A high-level site visit was conducted on Wednesday, at the roundabout currently under construction, at the intersection of the new Demerara River Bridge and Heroes Highway on the East Bank of Demerara. Minister of Housing, Collin Croal, joined Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill; Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Madanlall Ramraj and a technical team, on identifying the most suitable alignment for a new connector road linking the roundabout to the Ogle–Eccles Highway, which is now expected to be extended to Providence, East Bank Demerara. This road will significantly improve accessibility between Region Three and the East Bank Demerara (EBD) and East Coast Demerara (ECD) of Region Four, while reducing traffic congestion (Ministry of Housing photos)
Government eyes new landfill sites, innovative waste solutions
GUYANA is facing a growing challenge in solid waste management as existing landfill sites across the country have exceeded their capacity.
In response, the government is taking urgent steps to identify new locations for modern waste disposal facilities, while also exploring innovative strategies to transform waste into value-added resources.
Speaking during a press conference on Tuesday, President Dr. Irfaan Ali highlighted the issue, pointing to widespread concerns in communities.
“One of the main issues in communities is that of solid waste management, garbage disposal, and landfill sites,” the President said.
Currently, there are 14 landfill sites operating across the country, but all have reached or surpassed their limit.
“As you know, we have 14 landfill sites across the country. They have all outgrown their capacity,” Dr. Ali stated.
The government is pushing for the development of new landfill sites, with a focus on modernisation and environmental sustainability.
“Therefore, we need the
development of new sites, the identification of land, getting the environmental permits and clearance, and then filling out these sites in a modern way, looking at value creation,” the President explained.
Dr. Ali reiterated the government’s commitment to not only expand capacity but also innovate waste management.
“ We have a number of proposals that the team will be examining, looking where these new facilities are needed, with emphasis on regions two, seven, ten, and also four and six.”
In addition to infrastructure development, the President stressed the importance of public awareness and behavioural change in addressing sanitation challenges.
“Within the next three to four weeks, we’ll have a comprehensive report and a strategy on how we tackle this issue of sanitation, garbage disposal. Important to this also, and specific emphasis must be on public education, looking at public spaces, markets, and building a communication strategy that will change mindset, that will change behaviour, and allow us to act with responsibility when it comes to protecting our environment.”
The forthcoming strategy is expected to outline a holistic approach to waste management, combining policy reform, public engagement, and technological advancement as Guyana seeks to secure a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Earlier this week, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand visited the Haags Bosch sanitary landfill site, where she too addressed the matter of solid waste management, describing it as a major area that is a “big concern” for residents across the country.
Guyana’s development has resulted in solid waste
surroundings.
Community sanitation and solid waste management remain one of the most pressing challenges affecting Guyana.
That is why the government has made significant improvements in the proper disposal of solid waste through a strategy that aims to effectively manage waste disposal, particularly at landfills.
investment of $65 million. The construction of the Landfill Gas Management System amounted to $42 million, which serves as an essential component for environmental and safety features due to the natural byproduct of organic materials at landfills.
increasing from 400 tonnes to 1,200 tonnes per day, the minister said, adding that the number of trucks dumping at the site has also increased from 100 to 300-400.
“We have to now increase our capacity of management,” Manickchand said, noting that efforts are underway to enhance management systems, particularly in collaboration with Neighbourhood Democratic Councils.
In addition to waste management strategies, the minister pointed to plans to partner with First Lady Arya Ali on her beautification project, which aims to enhance public spaces and promote cleaner
The government has added a number of landfills designed to protect waste from polluting the environment, as well as several other projects to properly manage the disposal of solid waste.
An estimated $52 million was invested in the Blairmont Landfill site, and it is designed to protect residents of Kildonan, Corentyne.
The investment saw a new access road, which allows residents of the Kildonan Corentyne easy access to the landfill. That investment was $13.8 million. Another landfill at Charity in Region Two was constructed for $19 million.
An access bridge to another landfill was constructed for residents in Zorg-en-Hoop Canal, costing $6.246 million
Constructing stormwater ponds that hold rainwater to stop flooding and reduce road erosion saw a further
Further, the preparation of a temporary area to receive waste at Zorg-En-Vlygt in Region Two amounted to $112 million, and in Region Seven, another $17.835 million was invested in a similar area.
These temporary areas serve to minimise pollution, allowing for proper storage and the prevention of waste from contaminating the air, soil, and water. Meanwhile, the landfills at Nerney, Region Six, which cost $13.9 million, and in Bon Success, Region Nine, costing another $19.6 million, were upgraded. The closure of the Esplanade in New Amsterdam, which posed potential health hazards due to its proximity to residents in the area, cost $13.6 million.
Furthermore, the Lima dumpsite in Region Two was shuttered, and a new facility was added for $1.2 million.
The Kara Kara dumpsite in Region Ten was upgraded for $39 million.
President Ali advances multi-crop model, encourages citrus alongside sugarcane
–– Skeldon farmers urged to embrace science-driven, market-oriented agriculture
By Bebi Shafeah Oosman
PRESIDENT Irfaan Ali has called on private cane farmers in the Skeldon, Upper Corentyne area to significantly ramp up agricultural production and fully utilise their land holdings as he cautioned that ongoing government investments in infrastructure must be matched by tangible increases in productivity.
Speaking directly to a gathering of farmers and GuySuCo officials on Wednesday, President Ali emphasised the importance of linking state support to results on the ground.
“We can’t have people holding on to land while the government is making heavy investments in drainage, irrigation, and infrastructure. All of this must be tied to production and productivity. That is how we expand business opportunities, create jobs, and grow the economy,” he said.
During his address, the President laid out an ambitious vision for a multi-crop agricultural model where traditional sugarcane cultivation can co-exist with high-value crops such as citrus. He said this transition would be guided by scientific planning, supported by modern technology, and driven by market needs.
“We want this to be science-driven, market-driven and profitable. Whatever we do must make sense in the long term,” the President stated.
To support this transformation, soil samples are expected to be collected in the coming days and sent for analysis to determine the most suitable crops for various sections of farmland. This data-driven approach will help farmers make informed decisions and increase their chances of success in a competitive market.
In addition, the government is developing a dedicated website to provide real-time access to critical data for the agriculture sector.
President Irfaan Ali, flanked by Cabinet Ministers, called on private cane farmers in the Skeldon area to increase agricultural output and fully utilise their land, stressing that government investments in drainage, irrigation, and infrastructure must be reflected in measurable production gains
President Ali also disclosed that discussions are underway with investors from the Dominican Republic and Brazil’s Roraima State to facilitate knowledge exchange and introduce advanced agricultural technologies. These partnerships aim to enhance the technical capacity of local farmers and help them transition to more productive, modernised farming methods. A significant opportunity
improvement, and also improvement in the field must continue at even more rapid pace for this sector to realise greater potential and move towards a more sustainable and manageable operation,” he explained.
He noted that private cane farmers control between 10,000 to 12,000 hectares of land and commended those who have already begun diversifying. He cited one farmer managing 400 acres of citrus as an example of the type of initiative that aligns with the government’s vision.
“I had some discussions and I’m very impressed with some of the farmers [and what they are already doing],” the President said.
Still, he cautioned that government investments including those in drainage, irrigation, and roads must be justified by increased production.
“We can’t have investments being made and a means of production, which is land, is being idle, then we are not maximising the use of the factors of production in building the economy, expanding business opportunities, and creating jobs.”
President Ali further said that once the scientific assessments are completed, a core group of farmers will work alongside the Ministry of Agriculture to chart a plan toward large-scale production. This plan will involve identifying key crops and beginning full-scale planting in selected areas within a year.
“We are doing everything scientifically… So we will be building up your website for this development, all of the innovation will be placed on the website so all the farmers can see it, investors can see it,” he said.
on the horizon is the proposed establishment of a juice processing plant by Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) in Skeldon. The President revealed that the facility could become operational within eight to twelve months, but emphasised that it depends on farmers’ commitment to cultivating citrus at scale.
ment for agricultural success.
Reiterating his government’s commitment to the sector, President Ali highlighted the state’s role in creating an enabling environ-
“Of course, sugar will remain an important aspect of our requirement and our agricultural product base. We are fully aware that the process of mechanisation and the process of system
Looking ahead, President Ali stressed the need to tie any future agricultural expansion to existing market access and to work closely with investors who can help open new markets for locally produced crops.
“Whatever is done must be linked to markets, and we have to engage those who have access to the markets,” he concluded.
Ministers inspect new connector road linking Demerara River Bridge to EBD, ECD
A HIGH-LEVEL site visit was conducted on Wednesday at the roundabout under construction at the intersection of the new Demerara River Bridge and Heroes Highway on the East Bank of Demerara.
The visit was led by Housing Minister, Collin Croal, alongside Public Works Minister, Bishop
Juan Edghill, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Madanlall Ramraj, and a technical team including Central Housing and Planning Authority officials Gladwin Charles and Intakab Indarjeet.
The delegation assessed the alignment for a new connector road linking the roundabout to the Ogle–
Eccles Highway, which is slated for extension to Providence, East Bank Demerara.
The proposed route aims to enhance accessibility between Region Three and the East Bank Demerara (EBD) and East Coast Demerara (ECD) of Region Four, while alleviating traffic congestion in the area.
Minister Croal highlight-
ed the need to balance infrastructure development with community impact. “[The] desirable outcome we would like for us to have is the least disruption to residents and to look at the best possible route,” he stated.
Minister Edghill underscored the strategic importance of the initiative as part of the government’s broader
infrastructure and connectivity programme championed by President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali. He noted that the proposed link will span approximately two kilometers, with careful planning to minimise disruption to surrounding areas.
Upon completion, the project will establish three key connections between
the Ogle–Providence Road and Heroes Highway: via Aubrey Barker Road, Haags Bosch Road (Eccles), and the newly proposed connector road.
The development is expected to significantly improve mobility, reduce travel times, and strengthen the overall transportation network in the region.
Housing Minister, Collin Croal, alongside Public Works Minister, Bishop Juan Edghill, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Madanlall Ramraj, and a technical team, including Central Housing and Planning Authority officials Gladwin Charles and Intakab Indarjeet work on measures to improve mobility, reduce travel times, and strengthen the overall transportation network in the region
Education Ministry, GDF partner to roll out President Ali’s vision for school-based physical education
THE Ministry of Education has joined forces with the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) to advance President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s directive for every public school to dedicate Friday afternoons to physical education, sports, and recreation.
On Wednesday, Minister of Education, Sonia Parag, led a high-level delegation in discussions with senior GDF officers to chart the path for implementing the nationwide programme.
The Ministry’s team included Chief Education Officer, Saddam Hussain; Adviser to the Minister (Tertiary Education Reform) Dr. Kofi Dalrymple; Parliamentary Secretary and Chief Planning Officer Mischka White-Griffith; Deputy Chief Education Officer (Admin) Tiffany Harvey and Head of the Unit of Allied Arts, Nicholas Fraser.
They were joined by Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, Chief of Defence Staff, along with senior military officials, Colonel Kenlloyd Roberts, Lieutenant Colonel Julian Archer, and Captain Kevveon Lewis.
