Issuu

16th August, 2026

See Inside No.1081878

Gov’t continues to take public services closer to citizens

SEE PAGE

- over 6,000 transactions already processed at Region Nine centre; Bartica, Region Ten next

SERVICES CLOSER TO THE PEOPLE: The Government Service Centre in Region Nine provides residents with access to passport, civil registration, Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), electronic identification (e-ID) and other essential government services under one roof, as Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation, Zulfikar Ally gets a first-hand look at what is being delivered at the facility

EMBRACE platform to expand counselling for MV Barima survivors, families - through local, international mental health professionals

‘These delays will no longer be tolerated’

SEE PAGE

- Minister Ramraj orders assessment to determine next steps on delayed Hague Back Road Project

314 babies Gov’t moves to delivered at strengthen Linden Bath Regional power supply as Hospital since its demand surges 2025 opening SEE PAGE

SEE PAGE

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

Gov’t continues to take public services closer to citizens

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

- over 6,000 transactions already processed at Region Nine centre; Bartica, Region Ten next

THE Government is accelerating its push to take essential public services closer to citizens across Guyana, with more than 6,000 transactions already processed through the recently established Government Service Centre in Region Nine, and similar facilities earmarked for Bartica and Region Ten. Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation Zulfikar Ally has said that the expanding network of one-stop centres forms part of the Government's wider drive to decentralise services, cut bureaucracy, and reduce the time and money Guyanese spend travelling to access basic government services. Speaking at the launch of the Region Nine facility, Ally said the centre represents much more than another government building in the Rupununi. Instead, it brings several services together under one roof, allowing residents to conduct routine government business closer to home rather than travelling hundreds of kilometres to Georgetown. The importance of that shift is already being demonstrated, with Ally revealing that more than 6,000 transactions have been processed at the facility since it began operating. For residents of Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), Guyana's largest administrative region and one of the most geographically challenging, access to Central Government services has traditionally meant significant travel, time away from work, and additional expenses. The government is seeking to change that through the establishment of integrated service centres across the country. Ally said Bartica, the capital of Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), is next in line for its own Government Service Centre, while plans are also advancing for a similar facility in Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice). The ultimate objective is to establish accessible service points across all 10 administrative regions, thus ensuring that where a person lives does not determine the

Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation Zulfikar Ally Government Service Centre in Lethem, Region Nine quality or accessibility of government services available to them. GROWING NETWORK The Region Nine facility forms part of a network of Government Service Centres being established as the administration moves towards greater decentralisation and digitalisation of the public sector. The first centre was commissioned at the West Central Mall in Leonora, Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), in December 2025 by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and Minister Ally. That facility brought several frequently accessed government services into a single location, including passport applications and renewals, birth and death certificates, marriage licences, driver's licence applications, Guyana Revenue Authority services and enrolment for the electronic identification system. The initiative was subsequently expanded to Fort Wellington in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) in February 2026. Another centre was established at Cotton Field on the Essequibo Coast in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) in April, further extending access to government services outside Georgetown. That facility brought together services from agencies including the General Register Office, Passport Office, Environmental Protection Agency, Small Business Bureau and Legal Aid,

among others. The rollout continued into Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), where another integrated facility was commissioned in June, providing residents with access to services including the Guyana Revenue Authority, immigration, civil registration and digital identification registration. Plans are also moving ahead to extend the model to Region One (Barima-Waini). During an outreach to Moruca earlier this month, President Ali announced that an existing post office in Santa Rosa would be converted into a government service hub. The facility is expected to provide residents with access to several services, including civil registration, passport, revenue, postal, banking and digital identifi-

cation services. With Region Nine now added to the network, and Bartica and Region Ten next on the agenda, the government is steadily moving towards nationwide coverage. MODERNISING PUBLIC SERVICES The physical expansion of the centres is being complemented by a wider programme to modernise the way citizens interact with the Government. President Ali has tasked Ally's ministry with advancing reforms aimed at improving efficiency across the public service, including modernising systems, digitising records, and strengthening the capacity of public servants. A Public Service Management Portal is also part of the reform agenda as the administration moves away from heavily paper-based

processes towards faster and more accountable systems. At the same time, work is progressing on a centralised digital platform through which Guyanese will eventually be able to access a range of government services Online. The broader objective is to create a system where citizens can access services either digitally or through conveniently located physical centres without having to move between several government offices. The Government has maintained that technology and decentralisation must work together, particularly given Guyana's geography and the challenges faced by residents in hinterland and riverine communities. The reforms are also being accompanied by efforts to strengthen the skills of public servants who will be responsible for delivering services under the new

system. Among those initiatives is a Public Service Upskilling Platform, developed with Online learning provider, Coursera, which provides public servants with access to training programmes aimed at improving their professional and technical capabilities. For residents of Region Nine, Guyana's largest and one of its most remote administrative regions, bordering Brazil, the new centre significantly shortens what has traditionally been a long and expensive journey to Georgetown for routine government business. With Bartica and Region Ten next in line, the Government says the network of Service Centres will continue to expand as it works towards its stated goal of bringing quality public service within reach of every Guyanese, wherever they live.

The facility brought several frequently accessed government services into a single location, including passport applications and renewals, birth and death certificates, marriage licences, driver’s licence applications, Guyana Revenue Authority services and enrolment for the electronic identification system

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

‘A global leader across numerous fields’ — President Ali praises India on 79th year of Independence

President, Dr Irfaan Ali and Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali has extended congratulations to the Government and people of India as the Asian nation marks its Independence Anniversary, describing the bond between Georgetown and New Delhi as "an enduring friendship anchored in

deep historical and cultural ties." In a statement released on Saturday, President Ali said he was writing on behalf of the Government and people of Guyana to extend warmest congratulations to India as it celebrates its 79th Independence Anniversary

and 80th Independence Day celebrations. Reflecting on the country's trajectory since 1947, the President said India's journey over "almost eight decades" has been shaped by "the resilience, determination and ingenuity of its people," a path he credited with transforming the country "into a global leader across numerous fields." Turning to the relationship between the two countries, President Ali pointed to "strong people-to-people connections" and what he called "an expanding partnership built on mutual respect

President Dr Irfaan Ali engages President of India, Droupadi Murmu and shared aspirations" as defining features of the Guyana-India relationship today. He closed the message by joining "the people of Guyana in celebrating [India's] achievements," wishing the Indian people "continued peace, prosperity and progress" on the occasion. India gained independence from British colonial rule on August 15, 1947. This year's observance marks 79 completed years of independence, even as New Delhi officially designates it the 80th Independence Day celebration, a numbering distinction that accounts for the

inaugural 1947 event itself being counted as the first. President Ali's message continues a long-standing tradition of reciprocal goodwill between the two governments, whose diplomatic relations date back to 1965, a year before Guyana itself gained independence. That relationship is underpinned by deep people-to-people ties: a significant share of Guyana's population traces its ancestry to Indian indentured labourers brought to the then-British colony in the nineteenth century; a heritage still celebrated annually through Indian Arrival Day. The bilateral relationship has been especially active in recent years. President Ali led an official delegation to India in January 2023 as chief guest at the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas, where

he was conferred with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman award in recognition of his contribution to strengthening ties with the Indian diaspora. Co-operation between the two countries has since expanded across energy, healthcare, digital innovation, capacity-building and sustainable development, supported by mechanisms such as India's ITEC and ICCR scholarship programmes. The greeting also comes only months after Guyana marked its own Diamond Jubilee, 60 years of independence, in May 2026, celebrations that drew messages of solidarity from India's Ministry of External Affairs, which reaffirmed New Delhi's commitment to a "trusted and forward-looking partnership" with Georgetown.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

‘These delays will no longer be tolerated’ - Minister Ramraj orders assessment to determine next steps on delayed Hague Back, Road Project

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Madanlall Ramraj has ordered an immediate review of the Hague Back Road Project following serious complaints from residents about continued delays by the project contractor

MINISTER within the Ministry of Public Works Madanlall Ramraj has ordered an immediate review of the Hague Back Road Project following serious complaints from residents about continued delays by the project contractor. The scope of works includes 660 metres of revetment, and 1,000 metres of asphalted roadway, with the revetment component currently approximately 71 per cent complete.

Minister Ramraj expressed deep disappointment with the contractor’s performance, and instructed the Ministry’s engineers to submit full documentation on the works completed, all outstanding works, and the contractor’s proposed plan for completing the project. “ We h a v e g i v e n this contractor enough time to get these works completed, and at some point, a decision has to be made on what happens next. We cannot

continue to inconvenience residents because of delays on a project that directly affects them every single day,” Minister Ramraj said. The project was awarded to NK Engineering in July 2025 under a six-month contract. Completion was initially due in January 2026, with an extension

subsequently granted to February. More than six months after that extended deadline, the project remains only 52 per cent complete. Minister Ramraj has made it clear that the prolonged delay cannot continue without consequence. The contractor’s performance, outstanding obligations, and proposed comple-

tion schedule are now being assessed as the Ministry determines its next course of action on the contract. During a site visit Saturday, Minister Ramraj was accom-

panied by Member of Parliament Vickash Ramkissoon, local NDC leaders, and engineers and technical staff from the Ministry of Public Works.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

Power Balance

GUYANA’S electricity demand has doubled in six years, and rather than being caught flat-footed, the government is meeting that surge with a cleareyed, two-pronged strategy. Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar's comments at the Prime Minister Brigadier Mark Phillips’s press conference was a welcome show of transparency. It represented officials laying out exact figures, current shortfalls, and a concrete plan, rather than leaving the public to guess

why the lights occasionally flicker. That kind of candour is itself a form of good governance. Consider the scale of what has already been achieved. Since taking office in 2020, the government has added approximately 196 megawatts of generation capacity, nearly matching the entire demand base that existed at the time. That is not incremental tinkering; it is a sustained, multi-year buildout happening in real time alongside an economy that is expanding faster than almost anywhere else in

the region. GPL's customer base has grown by roughly 46,000 connections since 2020, which is precisely the kind of problem a growing, modernising country should hope to have. The measures Indar outlined show a government working every available lever at once. Temporarily shifting large industrial loads in East Berbice and on the East Bank off the grid during peak strain is smart, targeted load management, not a sign of crisis. Encouraging businesses with their own generation to self-supply during peak hours reduc-

es pressure without costing consumers a single kilowatt. And the decision to tighten up energy use in government buildings and idle sporting facilities shows the administration is willing to lead by example before asking households to adjust their own habits. The numbers ahead are equally encouraging. Capacity is set to climb to roughly 265MW by Monday with the Garden of Eden engine coming online, and on to 280.3MW by the end of August as the Hyundai generator returns from repair, an overhauled engine rejoins

service, and the powership contributes another 5MW. That trajectory keeps supply ahead of the projected 266MW peak, delivered on a compressed timeline during the most demanding months of the year. Layered on top of that is the gas-to-energy project, with a 57-megawatt turbine now committed by the contractor, a transformational addition that will give the country room to grow for years to come. None of this suggests a system running on luck. It reflects a government that tracks its grid closely,

communicates openly when strain appears, and pairs near-term fixes with longterm investment. Asking households to switch off unused lights during the evening peak is not a sign of desperation; it is the kind of shared, low-cost civic effort that complements a much larger infrastructure push already under way. Guyana's power demand has nearly doubled in six years because Guyana itself is growing, and on the evidence presented this week, the government is scaling the grid to match.

When former opponents choose partnership, we should ask why

Dear Editor, The decision by Wayne Mason to engage with the leadership of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic and express a willingness to contribute to the development of Georgetown and Guyana deserves more than the usual partisan reaction. It deserves serious political reflection. Mr. Mason may not have occupied the highest offices of government, but those familiar with the political machinery of the former PNCR know that political influence is not measured by titles alone. He was a committed activist, organizer and mobilizer one of those persons upon whom a political organisation depends to maintain its strength at the grassroots. I knew him from that period. He chaired one of the strongest party groups,

the only group larger than the one I led, and was consistently present when the party required organization and political activism in Georgetown and elsewhere. That history makes his present engagement with the PPP/C politically significant. I can hear the names house slave, soup drinker, slave catcher, dog and all the others we all heard time and again. But the fundamental question should therefore not be one of insult or condemnation. It should be: Why are individuals who once vigorously opposed the PPP/C now prepared to work with it? That question becomes even more relevant when other political alternatives, including the new main opposition movement called WIN, (no pun intended). Part of the answer, in my

view, lies in the transformation taking place within the PPP/C itself. Under President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, the PPP/C has deliberately sought to broaden its political and social reach beyond its traditional constituencies. It is increasingly presenting itself not simply as a party seeking electoral support across ethnic communities, but as a national political organization in which Guyanese of different backgrounds can participate. That distinction is important. Guyana’s political history has too often encouraged the assumption that ethnicity determines political allegiance. But a modern democracy cannot mature if citizens are expected to inherit political loyalties because of their race, community or family history.

Political support should be earned through leadership, performance, policies and the confidence people have in a government’s direction. The PPP/C Government has provided citizens with something tangible against which it can be judged: its record in office, its development agenda and the implementation of many of the commitments upon which it sought an electoral mandate. People can see roads, bridges, housing development, hospitals, schools, free tertiary education, improved financial grants community investments and expanding economic opportunities. They may debate the pace, priorities and effectiveness of particular policies as citizens should but there is an identifiable national development programme underway.

There is another dimension that should not be underestimated: The PPPC leadership’s political maturity, which requires the capacity to welcome yesterday’s opponents as today’s partners. If someone who once criticized the PPP/C is prepared to work constructively for Guyana’s development, that person’s past opposition does not permanently disqualify him or her from contributing. A governing party aspiring to become genuinely national must be sufficiently confident to accommodate people who did not historically belong to it.I understand this personally. My own political journey has taught me that changing one’s political position does not automatically mean abandoning one’s principles. Sometimes circumstances change. Leadership changes.

