UNITED States (U.S.) Ambassador to Guyana, Nichole Theriot, has said that the U.S. government is “100 per cent committed” to pursuing the extradition of indicted businessman Nazar “Shell” Mohamed and his son Azruddin Mohamed.
Speaking on the sidelines of the 2026 Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo during an interview aired on the News Room, Theriot noted that the U.S. is adamant in seeing that justice is served both for Guyanese and U.S. citizens.
“I want to make it incredibly clear that the US is 100 per cent committed to seeing this through. It is incredibly important to us that these proceedings continue and that a decision is ultimately made. Obviously, we hope it will be a certain decision,” she said on Wednesday, adding:
“The US government does not spend tens of thousands of US taxpayer dollars to request extradition if we’re not serious. We want to see this happen, and we want to see justice served, both for the Guyanese and the US people. So, we are very hopeful that the proceedings will continue apace, and we’ll get a decision relatively soon.”
Extradition proceedings had begun in late 2025 at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, with there being sever-
al adjournments since; most recently due to the health issues reported by the older Mohamed.
Theriot noted that the U.S. will continue to respect the due course of the law here in Guyana but stressed that authorities are committed to seeing the case through.
“We have to be respectful of the Guyanese judicial system, and the ball is in your court, as they say. And so, we are content to wait and see what happens. I have every faith that things are going to proceed, and the right decision will be made. We’re watching from afar.
We’re not interfering, but we’re very, very interested in the outcome, and we’re fully committed to seeing this through,” the Ambassador said.
Earlier on Wednesday, Nazar Mohamed, who was present in court, told Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman that he was experiencing tightness in his chest and was not fit to participate in hearings for the remainder of the week.
The latest medical update comes against the backdrop of growing questions over the legitimacy and consistency of the health-related claims advanced in the matter, par-
PRESIDENT Dr. Mohamed
Irfaan Ali has urged Guyanese to make compassion a national value, and ensure that the country’s growing prosperity benefits all citizens, as Muslims across Guyana and around the world observe the Holy Month of Ramadan.
In his Ramadan 2026 message, the Head of State extended greetings to the Muslim community, while emphasising that the lessons of the sacred period extend beyond religion, and speak to national unity, social responsibility, and collective care.
Describing Ramadan as a time of reflection, fasting, and spiritual renewal, President Ali said the observance also challenges individuals and the nation to consider their obligations to one another. He noted that the teachings of the Holy Quran emphasise righteousness through action, including generosity to the needy, patience during hardship, and faithfulness to commitments.
The President highlighted Guyana’s rapid economic transformation, stating that the country is experiencing unprecedented growth and opportunity. However, he cautioned that development must be measured not only by economic indicators but by how widely its benefits are shared.
“Our nation is building wealth at a pace we have never known,” he said, adding that citizens must ask whether progress is lifting everyone. He stressed that strong societies are built when people see themselves as responsible for the well-being of others.
Quoting Islamic teachings on mercy and compassion, President Ali called on all sectors of society to demonstrate greater social responsibility. He encouraged business leaders to balance profitability with inclusion by creating opportunities for vulnerable groups, and urged Muslims observing Ramadan to give generously through
The President also appealed to citizens to recognise that meaningful contributions are not limited to financial donations. Acts such as volunteering time, advocating for fairness and supporting those in distress, he said, are equally important expressions of generosity.
Addressing the Muslim community directly, he expressed hope that fasting and prayer would bring spiritual fulfilment and peace, while wishing blessings for families observing the holy month.
President Ali concluded by calling for a renewed national commitment to unity and compassion, urging Guyanese to build a society where economic growth serves people and strengthens collective well-being.
He extended Ramadan greetings to the nation, offering prayers for guidance, righteousness, and continued blessings for the Republic.
ticularly given the repeated delays linked to Nazar Mohamed’s reported condition and the case.
No formal medical evidence has been presented to the court thus far.
Back in October, the duo had been ordered to lodge their passports at the court and granted bail in the sum of $150,000 each.
A federal grand jury in Miami had returned an indictment charging the father and son with participating in a multi-year scheme to evade millions of dollars in taxes and royalties owed to the Government of Guyana through fraudulent gold export practices and related money laundering activities.
According to court documents, Nazar Mohamed, 72, and Azruddin Mohamed, 38, were owners of Mohamed’s Enterprise, a gold wholesaler and exporter in Guyana that sold gold to buyers in Miami and Dubai.
Guyanese authorities im-
pose approximately a seven-per cent tax and duty on exported gold. From about 2017 through at least 2024, the pair allegedly enriched themselves and defrauded the Government of Guyana by concealing the true quantity and value of gold exported by their company.
The indictment alleges that the couple devised a system in which Mohamed’s Enterprise paid taxes and royalties on one shipment of gold to obtain official government seals, then reused those same seals on subsequent shipments to avoid paying additional taxes and royalties. To further their scheme, they allegedly shipped empty boxes bearing Guyanese government seals from Dubai through Miami to Guyana and paid bribes to customs and other government officials to facilitate the illegal shipments.
In total, the pair allegedly exported at least 10,000 kilograms of gold through
Miami, causing an estimated loss of approximately $50 million to the Government of Guyana.
Nazar Mohamed is charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering, conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, and mail fraud. His son Azruddin Mohamed is charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering and wire fraud. The indictment also alleges that Azruddin Mohamed engaged in a separate scheme to evade over $1 million in Guyanese taxes in connection with the shipment of a Lamborghini from Miami to Guyana. The indictment also seeks forfeiture of approximately $5.3 million in gold bars shipped by Mohamed’s Enterprise that were seized at the Miami International Airport on June 11, 2024. Both were sanctioned by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control in June 2024.
FOR years, the lives of incarcerated women in colonial Guyana existed only in fragments, scattered across disciplinary reports, punishment books, and archival silences.
Now, those voices have been gathered, restored, and placed at the centre of history in a powerful new book: “Slavery, Indentureship, and Women’s Labor Early British Guiana’s Jails” by Dr Estherine Adams, Head of the Department of History and Caribbean Studies in the Faculty of Education and Humanities at the University of Guyana.
Building on her award-winning research, Dr Adams has released a fulllength scholarly work that offers the most comprehensive account to date of women’s imprisonment and labour in early British Guiana. The book traces the hidden histories of African and Indian women whose lives were shaped by colonial systems of punishment, coercion, and control, revealing how prisons functioned not merely as sites of discipline, but as crucial engines of labour in the colonial economy.
The publication comes on the heels of international recognition for Dr Adams’ earlier article, “At Work, in Hospital, or in Gaol: Women in British Guiana’s Jails, 1838–1917,” which recently won the ASSLH Edna Ryan Prize for Best Article on Women’s History (2023–2024). The judges praised the paper for its originality, theoretical depth, and human sensitivity, describing it as “beautifully written to imagine and illuminate the lives of female indentured labourers in British Guiana.”
While the prize-winning
article made a significant intervention into debates about prison labour and women’s incarceration, Dr Adams noted that the book allowed her to go much further. “The article revealed the limits of the format. Expanding the research into a book has allowed me to fully develop the historical arc of women’s imprisonment and to situate it more clearly within wider debates about colonial labour regimes, gender, and punishment,” She added. The book moves beyond a single period or argument, tracing women’s experiences across a much longer historical span, including the pre-emancipation era. It incorporates a broader range of archival voices and explores everyday strategies of survival, resistance, and negotiation within carceral spaces.
Through micro-histories and individual cases, Dr Adams constructs a layered, deeply human narrative of women
en’s prison, work gangs, and moments of discipline and resistance. Across its pages, readers encounter recurring themes of coerced labour, race, gendered punishment, and the blurred lines between welfare and control in colonial governance.
For Guyanese and Caribbean readers in particular, the book holds significance. It recovers a neglected dimension of regional history and places women at the centre of narratives about colonial power. “This book is about more than prisons. It is about how power operated through gender, race, and labour, and how ordinary women navigated and sometimes challenged that power. These histories continue to shape our legal and social institutions today,” she explained.
who were often rendered invisible in official records.
Organised both thematically and chronologically, the book begins with the development of colonial prison systems during the Dutch occupation, before moving into chapters on key sites such as the first all-wom -
The work speaks not only to scholars of slavery, indentureship, gender studies, and carceral history, but also to anyone interested in understanding Guyana’s past through the lives of those long erased from the record. It stands as both an academic contribution and an act of
historical recovery.
Through this remarkable publication, Dr Estherine Adams ensures that the whispered lives of colonial Guyanese women are no longer confined to archival margins, but recognised as central to understanding the region’s history, not as footnotes, but as voices finally
heard. Dr Adams’ achievement also reflects the growing international impact of scholarship produced at the University of Guyana. The book is available in hardcover, paperback, and e-book formats and is scheduled for official release in October.
Public-private partnerships seen as critical to sustaining Guyana’s economic growth
PUBLIC-private partnerships (PPPs) are increasingly being viewed as a central pillar in Guyana’s economic transformation, with government and private sector leaders pointing to collaboration as essential for sustaining growth and expanding opportunities across multiple industries.
The importance of these partnerships was underscored during a panel discussion at the Guyana Energy Conference, where Private Sector Commission (PSC) Chairman Gerald Gouveia Jr., Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) President Kathy Smith, SBM Offshore (Guyana) General Manager Martin Cheong, and Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA) Chief Executive Officer Dr. Martin Pertab examined the evolving role of PPPs in national development.
For years, the Government of Guyana has pursued joint initiatives with private investors in areas such as infrastructure development, including roads, bridges and schools, while also introducing tax incentives and policy reforms aimed at improving the ease of doing business. More recently, collaboration within the oil and gas sector, particularly with companies such as ExxonMobil and SBM Offshore, has expanded employment opportunities and accelerated economic activity.
Gouveia said the private sector cannot function independently of government policy, noting that successful partnerships depend on a stable investment framework created by the state.
“We cannot operate based on our own rules. We have to operate in an investment environment created by government,” he said, describing this framework as the foundation upon which public-private partnerships are built.
According to him, the key challenge lies in creating incentives that encourage investment and participation by businesses. He pointed to examples where government support helped local enterprises expand beyond Guyana’s borders, including a local modular housing company that now exports thousands of homes annually across the Caribbean following government-backed promotion and negotiations.
Gouveia also highlighted new co-investment opportunities and support mechanisms being introduced for entrepreneurs. At the PSC level, a business support desk has been established to provide free consulting services to startups, assisting with business plans and feasibility studies to make ventures more attractive to financing institutions.
Meanwhile, Smith focused on the readiness of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to participate in PPP arrangements, describing them as the backbone of the private sector. She noted that approximately 70 per cent of the GCCI’s roughly 1,000 members fall within the MSME category.
Smith said initiatives linking small producers with regional markets demonstrate how partnerships can create tangible opportunities. She cited a programme through which local businesses can supply goods that are then exported to markets in Trinidad and Barbados through established distribution networks.
She added that collaborative initiatives are also emerging in the social sector, including discussions with government agencies to establish shared housing facilities for women through public-private arrangements.