The collaboration is expected to provide the organisational and training framework needed to ensure the initiative reaches schools in every region of Guyana.
President Ali has underscored that the programme is about much more than recreation. By dedicating weekly time to physical activity, the government aims to nurture healthier lifestyles, reduce screen dependency, and instill values such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience in students—qualities he described as essential to building future leaders.
Minister Parag reaf -
firmed the Ministry’s commitment to translating this vision into reality, noting that investments are already being made in recreational facilities, tarmacs, and training for physical education teachers.
“The partnership with the GDF ensures that we can deliver a structured, well-supported programme that gives every child access to meaningful physical development opportunities,” she said.
This joint effort reflects the government’s broader goal of creating an education system that produces well-rounded citizens, equipped not only with academic knowledge, but with the values, habits, and fitness to contribute meaningfully to Guyana’s continued growth and development.
Transforming Georgetown: THAG backs President
Ali’s vision for sustainable ‘Garden City’
GUYANA’S capital city is poised for a transformation that could redefine urban life for residents and visitors alike.
On Tuesday, 16th September 2025, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali unveiled his vision to turn Georgetown into a sustainable “Garden City,” an initiative that seeks to balance heritage preservation with modern development. The announcement has been warmly received by the Tourism & Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), which sees the plan as a major step toward enhancing the city’s appeal and livability.
Mitra Ramkumar, President of THAG, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, noting that the proposed projects will touch key aspects of urban life.
“The priorities outlined by President Ali—waste management, flood resilience, heritage protection, and modern transport systems—will significantly enhance Georgetown’s appeal to both locals and visitors,” he said. The modernisation plans include revamping the Stabroek waterfront and market, improving tourism-focused drainage canals, and restoring urban landscapes, all aimed at creating a city that is not only visually appealing but also functionally modern.
The Lamaha Railway Courtyard project, highlighted by THAG, is another example of the initiative’s potential to revive historical areas while contributing to a sustainable urban environment. By revitalising this significant heritage site, the city stands to benefit both culturally and economically, particularly in tourism development.
Yet, THAG emphasises that infrastructure alone will
not define the city’s success. Ramkumar urged that the transformation also prioritises social inclusivity. “A clean, safe, and welcoming city for all is paramount. It is crucial that strategies addressing the homeless, mentally ill, and vagrants are integrated into the broader urban renewal plan,” he said.
By incorporating programmes for care, rehabilitation, and reintegration, Georgetown’s transformation can ensure that the benefits of modernisation are shared equitably across all segments of society.
THAG’s support reflects its broader goal of fostering a sustainable tourism industry that works hand-in-hand with urban development.
“We remain committed to collaborating with the government and other stakeholders to ensure that Georgetown becomes a city where every Guyanese citizen and visitor can thrive and enjoy,” Ramkumar added.
Police decry bail decision in corrosive attack case amid rising violence against women
THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) has voiced strong disappointment following a decision by Magistrate Faith McGusty to grant bail to Keron Daniels, who has been charged with throwing corrosive fluid with intent against two women, despite objections from prosecutors and the serious condition of one of the victims.
Daniels first appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on September 16, where he was remanded to prison for one day. However, at his subsequent appearance on September 17, Magistrate McGusty granted him bail in the sum of $500,000.
Prosecutors had strongly objected to bail, noting that police were in possession of a videotaped confession from the accused. They also highlighted the grave injuries sustained by one of the victims, Jilicia Leitch, who remains hospitalised at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). Medical officials confirmed that Leitch has lost sight in one eye and suffered severe facial disfigurement.
The other victim, Nirmala
Sukraj, was also injured in the attack. Police revealed that Daniels and Leitch had been in a relationship marked by repeated conflict. From her hospital bed, Leitch made a public plea for justice.
The GPF, in a strongly worded statement, lamented that despite the widespread prevalence of violence against women in Guyana, the seriousness of such offences is not always fully reflected in bail decisions. The Force warned of the high risk of repeat offences, particularly when alleged perpetrators continue to have access to their victims.
“Notwithstanding these setbacks, the Guyana Police Force pledges to continue making every possible effort to reduce, if not wholly eradicate, these heinous acts of violence being committed so wantonly against the women in our society,” the statement concluded.
The case has reignited debate over the justice system’s handling of gender-based violence, with advocates pressing for stricter measures to protect victims and hold offenders accountable.
The Minister of Education, Sonia Parag, led a high-level delegation in discussions with senior GDF officers to chart the path for implementing the nationwide programme
President of THAG, Mitra Ramkumar
Guyana’s Digital Leap
GUYANA is on the cusp of a sweeping digital transformation. Within weeks, the government will begin the distribution of electronic identification cards, setting in motion a system that promises to redefine how citizens interact with both the state and the private sector.
The initiative, as outlined by President Dr. Irfaan Ali, is not merely about new ID cards, it represents the foundation of a comprehensive strategy to modernise governance, strengthen national security, and create a more efficient service delivery system.
The potential is undeniable. A tamper-proof digital ID, biometric-based verification, and decentralised service centres could eliminate some of the most frustrating inefficiencies that citizens face daily: long queues for passports, delays in securing health records, and endless trips to Georgetown to access essential services.
Already, the establishment of electronic health records at the Georgetown Public
Hospital and the pilot online appointment system at the Festival City Polyclinic point toward a future where patients spend less time waiting and more time receiving care.
The government’s wider agenda is equally ambitious. Plans to digitise every government service by mid-2026, create an online passport application portal, and issue e-passports aligned with international aviation standards will not only save time but also enhance Guyana’s global standing.
The appointment of a Chief Technology Officer to oversee the process, backed by the National Data Management Authority, signals a seriousness of intent and an understanding that this transformation requires strong technical leadership.
Yet, as with all revolutions—digital or otherwise—execution will be the true test. The move to a digital society brings with it real challenges.
Data privacy and cybersecurity must be non-negotiable priorities. Citizens need
assurance that their personal information will not be misused, mishandled, or compromised.
Too often, governments globally have faltered not in ambition but in implementation, leaving citizens frustrated and distrustful of systems meant to empower them.
Equally important is inclusivity. While digital services offer convenience, Guyana must ensure that no citizen, particularly those in remote hinterland regions or those without reliable internet access, is left behind.
Building service centres in every region is a step in the right direction, but public education and awareness campaigns must be sustained to build confidence among citizens unfamiliar with technology.
The digital shift also has economic implications. By creating a framework for fintech growth and encouraging wider banking access, the initiative could expand financial inclusion and stimulate private-sec-
tor innovation.
But it also places responsibility on regulators to keep pace with technological advances to protect consumers and maintain transparency.
President Ali has framed this transformation as a bold leap into a modern digital economy. If implemented with care, it has the power to redefine governance and improve the everyday lives of citizens, from faster access to documents to better healthcare delivery.
But if mishandled, it risks becoming another layer of bureaucracy cloaked in modern technology.
Guyana’s digital future is here.
The question now is whether it will be a tool of empowerment and efficiency, or whether gaps in planning, security, and inclusivity will limit its potential.
Citizens deserve nothing less than a digital system that is secure, accessible, and truly transformative.
On the contradictions of a rising standard of living
Dear Editor,
DEVELOPMENT economists have long warned of the danger of “growth without development.”
The IMF and the World Bank have both observed in global reports that rising GDP or higher incomes can, without matching norms and institutions, produce new forms of disorder and discord in daily life. Guyana now confronts precisely this dilemma.
The achievements are considerable. Since 2020, the country has recorded among the fastest economic growth rates in the world. Disposable income has risen sharply, aided by tax reforms, increases in pensions and social assistance, and major investments in housing, health, and education. Infrastructural works, school cash-grant programmes, and expanded job opportunities demonstrate a genuine effort by this government to make prosperity inclusive.
Yet alongside these gains lie troubling
contradictions. In residential areas, bars and loud- music venues have multiplied. Patrons frequently spill into the streets, speaking loudly, using vulgarities, parking wherever they please, and in many cases urinating along drains and parapets. Regulations that apply to the inside of establishments rarely extend to the disorder and nuisance outside.
Waste is another stark sign. Beer bottles, garbage-filled plastic bags, discarded washing machines, sofas, mattresses, and other household refuse are routinely dumped into canals, trenches, and on public lands. The coastlines and beaches, central to Guyana’s identity as a coastal society, are increasingly treated as dumping grounds and rendered unusable.
In short, rising consumption without adequate civic norms or enforcement has turned many shared spaces into sites of degradation and even danger.
On the roads, the expansion of vehicle ownership has brought speed, congestion, and recklessness to village streets, making them
unsafe for pedestrians. In several areas, leaving one’s home has become an encounter with noise, waste, and the risk of being struck by a passing vehicle, unimpeded by speed bumps.
These are not minor inconveniences; they are the daily realities of thousands of Guyanese people. They reveal the contradiction of the present moment: while household incomes rise, the quality of public life is simultaneously declining in many important ways. Private prosperity, unrestrained by strong institutions, is undermining the collective experience and the good work this government has done in its first term.
This must therefore be treated as a matter of national urgency at the highest level. It is what makes the difference between ‘growth’ and ‘development.’ Enforcement requires properly trained, properly paid, and empowered officials who can act on the spot. Public civic education campaigns, clear regulations, and investment in institutional capacity are as vital to development as roads, schools,
or hospitals. Without them, growth risks becoming hollow, with the economy doing well while the people do poorly.
The government should not let the remarkable progress of the past five years be undone by the actions of those who, in their pursuit of more wealth and enjoyment, destroy the very fabric of community life. The gains of higher incomes, better housing, and new infrastructure must be matched by protection of the public sphere, or else Guyana risks its own version of the resource curse: growth in numbers, decline in lived quality.
Guyana’s present moment echoes that paradox. Standards may be rising, but lived experiences for many are being degraded in many ways.
Overcoming this contradiction is the true test of development.
Sincerely Dr Walter H Persaud
The immediate danger of Azruddin Mohamed as Opposition Leader
Dear Editor,
THE very idea of Azruddin Mohamed becoming Leader of the Opposition should send shockwaves through this nation.
This is not just another political development, it will be a direct threat to our democracy, our reputation abroad, and the very integrity of Parliament itself.
The office of Opposition Leader is a constitutional pillar meant to hold government accountable, safeguard the people’s interests, and preserve balance in our democracy. It is not a ceremonial title.
Yet Mohamed’s anticipated rise is tainted
by shadows too dark to ignore. His family remains under U.S. sanctions for tax evasion and gold under-declaration, serious charges that carry the stench of corruption. These are not mere allegations whispered on the street; they are official, international sanctions that should disqualify, not elevate. To hand such a man the second-highest political office in the land would be reckless and dangerous. Let us be brutally honest: this is not leadership. This is money attempting to purchase legitimacy and influence.
If Mohamed is allowed to ascend, Guyana will be sending a chilling message
to the world that corruption is not punished here but rewarded with political power.
At a time when Guyana is emerging as an energy powerhouse and our global profile is rising, such a move would cripple investor confidence, invite international embarrassment, and undermine the credibility of every institution we rely upon to secure our future.
