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Rodrigues-Birkett presents UN Secretary-General candidacy to Egyptian Foreign Minister –maintains strong position in race 05 PAGE
US EXIM backs Guyana’s transformation drive 03 PAGE
–– as President Ali and team meet with bank’s officials
–– GTE 2, affordable housing and deepwater port among projects discussed
President, Dr Irfaan Ali, on Monday, discussed Guyana’s strategic, economic and diversification opportunities during a conversation hosted by the FIU Adam Smith Center for Economic Freedom at the Harvard Club of New York City. He outlined key areas of growth and opportunity, including energy, mining, agriculture, infrastructure, biodiversity and environmental sustainability, while highlighting our drive to strengthen Guyana’s human capital to support both new and existing sectors. He also underscored the significant opportunities for collaboration with local companies as we expand connectivity, strengthen our productive capacity and position Guyana to access new markets (OP Photos)
Russian refinery attacks could push up Guyana’s flour prices 02 PAGE
Ten years on the run: Ojha charged over 2015 murder of Nephi Noel Luther 09 PAGE
Election fraud trial: Forensic 04 auditor details vote discrepancies PAGE
––says declarations produced variations when compared to SOPs
VPAC’s Bailey challenges 08 Mohamed over claim police deleted Facebook account PAGE
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Russian refinery attacks could push up Guyana’s flour prices
GLOBAL markets could see higher prices for flour, bread and other wheat-based products, while importers may also face tighter diesel supplies, as disruptions in global energy markets threaten to drive up fuel and shipping costs. The development comes as attacks on Russian refineries have worsened an already tight global diesel market, according to the Financial Times, with disruptions threatening to further constrain supplies and push up prices. The implications could
extend beyond the energy sector, particularly for countries such as Guyana that depend heavily on imports. Higher diesel and shipping costs could increase the expense of bringing wheat and other food commodities into the country, with those additional costs potentially being passed on to consumers. Flour is a key ingredient in bread, pastries, pasta and other commonly consumed products, meaning sustained increases in import and transportation costs could eventually be reflected on supermarket
shelves. The global fuel squeeze could also create challenges for businesses dependent on diesel for transportation and other operations. Guyana has moved early and aggressively to cushion households and farmers from soaring global prices, reversing hefty fees, cutting taxes and investing billions of dollars in food production and infrastructure, while keeping inflation near four per cent. These measures, Guyana’s President, Dr Irfaan Ali, recently pointed out,
were taken against the backdrop of shocks stemming from the lingering impact of COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war,
as well as climate-related disasters and instability in the Middle East. N o t a b l y, d u r i n g the onset of the Rus-
sia-Ukraine war, Guyana began trials to produce wheat, corn and soya in a bid to boost local self-sufficiency.
US EXIM backs Guyana’s transformation drive
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 22, 2026
–– as President Ali and team meet with bank’s officials –– GTE 2, affordable housing and deepwater port among projects discussed THE United States Export-Import Bank (US EXIM) is deepening its support for Guyana’s development agenda, with financing and investment discussions ranging from the Gas-to-Energy Project Phase Two (GTE 2), a Deepwater Port, affordable housing and other major infrastructure initiatives. The commitment was reaffirmed following a meeting between President Dr Irfaan Ali and US EXIM Bank President and Chairman John Jovanovic in New York, where the two sides reviewed Guyana’s transformative projects and the growing partnership between the country and the US institution. President Ali, in a video posted to his social media, said US EXIM had demonstrated its continued commitment to Guyana’s development agenda, including by working with other international stakeholders to
find solutions for existing projects. He disclosed that the discussions included the completion of Gas-to-Energy Phase One (GTE 1), financing for GTE 2, and the involvement of US EXIM in a structure to facilitate invest-
THE Guyana Power and Light (GPL) is continuing to absorb higher fuel costs without increasing electricity rates, with the Government providing $25.7 billion in the 2026 Budget to help the company meet the cost of fuel and maintain its operations. This is according to GPL Chief Executive Officer Kesh Nandlall, who was at the time appearing on the Starting Point podcast, where he indicated that the power company has been receiving Government support to cover increased fuel costs while electricity rates remain unchanged. “GPL has been absorbing the increases in fuel prices
and the rates that it reflects; we have not increased electricity rates,” Nandlall said. He explained that the Government had taken a policy decision not to increase electricity tariffs, resulting in additional funding being provided to GPL to meet the rising cost of fuel. “So, the government has taken a policy decision not to increase electricity tariffs. So, GPL has been funded the extra money that is required to meet the increased cost of fuel from the government,” the CEO said. As such, Nandlall pointed to the $25.7 billion allocation in the 2026 Budget, saying the funding is particularly directed towards GPL’s fuel