According to Smith, MSMEs are not only prepared to engage in PPPs but are already benefiting from expanding collaboration between government and industry.
Previously, President Dr. Irfaan Ali said his administration intends to use partnerships with the business community to guide Guyana toward sustainable economic growth. He has urged investors to capitalise on opportunities in agriculture, aquaculture, housing, tourism, healthcare and exports, while ensuring that economic gains extend beyond businesses to employees and communities.
The President has maintained that broader participation in development initiatives will support equitable wealth creation and ensure that the benefits of economic expansion reach citizens across all levels of society.
THE United States has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Guyana’s rapidly expanding energy sector, highlighting investment, financing, and technical collaboration during this year’s energy conference in Georgetown.
Representatives of the United States are participating in the Guyana Energy Conference (GEC) and Supply Chain Expo, being held from February 17–20, where government officials, industry leaders, and regional stakeholders are examining opportunities to advance energy development and strengthen partnerships.
Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Coop-
Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Cooperation at the US Department of Energy Aleshia Duncan joined a panel discussion focused on project financing and public-private partnerships, underscoring Washington’s interest in expanding international collaboration and mobilising investment to support sustainable energy growth
eration at the US Department of Energy, Aleshia Duncan, joined a panel discussion focused on project financing and public-private partnerships, underscoring Wash -
ington’s interest in expanding international collaboration and mobilising investment to support sustainable energy growth.
According to information
released by the US Embassy, American investment continues to play a significant role in Guyana’s evolving energy landscape. The Export-Import Bank of the
United States has approved US$527 million in financing for Guyana’s gas-to-energy project, regarded as the country’s largest infrastructure initiative, and a central
component of its long-term energy expansion strategy.
The project is expected to double installed electricity capacity, and support a shift away from imported fuel oil towards natural gas-powered generation, which officials say will provide more reliable and cleaner energy, while lowering electricity costs.
US officials noted that continued cooperation with Guyana is aimed at strengthening energy security, encouraging economic growth, and promoting a more sustainable regional energy future, as the country positions itself as a major emerging energy producer.
TOURISM development in the North Rupununi is set to receive a major boost following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA).
The agreement, which is intended to strengthen community-based tourism and expand sustainable travel opportunities in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), essentially focuses on marketing, product development, and capacity building, including the establishment of a community tourism training institute at the Iwokrama River Lodge at Kurupukari.
The initiative is intended to equip residents with skills needed to participate more directly in the growing tourism sector while supporting conservation efforts.
The collaboration comes as Guyana continues to see steady growth in visitor arrivals. According to tourism officials, the country recorded its highest January arrivals on record in 2026, welcoming 34,923 visitors, a 17.2 per cent increase compared with January 2025, with further growth projected in the coming years.
Iwokrama has historically played a central role in tourism development in the North Rupununi, serving as a key link between Georgetown and hinterland
destinations. Several former employees of the Centre’s tourism operations have since gone on to lead tourism initiatives within their own communities.
Chief Executive Officer of Iwokrama, Dane Gobin said the agreement reflects alignment between the two organisations in advancing community tourism. He noted that the Centre remains the only internationally certified area for recreational services in the region, and has maintained international sustainability recognition through the Good Travel Seal certification, first awarded in 2023, and renewed in 2026 following continued environmental and operational
improvements.
Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority, Kamrul Baksh described the MOU as an important step toward strengthening collaboration between the agencies, emphasising a shared commitment to sustainable tourism that protects natural resources while creating economic opportunities for local communities.
The partnership also builds on ongoing government efforts to position Guyana as a leading nature-based tourism destination, with increased emphasis on community participation and conservation-focused travel experiences.
Iwokrama also ac -
knowledged continued support from the Government of Guyana and local part-
ners, including the North Rupununi District Development Board, which has
played a key role in supporting tourism initiatives across the region.
GUYANA is at a very important point in its modern history.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s speech at the start of the 2026 Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo laid out a bold plan: Use the country’s oil and gas wealth today to ensure its future.
It was clear that Guyana doesn’t just want to be a part of the global energy scene; it wants to help shape it.
The Kingston Marriott Hotel hosted the conference, which had the theme “Building Tomorrow’s Future Today.” Companies from more than 30 countries came, showing how much interest there is in Guyana right now.
That attention is a chance and a duty at the same time. Having a lot of oil can speed up development, but history shows that countries with a lot of resources only do well when they have both ambition and careful planning and governance that includes everyone.
President Ali’s focus on working together and making partnerships is therefore timely. Modern energy development isn’t just about getting resources anymore; it also needs
technology, infrastructure, logistics, and connections to regional markets.
Guyana’s plans to build a deepwater port, increase gas-to-energy capacity, and revive its hydroelectric goals show that it knows that long-term prosperity can’t depend only on crude oil exports.
It’s true that the government’s view of energy as the key to economic change is based on a real fact.
For technology to be used, food to be made, industries to grow, and the climate to be able to handle change, power needs to be cheap and dependable.
The Gas-to-Energy project and renewed interest in the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project are two examples of investments that show an effort to balance fossil fuel revenues with cleaner energy sources.
This is a necessary step as global energy systems change.
But just having ambition won’t make you successful. The problems that were brought up at the conference, such as a lack of workers, gaps in technology, and climate vulnerability, are real and need to be dealt
with right away.
If not carefully managed, the oil and gas industry could grow too quickly for the country’s people and institutions to keep up.
Guyana could still need foreign experts even as its economy grows if it doesn’t improve its workforce and transfer technology.
The global context is also very important. Conference surveys show that people are hopeful about Guyana’s future, but there is still a lot of uncertainty around the world because of geopolitical tensions, rising living costs, and climate change.
These pressures make it even more important to diversify. We need to put oil money into areas that will last beyond the oil boom, like agriculture, manufacturing, services, and renewable energy.
The President’s request for several international partners to have a stake in Guyana’s growth is a smart geopolitical move.
Broad partnerships can lower risk, bring in more money, and make the region more connected, especially through infrastructure that connects Guyana to Brazil and the rest of the Caribbean.
But this kind of cooperation needs to be based on openness and the best interests of the country to make sure that all citizens benefit from development.
In the end, the future of Guyana’s energy sector will depend on how well its projects work, not how big they are. Will new investments lead to jobs that last? Will better infrastructure make us better able to deal with climate threats? Will energy wealth lessen the gap between rich and poor and make life better for everyone?
The nation is no longer getting ready for change; it is going through it. President Ali’s call for boldness may be needed in a world where energy is changing quickly. But being brave must go along with being responsible, making plans for the long term, and including everyone.
The biggest problem for Guyana right now is not finding resources, but using them wisely. If the country does well, it could show other small states how to turn their energy wealth into long-term growth.
The President said that the moment is now.
FROM 1987, Stabroek News (SN) became a part of the physiology of Guyana. From 1987, post-Burnham Guyana was made of the stuff that would make any independent daily newspaper a colossal success, and SN was a huge success.
The paper did not spare President Hoyte’s government its wrath. SN probed the exercise of power since its birth in 1986, the way the Catholic Standard did before SN was born. The postponement of the 1990 general election and the pressure on Hoyte to hold free and fair elections were issues that SN vigorously and relentlessly pursued.
As the Cheddi Jagan presidency settled into power, SN still ruled the waves. People wanted to read SN, especially after post-election violence in 1997. In 1994, a rival newspaper, Kaieteur News (KN) came on the scene. But it made not even an infinitesimal dent to SN’s standing and circulation. Two reasons explain this. SN was a daily with enormous resources, and all classes in society wanted to read it.
Secondly, KN was a weekend newspaper that appealed to a tiny section of the population and appeared to people as a sleazy, sensationalist tabloid. Each week, its front page was a half-naked woman. KN appealed only to a tiny section of the nation that wanted to read about sordid things that were happening on the streets. SN then had nothing to be afraid of.
It was the post-election violence and widespread violence against Indians in 1997 that motivated KN to undergo a transformation. The paper wanted to be a daily, mainstream newspaper that, though not neglecting
the sub-culture stratum it catered for, wanted to go in the direction of politics, crime, and other social occurrences.
From 1998, KN began to seriously compete with SN for circulation patronage for two reasons. The average man/woman in the street perceived SN to be a middle-class newspaper that did not cater to their interest, so KN became their favourite. Secondly, and more importantly, the nature of a newspaper determines the type of staff it employs. SN relied on stiff, lower-middle-class journalists without any deep roots in society in general.
KN, on the other hand, went for the type of journalists that had connections with the police, the hospitals, the market culture, and the rural landscape. What KN began to do is to report on mainstream happenings while preserving its original direction. The result was that the lawyers, doctors, intellectuals, business class, politicians, government officials, etc., began to seek out KN while KN still catered to its subculture genres. The result was a widening circulation for KN with the attendant widening of circulation.
The death blow for SN came with the Buxton massacres, which started with the Mash 2002 Camp Street jailbreak. KN simply had the journalistic entourage that could get information from the police, the people of Buxton, the government, the opposition, friends of the gunmen, and the extrajudicial operatives. SN simply did not have the type of journalists that had contacts with these dimensions of Guyanese society.
From 2002, if the nation and the Caribbean region wanted to know what was happening in Guyana, they read KN. They read KN
because the KN scoops were coming in daily, and SN was falling behind badly. It would be no exaggeration to say KN outran SN by millions of miles in scoops about governmental behavior and the crime scene from 2002.
The Buxton massacres exposed the original birth defect of SN. It was patterned after the serious broadsheets in the US and UK. But Guyana was a different country with a small population; therefore, a newspaper in Guyana could not survive with a style like the Times of London. By the time the Buxton violence subsided in 2008, KN had significantly outperformed SN in terms of circulation and advertising.
SN looked down on KN and its staff and referred to KN as a gutter tabloid. That was unfair because while KN kept it news about a fight in the market or a fight in a mini-bus, KN still pursued stories on crime, politics, power, and wealth. The middle class and the wealthy class that read SN also read KN.
The vigorous competition KN gave SN resulted in bad blood between the two newspapers. I will close with three examples, all of which I witnessed. At a midday luncheon at the now-defunct WaterChris Restaurant, David DeCaires refused to shake the hand of KN owner Glen Lall when Lall extended his hand. At a sports function at Sidewalk Café, when KN sports reporter Rawle Welch got up to introduce himself as representing KN, SN General Manager, Doreen DeCaires, shouted across the room, yelling out that KN was no proper newspaper. Thirdly, SN issued an editorial note accusing KN of buying information from the police. Part 4 is coming up.
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.
EXTRADITION proceedings against US-indicted businessman Nazar “Shell” Mohamed and his son Azruddin Mohamed were again delayed on Wednesday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, after the defence sought a further adjournment on medical grounds, and raised fresh procedural objections.
When the matter was called before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman, Defence Attorney Siand Dhurjon informed the court that Nazar Mohamed was still unwell and had previously been diagnosed with a heart condition.
Counsel asked the court to exercise discretion and allow additional time for rest and recovery.
No formal medical report was submitted to the court, which brings into question the legitimacy of the older Mohamed’s claim of ill health.