What would this say to our young people, struggling to build honest lives in a country where the rules already seem stacked against them? What would it say to our public servants, our professionals, our entrepreneurs, who try
Amerindian Affairs committed to cultural preservation, youth empowerment
HIGH on the government’s agenda is a commitment to promoting indigenous culture by advancing youth involvement as part of the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs’ vision for the next five years.
During an address at the opening ceremony of the Amerindian Art Exhibition and Fashion Show, Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Sarah Browne, in a deep moment of reflection and acknowledgement, stated that she remains proud of her Indigenous heritage, emphasising that her new role as Minister is an opportunity to give a voice to Indigenous People across the country.
In alignment with this year’s theme for Amerindian Heritage Month – Igniting Unity, Celebrating Progress and Advancing Culture -- she underscores the ministry’s commitment to inclusive, national development.
Minister Browne noted that youth involvement and cultural preservation remain the top priorities throughout her tenure.
“Our culture is who we are as a people. We have a really unique culture, and
The Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Sarah Browne, engaging with young artist’s part of the Art Exhibition at the Casellani House
we must be proud of it,” She continued, “but we must take some time to work on the other aspects……. We are the future, and we must keep our culture alive.”
As part of her immediate plans, Minister Browne announced that she will meet with young people to hear their ideas and aspirations for the future.
These engagements, she stated, will aid in charting a collective vision for cultural revival through programmes and initiatives designed to preserve Indigenous traditions while creating new opportunities for young people.
“I can’t do it alone. I know that there are many of you who are rooting for a positive [outcome], who want to be involved, and you’re welcome. It’s our ministry. We all have a space there. My doors will always be open,” she said.
Minister Browne closed with a call for unity and collaborative efforts, reminding everyone that “In unity there is strength, and together we must work because we have a common goal that’s not just in culture, but in advancing our development at every level.” (DPI)
to walk the straight path? It would tell them that integrity does not matter, that the system bends to wealth, and that political power is not earned but bought.
To those Members of Parliament who remain silent: your silence will not protect you. When Guyanese lose faith in Parliament because you allowed questionable influence to triumph, you will bear the blame. History will not forgive complicity. Parliamentarians must ask themselves, are you prepared to drag the institution you serve into disgrace? Are you ready to gamble the nation’s democratic credibility for
the ambitions of one man whose record is clouded in scandal?
This is not about party politics. This is about the dignity of our Republic.
Being led by Azruddin Mohamed in Parliament who is under sanctions and suspicion, the credibility of our democratic institutions will collapse from within.
We risk entrenching a dangerous precedent where political office becomes a sanctuary for the tainted. Once that line is crossed, the damage will not be easily undone.
Guyana cannot afford this. Opposition leadership must be earned through integrity, vision, and a
commitment to the nation, not through questionable riches or backroom deals. Anything less would not just undermine Parliament, but betray the very soul of this nation.
The people are watching. The region is watching. The world is watching. If Parliament allows Mohamed’s rise, Guyana will be judged harshly, not only by outsiders but by future generations who will inherit the consequences of today’s decisions.
The stakes could not be higher. Our democracy cannot be sold.
Sincerely, Concerned citizen
Constant banging failed to dislodge the PPP
HERE is the list of the anti-PPP bandwagon, apart from the mainstream opposition parties, whose constant banging was not random, episodic, weekly, or monthly but was a matutinal and nocturnal sermon that literally bombarded the nation.
1-The Stabroek News
2-The Kaieteur News
3-Oil and Gas Governance Network (OGGGN)
4-The Village Voice
5-Red Thread
6-Guyana Human Rights Association
7-Transparency Guyana Chapter
8-SASOD
9-In The Diaspora column
10-The TUC
11-Policy Forum
12-Henry Jeffrey
13-Chris Ram
14-David Hinds
15-Rickford Burke
16-GHK Lall
17-Tacuma Ogunseye
18-Janet Bulkan
19-Eusi Kwayana
20-Mark Benschop
21-Nigel Westmaas
22-Guyana Press Association
23-Travis Chase
24-Kian Jabour
25-Timothy Jonas
26-Vanda and Danuta Radzik
27-Melinda Janki
I could go on. These individuals, groups and organisations were constantly banging away at the government with relentless zeal and nuclear energy. The banging started in September 2020, the month after President Ali was inaugurated. The occasion was the murder of two cousins in Cotton Tree, which the Guyana Human Rights Association milked insanely to create national instability.
From Cotton Tree in September 2020, the banging went on daily and nightly until it reached its apogee on April 28 this year, when the Adrianna Younge post-mortem was used by all of the names listed above to weaken the government. The afternoon and night of April 28 saw the unleashing
by WIN, PNC, AFC and their surrogates of hundreds of scrapeheads in Regions Three, Four, and Five to create instability.
Let us look at some of the roads used by the anti-PPP bandwagon.
1-The fossil fuel industry is destructive and will create a disaster for Guyana and Guyanese must push the government out of the industry.
2-The new Booker in Guyana is EXXON, and Guyanese must force the government to force EXXON to renegotiate the contract.
3-There is widespread poverty in Guyana and class struggle will intensify because oil money is not reaching the ordinary folks.
4-There is a creeping apartheid in Guyana. There is expansive and expanding discrimination against African Guyanese.
5-The Guyana Government is an undemocratic administration that tolerates corruption.
6-The cost of living is harsh and is hurting low-income people.
Because of space constraints I have listed six areas of constant banging. This bandwagon rode the roadways of Guyana for five consecutive years sermonizing day in and day out. If a person came from another planet and examined this constant banging, then they would be confused as to how the incumbent party survived the 2025 election muchless retained power.
The political analyst has to provide an interpretation of why this constant banging was a miserable, ignominious failure. This was five years of heavy hitting. Stabroek News and Kaieteur News became insanely hostile to the government and maintained their unhealthy balance for five years. The Oil and Gas Governance Network and the anti-oil lobby attempted to scare Guyanese by painting the Guyana Government as a sycophant of Exxon. Several overbearing court cases were filed against the government by The Usual Suspects (TUS).
The racist platform of The Lunatic Fringe (TLF) went into the most uncivilised directions ever seen in a CARICOM
state. Unbridled racism was unleashed in Guyana and directed against the ruling party with a political viciousness never before seen in this country. TUS, TLF and the Mulatto/Creole Class (MCC) became more hostile to the ruling party than the mainstream opposition. If a person from another planet came to Guyana and read the Stabroek News and the Kaieteur News, they would have thought that they were the newspapers of the opposition parties.
Space constraints will prevent an elaboration as to why the anti-PPP bandwagon and the mainstream opposition failed to weaken the popular hold of the ruling party on the Guyanese electorate. Different explanations are to be found in different organisations and individuals listed here. I have to be brief.
The Guyanese people were and are not gullible. First, they did not find the opposition a credible alternative to the government. The Guyanese people rejected the tolerance for racism, violence, and rigged elections that the mainstream opposition parties embraced.
Secondly, Guyanese saw the OGGN as a bunch of expatriate Guyanese long gone from Guyana that contribute absolutely nothing to Guyana. People were literally disgusted with the likes of David Hinds, Rickford Burke and company and saw them as symptomatic of the decline of the opposition and rejected them.
The anti-oil lobby, which came from the MCC, was seen as pampered middle-class elites that were parroting the anti-oil narrative of Western countries that became rich from the very fossil fuel industry they are now condemning in Guyana.
Finally, when taken together – both the constant bangers and the mainstream opposition – were seen by the Guyanese people as flawed and hypocritical folks too obsessed with the government and lacking in credibility.
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.
ExxonMobil Guyana strengthens local content, workforce development
–– 6,200 Guyanese now employed in Oil-and-Gas
EXXONMOBIL Guyana
continues to deepen its commitment to local content and workforce development, investing heavily in Guyanese businesses, training, and industrial capacity.
Since beginning operations in 2015, ExxonMobil and its contractors have spent over US$2.9 billion with local businesses. In the first half of 2025 alone, US$419 million (approximately GY$87 billion) was directed to 1,800 Guyanese vendors, demonstrating a strong focus on supporting
local industry.
This year also marked a milestone with the launch of in-country fabrication at the Vreed-en-Hoop Shore Base Inc. (VEHSI), including the production of quad joints and Pipeline End Terminations (PLETs), a step that enhances Guyana’s industrial capabilities.
As of mid-2025, the company and its contractors employ more than 6,200 Guyanese, representing 70 per cent of the oil-and-gas workforce. Women make up one-third of employees, and 1,800 Guyanese are working
offshore. In addition, the workforce has received over 370,000 hours of training in leadership, technical skills, professional development, and health, safety, and security protocols.
Alistair Routledge, President of ExxonMobil Guyana, noted, “We are proud of the progress we’ve made in building local talent. Seeing more Guyanese take on key roles in the oil-and-gas industry is a clear sign that our commitment to capacity building is working.”
Looking ahead, the Guyana Technical Train -
Hughes owns up to AFC’s disastrous showing, resigns in wake of party’s collapse
JUST over a year after taking the reins of a party already in decline, Nigel Hughes has tendered his resignation as leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC), following a scathing defeat at the September 1, 2025, general and regional elections.
The Guyana Chronicle was, on Wednesday, reliably informed of Hughes’ resignation, which comes as the party’s relevance on the national political stage continues to evaporate.
Hughes, who assumed leadership in June 2024 with promises to revitalise the floundering party, took full responsibility for the crushing loss in a resignation letter circulated.
The AFC managed to scrape together just over 3,000 votes across all 10 electoral districts, an underwhelming show of support that underscores the party’s complete collapse in public support.
This marks one of the worst electoral performances in the AFC’s history, laying bare its dwindling
AFC’s leader Nigel Hughes has submitted a letter of resignation to the executive body
influence and shattered base. In the months leading up to the elections, the party was rocked by high-profile defections as several executive members jumped ship to align with the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC-R)-led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU). These defections further exposed the party’s internal
weakness.
Meanwhile, the AFC in statement confirmed that the executive committee received a letter from Hughes signalling his resignation with immediate effect.
According to the statement, the party will be meeting and hopes Hughes will retract his resignation.
“The National Executive Committee will be meeting in emergency session to discuss the ramifications and consequences of such a letter and will be encouraging Mr. Hughes to retract same,” the statement read.
The executive members will also be examining the party’s ‘constitutional provision’ to guide its way forward.
“Should he remain adamant in his decision, then the Party’s constitutional provisions will be used to guide the way forward.
It was only a few days ago that the National Executive Committee met and reposed fresh confidence in Mr. Hughes’ leadership,” the AFC said.
Sector as ExxonMobil expands training
ExxonMobil Guyana 2025 interns ing College Inc. (GTTCI), supported financially by ExxonMobil, the Stabroek Block co-venturers, and the government, will welcome its first cohort of locally trained students in October 2025—a landmark in technical education.
ExxonMobil’s internship programme is also yielding tangible results. Of the inaugural class, five interns have already joined the company, while the 2025 programme continues to provide young Guyanese with meaningful opportunities in the oil-andgas sector. These initiatives reflect ExxonMobil Guyana’s ongoing effort to foster local expertise, strengthen the domestic workforce, and contribute to the sustainable growth of Guyana’s oil-and-gas industry.
