Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 16-05-2026

Ali says

Guyana Festival returns with call for unity, national pride

—President Ali says culture is central to nation-building as country prepares to mark 60 years of independence

—Tourism Minister says festival showcases the best of Guyana to the world

By Shamar Meusa

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali on Friday evening called on Guyanese to embrace unity and cultural diversity as Guyana steps into the celebration of its 60th Independence Anniversary, declaring that culture must remain at the heart of national development.

The Head of State made the call while delivering the feature address at the opening ceremony of the Guyana Festival 2026 at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

The festival, which returned after a 12-year absence, is being held under the theme, “Sound, Soul and Taste,” and forms part of activities to commemorate Guyana’s 60th Independence Anniversary.

President Ali said the event represents more than entertainment, describing it as an important expression of national identity, togetherness and pride.

“The 60th anniversary of Guyana’s independence is therefore a time for recommitment, a recommitment to unity, a recommitment to inclusion, a recommitment to the idea of One Guyana, not as a slogan, but as a lived reality,” the President said.

Reflecting on Guyana’s journey since independence in 1966, President Ali acknowledged that the coun-

President

Dr Irfaan Ali called on Guyanese to embrace unity and cultural diversity as the country steps into celebrating its 60th independence anniversary, as he noted that culture must remain at the heart of national development. [Delano Williams photos]

try’s path had not been perfect, but said the nation must now focus on building stronger unity and inclusion.

He said Guyana’s multicultural heritage must be used as a bridge to strengthen national unity, rather than deepen divisions.

“Culture is not a side attraction of nation-building, it is a part of the main story of nation-building,” he said.

He added, “Culture is a central pillar of nation-building because it gives a society its shared identity, values and

sense of belonging.”

President Ali noted that Guyana’s music, cuisine, traditions and festivals reflect a shared national identity shaped by African, Indian, Indigenous, European, Chinese and Portuguese influences.

He said cultural expression creates emotional and psychological bonds among citizens and allows people from different backgrounds to recognise themselves in one another.

“No nation can progress when its people are divid -

ed against themselves,” the President said.

He also issued a direct appeal to young people, urging them not to inherit the prejudices and political divisions of previous generations.

“You are not responsible for the divisions of the past, but you hold a responsibility for the unity of the future… Become the generation that finally makes One Guyana real at home in our schools, workplaces, communities and in the relations we build with persons of other ethnicities. I place my trust in you, young Guyana, our young people. You are the generation that can turn diversity into destiny,” Ali declared.

The President further noted that national unity is closely linked to inclusive development, warning that economic progress without social cohesion could create deeper divisions if not prop-

erly managed.

Against this backdrop, he said his administration remains committed to ensuring that development benefits are fairly distributed across the country.

“When development is inclusive, unity becomes natural. When development is exclusive, division becomes inevitable. If politics has been a source of division, then let us use this 60th anniversary to ensure that culture unites us,” President Ali said.

Meanwhile, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues, described the return of the Guyana Festival as a historic moment and a major statement about Guyana’s growing cultural and tourism ambitions.

“Tonight, we open more than a festival. We come together for a national celebration of identity, heritage,

achievement and possibilities,” she said.

Rodrigues said the festival was originally envisioned as a strategic initiative to showcase the best of Guyana while positioning the country as a leading tourism and cultural destination in the region.

“Events like [sic] the Guyana Festival are central to that strategy. Because tourism today is experience-driven, visitors are seeking destinations with authenticity and stories. They want immersive experiences. They want connection and Guyana has something unique to offer the world,” the minister said.

She added that events such as the Guyana Festival play an important role in supporting entrepreneurs, artisans, performers and small businesses, while preserving the country’s cultural identity amid rapid development.

“This is more than a festival. This is a national statement, a declaration that Guyana is proud of its people, its culture and its identity,” Rodrigues said.

Over the next three days, the Guyana Festival will feature cultural villages, culinary exhibitions, performances, concerts, storytelling, craft displays and competitions aimed at showcasing Guyana’s traditions, history and local creative talent.

ExxonMobil Guyana returns as sponsor for ECONOME Business Conference

EXXONMOBIL Guyana has officially returned as a sponsor of the fifth anniversary edition of the ECONOME Business Conference 2026, reaffirming its commitment to entrepreneurship, youth empowerment, innovation and community development in Guyana.

Now entering its fifth year, ECONOME has evolved from a small-business podcast into one of Guyana’s most dynamic platforms for entrepreneurs, professionals, creatives and SMEs. Under the 2026 theme, “Swim Differently,” the conference challenges individuals and businesses to move beyond conventional thinking, reject overcrowded spaces, and create new opportunities through inno-

vation, courage and strategic originality.

According to a release from the company, this marks the second consecutive year of collaboration between ExxonMobil Guyana and ECONOME, rooted in shared values of empowerment, capacity building, and national development.

Scheduled for June 20–21, 2026 at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, ECONOME V is expected to attract hundreds of entrepreneurs, students, industry leaders, policymakers and emerging leaders for an immersive two-day experience blending business, culture, networking and inspiration.

Founder of ECONOME, Matthew Gaul, described the continued relationship as

evidence of the conference’s growing national impact.

“To have ExxonMobil Guyana return for a second year is both humbling and powerful. It signals belief, not just in an event, but in a movement centred on expanding opportunity, building entrepreneurial confidence, and helping Guyanese think beyond traditional limitations. ECONOME was created to challenge people to think differently about business, innovation and their own potential. This collaboration strengthens our ability to deepen that mission across Guyana.”

As part of this year’s expanded impact agenda, ECONOME, with support from ExxonMobil Guyana, will also launch a special community-engagement initiative

in St Cuthbert’s Mission ahead of the conference. The outreach programme will include a Business & Entrepreneurship Forum focused on opportunity creation, financial literacy, digital transformation and mental wellness, a Medical Outreach Initiative aimed at supporting community health and wellness and a

Sports & Youth Engagement Programme designed to foster team work, confidence and positive youth development.

The initiative reflects ECONOME’s broader philosophy that entrepreneurship and development must extend beyond conference rooms and directly impact communities across Guyana.

Over the past four years, ECONOME has hosted major business conversations, connected SMEs to opportunities, created mentorship experiences for young entrepreneurs and students, and built a growing ecosystem around innovation, ambition and Caribbean excellence.

‘Reflections Guyana at 60’ to headline Guyana Festival celebrations

AS Guyana gears up to celebrate its 60th Independence Anniversary, theatre, poetry and comedy will take centre stage at the Guyana National Stadium with the staging of “Re -

flections: Guyana at 60,” a major cultural production set for the Guyana Festival from May 15 to 17. The production, presented by Gems Theatre Productions in collaboration with

the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, is expected to deliver an educational and historic showcase celebrating Guyana’s journey over the past six decades. The play was written by Gem Madhoo-Nascimento and is directed by Russell Lancaster.

According to the festival schedule, the opening night on Friday, May 15, will feature the drama production “Reflections, Guyana at 60” at 20:00hrs or 8:00 PM, fol-

lowed by a comedy segment at 21:00hrs or 9:00 PM, with performances from Lyndon ‘Jumbie’ Jones, Michael Ignatius and Chris Gopaul.

The weekend line-up on Saturday, May 16, and Sunday, May 17, will continue with a packed programme of poetry, comedy and drama performances. Featured poets include Mark Luke-Edwards, Latiefa Agard and Nickose Layne.

Madhoo-Nascimento had said the event is designed to

reflect Guyana’s rich cultural identity through storytelling, humour and spoken word, while highlighting the nation’s growth, resilience and diversity over the past 60 years.

She explained that while history can sometimes seem lengthy or difficult for younger audiences, theatre can make important national events engaging and memorable.