Nazar, who was present in court, told the Magistrate that he was experiencing tightness in his chest and was not fit to participate in hearings for the remainder
of the week.
“I’m really not feeling well; I still have the tightness in the chest, and cramps in both legs and hands,” said.
He informed the court that he was also suffering from high blood pressure; however, when pressed further by the magistrate on his most recent visit to a cardiologist, Nazar disclosed that his specialised physician was currently on leave, and that attempts to seek out another specialist at a private facility had been futile.
In light of the update, Magistrate Latchman adjourned the proceedings to February 26, 2026, when the court is expected to convene for a full-day hearing from 09:00 hrs.
Following the brief medical update, the court heard submissions on a significant procedural issue that could shape the course of the extradition process.
The central question is whether the committal phase should proceed under the paper committal framework introduced by the Criminal Law Procedure Act 2024, or whether the provisions of the Fugitive Offenders
US-indicted businessman Nazar “Shell” Mohamed on Wednesday told the court he e was experiencing tightness in his chest and was not fit to participate in hearings for the remainder of the week
Act require a traditional oral preliminary inquiry with the opportunity for cross-examination.
Prosecutor Terrance Williams submitted that the 2024 legislative reforms allow for paper committal in certain circumstances, and argued that this approach could be appropriately applied in the present extradition proceedings.
However, defence counsel opposed this position,
maintaining that the specific evidential safeguards contained in the Fugitive Offenders Act must prevail, thereby necessitating an oral inquiry, where the defence can challenge the evidence through cross-examination.
Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde, who is among the attorneys representing the Mohameds, said the application of paper committal in an extradition case would deprive the accused persons of the right to interrogate the evidence via cross-examination.
After hearing the competing arguments, Magistrate Latchman directed the pros-
ecution to file written submissions on the procedural point to assist the court in determining the appropriate legal pathway for the extradition hearing.
The Mohameds, owners of Mohamed’s Enterprise, who remain on $150,000 bail each, have surrendered their passports, and must report weekly to the Ruimveldt Police Station as the extradition proceedings continue. They were taken into custody on October 31, 2025, following a request from the US for their extradition.
US prosecutors have accused the father and son
of running an international criminal network with alleged links to high offices in Venezuela and the Middle East.
The pair faces 11 criminal counts in the US Southern District of Florida involving alleged wire fraud, mail fraud, money laundering, conspiracy, and customs violations tied to what authorities describe as a US$50 million gold export and tax-evasion scheme.
The US Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned both men in June 2024 for alleged gold smuggling and public corruption.
GUYANA’S energy expansion ranks among the most significant developments worldwide, Dan Ammann, President of ExxonMobil’s Upstream Company and Vice-President of ExxonMobil Corporation, has said.
Addressing the opening of the 2026 Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, he described Guyana as “perhaps the most exceptional energy development anywhere in the world.”
Ammann highlighted the rapid progress on the Stabroek Block, pointing to multiple projects brought online ahead of schedule and under budget. He said the development was already transforming Guyana through new infrastructure, jobs and local supplier opportunities, and stressed the company’s com-
mitment to responsibly developing both oil and natural gas.
“From that vantage point, I can say very confidently that Guyana is perhaps the most exceptional energy development anywhere in the world, not only due to the scale of the resource offshore, but how it’s being developed, how it’s being managed, and importantly, what it is enabling onshore.”
Ammann pointed to the country’s plans for its flagship Gas-to-Energy (GTE) project designed to lower domestic electricity costs and reduce emissions, as among the massive investments being made to promote long term sustainability.
“Energy development is transforming this country. You can see it everywhere, new construction, hospitals, clinics, schools, roads, bridg-
es, shops and stores, unification projects, community centres and recreation. More importantly, you can see it in terms of human capital, the creation of new jobs, expanding business opportunities, improvements in health and real progress in education.”
He emphasised that oil alone does not create wealth,
noting that good governance, stable institutions and sound policies are equally critical. Guyana, he said, has been deliberate in establishing those foundations.
“There are three winning ingredients to a successful oil and gas development. First, invest where we see durable and high - quality resources,
scalable developments and strong, reliable partners. Second, execute with discipline so that the projects are competitive through the cycles, not just when prices are high.
And third, operate with excellence in project completion, safety, reliability and continuous improvement in environmental performance.”
He added: “From a global perspective, Guyana has set a new standard, showing what can happen when a country marries a world - class resource with wise leadership and responsible citizenship.”
Reaffirming ExxonMobil’s position, he said the company remains committed to developing Guyana’s gas resources and maximising their value for the country, moving in step with the Gov-
ernment of Guyana to monetise those resources.
“Let me be clear about ExxonMobil’s commitment: we are committed to developing Guyana’s gas and maximising its value and impact for the country.
And we are committed to moving as fast as the Government of Guyana in doing what it takes to monetise the resource as rapidly, safely and smartly as possible.”
He remarked that Guyana’s energy development is not defined solely by production figures, but by the broader social and economic progress it supports.
“The Guyana energy story is an exceptional one, but it’s not a story of oil and gas development. It’s a story about what oil and gas can enable.”
Limited is preparing to seek environmental approval for a second offshore natural gas project, a move that could significantly broaden Guyana’s energy sector and lay the groundwork for major industrial development, particularly in Berbice.
Speaking on the second day of the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, President of ExxonMobil Guyana, Alistair Routledge, said the company expects to submit a request for environmental authorisation within the coming weeks or months for the proposed development in the southeast section of the Stabroek Block.
The planned project signals a further diversification of Guyana’s rapidly expanding oil and gas
industry, building on momentum generated by the country’s first Gas-to-Energy initiative and growing confidence in its natural gas resources.
“We anticipate that in the coming weeks — the next couple of months — we will likely submit a request for environmental authorisation for a second gas project in the southeast part of the Stabroek Block,” Routledge told delegates.
Although Guyana has historically not been known as a gas-producing nation, recent discoveries and ongoing infrastructure planning have strengthened prospects for commercial gas development. Routledge noted that natural gas projects are generally more complex than oil production but said increasing resource confidence and stakehold-
er support are making the venture more viable.
He explained that developing a full gas value chain remains the primary objective, allowing gas to support domestic industries while opening new export opportunities. Potential uses range from energy generation to petrochemical production and other industrial applications.
Drawing comparisons with Trinidad and Tobago’s long-established gasbased economy, Routledge said successful monetisation requires diversified uses, including liquefied natural gas exports and downstream manufacturing. Guyana, he noted, is still in the early stages, as it currently lacks a developed onshore gas market.
The executive also referenced the government’s broader vision to expand
gas utilisation beyond electricity generation, including plans linked to industrial development initiatives associated with the Wales Gas-to-Energy project.
According to Routledge, three critical pillars will determine the success of the proposed project and Guyana’s wider gas ambitions: sustained confidence in the resource, development of adequate onshore infrastructure, and continued collaboration between government, industry and regional partners.
Preliminary work has already begun on key technical considerations, including pipeline design, capacity requirements and potential onshore delivery points.
The proposed development aligns with ExxonMobil’s longer-term plans,
Alistair Routledge, President of ExxonMobil Guyana Ltd, speaking on the second day of Guyana’s Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo (Ministry of Natural Resources photo)
which include supplying natural gas to a potential offshore LNG export facility and supporting new industries in Berbice, such as alumina and fertiliser production, as well as possible data centre operations.
If approved and im-
plemented, the initiative could accelerate industrial expansion and position Berbice as a major hub for gas-based manufacturing, further transforming Guyana’s energy landscape as the sector continues its rapid evolution.
FORTY students from St. Stanislas College, St. Roses High School, Queen’s College, and The Bishops’ High School received an inside look at Guyana’s technology sector on Wednesday during a tour of STARR Computer’s Brickdam Georgetown store, one of the country’s leading IT companies.
The visit provided students with hands-on exposure to a wide range of international digital products,
Addressing the students, Starr Computer’s Mike Mohan shared his personal story of rising from Albouystown to leading one of the nation’s foremost technology firms
including HP, Lenovo, APC, Epson, Samsung, Zebra, Custom America, ELO, and Star Micronics.
The tour also traced the company’s journey from its modest beginnings in a New York City bedroom to becoming a major IT enterprise in Guyana.
Addressing the students, Mike Mohan, President of
STARR Computer, shared his personal story of rising from Albouystown to leading one of the nation’s foremost technology firms.
After earning a Master’s Degree in Finance and serving as an executive at City Bank on Wall Street, Mohan retired to pursue his mission of creating local employment opportunities, supporting
business development, and bridging the gap between international technology provi ders and Guyanese consumers.
“Success is a choice that we all have to make on our own,” Mohan said. “I made the choice to take the path of success, not for myself alone, but to impact my community and the country.”
S tudents were introduced to the company’s interim work programmes, designed to develop young talent, and received the Student Advantage Card. Additionally, you can access Digital Education through a second QR Code on the back of the card
The digital tool provides identification, shopping credits, educational resources, and discounts, with plans to expand benefits to include interest charge reductions and partnerships with other retail outlets.
The tour concluded with a discussion on digital transformation, highlighting its significance for economic growth, increased productivity, and the modernization of business practices in Guyana.
The initiative reflects STARR Computer’s commitment to advancing technology solutions while fostering the next generation of Guyanese professionals.
By Shaniya Harding
WITH more eyes on Guyana than ever before and rapidly growing interest in the nation’s energy sector, the aim is to ensure that the sector develops equally as sustainably.
This was the sentiment shared by Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips on the second day of Guyana’s fifth Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo.
Speaking to the hundreds of delegates present at the event, the Prime Minister stated that Guyana’s commitment to clean, sustainable growth in the energy sector is highlighted through a number of major shifts within the industry.
Steps such as the addition of 186 megawatts of power to the national grid, the distribution of more than 40,000 solar panels, and expanded access to power nation-wide are just a few of the measures that highlight not only Guyana’s capacity in the sector, but also why investors should invest in the nation.
Speaking about the holistic development of Guyana’s energy sector, Prime Minister Phillips stated that now, more than ever, is a unique and important time in Guyana’s energy history.
Citing Guyana’s rich natural diversity, Phillips shared that as one of the most naturally rich nations in the world, the Government of Guyana is committed to ensuring the protection of the country’s natural assets. Referencing the Low-Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), he described Guyana’s forests and other national treasures as global assets that have supported the development of various sectors across the country.
While natural diversity is profitable, Prime Minister Phillips explained, the government remains committed to ensuring its protection alongside the development of oil, gas, and energy.
“Guyana is currently experiencing rapid economic transformation, supported, in part, by the development of our oil-and-gas sector. We recognise the opportunities this presents. Revenues from this sector are
Minister Brigadier
delegates on Day Two
being invested in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and national development,” he said, adding: “But we also recognise that this is a moment that requires careful planning and long-term vision. We do not see our present as a contradiction to our future. Instead, we see it as a bridge.”