Electronic monitoring of drainage systems expected to come on stream by next month
–‘We are holding people accountable’ – President Ali
PRESIDENT Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has directed the leadership of the National Drainage & Irrigation Authority (NDIA) to ensure that every pump and sluice is brought online and connected directly to a single electronic platform within one month.
This will allow the NDIA to monitor operations
in real time, view the status of stations, and speak directly with operators on duty. This disclosure was made while the president engaged with farmers across Region Six at the Skeldon Sugar Factory on Wednesday.
According to President Ali, through this upgrade, officials will also be able to check on sluices at any time, ensuring round-the-clock
monitoring. Once fully online, the electronic platform will eliminate the need for constant phone calls and manual reporting.
The system will also be extended to other regions, providing local offices with direct access to their operational data.
“We are holding people accountable. That is what we do,” the head of state
said.
The use of technology in monitoring aspects of drainage and irrigation aims to strengthen the government’s operations and provide a higher quality of service Guyanese receive from pubic institutions.
Accompanying the president were the Senior Minister in the Office of the President with respon-
sibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh; Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha and Minister within the Ministry, Vickash Ramkisson; Minister of Public Service and Government Efficiency and Implementation, Zulfikar Ally and the Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues. (DPI)
Brickdam Police Station now 65 per cent complete
THE construction of the 12-storey Brickdam Police Station is advancing swiftly.
The facility represents the government’s wider commitment to modernising and transforming law enforce -
ment. The US$28M structure is now 65 per cent complete. It is the single largest infrastructural project undertaken by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond, conducted
her first site inspection on Wednesday since assuming office.
She was accompanied by Permanent Secretary Andre Ally and Deputy Permanent Secretary Dwayne Adams.
The modern concrete,
glass and steel building, being constructed on the plot of land which previously housed the old Brickdam Police Station, will replace Eve Leary as the new police headquarters. All the services currently available at Eve Leary will be accessible at the new location.
“As a government, we have been speaking of a high-level, world-class police force, and this facility is befitting of that kind of police force where we expect cutting-edge policing, removing bureaucracy, removing archaic methods of
doing things,” she said.
She added that the building is “a metaphor of all of the things that we will be expecting from the police force”, stressing that the welfare of officers remains central to the government’s approach.
The project is being executed by R. Bassoo & Sons Construction Company in partnership with Qing Jian Group Company Guyana Incorporated.
It will feature earthquake resistance, fire safety and prevention mechanisms, a CCTV system, and a robust
telephone network to boost security.
The project will also house several key departments, including traffic, finance and the impact base.
Currently, the building is already enclosed, and framing of the walls is set to commence shortly. The AC ducts, sprinkler and waste systems, as well as electrical and plumbing works, are advancing on schedule, with 90 per cent already complete.
Overall, the new police station is scheduled for completion by June next year.
President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali
Ministers Manickchand and Browne pledge joint efforts for Hinterland, Indigenous Communities
MINISTER of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand, on Tuesday evening, formally introduced the newly sworn-in Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Sarah Browne, to students residing in the hinterland dormitories at Liliendaal.
During the introduction, Minister Manickchand welcomed Minister Browne to her new role and under-
scored the importance of collaboration between their Ministries in advancing the government’s vision for equitable development across Guyana.
Minister Browne, in response, expressed her commitment to working closely with the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development to address the unique challenges facing hinterland and Indigenous communities.
Both Ministers highlighted that through coordinated efforts, their agencies aim to ensure that residents in the regions have access to improved services, greater opportunities, and the necessary support to thrive.
The engagement reflects the administration’s continued focus on inclusive development and strengthening ties with hinterland populations.
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya
on Tuesday evening, formally introduced the newly sworn-in Minister of
Sarah
Home Affairs Minister stresses world-class policing during station reconstruction tours
NEWLY-APPOINTED
Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond, on Wednesday, carried out her first official site visits since assuming office, touring key police stations under reconstruction and reaffirming the government’s commitment to citizen safety and officers’ welfare.
Her first stop was the new Brickdam Police Station in Georgetown, where she was accompanied by Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Andre Ally, and Deputy Per-
manent Secretary, Dwayne Adams. The team engaged with contractors to assess the progress of the long-awaited facility, which is expected to significantly enhance the capacity of the Guyana Police Force.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) Errol Watts and Deputy Commander of Regional Division 4 ‘A’, Michael Kingston, were also present during the visit, providing updates on the project.
Speaking at Brickdam, Minister Walrond under -
scored the importance of modernising the force to meet evolving national needs. “The safety of our citizens is everybody’s business,” she said. “When we ask our officers to deliver world-class services, we must also ensure they are working in a professional, comfortable environment that reflects the future we are building for Guyana.”
She added that the facility embodies the administration’s vision of a modern police force equipped with the resources to deliver efficient
service, while also creating better working conditions for ranks.
Following her stop in Georgetown, the Minister visited the Kitty and East La Penitence Police Sta -
tions, where she again engaged contractors and ranks to ensure projects remain on schedule.
These visits form part of the government’s broader agenda to modernise law
enforcement infrastructure across the country, reinforcing its pledge to create safer communities, improve service delivery, and support the men and women serving in uniform.
Manickchand,
Amerindian Affairs,
Browne, to students residing in the hinterland dormitories at Liliendaal
Newly-appointed Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond, along with sector officials during her tours to key police stations under reconstruction
THE leadership of the Central Housing and Planning Authority’s (CH&PA) Projects Department met, on Wednesday, with Minister of Housing, Collin Croal and Minister within the Ministry, Vanessa Benn, as the government reaffirmed its focus on expanding housing de -
velopment, sustainability, and staff welfare. The engagement, also attended by Permanent Secretary Bishram Kuppen and Deputy Director of Projects Intakab Indarjeet, served as an opportunity for the ministers to commend the department for its consistent work over the past five years, which has
helped transform Guyana’s housing and infrastructure landscape.
Minister Croal praised the staff’s dedication, noting that their contributions have been critical to meeting the growing demands of the housing sector. “As Guyana continues to grow, so too does the demand on this department. Your role
is central to shaping the future,” he said. He also underscored the importance of balancing the heavy workload with mental wellness, reminding employees of the Ministry’s support systems.
Minister Benn echoed these sentiments, applauding the department’s efforts and urging staff to integrate environmental sus -
tainability into their work.
“Housing development must align with environmental considerations if we are to ensure resilience and long-term growth,” she emphasised. She further highlighted the role of digitisation in improving efficiency and productivity within the agency.
Both ministers encour-
aged staff to use their platform to raise concerns, share ideas, and contribute to ongoing improvement. They assured that the Ministry remains committed to fostering open dialogue as it advances housing initiatives that meet the needs of citizens while promoting sustainability and innovation.
Public Works Ministers meet agency heads to chart five-year development plan
MINISTER of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill and Minister within the Ministry, Madanlall Ramraj, held a high-level meeting with the leadership of agencies under the Ministry’s purview on Tuesday, marking the start of strategic planning for the government’s new five-year term.
During the engagement, Minister Edghill formally introduced Minister Ramraj to the agency heads, urging full co-operation as the Ministry moves forward with initiatives aimed at national development and infrastructural transformation.
Minister Ramraj was briefed on the current operations and status of each agency and will, in the coming days, hold individual
meetings with the respective teams to review work programmes, address operational challenges, and fine-tune strategies for improved service delivery.
The meeting brought together representatives from key agencies, including the Canawaima Ferry Service, Transport and Harbours Department, Guyana National Shipping Corporation, Government Electrical Inspectorate, and the Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation.
This engagement underscores the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring coordination, efficiency, and accountability across all its agencies as it continues to execute projects critical to Guyana’s infrastructure and transportation development.
Minister of Housing, Collin Croal and Minister within the Ministry, Vanessa Benn and Permanent Secretary, Bishram Kuppen, met with the leadership of the Central Housing and Planning Authority’s (CH&PA) Projects Department
Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill and Minister within the Ministry, Madanlall Ramraj flanked by the leadership of agencies under the Ministry’s purview
McCoy meets state media teams to strengthen collaboration
–– outlines new policy direction
MINISTER within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, on Wednesday convened a meeting with managers and production teams of the state media at the Office of the Prime Minister, as part of efforts to enhance coordination and ensure effective communication of government policies and programmes.
He was joined by Director of Public Affairs, Gordon French, along with Information and Public Affairs Liaisons, Marcia Hope and Derwayne Wills, for engagements with leaders and staff
from the Department of Public Information (DPI), the National Communications Network (NCN), and the Guyana National Newspapers Limited (GNNL).
Minister McCoy commended the teams for their commitment and work over the past five years, noting their central role in delivering timely and reliable information to the public. He also outlined the policy direction for public information services during the second term of President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s administration.
Highlighting the evolving nature of media con -
sumption, the Minister stressed the importance of strengthening digital platforms while building on past successes. He emphasized the need for greater synergy between the state media entities to improve efficiency and delivery, with a strong focus on public awareness, education, and government transparency.
As Guyana continues to undergo rapid development, McCoy underscored that effective communication will remain vital in keeping citizens informed and engaged in national progress.
Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, on Wednesday convened a meeting with managers and production teams of the state media at the Office of the Prime Minister, as part of efforts to enhance coordination and ensure effective communication of government policies and programmes
Labour Minister Griffith outlines
vision to strengthen workforce across Guyana
MINISTER of Labour and Manpower Planning, Keoma Griffith, said the ministry was ready to expand its reach and impact across the country.
Speaking on the first episode of “Beyond the Title”, the minister outlined plans to work closely with the Attorney General’s Office to reform the labour force in the country.
Standing on his legal expertise, Minister Griffith intends to implement the appropriate legal framework to effectively balance and manage all the labour relations in the country.
of Labour and Manpower Planning,
“We have to have a strong legal framework to protect
the interests of employees; those who are working in the labour force in this country, but we have to also ensure that it’s also balanced to also manage the interests of employers and ensure the need for improvement on both sides,” he explained.
During the previous People’s Progressive Party Civic’s (PPP/C) term in office, under the leadership of his predecessor, Joseph Hamilton, who is now Senior Adviser at the ministry, the government recorded success rates in several areas.
These included training thousands of Guyanese
through the Board of Industrial Training (BIT), recovering millions in owed wages for workers, and increasing the inspections for safer workplaces.
Minister Griffith noted that since assuming office back in 2020, the government has delivered more than 50,000 jobs.
This achievement, he credited to the Labour Ministry, which played an essential role in preparing the workforce to meet the demands of this changing economy.
He further added, “There is an aspect of the ministry called the Central Recruit -
ment and Manpower Agency, which a lot of people will still learn about what we’re doing in terms of manpower planning, but it’s really to prepare a labour force and a work force with all that Guyana is experiencing right now.”
Minister Griffith highlighted the striking contrast that will define Guyana in 2025 and 2030, emphasising that the difference hinges on the investments being made in the nation’s people today.
He described these investments as “deposits,” noting that every new training programme, scholarship,
Lethem fisherman remanded on
25-pound narcotics trafficking charge
A 48-year-old fisherman of Tabatinga, Lethem, was on Wednesday remanded to prison after being charged with possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.