support was also expanding beyond the energy sector into housing, security and other areas of national interest. He also identified the proposed Amaila Falls hydropower project and the development of the Lethem Airport among the initiatives
discussed as part of Guyana’s wider transformation agenda. Meanwhile, Jovanovic said the partnership was being strengthened through Guyana’s engagement with US technology providers and companies, adding that US EXIM wanted to take the relationship to the next level. He indicated that the completion of GTE 1 and the realisation of GTE 2 were particularly important to Guyana’s industrialisation plans, as reliable electricity and power generation would provide the foundation for economic transformation. “The vision that you have for transforming, industrialising Guyana all depends on reliable base electricity and power generation, so we want to ensure that serves as a foundational backbone,” he told President Ali. Further to this, the bank’s chair pointed to the Deepwater Port and other critical infrastructure projects as areas
where US EXIM would work alongside other international partners. According to Jovanovic, the bank is also advancing an affordable housing construction project in partnership with US companies and businesses, reflecting what he described as President Ali’s emphasis on ensuring that major international partnerships benefit ordinary Guyanese. He said the US viewed Guyana as an important partner in efforts to promote peace, prosperity and stability in the Western Hemisphere. Against this backdrop, Jovanovic affirmed that US EXIM would continue working with Guyana and its international partners, stressing that the institution was not merely supporting the country from the sidelines but was very proud to be a partner.
GPL CEO, Kesh Nandlall requirements. noting that GPL’s operating He added that Govern- and capital costs are closely ment is also providing cap- connected. ital funding for the GPL’s “There are also capital infrastructure programme, funding because, if we can’t
meet your operating costs, you are unable to meet your capital cost. So the government is also funding the capital investment that we spoke of,” Nandlall said. The CEO, however, indicated that the existing allocation is coming under additional pressure as fuel prices have risen further. He attributed part of the increase to developments in the Middle East, noting that the assumptions used when the 2026 Budget was prepared may no longer reflect prevailing fuel prices. “Now the prices have increased even further due to the war in the Middle East,” Nandlall said. As such he explained
that GPL had used an index price when preparing its budget, based on information available late last year, but said that index may not have accounted for the subsequent escalation in global fuel prices. “So prices have far escalated,” he said. When asked about the amount of additional funding that may now be required to cover the higher costs, Nandlall said GPL was still calculating the figure. “We’re doing calculations now. It’s in the billions, but we’re doing the calculations now,” he said, while stressing the scale of the company’s fuel consumption.
President Dr Irfaan Ali and US EXIM Bank President and Chairman John Jovanovic in New York ment in the Deepwater Port. “US EXIM today has once again demonstrated its full commitment to this transformative agenda, and being part of some of our historic projects ahead of us,” President Ali said. Dr Ali said the bank’s
GPL continues to absorb higher fuel costs without increasing electricity rates –– CEO says
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Election fraud trial: Forensic auditor details vote discrepancies
-says declarations produced variations when compared to SOPs
AS the electoral fraud trial recommenced on Monday, forensic auditor Terrence Jaskaran told the court that his examination of certified Statements of Poll (SOPs) and Form 24 declarations produced significant variations in the 2020 General and Regional Elections, including changes to the overall vote margins between the major political parties. Jaskaran, who continued his evidence before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty, testified that his conclusions were numerical in nature and focused on identifying differences between the certified copies of SOPs provided to him and the declarations. He said his analysis of the certified SOPs from all 10 regions showed the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPPC) with significantly more votes than the APNU+AFC in the General Election. However, Jaskaran said that if the March 13, 2020 dec-
Terrence Jaskaran larations had replaced the figures contained in the certified SOPs, the resulting net variation would have been approximately 22,000 votes, which would have placed APNU+AFC about 7,000 votes ahead of the PPPC. He said the March 5 declarations produced a similar
effect, with APNU+AFC showing 20,243 more votes than in the certified SOP tally, while the PPPC showed 2,959 fewer votes. According to Jaskaran, the combined effect was a variation of approximately 23,000 votes, which would have changed the overall position from a 15,000-vote PPPC lead to an approximately 7,000-vote APNU+AFC lead.