This commitment has already yielded positive, tangible results. Citing strides made in energy in recent years, Prime Minister Phillips shared that within the last five years, the Government of Guyana has added 186 megawatts of new generating capacity to the Guyana Power and Light’s integrated system and national power grid. Moreover, energy development has also been taking place at the household level, with 37,230 solar-powered home systems distributed, installing over 37 MW of renewable energy. These steps, he added, among others, ensure clean, reliable energy and positively impacst the standard of living for thousands of Guyanese. “The development of clean and reliable energy also presents socio-economic advantages. Lower energy costs can stimulate industrial growth, support small businesses, and improve competitiveness. Access to reliable
tion network. Additionally, in 2026, works will be completed on the installation of 10 new solar mini-grids to benefit over 6,200 households in hinterland and riverain communities, while construction of a 15 MW solar farm in Linden will continue, with completion scheduled for 2027.
While the Government of Guyana remains committed to ensuring sustain-
able energy, Prime Minister Phillips added that the focus is also on ensuring that the sector can be carried forward for generations to come.
“Clean and renewable energy development is more than just technology and infrastructure. It is about the people of our nation and ensuring equity and opportunity so that every citizen benefits from
the energy transition and adverse impacts are minimised,” he added.
“This requires creating opportunities through green education and training in renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies, equipping a new workforce to lead the charge in innovation and progress against the backdrop of an evolving energy landscape.”
Phillips
electricity can transform education, healthcare, and daily life, particularly in rural and hinterland communities,” he added. “Government has been pursuing a clean and just energy transition and developing a diverse energy supply mix of natural gas and renewable energy, resulting in over 500 MW of newly installed capacity.”
Efforts to protect and build on these successes are already underway, the Prime Minister said. Under the $119.4 billion allocated for the continued implementation of the energy strategy, the Government aims to tackle a slew of projects in the coming months. He shared that the construction of natural gasfired power plants totalling 600 MW under Phases One and Two of the Gas-to-Energy Project is expected to significantly reduce emissions from the power sector and lower electricity costs for consumers. Similarly, Guyana’s first 300 MW natural gas plant will be commissioned this year.
On the note of alternative types of power, he shared that the Government will install an additional 100 MW of solar power, advance the 165 MW Amaila Falls Hydropower Project, and upgrade GPL’s transmission and distribu-
REGIONAL energy leaders have signalled a renewed commitment to cooperation and policy alignment as Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, and Suriname move to deepen partnerships aimed at strengthening energy security and supporting long-term growth across the Caribbean.
The call for closer collaboration emerged during a high-level panel on “Regional Energy Security” at the fifth Energy Conference and
Supply Chain Expo, where Guyana’s Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat joined Suriname’s Minister of Oil, Gas and Environment
Patrick Brunings and Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Energy and Energy Industries Dr. Roodal Moonilal in outlining shared priorities for sustainable development and regional integration.
Addressing delegates on Wednesday, Minister Bharrat said Guyana’s oil and gas industry has undergone rapid
expansion since first-oil production in 2019, describing the sector as being among the best managed globally among new petroleum-producing nations. He noted that national output has already surpassed 900,000 barrels of oil per day and could exceed one million barrels daily in the near future.
“We have seen the pace at which the sector has developed, from discovery in 2015 to production today of more than 900,000 barrels
per day,” Minister Bharrat said, adding that projections suggest that Guyana could approach 1.2 million barrels per day by next year’s conference.
The minister attributed the country’s progress to what he described as three key pillars: Leadership, management, and partnership. Strong governance and transparent oversight, he said, have been central to building international confidence, while regional collaboration will be essential as shared challenges emerge.
Echoing the importance of renewed cooperation, Trinidad and Tobago’s Dr. Moonilal acknowledged that while collaboration between his country and Guyana had been limited in recent years, the adoption of a new policy direction aims to change that.
He explained that the
administration of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has mandated deeper engagement with regional partners, particularly Guyana and Suriname, to align strategies and strengthen economic and energy cooperation.
Among the areas under discussion is Guyana’s potential involvement in efforts to restart Trinidad and Tobago’s Pointe-a-Pierre oil refinery, which has remained closed since 2018. Moonilal said talks are currently ongoing, noting that the refinery’s shutdown was not driven by economic viability but by challenges surrounding its re-establishment.
“We are encouraged to work with the Government of Guyana and other stakeholders present at this conference to advance the reopening of the refinery,” he said.
Suriname’s Minister Pat-
rick Brunings also underscored the importance of collaboration, highlighting the need for a balanced regional “energy mix” that combines traditional hydrocarbons with emerging energy sources.
He argued that Guyana, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago are well positioned to play a leading role in supporting the region’s energy transition, adding that closer cooperation between neighbouring producers could significantly influence regional energy stability. The discussions reflected a broader consensus among regional policymakers that deeper partnerships, alongside strong governance and diversified energy strategies, will be critical as Caribbean nations navigate rapid sector expansion and global energy transition pressures.
MORE than 3,500 primary school pupils and over 300 teachers across Guyana have been sensitised on recognising abuse and seeking help through the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s nationwide “Love Shouldn’t Hurt” School Edition campaign.
The initiative, implemented last week through the ministry’s Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Policy Unit (SODVPU), saw Survivor Advocates working alongside officers from the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) to deliver sessions in 34 primary schools across seven of the country’s ten administrative regions.
According to the ministry, the programme directly reached 3,575 learners between the ages of seven and 11, as well as 311 teachers and support staff, equipping them with knowledge aimed at preventing abuse and strengthening child
The 45-minute interactive sessions were designed to translate complex legal and safety concepts into age-appropriate lessons
protection awareness at the school level.
The 45-minute interactive sessions were designed to translate complex legal and safety concepts into age-appropriate lessons.
Under the theme “Healthy Relationships”, facilitators emphasised that love
should be linked to safety and respect, while focusing on three key areas:
Awareness of the Family Violence Act, understanding body autonomy, and access to the 914 24-hour hotline for reporting abuse and seeking assistance.
Officials said the cam-
POLICE are investigating a fatal accident on the West Coast Demerara that claimed the life of a 64-year-old electric cycle rider on Tuesday afternoon.
Dead is Roy Chanka of Cornelia Ida, who succumbed to injuries following a collision with a motor lorry along the Cornelia Ida Public Road at about 13:56 hrs.
According to preliminary police investigations, motor lorry GAD 7032, driven by a 42-year-old man of Friendship, East Bank Demerara, was proceeding west along the southern side of the roadway and was in the process of turning south into the Cornelia Ida Access Road when the vehicle’s left front wheel collided with the electric cycle, which was travelling in the same direction.
paign forms part of broader national efforts to address domestic violence and sexual offences through early education and prevention,
particularly among children who may be vulnerable but unaware of available protections. By engaging students and ed-
ucators simultaneously, the ministry aims to strengthen reporting pathways and foster safer school environments.
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security noted that the outreach reflects its ongoing commitment to expanding awareness programmes nationwide and strengthening the regional presence of the SODVPU. The initiative also seeks to empower young people with the confidence and knowledge needed to break cycles of violence and understand that personal safety is a fundamental right.
Further rollouts of the campaign are expected as authorities continue efforts to extend the message to communities across Guyana.
He was picked up in an unconscious condition and rushed to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival by a doctor on duty. Police said the body has since been taken to Ezekiel Funeral Home, where it is awaiting a post-mortem examination.
The impact caused Chanka to fall onto the roadway, where he subsequently came into contact with the lorry and sustained multiple injuries.
Investigators have obtained and reviewed CCTV footage as part of ongoing inquiries. A breathalyser test administered to the driver showed no trace of alcohol, police added.
The driver remains in police custody assisting with investigations as efforts continue to determine the full circumstances surrounding the accident.
A 34-year-old miner was on Tuesday granted $200,000 bail after appearing before the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court charged with felonious wounding in connection with an incident that allegedly left a woman injured last year on the East Coast of Demerara.
Mahendra Rampersaud, also known as “Kacey”, of Mon Repos School Road, East Coast Demerara, was charged under Section 56(a) of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01.
The charge alleges that on May 16, 2025, at the Bladen Hall/
Mahendra Rampersaud
Strathspey Squatting Area, East Coast Demerara, he unlawfully wounded a 32-year-old housewife, Felicia Ann Dharamjeet-Rampersaud.
Rampersaud appeared before Senior Magistrate Sunil Scarce, where the allegation was read to him. He pleaded not
guilty to the offence and was granted bail in the sum of $200,000. The matter was adjourned to March 26, 2026, for continuation.
Police said the accused had previously been the subject of a wanted bulletin issued in relation to the incident. Acting on information received on February 14, ranks from the Vigilance Police Station conducted an operation at Lusignan Grass Field, East Coast Demerara, where Rampersaud was arrested at about 05:55 hrs. Investigations into the matter are continuing.
A 24-year-old labourer was on Wednesday sentenced to three years’ imprisonment after pleading guilty to introducing narcotics into the Lusignan Prison.
Timothy McGarrell of the Timehri Squatting Area, East Bank Demerara, appeared before Senior Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court, where the charge was read to him.
McGarrell was charged under Section 7(1)(a)(i) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act, Chapter 10:10, which makes it an offence to bring prohibited drugs into a penal institution.
The court heard that the offence was committed on February 17, 2026, at the Lusignan Prison. He pleaded guilty to the charge and was subsequently sentenced to three years in prison. In addition to the custodial sentence, the court imposed a fine of $30,000. Authorities have continued to warn against attempts to smuggle narcotics into correctional facilities, noting that such offences attract serious penalties under the law.
MINISTER of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand on Wednesday conducted a walkthrough of the East Ruimveldt Market, where she met directly with vendors and community members to listen to their concerns and assess the condition of the facility.
During the engagement, vendors highlighted a number of challenges affecting their daily operations, including structural issues, sanitation concerns, drainage, and the overall need for upgrades to create a safer and more comfortable
- Minister Manickchand conducts walkthrough
environment for business.
Minister Manickchand assured vendors that their concerns are being taken seriously, and form part of the government’s broader efforts to modernise and rehabilitate markets across the country.
The Minister emphasised that markets remain critical economic hubs within communities, providing livelihoods for hundreds of families, while ensuring access to fresh produce and goods for residents.
The planned rehabilitation forms part of the government’s ongoing investment in strengthening municipal and community infrastructure, with a focus on improving public facilities and supporting small businesses.
Further details regarding the scope of works and timelines will be shared as the project advances.
She noted that plans are in place to rehabilitate the East Ruimveldt Market, with works aimed at improving infrastructure, enhancing sanitation facilities, addressing drainage concerns, and creating a more organised and resilient space for vendors and customers alike.
THE Ministry of Health has equipped the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) with the internationally-recognised Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS2) toolkit, a move aimed at enhancing diagnostic services for children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
The handover took
place on Tuesday at the hospital’s Psychiatry Department, and attended by Dr. Bhiro Harry, Consultant Psychiatrist and Head of the GPHC Psychiatry Department; Dr. Timothy Morgan, Director of the Mental Health Unit at the Ministry of Health; and other members of the Psychiatry Department.
The ADOS-2 is a standardised, evidence-based instrument
widely used worldwide for definitive autism diagnosis. Its introduction at GPHC marks a significant advancement in the hospital’s specialised child and adolescent mental health services, providing clinicians with improved capacity for comprehensive assessments.