The accused, Clive Thornhill, appeared before Magistrate Omadatt Chandan at the Lethem Magistrate’s Court, where the charge was read. He pleaded
not guilty but was ordered remanded. The matter has been adjourned to October 28, 2025.
Thornhill’s arrest followed a police operation on September 16, 2025, when ranks intercepted minibus #BVV 887 during a stopand-search exercise around 09:30hrs. The vehicle, driven by Jacob Lowe, 44, of South Ruimveldt, was trans-
porting three passengers — Thornhill and two Brazilian nationals.
During the search, police instructed the passengers to identify their belongings. While Lowe and the Brazilian nationals were cleared, Thornhill was found carrying a black side bag containing $703,180 Guyana dollars, 1,798 Brazilian Reais, 3,260 Cuban pesos,
and US$1,137.
Officers then examined a white cardboard box and a ten-gallon bucket, both identified as Thornhill’s property. Inside, they uncovered twelve bulky transparent parcels of suspected cannabis and two plastic bags containing 40 suspected ecstasy pills. A further search of a red five-gallon bucket, retrieved from the minibus
roof rack, revealed five additional parcels of cannabis.
When weighed at the Lethem Police Station in Thornhill’s presence, the suspected narcotics totalled 25.6 pounds.
Upon being cautioned, Thornhill reportedly admitted ownership, telling police: “Sir, give yuh boy a chance, is a lil hustle, tek the money.”
enhanced service, and policy designed to protect and strengthen workers’ rights adds lasting value to the country’s human capital.
The PPP/C Administration, he affirmed, is laying a strong foundation, expanding access to training, fortifying institutions, and preparing Guyanese to thrive in a rapidly evolving economy.
Minister Griffith expressed optimism that these deposits will yield visible rewards: a workforce that is more skilled, confident, and empowered to drive Guyana’s future growth. (DPI)
THE trial into the alleged electoral fraud in the March 2, 2020, General and Regional Elections continued yesterday with two witnesses being called before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty for cross-examination.
The two witnesses called on Wednesday were Rondha-Ann Lam, Presidential Candidate and Leader of The Citizenship Initiative (TCI) in the 2020 General and Regional Elections and Jonathan Year-
aspects, including her role during the recount process, which occurred at that time.
Lam, who noted that she was at the time acting as an agent for her party, ensured that she was informed of what her role was after being accredited.
Questions were raised in relation to whether she witnessed a tabulation or a verification process while on-site at the Ashmins Building.
Previously, Lam had testified that there were
Former ANUG executive, Jonathan Yearwood
wood, former executive of A New and United Guyana (ANUG).
During her cross-examination, Lam was questioned by Attorneys Nigel Hughes, Ronald Daniels and Dexter Todd on various
discrepancies in the figures, which led to disputes among party members over incorrect statements of poll (SoPs) numbers. These discrepancies appeared to have shown a deliberate pattern of ad-
tent of the actual boxes with the SoPs that GECOM provided during the recount, to which he noted that he did not observe that happening.
Yearwood had previously testified that he and other party agents had raised objections to the tabulation process continuing.
At that time, when those objections were made vocal, he testified that international observers were being threatened and verbally abused by a named APNU+AFC representative.
Change (APNU+AFC) government, Volda Lawrence.
Also facing charges are former Chief Elections Officer (CEO) at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Keith Lowenfield, former Deputy CEO, Roxanne Myers and former Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo.
Also charged are former GECOM employees Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Denise Babb-Cummings and Michelle Miller.
vote, Guyana’s judiciary was inundated with multiple applications and appeals filed by various political actors over the electoral process.
The saga lasted five months before a national recount, led by GECOM and a delegation from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), confirmed the PPP/C’s victory and ultimately led to the swearing-in of President Dr. Irfaan Ali on August 2, 2020.
justing votes with increases benefitting the then incumbent A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC).
Meanwhile, during Yearwood’s cross-examination, he was asked about the comparison of the con-
However, both witnesses are expected to return for further cross-examination, while other witnesses are expected to take the stand and present evidence today.
Defendants in this matter include People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) member Carol Smith-Joseph and former Health Minister under the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For
Collectively, they face 19 conspiracy charges and are being represented by a large defence team.
It is the prosecution’s case that each defendant had a “critical role” to play in the wilful endeavour to inflate votes for the APNU+AFC, and deflate votes for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).
In the weeks that followed the March 2, 2020,
The recount confirmed that the PPP/C won the elections with 233,336 votes against the APNU+AFC coalition’s 217,920.
The initial election results, announced by former CEO Lowenfield, claimed an APNU+AFC victory.
The APNU+AFC coalition received 171,825 votes, while the PPP/C received 166,343 votes, according to Lowenfield’s election report.
Albion Estate’s new Billet Harvester marks major leap in Sugar Industry modernisation
THE Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) has announced a significant step forward in modernising its operations with the installation of a new billet harvester at the Albion Estate, a move expected to boost efficiency, productivity, and overall resilience within the sugar industry.
The machine, designed to cut sugarcane into uniform billets, is capable of harvesting up to 28 tons
of cane per hour. This level of output reduces the dependence on manual labour at a time when the industry is grappling with an ongoing shortage of cane-cutters. GuySuCo noted that the harvester will complement the work of cane farmers, ensuring that production schedules are maintained while maximising output.
Estate Manager at Albion, Yudhisthira Mana, praised the new addition, explaining that the ma -
chine has already completed 100 working hours.
“It has proven itself to be working very efficiently. Around 40 per cent of the sugar cane is to be reaped by these machines, which will boost production and performance in terms of cane supply,” Mana said. This milestone aligns with the government’s broader vision for the sugar industry. Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, during a June 25, 2025 engagement with workers at the
Albion Sports Complex, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to revitalising and transforming the sector.
The People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), in its 2025 Manifesto, highlighted agriculture as a major pillar of Guyana’s non-oil economy, with the sugar industry being central to food security, job creation, and economic diversification. The party pledged continued investment in mechanisation,
factory modernisation, and value-added production, alongside new ventures such as ethanol development and packaging facilities.
The government has emphasised that its longterm plan includes positioning GuySuCo as a hub for rural economic development while safeguarding the livelihoods of sugar workers. This contrasts with what it described as years of neglect under the former APNU+AFC ad -
ministration, during which several estates were closed. With mechanisation now advancing at estates like Albion, and strategic projects such as the near-complete packaging plant and ethanol feasibility studies underway, the introduction of the billet harvester represents not only a technological upgrade but also a signal of renewed confidence in the future of Guyana’s sugar industry.
New road to be built at Providence to connect Ogle-Eccles Highway – Min Edghill
THE government is actively exploring the most efficient route to establish a new connector road linking Providence on the East Bank corridor to Ogle–Eccles Highway.
This aims to minimise the disruption to commuters and unnecessary delays.
Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, announced on Wednesday during a site visit to the construction of a roundabout that is underway to connect the access road from the New Demerara River Bridge to the Heroes Highway.
He was joined by Minister of Housing, Collin Croal, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Madanlall Ramraj, along with engineers
and contractors from both ministries.
Minister Edghill revealed that the Heroes Highway roundabout will be completed shortly, ensuring smoother access to the new bridge.
“What has been happening at the backlands that people don’t see is that from where the road from Ogles to Eccles was built – it stopped – we are continuing the road to Providence so that there can be a smooth connection from that highway to this highway,” the public works minister explained.
He continued by highlighting, “What we are examining right now is the alignment from the back to come up to the front, which is about two kilometres be-
tween Heroes Highway and that road.”
Minister Edghill further noted that the government is examining the alignment for the approximately two-kilometre stretch needed to link Heroes Highway to the Ogle–Eccles Road. There will be three connector roads between Ogle-Eccles Road and Heroes Highway and Aubrey Barker, which is coming on stream shortly.
Meanwhile, Minister Croal underscored that the government’s priority is to create additional road networks while limiting inconvenience to residents.
“…Because of the expansion work that is taking place, you will have the likelihood of running through
Noble, El Dorado Offshore to host recruitment drive at Parika Market Tarmac
JOB seekers in Guyana’s fast-growing offshore sector will have a rare chance to connect directly with employers when the Noble recruitment drive comes to the Parika market tarmac on Sunday, September 21, 2025.
The one-day event, which runs from 07:00 hours to 13:00 hours, is being hosted in partnership with El Dorado Offshore (EDO), Noble, and MATPAL Marine Institute. It is aimed at creating opportunities for young talent to begin or advance their careers in the offshore industry.
According to organisers, participants will be able to engage directly with recruitment teams, submit resumes, complete on-the-spot interviews, and learn more about job openings across the sector. Guidance will also be provided on the Marine Cadet Scholarship Program 2026, which offers successful applicants a pathway to becoming internationally certified Marine Officers.
“This initiative continues to build the foundation for a national talent pipeline—one built on discipline, opportunity, and ambition,” the organisers said, emphasising the importance of equipping Guyanese with the skills and experience required to thrive
in the offshore workforce. Applicants are encouraged to bring a valid government-issued ID, printed copies of their resume, and to attend in professional attire. The venue, located near the stelling at the Parika market tarmac, will be open to all qualified candidates.
connector road
communities and the desirable outcome that we would like to have is to have the least disruption for the residents and to look at the best possible route…”, Minister
Croal explained before stating that, “As time goes by, we will certainly inform and engage those persons who may be affected, if they are.”
The site visit forms part
With Guyana’s oil and gas sector continuing to expand, initiatives like these are seen as critical to preparing citizens for longterm employment opportunities while strengthening the country’s capacity to meet global offshore standards.
of the government’s aggressive infrastructural development agenda to ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity for residents and businesses. (DPI)
Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, Minister of Housing, Collin Croal and a technical team examine the layout for the
Zamal Hussain vows to champion Region Six development in Parliament
By Bebi Shafeah Oosman
REGION SIX has gained a strong voice in the Twelfth Parliament with the appointment of Zamal Hussain, a seasoned community leader and public servant, who has pledged to use his new platform to advocate for greater development in the region.
Hussain, who has served as the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Regional Party Supervisor since 2016 and Vice Chairman of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) since 2020, was officially named a Member of Parliament by President Dr. Irfaan Ali on September 13, 2025.
His ascension marks the continuation of a political journey rooted in grassroots engagement and decades of service.
Speaking about his new role, Hussain emphasised that his priority will be ensuring the ongoing transformation of Region Six.
“Right now, in Region Six there are a number of development works and projects that have commenced to improve the lives of residents. Both major and minor projects are being rolled out to make life better, and it is integral that these continue to satisfy the populace and strengthen support for the PPP/C government,” he said.
Hussain highlighted that while the government has achieved significant progress in the region over the
past five years, more must be done.
“The people are happy, but they want to see more, and we will ensure that every citizen in Region Six is comfortable,” he stressed.
His track record reflects deep involvement in infrastructure and service delivery. As Vice Chairman of the RDC, he chaired key committees such as Local Government and Works, focusing on roads, drainage, and other essential facilities. His leadership helped shape policies that directly addressed residents’ needs at the grassroots level.
Hussain’s political journey began in 1989 at the
Berbice Mining Enterprise (Burmine) before he transitioned into business and later community service.