The witness also outlined discrepancies in the Regional Elections. The March 13 declarations produced a variation of approximately 21,000 votes and would have resulted in an APNU+AFC lead of about 6,000 votes, he said. Jaskaran’s evidence also highlighted differences in Region Four. For the March 5 declaration, he said APNU+AFC record-
ed 20,897 more votes than were contained in his tally of the certified SOPs. Against this backdrop, Jaskaran told the court that his methodology involved extracting the figures from the available certified SOPs, entering the results for each political party into an Excel spreadsheet and comparing the totals with the Form 24 declarations. However, under cross-examination by defence attorney Nigel Hughes, Jaskaran acknowledged that he had not investigated the integrity of the documents provided to him or the causes of the discrepancies identified. “My conclusions were basically numerical in nature,” Jaskaran said during his evidence. He also agreed that when he was retained, his assignment was as a forensic audit consultant and that the specific work requested by the Guyana Police Force, involved a tabulation exercise, analysis of certified SOPs against Form 24 declarations and a variance analysis and report. Hughes also questioned Jaskaran about evidence concerning the removal of a GECOM server by its IT Manager at that time. Jaskaran said he was not aware of the circumstances at the time he conducted his analysis and had only subsequently seen headlines about the matter online.
The prosecution objected to Hughes putting aspects of Giddings’ evidence to Jaskaran, with the court hearing exchanges over the circumstances surrounding the server. To this end, Jaskaran maintained that his work was confined to the numerical comparison of the documents supplied to him and did not extend to determining how any discrepancies occurred. The case is expected to continue today with other witnesses set to take the stand. The forensic auditor last week told the court that his analysis of the certified SOPs showed significant differences when compared to the March 5 and March 13 Form 24 declarations for Region Four. For the March 5 declaration, APNU+AFC recorded 136,458 votes compared with 116,215 in the SOP tally, a variance of 20,243 votes, while the March 13 declaration recorded 136,057 votes, a difference of 19,842 votes. The PPP/C, meanwhile, had 80,288 votes in the SOP tally, compared with 77,329 in the March 5 declaration. The election fraud trial centres on allegations surrounding the tabulation and declaration of results from the 2020 polls, a process that led to months of political uncertainty and legal battles, before a final See page 5
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Rodrigues-Birkett presents UN Secretary-General candidacy to Egyptian Foreign Minister
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 22, 2026
–maintains strong position in race
G U YA N A’S candidate for United Nations Secretary-General, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, has continued her diplomatic outreach for the post, presenting her candidacy to Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty during an engagement on the margins of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly in New York. The meeting took place on Sunday, September 20, according to Egypt’s State Information Service, which said Abdelatty heard Rodrigues-Birkett’s vision and priorities for the future of the United Nations and ways to strengthen the organisation’s capacity to respond to growing international challenges. Rodrigues-Birkett’s presentation forms part of her ongoing engagements with UN member states as the selection process for the organisation’s next Secretary-General advances. During the meeting, she outlined her vision for a more agile, efficient and effective United Nations and exchanged views with the Egyptian minister on the organisation’s future role in addressing global challenges.
Abdelatty, according to the Egyptian government, reaffirmed Egypt’s support for the United Nations and the multilateral international system. He also stressed the importance of adherence to the UN Charter and international law in advancing international peace, security and cooperation. Rodrigues-Birkett, Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, was formally nominated by Guyana in June for the Secretary-General position. Her nomination was subsequently endorsed by CARICOM Heads of Government, who identified her as the region’s candidate. Her candidacy comes as the UN undertakes the process of selecting a successor to Secretary-General António Guterres, whose second term ends on December 31, 2026. The UN process provides for the Security Council to recommend a candidate to the 193-member General Assembly, which makes the formal appointment. Rodrigues-Birkett has presented a platform focused on strengthening multilateralism and reforming the
Election fraud trial: Forensic ...
From page 4
declaration was made five months after election day. Those on trial include former Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield, former Deputy CEO Roxanne Myers, former Region Four Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo, former Health Minister Volda Lawrence and People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) member Carol Smith-Joseph. Also, before the court are former GECOM employees Michelle Miller, Sheffern February, Enrique Livan and Denise Babb-Cummings. The defendants collectively face 19 charges,
including conspiracy to defraud and misconduct in public office. All have pleaded not guilty and were released on cash bail. The prosecution, led by King’s Counsel Darshan Ramdhani, contends that the accused played critical roles in efforts to inflate votes in favour of the then APNU+AFC, while reducing votes cast for the PPP/C. Following a five-month period of litigation and a Caribbean Community (CARICOM)-supervised national recount, the PPP/C was declared the winner of the elections with 233,336 votes to APNU+AFC’s 217,920.