Parties change. Governments evolve. And individuals have a responsibility to reassess where they believe they can most effectively contribute to their communities and country. The appropriate test is therefore not, “Who did you support yesterday?” It should be, “What are you prepared to contribute to Guyana tomorrow?” This is why Mr. Mason’s engagement should cause political parties across Guyana to reflect rather than ridicule. When experienced grassroots activists who once stood firmly against the PPP/C become willing to engage with it, the development warrants examination. No political party owns any ethnic group, community or individual. Neither African Guyanese, Indo-Guyanese, InTURN TO PAGE 7

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

Yupukari sees community development through LCDS funding

YUPUKARI, Region Nine, has seen a tremendous increase in investment in agriculture, education, and water infrastructure through funding received under Guyana’s Low-Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). This is according to Toshao Russian Dorrick during a recent interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI) about the development projects being implemented in the communities. The Toshao is also responsible for the communities of Qwatata, Kaicumbay, and Fly Hill. He said the funding available to Amerindian communities has increased the scope of projects that can be undertaken as compared to previous presidential grants. “In 2015, we could have only received a presidential grant of $1.5 million. Of course, that couldn’t do any much work. Recently, we introduced the low-carbon development strategy, which Amerindian com-

A front view of the Yupukari Health Centre

munities benefitted from 15 per cent, which we have seen improvement in Yupukari,” Dorrick said. The funds have been used to support several initiatives, including agriculture and economic activities. Dorrick said seven projects were undertaken to cultivate watermelon, creating employment and income opportunities for residents. Additionally, approximately $4.8 million was utilised to drill a well to

improve access to water in the area. The village drilled two more wells and installed trestles to provide water to outlying communities that currently are not benefitting from potable water infrastructure. Further, using the 2025 presidential grant, the village also cultivated two acres of cassava to support its local cassava-processing operations. “We have cassava processing in our community. So, to feed our

When former opponents... FROM PAGE 6

digenous Guyanese nor any other section of our society should be treated as inherited political property. President Ali’s emphasis on One Guyana, coupled with the PPP/C leadership’s effort to attract people from outside its traditional political base, represents an opportunity to weaken those historical boundaries. Whether that transformation ultimately succeeds will be judged by how genuinely inclusive governance remains and whether opportunities and development continue to reach Guyanese regardless of ethnicity, geography or previous political affiliation. That is the standard to which the Government should be

held. The significance of people such as Wayne Mason choosing engagement, therefore, extends beyond one individual. It points towards something potentially much larger: a political culture in which yesterday’s adversaries can become today’s collaborators without surrendering their right to independent thought. Guyana is changing. Its economy is changing. Its infrastructure is changing. Its international importance is changing. Our politics must mature alongside that transformation. The objective should not simply be to enlarge one political party. It should be to build a national movement

around development, inclusion, opportunity and unity. If the PPP/C continues demonstrating that there is room within that movement for Guyanese who once opposed it, while delivering measurable improvements in people’s lives, then we should not be surprised when more people decide that they too want to participate. And when they do, they should not be condemned for where they came from. They should be judged by what they are prepared to contribute to where Guyana is going. Your’s respectfully, Jermaine Figueira Former Member of Parliament.

processing, we would have planted, and by next month I think we will be able to harvest that and start to make kari for the Heritage celebration,”

Dorrick said. Meanwhile, Education has also been a priority, with the village contributing $1 million towards the nursery school and a further $500,000 to the new secondary school. Dorrick said the completion of the projects impacted community development. “All of my projects for 2025 have been completed, which I’m very happy about, and I can testify that I commissioned them and they are functional,” he said. He said the continued investment is providing communities with the resources needed to strengthen agriculture, improve public services,

and create greater economic opportunities for residents. Yupukari is an indigenous Macushi and Wapishana village in the Central Rupununi (Region Nine) of Guyana, situated along the Rupununi River between the Kanuku and Pakaraima Mountains. It is known for its rich biodiversity and conservation efforts. The government, through the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, has emphasised self-empowerment, job creation, and development by continuing to support their progress through LCDS funds and other government incentives. (DPI)

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

314 babies delivered at Bath Regional Hospital since its 2025 opening

The following is the full text of a statement from the Bath Regional Hospital to support its position: “Recent claims by Azruddin Mohamed about the Bath Regional Hospital require a response, not with political rhetoric, but with facts. “Since Bath Regional Hospital opened on 30 July, 2025, 314 babies have been delivered there. Four infants have died. Every one of those deaths represents an unimaginable loss, and our deepest sympathies remain with the families. “But grief must never be exploited to create a false narrative about healthcare. “The suggestion that an infant death automatically proves negligence or inadequate care is medically irresponsible. Each

case must be assessed on its individual clinical circumstances and evidence. Following these deaths, families were engaged, medical findings were explained, and, where appropriate, post-mortem exam-

inations were conducted. In some cases, families declined post-mortem examinations despite being advised of their importance in determining the cause of death. “Mr. Mohamed is en-

titled to ask questions. He is not entitled to present speculation as established medical fact. “Anyone genuinely interested in what occurred should support proper clinical review, exam-

ination of the complete medical records and appropriate investigation, not diagnosis by social media. “Bath Regional Hospital has delivered hundreds of babies, and continues to

serve thousands of people. Its doctors, nurses and other healthcare workers deserve scrutiny when warranted, but they also deserve fairness. Partial accounts can create unnecessary fear and mistrust among the very patients who depend upon the hospital. “Families with concerns should have those concerns heard and properly investigated. The hospital has specifically invited patients and relatives to engage its management so the relevant medical information can be reviewed and appropriate explanations provided. “The standard must be simple: Facts before politics, evidence before accusation, and compassion before exploitation. “The people of Region 5 deserve nothing less.”

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

India’s progress since 1947, vision highlighted at Independence Day event

THE High Commission of India and the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre marked India’s 79th year of Independence and 80th Independence Day celebration on Saturday, with a ceremony that saw booth formal tributes and cultural presentations celebrating the country’s heritage and struggle towards freedom. Speaking at the observance, Chargé d’Affaires and Acting High Commissioner of India Manoj Kumar said the occasion was one of national pride, and an opportunity to pay homage to those who fought for India’s independence, while also celebrating the long-standing relationship between India and Guyana. “Today, as we celebrate India's Independence Day, we also cherish India-Guyana relations,” Kumar said. India gained independence from British rule on August 15, 1947, following a long struggle involving people from across the country. Kumar said the struggle was marked by “robust optimism”, which has continued to propel India’s progress since independence. He also cited a message from President Irfaan Ali to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in which the Guyanese Head of State hailed the “courage, sacrifice, and determination” of the Indian people, noting that their struggle had inspired oppressed and colonised people around the world. The occasion also featured excerpts from an address delivered

Manoj Kumar, Chargé d’Affaires and Acting High Commissioner of India, delivering remarks during the 80th Independence Day observance (Sachin Persaud photos)

by Indian President Droupadi Murmu on the eve of Independence Day, in which she reflected on the meaning of freedom and India’s development since 1947. “Every citizen became an architect of the destiny of independent India,” Murmu said. Looking ahead, she said India is working towards building a “Viksit Bharat”, or developed India, by the centenary of independence in 2047. “Guided by the spirit of Antyodaya, it is our resolve to ensure that the fruits of development reach every individual,” Murmu said. The President highlighted a range of social and economic achievements, including the lifting people out of poverty and the expansion of financial inclusion. India’s infrastructure and digital transformation were also highlighted, with Murmu pointing to the expansion of highways, waterways, railways and airways. “India has developed the world's largest and best digital infrastructure,” she said, noting that digital payments have become common even in small

rural shops and among street vendors. “More than half of the world's real-time digital transactions take place in India alone,” she added. The observance also featured a series of cultural presentations celebrating India’s heritage and patriotism. The programme included patriotic group songs by vocal students of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, a children’s dance to “Jai Ho,” patriotic, a steel pan performance by the St. Stanislaus Steel Pan Orchestra, a patriotic solo dance by Priyanshu and a patriotic play on national unity and patriotism directed by Dr. Ashish Kumar Mishra. The programme also featured a women’s empowerment dance by the Surbhi Group and a presentation by Abhishek Khichi and his students showcasing India’s four regions through dance, culminating in a patriotic performance of “Lehra Do” dedicated to the Indian Tricolour. Kumar, in closing, extended Independence Day greetings to members of the Indian diaspora in Guyana and across the

A dance performance marking India’s 80th Independence Day

Caribbean.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

EMBRACE platform to expand counselling for MV Barima survivors, families - through local, international mental health professionals

THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security is set to launch a new Online counselling platform aimed at providing expanded psychosocial support to survivors and families affected by the MV Barima tragedy. The platform, called EMBRACE, will initially provide counselling services to persons impacted by the tragedy before eventually becoming part of a wider National Counselling Platform being developed by the ministry. Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud, speaking on the Starting Point podcast, said the initiative will bring together professionals from Guyana and the diaspora to provide support beyond what the ministry currently has the capacity

Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud speaking on the Starting Point podcast

to offer. “I am ensuring that an Online platform will be launched; it is called Embrace, and the first effort of this platform is going to be the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security National Counselling Platform, which will be

expanding over time,” Dr. Persaud said. The minister related that the first priority will be to make counselling available to anyone impacted by the MV Barima tragedy, with professionals volunteering their services through the platform.

Moreover, she also acknowledged the support provided by the Guyana Association of Professional Social Workers, the University of Guyana’s Social Work Department and other professionals who assisted the ministry’s response on the ground in Region One. Dr. Persaud said international support was also secured through the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), with specialists being part of the response in the region. She noted, “Through this mechanism, we are going to be contacting people, but we have already gotten persons who have reached out and we are going to put them all together.” Under the platform, persons seeking support will be able to request a counselling session and select from a list of

available professionals based on their areas of speciality. Minister Persaud said the service will provide confidential counselling through audio or audio-visual sessions, allowing affected persons to access support remotely. “It is going to be a system where persons can request a time, they will see the list that is available, their specialities, and they can have confidential therapy and counselling from any one of these persons,” she said. The minister said work on the platform began almost immediately following the tragedy and that she personally tested the system last week as preparations continue for its public launch. As she noted, “I am trying to ensure that everything is provided.

It took a little longer because we started to build this almost immediately and I tested it last week.” Dr. Persaud added that the final product is expected to be available this week, allowing members of the public to begin accessing the service. The initiative forms part of the ministry’s broader efforts to strengthen access to mental health and psychosocial support, particularly for persons impacted by the MV Barima tragedy. Through EMBRACE, the ministry aims to create a wider network of professionals who can provide support to affected families while laying the groundwork for the expansion of its National Counselling Platform.

Speed limiters set for rollout

-officers to undergo training before devices are installed, Traffic Chief says THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) is moving ahead with the implementation of speed limiters, with the devices now in its possession and training for certified officers scheduled to begin on Monday. Traffic Chief, Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Singh, said the training will be conducted for officers identified and certified to carry out the installation and related processes. “Speed limiters are already in the police's possession and the next step,

the very important one, is the training of our Licenced [sic] and Certified [sic] Officers,” Singh said. He said that following completion of the training, officers will begin installing the devices on the relevant vehicles, after which the speed limiters will be verified and certified before they are officially implemented. According to Singh, the devices are intended to control the maximum speed at which vehicles fitted with them can travel, forming part of efforts to improve road safety and reduce accidents. As he noted, “It allows for the motor lorry to travel

at a certain speed that has been capped. That is the maximum speed at which you will be allowed to travel with one of the devices or devices installed.” While the implementation of speed limiters is expected to strengthen enforcement and road safety, Singh stressed that technology alone cannot address the country's road-safety challenges. He said a significant change in drivers’ behaviour is also necessary, particularly as there is an established culture of motorists failing to properly observe road rules. He shared, “One thing that can be done to ensure

safety on the roadways is a change in the behaviour of a driver.” The Traffic Chief urged motorists to obey the rules of the road, follow traffic signs and operate within the prescribed speed limits. He also called on drivers to operate lawfully and avoid behaviours that can place themselves and other road users at risk. Singh specifically urged motorists not to drive under the influence of alcohol, while reminding them of their responsibility to give priority to vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, the elderly and persons with disabilities. “It is worth it to ensure

a few things. One, you drive within speed limits. Two, you would not drive under the influence of alcohol. Three, you give priority to those who are challenged or vulnerable such as pedestrians, the elderly or the disabled,” he said. The Traffic Chief said road safety ultimately requires the involvement of everyone who uses Guyana's roadways. He encouraged members of the public to play their part in creating safer roads, noting that the police and other stakeholders cannot achieve the desired improvements without responsible behaviour from

Traffic Chief, Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Singh

motorists and other road users. With the speed limiters now delivered, the upcoming training represents the next stage before the devices are installed, verified and certified for use, paving the way for their implementation in keeping Guyana’s roadways safe.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

How the Energy Sector is reshaping business and finance in Guyana GUYANA’S energy sector is not only changing what happens offshore, it is also changing how businesses operate, how financial institutions assess opportunities and how local companies prepare for growth. The recent launch of the 2027 Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo provides a timely opportunity to consider this wider impact. The conference will bring together policymakers, investors, energy companies, financial institutions, professional service providers and local businesses. For Guyanese companies, the value of such a platform goes beyond attending presentations or setting up an exhibition booth. It provides an opportunity to better understand where the market is heading, what investors and major companies require, and how businesses can prepare to benefit from the opportunities being created. That preparation increasingly starts with finance. Companies seeking to expand into the energy supply chain often need capital to purchase equipment, hire and train employees, improve facilities, obtain certification

and introduce stronger management systems. These investments can be difficult for small and medium-sized businesses to finance using their existing resources. As demand grows, banks and other financial institutions are increasingly being called upon to understand a more specialised business environment. A company seeking financing to service an energy-sector contract may have different needs from a traditional retail or commercial borrower. Its costs may be higher, payment arrangements may be more complex, and the standards it must meet may require significant investment before work begins. This means financing cannot be viewed only as access to a loan. Businesses may also need guidance on cash flow management, insurance, risk management, taxation, financial reporting, and long-term investment planning. Financial institutions, in turn, have an opportunity to continue developing services that respond to the realities of companies operating in expanding supply chains. The energy sector is also creating more demand for professional

services. Accountants, insurers, legal practitioners, compliance specialists, data analysts, technology providers, and business advisors all have roles to play in helping companies prepare for larger and more complex opportunities. A local business may have the technical ability to deliver a service, but that alone may not be enough. It must also be able to produce accurate financial records, meet tax and regulatory requirements, manage contracts, maintain insurance, pay employees and suppliers on time and demonstrate that its operations are reliable. These requirements should not be seen simply as barriers. They are part of building stronger companies. Standards required by many energy-sector contracts can encourage businesses to improve systems that will remain useful even when they pursue work outside oil and gas. Better financial management, stronger safety systems, reliable recordkeeping and a trained workforce can help a company compete in agriculture, construction, manufacturing, tourism and other sectors. This is one reason the