Officials said the toolkit will enable earlier identification and timely intervention for children
with autism, allowing families to access the support and therapeutic services necessary to improve developmental outcomes.
In a statement, the Ministry of Health reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to quality mental health services, strengthening support systems, and enhancing care for children and families across Guyana.
IN a continued effort to improve road safety, the Traffic Department charged 21 motorists with dangerous driving during hearings at the Sparendaam and Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts last Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
At the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court, before His Worship Mr. Clive Nurse, five drivers appeared: Robert Murray, driving motorcar PZZ 6431, was fined $100,000 for two counts of dangerous driving. Other motorists, including Naresh Ramlall (minibus BWW 4634), Sookram Persaud (minibus BAC 2288), Ke-
sta Rose (motorcar PZZ 9077), and Rawle Caleb (minibus BAM 6003), had
their matters adjourned to March 14, 2026. Meanwhile, at the
Georgetown Magistrate’s Court, before Her Worship Ms. Shivani Lallram,
sixteen drivers were processed. Alithea Hicknson, driver of motorcar PAE 8689, faced four counts of dangerous driving, and was fined $160,000. Fourteen others, including Jermin Denny, Sham Johnny, Joseph Kennard Barnes, Akbar Khan, and Andrew Chung, were fined amounts ranging from $40,000 per count, while several cases, including those of Carl Wilson (motorcar PAL 7002) and Kristoferson Lee (motorcar PAM 7003), were adjourned for further hearing between March 9 and March 17, 2026.
The Traffic Department emphasised that these actions form part of an ongo-
ing campaign to curb reckless driving, which poses serious risks to road users.
“Dangerous driving endangers lives, and will not be tolerated,” a Department spokesperson said. Authorities urged all motorists to exercise caution and adhere strictly to traffic laws. This latest crackdown reflects the government’s heightened commitment to road safety, particularly as traffic volume increases in urban areas. Road safety advocates have noted that consistent enforcement and public awareness campaigns are essential to reduce accidents and fatalities on Guyana’s roads.
MORE motorists are facing fines, bail conditions and licence suspension as dangerous driving offences captured by traffic surveillance cameras continue to advance through the courts, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has reported.
According to the police, footage obtained through the Safe Road Intelligent System (SRIS) has led to the detection of hundreds of dangerous driving
incidents, with dozens already prosecuted as authorities intensify evidence-based traffic enforcement across the country.
Police said dangerous driving occurs when a motorist operates a
When suspected offenders are located, ranks use electronic tablets to show drivers recorded footage of the alleged infraction as part of the verification process before court proceedings begin
vehicle in a manner that endangers the public, other road users or property, noting that such behaviour significantly increases the risk of collisions and disrupts road safety.
Unlike minor traffic violations, dangerous driving offences cannot be settled with tickets, and must be heard before a magistrate. Each case captured by SRIS cameras is individually reviewed by trained officers, with video evidence analysed and compiled before charges are formally laid.
The GPF disclosed that 115 cases have already been processed in the courts, resulting in fines and, in some instances, the suspension of drivers’ licences. Additional matters remain at various stages of review and prosecution as enforcement expands nationwide.
Police officials said efforts are also being made to strengthen prosecutorial capacity to accelerate the preparation and hearing of SRIS-related cases.
When suspected offenders are located, ranks use electronic
tablets to show drivers recorded footage of the alleged infraction as part of the verification process before court proceedings begin.
Among those recently appearing before the Sparendaam and Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts were Kwande Pellew, fined $50,000; Wahid Prasad, fined $40,000; Narendra Persaud, fined $50,000; Brandt Ally, fined $25,000; and Kimeon Brandford-Williams, fined $40,000 after being charged with dangerous driving.
The police reiterated that motorists who engage in reckless behaviour will face firm enforcement action, urging drivers to obey traffic laws and maintain proper lane discipline.
The SRIS forms part of a wider national initiative led by the Government of Guyana and the National Data Management Authority to modernise traffic management through data-driven enforcement systems aimed at reducing road accidents and improving public safety.
THE Ministry of Health has significantly expanded Guyana’s blood banking capacity, improving storage, collection, and support for life-saving surgeries across the country.
Adressing the National Assembly, Deputy Speaker and Director-General of the Ministry of Health Dr. Vishwa Mahadeo, during his parliamentary presentation on Budget 2026 said: "Before 2019, we were storing blood at only 11 health facilities across the country; now we are storing blood at 34 health facilities across the country."
He added that prior to 2019, blood collection efforts were limited to just four regions, but significant progress has been made since then.
THE Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) hosted its second annual Career Fair on Saturday, February 14, attracting over 300 residents from Soesdyke, Timehri, and surrounding communities eager to explore employment opportunities in the growing aviation and commercial sectors.
The event took place at the Kings and Queens Multi Complex Mall, and featured leading employers from both the public and private sectors.
The recruitment drive comes as Guyana’s aviation industry experiences unprecedented growth. Since
2020, passenger traffic has surged, and international carriers have increased flights, prompting the airport and its partner agencies to create more than 150 new positions to meet operational demands. CJIA officials have emphasised that local recruitment remains central to the airport’s development strategy, ensuring that the economic benefits of industry growth are felt within nearby communities. By prioritising residents, the airport aims to provide sustainable employment pathways and strengthen workforce capacity in the region. Part icipating organisa -
tions highlighted the high calibre of candidates at the fair. Ramona Rahat Dalchand, Human Resources Manager at GUYOIL said the event offered “an excellent platform to connect with a wide pool of prospective candidates while promoting our brands”. Ganhim Khan, Administrative Manager at Roraima Airways, added, “The turnout was impressive and demonstrated a very strong community interest throughout the event.”
The fair featured a diverse array of employers to meet the growing workforce demands, including
"Currently, we have sensitised people in all the regions; we have voluntary donors in all 10 regions of Guyana. We have increased blood collection to over 12,000 units per year, Mr. Speaker," Dr. Mahadeo said.
The expansion has strengthened Guyana’s ability to support complex medical procedures, particularly cardiac surgeries. Before 2019, the country supported approximately 20 heart surgeries per year, with at least six units of blood on standby for each. By 2025, over 100 heart surgeries were performed, taking six units of blood each.
The National Blood Transfusion Center (NBTS) is responsible for collecting, storing, and distributing
blood across all regions of Guyana, ensuring that hospitals and health facilities have a reliable supply for emergencies and surgical procedures.
The delivery of blood, blood products, and other medical supplies is expected to be significantly accelerated once the drone system, which has already undergone successful testing, becomes fully operational. These improvements, including infrastructure upgrades, enhanced training, increased staffing, and the procurement of modern equipment, are all part of President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s vision to deliver worldclass healthcare to every citizen across Guyana.
The event took place at the Kings and Queens Multi Complex Mall and featured leading employers from both public and private sectors
government and security agencies such as the Guyana Police Force, the Ministry of Labour, and the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU); aviation services providers like The New Timehri Han-
DEPUTY Speaker and Director-General of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Vishwa Mahadeo has underscored the Government’s commitment to modernising healthcare delivery through the deployment of drone technology to serve remote and hinterland communities.
“The Honourable Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony, guided by HE President Irfaan Ali, has already tested drones to provide an upgrade in services
in Guyana,” Dr. Mahadeo stated during his address to the National Assembly on Budget 2026.
Guyana’s Ministry of Health has partnered with 19Labs and IDB Lab to deploy the Gale Force drone system, designed specifically for long-range medical logistics.
The drones are capable of transporting up to 10 kilograms (22 pounds) of cargo across distances of approximately 150 kilometers, allowing for two-way
delivery of critical supplies and medical samples.
“Once again, Sir, we will be leading the way; we will be promoting better services, and we will be providing more timely services,” Dr. Mahadeo told the Speaker.
The drone network is being integrated with Guyana’s expanding telemedicine platform to strengthen healthcare access in isolated regions such as Region One (Barima-Waini) and communities in Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice), includ-
ing Wiruni, Ituni and Malali.
“Think about blood and blood products, medicines, and artificial supplies that need to be delivered to remote communities in a timely manner,” Dr. Mahadeo said, adding: “A world-class healthcare for the whole of Guyana is definitely in the making, and we are well on our way, Sir.”
dling Services; and private sector companies including CAMEX Inc., Secure Innovations, Banks DIH Limited, New Era, and GUYOIL.
CJIA officials have reaffirmed their commitment to
nurturing partnerships that support job creation and workforce development, ensuring that the airport continues to serve as a key economic engine for the region.
The Ministry of Health has partnered with 19Labs and IDB Lab to deploy the Gale Force drone system, designed specifically for long-range medical logistics
Recent operational tests conducted in early 2026 have confirmed the system’s readiness, with a phased national rollout, particularly for urgent blood delivery, expected in the coming months.
GUYANA is intensifying preparations to promote its agricultural products on the regional stage, with a major logistics partnership announced ahead of its participation in a leading Caribbean agribusiness showcase later this month.
The Government has confirmed that Blue Water Shipping will serve as the official logistics partner for Guyana’s delegation to AgroFest 2026, scheduled for February 27 to March 1 in Bridgetown, Barbados.
The collaboration forms part of a wider effort to strengthen Guyana’s agricultural exports and expand its commercial footprint across the Caribbean.
More than 50 Guyanese businesses, including farmers, agro-processors and manufacturers, are expected to participate in the exhibition, which is anticipated to draw regional buyers, investors and visitors. Officials say the event will provide an important platform for local producers to access new markets and promote value-added products.
Under the arrangement, Blue Water Shipping will manage the transportation and handling of Guyanese goods destined for the exhibition, ensuring
timely delivery and coordination of cargo. The company, which has experience supporting large-scale operations, including Guyana’s oil and gas sector, is expected to play a key role in facilitating the country’s participation.
Chief Investment Officer and Agency Head of the Guyana Office for Investment, Dr. Peter Ramsaroop, said Guyana’s involvement in AgroFest goes beyond promotional visibility, noting that the initiative is aimed at securing new export opportunities and strengthening regional trade links.
Officials also highlighted the logistics company’s established presence in Guyana, offering services ranging from customs brokerage and freight handling to warehousing, procurement and project logistics. Operating near the Port of Georgetown, the firm maintains a regional network designed to support complex cargo movements and commercial expansion.
G uyana’s participation in AgroFest 2026 forms part of broader national efforts to diversify the economy, boost agricultural production and position local businesses to compete more effectively within Caribbean markets.
Kapil and Chappell, the other signatories are Michael Atherton (OBE), Allan Border (AO, Australian of the Year 1989), Michael Brearley (OBE), Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark (AO), David Gower (OBE), Kim Hughes, Nasser Hussain (OBE), Sir Clive Lloyd (CBE), Steve Waugh (AO, Australian of the Year 2004) and John Wright (MBE).
"Recent reports concerning his health - particularly the alarming deterioration of his vision while in custody - and the conditions of his imprisonment over the past two and a half years have caused us profound concern," the statement read.