Guyana’s candidate for United Nations Secretary-General, Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett presenting her candidacy to Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty during an engagement on the margins of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly in New York UN’s systems and practices to make the organisation more responsive to member states and global developments. In her June interactive dialogue with member states and civil society, she said the organisation faced challenges including continuing conflicts and crises, slow prog-
ress towards the Sustainable Development Goals and a liquidity crisis. She proposed greater efficiency within the Secretariat, improved handling of mandates and stronger alignment across the UN system. She has also emphasised the importance of ensuring that the UN delivers across
Businessman shot, robbed of gold chains in Sophia A 38-year-old businessman was shot in the right leg and robbed of three yellow metal chains valued at approximately $720,000 during an alleged robbery under arms at ‘A’ Field, Sophia, Greater Georgetown, on Saturday night. Police said the incident occurred at about 23:30h on September 19, 2026, after the businessman was approached by two unidentified men while he was in his yard using his cellular phone. Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects were wearing masks and reflective vests, with one reportedly armed with a handgun. The men allegedly confronted the businessman and attempted to take the chains he was wearing. During the confrontation, a round was discharged, striking the victim in his right leg above the knee. The suspects then allegedly removed the three chains and fled the area. The injured businessman was taken by relatives to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where he remains under medical care. His condition has been described as stable. As part of the investigation, police have questioned several persons and examined CCTV cameras in the area. No arrests have been made up to press time, and investigations into the circumstances surrounding the robbery and shooting are continuing.
its three principal areas of work, peace and security, development, and human rights, while working with member states, regional organisations, civil society and other stakeholders. Rodrigues-Birkett brings more than 25 years of public-sector and international experience to the candidacy. She has served as Guyana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and International Cooperation, Minister of Amerindian Affairs, an international civil servant with the Food and Agriculture Organization, and Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the UN since 2020. She also led Guyana’s delegation during the coun-
try’s 2024–2025 tenure on the Security Council. The outreach to Egypt comes as candidates engage governments and UN stakeholders ahead of the eventual decision. The UN maintains a public list of nominated candidates and their vision statements as part of the current selection process. For Guyana, the candidacy places one of its senior diplomats at the centre of an international process involving the UN’s 193 member states and the Security Council’s 15 members. The next Secretary-General is expected to assume office at the beginning of January 2027.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Guyana at the United Nations: Six decades
GUYANA’S presence in the United Nations 60 years later is a reminder that the power of a small state is not necessarily measured in the dimensions of its geography. Its commitment is measured by the regularity of its engagement, the principles it espouses and the contribution it makes to the international community. Guyana was admitted by acclamation to the United Nations at its 21st session of the General Assembly on September 20, 1966, just months after attaining Independence. It marked the country’s entry into the premier institution of multilateral diplomacy at a time when global affairs were being shaped by decolonization, the Cold War, Apartheid, disarmament and the struggle for a fairer international economic order. At its inception, Guyana joined the organisation with an expressed determination to be “an active rather than a sleeping member”. That aspiration has been reflected in the country’s continued engagement with the work of the UN, six decades later. The anniversary, therefore, deserves more than ceremonial acknowledgment. It is an opportunity to reflect on what multilateralism has meant for Guyana and why Guyana continues to hold the view that the United Nations is important to its national interests. The principles of sovereign equality, self-determination, non-intervention and peaceful settlement of disputes were not abstract principles for a newly independent State.
They were intimately connected with the experience of coming out of colonialism and finding a voice in an international system dominated by larger and more powerful States. Guyana then took positions on some of the defining international issues of the time, including the struggle against Colonialism and Apartheid, nuclear disarmament, and the campaign for a more equitable international economic system. It participated in more than pronouncements. Guyanese diplomats have held a number of important positions and offices in the UN, including the General Assembly, Security Council, and Economic and Social Council. Guyana is also a member of bodies dealing with human rights, international law and gender equality. Guyana has chaired the Group of 77 and China, the largest coalition of developing countries in the UN system, twice. In fact, these responsibilities show that the country’s diplomatic engagement has not been limited to issues that directly impact Guyana. Guyana’s contribution to the UN has also been inextricably linked with the issues affecting developing and small states. Perhaps the most obvious example is climate change in our own time. Guyana, a country with large forest resources and a small population, has increasingly used international forums to advocate for approaches that recognise both the global value of forests and the development needs of forest countries. The UN, for its part, has remained an important partner in Guyana’s development.