“We have to capture it and try and put some

humour in it and joviality, so that the audience will be entertained at the same time in a very nice and educated manner,” she told the DPI during an interview.

The Guyana Festival, being held under the theme, “Sound, Soul and Taste,” forms part of the wider independence anniversary celebrations and is expected to attract thousands of patrons over the three-day period.

Guyana, Suriname Presidents commit to fast-tracking key bilateral issues within three months

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali and President of Suriname, Jennifer Geerlings-Simons, on Friday held high-level virtual talks focused on deepening economic co-operation and addressing shared regional challenges, including flooding caused by heavy rainfall.

According to a statement from the Office of the President of Guyana, the two Heads of State discussed several key bilateral matters, including the proposed Corentyne River Bridge, fisheries, trade facilitation, agriculture and energy co-operation.

Both leaders agreed to work within a three-month framework to advance and finalise several of the outstanding matters, with the aim of strengthening trade ties and further integrating the two neighbouring economies.

President Ali, in a statement posted on his official Facebook page, said he welcomed the “shared commitment” between the two countries to deepen co-operation and friendship.

“I was delighted to speak to my friend and our neighbour, President Jennifer

President, Dr Irfaan Ali, and President of Suriname, Jennifer Geerlings-Simons, on Friday held high-level virtual talks [Office of the President photos]

Geerlings-Simons on various opportunities and challenges ahead of us. I was pleased at our shared commitment in deepening our partnership and friendship to ensure further economic co-operation, expansion of trade, and integration of our economies,”

President Ali said.

President Geerlings-Simons also described the discussions as “constructive and friendly,” noting that climate change and increased flooding in both countries formed a major part of the engagement.

She said the two countries underscored the need for stronger collaboration to

address environmental and infrastructural challenges.

“It has been agreed that the Ministers of Public Works of both countries will co-operate on the water problem and infrastructural measures at the technical level,” the Surinamese President stated.

The Surinamese Head of State added that discussions also focused on expanding socio-economic co-operation, particularly in oil and gas, fisheries and river-passage issues involving the Corantijn River.

The leaders further agreed to reconvene shortly under the Suriname-Guyana Strategic Dialogue and

President Ali was joined by Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation, Hugh Todd

Co-operation Platform, while also involving the private sector in future collaboration efforts.

The engagement comes as both Guyana and Suriname continue to strengthen ties amid growing economic transformation driven by the energy sector and regional infrastructural development.

Last September, the Heads of State met in Nickerie, Suriname, and reaffirmed the strong bonds of friendship and co-operation that exist between Suriname and Guyana, rooted in their shared values and aspirations, cultural ties, and geographic proximity. They expressed

their mutual commitment to further deepen the bilateral partnership to promote peace, security, and prosperity for the peoples of both countries.

“[We] recognise that this bilateral initiative is also an integral part of the interconnectivity within the Amazon Region,” Dr Ali had stated, noting the strategic importance of enhanced links between Guyana and Suriname.

The Guyana-Suriname bridge, once completed, is expected to be a key link in fostering stronger ties among South American and Caribbean nations, boosting trade flows and unlocking untapped tourism opportu -

nities. The China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) is set to construct the US$236 million project bridge over the Corentyne River. Designed to last 100 years, the bridge, which will span approximately 3.1 kilometres, is set to connect Moleson Creek in Guyana to South Drain in Suriname, with a landing point on Long Island in the Corentyne River. Guyana has earmarked GY$5 billion (US$23.9 million) for the project in its 2025 budget.

Plans are underway to transform Long Island into a vibrant commercial hub and tourist hotspot.

Gov’t hosts family support, wellness symposium to promote stronger family values

THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security hosted a family support and wellness symposium on Friday at the Umana Yana to highlight challenges within family structures, while promoting stronger support systems and values.

The event brought together parents, students and teachers from various schools and communities countrywide in commemoration of International Day of Families being observed under the theme, “Families, Inequalities, and Child-Wellbeing.”

Speaking at the sympo-

sium, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, said families everywhere face difficulties that are often hidden from public view.

“Every family has its fair share of challenges. We live in a world where, behind closed doors, as was very aptly depicted, things are not sometimes what they appear to be outside,” she stated.

The minister added that many of the realities faced within homes continue to affect children across society.

Thus, she stressed the importance of building loving and stable homes to strengthen society as a

whole.

“If we create the kinds of families that have loving homes, stable halls, we will have much less to do with repairing and rebuilding, but we can continue to strengthen bonds and to build a country where the

A scene from the symposium on Friday

fabric is strong because our families are strong,” Minister Persaud said.

The symposium also highlighted services available through the ministry’s Family Enhancement Services at the Palms on Brickdam.

As part of the programme, the ministry created themed rooms designed to mirror a modern family home,

offering participants an interactive experience focused on family life, relationships and wellness. [DPI]

Investing in children

THE expansion of Guyana’s Day and Night Care and Early Childhood Development initiative will be more than a new government programme, with full night-care services.

It’s an admission that the nation’s rapidly changing economy needs a modern social support system that can respond to the realities of working families.

With the pace of change in Guyana’s economy unprecedented, driven primarily by the oil and gas sector but also including construction, hospitality, healthcare, manufacturing and security services, thousands of employees are working on rotating, evening and overnight shifts.

But for many years, childcare services in Guyana were largely restricted to traditional daytime hours, requiring parents, especially mothers, to make difficult choices between work and caring for children.

As a result, the government’s move to operationalise night-care services at the Anna Catherina Early Childhood Development Centre in Region Three addresses a long-standing gap in the social infrastructure.

Crucially, this isn’t an initiative to merely supervise children while parents work. It represents a holistic view of early childhood development and the role of quality childcare in affecting educational, emotional and social outcomes later in life.

The centres are designed to offer structured developmental support in safe, nurturing settings managed by trained

caregivers.

Globally, studies have repeatedly shown that investment in early childhood development provides some of the highest social and economic returns of any public policy intervention.

International organisations such as the World Bank and UNICEF have long argued that quality early-childhood programmes improve school readiness, reduce future social inequality, and increase women’s participation in the workforce.

In particular in developing economies, access to childcare can be a decisive factor for women to stay in the labour market.

That reality is especially important in Guyana today.

For decades, many women, particularly single mothers and low-income workers, have struggled to find stable employment because affordable and flexible childcare has been out of reach.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali has directly linked the initiative to poverty reduction and economic empowerment, saying parents should not have to choose between career opportunities and childcare challenges.

The problem is exacerbated by the fact that Guyana’s economy is increasingly functioning on a 24-hour cycle.

Hospitals, hotels, call centres, ports, security firms, factories, offshore-support industries all depend on shift workers.

Without dependable childcare outside of traditional business hours, many workers, especially women, risk being locked

out of some of the fastest growing sectors of the economy.

The Anna Catherina facility was commissioned in August 2025 at a cost of some $93.8 million, and was the first of its kind in Guyana, and among the first such State-supported models in the Caribbean region.

Since then, additional centres have been opened, including a major facility at Diamond/Grove, with more planned for Regions Two, Five, Six and Ten.

Equally important is the government’s bigger gamble on the early-childhood field. Spending on childcare, caregiver training, early childhood development centres and support for home-based childcare providers continue to receive support through budget allocations.

It is reported that thousands of people have been trained in childcare services, and that grants have also been given to assist the expansion of private and community-based facilities.

But the success of the programme will depend not just on expansion but on standards being maintained.

The provision of quality childcare relies on sustained investment in trained staff, safeguarding mechanisms, nutrition, access to healthcare, sanitation, learning materials and adequate monitoring systems.