2027 Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo can be useful to the local private sector. It creates a space where businesses can learn directly from industry participants, financial professionals, investors and potential partners. The conference can also help companies move beyond waiting for contracts to become available. By listening to discussions about future projects, technology, infrastructure, and supply chain needs, businesses can begin to identify where demand may emerge and what investments will be required. That information can support better decisions. A company may determine that it needs new equipment, but it may also discover that forming a partnership, improving its financial records or investing in staff certification should come first. Another business may realise that its strongest opportunity is not in providing a traditional service, but in offering accounting, digital, insurance, logistics or advisory support to other companies entering the sector. However, attending a conference or meeting potential investors will not automatically make

a business ready. Companies must still do the internal work. They need to understand their costs, maintain proper records, separate personal and business finances and develop realistic plans for growth. They must also avoid taking on financing or contracts that exceed their ability to deliver. Rapid expansion without proper systems can place an otherwise promising business under serious pressure. Business readiness therefore requires ambition and structure. Companies should be able to explain what they offer, the problem they solve, the resources they need and how financing will help them generate sustainable returns. Financial institutions also have an important role. As Guyana’s economy develops, there is room for financing arrangements and advisory services that better reflect the needs of growing businesses. This must be balanced with responsible lending and proper risk assessment, but the objective should be to help capable companies make sound investments and build lasting capacity. The broader lesson is that the energy sector's influence extends well

beyond production. It is encouraging businesses to become more organised, financial institutions to respond to new demands and professional service providers to develop more specialised expertise. Platforms such as the Guyana Energy Conference make these changes easier to see. They connect businesses with information, investors and potential partners. What companies do with those connections will depend on how well they prepare. Guyana’s next stage of growth will require businesses that can compete, financial institutions that understand emerging opportunities and professionals who can help companies meet higher standards. Building those capabilities now will not only strengthen participation in the energy sector. It can create better businesses across the wider economy. DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.

The CCJ and the horrible remnants of colonial brainwashing ONE of the world’s most horrific manifestations of a country with an empty-minded leadership can be found right here in the CARICOM family of nations. Many of these CARICOM countries have the British monarchy as their final receptacle of State power in the form of the Governor-General. Does this have an explanation in psychology? Why this remains a mystery is because the former European empires have not been nice to their former colonies. Germany went into Namibia and perpetuated genocide. Yet Namibia received a literal

pittance in aid compared to the billions Israel gets from Germany. The imperialist nations of the world met among themselves and transformed the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade into the World Trade Organisation. It was almost a death blow. All trade preferences given to CARICOM nations were now gone. Sugar and banana had to compete with super-wealthy countries that produce such products. There was absolutely no reason for the former colonies to even tolerate their former colonisers,

much less like them, because independence was symbolic and not real. The former empires locked the former colonies into a labyrinthian maze, where, from independence to 2026, they still control the economies of their former colonies. For a beautiful outlay of this neo-colonial labyrinth, see the autobiography of Guyana’s former international scholar, Maurice Odle. What is sickening is that they not only control the economies but they also control the collective minds of the leadership of the post-colonial world.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

The largest and most graphic manifestation of this mental slavery is the refusal of many CARICOM nations to make the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) their final appellate court. In Jamaica and Trinidad, they prefer the Privy Council, situated in the UK. And who are or what is the Privy Council? There is no need for an elaborate description. The Privy Council consists of judges from Britain, the same judges that persecuted and prosecuted Julian Assange. The Privy Council consists of the same judges that assigned long prison sentences recently to people convicted of association with a banned group named Palestine Action. The Privy Council consists of judges that approved the stripping of the citizenship by the British government of two Muslim girls born in the UK but were married to ISIS men in Syria. This has to be a blatant miscarriage of justice. The normal route to go was to charge the two girls with acts of terrorism. Any citizen of any country can charge their nationals with acts of terrorism, even if those alleged crimes are committed on the high seas.

Even if the British Government was extremist in revoking the girls’ citizenship, it was an unconstitutional and illegal decision that the British courts should have struck down. Are these the Privy Council judges that certain CARICOM heads believe have more integrity than our own CCJ judges? Throughout the Western world, judges have adopted a prosecutorial mentality once the charge has political content, and especially if the accused is Muslim. Are these the judges that certain CARICOM heads believe are better than our own CCJ justices? At the moment, the CCJ is embroiled in a controversy that should now evaporate because the president of the CCJ, Justice Anderson, has handed down an elaborate and voluminous explanation. It is comical how opposition personalities in Guyana are using the controversy for anti-government purposes. Do these people read what takes place in the world? The recent CCJ controversy is a drop in the ocean to what takes place in the federal Supreme Court in the US. Any human in any part of the

globe with a law degree that keeps abreast with Supreme Court decisions would know that the US Supreme Court is bordering on being disgraceful. What takes place in that court is not only repugnant but incredible and unbelievable. In many judiciaries around the world, there are public disagreements among the members of the panel of appellate judges. The CCJ story is not new among national judiciaries, and certainly does not contain any elements that would undermine the integrity of the court. There is one dimension of this CCJ saga that needs to be analysed by Caribbean people. There may be a judge that may have done the unthinkable, and by that callous act could affect Caribbean integration. The CCJ, as Ruel Johnson so wisely observed last week on the Freddie Kissoon Show, is the only part of Caribbean integration where there is shared sovereignty among CARICOM nations. The CCJ makes decisions for all CARICOM nations, whether at the lower level or appellate level. The email regarding the judge that had a grievance with the president of the court should have never been leaked. This could damage Caribbean integration, and the decent thing for the person who leaked it to do is to resign. DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

Before we convict one of our brightest jurists

AZRUDDIN Mohamed, his lawyers and allies have spent the last week trying to turn leaked internal correspondence involving five judges of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) into legal projectiles. By week’s end, it looked very much like a pile‑on against CCJ President Winston An‑ derson, one of the Ca‑ ribbean’s most accom‑ plished jurists. Even Attor‑ ney-at-Law Nigel Hughes roused himself from slumber to weigh in. However, the Re‑ gional Judicial and Legal Services Commission (RJLSC) has announced a “transparent and inde‑ pendent review” of the allegations, and Justice Anderson himself has responded to the allega‑ tions. I don’t expect this will silence the noise. Azruddin is demand‑ ing that the court’s unan‑ imous extradition ruling be overturned, despite the inconvenient fact that not a single judge registered a dissent‑ ing opinion. Even with the CCJ reeling from a scandalous breach of its ring of confidential‑ ity, the prospect of that judgment being reversed is roughly equal to the likelihood of Azruddin’s maternal grandfather suddenly qualifying as “fully Afro”; implausi‑ ble, except perhaps in the minds of those who entertain an elastic rela‑ tionship with reality. In journalism, timing is the difference between news and history. The content of the leaked emails first appeared in Trinidad and Toba‑ go’s Sunday edition on

July 9. The byline went to Mark Bassant, an award-winning inves‑ tigative reporter with more than 25 years’ ex‑ perience. The central focus of Bassant’s story was an apparent internal crisis in the CCJ. Refer‑ ences to Azruddin’s ex‑ tradition case appeared only as a footnote. Who would leak con‑ fidential information? What’s there to gain? The motive, on the sur‑ face, appears to be a de‑ liberate attempt to weak‑ en the standing of the CCJ, not only before its Contracting Parties, but across the wider Carib‑ bean. If there is another motive, I don’t see it. Azruddin has the re‑ sources to benefit from such a leak, but there is no public evidence that he commissioned it. Had he done so, however, one might have expect‑ ed the story to emerge through a Guyanese me‑ dia outlet, perhaps with Gordon Moseley rather than Bassant, and the Daily Express carrying the byline. If not Azruddin, then who? A possible motive, and one that is gaining traction among prac‑ titioners of the legal profession in Trinidad and Tobago, involves Prime Minister Kamla Persad‑Bissessar and her United National Congress (UNC) party. Again, there is no evi‑ dence of this either. However, readers might recall that Prime Minister Kamla Per‑ sad-Bissessar vigorously objected to the reap‑ pointment of CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett. Trinidad contends that Dr. Bar‑ nett’s second term was

secured through an im‑ proper process at a re‑ treat attended by only some heads of govern‑ ment, and has sought a CCJ advisory opinion on whether it complies with the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas. That challenge is only the latest in a series of disputes. On Venezu‑ ela, Cuba, regional se‑ curity and CARICOM’s leadership, Trinidad and Tobago has increasingly found itself at odds with the prevailing mood of the Caribbean Commu‑ nity. Though not a Con‑ tracting Party to the CCJ, T&T has brought this in‑ ternal CARICOM quar‑ rel before the Court. An unfavourable opinion, which is highly likely, could leave Port of Spain more isolated and pub‑ licly embarrassed. It is not hard to see how that prospect might sharp‑ en anxiety within UNC

ranks. If actors aligned with Persad-Bissessar’s UNC orchestrated the leak, then it is easy to see how Azruddin jumped on the opportunity to create an escape hatch from a unanimous ruling against him. Where does that leave us? The mature public should be able to take the concerns attributed to the five judges seri‑ ously while still extend‑ ing Justice Anderson the elementary fairness owed to anyone accused in the court of public opinion. Before Justice Ander‑ son’s eloquent response, the Heads of Judiciary of Barbados, The Ba‑ hamas, Belize, Guyana, the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago condemned the breach of confidentiality, and reaf‑ firmed confidence in the CCJ, its independence,

integrity and compe‑ tence. Their message should rise above the partisan din. The CCJ is big‑ ger than leaked emails, bigger than an internal dispute, and certainly bigger than the disap‑ pointment of one litigant in Guyana. It is worth remem‑ bering, too, the life and record of the man be‑ ing reduced overnight to a political cartoon. Winston Anderson was born in rural Jamaica, studied at the University of the West Indies and Cambridge, earned a doctorate in international and environmental law, returned to the region, built a distinguished ac‑ ademic career at UWI, served as CARICOM’s General Counsel, pro‑ duced serious legal scholarship, and was appointed a judge of the CCJ in 2010. It’s true that a bril‑

liant academic may not always be an excellent administrator. A court president can encounter real resistance, make difficult decisions, or misjudge the temper of colleagues who are themselves experienced and deeply conscious of their equal judicial standing. Let every concern be properly investigated. Indeed, hold the CCJ ac‑ countable, but allow the facts to emerge. When confidence in courts is casually undermined, it is not one judge alone who suffers; the entire architecture of Caribbe‑ an justice is put at risk. 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 must learn to grow without losing its peace Guyana is changing rapidly. With new businesses emerging, construction is taking place across communities, entertainment is expanding, investment is creating new opportunities, and economic activity is reaching places that were once relatively quiet. Development is something Guyanese should welcome but development must not come at the expense of something equally important: the right of people to live in peace and comfort in their own homes and communities. Noise nuisance has become a growing social problem in Guyana. Loud music, amplified events, parties that continue into the early hours of the morning, noisy commercial activities, unnecessary vehicle noise and other disturbances can turn neighbourhoods into places where residents struggle to sleep, study, work or simply enjoy the basic peace that every community should provide. This is not an argument against entertainment, business or celebration. Guyanese are naturally social people. We love music, parties, cultural activities, religious gatherings, weddings, wakes, family functions and community events. These are important parts of our identity. The problem begins when enjoyment becomes disregard. The first question, therefore, is who carries the greatest responsibility for reducing noise nuisance: the police, businesses or citizens? The answer is that citizens themselves carry the greatest responsibility, while businesses and the police have important supporting roles. The police cannot be expected to stand outside every home, party, bar, shop or event and determine whether someone is being inconsiderate.

The current government cannot legislate every aspect of human behaviour. Enforcement is necessary, but enforcement should be the last line of defence, not the first response to every dispute. A responsible citizen should already understand that living in a community means accepting certain obligations to neighbours. If someone wants to host a party, they should consider the people living nearby. If a business intends to operate sound equipment late into the night, management should understand the impact on surrounding residents. If an event is being organised, organisers should think about its location, duration, volume and the people who will have to live with the consequences. That is basic consideration. And yes, Guyanese have a personal responsibility to think about how their behaviour affects others. We sometimes speak about noise as if it is merely an inconvenience. It is more than that. Persistent and excessive noise can interfere with sleep, concentration, education, work and family life. It can create unnecessary tension between neighbours and, in extreme situations, contribute to confrontations that could have been avoided entirely. A person enjoying loud music at midnight may see it as entertainment. The neighbour who has to wake at five o’clock in the morning to go to work may see it very differently. Both people have rights but the answer cannot be that one person’s enjoyment automatically overrides another person’s right to peace. This is where Guyana needs a stronger culture of neighbourly consideration. When people play music loudly, they should be

conscious of the time, the volume and the proximity of their neighbours. Those hosting events should communicate with nearby residents where appropriate, establish reasonable finishing times and take practical measures to contain excessive sound. Businesses have an even greater responsibility because their activities can affect entire communities. Restaurants, bars, entertainment establishments, event organisers, construction companies and other commercial operators should recognise that being licensed to conduct business does not mean being licensed to disturb everyone around them. A successful business should be a good neighbour. That means investing in appropriate sound management, respecting permitted operating hours, controlling amplified music and responding responsibly when legitimate complaints arise. Businesses should not wait until residents are angry and the police are called before taking action. Likewise, citizens should not immediately assume that every noise problem requires a confrontation or a police report. In many circumstances, a respectful conversation between neighbours can solve a problem before it becomes a dispute. That brings us to the fourth question: Should dealing with noise nuisance always require police intervention? Absolutely not. There are countless situations in which responsible behaviour could prevent the problem altogether. A neighbour who knows that a birthday celebration will involve music can inform those nearby. A person holding a family gathering can reduce the volume after a reasonable hour. An event

