding for 17, the innings went downhill with Hinds running through the middle order with his medium pace.

When Francis was dismissed for 55 off 38 balls, they had slumped to 147 for five, a position they would not recover from.

Hinds finished with 4-39, Justin Parris took 2-3 and Harding 2-60.

At Bethesda Sports

Guyana looked well on their way to posting a formidable total when Parmeshwar Ram and Shamar Apple were at the crease during an 82run partnership that elevated them to 175 for two in the 31st over.

But Jahdae Moore’s five-wicket haul totally changed the complexion of the match, as Guyana lost their last eight wickets for just 50 runs.

Medium pacer Perico Henry started the collapse by having Ram caught for the topscore of 78 from 93 balls, with spinner Geovanni Grey claiming the wicket of Romario Ramdehol for 18, to leave the score 204 for four.

Moore then went to work, dismissing Apple for an even 50 off 72 balls, while also

picking up the wickets of Dhanesh Persaud, Joshua Budram, Feaaz Baksh and Jonathan Mentore to end the innings.

He finished with figures of 5-36, while Henry took 2-51.

Binns and Gordon Jr then made light work of their target, carrying their side to victory with 13 overs to spare.

Binns struck nine fours and five sixes, while Gordon Jr hit 10 fours, while Guyana, who are yet to win a match, also contributed to their own downfall by sending down 42 extras.

At Coolidge Cricket Ground: Trinidad and Tobago also registered their second straight win via a three-wicket victory over the winless Windward Islands.

The Windward Islands produced a disappointing batting performance that saw them limited to 183 for nine in their 50 overs after choosing to bat first.

Despite losing some late wickets, T&T were always on track to secure victory, eventually ending on 184 for seven in 38.5 overs.

The Windward Islands owed their eventual total to a fighting half century from Tyler Venner, which rescued them from serious trouble at 73 for six.

Barbados, Antigua & Barbuda advance to second round

GEORGETOWN, Guyana, (CMC) – Barbados and Antigua and Barbuda topped their respective groups to advance to the second round of the FIBA AmeriCup 2029 Pre-Qualifiers here on Sunday.

Competing in the Caribbean Pre-Qualifiers, Barbados played unbeaten in Group B to finish with a 4-0 record, while Antigua & Barbuda secured top spot in Group A with a 3-1 record.

The two teams join Costa Rica, which also advanced to the FIBA AmeriCup 2029 Pre-Qualifiers second round after winning the Central American Pre-Qualifiers last March Cuba, Jamaica, Nicaragua, and Venezuela will also

compete in the next stage after being eliminated in the first round of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Americas Qualifiers.

Barbados finished the tournament with a hard-fought 96-84 victory over St Vincent and the Grenadines.

Playing at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, the game remained tightly contested through three quarters, featuring eight lead changes and multiple momentum swings, before Barbados delivered the stronger finish and put the game to bed in the final quarter.

Kyrone Alexander was the standout performer for Barbados, finishing with 32 points and 11 rebounds. His third-quarter explosion, when

he poured in 12 points in a span of 2:41- including two three-pointers and multiple trips to the line -helped Barbados seize control and consolidate their advantage.

He received support from Rasheed Maynard, who added 22 points, while Carl Thorpe chipped in 19 points.

For St Vincent and the Grenadines, Shad Thomas led the way with 16 points.

Needing a win in their final game to finish at the top of Group A, Antigua & Barbuda thrashed Turks and Caicos 86-57.

Antigua & Barbuda seized control early, build a double-digit lead in the first quarter, and steadily extended the margin in a lopsided contest.

Xavier Spencer stole the

Venner scored 62 off 96 balls, and together with the tailenders got their side up to a decent target.

He shared a 46-run stand with Kevin Joseph, who made 17 and also added 41 with number nine batter Kazado Henry, who scored an unbeaten 15, before eventually losing his wicket in the last over.

For T&T, Daniel Holder (3-28), Brendan Boodoo (218) and Daron Dhanraj (226) were the main destroyers.

Boodoo then returned to score a crucial half century, while also sharing a 57-run stand with Tariq Richards that set them on the way to victory at 101 for two in the 18th over.

Medium pacer Aravinda Bishop tried to derail the chase by snapping up three quick wickets, including that of Richards for 43, that saw T&T slip to 170 for six.