Night-care services especially need high operational standards, since children staying overnight need extra emotional support, security, and medical supervision.

There is also the question of accessibility. The State’s ambition to have centres across the country is commendable.

Policy makers also have to make sure that the growth of public childcare is not at the expense of existing private day-care providers.

The best long-term outcomes will likely come from a balanced approach that incentivises public-private partnerships and strengthens the broader childcare ecosystem.

But the initiative marks an important shift in public policy thinking. Childcare is no longer seen as a family responsibility, but increasingly as a key component of national development, labour-force participation and social protection.

In many ways, Guyana is trying to build the kind of social infrastructure that fast-growing economies eventually realise they cannot do without.

Roads and bridges and hotels can help spur economic growth, but sustainable development requires systems that support families, protect children, and enable parents to fully participate in the economy. The development of night-care services, therefore, is not simply a welfare measure. It is an investment in productivity, in gender equity, and in the future human capital of the country.

When properly managed, this could become one of the more transformative, and quietly impactful, social initiatives of Guyana’s modern development era.

Families need stronger support systems to tackle inequality — GPC

THE Guyana Peace Council (GPC) on Friday joined the international community in observing the United Nations International Day of Families 2026, calling for stronger family-oriented policies to reduce inequality and improve child well-being.

Observed under the theme, “Families, Inequalities and Child Well-being”, the organisation said the occasion highlights the growing social and economic challenges affecting fami -

lies worldwide, and the impact these challenges have on children’s futures.

In a statement, the Council noted that many families continue to face income insecurity, limited caregiving support, and unequal access to essential services, factors which increase the risk of poverty and negatively affect children’s health, education, and overall development.

The Council said widening inequalities linked to gender, race, disability

and migration status continue to create barriers for vulnerable families and children.

“Families are central to social and economic progress, yet many face income insecurity, limited caregiving support, and unequal access to essential services,” the statement said.

The organisation added that this year’s observance also underscores the importance of integrated social protection systems, including child benefits, parental leave,

affordable childcare, and early childhood education, to strengthen family resilience and promote equal opportunities for children.

According to the Council, the international observance will also encourage dialogue among governments, United Nations agencies and civil society groups on practical policy solutions aimed at reducing inequality in keeping with the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.

Old Europe, Russia, new China and Thucydides’ trap

CANADIAN Prime Minister, Mike Carney, was the first non-European head of government to attend the regular meeting of the European Political Community which was held in the first week in May this year. Here are the words of Mr. Carney: “We don’t think that we’re destined to submit to a more transactional, insular and brutal world, and gatherings such as these point to a better way forward… It is my strong personal view that the international order will be rebuilt, but it will be rebuilt out of Europe… the world is undergoing a rupture across several dimensions – integration is being used as a weapon by some and the rules are not constraining the hegemons.”

I admit I cannot make sense of this reflection of changing international relations. I will attempt to put my understanding of Europe in a changing world which differs from Mr. Carney’s. First, Europe seems to be heading in the direction of a concretised racial vision of the world rather than being an agent for saving humanity in a fast-moving destructive world.

Europe invited Israel decades ago to be part of Europe for the FIFA Football World Cup. That has no logic. Israel is in the Middle East. So, race has to be a factor. But even race makes the European decision more esoteric. The Lebanese nationality has more Caucasian blood in it than the Israeli people. Europe invites Israel each year as a participant in the Eurovision Song Contest. Again, why Israel and not Lebanon? Australia is now part of the Eurovision competition. This is not only racial but decadent; Australia is nowhere near to Europe.

Mr. Carney points to the global rules are not constraining hegemons? Since Carney was addressing European leaders, he could not have meant Europe as a hegemonic power? But why is Europe not a hegemon? In fact,

it is. Let’s quote perhaps the most accomplished Guyanese international economist, Dr Maurice Odle, who worked at sensitive levels in CARICOM and the UN: “The West uses denial of access to loans in the international banking system the IFIs (International Financial Institutions) and when this does not work, it resorts to denial of access to Swift international clearance and settlement system for financial transactions.

The denial of Venezuela’s Maduro government of access to its considerable ($1billion) gold reserve in the Bank of England and the denial of Russia’s use of its 650-billion-dollar reserves in the Western banking system, are glaring examples.”

Odle’s book is his autobiography, and it contradicts anyone who thinks that Europe is not a hegemon. Let’s look at the word “brutal,” that Mr. Carney feels that the global society does not that have to submit to. But the world has submitted to a brutal international order and Europe is part of the globe that turns a blind eye to this violently harsh world we live in.

One of the most sadistic forms of genocide in human history has occurred two years ago in Gaza committed by Israel. Europe supports Israel, has not accepted that genocide has occurred despite affirmative pronouncements by the UN and the International Criminal Court, and refuses to stop military assistance to Israel. Let’s quote a section of Mr. Carney’s speech once again: “It is my strong personal view that the international order will be rebuilt, but it will be rebuilt out of Europe.”

If there is a new international order it has to come from Global South. The last place we should expect it to be from is old Europe. Europe is old and accustomed to war. All the signs are pointing to Europe’s temptation to violently confront Russia. For all its experience in being around for thousands of years,

Europe has not even attempted a cease-fire proposal that is plausible.

In fact, Europe has submitted cease fire blueprints but all favours Ukraine without even a modicum of recognition of Russia’s security interest. In fact, there is a theory going around that in the first year of the war, Ukraine agreed to a ceasefire but the then PM of the UK, Boris Johnson, twisted President Zelensky’s arms and got him to back down.

Europe played no role in the current cease fire in Gaza. So where is Europe’s position on this brutal world that we are currently living

in? Hegemonic powers go to war to preserve their Leviathan status in the international system. Old Europe is not different that is why President Xi of China educated President Trump this week on what the Thucydides’ trap is. Europe’s violent, geopolitical obsession with Russia is part of the Thucydides trap.

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.

ExxonMobil reaffirms commitment to sustainable development, STEM advancement in Guyana

PRESIDENT of ExxonMobil Guyana Limited, Alistair Routledge, has reaffirmed the company’s commitment, alongside co-venturers Hess Corporation and CNOOC Guyana, to supporting sustainable initiatives and creating lasting developmental impact across Guyana.

Speaking on Friday during remarks at Tuschen Secondary School in Region Three, Routledge said ExxonMobil Guyana has continued to build partnerships focused on delivering meaningful and

sustainable change, including collaborations with Recover Guyana and the Ministry of Education through initiatives such as Project FLOW.

According to Routledge, the company has been working closely with the Ministry of Education to support the advancement of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education nationwide.

This includes preparations for teacher training programmes aimed at equipping educators with improved skills

ExxonMobil Guyana Limited’s President, Alistair Routledge (Sachin Persaud photo)

and tools to make STEM education more engaging and practical within classrooms.

Routledge highlighted that in February, ExxonMobil Guyana launched its Guyana STEM initiative, representing a $20 billion commitment toward strengthening STEM education across the country.

The initiative, he explained, is designed to support students from the primary school level through to tertiary education.

“So we’re super excited to advance that project in parallel

with the Greater Guyana Initiative to bring enhancements to the education system for science, technology, engineering and math, to establish a STEM centre on the campus of the University of Guyana that can act as a focal point for the development of the programme, ongoing education and the furtherance of STEM education across the country,”

Routledge said.

He noted that ExxonMobil has already begun distributing STEM kits to schools across Guyana as part of the

initiative.

Routledge said the company remains committed to working with partners to support programmes that promote sustainability, education and long-term national development.

The remarks were delivered during the commissioning of the FLOW water purification system at Tuschen Secondary School, part of the national initiative aimed at improving access to clean drinking water while reducing plastic waste in schools.