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

organiser can plan ahead. A business owner can establish sound controls. A neighbour who is disturbed can first communicate the problem calmly rather than immediately turning it into a personal conflict. But there must also be a clear understanding that voluntary responsibility has limits. Where people repeatedly ignore reasonable requests, deliberately create excessive noise, operate in breach of regulations or disturb communities without regard for others, enforcement becomes necessary. The police and other relevant authorities must have the capacity and willingness to act when the law is being violated. The answer, therefore, is not citizens versus police. It is citizens, businesses, communities and Government working together. This is particularly important as Guyana experiences economic growth and development. A growing economy inevitably brings more construction, more commercial activity, more vehicles, more entertainment and greater population density in some areas. Guyana cannot become a modern economy while pretending that communities will remain exactly as they were decades ago. But neither should modernisation mean accepting disorder. A developed country is not simply one with more buildings, larger roads, more businesses and greater investment. Development is also about how people live together. That means creating communities where economic activity can coexist with residential life. The government therefore has an important role. Laws and regulations must be clear. Agencies must have the resources to re-

spond to persistent violations. Complaints must be taken seriously, and enforcement should be fair and consistent. There must also be public education so citizens understand their responsibilities. ut Government cannot manufacture consideration through legislation. This is why the fifth question is perhaps the most important: Does Guyana need a cultural and behavioural change rather than simply stronger enforcement? Yes. We need to move away from the mentality that says, “I am enjoying myself, so everybody else must simply tolerate it.” That attitude is not compatible with a modern, growing society. The cultural change Guyana needs is relatively simple: enjoy yourself, but remember that you are not living alone. Celebrate, but be considerate. Run your business, but respect your neighbours. Play your music, but recognise that other people have lives, responsibilities and families. Host your event, but plan responsibly. And when someone raises a legitimate concern, listen before becoming defensive. There is also a need to reject the idea that reducing noise is somehow an attack on Guyanese culture. It is not. Culture is not strengthened by disturbing others. Music, celebration and community life can continue without turning neighbourhoods into arenas of unnecessary noise. ndeed, the more Guyana develops, the more important this becomes. We cannot build modern cities and communities while retaining an old-fashioned attitude toward public order and personal responsibility. Economic growth must be accompanied by social maturity. The police have a

role. The government has a role. Businesses have a role but the greatest transformation must happen within us. Guyana’s future will require people to share increasingly crowded spaces, interact with more businesses, accommodate more development and live alongside neighbours whose lifestyles may differ from their own. That requires tolerance, communication, restraint and respect. Noise nuisance may seem like a small issue compared with the billions of dollars being invested in infrastructure, energy, agriculture, housing and other areas of national development. It is not. The quality of development is ultimately measured by the quality of life it creates. Guyana deserves growth. Guyana deserves investment. Guyana deserves vibrant communities and a thriving entertainment and business sector but Guyanese also deserve the simple privilege of being able to close their doors at night and find peace. That cannot be achieved by the police alone. It begins with each of us understanding one basic principle of community life: your freedom to enjoy yourself does not include the freedom to unnecessarily disturb everyone around you. If Guyana is serious about becoming a modern, prosperous and orderly nation, then we must learn to grow not only economically, but socially and sometimes, becoming a more developed country means learning something very simple. Turn the volume down! DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

Gov’t moves to strengthen Linden power supply as demand surges

THE Government is moving on several fronts to strengthen electricity supply in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), as rapid economic activity and expanding businesses push demand on the Linden grid to record levels. Region 10 has a standalone electricity network, with Bosai Minerals responsible for generating power for the area. The electricity is then supplied to consumers through two local utilities—the Linden Electric-

ity Company Incorporated (LECI), which serves the Mackenzie area, and the Linden Utility Services Co-operative Society Limited (LUSCSL), which serves Wismar. During a press conference on Friday, Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar, said the government is engaging electricity provider Bosai to increase generation capacity in Region 10. He said businesses are also being engaged on measures to manage electricity consumption during

peak periods. The interventions come as peak demand in Linden recently reached 15.1 megawatts (MW), exceeding the approximately 14.1 MW of generation currently being supplied by Bosai from its Mackenzie and Wismar operations. “So, we were short on generation there,” Indar said, noting that Region 10 is currently the only area where the country is experiencing a generation shortfall. He attributed the increased demand largely

to growing economic activity, particularly the expansion of the sawmilling sector. Indar said officials counted 32 sawmills operating in Linden and have been engaging their operators on measures to manage electricity consumption. He said, “They have 32 sawmills set up in Linden, and those 32 sawmills use Wood-Mizer equipment. They use high-speed motors, and those motors use a lot of power, which has added significantly to the demand in Linden.” Rather than restricting the growth of the industry, the government is working with sawmill operators to shift their electricity-intensive operations to periods when demand on the grid is lower. Indar said Linden experiences two major demand peaks, between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. and again between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. “They have been asked to work between 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. That is when people turn off the lights, the shops are closed down, and the demand drops,” he said. The arrangement is intended to allow the sawmills to continue operating while easing pressure on the grid during the hours when households and businesses place the greatest demand on the system. COMMERCIAL CONSUMPTION The government is also working to ensure that residential customers connected to sawmill businesses are not adversely affected by efforts to manage commercial consumption. Indar said some operators currently have a single connection serving both their businesses and homes. “Some of the sawmills have one connection for the business as well as the household. So, we are de-

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar taching those to make sure the house has power.” At the same time, the government is pursuing an immediate increase in generation for Region 10. “We're also engaging Bosai to add an additional three megawatts of power to that grid immediately,” he added. The Region 10 interventions form part of a wider programme to expand and strengthen Guyana's electricity system in response to rapidly increasing demand. National electricity demand recently reached 242.64 MW, the highest recorded since the Demerara-Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS) was formed, while planners expect demand to rise to approximately 266 MW during the August-to-October hot season. Indar said the increase is being driven by hotter weather, expanded housing activity and the rapid growth in the number of customers connected to the national grid. GPL's customer base has increased from approximately 204,000 in 2020 to 250,000 by July 2026, an increase of about 46,000 customers. “The peak demand then [in 2020] was 125 megawatts. Now it's 242.6 and counting. Literally double the demand in the period,” Indar said. To meet the growing demand, the government is also bringing additional generation capacity into

service. Reliable generation currently stands at approximately 256 MW, with a further 9.3 MW expected from an engine at Garden of Eden by Monday. By the end of August, additional interventions— including the return of a 4.5 MW Hyundai generator, another 5.5 MW engine undergoing a major overhaul and an additional 5 MW of generation—are expected to lift available generation to approximately 280.3 MW. Region 10 is also being positioned for greater renewable-energy capacity. Indar said solar projects under the government's programme are expected to add approximately seven MW to the Linden grid by the end of the year, including projects at locations identified as Dakoura and Block 37. An additional Eight megawatts solar plant at Retrieve is expected to come on stream next year. The minister said the government is addressing electricity challenges through a combination of increased generation, stronger transmission and distribution infrastructure, renewable energy and demand management. For Linden, the immediate measures are designed to ensure that the region's expanding economic activity can continue while the government works to bring additional generation capacity onto the grid.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

Two small habits to cut your el

WITH the hot season pushing the national grid to record levels, Guyana Power and Light (GPL) is renewing its call for households to build a few simple habits into their daily routine to conserve and reduce electricity bills. The push comes as the country’s power demand hits new highs. Guyana’s electricity consumption has nearly doubled in six years, and the Demerara-Berbice Interconnected System recorded a fresh peak of just over 242 megawatts, up from about 221 megawatts a year ago. It has been reported that August, September and October will be the hottest stretch of the year, with air-conditioning units and other appliances driving the heaviest use between 7 pm and 9 pm each evening. Planners expect peak demand to keep climbing towards roughly 266 megawatts before the season is out. Part of the strain is simply growth: GPL’s customer base has expanded from around 204,000 connections in 2020 to about 250,000 today, alongside a boom in housing and commercial activity. But conservation at the household level still matters, not just for the grid, but also for the individual bill. Two of GPL’s public-education materials lay out exactly where the easiest savings are hiding: The refrigerator, and everything else left plugged in around the house. MASTER YOUR FRIDGE — SAVE UP TO 20% Unlike a stove or an iron, the refrigerator never switches off. GPL notes that it can account for as much as a fifth of a household’s total electricity bill on its own, which also means it’s one of the biggest opportunities for savings. The utility’s guidance comes down to six rules: 1. Set it right: Keep the fridge compartment between 3°C and 5°C, and the freezer at −18°C. Anything colder

just burns extra power for no benefit. 2. Test the door seal: Close the door on a strip of paper — if it slides out easily, the gasket needs replacing. 3. Let food cool first: Putting hot pots straight into the fridge forces the compressor to work harder. Let food cool on the counter and refrigerate within two hours. 4. Open it less: Every minute the door stays open adds minutes of extra running time to bring the temperature back down.

5. Give it air: Leave about five centimetres of space behind and beside the unit, and dust the back coils twice a year. 6. Defrost, and keep it three-quarters full: Ice buildup thicker than a coin wastes energy, while a fuller fridge, not overstuffed, actually holds its cold better than a near-empty one. GPL says running the fridge right, on its own, can cut its energy use by up to 20 per cent.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

lectricity bill, conserve — GPL

UNPLUG WHAT YOU’RE NOT USING — SAVE 10% The second habit targets what energy planners call “phantom load” — the power that chargers, televisions, microwaves and other electronics quietly draw all day even when they’re switched off but still plugged in. GPL’s campaign illustrates the point with a typical household’s daily usage curve: Consumption is lowest overnight, rises with the morning routine, dips through midday, and spikes sharply in the early evening, precisely the 7 pm-to-9 pm window officials have flagged as the grid’s most stressed period. Trimming the idle draw from unused appliances, GPL says, can lower a household’s bill by about 10 per cent, with the biggest impact falling right around that evening peak. THE BOTTOM LINE Neither habit requires new equipment or major expense, just a change in routine. GPL frames the fridge rules and the unplugging habit as two of the fastest ways a household can bring its bill down: up to a fifth from the fridge, and a tenth more from unused appliances, adding up to savings approaching a third of what a home might otherwise spend. With demand climbing and the hottest months of the year still ahead, GPL has encouraged customers to treat these habits as a first step rather than a one-time fix. Customers can find more conservation guidance, view rates, or reach GPL’s Customer Care Call Centre at 592-226-2600 or via WhatsApp at 592-608-9090.

Coordination team formed to fast-track land regularisation across Guyana

ATTORNEY-General & Minister of Legal Affairs Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, MP, and Minister of

Labour and Manpower Planning Keoma Griffith on Friday convened a meeting to advance the

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

resolution of land regularisation matters raised during the Presidential outreaches across Guyana. Attorney-General & Minister of Legal Affairs Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, MP, and Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith, on Friday, convened a meeting to advance the resolution of land regularisation matters raised during the Presidential outreaches across Guyana

The meeting included representatives and technical officers from the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning, the Ministry of Legal Affairs, and the Central Housing and Planning Authority. These representatives will constitute the coordination team responsible for overseeing and advancing all aspects of the regularisation exercise. The exercise is intended to facilitate the issuance of transports or certificates of title, as applicable, to persons legitimately occupying lands within the affected communities, including co-operative societies or former co-operative societies. Regularisation has commenced in Devonshire Castle, Paradise, Jib, Westbury, and Walton Hall on the Essequibo Coast, and Friendship on the Pomeroon River; Melanie Damishana, Foulis, and Vigilance on the East Coast of Demerara, and several villages on the West Coast Berbice. Efforts are also under-

way for several co-operative societies along the East Bank corridor, including those falling within Kuru Kururu, Hauraruni, and Yarrowkabra. A clear roadmap and timeline have been established, with the relevant investigations expected to be concluded by the end of August, 2026. Public outreaches will form an essential part of the process, ensuring that residents are properly informed about the regularisation exercise, the steps to be undertaken and their respective responsibilities. The Government of Guyana is bearing the costs in relation to these undertakings. The Government of Guyana remains steadfast in its commitment to resolving outstanding land regularisation matters through a coordinated, transparent and timely process, thereby ensuring that affected residents obtain the legal recognition and documentation to which they are entitled. (DPI)

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

Gov’t to address Yarrowkabra farmers’ irrigation, drainage concerns

The government is moving to address irrigation and drainage challenges affecting farmers in Yarrowkabra and surrounding communities, with Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, committing to begin excavation of the area’s waterways within two weeks

THE government is moving to address irrigation and drainage challenges affecting farmers in Yarrowkabra and surrounding communities, with Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, committing to begin excavation of the area’s waterways within two weeks. Minister Mustapha

made the commitment on Saturday during an engagement with farmers in Yarrowkabra, where they had the opportunity to raise concerns about drainage and access to irrigation water. He said a technical team will first assess the condition of the waterways and determine the work required to improve farmers’ access to

water. “Every single creek in this area here, I will ensure that we do a survey, and we have a preliminary excavation. I will start it within two weeks. I will set a machine here for the entire highway, and every creek will be excavated,” the minister said. The technical team, comprising officials from

the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) and National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), is expected to return to the area within a week to conduct the assessment. Minister Mustapha noted that the exercise

will identify the creeks and tributaries that require cleaning. According to the minister, the exercise will also assess the irrigation needs of farmers across the highway communities. He acknowledged that the work will be undertaken progressively, given the number of waterways involved,

but assured farmers that the Government is committed to improving the drainage and irrigation network. Additionally, the agriculture minister noted that the intervention is to improve water availability for agricultural production, particularly amid ongoing dry conditions. (DPI)

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

Rising demand, maintenance, third-party damage driving causing power outages

A COMBINATION of rising electricity demand, scheduled maintenance, and damage to power infrastructure by third parties is contributing to the power outages being experienced across Guyana. This was according to Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar during a press conference on Friday. He said the electricity system is facing increased pressure from hotter weather, growing commercial and industrial activity, and a rapidly expanding customer base. Indar said the main reasons for the power outages are hot weather, increased demand from businesses and industries, and more households using the grid. He said the number of customers connected to the national grid has also increased significantly in recent years. “From the end of 2025 to the end of July, we have about 5,000 customers added this year,” Indar said. He added that the increase is even more significant when measured from 2020, when the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) customer base stood at approximately 204,000. He stated, “From 2020 to now, we have been managing the sector from the government side. We have seen the customer base of GPL go from 204,000 to 250,000. Forty-five thousand customers went onto the grid—a massive increase.” Indar said the unusually hot weather is further amplifying the pressure created by the growth in demand.