Through its agencies and country team, the organisation has supported programs in development, governance, health, education, environmental protection and other areas of national life. That relationship illustrates an important point: Multilateralism is more than simply making speeches in New York. Its practical value lies, in the end, in whether international institutions can assist countries to address problems that transcend national boundaries. Yet the UN itself has serious challenges to confront. Armed conflict, humanitarian crises, climate change, economic inequality, threats to international peace and security and discord among major powers continue to pose a challenge to the effectiveness of multilateral institutions. But for smaller states, the answer to those difficulties cannot be simple disengagement. The existence of vulnerabilities in the international system makes constructive engagement all the more important, not less. The 60th anniversary of Guyana comes at a particularly momentous time in this regard. The country has nominated Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett for the position of UN Secretary-General, inserting a Guyanese diplomat into the international process to choose the next head of the organisation. Her candidacy is important, regardless of the final outcome, because it is a sign that Guyana is willing to contribute at the highest level of the multilateral system. It also reflects the principle that leadership in international affairs should not be decided
by the size or economic weight of a country. The anniversary should, therefore, spark a wider national dialogue around Guyana’s role in diplomacy. An active foreign policy is not only about taking up seats in international organisations. It calls for constant readiness, credible diplomacy, informed involvement, and the ability to convert international engagement into tangible benefits for the Guyanese people. It takes consistency, too. Principles such as respect for sovereignty, international law, and peaceful settlement of disputes are of particular importance to a small state whose security and development are heavily dependent on a rules-based international environment. Guyana’s six decades of membership in the UN has shown that being a member can give a small country a platform to advocate issues of global importance. But that platform also comes with responsibilities as well as opportunities. As Guyana marks 60 years of UN membership, the best tribute is not simply to rehash the country’s diplomatic achievements. It is to reaffirm the responsibility to remain an informed, constructive and principled participant in the international system. The world Guyana entered in 1966 was a world very different from the world of 2026. The challenges are different but the need for dialog, co-operation, international law and collective action is the same. For Guyana, the pledge made six decades ago to be an active and not a sleeping member is as relevant today as it was at Independence.
OPR outreach promotes accountability in Region One
THE Guyana Police Force’s Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) has taken its public-awareness and accountability drive to Region One, engaging police ranks and residents on professional standards, ethical conduct and mechanisms for addressing complaints. The outreach, conducted from September 14 to 18, formed part of the OPR’s efforts to strengthen accountability within the Force while improving relations and public confidence between police and the communities they serve. Regional Division One Commander, Senior Superintendent K. Ramana, together with Superintendent C. Duncan and Assistant Superintendent P. Narine, attended the opening session and introduced the OPR team to ranks
in the region. Inspector Osafa Hamilton and Sergeant Shane Tobin led the lectures and discussions during the outreach. The exercise began at the Mabaruma Police Station, where ranks received guidance on work ethics, standard police procedures, the proper handling of evidence and protocols governing complaints against members of the Force. The OPR team also engaged members of the public, with ranks accompanied by Superintendent Duncan meeting market vendors, business owners and taxi drivers. During those engagements, residents were provided with information on how to raise grievances and contact the OPR directly when they have concerns involving members of the Police Force.
The outreach subsequently took the team to Port Kaituma and Matthew’s Ridge, where similar discussions were held with police ranks and residents. The engagements formed part of the OPR’s broader focus on promoting professional conduct within the Force while ensuring that members of the public are aware of the channels available to them when seeking redress or clarification on police-related concerns. The initiative also provided an opportunity for police and residents in the remote communities to interact directly, with the OPR reinforcing the importance of ethical conduct, accountability and effective communication in maintaining public trust.