He joined the RDC in 2006 under the mentorship of then Regional Chairman and now Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, whom he credits for helping launch his political career.
He also expressed gratitude for the guidance of President Ali and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, noting that their confidence continues to inspire his work.
“Listening to issues from residents and ensuring they are solved at the grassroots level has molded my career.
The satisfaction from that motivates you to aspire high-
er and continue your work,” Hussain reflected. While not a Cabinet minister, Hussain intends to be a strong voice on parliamentary committees and in legislative debates, using his local knowledge to inform national policy.
He believes his experience as a community advocate positions him to help bridge the gap between regional needs and national decision-making.
Meanwhile, residents of Region Six have welcomed his appointment, with many taking to social media to congratulate him and applaud the PPP/C’s decision to elevate one of their own to Parliament.
Member of Parliament, Zamal Hussain
PM Phillips commends OPM agencies for exemplary service
–– sets vision for 2026–2030
PRIME Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, accompanied by Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy on Wednesday engaged the leadership of agencies and departments under the purview of the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) in a comprehen-
sive strategic meeting. During the session, Prime Minister Phillips extended deep appreciation to the Permanent Secretary, staff of the OPM, and the heads of affiliated agencies for their outstanding service and commitment over the 2020–2025 administrative period. He praised
their professionalism and underscored the tangible benefits their collective contributions have delivered to the Guyanese people.
The Prime Minister urged department heads and their teams to maintain high standards of operational excellence, encouraging them to con-
tinue fulfilling their mandates with efficiency and effectiveness.
Minister McCoy, in his remarks, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening operations in line with President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s strategic vision. He expressed gratitude for the work completed to date and conveyed confidence in the capacity of
the agencies to further advance the administration’s development agenda.
As part of the meeting, agencies presented detailed reports highlighting major achievements over the past five years while outlining strategic objectives for 2026. These objectives were carefully aligned with the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government’s 2026–2030
development mandate, setting out clear frameworks to enhance service delivery and institutional performance.
The engagement was seen as both a moment of reflection and a platform for charting the way forward, as the OPM and its agencies prepare to play a central role in Guyana’s continued transformation.
‘Disingenuous and troubling’
— DPI Director pushes back against SN Editor’s claim of exclusion
DIRECTOR of Public Information, Edward Layne, has described as “disingenuous and troubling” claims by Editor-in-Chief of Stabroek, Anand Persaud, that his newspaper was not invited to cover President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s press conference on Tuesday. Persaud, in a Facebook post, alleged that accredited media houses had been excluded from the high-profile briefing, accusing the Office of the President of showing “great disrespect.” However, Layne, in an official statement, rejected the assertion outright, dubbing it as “Disingenuous and troubling.” He said that the accred-
ited Presidential journalist from Stabroek News, Marcelle Fowler, had in fact been contacted and formally invited to attend.
“The accredited Presidential Journalist, Ms. Marcelle Fowler, was contacted via telephone at around 11:00 AM today and invited to cover the President’s Press Conference, just as every other accredited journalist was invited,” Layne explained.
He added that a follow-up WhatsApp message was also sent at 2:30 PM to Fowler, alluding that the outreach was consistent with the process used for all other media houses. Layne further pointed out that “every other invited
journalist” was present at the press conference, with Stabroek News being the only exception.
“His assertion that an invitation extended to one of his most senior journalists, who is accredited to cover Presidential engagements,
“undermines” the newspaper is an absurdity unbecoming of someone who professes to be a guardian of journalistic integrity," the DPI Director said.
The Office of the President and the Department of Public Information have,
on countless occasions, reached out directly to accredited journalists and extended verbal invitations to presidential and other Government of Guyana engagements, and never once was this procedure questioned
"For Mr. Persaud to now insist that only a written invitation is valid is a poor attempt at manufacturing a controversy where none exists. An invitation, whether verbal or written, once extended by the appropriate authority, is legitimate, and no amount of manipulation can change this fact.
"The PPP/C Government has always valued and respected the role of the media in our democracy, and we expect, like every other
Guyanese, that journalists will uphold the highest standards of fairness, accuracy, and professionalism. Misrepresenting facts will only undermine public trust in the fourth estate and erode the very democratic principles journalists are meant to uphold," Layne said. He related that President Ali and his government have always been and continue to be open and accessible to the media and, by extension, every citizen of this country, and there is no intention to retreat from these long-held principles of transparency and accountability that have defined successive PPP/C administrations.
Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, joined by Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, on Wednesday held a wide-ranging strategic meeting with the leadership of agencies and departments overseen by the OPM
(1) Who scored most runs for the Patriots in CPL 2025?
(2) Who scored most runs for Barbados Royals? Answers in tomorrow’s issue
ENGLISH RACING TIPS AYR
08:45hrs Mr Colonel 09:15hrs Harb 09:45hrs Dain Ma Nut In
10:15hrs Aeo Lian
10:45hrs The Childe Of Hale
11:15hrs Redarna
11:45hrs Munshaar
12:20hrs Spinning Wheel
PONTEFRACT
08:52hrs Cargin Bhui
09:22hrs Kind Touch
09:52hrs Silver Chamber
10:22hrs Salaria
10:52hrs Lights Go Down 11:23hrs Influential 11:55hrs Young Merlin 12:32hrs Milteye
KEMPTON
10:57hrs Wedonttelllies 11:27hrs D Day Major Winter
12:02hrs Aim For The Bull
12:40hrs Dovey Moon
13:12hrs Allgresse 13:45hrs Khafar
14:15hrs Rogue Empire
14:45hrs Royal Pleasure
15:15hrs South Bank
IRISH RACING TIPS
NAAS
09:07hrs Tornado Kiss
09:37hrs Savile Row
10:07hrs Aegina
10:37hrs Sup Of Red
11:07hrs Ipanema Beach
11:38hrs War Saint
12:13hrs Duke Of Cumberland
12:48hrs Port Fernando
SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS
VAAL
08:15hrs Olympian Hold
08:50hrs Shinto Shine
09:25hrs Lucky Lad
10:05hrs Francine
10:40hrs Versace Onthetrack
AMERICAN RACING TIPS
BELMONT
Race 1 Zarak The Brave Race 2 Thatsthe Fact Jack Race 3 Brokealltherules Race 4 Innate Race 5 The Jeweler Race 6 Laughing Boy Race 7 Strictly Taboo
Mandhana ton hands India first win at home against Australia since 2007
EIGHTEEN years and 206 days. It was a long wait. One in which cricket careers started and ended. India finally broke the duck by winning a home ODI against Australia for the first time since 2007. The 102-run margin may seem big, but it was not easy coming.
It took a spirited bowling show from India following Smriti Mandhana's splendid century to draw level in the three-match series. Riding on Mandhana's 12th ODI century, India posted 292, a total that seemed lower than what they should have got.
In response, India's seamers first stifled the top order and then the spinners squeezed the middle order to hand Australia their biggest ODI defeat. All this after being thrashed in the opening match at the same venue.
Australia wanted to "get out in the heat and accli -
matise" and inserted India in what was a flat track. But India's innings was all Mandhana or bust. She hit a six on her eighth ball, came on top of an unfavourable matchup in Ashleigh Gardner and made full use of the first powerplay to race away to a 45-ball fifty. With India a batter short after Jemimah Rodrigues was ruled out of the series with viral fever, Mandhana never let the tempo down.
With Shafali Verma no longer part of ODI plans, Mandhana has transitioned into being an aggressor and got to her century in just 77 balls, the second-quickest for India. Only Meg Lanning (15) and Suzie Bates (13) have more centuries than Mandhana. But it was a struggle for the other India batters. Pratika Rawal couldn't find a way around Australia's tactics and 20 off her 32 balls were
Josh Phillipe's blistering ton headlines Australia A's dominance
JOSH Philippe's blistering 123 not out off 87 balls headlined Australia A's dominant batting performance on Day 2 of the first unofficial Test against India A in Lucknow. On a rain-hit day, Australia A posted a formidable 532/6 declared before India A began a strong reply, going to 116/1 at Stumps with Narayan Jagadeesan unbeaten on 50.
Starting the day at 337/5, the overnight pair of Philippe and Liam Scott continued strongly as they extended their partnership to 81. Scott's outing was ended by Gurnoor Brar, who dismissed the all-rounder for 81.
Josh Philippe's unbeaten 123 came off just 87 balls
Xavier Bartlett then partnered Philippe as the wicketkeeper-batter dealt in regular boundaries to bring up a brisk hundred. He collected 18 fours and 4 sixes in his knock while Bartlett also batted positively, striking 5 fours and 2 sixes in his 24-ball 39 not out, before Australia A declared their innings. Abhimanyu Easwaran and Jagadeesan started well for India, scoring at a good rate as they added 88. Easwaran, though, missed out on a half-century, bowled by Scott on 44. Sai Sudharsan then scored the bulk of the runs, including three boundaries, in his unbroken 28-run stand with Jagadeesan, who reached fifty late in the day. India A, however, still have their work cut out as they start Day 3 still 416 runs in arrears.
dots. Harleen Deol, too, couldn't score a run on 17 of her first 19 balls. Deepti Sharma made 40 off 53 balls but could hit just two fours. Darcie Brown picked up three wickets, having found her rhythm towards the end
of the innings. Australia had their task cut out - they had to achieve their highest successful chase in ODIs. In front of them was the returning Renuka Singh, playing her first international following
her stress injury last year. It took only six balls for her to strike, Georgia Voll - who replaced Phoebe Litchfield, rested for a minor quad strain - bagging a five-ball duck in her first international match in India. Soon, Kranti Goud dismissed Alyssa Healy for the second time in two games. At the first powerplay, Australia were 25 for 2, their lowest 10-over powerplay total since the 2017 World Cup.
Ellyse Perry kept Australia on track with Beth Mooney first and Annabel Sutherland later. It was a phase where India dropped a few catches: Richa Ghosh failing to hold on to a very tough leg-side chance with Perry attempting a paddle, Deol failing to hang onto a Mooney miscue after running in from long-off and Radha dropping Sutherland off her own bowling.
Perry and Mooney added
50 in 73 balls before Perry and Sutherland joined together for a 46-run stand that just took 45 balls. Between all that, India got a minor scare with Renuka walking off, clutching her left calf. She bowled a spell of six straight overs at the start of the chase and then was brought back after a five-over break. While Renuka came back on a few overs later, she did not bowl anymore. It was Sneh Rana first who deceived Mooney with a wider line - with Arundhati Reddy, in for Rodrigues, taking a running catch - and then Radha who dealt a big blow with Perry's caught and bowled. When Reddy snapped Sutherland's aggressive run, India sensed a win, which was duly sealed with Deepti's two wickets in two overs. (Cricinfo)
Salt blitz powers England past Ireland in Malahide
PHIL Salt continued from where he left off against South Africa with another blazing knock as England got past Ireland by four wickets in the first T20I in Malahide. Chasing 197, England rode on Salt's 89 off 46 to wrap up the game with 14 balls to spare and take a 1-0 lead in the threematch series. This was also the first time in six T20Is that England defeated a European nation in the format.