“So, what the weather is doing today is just maybe amplifying the problem more, as we have seen it in the numbers because of the heat,” he said. He also said that some outages are deliberately scheduled to facilitate necessary maintenance and upgrades to the electricity network. Indar described these as “forced outages”, which occur when power must be disconnected to allow crews to safely carry out work on the system. He pointed to several ongoing infrastructure projects requiring temporary interruptions, including the replacement of transformers, 104 kilometres of network extensions, 55 kilometres of conductor replacement and approximately 105 kilometres of transformer jumper and associated extension work. “When you change a transformer, we don't have live maintenance. We have to take off the power to do it. When we do network extension for 104 kilometres, we have to take off power to do it,” Indar added. The minister said such maintenance cannot be avoided because components deteriorate over time and must be replaced before they fail and cause larger disruptions. “Because you can't leave the grid to deteriorate,” Indar said, explaining that transformers and conductors can develop defects that ultimately cause lines to trip. He said GPL has been instructed to notify customers whenever scheduled maintenance will result in an outage,

including the expected start and end times. However, Indar said not all outages are within GPL’s control. He pointed to instances where cranes, excavators and other equipment come into contact with power lines, resulting in unexpected outages. He added, “But if somebody go with a

crane and jam the line, and somebody go on an excavator and jam the line, it causes outage.” Minister Indar said the government has tak-

en action against persons responsible for damaging electricity infrastructure, including imposing financial charges on them and pursuing

the matters through the courts. “We have done that because we are left with no other choice,” he noted.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

GOAL programme helps part-time worker graduate to pharmacy assistant

By Bebi Shafeah Oosman

A PART-TIME worker from Port Mourant, Corentyne, is preparing to take an exciting new step in her professional journey after successfully completing a Pharmacy Assistant course through the Government of Guyana’s Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) programme.

What once seemed like a distant possibility is now becoming a reality, as she prepares to transition from parttime employment into a new role as a pharmacy assistant. For Darshanie Deolall, the achievement represents much more than simply completing a course. It is an opportunity to build a career, develop new skills and create a more secure fu-

ture for herself and her family. Through the GOAL programme, she was able to access the training needed to pursue a field she never imagined would have been within her reach. With determination and a willingness to learn, she successfully completed the programme and is now looking forward to putting her knowledge and skills into

practice. Her journey is another example of how access to education and training can open new doors for ordinary Guyanese, providing opportunities for persons to improve their qualifications, pursue new careers and transform their lives. For Deolall, completing the Pharmacy Assistant programme has already begun to change the direction of her life,

Darshanie Deolall

opening the door to a career she once believed was beyond her reach. “I did the pharmacy assistant programme, and I finished last month and I’m working presently at the Ophthalmology Pharmacy right now,” she said. According to Deolall, prior to completing the programme, she worked at the hospital as a parttime worker for approximately three years. During that period, she never imagined that she would one day be able to pursue professional training and transition into a new role within the health sector. Without Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) subjects, Deolall said she had previously doubted whether opportunities for further education and career advancement would ever be available to her. She said: “I didn’t have CXC subjects and I always think I wouldn’t be able to do it… I always thought I would work in some shop and that’s it and I wouldn’t give up.” Despite those doubts, she remained hopeful and continued looking for opportunities to improve herself. When the pharmacy assistant programme became available, Deolall said she regularly searched online for information and eventually found the encouragement she needed from a close friend to take the chance.

She recalled: “When the programme come out, I always look up on the internet to always make sure that the programme was there. I had a good friend and he encouraged me to do it and I thought it would be difficult but I did it.” What initially appeared difficult soon became one of her greatest accomplishments. Deolall committed herself to the programme, successfully completed the course and is now graduating with an impressive 96 percent. Her achievement is particularly meaningful given the doubts she once had about her ability to pursue further studies. Today, she is not only equipped with new qualifications but also already gaining practical experience working at the Ophthalmology Pharmacy. Reflecting on her journey, Deolall encouraged other young people who may doubt their abilities or believe that their circumstances prevent them from pursuing greater opportunities to take a chance on themselves. She encouraged young persons to “never say you can’t, just do it.” For Deolall, the impact extends beyond gaining a qualification and securing a new professional opportunity. She said her family is extremely proud and happy for her, making the accomplishment even more meaningful.

More Guyanese secure scholarships to study in China

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

MORE Guyanese have secured scholarships to study and train in China, Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Yang Yang, said Friday, as the Chinese Embassy in

connected," the Ambassador said. She said developing talent is important, but making the best use of it is even more important, noting that talent is the foundation

eration and turn shared opportunities into real results," she said. The Ambassador congratulated all the scholarship recipients and expressed appreciation to the Government

Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Yang Yang (Sachin Persaud Photo)

Guyana celebrated the 2026 recipients of the China Government Scholarship. She revealed that several Guyanese have travelled to China this year for professional training in fields including agriculture, healthcare, diplomacy, trade, standardisation and digital governance. That growth, she said, is reflected in the launch of the Guyana– China Alumni Association earlier this year, which brings together Guyanese who have studied or trained in China, helping them stay connected, share experiences and build new partnerships. "From long-term degree programmes to short-term professional training and now a growing alumni network, our co-operation is becoming more comprehensive and better

of national strength and the driving force behind progress. Capital, technology and projects all matter; however, "it is people who put them to work — people with the knowledge, skills and experience to turn opportunity into progress," she said. With Guyana experiencing a period of rapid growth and transformation, and new opportunities continuing to emerge, Ambassador Yang said skilled professionals will play an increasingly important role in supporting economic diversification, strengthening key sectors, and ensuring the benefits of growth are widely shared. "Human resource co-operation is therefore a vital pillar of China–Guyana practical co-operation, which helps deepen our co-op-

of Guyana, educational institutions and other partners who have long supported China– Guyana co-operation in education and human resource development. Addressing the recipients directly, she said a new journey is about to begin, and encouraged them to make the most of the opportunity, devote themselves to their studies, and build expertise in their chosen fields. "At the same time, experience China beyond the classroom. Get to know the people and society. Observe, explore and think for yourselves. Most importantly, apply what you learn in China to Guyana's development. Let this experience broaden your horizons, deepen your knowledge, and inspire new ideas," she said.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

China’s cooperation powers ‘green’ future in Global South

- nation deepening partnerships through major energy projects in Latin America AS the world’s transition towards more sustainable development accelerates, China and Latin America are embracing broader and deeper energy cooperation, leveraging cutting-edge technological innovations to power a ‘green’ future for the Global South. From State Grid Corp of China’s Belo Monte Ultra High Voltage Direct Current Phase II transmission line in Brazil, to China Three Gorges Corp’s comprehensive digital modernisation of Brazil’s legacy Jupia and Ilha Solteira hydropower stations, and the Cauchari solar project in Argentina, jointly undertaken by Power Construction Corp of China and Shanghai Electric Power Construction Co, China and Latin America are jointly setting new benchmarks for cross-border clean energy integration. These flagship projects go beyond traditional capital investment, representing a deeper leverage of China’s technological standards and management expertise. By upgrading legacy infrastructure, Chinese enterprises are powering Latin America’s green transition for more secure regional grid stability.

This strategic momentum is guided by top-level diplomacy and shared visions. While addressing the opening ceremony of the fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC (Community of Latin American and Caribbean States) Forum last year, President Xi Jinping noted that by adapting to the overriding trend of economic globalization, China and Latin America have continuously deepened pragmatic cooperation in fields including trade, investment and infrastructure construction. Xi emphasized that both sides should strengthen the alignment of development strategies and advance high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, calling for efforts to deepen cooperation in traditional areas such as energy and minerals, while expanding cooperation in emerging sectors including clean energy. Such top-level commitment builds on a long-standing strategic alignment. As President Xi pointed out at the China-Latin American and Caribbean Countries Leaders’ Meeting in 2014, “China and Latin America are highly complementary in

economy and closely aligned in development strategies, granting us natural advantages in strengthening cooperation”. With such a strategic blueprint in sight, top Chinese energy regulators have emphasized the pivotal role of this cross-border synergy. Ren Jingdong, deputy director of the National Energy Administration, said that energy collaboration is a crucial component of pragmatic cooperation between China and Latin America, achieving remarkable results. “As China and Latin American countries have actively promoted energy transition and the development of renewables in recent years, new energy cooperation has emerged as a new highlight and a fresh driver for China-Latin America energy synergy,” Ren said. Guided by these high-level consensuses, Chinese enterprises have delivered monumental infrastructure breakthroughs on the ground. Brazil has grappled for decades with a severe structural challenge. While its northern Amazon basin boasts abundant hydroelectric resources, the vast ma-

jority of its industrial and residential power demand is concentrated in the southeast. The 2,534-kilometer Belo Monte Phase II project, independently invested, constructed and operated by State Grid Corp of China under a 30-year concession agreement, bridges this divide. As a vital “green artery”, it transmits massive volumes of hydropower directly to metropolitan load centers like Rio de Janeiro. “The megaproject ensures a highly stable and reliable power supply for Brazil’s core economic regions, successfully resolving the nation’s developmental bottleneck of spatial energy mismatch,” said Ye Xiaoning, a senior engineer at the State Grid Energy Research Institute. Ye emphasized that the project establishes a global paradigm for cross-regional clean energy transmission, proving the safety, maturity and global applicability of China’s ultra-high-voltage grid technologies. Beyond Brazil, China’s clean energy footprint is having a transformative impact across other extreme terrains in South America.

In Argentina, the Cauchari solar project stands as one of South America’s largest single photovoltaic power stations, and is the world’s highest-altitude solar park. Situated over 4,000 meters above sea level in the Andes Mountains, the 315-megawatt complex features more than 1.2 million solar panels. The landmark installation has ended Jujuy province’s long-standing reliance on power transmitted from other provinces, achieving local energy self-sufficiency. Furthermore, China’s unparalleled expertise in hydropower operation has breathed new life into Brazil’s legacy energy assets. Through a landmark $3.7 billion transaction establishing a 30-year concession, CTG Brasil officially took over the operation of the Jupia and Ilha Solteira hydropower stations, which feature a combined capacity of nearly 5 million kilowatts and meet the electricity needs of over 6 million people annually. Rather than merely managing the aging infrastructure, CTG initiated a monumental technical overhaul. By upgrading mechanical

equipment that had operated for nearly half a century into fully digital and intelligent monitoring systems across 12 generating units, CTG successfully performed a “heart transplant” on the legacy power hubs. Industry observers said these milestone projects are just the beginning. As more Latin American nations accelerate their ecological transition, Chinese enterprises are poised to deepen their engagement through localized manufacturing, joint research and green financing under the framework of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. As this Sino-Latin American energy synergy continues to unfold, it proves that China’s mature grid and generation solutions are essential enablers for emerging economies seeking to decarbonize at affordable costs while maintaining power stability and self-sufficiency, said Ye. “Together, China and Latin America are actively charting a shared, sustainable course for the global energy revolution and setting a powerful example for Global South cooperation,” he said. (China Daily)

How China’s grid powers through peak summer demand

(Xinhua) Each year, surging temperatures put China's power grid to the test at the height of summer. In recent weeks, sweltering heat and high humidity have gripped many megacities, driving electricity demand to record highs. While rolling blackouts in response to a summer crunch are not yet a distant memory,

power grid operators across China have nonetheless faced the 2026 summer peak with greater confidence, thanks to advances in securing power supplies and strengthening grid flexibility. Long-distance power transmission enabled by ultra-high-voltage (UHV) technology, energy storage and virtual power plants are

among the measures helping keep electricity supplies stable as demand soars. LONG-DISTANCE POWER TRANSMISSION The summer heat test is particularly tough for Chongqing, a megacity in southwest China with a population of more than 30 million, known as one of the TURN TO PAGE 28

An aerial drone photo taken on July 30, 2026 shows outgoing lines of the Yubei converter station of the Hami-Chongqing ±800 kV ultra-high voltage direct current transmission project, in southwest China’s Chongqing Municipality (Xinhua/Huang Wei)

CANU destroys nearly $430M worth of drugs

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

- as Guyana steps up narcotics fight

By Feona Morrison THE Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), on Saturday, destroyed narcotics with an estimated street value of approximately $429.8 million. The exercise forms part of the government’s ongoing efforts to disrupt the illegal drug trade and prevent Guyana from being used as a transshipment point by international trafficking organisations. The destruction exercise was held on Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown, and was described as the second such exercise for the year.

CANU Director James Singh

81 kilogrammes of cocaine, 1,161 kilogrammes of cannabis sativa (marijuana) and 314 grammes of methamphetamine. Speaking during the exercise, Adams said the destruction formed

“It is a long process. Obviously, the war on drugs, and Guyana being with the expansion that we've been having, it's now more prevalent,” Adams said. He commended CANU, particularly

CANU officers handle packages of seized narcotics ahead of Saturday’s drug destruction exercise on Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown

Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Dwayne Adams, revealed it involved

part of the government’s ongoing efforts to combat the narcotics trade, which he acknowledged is a longterm undertaking.

Director James Singh and his team, for their continued work in disrupting the drug trade. “We must commend James Singh and his

Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Dwayne Adams

team—they've been doing an excellent job,” Adams said. According to Adams, CANU conducts operations daily across the country based on intelligence gathered by the agency, result-

ious regions based on whatever intel they're able to gather to make these various arrests and busts.” With several months remaining in the year, Adams said the authorities remain focused on

to eradicate drugs in Guyana and a lot of parts of the world.” CANU Director Singh said the drugs destroyed on Saturday were linked to operations conducted over the past three years.

Seized narcotics are destroyed by fire during CANU’s drug destruction exercise

ing in arrests and drug seizures. He said, “As you know, every day there are various exercises. They're out in the var-

intensifying enforcement activity. “We're still on track for the rest of the year to have more busts and hopefully in the future

He said that the destruction had been delayed because of court proceedings and the need to complete the TURN TO PAGE 29

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

How China’s grid powers through...