Boodoo also lost his wicket for the topscore of 67 off 81 balls during that period, to give the Windward Islands a faint hope of snatching an unlikely victory. It was not to be, however, as Christiano Ramanan scored an unbeaten 23 to carry his team over the finish line.

Bishop claimed 3-38 from his 10 overs.

of AmeriCup

High Court ruling stalls LICB presidential elections

ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – The Leeward Islands Cricket Board’s (LICB) presidential elections, which were slated to be held on Saturday, have now been put on hold after concerned persons within the Leeward Islands cricket fraternity obtained a High Court injunction.

The latest urgent court action was reportedly taken against the LICB after former West Indies international cricketer Kieran Powell was prevented from standing as a candidate in its upcoming presidential elections.

On Friday, The Antigua and Barbuda High Court granted an interim injunction temporarily suspending the LICB presidential election process, slated to be held last Saturday, following urgent concerns raised on behalf of the Anguilla Cricket Association and President of the Nevis Cricket Associ -

ation Carlisle Powell, over transparency, fairness and constitutional compliance ahead of the scheduled vote.

The Court has listed the first inter partes hearing for July 22 and has given the LICB until July 16 to file any affidavit in response.

Concerned regional board members and stakeholders within Leeward Islands cricket say the injunction was not sought to disrupt cricket administration, but to protect the integrity of the process before any final election outcome is declared.

At the centre of the dispute is the omission of Powell from the circulated nominee list, despite being understood by supporting regional cricketing associations to have secured the necessary nominations for the presidency.

Concerns have also been raised regarding the omission of vice-presidential can-

didate, Dr Timothy Hodge and alleged delays linked to election correspondence reportedly being sent to an outdated email account.

Senior Leeward Islands cricket administrators have also pointed to unresolved questions surrounding the extended tenure of incumbent president Enoch Lewis, who is understood to have held office for approximately a decade or more, notwithstanding constitutional material presently relied upon that appears to prescribe a maximum of two consecutive three-year terms.

Questions have also been raised over how and when the latest constitutional amendments were adopted, circulated and ratified.

Officials say the Court’s intervention reflects the seriousness of the issues now before it, with stakeholders maintaining that

Trinchloro Bleach renews support for Lotto/Let’sBet One Guyana T10 Tapeball

THE highly anticipated fourth season of the Lotto/ Let’sBet One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast has received a major boost as Trinchloro Bleach, distributed by ANSA McAL Distributors Limited, officially renewed its partnership for the tournament.

The tournament also announced a revolutionary, lucrative cash-prize structure and a historic national grand finale set for Region Two. In a complete departure from traditional knockout formats where early exits yield no return, the 2026 edition guarantees financial rewards

for teams deep into the zonal stages.

Teams losing at the zonal quarter-final stage will earn G$25,000, while losing zonal semi-finalists will pocket G$50,000.

The stakes escalate progressively, with the losing (Turn to page 25)

no election result should be confirmed while material questions over nominations, notice, eligibility and constitutional process remain unresolved.

By Sean Devers

LED by a 5-for from leftarm spinner Jayden Lennox, New Zealand beat the West by five wickets last night at Providence to level the five-match ODI series 1-1 in a low-scoring game which was dominated by the spinners as no batter registered a half-century.

New Zealand invited the West Indies to bat on a spin-friendly track and dismissed the hosts for a paltry 138 in 36 overs from a position of 66-0, their decision was justified.

Apart from John Camp-

bell, whose 45 lasted 41 balls and included four fours and one six, only Amir Jangoo (24) reached 20.

Lennox had 5-19 while off-spinner Michael Bracewell (2-51) and Skipper Mitchell Santner (2-21) supported Lennox.

New Zealand reached 141-5 in 32.3 overs as Tom Latham top scored with 37 from 61 balls and two fours. Pierre had 2-33 in a losing cause for the West Indies West Indies started positively as Campbell square drove Jacob Duffy for a glorious boundary, off the third ball of the match, before

NZ beat West Indies by five wickets to level ODI series 1-1

Auguste pivoted and hooked him for six in his next over

Campbell launched into Matthew Fisher and deposited him over cover for four before lofting Bracewell for a humongous six over mid-wicket.

The openers posted their 50 stand in 9.2, and after the first power play, the West Indies were 58 without loss.

Bracewell removed Auguste in the 11th over at 63-1; Auguste’s 18 lasted 27 balls and included a four and a six, and his demise brought Keacy Carty to the crease.

Santner bowled Campbell

for 45 at 66-2.