"As fellow cricketers who understand the values of fair play, honour, and respect
that transcend the boundary rope, we believe that a person of Imran Khan's stature deserves to be treated with the dignity and basic human consideration befitting a former national leader and a global sporting icon," they wrote, expressing deep concern regarding the reported treatment and incarceration conditions of Imran Khan.
They have pointed out how Imran is universally admired for his inspirational leadership and contribution to cricket. "Imran Khan's contributions to the game are universally admired. As captain, he led Pakistan to their
(From back page)
historic 1992 Cricket World Cup victory - a triumph built on skill, resilience, leadership, and sportsmanship that inspired generations across borders.
"Many of us competed against him, shared the field with him, or grew up idolising his all-round brilliance, charisma, and competitive spirit. He remains one of the finest all-rounders and captains the sport has ever seen, earning respect from players, fans, and administrators alike."
They further said, "Beyond cricket, Imran Khan served as Prime Minister of
Pakistan, leading his nation during a challenging period. Regardless of political perspectives, he holds the honour of having been democratically elected to the highest office in his country."
The former captains have concluded the appeal stating the Pakistan authorities have to uphold the principles of decency and justice. "Cricket has long been a bridge between nations. Our shared history on the field reminds us that rivalry ends when the stumps are drawn - and respect endures. Imran Khan embodied that spirit throughout his career.
"We call on authorities to honour it now by upholding the principles of decency and justice. This appeal is made in the spirit of sportsmanship and common humanity, without prejudice to any legal proceedings."
There have been widespread reports of deteriorating health of Imran Khan, who is said to have lost partial vision. Incarcerated since 2023 under reportedly poor conditions, he has allegedly not been allowed to meet family members by the Government of Pakistan and the all-powerful military. (Cricbuzz)
made it 3-0 in the 39th minute before Pele registered their first goal off the boot of Orlando Lovell in the 44th minute of play as they went into the half down 3-1.
After the resumption,
Alfred scored his second goal in the 52nd minute into the game followed shortly by a Shane Jones strike in the 62nd minute that all but sealed the contest for Camptown as they extend the lead to 5-1.
Bethel would score again to finish with a double in the 67th minute to give Camptown a comfortable 6-1 victory.
(From back page)
The night’s opening clash saw EastVeldt FC coming up against Northern Rangers.
Eastveldt’s Kwesi Tumbler was the first to hit the back of the net, scoring a blinder in the 30th minute to give them the early edge.
(From page 28)
it can start from T20I, ODI and Test, or Test, ODI, T20I. Either way, I'm fine, but I want to play a whole series and retire. That's what I want."
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Mashrafe, meanwhile, has been out of the public eye since August 2024, with very little known about his whereabouts. He was still playing in the Dhaka Premier League in 2024 despite playing his last international match in 2020. Mashrafe was serving his second term as an Awami League MP when the government was overthrown by a revolution led by students in August that year.
On the subject of the BCB elections held last year, Haque said the pro -
ceedings were "questionable". Haque was reportedly backing the Tamim Iqbal-led alliance, which pulled out of the race citing corruption and unfair practices at the time.
"I have said it before and I will say it again: it was a questionable election of the BCB," Haque said. "But since I am now in a responsible position, I will sit down with them and discuss how we can move to a better stage."
His predecessor as BCB president, Aminul Islam, has reportedly left the country last week.
(ESPN Cricinfo)
(Thursday, February 19, 2026)
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Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) ZIM defeated AUST by 13 runs (Nottingham, 1983)
(2) Duncan Fletcher (ZIM)
Today’s Quiz:
(1) How many Group games are scheduled in the current
DALLAS Mavericks star Kyrie Irving will miss the remainder of this season as he continues to rehab his ACL injury, the team announced Wednesday.
"The decision wasn't easy, but it's the right one," Irving said in a statement. "I am grateful for the Mavericks organization, my teammates and our fans for their continued support throughout the process. I am looking forward to coming back stronger next season. The belief and drive I have inside only grows.
"And I wanted to send a huge shoutout to ALL of my brothers and sisters out there who've torn their ACL or gotten injured doing what they love to do every day. THANK YOU for the inspiration. No fear!”
Irving's agent, Shetellia Riley Irving, told ESPN: "This is about Kyrie being 1000% when he comes back and giving himself the best chance to chase a championship next season."
Irving hasn’t appeared
in an NBA game for nearly 12 months. His last game with the Mavs was on Mar. 3 of last season, a 122-98 loss against the Sacramento Kings. He played just over nine minutes during that game, scored seven points, and then suffered a season-ending knee injury.
In 2024, the Mavs advanced to the NBA Finals on the backs of Luka Dončić and Irving, and it looked like Dallas would be a Western Conference contender for the foreseeable future. Two years later, Dončić is a Laker and
Irving is approaching an entire year without touching the hardwood.
When Irving does return next season, he’ll be heading into his 15th NBA season at age 33. The former No. 1 overall pick has been a phenomenal player and one of the best point guards in the league for well over a decade, despite his injury history.
Irving is a nine-time AllStar, three-time All-NBA selection and won an NBA championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016. (Yahoo Sports)
ENGLISH cricket is set to receive a 45 million pounds ($61.05 million) injection into grassroots facilities as proceeds from The Hundred investment trickle down to community level, England's cricket board (ECB) said on Wednesday.
The ECB announced the fund will target projects benefiting women and girls, disabled participants, lower socio-economic groups and ethnically diverse communities as part of making cricket inclusive.
The ECB also said it hopes the funding could leverage projects worth 150 million pounds over the next decade.
"This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for grassroots cricket thanks to the investment we've received into The Hundred," ECB CEO Richard Gould said in a statement.
"With more children playing, the rapid growth of women's and girls' cricket, and our desire to become the most inclusive team sport, new and improved facilities are vital to open up access to cricket for communities across England and Wales.
"This additional investment into facilities will be a real game-changer and I hope other local and national partners will come on board to support these community
THE inaugural Elite League Cup opened in bizarre circumstances at the National Training Centre as Den Amstel refused to return for the second half after conceding nine goals against Police FC.
Police were awarded a commanding victory under competition regulations after their opponents, who started the match with only 10 men and saw their goalkeeper sent off, opted against resuming play following a first half "thumping."
Police FC wasted no time in exploiting Den Amstel's numerical disadvantage. Carl Griffith was the architect of the destruction, bagging a clinical 15-minute hat-trick (6’, 12’, 21’) to set the tone for a one-sided afternoon.
Ryan Hackett added a brace (36’, 42’), while Devon Padmore, Nicholas McArthur, Simeon Moore, and Beveney McGarrell all found the net in a 45-min-
projects so that we can get much more bang for our collective buck."
The ECB is simultaneously doubling smaller grants for facilities at individual clubs to five million pounds this year, focusing on women's and girls' cricket development.
They are also increasing interest-free loans that are available to clubs from 50,000 pounds to 75,000 pounds.
The ECB said around 300 projects are expected to be delivered in 2026 alone, supporting the drive toward having at least 6,000 girls' teams by 2028. (Reuters)
ute blitz that saw a goal fly in every five minutes on average.
The match was effectively over as a contest long before the referee blew for half-time, but the decision by Den Amstel to forfeit the second period left fans and officials at the Providence facility stunned.
In the day's opening fixture, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) proved far too strong for Fruta Conquerors, eventually prevailing with a 5-0 win.
While the "Army Men" took an early lead through Abumchi Opara in the sixth minute, the Conquerors managed to keep the deficit to just one at the break. However, the floodgates opened in the second half as Stephen McDonald and Ian Dooker both netted doubles to quash any hopes of a Fruta fightback.
The new senior men’s competition has been intro-
duced to increase meaningful, high-level competitive opportunities for elite players and clubs, while also strengthening pathways for player development and national team selection.
The inaugural Elite League Cup features nine Elite League clubs, drawn into three groups of three for the round-robin phase. Following group play, teams will advance to the knockout stage, which will culminate in the semi-finals, third-place playoff, and championship final.
The tournament boasts a competitive prize structure, including cash awards, trophies, medals, and incentives for outstanding individual performances: G$1 million (champions), $700,000 (runners-up), $500,000 (third place) and $300,000 (fourth place).
Matches occurred on Wednesday evening and will continue Saturday.
AFTER Monday's resounding defeat by Sri Lanka took World Cup fate out of his side's hands, Australia captain Mitchell Marsh asked for the luck of the Irish to kick in.
The following day, Ireland were due to take on Zimbabwe in Pallekele. Any points for the African side would knock Australia out of the competition.
Clearly, no-one told Marsh that when it comes to Irish luck in a cricketing context, rain is never far away. The two sides shared the points after wet weather saw the match abandoned without a ball bowled. Zimbabwe through, Australia gone.
For the first time since 2009, there will not be an Australian side in the Super Eight stage or equivalent. Since winning it in 2021, this edition marks a third consecutive T20 World Cup without Australia in the semi-finals.
Less than a month on from wrapping up a resounding Ashes drubbing, Australia's T20 side has failed to hit similar heights. The failings of this competition, which has seen them play all of their group games in Sri Lanka, alongside a wider slump in this format, does little to discard the notion that T20 cricket is not a priority.
As always after a difficult tournament, selection is
questioned. Steve Smith has long been out of this side, not appearing in almost two years. A century and two 50s in the recent Big Bash were not enough to earn a recall. Not until Marsh was hit in the groin in training prior to Australia's first game against Ireland.
Smith was summoned to acclimatise in Colombo in case he was required. He ultimately was, but not as a replacement for Marsh.
Australia's Test run machine eventually earned a place in the squad proper when the selectors belatedly named a replacement for Josh Hazlewood, who was ruled out of the competition before a ball was bowled.
All those moving parts for a player who only made it onto the park as a sub fielder while Australia were still mathematically alive, with Smith powerless to stop Sri Lanka and Pathum Nissanka's charge.
The decision to drop Matthew Renshaw for that defeat also reads as confusing. His 37 off 33 balls against Ireland was slow, but the Ireland camp highlighted how impressed they were given the tricky nature of the pitch. Next time out, Renshaw's 65 off 44 fell short of match-winning status against Zimbabwe.
Dropping him against Sri Lanka backfired. After Travis
Head and Marsh's opening partnership of 104 off 8.3 overs, Australia looked well set. They lost the next three wickets for 26 runs, the middle order appearing to lack the stability previously provided by Renshaw.
"The reaction back home has been rather heavy because I think we've been sold down the stream a little bit in terms of our selection and how we've gone about preparing for this T20 World Cup," Australia's two-time 50-over World Cup winner Matthew Hayden told Test Match Special.
"It sort of smacks of England, and their questions in the Ashes preparation - this kind of self-fulfilling prophecy of 'we're OK' and 'no, don't worry'. It's a mix of denial and maybe even just mismanagement.
"We enjoy coming to countries like Sri Lanka but we just haven't prepared for what we've seen. We've picked power hitters in finesse type conditions.
"[It's] almost like stubbornness but there is a plan A. And that plan A is called power. And it's a day and age of power. In India, that's certainly the case.