The engagements formed part of the OPR’s broader focus on promoting professional conduct within the Force while ensuring that members of the public are aware of the channels available to them when seeking redress or clarification on police-related concerns
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 22, 2026
The words of Pastor Ronald Mc Garrell that touched me
I came out of a religious home, but the Michael Forde Bookstore (MFB) had an influence on me moving towards agnosticism and then full-blown atheism. At 17, I worked at that bookstore owned by the PPP situated at the bottom of Freedom House. At 17, it was not easy to read philosophy books, and MFB carried a huge range of philosophy books from Socrates in ancient times to Jean Paul Sartre. It was easy to digest books on Marxist philosophy. Their explorations, explanations and extrapolations were done in simple terms. If you want to read a book that makes philosophy simple, then try “Marxist Philosophy’ by V.Afanasyev, Progress Publishers, 1968. The book has gone out of print for decades now. Unfortunately, Afanasyev did not include Martin Heidegger. I don’t think you can understand philosophy without Heidegger’s magnum opus, “Being and Time,” a brilliant expedition into philosophy. By the time I was 20, I was no longer a believer. There were a few religious persons in my life, but none came closer to having an influence on me as Pastor Ronald McGarrell, who died last week. If I were on my hospital bed, they would have had to wheel me into the service to give one of the eulogies. I did so last Saturday, and it gave me an opportunity to tell Guyanese what a good human Guyana has lost. In my eulogy, I said that Ronald was philosophically impeccable. I explained what I meant by that. He was the perfect being. Ronald and I had nothing in common. I was a believer; he was a devout and devoted believer. I spent a lifetime in politics; he eschewed that kind of societal activity for obvious reasons. All we had in common was mutual fondness. I didn’t know why he liked me. I liked him because I saw in him qualities I don’t see often in humans. There comes a time in your life when you meet someone, and in that very moment, you take to them. For some inexplicable reason, there is an instant liking. That has happened to me with President Ali and Ronald. I have shared a wonderful friendship with Pastor Dr. Ronald McGarrell for over 30 years. This was a human that had the touch of uniqueness. In a country torn with ubiquitous quarrels centered on race, culture and politics, Pastor McGarrrell rose above the ordinariness and banalities that characterized human existence in Guyana. In my eulogy, I offered two examples of his influence on me. There was a physical attack on me that made the headlines. He came to me and spoke quietly about his concern, and he prayed for me. He never asked me even to repeat a word of his prayer. This was out of respect for whom I was – a person without religious convictions.
Pastor Dr. Ronald McGarrell There was a larger physical attack on me on another occasion, and in that moment, as a non-religious person, I felt a subtle influence on me in the realm of the divine that came through the words of consolation from Pastor McGarrell. I have been very close to two high parishioners of the Catholic Church – Jesuit priest, Andrew Morrison and Sisters of Mercy Nun, Mary Noel Menezes. I never had a religious conversation with them. In times of trouble, they would just wish me well and urge me to be careful. The only time in my life when a religious person instilled in me that there will be a divine intervention in my life was with Pastor Ronald McGarrell. On the second occasion of endangerment, his words were piercing. He said words to me that I will never forget, and I told the mourners just that in my eulogy last Saturday. He said that he failed me in the first episode, and he has come again not only to save me but also to redeem himself. This was real complex stuff coming from a religious man. He asked me to believe in him when he said that I will never walk alone in this life because he will be there. I remember his words right now ringing out of my ears. He told me that I will not see him, I will not hear him, his shadow will not be seen, but he will be there. At that moment, you get lost in the inspiration that someone you like is giving off. Nothing happened to me after his second prayer, but despite my admiration for him, I simply did not have the capacity to succumb to proselytization. I will miss this good human. I wish he did not have to die. But I guess that is life. Goodbye, Ronald, forever. 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.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Vacuum-packed breadfruit, AC river boats and home-cooked meals for busy parents –– innovative ideas shaping Guyana’s new Development Bank
WHEN President Dr Irfaan Ali sat down with bankers and business leaders to discuss the soonto-be-launched Guyana Development Bank (GDB), it quickly became clear that the institution is being built around more than policy and legislation. It is already attracting a stream of concrete proposals from ordinary Guyanese, ranging from vacuum-packed breadfruit for supermarkets to air-conditioned (AC) river boats and set-menu home-
cooked meals for busy parents. Taken together, the ideas offer a vivid preview of how small entrepreneurs hope to turn the bank’s collateral-free, interest-free financing into sustainable livelihoods. “This really has the potential of unlocking major opportunities. Already, we are seeing a lot of interest. People are writing in. Groups are writing in. Already, we have hundreds of letters coming in,” President Ali said on Sunday during a discussion.