FROM PAGE 26 country's "furnaces" due to its ruthlessly sultry summers. Keeping the city's air conditioners running and its automotive and electronics assembly lines humming through the summer peak puts enormous pressure on the local power grid. But a game-changer arrived in June last year, when the Hami-Chongqing transmission

line, a 2,260-kilometer energy artery using UHV technology, went into operation. This UHV line carries electricity generated in Hami, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, to Chongqing, with more than 70 percent of the power coming from clean energy sources. "This is our strongest source of confidence in coping with summer peak demand," said Shuai Hong,

deputy chief engineer of the power dispatch and control center of State Grid Chongqing Electric Power Company. Shuai said electricity purchased from outside the municipality accounts for about one-third of its total grid load this year. Specifically, the Hami-Chongqing line can transmit up to 6 million kilowatts at peak, equivalent to covering roughly one-fifth of the city's maximum power load.

UHV refers to power transmission technology with exceptionally high voltage levels that is well-suited to long-distance transmission due to its minimal energy loss. The Hami-Chongqing line is one of more than 40 UHV lines in China built to bridge a great divide in the country's energy landscape: China's energy resources are concentrated largely in the west, while the heaviest demand for

electricity is in its central and eastern regions. In past summers, scorching temperatures often forced industrial producers to scale back operations and businesses to curb electricity consumption. Chongqing Wang Cheng Technology Co., Ltd., an automotive and machinery components manufacturer, knows the strain all too well. Before gaining access to electricity generated in Xinjiang, the company's production was hampered by power shortages in July and August. To cope, it would frontload production to avoid peak-demand periods and split orders into smaller batches. This summer, however, more than 100 of the company's smart production lines ran at full capacity, while there was no need to sidestep peak demand periods or rush orders ahead of schedule. Instead, the pace of production could be planned and adjusted with greater flexibility, no longer dictated by seasonal availability of electricity. UHV technology is particularly efficient at transmitting green electricity from wind- and solar-rich regions to megacities. This summer, the national capital city of Beijing was supplied with green electricity through a "solar-wind relay." Pulsing through two UHV transmission lines, solar power generated in northwestern Qinghai Province helped meet Beijing's daytime demand, while wind power from turbines in northeastern Heilongjiang Province took over after nightfall. Renewable energy, notably, is playing an increasingly vital role in powering the national grid. By the end of 2025, renewable energy had accounted for more than 60 percent of China's total installed power generation capacity. A national plan for renewable energy development during the 15th Five-Year Plan period (20262030), released last month, aims to further strengthen renewable energy's role in supporting the power system. BALANCING EBB, FLOW Meeting the summer peak is not just about bringing in more power. The ability to balance supply and demand in real time matters just as much. In Shandong Province,

energy storage facilities have been running at full tilt, offering much-needed backup power to the grid. On Aug. 3, State Grid Shandong Electric Power Company organized a province-wide coordinated dispatch of energy storage facilities, as midday and evening peak-hour demand hit record highs. In the evening that day, 172 energy storage power stations across the province, including 73 stand-alone stations and 99 others built as supporting facilities to new energy projects, began discharging simultaneously. Their combined discharge capacity peaked at 11.98 million kilowatts. The maximum discharge capacity was equivalent to the grid power load of Jinan, the capital city of Shandong, helping power the entire province through evening peak hours, said Zhou Lei with the dispatch control center of State Grid Shandong Electric Power Company. Thanks to their rapid response and flexibility, new-type energy storage facilities have emerged as key resources for shaving peak loads and smoothing fluctuations in renewable power generation. For instance, they help the grid absorb surplus renewable electricity during the day and discharge it during evening peak periods. As of the end of July, Shandong had 14.41 million kilowatts of installed newtype energy storage capacity. Energy storage is only one side of the equation. Increasingly, the country's grid is turning to consumers themselves as a source of flexibility. Through vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, for example, electric vehicles can soak up surplus power during off-peak hours and return it to the grid when electricity demand rises. Since July 1, Wuhan, capital city of central China's Hubei Province, has been piloting a V2G pricing mechanism that allows eligible new energy vehicles and private charging piles to feed electricity back into the grid. By charging during off-peak hours and discharging during peak periods, vehicle owners can earn additional income while helping the grid shave peak loads.

CANU destroys nearly...

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

FROM PAGE 27

legal process. “These would have been operations that have been conducted over the last three years. Unfortunately, it's taken this long due to court proceedings, etc…,” Singh said. He said the cases had been completed and involved persons who had already been found guilty. Singh also highlighted the importance of co-operation between CANU and other national and international agencies, noting that the narcotics fight is not undertaken by CANU alone. He said the agency has received support from the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Defence Force, the Coast Guard, Customs and regional partners in carrying out its operations. Guyana’s geographic location, Singh said, continues to make the country attractive to international traffickers seeking to move narcotics from supplier countries to territories where demand is higher. “Guyana, because of its geographic location, is a transshipment point,” he said. According to Singh, increased enforcement

activity in other territories has also contributed to attempts to move narcotics through Guyana. “There is a push to move the drugs to other territories where there is more demand, better prices, and less risk,” he said. Singh disclosed that within the previous three weeks, CANU had conducted a major operation targeting a foreign drug-trafficking organisation that attempted to bring narcotics into Guyana for onward transshipment. He said, “Luckily, we were able to identify that group, conduct operations, and we were able to dismantle, place some of them before the court.” Singh related that the operation resulted in a successful conviction, while other members of the organisation were no longer in Guyana. He said the scale of that operation demonstrated the continued threat posed by international cartels attempting to use Guyana as a gateway for narcotics trafficking. The CANU director also acknowledged security concerns arising from the agency’s work, including threats against himself, his officers and other mem-

bers of the security forces involved in narcotics operations. IMPROVED EQUIPMENT He said improved equipment, with support from the Ministry of Home Affairs, is helping officers conduct their work more safely. Singh also credited international partners, including the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), for assisting Guyana in its efforts to

prevent the country from becoming a haven for international drug-trafficking organisations. “We are doing a lot more to help Guyana and to ensure that we do not become, you know, that haven, so to speak, for the cartels wishing to move their border through. Beyond interdiction and seizures, Singh said CANU is also placing greater emphasis on drug prevention and public education, par-

ticularly as concerns grow over so-called party drugs. H e s a i d C A N U ’s Drug Information Network is working with the Ministries of Health, Education and Human Services and Social Security, while the agency has produced informational booklets and conducts community outreach. Singh stated the outreach is not limited to communities where drug problems have already

emerged, but also targets areas considered to be at risk. He said drug use among young people can be influenced by peer pressure and social media, and stressed the need to educate them about the medical, social and legal consequences of drug use. “No one wants to have their future ruined because they're caught using drugs at an early age,” Singh noted.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

Hazlewood becomes ninth Australian to take 300 Test wickets

JOSH Hazlewood became the ninth Australia bowler to take 300 Test wickets after claiming his 14th career five-wicket haul in the first Test against Bangladesh in Darwin. He joins team-mates Nathan Lyon, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc in the Test300 club. They are the only Test attack in history to play together after claiming 300 wickets each. Of the nine Australians to have taken 300 Test wickets, only Glenn McGrath (21.64), Cummins (22.21) and Dennis Lillee (23.92) have done so at a better average than Hazlewood's 24.0

You don't really think about those sort of milestones when you're playing," Hazlewood told Kayo Sports after his 300th wicket. "I guess it's probably something you look back on at the end. "But I guess just to see the other names there, and I'm playing with three of them, so yeah, it's pretty cool." Hazlewood, 35, began the Test five wickets shy of 300 having only played six of Australia's last 14 Tests and none in the last 12 months, due to injury. There was a debate at the selection table as to whether he would be preferred for the opening Test

over Scott Boland. But he showed his class as the rest of Australia's bowlers struggled to break the resolve of Bangladesh's batters on a good batting surface. Hazlewood later acknowledged it had been hard work in his first long-form match since he was injured in the Sheffield Shield just before last season's Ashes. "I'm still standing, that's good," he said with a smile. "It's a pretty tough slog straight up. The more matches in a row you play, you sort of get better at those longer spells, longer time in the dirt. I probably lacked a little bit

of, I guess, bowling strength it felt towards the end of yesterday. But felt like I recovered pretty well and got the pace back up today. "Obviously people don't see it, we do a lot of work in those last four or five weeks to get some miles in the legs, which I think probably helped us out there." Hazlewood had a catch dropped in his opening over on day one by Lyon which proved costly with Tanzid Hasan going on to make 101 after getting the reprieve on 0. He broke a key partnership between Tanzid and Mominul Haque on the second morning when he had the lat-

ter caught behind attempting to drive him on the up. He returned again to strike with the second new ball, removing Najmul Hossain Shanto for 84 with a beauty from around the wicket. As Australia flagged in the heat on day three he broke Hasan Mahmud's stubborn resistance, trapping him lbw after having another lbw decision on Mehidy Miraz Hasan overturned on review earlier in the spell. Extra bounce again accounted for Taijul Islam as Cameron Green clutched a leading edge in the gully before returning after lunch on the third day to take his fifth

and reach 300 in his 26th over with Mehidy edging behind trying to drive on the up. He took his fourth Test six-wicket haul, and his first in nine years, when he had Ebadot Hossain caught behind to end the innings. "They hung in there tough," Hazlewood said. "Yeah, it's pretty hard work out there on that track. We probably stuck it out, we didn't let the runs flow too quickly there at the end. It was just that Bangladesh hung in there nice and tough, and it was tough to get wickets out there, so it was a good effort."(Cricinfo)

Raekwon Noel says local swimmers need better...

FROM BACK PAGE

game grow is to invest, but we have to have the resources from which these athletes can thrive,” said Noel, who was brought to Guyana when he was three months old. He said it starts with the facilities ...facilities make athletes who they are. “Getting the Aquatic Centre fixed and not just about getting it fixed, but getting it up to a world-class facility. “The 50-metre pool is down and has no water in it and creates a disadvantage for

swimmers, who have to train in a 25-metre pool and compete internationally in a 50-metre pool. “When I met with the sports ministers, that [fixing the pool] was the first thing we spoke about,” continued Noel, who attended Green Acres Primary School and then Christ Church Secondary School for one year, then to St Joseph for two years before moving to New Jersey. Noel also spoke about the importance of proper coaches in sports. “I grew up in North-East La Penitence in a very small apartment with my grandparents, mom and uncle. It wasn’t

ENGLISH RACING TIPS PONTEFRACT 10:45hrs Princeland 11:15hrs Quisana 11:45hrs Royal Fixation 12:15hrs High Degree 12:45hrs Fluorescence 13:15hrs Campeona SOUTHWELL 08:30hrs Wonder 09:00hrs Barleybrown 09:35hrs Palladas 10:10hrs Prosperity 10:40hrs Sovereign Ocean 11:10hrs Space Party 11:40hrs Yordan 12:10hrs Toptime 12:40hrs Ashj'aa SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS TURFFONTEIN 08:15hrs Northern European 08:50hrs One Tiger

the most luxurious life, but it always felt that way. I loved how we lived and never realised how many sacrifices my grandparents made when I was younger to take care of me. “My mom and dad were there, but financially my grandparents were at the forefront. “I don’t have any siblings on my mom’s side, but for my dad, I have an older brother and a younger sister. “I learned to swim at a local pool (Tower Hotel), I just used to splash around, and after a few sessions I knew I wanted to take it seriously.” added Noel, who attends Indiana University,

09:25hrs Zip Code 10:00hrs Itsnowornever 10:35hrs Star Magnolia IRISH RACING TIPS CURRAGH 08:35hrs Mr Montauk 09:10hrs The Pipeman 09:45hrs Neo Smart 10:20hrs Zarak Pasha 10:55hrs Thyer 11:25hrs A Boy Named Susie 11:55hrs Amor Supreme 12:25hrs Bold Optimist TRAMORE 08:45hrs Speed For Fun 09:20hrs Ina Mina 09:55hrs Lady Lena 10:30hrs La Note Verte 11:05hrs Watch The Weather 11:35hrs Presenting Lad 12:05hrs Village Dream

where he is studying Exercise Science. “My first competition locally was an independence meet where I loved every moment of it. Swimming wasn’t the greatest and still isn’t in the greatest position in Guyana, so there were a lot of situations where we had to navigate and fight in many different ways. “There used to be a lot of not-very-clear selection processes without clear rules from [the] GASA. It made swimming very difficult for me, especially as a young kid trying to stay motivated in the sport, so I left for New Jersey at 15. “I trained with a local club; the South Jersey Aquatic Club, who still play a major role in

my life. “I am doing well academically. Indiana schooling is really good, and I’m learning a lot, not just from school but [also] from the adults in my life. The thing about me is that I want to do so many things outside of swimming” explained Noel. At 18, Noel got a ‘wild card’ to the Olympics. “It felt great, but I had a bit of impostor syndrome because, for some reason, I felt like I didn’t deserve it, so I struggled with that mentally throughout the entire Olympic year.” Noel’s memorable moment was winning the five gold medals at the CARIFTA games in 2023. “In 2018, I went to that meet for the first time, and I

never thought I’d even make a final, let alone win, so I think I made my younger self very proud by establishing the feat in the 2023 CARIFTA Games” disclosed Noel. “I’ve had help from my mom, dad, grandparents’ family, and friends such as Dr Melissa Ifill. Mr Ramdeo Kumar has played a huge part in my career since 2023, while Dorado Speed Swim Club and the South Jersey Aquatic Club have played key roles; without these people, I would not be where I am right now. I try to come to Guyana at least once a year because my mom, uncle and grandparents live here,” concluded Noel.