Mother appeals for urgent help for

10-month-old son battling rare brain disease

—Family seeking US$16,000 for overseas testing, treatment as infant’s condition worsens

A MOTHER is appealing to the public for urgent financial assistance to help save her 10-month-old son, Spencer Radix, who has been diagnosed with a rare brain disease that is progressively destroying his brain cells.

During an emotional interview with the media, Spencer’s mother, 40-yearold Imarah Radix, spoke about the devastating reality her family is facing as doctors continue to search for answers.

According to Radix, medical examinations revealed severe damage to the left frontal lobe of the infant’s

brain.

“Basically, there’s a part in the left side of his frontal lobe. There’s no brain there anymore. It’s just not there. There’s edema, which is swelling and there’s water in there. They described his brain on the MRI as being that of what an alcoholic brain looks like or a 90-yearold with dementia. He’s only 10 months old,” she said. Radix described the situation as heartbreaking, explaining that her son may never walk, talk, or even recognise her in the future.

She disclosed that a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to raise funds for

specialised testing and medical care overseas, as doctors work to determine the exact cause of the illness.

According to Radix, several of the required blood tests cannot be properly conducted in Guyana, because the samples need to be immediately processed or transported under strict conditions.

“For Spencer the GoFundMe is critical. We need 16,000 US dollars for the initial care to try to diagnose him better to know whether it is the acquired brain disease, which could be environmental; it could be from anything environmental or it could be

the inherited form from my mitochondrial DNA that has passed on to him, in which he stands no chance at life,” she revealed.

Radix said the fundraising campaign has already received overwhelming support from friends, relatives and members of the public, with donations nearing US$11,000.

She noted that many persons have also reached out directly by visiting her home and workplace or calling to ask how they can help.

The family is hoping to travel with Spencer next week to HOMI Pediatric Hospital in Colombia, where additional testing is expected to be carried out.

However, Radix said

more financial support is urgently needed to cover the costs of medical care and treatment, particularly since the family does not have insurance coverage.

Persons wishing to assist can make donations or inquiries via email at Imarah radix@ gmail com or WhatsApp at 676-7326.

Youth advocates complete UNICEF-backed climate and child rights training

AFTER three days of intensive engagement, the Youth Advocacy and Climate Change Capacity Training hosted by UNICEF, in collaboration with the Rights of the Child Commission Child Rights Ambassadors GY, concluded successfully, equipping young advocates with enhanced leadership and advocacy skills.

Youth representatives from Regions One, Three, Four, Five and Nine participated in the programme, where they spent

the past three days strengthening their leadership abilities, sharing experiences and deepening their understanding of issues affecting children and young people across Guyana.

At the closing ceremony, UNICEF Guyana and Suriname Representative, Anna Azaryeva Valente and Commissioner at the Rights of the Child Commission, Sandra Hooper, congratulated the participants for successfully completing the training. Both officials commended

the young participants for the energy, ideas and passion displayed throughout the sessions.

The youth advocates now leave the programme empowered to continue raising their voices and advocating for stronger, safer and more inclusive communities across Guyana.

The Rights of the Child Commission Child Rights Ambassadors GY is a youth-led initiative dedicated to promoting and defending the rights, protection and well-being of

children through education, outreach and advocacy.

Established under the Rights of the Child Commission, the ambassadors participate in community outreach activities, national awareness campaigns and public debates aimed at amplifying youth voices and inspiring positive change.

The initiative focuses on advancing child rights in keeping with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

The ambassadors also engage in training sessions on child rights and advocacy while working across several regions to strengthen child protection systems, including recent initiatives in Region Nine.

Over the years, the Child Rights Ambassadors Youth Group has participated in several high-profile events, including the Speaker’s National Youth Debating Competition and the Speaker’s Regional Youth Debating Competition

2025.

The group continues to work alongside the Rights of the Child Commission, UNICEF Guyana and Suriname and other national stakeholders to empower young people and support the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

The Rights of the Child Commission is mandated under Article 212V of the Constitution of Guyana to defend, protect and promote the rights of children.

Court rules in favour of Citizens Bank in WIN members’ account closure case

THE High Court has ruled in favour of Citizens Bank Guyana Inc. in a legal challenge brought by three members of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) political party whose bank accounts were terminated last year, dismissing claims that the institution acted unlawfully, discriminatorily, or in breach of anti-money laundering laws.

In a ruling delivered on May 14, 2026, Justice Nigel Niles rejected the majority of claims advanced by applicants Amin Britton, Racquel King and Mark Goring, finding that private banks are legally entitled to terminate banking relationships once reasonable notice is given.

However, the court awarded each applicant $50,000 in nominal damages after concluding that the bank failed to provide adequate notice before closing the accounts.

The applicants, represented by attorney Darren Wade, had sued Citizens Bank after receiving letters on July 31, 2025, informing them that the institution had reviewed its banking relationship with them and determined that their accounts “no longer conform to the bank’s risk appetite.”

The letters instructed them to uplift their funds within five working days.

Attorney Reon Miller appeared for the bank.

The WIN members argued that the closures were unlawful, politically motivated, discriminatory, and in breach of trust and good faith. They also contended that the bank violated Section 18(4) of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Act and sought damages exceeding G$100 million, including aggravated and exemplary damages.

Citizens Bank denied wrongdoing, maintaining that banking relationships are contractual and that it retained the right to sever ties with customers who no longer fit its risk profile.

The bank argued that customers do not have to engage in suspicious transactions for an account to be terminated and contended that the applicants became high risk after becoming politically exposed persons and due to their “proximity to sanctioned Azruddin Mo-

hamed, leader of the WIN party.”

Justice Niles agreed with the bank on a number of key legal questions, affirming that a bank-customer relationship is contractual in nature and that financial institutions can terminate accounts without having to establish “good cause,” once reasonable notice is provided.

Citing legal authorities, the judge said, “A bank retains the right to terminate an indefinite banking relationship on reasonable notice, without having to justify that decision on grounds of ‘good cause,’ provided no specific constitutional right or public policy principle is violated.”

The court rejected the applicants’ attempt to invoke the AML/CFT Act, finding that the legislation does not give private citizens the legal standing to sue banks for alleged breaches of anti-money laundering obligations.

“The Act falls squarely within the public law realm,” Justice Niles ruled, stating that enforcement powers rest with bodies such as the Bank of Guyana and the Director of Public Prosecutions rather than individual customers.

The judge further rejected arguments that Citizens Bank owed the applicants duties of good faith, trust and confidence.

“The principle of good faith is generally not imputed into commercial banking contracts,” Justice Niles held, emphasising that the banker-customer relationship is one of debtor and creditor rather than trustee and beneficiary.

The court also sided with the bank on the issue of judicial review, ruling that private commercial banks are not public bodies and therefore are not subject to quasi-judicial review or public law obligations relating to procedural fairness and natural justice.

“Private commercial

banks such as the Respondent do not fall within the realm of judicial or quasi-judicial review,” the judge found.

Despite largely ruling in the bank’s favour, Justice Niles found fault with the manner in which the accounts were closed, concluding that five days’ notice was insufficient.

The judge said Citizens Bank terminated the banking relationship “with immediate effect, without the benefit of a reasonable notice period,” adding that reasonable notice is necessary to allow customers time to arrange alternative banking services.

Still, the court found no evidence of financial injury substantial enough to justify the damages sought by the applicants.

In his final orders, Justice Niles refused most of the declarations sought, ruled that the AML/CFT Act had no application to the facts of the case, and awarded each applicant $50,000 in nominal damages for breach of contract due solely to insufficient notice.

Each side was ordered to bear its own legal costs.