One proposal, already engaging the attention of Housing Minister Collin Croal, comes from a group of young people in Region One who want to tackle the longstanding transport challenges faced by residents there. As outlined by President Ali, they have approached the authorities with a plan to invest in an air-conditioned, 44-seater vessel to shuttle passengers between Port Kaituma and Charity. On the coast, a second group based in Charity would opPresident Dr. Irfaan Ali erate a bus service to take those same passengers on to Georgetown for a standard fare. “A group of young people met with the Minister of Housing in Region One and said, ‘We want to be part of providing the solution for transportation going into Region One. We want to invest in an air-conditioned boat, 44-seater, that would go from Port Kaituma to Charity, but we want, when this boat gets to Charity, another set of young people in Charity to provide a transportation service with a bus to take these people from Charity to Georgetown.’” Agro-processing is another recurring theme in the ideas now circling the bank. On the East Bank of Demerara, a family has put forward a proposal to offer a weekly
set menu to working parents, allowing households to pre-order daily lunches or dinners for their children at an affordable, fixed price. Under their model, families with several children could pick up a variety of hot, freshly cooked dishes every afternoon, tailored to different tastes, without the strain of late-evening cooking after work. Similar thinking is emerging from the State House kitchen itself, where one staff member has suggested using a modest G$500,000 loan to buy breadfruit in bulk, season and pre-cook it, and then vacuum-pack the product for sale through major supermarkets such as Massy. Customers would simply “open, fry and serve”, while a local micro-enterprise quietly grows behind the scenes.
President Ali also spoke of employees who see opportunities within their own workplaces. One young man, he recounted, had approached him after identifying a gap in staff transport. The worker believed he could provide a reliable service for colleagues, using GDB financing to purchase a vehicle and regularise what is now an informal, ad hoc arrangement. In other cases, women who currently prepare small quantities of pepper sauce, plantain chips or traditional snacks at home are exploring how the bank might help them scale up production, improve packaging and negotiate shelf space in local and regional supermarkets. For Dr Ali, these stories are not tangential to the bank; they are precisely the rationale for its creation. “This is not a grant. This is your opportunity to earn. This is your opportunity to pay back. This is an opportunity to build your credit, because we’re going to use this to help you build your credit, also your credit score,” the President said, adding: “This is really economic empowerment, equity, social empowerment, family empowerment, women’s empowerment all coming together, and that is what these types of banks do for a community and a society, especially empowering rural Guyana.”
VPAC’s Bailey challenges Mohamed over claim police deleted Facebook account VPAC member Francis Bailey has challenged businessman Azurddin Mohamed over his allegation that the Guyana Police Force deleted his Facebook account while he was in custody. Mohamed was among three men detained and taken to the Leonora Police Station after the vehicle in which they were travelling was intercepted near President Dr Irfaan Ali’s private residence, where the trio was allegedly operating a drone in the vicinity. Bailey has pressed Mohamed to clearly identify who shut down the Facebook page and why, questioning the credibility of the claim that the police were responsible and suggesting that the public is being treated “like a pack of fools” if these questions
VPAC’s Francis Bailey remain unanswered. Earlier this month, police said ranks acted on reports that occupants of a black Toyota Land Cruiser were operating a drone in the area. The vehicle was stopped along the Windsor Forest Public Road, West Coast Demerara, where
ranks reportedly found a DJI drone in the trunk, along with four cellphones. Mohamed was travelling in the vehicle with driver Eugene Thorne, 35, and technician Dwayne Ross, 25. Mohamed denied owning or operating the drone and was subsequently released on self-bail. Ross reportedly told police that the drone belonged to him, while acknowledging that his operator’s licence had expired in 2023. In a separate incident nearby, police intercepted another vehicle and questioned its driver, 20-year-old Mario Mohamed. Follow-up searches at the men’s residences reportedly led to the discovery of a second drone at Ross’s home.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Dr Rovin Deodat to be laid to rest Today
VETERAN broadcaster and communications specialist Dr Rovin Deodat A.A., whose distinctive voice and mastery of the English language made him a familiar presence in Guyanese homes for decades, will be laid to rest on Tuesday, September 22, following funeral services at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Brickdam. Dr Deodat, who died on Friday, September 11, at the age of 79, will be remembered for a broadcasting career spanning several decades, as well as for his contributions to education, communications, media training and public service. His body is scheduled to arrive at the cathedral at 9:00 a.m., with viewing, tributes and the eulogy from 9:00 to 9:55 a.m. The funeral service will begin at 10:00 a.m. and conclude at 10:30 a.m., followed by cremation at Memorial Gardens at noon. For those unable to attend in person, the National Communications Network (NCN) has arranged for the proceedings to be streamed via Zoom from 9:00 a.m. (Meeting ID: 836 6733 5088 Passcode: 297058) Dr Deodat began his broadcasting career at the now-defunct Radio Demerara and went on to establish himself as one of the most recognisable voices in Guyana’s broadcasting history.