T&T Women dethrone... FROM BACK PAGE

contributing 31 extras to Jamaica’s total. Warner ended with 2-13 and Weekes claimed 2-17. At Liberta Sports Ground: Guyana Women avoided finishing at the bottom of the table by defeating the Windward Islands

Women by 64 runs in a lopsided contest. Opener Jada Fraser and number three batter Briana Samaroo led the way for Guyana with both scoring 23 runs, but their total was boosted by the 30 extras gifted to them by their opponents as they posted 100

CiCKET QUIZ CORNER (Sunday, August 16, 2026) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD., 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Tim Seifert-125* (SKL vs ABF) (2) Gudakesh Motie-5/21 (GAW vs ABF) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who struck the most sixes in a single game in CPL 2025? (2) Who hit the most sixes in last season’s CPL? Answers in tomorrow’s issue.

for seven in 20 overs. Ammie Antoine (2-13) and Daisy Woods (2-16) were the Windward Islands’ best bowlers. The Windward Islands Women then produced an abysmal batting performance to be routed for a meagre 36 in 24 overs. So shocking was their batting display that the most runs scored by any batter was five, with the 17 extras conceded by Guyana being the largest single contributor to the total. The Windward Islands were 22 for three at one stage, before losing their last seven wickets for 14 runs in the space of 10 overs. Sowanna Booker was Guyana’s best bowler with the outstanding figures of 3-1, while Shenesa Thomas grabbed 3-9 and Christina Jackson 2-18.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

Eight GFF Elite League Clubs secure Concacaf Club Licences for 2026/2027 season

EIGHT clubs participating in the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Elite League have achieved a significant milestone in the professionalization and development of club football in Guyana, securing Concacaf Club Licences for the 2026/2027 season. Of the eight clubs, six have successfully met the Concacaf Domestic Club Administration Standards and have been awarded the Concacaf Domestic Club Licence, while two clubs have met the higher Regional Club Licensing Standard and have qualified for the Conc acaf Regional Club Licence. The achievement represents an important step forward for Guyana’s club football landscape and reflects the growing commitment of the GFF and its Elite League clubs to establishing stronger systems of governance, administration, sporting development and financial sustainability. The Concacaf Club Licensing Programme is a comprehensive framework designed to strengthen the professionalism, governance, sustainability and overall quality of football clubs across the region. It establishes clear minimum standards in key areas including sporting development, infrastructure, club administration and personnel, financial management, legal compliance and social responsibility.

The process has required clubs to examine and improve critical areas of their operations, including governance and decision-making structures, financial administration, legal compliance, sporting programmes, infrastructure, personnel and safeguarding. The eight successful clubs have demonstrated their willingness to embrace these standards and take meaningful steps towards a more professional approach to club management. GFF President Wayne Forde said the achievement fulfils an important objective established at the beginning of the 2025 Elite League season and should be viewed as the foundation for a much broader transformation of club football in Guyana. “I must commend the clubs for their dedication

and commitment throughout what was a very challenging process. I must also commend our administration staff for going above and beyond to Guyana Football Federation support the clubs. I share this proud moment with the clubs, but I want to remind them that this is not the end; rather, it is the beginning of cultivating a professional culture within their operations.” President Forde said the achievement must also be viewed within the wider context of the traditional reliance on volunteerism across Guyana’s football ecosystem. “At the club level, football in Guyana has been heavily dependent on volunteerism. Good people, with the best of intentions, heart and passion, continue to sacrifice for the good of

the game. We are grateful for that contribution. However, this has also allowed an amateur environment to prevail, and that environment is no longer aligned with the direction of the regional game .” He added that the GFF is now developing an ambitious programme to support clubs and Regional Associations as they begin the transition towards more professional management and administration. “The GFF is therefore working on an ambitious plan to resource clubs and Regional Associations and to help them take their first meaningful steps towards professionalizing the management and administration of the game. The progress we are celebrating today with the Elite League clubs must ultimately become the standard across Guyana.” Taking Club Licensing Across Guyana Building on the experience gained through the Elite League licensing process, the GFF will now move to introduce a Domestic Club Licensing Programme across all nine Regional Associations. The programme will be accompanied by meaningful incentives designed to encourage regional association clubs and their executive committees to strengthen governance, improve administrative systems, enhance financial management and cultivate a culture of professionalism and ac-

proof of his commitment to keeping the 211-member family together. “This is evidence that President Infantino prioritises strong unity among member associations and confederations above all else,” the GFA said. But the Caribbean body did not stop at applause. In a firm warning to any potential dissenters, the GFA made it clear that it will not “support or recognise any action by any member association or confederation that threatens

to circumvent or undermine the established institutional processes within FIFA.” The statement underscored the GFA’s unwavering stance on good governance, due process, and transparency, principles it called “fundamental and non-negotiable.” While the political rhetoric was pointed, the heart of Grenada’s message was one of deep gratitude. The GFA openly acknowledged the “unprecedented financial and technical support” provided

under Infantino’s tenure over the past decade, support that has transformed the island’s football landscape. From grassroots pitches to girls’ and women’s programmes, the GFA said the impact has been tangible, but the most visible change, they noted, has been on the international stage. Grenada’s national teams have travelled more extensively in recent years than ever before, competing in friendlies and tournaments that were once out of reach.

GFF General Secretary Pushpargha Chattopadhyay pictured with club reps While licensing is a requirement for clubs seeking to participate in Concacaf competitions, its broader purpose is to drive continuous improvement in club operations and development. Through the programme, Concacaf and its Member Associations are helping clubs build stronger structures, improve standards and create a more professional, sustainable and competitive football environment across the region. Over the past two years, the GFF, with the close support, technical guidance and expertise of Concacaf, has worked extensively alongside the Elite League clubs to strengthen their administrative and operational structures and guide them through the demanding club licensing process.

countability. The GFF believes that stronger clubs are fundamental to the long-term development of football in Guyana. Professional administration creates the platform from which clubs can better develop players and coaches, attract and manage resources, build stronger relationships with sponsors and communities, and ultimately compete at a higher level. The successful licensing of eight Elite League clubs therefore represents more than an administrative achievement. It is an important indication of the direction in which Guyana’s football is moving. The GFF extends its congratulations to all eight licensed clubs and recognizes the commitment of their executives, administrators, technical personnel and volunteers, as well as the work of the GFF Secretariat and the continued support and guidance provided by Concacaf. The federation remains committed to building a football ecosystem in which good governance, professional administration, sporting excellence and sustainable club development become the standard at every level of the game. Guyana’s football is moving forward and the professionalisation of its clubs is an important part of that journey.(GFF press release)

The GFA pointed to the rise of Cape Verde as a shining example of Infantino’s vision bearing fruit. The island nation’s historic run to the FIFA World Cup, they argued, proves that increased opportunities for smaller nations can deliver real, measurable results. “That is a compelling example of what can be achieved through greater opportunities and support for smaller footballing nations,” the statement read.

GFA backs Infantino after FIFA Forward u-turn, hails ‘unprecedented’ support for Caribbean football

ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada, (CMC) – The Grenada Football Association (GFA) has thrown its full weight behind FIFA President Gianni Infantino following his abrupt decision to scrap the proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise initiative, praising the move as a vital step towards preserving unity within world football’s governing body. In a statement released on Thursday, the GFA lauded Infantino for his “swift action” in withdrawing the

controversial proposal, which had raised concerns among member associations about potential centralisation of funding and decision-making. The GFA framed the president’s about face as clear

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

Bangladesh move closer to historic win in Australia

SPINNER Mehidy Hasan Miraz took the crucial wicket of Steve Smith as Bangladesh moved closer to a historic first Test victory in Australia on day three in Darwin. Smith, so often Australia's talisman, chipped a leading edge straight back to the off-spinner to depart for 44 and leave his side 122-4 in their second innings. Australia safely batted out the rest of the session but they face a tough task to save the match after closing on 161-4, still 67 runs behind Bangladesh. Their hopes of saving the first Test rest in the hands

of Cameron Green, who remained unbeaten on 43 and Alex Carey, on 19. Earlier Bangladesh added 75 to their overnight score of 351-6, with Miraz scoring 65 and Josh Hazlewood claiming 6-89, including his 300th Test wicket. Miraz guided the tail superbly for his 65 from 154 balls as the Bangladesh lower order frustrated Australia's tiring bowling attack. "The way we showed character and played the last two, three days I think is outstanding. So, really happy to see them play like this," Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto said.

After being dismissed for 426 shortly after lunch, Bangladesh seamer Hasan Mahmud stunned the hosts when he claimed both openers cheaply. The 26-year-old, who took a career-best 6-55 in the first innings, bowled Jake Weatherald for 0 and Travis Head for 17 as both players chopped on to their stumps. Marnus Labuschagne and Smith steadied the ship, before the former was bowled by Taijul Islam for 31. Smith batted sensibly for his 44 off 88 balls but his wicket left Bangladesh confident of victory as they roared in triumph on the Marrara

Bangladesh have never won a Test match in Australia Oval pitch. All-rounder Green's place in the side had been questioned prior to the series, but he defended well alongside wicketkeeper Carey as the pair reached the end of the day to give the hosts a glimmer of

hope going into day four. Australia have never lost a home Test to Bangladesh, only losing once to the Tigers in six previous Tests - at Mirpur in 2017. This is the first match in a two-Test series.

(Scores) First Test, Darwin (day three of five) Australia 198: (Smith 71; Mahmud 6-55) and 161-4 (Green 43*; Mahmud 2-33) Bangladesh 426: (Tanzid 101, Shanto 84, Miraz 65; Hazlewood 6-89)

First Test in Galle

Padikkal smashes ton at No 3, India eye big total

(Reuters) - India's Devdutt Padikkal struck his maiden Test hundred to underline his credentials for the number three slot and propelled the tourists to a commanding 288-2 in the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle on Saturday. India had been fretting over the one-down position after Sai Sudharsan, one of the seven batters tried in that position in the last two years, was ruled out with a toe injury. It opened the door for Padikkal, and the left-hander responded with a free-scoring 131 not out, putting India on course for a formida-

Devdutt Padikkal struck is maiden Test century on the opening day against Sri Lanka on the opening day against Sri Lanka in Galle

ble first-innings total on the opening day of the ⁠test at the Galle International Stadium. Opener KL Rahul made a composed 77 before retiring hurt. India got off to a fluent start after captain Shubman Gill opted to bat first on a track that promised plenty of runs. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rahul added 47 for the opening wicket before an almighty mix-up left both batters stranded at the non-striker's end. Jaiswal (32) was run out, but Rahul joined forces with Padikkal in a 150-run stand that kept Sri Lanka wicket-

less through the rain-delayed second session. Padikkal nearly offered a return catch to Sri Lanka captain Dhananjaya de Silva early ⁠ h is innings but was otherwise the epitome of elegance. Having opened his account with a boundary, the southpaw stepped out against Prabath Jayasuriya and lofted the left-arm spinner over his head for six. Padikkal's aggression appeared to rub off on Rahul, who gave Jayasuriya similar treatment in the spinner's next over. Padikkal brought up his ⁠half-century with a single off

Lahiru Kumara, while Rahul soon reached his own fifty as the pair milked the Sri Lanka attack with consummate ease. As the runs continued to flow, Rahul developed cramps and retired ⁠hurt after an assured knock featuring nine fours and a six. Gill, who made 16, struck two sweetly timed boundaries before throwing away his wicket. The right-hander charged at Jayasuriya, only t⁠ o sky a catch to mid-off. Rishabh Pant made a breezy unbeaten 27 and will look to continue his fine start when play resumes in India's 600th Test, and also the 50th Test at Galle.

Powell: FIBA eligibility rule disadvantaging Jamaica

KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC) – Chicago Bulls shooting guard Norman Powell strongly believes that a FIBA eligibility rule is preventing other top talented basketballers from representing Jamaica on the international stage. The 33-year-old Powell, who represented Jamaica earlier this year at the FIBA World Cup Qualifying, has maintained that other players from the NBA are interested in playing for the Caribbean island. However, under FIBA regulations a player born in another country who wishes to represent the nation of a parent

or grandparent must obtain citizenship or a passport from that country before turning 18. Powell believes Jamaica would be far more competitive if those players were eligible to represent the country, as it ruled out several potential suitors. “A lot of the guys that have Jamaican descent or heritage are being penalised for something that their parents didn’t do, or their grandparents moved away from Jamaica. “They didn’t know the national team was a thing, since it’s been 15 years since we (national team) first played a game. So, we’re trying to work

with FIBA to get it changed or altered,” Powell told FadeAway World in a recent interview. “It’s putting a damper on what Jamaica is able to do, with being able to compete at a very high level because a lot of these guys’ parents didn’t get their dual citizenship. That’s tough.” Powell said he was working with the Jamaica Basketball Association (JBA) and FIBA in an effort to have the rule amended. After a promising start in the FIBA Qualifiers, Jamaica faltered against The Bahamas and Canada and were eliminat-

Chicago Bulls shooting guard Norman Powell ed from contention. While Powell said the team

must assess its performance in the qualifiers and make the

necessary adjustments ahead of future campaigns, he said having access to some of the NBA talent linked to Jamaica could make a significant difference. “It’s about retooling and seeing what we need to do. We have a lot of interest from NBA guys; Devin Vassell, the Thompson twins (Amen and Ausar), the Champagnie brothers (Justin and Julian), Isaiah Stewart and a couple of other guys that want to play. “So it’s about figuring out how we can get as many NBA guys and top-talented guys that are a part of the team,” Powell said.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

Kings snatch victory from jaws of defeat in rain-hit CPL thriller

GROS ISLET, St Lucia, (CMC) – The Saint Lucia Kings clinched their second victory of the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League season in dramatic fashion, overcoming both the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons and treacherous weather conditions to win by three wickets with just two balls to spare. In a contest that ebbed and flowed like the tropical downpours that interrupted play, the Kings nearly squandered a commanding position before Joshua Bishop emerged as the unlikely hero, launching a massive six off the penultimate delivery to send the home crowd into raptures. Kings captain Roston Chase won the toss and opted to bowl first, a decision that

bore fruit almost immediately. Medium-pacer Matthew Forde produced a stunning double-wicket maiden in his second over, removing the dangerous Evin Lewis for one and Tim Robinson for a duck with consecutive deliveries. He struck again within the PowerPlay, inducing an edge from the big-hitting Rahkeem Cornwall just as the Falcons opener began to find his rhythm. At 44 for 3 after six overs, the visitors were already on the back foot and looking for some redemption. The Falcons’ misery was compounded spectacularly. Charith Asalanka pulled off a breathtaking catch to dismiss Moeen Ali, before a chaotic run-out saw Fabian Allen

The two Saint Lucia Kings batters that took them over the line depart without scoring. Just as Antigua looked to rebuild, the heavens opened with one over remaining in their innings, bringing an abrupt halt to their slide at 98-9 in the 19th over. After an hour-long delay, the ground staff produced a

Beckles says referees,’judges’ certification course crucial as Olympic cycles begin