The account closures occurred amid the WIN party’s political activity. More than a year before the party was formed and contested the 2025 elections, its leader, Azruddin Mohamed, his father, Nazar Mohamed, and several of their businesses had been sanctioned by the United States government.

The U.S. sanctioned the men in June 2024, citing acts of public corruption and the avoidance of more than US$50 million in duty taxes on gold exports.

The rulings come amid heightened scrutiny within the local banking sector following the sanctions.

The father, 73, and son, 39, are the subject of an 11-count indictment filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida. They are jointly charged on 10 of those counts, while Azruddin, the current Leader of the Opposition, faces an additional charge relating to the importation of a 2020 Lamborghini Roadster SVJ into Guyana.

Court filings alleged that the two conspired to commit wire fraud, mail fraud, money laundering, and customs-related offences, in -

cluding conspiracy, aiding and abetting.

The allegations are linked to what investigators describe as a US$50 million gold export and tax evasion scheme. The indictment was handed down by a grand jury in October 2025.

The United States is seeking the extradition of the father and son so they can face the charges brought against them in that jurisdiction.

Following the sanctions, several local banks, including Demerara Bank, Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry, and Citizens Bank, closed the accounts of WIN candidates after conducting internal risk assessments tied to compliance exposure.

Xi, Trump have private meeting in Beijing

CHINESE President Xi

Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump had a private meeting on Friday in the Zhongnanhai leadership compound in central Beijing.

The meeting came before Trump concluded his state visit to China and a day after the two leaders held formal talks.

Upon Trump’s arrival at Zhongnanhai, Xi warmly welcomed him. The two heads of state walked and talked, occasionally stopping to admire the trees and flowers in the garden.

Noting that Trump’s visit was a historic and landmark one, Xi said the two sides had set the new vision of building a constructive China-U.S. relationship of strategic stability.

“We had reached import-

ant common understandings on maintaining stable economic and trade ties, expanding practical cooperation in various fields, and properly addressing each other’s concerns,” Xi said.

The two sides also agreed to strengthen communication and coordination on international and regional issues, according to Xi.

The visit is conducive to enhancing mutual understanding, deepening mutual trust and improving the well-being of the two peoples, Xi said.

This once again demonstrates that it is a shared aspiration of both peoples and the expectation of people across the world for China and the United States to find a right path to get along with each other and to achieve peaceful coexistence and win-win

cooperation on the basis of mutual respect, Xi added.

“While President Trump hopes to make America great again, I am dedicated to leading the Chinese people toward national rejuvenation,”

Xi said, stressing that the two countries can advance their respective development and revitalization by strengthening cooperation.

China and the United States should implement the important common understandings that have been reached, cherish the hardwon positive momentum, keep to the right direction, steer clear of disruptions, and promote the steady development of bilateral relations, Xi said.

Trump said that he is very grateful to Xi for inviting him to visit Zhongnanhai, adding that his China visit was very

successful, captured the world’s attention and was unforgettable. Trump said that the two sides had reached a series of important common understandings, signed a number of agreements, and resolved many problems, which were very beneficial to both countries and the world.

Noting that Xi is his old friend, Trump said that he has great respect for Xi and that they have established a good relationship. The U.S.-China relationship is very important and will definitely get better, he said.

Trump said that he is willing to continue to main-

tain sincere and in-depth communication with Xi, and warmly looks forward to hosting Xi in Washington, D.C.

The two sides also exchanged views on some regional hotspot issues. Cai Qi, Wang Yi and He Lifeng attended the event.

Xi, Trump reach series of new common understandings

China’s foreign ministry

CHINESE President Xi

Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump had an in-depth exchange of views on major issues concerning the two countries and the world and reached a series of new common understandings, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said Friday.

The spokesperson made the remarks on Trump’s visit to China, the first U.S. presidential visit to China in nine years and Trump’s second since November 2017.

The two presidents agreed on a new vision of building a constructive China-U.S. relationship of strategic stability to provide strategic guid -

ance for China-U.S. relations over the next three years and beyond, promote the steady, sound and sustainable development of China-U.S. relations, and bring more peace, prosperity and progress to the world, the spokesperson said.

The two presidents have reached important common understandings on handling their mutual concerns in a proper manner. They both agreed to strengthen communication and coordination on international and regional issues, the spokesperson added.

Interactions between the two presidents have enhanced mutual understanding, deepened

mutual trust, advanced practical cooperation, increased benefits for the

people of both countries, and injected much-needed stability and certainty

into the world.

Trump is on a three-day state visit to China. On Thursday, Xi held a wel -

come ceremony and a welcome banquet for Trump, and held talks and visited the Temple of Heaven with him.

Xi to pay State visit to U.S. in autumn this year

will pay a State

to

this

Wang made the announcement when briefing the press on the just-concluded Xi-Trump meeting in Beijing.

He called on the two sides to work together to make thorough preparations for the interactions and exchanges between the two heads of state, foster a favourable atmosphere and build up more outcomes.

Project FLOW expands in Region Three with commissioning of 15 school water systems

—projected to eliminate millions of plastic bottles while expanding access to clean drinking water in schools

RECOVER Guyana, in partnership with the Greater Guyana Initiative (GGI) and the Ministry of Education, has advanced Project FLOW with the commissioning and handover of 15 water purification systems across secondary schools in Region Three, significantly expanding access to clean drinking water for thousands of students and teachers.

The initiative forms part

the West Demerara Secondary School.

Approximately 9,519 persons across the region, including 8,692 students and 827 teachers, are expected to directly benefit from the initiative.

By 2030, the project is expected to benefit more than 58,000 students across 141 secondary schools, 10 technical and vocational education training (TVET) institutions and four special needs

According to Minister Parag, Project FLOW represents the power of partnership, sustainability, innovation and national development.

“Coming to school and accessing that, especially in the rural areas and the hinterland areas, is something new, but something beneficial, highly beneficial for them. So, I see this as having many benefits, not just what it is supposed to be and what we know it to be,

portunity, innovation, sustainability, public health and national progress.

According to Dr Lalltoo, FLOW demonstrates what can be achieved when civil society, the public sector and private sector work together with a shared responsibility toward sustainable development.

Reflecting on the pilot programme at the West Demerara Secondary School, he noted that the institution

of Project FLOW, the National Water Purification and Sustainability Initiative, which aims to improve access to safe drinking water in schools while promoting environmental sustainability and reducing plastic waste across Guyana.

With the latest commissioning at Tuschen Secondary School on Friday, Region Three now accounts for 16 completed FLOW sites, including the pilot location at

schools nationwide.

Delivering the feature address, Education Minister, Sonia Parag, said the project aligns closely with the government’s broader vision to improve the quality of education over the next five years.

She noted that with the commissioning of several new secondary schools by the end of 2026, Guyana is expected to achieve universal access to secondary education.

but as promoting sustainability and ensuring that our environment is clean, but also providing a very crucial service to our people in their communities,” the minister said.

She added that initiatives such as FLOW are helping to create the kind of environment in which students can thrive.

Founder of Recover Guyana and FLOW Project Lead, Dave Lalltoo, described the initiative as a symbol of op-

recorded measurable environmental impact by eliminating more than 65,000 plastic water bottles within nine months.

That success, he said, paved the way for the national expansion of FLOW across Guyana, with the 16 completed sites already representing more than 10.5 per cent of the project’s national target.

Each completed site, he explained, now provides students with reliable access to safe drinking water through-

Construction worker caught with over 2kg cannabis at Mazaruni Prison

A CONSTRUCTION worker attached to Griffons Engineering Company was arrested on Thursday night after prison officers nabbed him as he attempted to smuggle more than two kilogrammes of cannabis into the Mazaruni Prison.

out the school day.