The elegant right-hander from the island of St Maarten hit Bracewell back over his head for six to the delight of another disappointing crowd in sweltering heat.

Lennox bowled Shai Hope (7) and Sherfane Rutherford in the space of 11 runs as the home team slipped to 97-4 in the 19th over.

The 100 came up in the 20th over before Carty, who made 95 on Saturday, was bowled by Santner for 18 at 105-5.

Lennox then bowled Gudakesh Motie (1) and Matthew Ford (1) in quick suc-

cession, as two wickets fell for two runs, with the West Indies slipping to 117-7.

Amir Jangoo (24) was lbw to Bracewell at 133-8 before Alzarri Joseph (1) was run out.

Vitel Lawes missed a sweep at Lennox[r1.1] and was lbw, as West Indies lost wickets in clusters and had no meaningful partnerships once Auguste departed.

When the Black Caps began their reply, Will Young and Henry Nicholls added 35 before Young, who hit five boundaries in his 28, was lbw to Joseph in the eighth over.

Mark Chapman was run

out for a duck at 51-2 after the 50 was posted in the 11th over.

Motie removed Nicholls (17) at 52-3, and the crowd, which had increased slightly after work, were on their feet and blowing horns.

Latham and Dean Foxcroft took the score to 94 with intelligent batting before left-arm spinner Khary Pierre bowled Foxcroft for a duck Bracewell (24) and Latham (37) carried the Kiwis home with an unfinished 46-strand.

The final game in Guyana is scheduled for tomorrow, from 2:30 pm.

Lowe, Munroe and Arjoon win gold at Junior Caribbean Squash Championships

GUYANA’S junior squash stars put on a masterclass at the 2026 Junior Caribbean Squash Championships (CASA) in the British Virgin Islands, dominating the courts to secure a brilliant haul of three gold, three silver, and one bronze medal as the individual events wrapped up on Sunday.

The sensational performance firmly cements the country's status as the powerhouse of regional junior squash, highlighted by intense all-Guyanese showdowns and gritty title defences.

The day's most gripping drama unfolded in the Girls U-17 division, where Kaylee Lowe successfully retained her regional crown in a breathtaking five-game final against her compatriot Emily Fung-a-Fat. After dropping the opening game, Lowe dug

deep to edge a tense second frame.

The two local stars traded blows before Lowe relied on her championship pedigree to seal the deciding fifth game, finishing 9-11, 13-11, 11-7, 9-11, 8-11. An emotional Lowe later reflected on the sacrifice required to become a two-time CASA champion, noting that defending the

title meant even more than winning it the first time. Fung-a-Fat walked away with a highly commendable and hard-fought silver.

Guyana’s golden run continued in the Girls U-13 division, which treated fans to another thrilling all-domestic final. Close friends became fierce rivals on the court as Tehani Munroe

squared off against Zoey McDonald.

Neither player held back, but Munroe found an extra gear under pressure, overcoming an early deficit to secure the Caribbean title with a hard-fought 11-6, 8-11, 10-12, 9-11 victory, while McDonald took home the silver.

Meanwhile, Alexis Ar -

joon completed Guyana’s golden hat-trick by delivering a clinical display throughout the tournament to comfortably claim the Girls U-11 Championship.

It was a historic, bittersweet day for the Bulkan family in the Boys U-15 category, as both brothers earned spots on the podium.

Egan Bulkan fought valiantly in his gold-medal match against the home crowd favourite, Jakob of the British Virgin Islands, ultimately falling just short in a tight four-game battle to secure the silver medal.

His brother, Ethan Bulkan, ensured he wouldn't leave empty-handed by bouncing back in style for the third-place playoff.

Ethan produced a dominant straight-games sweep over Barbados’ Ethan Cyrus, winning 11-9, 11-2, 11-2 to claim the bronze.

Other Guyanese players found the going tough against top-tier regional opposition in their respective bronze medal matches. In the Boys U-13 bracket, Zion Hickerson fought hard but fell in straight games to Barbados’ Finn Graham. In the U-19 divisions, Shiloh Asregado put up a spirited fight against second seed Jaydon Williams before exiting in four games, while Malia Maikoo competed fiercely in the Girls U-19 lineup but was bested in straight games by Elle Wilson.

With seven individual medals already in the bag, the Guyanese contingent now turns its focus toward carrying this incredible momentum into the upcoming Doubles and Team events.