THE Guyana Boxing Association(GBA) on Saturday at the National Racquet Centre commenced their Referees’ and Judges’ Certification Programme. The programme is being conducted by Trinidad and Tobago’s James Beckles, a three-star referee, referee assessor, and lead instructor with the New World Body, World Boxing. Beckles said that he had to make the transition from an official and technical standpoint from the International Boxing Association (IBA) to the World Boxing Organisation. ‘I was the lead evaluator to the chief evaluator and instructor at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, and that is the job I have been doing for World Boxing, not just at this tournament, but at several of their tournaments, being the lead instructor, just like at Glasgow (Commonwealth Games), where I performed the same task. Beckles, who is presently the Caribbean’s instructor for World Boxing, commended GBA for the initiative. The Guyana Boxing Association has taken it as their prerogative or main objective to ensure that not only do

they upgrade their present crop of officials, but they have also brought in a new set of officials, including those from the prison service and the army. He says this country has for years been at the forefront of training for officials, and it is a privilege to work along with the GBA to ensure that their priority is met with regard to boxing. “Guyana is among those who I would personally say have some of the better referees in the Caribbean. I would put them alongside Trinidad. It is wonderful to know nearly every year Guyana updates itself and is official with the current world standards, and this year it is no less. In fact, this is a most important year because the cycle starts for the LA Olympics.” Beckles says knowing the new rules will also prove beneficial for active boxers who are looking to qualify for future games and develop themselves. President of the GBA Steve Ninvalle says Guyanese athletes and the sports sector must match the pace at which the country is growing infrastructure-wise. “We at the executive of the Guyana Boxing Associ-

ation must make sure now that we have a little more resources so that the safety of our athletes and officials remains paramount. “That said, one of the main reasons that we have Mister Beckles here is to upgrade and pass on the new rules and regulations and statutes that world boxing has passed out.” Ninvalle said that the safety of boxers is in the hands of referees, and if they are not armed with the required rules and know how to apply them, then GBA could be an accessory before the fight.” He said officials must understand the privilege they have, as many other regional countries would be hard pressed for the chance to work with and learn from Beckles at this crucial junction. The event features close to 40 referee judges from across the nation. Beckles is here for the week and after the training, will oversee this year’s edition of the Winfield Brathwaite Caribbean Schoolboy Championships from August 20th to 22nd at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

miraculous recovery to get the pitch ready. The Kings were set a revised Duckworth-Lewis-Stern target of 84 from 15 overs, a chase that seemed straightforward enough. Chase opened the batting but fell early to Jayden Seales

for one, and then the rain returned after just one further delivery, forcing another stoppage. When play resumed, the target had been slashed further to 52 runs from just 8 overs. What should have been a cakewalk suddenly turned into a nightmare. The Falcons, sensing an unlikely comeback, bowled with renewed vigour. A succession of dot balls frustrated the Kings’ batters, and the pressure told. Joshua James replicated Forde’s earlier heroics, removing Asalanka and Darren Nedd off successive deliveries. When the Kings slumped to 21 for 6, the home crowd fell deathly silent as victory appeared to have slipped through their fingers. Matthew Forde, who had

destroyed the Falcons with the ball, played a crucial cameo of 11 runs to steady the ship. But it was Shadley van Schalkwyk’s towering maximum in the penultimate over that swung momentum back towards the home side, leaving the Kings needing 8 runs from the final over. With the pressure at its peak, Joshua Bishop stepped up to face James in the last over. A crisp drive through the covers eased the nerves, and then, with two balls remaining, Bishop latched onto a length delivery and deposited it over the ropes, sparking wild celebrations among the faithful at the Darren Sammy Cricket Ground. Bishop finished unbeaten on 12 and van Schalwyk 8, as the Kings finished on 54 for seven off 7.4 overs.

Martin Massiah appointed Head of eSports at the Guyana Football Federation

THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has appointed Martin Massiah as Head of eSports, reinforcing the federation’s commitment to digital football, youth empowerment and innovation. Massiah, who also serves as Director of Marketing and Commercial Strategy, played a leading role in laying the foundation for the GFF eSports division alongside Daniel Idal in 2025, following approval from GFF President Wayne Forde and the federation’s leadership. Since its launch, the programme has staged several domestic competitions, certified two FIFAe referees and expanded to include eFootball™ Mobile, eFootball™ Console and Rocket League™. During this period, Guyana recorded significant progress internationally. The national eFootball™ Mobile team reached a historic high of 14th in the FIFAe World Rankings in May 2026 and is currently ranked 18th

GFF’s Head of eSports Martin Massiah globally. Led by Christian Harris and Jeremiya Johnson, Guyana’s national squad, which also included Jaekwon Chase, Ricardo Sukra and Ronalhdo Sobers, secured the country’s historic qualification for the FIFAe Continental Championship North, Central America, and Caribbean by Concacaf in Mexico City, Mexico, from August 28 toAugust 30, 2026, marking another major step in Guyana’s emergence on the international eSports stage. Massiah has led the coordination of domestic com-

petitions and international participation while helping establish the governance, verification and operational systems required for Guyana to compete effectively within the FIFAe ecosystem. “I am grateful to President Wayne Forde, the GFF leadership, Daniel Idal and the FIFAe team for their continued support and belief in this vision,” Massiah said. “We are pioneering a new frontier for Guyana, one where technology, football and national pride come together to unlock the potential of our young people. Our ambition is to build something innovative, world-class and unmistakably Guyanese, proving that our youth can lead, compete and inspire on the global stage.” The appointment forms part of the GFF’s wider strategy to expand participation, create new pathways for young people and strengthen Guyana’s position within the global football and FIFAe ecosystem. (GFF Release)

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, August 16, 2026

Raekwon Noel says local swimmers need better facilities

By Sean Devers

TWENTY-YEAR-OLD Olympian Raekwon Noel recently captured three gold medals at the CAC Games in Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic and was given a hero’s welcome when the national swim team returned home. The youth, who was born in Brooklyn, New York, to Ron DeRyck and Ushaka Noel, had discussions with the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, and Minister within the Ministry of Sport, Steven Jacobs. Noel also met with the President of the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA), Godfrey Munroe and his team. “It went well. We are now on the trajectory to working with me as we move towards the 2028 Olympics in LA. “I’m hoping for the contin-

Raekwon Noel in the pool at one of his gold-medal events ued support that they have guaranteed in the meeting; so my job now is to focus on my passion, keep doing what I’m doing and not overthink situations much.” Informed the talented Noel. “I am enjoying it; it’s very busy, a lot of meetings with both

people I knew and new people who are going to be a part of my career in the future, which I’m super grateful for. “Next for me is to keep doing what I’m doing, to set higher goals and to keep aligned to what I need to do to stay mo-

Eccles, Rams, Airport and Mahdia storm into Lotto/Let’sBet T10 semi-finals DEFENDING zone champions Eccles All-Stars, Village Rams, Airport SVC, and Mahdia (Movements Family) surged into the final four of the East Bank/West Demerara Zone in the Lotto/Let’sBet One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast following a day of blistering knockout action across the region. At Goed Fortuin, Village Rams delivered a sublime performance, powering into the semi-finals with a comprehensive 73-run victory over Team Eastsyde. Imtyaz Ghani set the ground ablaze with a swashbuckling 85 off just 23 balls, supported by Andrew Lyght Jr's unbeaten 42 off 27 and Urshardeva Balgobin's 20, as Rams posted 159 for 3. In reply, Team Eastsyde folded for 87 for 8 in their 10 overs, with national footballer Curtez Kellman showcasing his versatility by taking 3 for 7 alongside Dhanesh Persaud’s 2 for 13. The defeat ended a dramatic campaign for Eastsyde, whose opener Otis George had earlier smashed an unbeaten 106 off 38 balls—laced with 13 sixes and two fours—alongside Ronald Hercules’ 25-ball 76 in an opening stand of 193 for 0 against Vintage All-Stars. Eccles All-Stars were equally ruthless at the Farm Ground, hammering Soesdyke XI by 120 runs. Troy Gonsalves launched eight sixes in a rapid 25-ball 64 to propel Eccles to 162 for 9 despite Orandy King's 4 for 30. Soesdyke’s chase crumbled instantly as Tyler Small’s clinical

Part of the action at the Meten-Meer-Zorg Community Centre Ground on Saturday spell of 4 for 5 and Deion Thomas' 2 for 13 bundled them out for just 42 in 9.5 overs, with number 11 Adrian Peters (13) the sole batter in double figures. At the Uitvlugt ground, Mahdia made light work of Hyde Park, chasing down 98 in 7.2 overs with eight wickets to spare. Andrew Gibson anchored the pursuit with an unbeaten 46 off 21 balls alongside Yeudistir Persaud (17*), after Suresh Dhani’s economical 1 for 3 kept Hyde Park to 97 for 4. Over at MMZ, Airport SVC held off Young Steppaz by 27 runs. Player of the match Shakiel Wong headlined the effort, slamming 46 off 20 balls to lift Airport to 138 for 3 before returning to claim 3 for 19, alongside Sunil Sarjoo’s 3 for 21, to restrict Young Steppaz to 111 for 9. The action shifts directly into the semi-finals today at Meten-Meer-Zorg, where Eccles meet Village Rams at 10:00hrs, followed by Airport taking on Mahdia at 12:00hrs, preceding the zonal final at 15:00hrs. The zone champions will

confirm their marquee date against the Berbice Zone champions, Grillmaster Sip N Play AllStars, at the national semi-finals. The regional runners-up will pocket G$200,000, courtesy of M.S. Roshandin Group of Companies, while the two losing semi-finalists will take home G$50,000 each, compliments of Camille’s Academy. Teams falling in Saturday afternoon’s quarter-final round received G$25,000 each, courtesy of Scoop Ride Inc. High stakes await the eventual zonal champion, who will walk away with G$500,000 and secure a marquee fixture against Berbice Zone champions Grillmaster Sip N Play All-Stars at the national semi-finals. With free public admission across all venues, the zone winners remain in contention for the grand G$2 million prize at the national finals on October 11 at the Anna Regina National Stadium, before the T10 caravan moves to the Essequibo Zone from August 22–23.

Raekwon Noel (third from left) with GOA President Godrey Munroe (fourth from left) and his team tivated and consistent. “I want to thank the Guyanese public and media for the support and encouragement this past month. I’m grateful for everything that I’ve got and I want the sport to grow more in Guyana. I feel this is just the

beginning of something special we need to build.” posited Noel Speaking on last Tuesday’s ‘Sean Devers Sports Watch,’ Noel said that to grow the sport and produce international-quality athletes, people with a pas-

sion for sports, are needed. “I am thankful to the GOA and what they have done for me. They are doing an amazing job for the sport, but they need to look at the broader perspective: how we are going to make the

TURN TO PAGE 32

T&T Women dethrone defending champions to capture Rising Stars title ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Trinidad and Tobago Women are the newly crowned champions of the CWI Rising Stars Under-19 Women’s Championship after defeating defending champions Barbados Women by six wickets in an exciting final here on Saturday. It was T&T’s second win in as many days over Barbados and ensured they finished the competition unbeaten by winning all six of their matches. Meanwhile, Jamaica Women thumped Leeward Islands Women by five wickets to finish third, while Guyana Women ended in fifth position after demolishing Windward Islands Women by 64 runs. At Coolidge Cricket Ground: Trinidad and Tobago Women showed that their preliminary round victory over Barbados Women was no fluke, as they strolled to a six-wicket win over them in the final here on Saturday. With the result, T&T dethroned the defending champions and captured their first CWI Rising Stars Under-19 Women’s Championship title since 2022. After being sent in to bat, Barbados produced a better batting performance this time around on their way to posting a competitive 104 for five in their 20 overs. T&T then survived some nervous moments before reaching their target, finishing on 105 for four with six balls to spare. In a much closer contest than their 84-run win in Friday’s

preliminary match, T&T lost captain Samara Ramnath early with just eight runs on the board. Amrita Ramtahal and Seraiah Kawalsingh looked to have set their team on course for a comfortable win during a 57run partnership for the second wicket. However, Zaniyah Bruce struck twice in quick succession to remove Kawalsingh for 27 off 41 balls and Ramtahal for the top score of 29 from 34 balls to see T&T slip to 79 for three in the 15th over. Brianna Harricharan struck three fours in her knock of 18 off 14 balls before she was run out by Bruce to set up an interesting finish with the score 93 for four in the 18th over. Barbados was still in with a chance of completing an unlikely victory when the equation came down to 11 runs needed from the final two overs. But Jannah Mohammed proved to be T&T’s hero by hitting Sabriel Headley for two boundaries in the penultimate over to bring an end to the match and spark wild celebrations among the Trinidadian camp. Bruce was Barbados’ best bowler with 2-18 from her four overs. Earlier, Bruce struck an unbeaten 30 off 25 balls and along with the tournament’s highest run scorer Eboni Brathwaite, who made 27, were the mainstay of Barbados’ total. However, once Sameera Naidoo dismissed Brathwaite to make the score 50 for three

Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limited, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 226-3243-9 (General); Editorial: 227-5204, 227-5216. Fax:227-5208

in the 10th over, Barbados lost some of its momentum. With T&T’s bowlers giving very little away, Barbados could only muster 39 runs from their final seven overs and were about 20 runs short of an ideal total. Naidoo claimed 3-18 from her four overs. At Coolidge Cricket Ground: Jamaica Women capped off a commendable performance in this year’s tournament by thrashing Leeward Islands Women by five wickets to finish in third position. The Leeward Islands were made to regret their decision to bat first after winning the toss, with Jamaica producing an impressive bowling performance to limit them to 69 for eight in their 20 overs. Only their captain Aaliyah Weekes, who made 18 and opener Zara Skerritt, who scored 12, made it into double figures, as all but one of the five bowlers used by Jamaica’s captain Adanya Baugh captured a wicket. Baugh finished with the best figures of 2-21. Despite facing a straightforward run chase, Jamaica found themselves in a spot of bother when Leanga Warner and Weekes grabbed two wickets apiece to leave them stumbling at 37 for five at one stage. But Baugh, who scored a crucial unbeaten 10, along with Nicoya Green, shared an unbroken partnership of 33 runs to see their side over the line. The Leeward Islands also did themselves no favours by

TURN TO PAGE 32

| SUNDAY, AUGUST 16 ,2026