From Patentia Secondary School to Leguan Secondary School, the initiative has already created measurable environmental benefits across Region Three.

It was revealed that the project is projected to eliminate approximately 1,903,800 plastic water bottles annually across the region. Over three years, that figure is expected to rise to an estimated 5,711,400 plastic bottles prevented from entering the

tal of 10,315 plastic bottles had already been eliminated through the use of the FLOW systems.

The estimated savings per school stand at approximately $1.82 million annually. Across the 16 schools over a three-year period, the initiative is projected to generate approximately $87.36 million in direct financial savings in Region Three alone.

“With proper management and continued support, the FLOW systems are pro-

environment.

“This projection is based on the combined direct beneficiary population each consuming the equivalent of one bottle of water per school day across an average of just 200 school days annually. Imagine if we created this for 365 days. That’s millions of plastic bottles diverted from drains, trenches, landfills, waterways, communities, and ultimately our ocean,” Dr Lalltoo said.

As of Thursday, a to -

jected to positively impact schools and communities for a minimum of 15 to 20 years,” Dr Lalltoo said.

“FLOW is not simply about water. FLOW is about human potential. It is about ensuring that no child has to choose between learning and basic dignity. It is about giving thousands of young people across Guyana the opportunity to learn healthier, dream bigger, and believe that their future matters.”

During a search, officers reportedly uncovered 2,087 grammes of cannabis concealed inside the bag.

Sinclair was immediately arrested and escort-

According to a release from the Guyana Prison Service, the discovery was made around 20:30 hrs at the prison checkpoint after Meshano Sinclair returned to the compound carrying a bag.

ed to the Bartica Police Station.

Prison authorities said he is expected to be charged and appear before the court. Director of Prisons, Nicklon Elliot, warned that any person attempting to smuggle contraband into correctional facilities will face serious consequences.

“Contraband in prison

affects safety and security for staff, prisoners and the public and persons must not participate in such activity,” the release stated.

He also commended the alertness of the prison officers whose actions led to the interception of the narcotics and the arrest of the suspect.

Youth turning to agriculture as Gov’t expands technology-driven farming initiatives — Mustapha

—says modernisation, innovation, digital tools are making agriculture more attractive to young people

YOUNG people are increasingly being drawn into Guyana’s agriculture sector as the government expands programmes aimed at making farming more technology-driven, specialised and less labour intensive, according to Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha.

Speaking recently on the Guyana Dialogue, Mustapha said the government is deliberately targeting youth involvement in agriculture as part of efforts to secure the sector’s long-term future and respond to changing workforce preferences.

According to the minister, many young people graduating from universities and technical institutions are less inclined to pursue physically demanding jobs, prompting the government to reshape agriculture through mechanisation, innovation and skills-based opportunities.

“They don’t want to get involved in labour-intensive work,” Mustapha said while explaining the shift toward modern agricultural systems.

He said the Agriculture Innovation and Entrepreneurship Programme has already seen strong youth participation, with many young people transitioning from office-based employment into agriculture.

Mustapha said, “You have now a hundred, if not thousands of young people who would have been clerks, doing work behind the desk, now are making their living from agriculture because they are specialised, they are agronomists, they have certificates and diplomas coming out from the Guyana School of Agriculture.”

The government has been using the programme to encourage youth participation in modern farming ventures such as hydroponics, poultry production, and crop cultivation, while integrating technology into agricultural operations.

Among newer initiatives is onion cultivation, which the minister said has attracted considerable interest from young participants.

Referring to a recently launched programme in Region Two, Mustapha disclosed that youths make up a significant portion of the

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha

participants.

“Out of the 35 persons who started, or who will start doing the onion cultivation, you have almost 20 who are young people,” he said.

Mustapha said emerging agricultural projects are helping to change perceptions of farming among younger generations.

He noted, “These new things that we are doing, the new initiative that we are doing, they are catching on and young people are coming into the agriculture sector.”

The minister stressed that youth participation is critical if agriculture is to remain one of Guyana’s major economic sectors.

“If you want to preserve the sector, if you want to continue to make the sector… one of the main pillars of Guyana’s economy, then we have to ensure that we secure its future,” Mustapha said.

“And for securing the future, we have to bring in young people into agriculture,” he added, describing the issue as a challenge not unique to Guyana but one affecting countries globally.

As part of efforts to modernise farming and make the sector more attractive, the government has also introduced digital tools such as the Farmers Connect app, which allows farmers to access extension services, ministry programmes and artificial intelligence-supported crop disease assistance.

“You can take a picture

of a disease on the plant, put it on the app, and get assistance,” Mustapha explained.

He further highlighted how technology is changing the face of agriculture, noting that many young farmers

are now using advanced systems to manage production.

“You have young people now controlling irrigation, controlling sunlight, using technology in agriculture,” the minister said.

Mustapha also noted that the government has introduced participation targets to ensure women and youth are included in agricultural projects, with at least 35 per cent involvement required across major ministry initiatives.

“We will continue to bring more women and young people into the sector and make the sector resilient for the future,” he declared.

GRA warns against sale of unstamped cigarettes, illicit tobacco products

–– Illegal brands seized as authority intensifies crackdown on smuggling and tax evasion

THE Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has issued a warning to importers, wholesalers and retailers over the sale and distribution of tobacco products without the required excise stamps, as authorities ramp up efforts to crack down on smuggling and illicit trade.

toms Act, Chapter 82:01.

In a press release issued on Friday, the GRA reminded businesses that all imported tobacco and alcoholic products must be affixed with an Excise Stamp in keeping with Regulation 212 of the Cus-

The authority disclosed that several illegal and “uncustomed” cigarette brands have already been seized by Customs Law Enforcement Officers due to non-compliance with the regulations. Among the brands confiscated

were Atlanta, Nashville, GT Smart, B&B, Ultra Buy, Royal Milano, Aurora, Gold Mount, Pride, Capital, Star Gold, Rio, Marshal, Marine, Landus, Pine, Elegance, Tradition and Capi Blue.

According to the GRA, only a limited number of

GRA said that several illegal and “uncustomed” cigarette brands have already been seized by Customs Law Enforcement Officers due to non-compliance with the regulations

imported cigarette brands are currently considered compliant with the country’s tax and health regulations. These include Pall Mall, Bristol, Dunhill and Englishman cigarettes.

The agency further noted that all legitimate cigarette products must carry the requisite excise stamps along with health warnings and graphic images displayed on the front and rear of packages, as mandated under the Tobacco Control Act of 2017.

“The GRA has a zero-tolerance approach against smuggling or any form of tax evasion,” the authority stated, while

urging businesses that may not be fully compliant to regularise their operations immediately. The revenue authority also reaffirmed its commitment to working with legitimate importers and the wider public to ensure compliance with the country’s tax, trade and border laws. Offenders, the release warned, could face prosecution and other penalties under the law.

Members of the public are encouraged to report suspected smuggling activities or illicit tobacco products through the GRA hotline numbers 227-6060 extensions 3201 – 10.

5,000 citrus plants to be distributed to East Bank Berbice farmers

By Bebi Shafeah Oosman

MINISTER of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, has announced that 5,000 citrus plants will be distributed to farmers along the East Bank of Berbice.

The announcement was made during a recent meeting with farmers, who indicated that more planting material was needed as land-clearing works continue in the area.

Minister Mustapha said the plants will be sourced through the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI). The citrus varieties will include lime, orange, tangerine, lemon and grapefruit.

Farmers also requested additional land-clearing works, tubing, excavation, drainage cleaning, road works, culverts and a bridge at Macaw, East Bank Berbice.