"These conditions [in Sri Lanka], though, are different. They're not such pure batting surfaces, and that requires methodology. It almost re-
quires a bit more of an old school approach and way of thinking about the game that allows you to stay in the contest."
Australia's fast-bowling depth behind the big three of Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc looks strong in red-ball cricket. Just ask England.
In white-ball cricket, though, it's a different story. Starc has retired from the format while Cummins and Hazelwood are injured. It says plenty that, instead of calling up a bowler immediately once the latter went down, they waited until mid-tournament to call up Smith, a batter.
Word from within the camp refuses to dwell too much on muddled selection or lack of depth.
"Looking down our list, honestly, it feels like there's more than enough talent to look after the situations in the games that we're playing," said Marsh after the Sri Lanka defeat.
"As much as we can talk about team line-up and who's in, who's out and that sort of thing, I think if everyone just looks after their role it should help [put] us in good stead."
All-rounder Cameron Green, who became the Indian Premier League's most expensive overseas signing when he was picked up for more than £2m by Kolkata
Knight Riders in December, was criticised by Hayden having struggled to make an impact despite batting at number three.
"Cam Green has just looked awful with the bat," said Hayden. "He looks woody, he looks tinny, he looks like he's just a man with no confidence, and I'd be very surprised if that's not exactly the case.
"Matt Renshaw has come with no baggage to this tournament. He actually had a really good series back home in Australia in the ODIs. He's been a man that's been very ill treated - there's no doubt he should be in the Test team too."
There is a wider question on Australia's cultural attitudes towards T20.
While Big Bash crowds are healthy, this tournament has taken place at a difficult time for fans back home to watch. Only one Australian journalist has travelled to cover the team in Sri Lanka,
reflecting how editors view the levels of public interest.
In that context, it seems easy to question to what extent this competition has been prioritised. Even if injuries ruled out players such as Cummins and Hazlewood, other senior players were told to prioritise the Big Bash finals instead of heading on the warm-up tour to Pakistan prior to this week's failing.
"Cricket Australia needs to have a look at their schedule, and they need to be able to manage their number one and primary resource, which is cricket talent," said Hayden.
"[They need to] find a way to just be a little more controlled, and a little more destined and built towards the purpose of Australian cricket."
Before that, however, Australia have one match remaining in this competition, against Oman on Friday.
A dead rubber, the kind of match usually more associated with England in the Ashes.
"We will remain tolerant and flexible on them," Bangladesh sports minister Aminul Haque says
BANGLADESH'S new sports minister Aminul Haque has said that the government will fast track the procedures in the cases against Shakib Al Hasan and Mashrafe Mortaza so that the two former Awami League members of parliament can return to cricket swiftly.
Haque, a former Bangladesh football captain, is among 49 new central and state ministers appointed on Tuesday after the Bangladesh Nationalist Party
(BNP) came to power by winning the general elections held on February 12. Haque said that the new government would be "tolerant and flexible" on the former Bangladesh captains against whom several cases were filed after the Awami League government fell in 2024. "The government will deal with the matter concerning Shakib and Mashrafe. We will remain tolerant and flexible on them," Haque said. "The cases against them will be handled by the government. We want Shakib to
return [to Bangladesh]. We hope those will be
resolved swiftly so they can return. We also want Shakib and Mashrafe back in Bangladesh cricket." Shakib hasn't been back in Bangladesh since May 2024 - he is based in the USA for the past few years. Though he hasn't played for Bangladesh since October 2024, he has been in action in franchise T20 leagues, including the PSL and the CPL. During a recent interview to the Beard Before Wicket podcast, Shakib announced that he had reversed his
decision to retire from international cricket. He said that he wanted to retire after playing a full international series, though he didn't put a timeline to it. "I am officially not retired from all formats. This is the first time I'll be revealing that. My plan is to go back to Bangladesh, play one full series of ODI, Test, and T20, and retire," he had said in December last year. "I mean, [I can] retire from all formats in a series. So,
PAKISTAN became the final team to qualify for the Super Eights of the Twenty20 World Cup after Sahibzada Farhan's maiden international century powered them to a thumping 102-run victory over Namibia in Colombo on Wednesday.
Farhan remained unbeaten on exactly 100 off 58 balls, reaching his landmark in the final over as Pakistan posted 199 in their must-win Group A encounter at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground.
Despite a slow start, the opener's explosive knock featured 11 boundaries and four sixes, with skipper Salman Agha contributing a useful 38 and Shadab Khan adding an unbeaten 36 that included two sixes in the final over of the innings.
"Early on the wicket wasn't that easy to bat on, I told (opener) Saim (Ayub) we'll take some time (to settle in) and I was confident that with time we could set a target," said Farhan, who was named the player of the match.
"The partnership with Shadab was important.
The idea was to build a partnership and once the partnership gets going, I would take charge and Shadab can hit as well."
Shadab (3-19) proved instrumental with the ball as well, dismissing skipper Gerhard Erasmus before having Alexander Busing-Volschenk stumped for 20 when the middle-order batter charged down the pitch as the required run rate mounted.
Spinner Usman Tariq cleaned up the tail and
finished with career-best figures of 4-16 as Namibia were dismissed for 97, ending their World Cup campaign without a win to
INDIA'S world number
one T20 batter Abhishek Sharma was out for a third consecutive duck at the World Cup but the hosts maintained their unbeaten tournament record with a 17-run victory over the Netherlands in Ahmedabad.
With Super 8s qualification already secured, India chose to bat first after winning the toss, but their openers were stifled by the Netherlands' bowlers in the early overs.
(Scores: India 193-6 (20 overs): Dube 66 (31); Van Beek 3-56
Netherlands 176-7 (20 overs): De Leede 33 (23); Chakravarthy 3-14)
Sharma faced just three balls before being dismissed by a back of the length delivery from Aryan Dutt, becoming the first batter in history to record three ducks in their first three innings of a T20 World Cup. He has five ducks in the calendar year.
But inspired batting further down the order saw India post an imposing 193-
6, thanks to Shivam Dube's blistering 66 off 31 which featured four fours and six sixes.
Dube was backed up by Tilak Varma (31), Suryakumar Yadav (34) and Hardik Pandya (30). Aryan Dutt and Logan van Beek did attempt to slow down India's hard-hitting batters, picking up five wickets between them.
Having been knocked out of the competition after Pakistan's win over Namibia earlier in the day, the chase looked out of the Netherlands' reach from the outset. Opening batters Michael
Levitt and Max O'Dowd found it hard to get going as India spin bowler Varun Chakravarthy claimed a clinical 3-14 off his three overs. Chakravarthy claimed revenge on behalf of teammate Sharma by dismissing Dutt for a duck of his own, leaving the Netherlands 94-4 inside 13 overs.
Zach Lion-Cachet and Noah Croes hit some late boundaries but never threatened to overhaul the target, meaning India end Group A with an unblemished record of four wins from four matches. (BBC Sport)
finish bottom of the group. Pakistan skipper Salman Agha was beaming when he described the win as a "complete performance".
"We started really well and in the middle, we put partnerships on and then finished well," he said.
"Sahibzada has been outstanding, the way he's been batting for us for the last six months. He scored a hundred today and I'm very happy for him.
"When it comes to bowling, we were lethal and we were ruthless. We bowled in the right areas."
All teams in the Super Eight have also secured automatic qualification for the next edition of the tournament in Australia and New Zealand in 2028.
T20 WORLD CUP SUPER EIGHT TEAMS
Group A: India, Pakistan
Group B: Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe
Group C: West Indies, England
Group D: South Africa, New Zealand (Reuters)
NEW DELHI, (Reuters) - South Africa made four changes yet scarcely missed a beat as they trounced the United Arab Emirates by six wickets in a Group D dead rubber of the Twenty20 World Cup at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Wednesday.
Having already secured their place in the Super Eights with a hat-trick of victories, the 2024 runners-up treated the fixture as a tune-up and rested David Miller, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj and Lungi Ngidi.
Yet they hardly broke a sweat as they restricted UAE to a below-par 122-6 after electing to field under an overcast sky.
Dewald Brevis (36) and Ryan Rickelton (30) produced breezy cameos as South Africa reached the target in 13.2 overs, wrapping up their blemish - free group campaign with four wins from four.
"It was great to see the boys that came in and that have been working hard for an opportunity to grab that opportunity with both hands," South Africa captain
"I thought the bowling unit once again was really good in executing plans on that wicket. It gives confidence to us as a group to know that each guy in the 15 is in a good space."
Earlier, UAE opener Aryansh Sharma was on six when South Africa wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock spilled a skier but the reprieve proved brief.
Left-arm spinner George Linde struck in his first over, removing Muhammad Waseem for 22 to open the gate and the powerplay tilted further when Corbin Bosch (3-12) bounced out Aryansh. The seamer returned to
land a major blow - prising out the in-form Sohaib Khan - to leave UAE 66-3 at the halfway mark.
Alishan Sharafu (45) was put through concussion protocols after being hit by a Bosch bouncer, which dislodged the neck protector of his helmet.
The batter gamely soldiered on to top-score for his team, but UAE could never really break the shackles.
South Africa lost Markram and de Kock in the powerplay, but Rickleton and Brevis scored briskly. Neither could stay put until the end but South Africa's victory was swift and clinical.
ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada,(CMC) – After a frustrating eight-month layoff due to a shoulder injury, West Indies captain Hayley Matthews is declared fit and ready to lead her side in the upcoming One-Day International series against Sri Lanka, beginning Friday.
The charismatic all-rounder has not featured for the regional side since last June, making her return at the National Cricket Stadium a significant boost for the home team. Matthews is eager to shake off the rust and start the year on a high note against familiar opponents.
“Yeah, it’s gonna be a great opportunity for us to start the year off with a game against some really good opposition in Sri Lanka,” Matthews said.
“An opposition that we know we would have been matched very closely with in previous games, and who
always give us a massive challenge to compete against. So, we certainly are looking forward to playing them.”
The West Indies skipper acknowledged the competitive history between the two sides, emphasising that her team is not just showing up to participate.
“We’re two teams that match up really well. We’re going to be right there competing to win games and hopefully win the series. There are great merits within the team right now, and everybody is just looking forward to getting going.”
With a new year comes a renewed focus, and Matthews is placing a heavy emphasis on the team’s energy and body language as they take the field for the first time in 2026.
“Just going out there with a lot of energy is gonna be super important. It’s obviously a new year and a fresh start, and we kinda wanna go out
there with vibes and energy high for our very first match.
“I feel as though if we play the right brand of cricket and we play with the right energy and the right passion, the results will certainly follow.”
The squad features several promising young players, and Matthews sees this series as a vital opportunity for their development. She views her role not just as a run-scorer or wicket-taker, but as a mentor to the next generation.
“Them having the opportunity to watch me perform might be something to help them at the same time.
“But it’s just about encouraging them every single time. They’re obviously young and have quite a lot to learn. But the good thing with the youngsters on our team is that they’re all very keen, very hungry, and want to learn, get better, and improve.
“So for me, it’s just about going out there and trying to do my thing as much as
possible, at the same time making sure that we nurture them to become the best version of themselves in the future as well.”