England's intent was clear right from the start of the chase. Salt and Jos Buttler hammered 74 in just 4.3 overs to flatten Ireland's newball hopes. Buttler fell for a 10-ball 28 but Salt carried on,
peppering the boundary with ten fours and four sixes. His clean ball-striking left Ireland searching for answers as the
required rate dropped rapidly.
Sam Curran chipped in with a brisk 27 off 15 and Jacob Bethell, on captaincy debut, contributed 24 off 16 to keep the chase in control. Ireland did manage to claw back a few wickets in the middle, including Salt falling short of a hundred, but by then the game was as good as done. Jamie Overton applied the finishing touches with a six and a four, taking England home in the 18th over.
Earlier, England handed the captaincy to 21-year-old Bethell, who became the youngest men's T20I skipper for his country. His first assignment was to field after winning the toss. Ireland had posted a competitive 196/3,
Pakistan set up India match with...
Sunday's match - the first between the two countries since the military conflict earlier this year - and also claim match referee Andy Pycroft told their captain Salman Agha not to shake hands with his India counterpart at the toss.
Pakistan subsequently asked for Pycroft, who remained as match referee for Wednesday's match against the UAE, to be removed from officiating at the tournament.
The game was due to begin at 15:30 BST.
Pakistan's players remained at the team hotel as talks continued but did depart for the Dubai International Stadium about 30 minutes before the scheduled toss.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chair Mohsin Naqvi held talks with his predecessors Ramiz Raja and Najam Sethi shortly
(From page 23)
before their departure.
Soon after, organisers announced the match would begin at 16:30 BST and a subsequent PCB statement said Pycroft had apologised to "the manager and captain of the Pakistan cricket team".
This is the latest occasion that relations between India and Pakistan have impacted cricket. They already do not play each other outside of global
built around Harry Tector's unbeaten 61 off 36 balls and Lorcan Tucker's explosive 55 off 36 deliveries. The pair added 123 runs for the fourth wicket after Ireland had slipped to 67/2. Ireland's innings got off to a solid start with Paul Stirling and Ross Adair putting on 57 for the opening wicket. However, both fell in quick succession. Tucker and Tector then took charge, keeping the tempo high with a range of shots.
The pair stayed together until the penultimate ball of the innings, powering Ireland to a good total on a good batting surface before Salt's brilliance made light work of the chase.
events and India's matches at the Champions Trophy were moved to Dubai earlier this year after they refused to travel to hosts Pakistan.
Pakistan will not travel to India for next month's Women's World Cup, with their matches instead being moved to Sri Lanka.
India and Pakistan meet in Colombo on Sunday, 5 October. (BBC Sport)
Smriti Mandhana's hits splendid century to help India draw level in the three-match series
Phil Salt took 46 balls for his 89
Historic all-female Emirates ICC Panel appointed for ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025
THE International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a landmark moment in the history of the sport: an all-female Emirates ICC Panel of Match Officials will oversee the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. This marks the first time in tournament history that a Women’s Cricket World Cup will be officiated entirely by women, a feat made possible by the ICC’s work across many years to support, elevate and empower women in cricket. This achievement is another milestone for the ICC’s
broader strategic vision to accelerate the growth of women’s cricket. It marks the fourth global tournament to feature an all-female panel of match officials, following the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham and the two most recent ICC Women’s T20 World Cups.
The 13th edition of the Women’s Cricket World Cup, hosted by India, will feature 31 matches over 33 days, with eight teams vying for global glory.
A total of 14 umpires and four match referees – each
bringing significant international experience – have been selected to represent the Emirates ICC Panel during the event.
The officiating team includes highly experienced umpires such as Claire Polosak, Jacqueline Williams, and Sue Redfern – all of whom are making their third Women’s Cricket World Cup appearance. Lauren Agenbag and Kim Cotton, who stood as on-field umpires in the 2022 final when Australia secured their seventh title, return alongside fellow 2022 official Eloise Sheridan.
The match referee panel in-
MoM Motie spins Warrior to Sunday’s CPL final Republic Bank CPL Qualifier 1
By Sean Devers
URGED on by a sold-out crowd that included President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, the Guyana Amazon Warriors beat defending Champions St Lucia Kings by 14 runs in Qualifier 1 of the Republic Bank CPL last night at Providence.
The Warriors have now qualified for their eighth final, with their only title coming in 2023.
The Warriors were inserted on a good track and a fast outfield as Ben McDermott edged lively left-arm pacer Tymal Mills for a fortuitous boundary before hitting him for another to rush into double figures.
McDermott whipped the pacey Alzarri Joseph for four before viciously pulling him into the Orange Stand and followed it up by swatting Khary Pierre back past him.
Quentin Sampson got his first run when the score was 36, as he played the role of silent partner.
With the total on 45 (the highest opening for the tournament), McDermott had stumps knocked out, mistiming a big heave at David Wiese. His 34 lasted 27 balls with five fours and a six.
The 50 came up from 39 balls and was laced with five fours and two sixes to the delight of the large and raucous crowd. Sampson then dumped Pierre and deposited Wiese for massive sixes before clobbering a short wide ball over cover and was taken by the sweeper. His 17 included a couple of sixes and departed at 62-2.
At the halfway stage, the Warriors were 67-2. Joseph removed Shamar Brooks (6) at 83-3 which brought Hetmyer to the crease.
Hetmyer made a masterful 68 in his last game and arrived with great expectations of repeat performance but could only sweep Tabraiz Shamsi to Pierre on the square leg boundary.
Three runs later, Shamsi removed Hassan Khan (1) as the Warriors slipped to 98-5.
The 100 was posted in 87 balls, and all hope was left on Shai Hope, who played with his usual elegance.
West Indies Test Captain Roston Chase bowled Moeen Ali (4) at 107-6 which brought the hard-hitting Dwaine Pretorius to the crease. He clobbered Chase for six and the fans were dancing in the stands to the pulsating music.
Hope continued to hit the ball sweetly, but he was running out of partners.
Pretorius hit two fours and a six in a cameo eight-ball 17 before he provided Shamsi with his third wicket to leave the Warriors on 126-7.
Hope, the leading run-scorer in the tournament, made 32 with two fours and has accumulated 479 runs, 92 more than Colin Munroe, who sits in the second spot, but his demise left the Warriors on 139-8.
Romario Shepherd hit two fours and a six in a blistering eight-ball 21 before he fell to Mills at 155-9 with Gudakesh Motie (6) being last out to Mills as Warriors’ batters failed to fire.
Shamsi had 3-33 while
cludes respected figures Trudy Anderson, Shandré Fritz, GS Lakshmi, and Michell Pereira – each continuing to pave the way for women in officiating roles at the highest level of the game.
ICC Chairman, Mr. Jay Shah believes that this historic moment in women’s cricket will lead to many more success stories across every spectrum of the sport.
He said: “This marks a defining moment in the journey of women’s cricket, one that we hope will pave the way for many more trailblazing stories across all facets of the sport.
The inclusion of an all-women panel of match officials is not only a major milestone but also a powerful reflection of the ICC’s unwavering commitment to advancing gender equity across cricket.
“We are honoured to recognise a new chapter in the growth of the women’s game. We believe the influence of this initiative will resonate far beyond this tournament, motivating more women worldwide to pursue officiating careers and helping redefine what’s possible within the game.”
Emirates ICC Panel of Match Officials – ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 Match Referees:
Mills, Joseph and Wiese took two each.
Chasing 158 to win and go straight to the final, the Kings slumped to 12-3.
Pretorius removed Tim Seifert (1) and Ackeem Auguste (9) while Johnson Charles (1) fell to Shepherd.
Chase (18) and Aaron Jones took the Kings 40 before Motie struck twice in two balls; he caught Chase with a beauty and bowled Tim David and at 40-5, Motie was on a hat-trick.
The tournament’s leading wicket-taker Imran Tahir, bowled Aaron Jones (10) at 44-6 to move to 19 scalps while Wiese (3) fell to Motie at 48-7.
After 10 overs, the Kings were being dethroned 52-7.
Joseph (14) provided the 46-year-old Tahir with his twentieth scalp as the Kings were 85-8.
But Pierre kept the fight alive, and a gritty half century caused the Warriors unnecessary trouble.
Pierre reached his 50 from 29 balls with three fours and five sixes before he fell to Motie at 117-9.
Hassan Khan removed Mills, who hit 30 with four fours and a six. He shared in a 26-run stand with Shamsi (5) that took the game into the last over,
Motie took 4-30 to follow up his 5-21 in his last match to move to 18 wickets. Tahir is the only other bowler with 5-for in this year’s CPL
The Kings still have an opportunity to retain their crown when they face the Knight Riders in tomorrow’s Qualifier 2 from 20:00hrs.
“This development goes beyond symbolic value. It is
about visibility, opportunity, and the creation of meaningful role models who can inspire future generations. By highlighting excellence in officiating on the global stage, we aim to spark aspiration and reinforce that leadership and impact in cricket know no gender.
Trudy Anderson, Shandré Fritz, GS Lakshmi, Michell Pereira Umpires: Lauren Agenbag, Candace la Borde, Kim Cotton, Sarah Dambanevana, Shathira Jakir Jesy, Kerrin Klaste, Janani N, Nimali Perera, Claire Polosak, Vrinda Rathi, Sue Redfern, Eloise Sheridan, Gayathri Venugopalan, Jacqueline Williams. (ICC Media)
Barbados Royals claim hat-trick...
Shamilia Connell broke the 34-run stand when she trapped Grimmond lbw for 18.
Grimmond, favouring the leg-side, hit three boundaries on the lightning-fast outfield and her demise made way for West Indies player Stafanie Taylor to join Hunter.
Taylor hit Afy Fletcher and Patil for boundaries to post the 50 in 55 balls.
Taylor (15) was forced to retire hurt with a hamstring with the score on 56-1.
The 19-year-old Hunter continued to play well while Harris got going with a six and four off Fletcher.
In conditions which had become increasingly overcast, Alleyne disturbed her stumps at 72-2. Harris’s 18 lasted eight balls and was decorated with two fours and a six.
The 38-year-old Grenadian leggie Fletcher soon bowled Hunter after the Ireland U-19 player was looking
set on a carefully constructed 29 from 36 balls with the Warriors on 80-3.
Campbelle and van Niekerk brought up the 100 from 95 balls.
The pair carried their team to 136-3 with an unfinished 56- run stand. Campbelle hit two fours and a six in her 28, and van Niekerk reached the ropes twice in 27.
The Royals began their reply in cool conditions, and the big- hitting Qiana Joseph (4) fell to Molly Penfold with the Royals on 20-1.
Athapaththu, the tournament’s leading run scorer, was joined by Kycia Knight, and together they took their team to 42 before she was taken mid-off as off-spinner Karishma Ramharack struck a crucial blow.
Athapaththu’s 25 from 20 balls with five boundaries carried her 194 from five matches, 38 more than Hunter, who finished second in the runs tally.
(From back page)
Munisar removed Knight to break the 39-run stand and leave the Royals on 81-3 before Munisar held a stupendous catch at square-leg 90-4.
Chinelle Henry (6) pulled a full toss from Latchman.
The Berbician from Rose Hall Canje knocked the ball from the full blooded into the air before taking on the second attempt to trigger a stutter.