The minister immediately instructed that systems be put in place to have tubing installed in the requested areas, while several other interventions were also made.

Addressing the gathering, Minister Mustapha said agriculture remains one of the bedrocks of Guyana’s economy.

“Long after oil and gas finish, agriculture will remain,” he said, while urging farmers to modernise

their approach to production.

He noted that Guyana cannot continue to practise agriculture in the same way as previous generations if the country is to remain competitive.

“When we plant and go into production, we have to go into large-scale production. We have to plant crops that are easily marketable and things that are needed,” Mustapha said.

He added that while small-scale planting for household and village consumption remains important, Guyana’s broader objective is to become the main food producer for CARICOM.

The minister said this vision is reflected in the government’s increased investment in the sector, noting that the agriculture budget moved from $18 billion in 2020 to $113 billion in 2026.

He said the government recognises agriculture as critical to national food security and is committed to providing the resources needed to make the sector more resilient, less vulnerable and better adapted to climate change.

Minister Mustapha urged farmers to take advantage of the many programmes, resources and initiatives being made available to support agricultural development.

West Indies Championship final

THE 2026 West Indies Championship final is set. The teams have earned their spots but only one will lift the trophy.

The Guyana Harpy Eagles, who secured their place in the final by finishing top of the standings, used their four-day clash against the West Indies Academy to send a message to their prospective opponents with an inningsand-21-runs victory.

Meanwhile, Trinidad & Tobago Red Force did things the hard way with a hardfought 140-run playoff victory over Barbados Pride to claim the second spot in the final, which gets underway from Sunday, May 17 at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound.

The Guyana Harpy Eagles arrived at the Antigua Recreation Ground (ARG) for their warm-up fixture with Academy, which was granted first-class status, and made an emphatic statement to put their potential final rivals on notice as they did battle a few kilometres away at the Coolidge Cricket Ground.

The match at the ARG was defined by individual brilliance from the outset. On Day 1, West Indies Academy captain Rivaldo Clarke and allrounder Amari Goodridge combined for an unbroken 280-run seventh-wicket partnership to rescue their side from 169-6, to end on 423-6.

Clarke went on to make 180 off 228 balls and Goodridge compiled 123 off 185, as the Academy posted 485 all out. Despite their healthy first innings score, the Harpy Eagles used the ground’s famous featherbed to bat Academy out of the game. Matthew Nandu was the cornerstone of Guyana’s reply with a career-best 237 in an innings that ended 13 minutes before the ten-hour mark. He shared a colossal 255-run fifth-wicket partnership with 19-year-old debutant Jonathan Van Lange, who announced himself on the regional first-class stage with a fluent 133 inclusive of 20 fours and a single six.

Richie Looknauth crafted an assured 77 while Gudakesh Motie stroked an even 48, as the Harpy Eagles were eventually bowled out for 663 with a commanding lead of 178 runs. Zishan Motara was the pick of Academy’s bowlers with six wickets at the cost of

202 runs. With the Academy needing to bat well to stay out of trouble in their second innings, Looknauth’s off-spin proved unplayable despite ARG’s historic reputation for being favourable for batters. He ripped through Academy’s batting lineup to finish with 6-36 from 12 overs, supported by Gudakesh Motie (2-27) and Thaddeus Lovell (2-56), as Academy folded for 157 in 42 overs.

Across town at the Coolidge Cricket Ground, the contest was a tense affair from the opening day.

Red Force’s fast bowlers Anderson Phillip, Terrance Hinds and Jayden Seales dismantled the Pride’s top order, reducing them to 47-6 in their reply to T&T’s first innings total of 333, before lower-order resistance from Leniko Boucher (80), Shamar Springer (51) and Joshua Bishop (99*) dragged Barbados to 296 all out. Bishop was left stranded one run short of his third first-class century after adding 47 for the last wicket with Jomel Warrican.

Bishop then turned to the ball, snaring 6-87 alongside Roston Chase’s 3-67 as Red Force were 280 all out in their second innings. Cephas Cooper batted through for a century after being dismissed in the 90s in the first innings while Khary Pierre struck a crucial 64 to help set the Pride a target of 318 to win.

Pierre and Bryan Charles then combined to demolish the Pride’s second innings with a masterclass in spin bowling. Pierre was the chief destroyer, finishing with 5-54, while Charles chipped in with 4-62. The Pride were dismissed for 177 all out, handing the Red Force a 140run victory.

The West Indies Championship final promises to be a fascinating contest between two sides who have peaked at exactly the right moment. Guyana’s batting order, anchored by the in-form Nandu and the reliable Tagenarine Chanderpaul looks formidable, while their spin attack, led by Motie and Permaul has been reinforced by Looknauth’s recent displays.

Red Force skipper Joshua Da Silva complimented their upcoming opponents saying, “There’s a reason they’ve done so well in the red ball format over the last few years.

We know that we might be going in as the underdogs, but that’s good for us. We know the strength that we have.”

However, Trinidad & Tobago have their own set of match-winners. Pierre is a proven force with both bat and ball while their pace attack gives them an aggressive edge in the first innings of a final that could well go deep into Day 4. With four days of cricket ahead, all signs point to a fitting finale to a thrilling regional season.

Motie’s move to Tridents headlines player draft picks

• From Page 36

Full Local Squad Lists Following the Draft Antigua & Barbuda Falcons: Alzarri Joseph, Evin Lewis, Fabian Allen (RMO), Jayden Seales (RMO), Amir Jangoo (RMO), Shamar Springer, Rahkeem Cornwall, Anderson Phillip, *Karima Gore, *Anderson Mahase*, Jahmar Hamilton, *Joshua James (RET) Barbados Tridents: Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Brandon King (RMO), Kadeem Alleyne (RMO), Rivaldo Clarke (RMO), *Johann Layne (RMO), *Kofi James

08:42 hrs Twisting Physics

09:15 hrs Jolivette

09:50 hrs Golden Redemption

10:27 hrs Tabby

11:02

(RMO), Zishan Motara, Zachary Carter, Ramon Simmonds (RET), Johann Layne (RMO), Jakeem Pollard*

Guyana Amazon Warriors: Shimron Hetmyer (RMO), Romario Shepherd (RMO), Shai Hope (RMO), Shamar Joseph (RMO), Khary Pierre, Ronaldo Alimohamed, Veerasammy Permaul, Jonathan van Lange*, *Mavendra Dindyal, *Isai Thorne, Matthew Nandu, *Quentin Sampson

Jamaica Kingsmen: Rovman Powell, Andre Russell, Keemo Paul, Keacy Carty, Shaqkere Parris, Odean Smith, Vitel Lawes

(RMO), Romaine Morris, *Kirk McKenzie, *Jeavor Royal, Jediah Blades, *Kelvin Pitman

St Kitts & Nevis Patriots: Johnson Charles, Jason Holder, Kyle Mayers (RMO), Andre Fletcher (RMO), Kevin Wickham, Obed McCoy, Ashmead Nedd, Jeremiah Louis, Alick Athanaze (RMO), *Micah McKenzie, *Navin Bidaiseee (RET), *Mikyle Louis (RMO)

Saint Lucia Kings: Roston Chase (RMO), Jewel Andrew, Matthew Forde (RMO), Kamil Pooran, Darron Nedd, McKenny Clarke, Joshua Bishop, Damion Joachim, *Keon

Gaston (RMO), *Amari Goodridge, Johann Jeremiah*, *Ackeem Auguste (RET), McKenny Clarke

Trinbago Knight Riders: Sunil Narine (RMO), Nicholas Pooran (RMO), Kieron Pollard (RMO), Akeal Hosein (RMO), Justin Greaves, Dominic Drakes, Jyd Goolie, Dexter Sween, Terrance Hinds (RMO), Nathan *Edward (RET), *Joshua Da Silva, *Abdul-Raheem Toppin

ST JOHN’S, Antigua – Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced the arrival of a 16-member contingent of West Indies Women in Newport, Wales, for a high-intensity preparatory camp from May 14–23 in the build-up to the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England.