Beyond the immediate series, Matthews is looking to set a long-term tone for the year, particularly in front of a home crowd. With limited international cricket played
in the Caribbean recently, she is keen to establish the region as a fortress where visiting teams find it difficult to compete.
“We all are pretty hungry for that. We haven’t had many series in the Caribbean of late, so this is gonna be a great chance for us to kinda make home ours, and really
give teams a hard time coming down here.
“This is gonna be the perfect time for us to set that up, and align things how we want to play at home in front of our crowd. And hopefully we’re able to set a really good example for how we wanna go about the rest of the year.”
GROS ISLET, St. Lucia, (CMC) – Saint Lucia’s finest sporting talents were celebrated in style over the weekend as the 44th National Sports Awards Ceremony unfolded, honouring the outstanding achievements of the 2025 season.
Sprint queen Julien Alfred once again reigned supreme in the female category, securing the Sportswoman of the Year title following another historic campaign.
The Olympic gold medallist added to her glittering
resume in 2025 by becoming Saint Lucia’s first-ever medallist at the World Athletics Championships, capturing bronze in the women’s 100m dash.
The victory marks backto-back Sportswoman of the Year honours for Alfred, who continues to build on her remarkable 2024 and 2025 seasons.
In the male category, cricketer Ackeem Auguste’s explosive rise to prominence earned him the Sportsman of the Year award.
Auguste’s unforgettable 2025 included a monumental double century for Saint Lucia in the final of the Windward Islands tournament, cementing his status as one of the nation’s brightest cricketing talents.
The junior categories showcased the depth of Saint Lucian sporting potential.
Swimmer Antoine Destang claimed the Junior Sportsman of the Year title after a phenomenal year that saw him shatter seven Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States
records and four national marks.
Meanwhile, sprint sensation Jady Emmanuel made history as Junior Sportswoman of the Year, becoming Saint Lucia’s first-ever sprint titlist at the CARIFTA Games.
The young star claimed gold in both the 100m and 200m dashes, announcing herself as a force to be reckoned with on the regional stage.
Speaking at the event, Sports Minister Kenson Casimir reflected on a watershed
year for Saint Lucian sport.
“Our athletes have continued to demonstrate that regardless of our size as a nation, our talent, ambition, and determination place us firmly on the global stage,” Casimir told the gathering.
By Frederick Halley
PRESIDENT of the West Indies Cricket Umpires Association (WICUA), Vivian Johnson has assured fully qualified members of the Canada Cricket Umpires Association (CCUA) that in the not-too-distant future they will be part of the Junior Panel of Cricket West Indies (CWI).
Speaking at last Sunday’s Appreciation Luncheon, held at Starlite Restaurant & Bar, Scarborough, Ontario, Canada, Johnson said the WICUA is in ongoing discussion with CWI to reintroduce the programme which ran for six years between 2013-2019 but was discontinued because of financial constraints.
During that six-year period, umpires from the USA, who are also affiliated to the WICUA, formed part of the Junior Panel which caters mainly for junior and women’s cricket.
Johnson however pointed out that WICUA and CWI have already convened two
meetings on the issue and feedback is expected by next month. WICUA, he said, will ensure that umpires from Canada, Bermuda and Cayman Islands are included in the Junior Panel.
Johnson also reiterated that foremost among the major plans of the regional body is to increase training oppor-
tunities in the territories by planning and delivering training seminars, utilising the association’s chairman Peter Nero along with senior umpires, other certified trainers, plus the utilisation of former ICC Elite Umpire Joel Wilson and Gregory Braithwaite to be a part of this venture.
“In addition, WICUA is
MUMBAI, India, (CMC)
– West Indies have been grouped with the world’s best T20I side, India in the Super Eight phase of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Having won their opening three matches of the tournament, the Windies are highly favoured to top Group C regardless of the result in their final match against Italy at Eden Gardens on
Thursday.
As a result, the West Indies will battle with home side and tournament favourites India, South Africa and Zimbabwe in Group 1. The competitive group features three of the group winners from the preliminary rounds, with India emerging top in Group A, the West Indies winning Group C, while South Africa finished top of the table in Group D.
the full member responsible for cricket umpiring in this hemisphere: We intend to significantly broaden our reach to train umpires in Central and South America and to invite some of these countries to become members of WICUA.
“We would like to utilise the services of Messrs.
Wilson, Nero, Braithwaite and other senior umpires to be our ambassadors to reach into these areas to expand umpiring opportunities in this hemisphere. A part of the plan is to have the trainers officiating in matches with these umpires as part of the training exercise to bolster their confidence.”
Johnson pointed out that the WICUA is also planning to reorganise the practical and oral examinations for Level 3 umpires to make it more amenable to reducing the quality of matches for the WICUA Certificate. He said the information will be forwarded shortly to the respective affiliated bodies.
In brief remarks, Shiv Persaud, who heads both the Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA) and Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL), applauded the members of the CCUA for doing a great job during the 2025 SCA season and also at the provisional level. He also encouraged umpires to continue their upward mobility.
Persaud, who was accompanied by PRO Moshin Patel and Treasurer Matthew Francis, also participated in the distribution of medals which were awarded to umpires who officiated in the 2025 season.
Ontario Masters Softball Cricket Clubs (OMSCC) President Azeem Khan pointed out that he has much respect for members of the CCUA who have been performing extremely well to keep the game of cricket alive.
Other executive members present were Vice-president Hardatt Ramcharran, Secretary Amit Bacchus and Player/Management/Statistician Terry Mathura, who is also the Treasurer of the CCUA and was Sunday’s Master of Ceremonies.
Speaking on behalf of the business community, Kim Sue of Norman Sue Bakery also showered praises on the umpires while emphasising the role the leagues play in upholding the cricket culture.
Meanwhile, Group 2 comprises New Zealand, Sri Lanka, England and Pakistan.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals.
The West Indies will open their Super Eight campaign against Zimbabwe in Mumbai on February 23, before facing South Africa in Ahmedabad three days later and India on March 1 at Eden Gardens.
By Sean Devers
GEORGETOWN again proved that the gap between that team and the rest of the Demerara Cricket Board (DCB) sub-association teams is very wide when the city side decimated East Bank by eight wickets yesterday at the Guyana Police Force’s Sports Club Ground at Eve Leary in the opening round of the DCB Inter-Association 50-over U-19 cricket tournament.
East Bank were 15 without loss before suffering a colossal collapse to be bowled out in 19.2 overs for a paltry 38 as all 10 wickets tumbled for 23 runs.
Dilshan Latchman hit boundary in his painstaking 35-ball 10 and along with Shane Kissoondeo (1) before Stephon Seymour removed Kissoondeo and Skipper Joshua Budram for a duck to leave East Bank on 15-2 in 7.5 overs.
Fast bowler Shane Prince rocked back the stumps of Latchman to East Bank on
16-3 in bright sunshine and ideal batting conditions and they never recovered.
Man-of-the-Match Emmanuel Lewis 3-5, Dave Mohabir 3-9, Prince 2-6 and Seymour 2-15 conspired to orchestrate East Bank’s demise.
Georgetown galloped to 39-2 in 7.1 overs although Roupie Rajaram had opener Khush Seegobin LBW for five and bowled his elder sibling Danvir Seegobin for 11 with two fours.
West Indies U-19 World Cup left-hander Shamar Apple joined Kishan Silas
(9) with the score on 29-2 and the 16-year-old Apple who plays for the Transport Sports Club, deposited Ravindra Singh for six off his second to emphatically finish the one-sided contest.
After a break today the action resumes tomorrow with East Bank and East Coast matching skills at the Police Sports Club Ground while West Demerara and Upper Demerara face-off at Meten-Meer-Zorg.
Up to press time no scores were available in the game at Meten-Meer-Zorg in West Demerara.
The joint statement, released to select media outlets including Cricbuzz, makes a formal representation for the wellbeing of the former
FOURTEEN international captains, including Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, have made a fervent appeal to the Government of Pakistan for a better treatment of Imran Khan, physically, mentally, environmentally and even socially.
World Cup-winning captain, who has been confined to prison with no information available about his health or safety. Among the 14 signatories is also Greg Chappell, the former Australia captain and ex-India head coach.
In their one-page request, they have said, "We respectfully urge the Government of Pakistan to ensure that Imran Khan receives:
Immediate, adequate and
KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC) – Former West Indies cricketer Lawrence Rowe strongly believes the regional side has the potential to win the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
The Windies have made an impressive start to the tournament thus far by comfortably winning all three of their Group C matches to qualify for the Super Eights.
They will now face off against India, South Africa and Zimbabwe in Group 1, with the top two finishers assured a spot in the semi-finals.
In an interview on Isports on i95.5 FM in Trinidad, Lowe, who played 30 Test matches for the West Indies between 1972 and 1980, said he was impressed with the team’s performance on the sub-continent.
“They’ve been playing fairly well, and I always tend to feel that in the shorter version of the game we always have a shot.
“We have the type of players who can do their thing well in that format of the game. We bat very deep and I think they have a big chance of winning the World Cup,” the 77-year-old Rowe said on Tuesday.
He said he was particularly amazed by the performances of batsmen Sherfane Rutherford and Shimron Hetmyer.
“The batting has impressed me so far, especially Rutherford, who has settled in his role so well and Hetymer coming up the order and batting at number three.
He has given the team a few good starts coming in at number three, but Rutherford is a man that I have focused on because he’s measured and tends to play himself in and take his time early on in his innings and when the time comes to go, he goes really hard and heavy and he’s done really well so far.
“Hopefully if he plays as well as he has been playing, I really believe that they can win this thing and they can win it all,” Rowe said.
In the bowling department, Rowe said he was impressed by the maturity of Gudakesh Motie.
He said the left-arm spinner, who had endured a tough 2025, had returned with a plethora of variations in his bowling.
“I’m happy for Motie who has developed. I’ve noticed he has developed a back of the hand ball, which is very good that some variety has come into his game.
“The bowling seems alright. We have to admit that in the T20 game people are going to get hit out of the park whether they bowl good or bad. It carries a great degree of luck and how well we put it all together on the day, each guy playing for each other on the day and if we put it together well enough, we have a chance,” Rowe said.
“The team seems confident now and they’re going into the Super Eights, the knockout stage, so it’s everybody’s guess and everybody’s game, but they have as well a chance as anybody else.”
ongoing medical attention from qualified specialists of his choosing to address his reported health issues.
Humane and dignified conditions of detention in line with international standards,
including regular visits by close family members.
Fair and transparent access to legal processes without undue delay or hindrance.
Apart from Gavaskar,
DOUBLES from Deon Alfred and Marlon Bethel guaranteed Camptown FC deliver a thumping performance on Tuesday evening when they clashed with Pele FC at the Plaisance Commu -
nity Centre Ground in the Georgetown Football Association’s Senior Men’s League.
Alfred scored in the 18th minute followed by Bethel doubling the lead a few minutes later.
Anthone Williams
The two teams playing the feature contest went toe to toe, but it was Camptown that proved on target several times to deliver the victory.