Djenaba Joseph (8) was smartly stumped by Hunter as Latchman struck at 108-5.
Munisar got rid of the dangerous Courtney Webb, who hit a four and a six in 31.
At the same score, Fletcher was stumped for a duck off Munisar, and the Royals had slipped from 81-2 to 110-7.
Alleyne hit Penfold for a six and a four to remain unbeaten on 17 from just nine balls. With her, undefeated on 10 with two sixes, was Patil in a thrilling last-over victory.
Hosein to lead West Indies for...
Bascombe stated.
“It allows our senior men’s team to engage with a passionate emerging nation while providing invaluable match experience in different conditions. Beyond the immediate competition, this tour speaks to our long-term vision of developing a squad that is
adaptable, resilient and ready for global challenges.”
(From back page)
Tour Schedule:
1st T20I: September 27, Sharjah Cricket Stadium
2nd T20I: September 29, Sharjah Cricket Stadium 3rd T20I: September 30, Sharjah Cricket Stadium
West Indies Squad: Akeal Hosein (Captain), Fabian Allen, Jewel Andrew, Ackeem Auguste, Navin Bidaisse, Jediah Blades, Keacy Carty, Karima Gore, Jason Holder, Amir Jangoo, Kyle Mayers, Obed McCoy, Zishan Motara, Ramon Simmonds, Shamar Springer.
Jamaican Jacqueline Williams set to officiate in her third Women’s Cricket World Cup
Guyana Hockey Board top 4
series
Old Fort and Bounty GCC storm to huge wins on opening day
BOUNTY GCC and Old Fort captured impressive wins in the men’s open category on Tuesday when the Guyana Hockey Board kicked off action in their top 4 series being played throughout the week at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue.
Bounty GCC took a commanding 8-3 victory over club mates GCC Outlaws.
It was Kareem Mackenzie that got the ball rolling for Bounty when he converted a penalty corner 7 minutes into the contest.
Luke Sargeant then equalised for Outlaws 2 minutes later. Goals then followed off the sticks of Bounty players Mark Ser -
geant, Kevin Spencer, Marcus Fiedtkou and another from Mackenzie give Bounty the 5-1 advantage.
Sargeant pulled back the lead with his second, 5-2 the score read, however subsequent field goals from Dwayne Scott and Lennox Carrol put Bounty’s lead beyond Outlaws reach.
Tariq Nelson scored another consolation goal for Outlaws before Scott wrapped up the 8-3 victory to start off their campaign with a bang.
Old Fort also trounced Saint Stanislaus squad 6-2 after a double from Shaquon Favorite Simeons Moore, Jason de Santos, Quinn Tobin and Donnell Alleyne scored the
other field goals in the comfortable victory.
Keeland Cummings and Shakeem Fausette scored Saints goals in the losing effort.
In the open women’s category GBTI GCC draw 2-2 with Saint’s ladies and GBTI GCC also drew with Old Fort women 3-3.
The Guyana Hockey Board’s Technical Director Robert Fernandes says the senior competition was necessary to provide matches for the senior club squads ahead of important upcoming competitions.
“The opportunity to provide the senior club teams with some court time, so they can be better prepared for the senior national cham-
pionships in October and the Diamond Mineral International Indoor in November and what has happen in the past because of the high demand for time in the gymnasium it is difficult to put down the floor early so teams can get enough practice time ahead of time, so at times our local teams are not as well prepared as the foreign teams coming in so we try to get them more court time, so that they can be more competitive.”
Meanwhile, in the National Junior Indoor competition which is running in tandem with the senior competition, the first game was a walk over for GCC Spartans, as Hikers were no shows.
Gayle leaps to silver, completes medal set in dramatic Tokyo final
TOKYO, Japan, (CMC )—
IN a thrilling men’s long jump final that came down to the final rounds, Jamaica’s Tajay Gayle captured the silver medal with a season’s best leap of 8.34m here on Wednesday at the World Athletics Championships.
The medal completes a full set of World Championships hardware for Gayle, adding to the gold he won in Doha in 2019 and the bronze he secured in Budapest two years ago.
Gayle seized the lead immediately, launching a massive 8.33m jump in the very first round.
He held onto the top spot until the fifth round, where he was overtaken by Italy’s 20-year-old rising star, Mattia Furlani, who soared to a personal best of 8.39m to claim a stunning gold medal.
“Well, being on the podium honestly is a very good feeling,” Gayle said after the competition. It’s great to have three medals now for Jamaica: bronze, silver, and gold. I was hoping for the gold, really, but unfortunately, my hamstring wasn’t
Jamaica’s Tajay Gayle captured the silver medal with a season’s best leap of 8.34m on Wednesday at the World Athletics Championships
giving me much today.”
Gayle revealed he has been battling a sore hamstring since the preliminary rounds. “I tried my best to try to get it on the first jump, but I knew after that, I didn’t have much to offer… It was a great competition, though.
The Italian, deserved it.”
Furlani, the indoor world champion, now becomes the youngest ever winner of the World Athletics long jump
title. China’s Yuhao Shi took the bronze medal with a season’s best of 8.33m.
Gayle’s silver brought Jamaica’s medal tally at the championships to six, one gold, four silver, and one bronze.
On the track, Jamaica’s sprinters continued to impress. In the men’s 200m, Christopher Taylor, Adrian Kerr, and Bryan Levell all secured their spots in the
The other schedule contest was a draw between Hikers Hatchets and Old Fort with both clashes in the Under 17 boy’s category.
The tournaments run until Sunday September 21st at the National Gymnasium.
The junior competition is sponsored by Sunshine Snacks and Igloo Ice-Cream. The categories are Under -13 (mixed), Under -17, and Under -21 (male and female) featuring 10 Under-13 teams, eight Under-17 teams, and five Under-21 teams.
Pakistan set up India match with win over UAE
semi-finals.
Taylor and Kerr finished third in their respective heats, while Levell powered to a first-place finish with the fastest ever 200m heat, clocking 19.84 seconds to lead the qualifiers into Thursday semi semi-finals.
On the women’s side, Shericka Jackson looked dominant, winning her 200m heat in 22.33 seconds. She was joined in the next round by Ashanti Moore, who placed second in her heat in 22.57.
Shiann Salmon continued her strong season, clocking a season’s best of 54.03 seconds to qualify for the final of the women’s 400m hurdles.
In the field, Jordan Scott made light work of qualifying for the men’s triple jump final, sealing his spot with a first-round effort of 17.19m.
Grenada’s two-time world champion Anderson Peters led the qualifiers in the men’s javelin with a season’s best throw of 89.53m. Keshorn Walcott of Trinidad & Tobago also punched his ticket to the final with his best effort of 83.93m.
Sunday
PAKISTAN set up another meeting against India with a 41-run victory over the United Arab Emirates at the Asia Cup.
The match began an hour late in Dubai amid the ongoing fallout from Sunday's game against India, and Pakistan's win to secure a place in the Super Four stage of the competition means the story will continue.
With India already qualified, the pair will play each other again on Sunday in Dubai.
The pre-match uncertainty carried into the start of the Pakistan innings and they quickly slipped to 9-2 with UAE seamer Junaid Siddique (4-18) removing both openers, including Saim Ayub for a third duck in five innings.
Fakhar Zaman helped get the innings back on track, scoring 50 from 36 balls, but Pakistan got themselves into trouble
again at 93-6 soon after he was dismissed.
Just as was the case against India, it took a late cameo from Shaheen Afridi, who hit three sixes in his 29 from 14, to take them to a more respectable total - 146-9.
Afridi then made his mark with the ball, taking the first of three wickets in the powerplay as the UAE were reduced to 37-3.
A 48-run partnership between Rahul Chopra and Dhruv Parashar kept the UAE in contention but with the required rate steadily climbing, both were dismissed and a collapse to 105 all out ensued with the last wicket going down in the 18th over.
WHY WAS THE MATCH DELAYED?
Pakistan said India's players refused to shake hands after
(Turn to page 21)
Old Fort Kendra Gordon saves a shot from GCC’s captain Abosaide Cadogan
Pakistan's victory means they will play India again on
Gudakesh Motie of Guyana Amazon Warriors celebrates the dismissal of Tim David of Saint Lucia Kings during the Men's 2025 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League Qualifier-1, match 32 between Guyana Amazon Warriors and Saint Lucia Kings at Guyana National Stadium on September 17, 2025 in Providence, Guyana (Photo by Randy
Republic Bank CPL Qualifier 1
MoM Motie spins Warrior to Sunday’s CPL final
Hosein to lead West Indies for Nepal T20 series
ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – In a strategic move focusing on the future, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has named a bold 15-man squad for the landmark three-match T20 International series against Nepal in the UAE later this month.
The series, scheduled for September 27-30 at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, marks a significant first-ever bilateral clash between the two nations.
More importantly, it serves as a crucial building block in the West Indies’ long-term preparation for the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup, which will be hosted in subcontinent conditions.
By Sean Devers
TWO-time defending
Champions Barbados Royals beat Guyana Amazon Warriors by three wickets yesterday at the Providence Stadium in the final of their Massy Women’s CPL to finish unbeaten in the three-team tournament to claim a hat-trick of titles.
The win was the Royals’
ninth consecutive victory against the Warriors since the WCPL began in 2022.
Player-of-the-Match was
Aaliyah Alleyne, who made an unbeaten 17 from nine balls with a six and four after taking 1-32 in the Warriors’ innings
Sri Lankan Chamari
Athapaththu (25), Kycia Knight (31), Courtney Webb (31) and an unfinished 27-
run eight-wicket partnership between Alleyne and Shreyanka Patil, 10 from six balls with two fours, got the Royals to 137-7 in 19.4 overs.
Off-spinner Ashmini Munisar (3-21) and leg-spinner Nyia Latchman (2-31) were the main wicket takers for the home team.
The Warriors had made 136-6 off their 20 overs as Amy Hunter (29), Skipper
Shemaine Campbelle (28), Dane van Niekerk (27*) and Laura Harris (18) contributed with bat in a losing cause.
The Warriors were invited to bat before virtually empty stands in hot conditions.
Realeanna Grimmond hit Sheneta Grimmond for three boundaries while Hunter stroked Athapaththu for four.
With the matches falling outside the ICC’s Future Tours Programme, selectors have opted to rest several senior players, instead turning to a crop of exciting emerging talent.
The squad has been heavily influenced by standout performances in the recent inaugural West Indies Breakout League and the ongoing Caribbean Premier League.
firepower from former West Indies head coach Ottis Gibson, who joins the touring party as a fast-bowling consultant.
Former West Indies fast bowler Jerome Taylor, spinner Nikita Miller and Jamal Smith will also perform assistant coaching duties.
CWI’s Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, emphasised the dual significance of the tour. “This series against Nepal is another important step in broadening the horizons of West Indies cricket,”
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The experienced Rayon Griffith will lead the Team Management Unit as Head Coach, receiving significant
Left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein will captain a West Indies side featuring six potential debutants against Nepal
Champions Barbados Royals celebrate their title win (Yohan Savory photo)
Quinten Sampson on the attack (Japhet Savory photo)