The camp forms a critical phase of the “Maroon Warriors” preparation programme ahead of an important tri-nation T20 series in Ireland featuring the hosts Ireland and Pakistan, which will provide valuable match exposure in conditions similar to those expected at the upcoming global tournament. The squad will utilise the 10-day camp to sharpen all aspects of their game through technical sessions, tactical planning, match simulations, fitness conditioning, and team-building exercises as they continue preparations for their long-awaited return to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup stage.

The West Indies Women enter this period of

preparation determined to make a strong statement and having reached the semi-finals of the 2024 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, the team believes it has grown significantly in experience, depth, and confidence over the past two years.

CWI’s Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, spoke to the value of the location of both the camp and the tri-series, as the regional side seek to the repeat the historic triumph of 10 years ago when they won the 2016 tournament.

“The opportunity to train in the United Kingdon and then also get the experience of playing competitive matches in Ireland in similar conditions immediately prior to the start of the June 5th tournament is invaluable”, said Bascombe.

The camp in Wales follows a deliberate preparation pathway designed by CWI and the team-management unit, which has already included white-ball contests against Sri Lanka and Australia earlier this year.

The upcoming tri-series in Ireland is expected to provide another valuable opportunity for the squad to fine-tune combinations and strengthen execution under pressure before the World Cup officially begins.

The West Indies Women begin the tri-nation series on May 28th against Ireland, with their final fixture being against Pakistan on June 3rd, before returning to England for the World Cup and their first encounter against New Zealand on June 13th. The final squads for the tri-nation series, as well as the World Cup, will be announced later.

West Indies Women Training Camp Participants: Aaliyah Alleyne, Eboni Brathwaite, Shemaine Campbelle, Jahzara Claxton, Deandra Dottin, Afy Fletcher, Jannillea Glasgow, Shawnisha Hector, Chinelle Henry, Zaida James, Qiana Joseph, Mandy Mangru, Hayley Matthews, Ashmini Munisar, Karishma Ramharack and Stafanie Taylor.

Guyana’s 60th Independence Anniversary Badminton Tournament...

He had Jiang moving to opposite sides of the court with well-placed backhand drives.

Jiang had his moments when he executed a great drop shot, which had Tan on the floor in a desperate attempt to retrieve the shuttlecock.

The pair engaged in a rally before Tan ended it with a well-timed smash, which Jiang had no answer for, as Tan won 21-8, 21-4.

The high-energy matches across several categories showcased the growth and development of badminton in Guyana.

The opening ceremony featured brief remarks from the Vice-President of the GBA, Ayanna Watson, who highlighted the significance of hosting the tournament as part of the nation’s independence celebrations and the association’s commitment to developing badminton throughout Guyana.

The men’s and women’s Singles categories, which were recently added to the tournament, generated significant excitement among players and fans alike.

The competition was scheduled to continue last evening and today, and tomorrow’s matches commence at 14:00hrs or 2 pm. The finals and presentation ceremony are scheduled for tomorrow. ENGLISH RACING TIPS

“The tournament also serves as an opportunity to unite athletes while providing younger players with valuable exposure and competitive experience alongside some of Guyana’s top badminton players.

The association is grateful to the Government of Guyana, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and all of those who contributed to this tournament,” declared Watson

Gomes and Abosaide Cadogan beat

GSA’s 60th Independence Anniversary Badminton Tournament serves

off

THE Guyana Squash Association’s (GSA’s) 60th Independence Anniversary Badminton Tournament commenced on Thursday at the National Racquet Centre on Woolford Avenue with five matches.

This tournament forms a part of each association hosting tournaments to celebrate Guyana’s Diamond Jubilee Independence Anniversary.

The four-day tournament will conclude on Sunday with the finals and presentation. (SD)

Results:

Mixed Doubles Juniors

Ethan Bulkan / Emily Fung A Fat defeated Egan Bulkan / Rylee Rodrigues 11-7, 6-11, 11-7

Women’s Doubles Elite

[3] Kirsten Gomes / Abosaide Cadogan defeated [2] Akeila Wiltshire / Larissa Wiltshire 11-10, 11-7

Men’s Doubles Elite

Ashante Smith / Louis Da Silva defeated Alex Arjoon (Demerara-Mahaica) / Javid Rahaman 11-7, 11-6

Mixed Doubles Seniors

Jason-Ray Khalil / Ashley Khalil (Demerara-Mahaica) defeated Larissa Wiltshire / Ashante Smith 7-11, 11-4, 11-4

Mixed Doubles Seniors

Alex Arjoon (Demerara-Mahaica) / Mary Fung-A-Fat defeated Nicholas Verwey / Kirsten Gomes 11-7, 11-10

Motie’s move to Tridents headlines

2026 CPL local player draft picks

THE draft for the 2026 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has concluded, with all seven franchises confirming their local West Indian rosters for the upcoming season.

The expanded tournament, featuring the newly introduced Jamaica Kingsmen, is scheduled to run from August 7 to September 20, 2026.

The headline move of the draft sees left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie end his five-year association with his home franchise, the Guyana Amazon Warriors, after being snapped up by the Barbados Tridents.

The Tridents also secured fellow Guyanese explosive batter Sherfane Rutherford, who returns to the Barbados setup after featuring for them in 2025.

Defending champions Trinbago Knight Riders opted for stability, heavily utilising their Right to Match Options (RMOs) to retain their legendary core of Sunil Narine, Nicholas Pooran, Kieron Pollard, and Akeal Hosein. Meanwhile, the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots have assembled a formidable opening combination by drafting the CPL’s all-time leading run-scorer, Johnson Charles, alongside the second-highest run-scorer in tournament history, Andre Fletcher.

The newly minted Jamaica Kingsmen made a massive splash in their homecoming draft, locking down the premier all-round T20 services of Rovman Powell and Andre

7 at the Arnos

Guyana’s 60th Independence Anniversary Badminton Tournament commenced on Thursday

By Sean Devers

THE Guyana Badminton Association’s (GBA’s) four-night 60th Independence Anniversary Badminton Tournament’ served off on Thursday evening with several keenly contested games despite rain pounding on the roof of the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue.

Sporting associations across Guyana will host tournaments in celebration of Guyana’s Diamond Jubilee Independence Anniversary. The Guyana Squash Association (GSA) and the GBA were the first to do so.

The GBA has over 60 players registered to play, including former

national player Amanda Lowe-Lewis, who was expected to play last night after recently returning from Jamaica.

According to the GBA, the tournament will be across seven categories: Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, Mixed Doubles, and Under-23 Men’s and Women’s Singles.

Watched by a gathering of mainly players and officials, the raucous support from the Demerara Badminton Club, led by former national player Grandison Robinson, sounded like 3,000 fans in the stands.

In an enthralling contest in the U-23 Men’s Singles between Joel Rambiriche and Hasani Robinson,

Joel won 21-11, 16-21, 21-18, in a gruelling battle that sent the match to three sets.

This was after Robinson, the son of Grandison, had won the second set. Joel’s hard-fought victory had his fans jumping and screaming.

Another game which brought the fans to their feet was between 11-year-old Caleb Tan and Halen Jiang in the U-23 Men’s Singles. Tan, from Singapore, has been residing here with his parents for over a year. He demonstrated a high level of skill and game awareness.

Tan attends the Georgetown International Academy and used the angles very well.

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