He was particularly associated with the programmes “From Word to Word” and “Have You Ever Wondered?”, with the former becoming a fixture for listeners interested in language. Through “From Word to Word”, Dr Deodat examined the meanings, origins, development, pronunciation and proper use of words, effectively turning a radio programme into an informal language lesson for generations of Guyanese. NCN continued to broadcast “From Word to Word” on Voice of Guyana 102.5 FM, with Dr Deodat remaining listed as its presenter in 2026. Earlier this year, the network also honoured him for his contribution to radio. His influence extended well beyond the broadcast studio. Dr Deodat held a PhD in Communications, a Master’s degree in English from Simon Fraser University and a Bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Guyana. He served as Communication Adviser to the Office of the President and later as Director of Education, Information and Training at the Environmental Protection Agency. He also worked as a communications consultant. Another significant part of his professional legacy was his contribution to the development of regional and community broadcasting,
particularly in hinterland and Indigenous communities. As coordinator of the Government’s Regional Radio Project, Dr Deodat was involved in the development of radio stations in several regions and in training people to work in broadcasting. In 2018, he trained potential broadcasters in Aishalton ahead of the commissioning of Radio Aishalton. The following year, a regional radio workshop brought together more than 40 broadcasters from Indigenous communities in Regions One, Six, Seven, Eight and Nine. His contribution to the country was formally recognised in 2018 when he was conferred with the Golden Arrow of Achievement (AA). Beyond his own programmes and professional accomplishments, Dr Deodat was widely regarded as a teacher and mentor who helped prepare younger media practitioners for careers in broadcasting and communications. The Guyana Press Association has also recognised his contribution to the expansion of community broadcasting and the training of young broadcasters. President Dr Irfaan Ali, in expressing condolences following his death, recalled Dr Deodat as a broadcaster, educator, communications professional and consultant whose voice had become a daily companion to genera-
Ten years on the run: Ojha charged over 2015 murder of Nephi Noel Luther
NEARLY 11 years after Nephi Noel Luther was shot dead in Georgetown, Kanand Ojha has been charged with murder in connection with the 2015 killing. Ojha appeared on Monday, September 21, 2026, before Chief Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, where the murder charge was read to him. He was arrested on Friday, September 18, by ranks of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters after being returned to Guyana from the United States. The development brings renewed attention to a case that had remained unresolved in relation to one of the two men originally wanted by Guyanese authorities in connection with Luther’s death. Luther, 20, was shot at about 02:35 hours on July 22, 2015, at the corner of Carmichael and Quamina Streets, Georgetown. He was subsequently taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where he was pronounced dead. Contem-
Charged: Kanand Ojha porary reports stated that he had suffered a single gunshot wound to the chest. Police had initially issued wanted bulletins for Ojha and Ron “Andel” Forde following the killing. Forde was subsequently arrested, charged and eventually sentenced to 20 years in prison in June 2017 after pleading guilty to the lesser offence of manslaughter. Ojha remained outside the jurisdiction for years. The Guyana Police Force issued a wanted bulletin for him in July 2019. According to reports, Ojha was arrested in Queens,
Dead: Nephi Noel Luther New York, on September 8, 2025, during a coordinated operation involving US law-enforcement agencies and Guyanese authorities. His subsequent removal from the United States led to his return to Guyana on Friday, September 18, when he was handed over to local law-enforcement authorities and taken to CID Headquarters. The case has involved co-operation between Guyanese and US law-enforcement authorities, including under the Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters framework.
tions of Guyanese. Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister Kwame McCoy also reflected on Dr Deodat’s influence, particularly during his own early years in broadcasting, and recalled his contribution to language and professional standards within the sector. As family, colleagues, former students and members of the wider broadcasting fraternity prepare to bid farewell to the veteran communicator, Dr Deodat’s legacy extends beyond the programmes that made him known. It is also reflected in the broadcasters he trained,
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Dr Rovin Deodat the communities reached “From Word to Word” has through regional radio and fallen silent, but the lessons the generations of listeners and professional standards introduced to the precision, associated with his long meaning and power of words. career remain part of the For many Guyanese, country’s broadcasting herthe familiar voice behind itage.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Rapid response team to expand as child protection services strengthened ––– Gov’t spends $492.6M on childcare and protection in first half of 2026
THE Government of Guyana spent $492.6 million on childcare and protection during the first half of 2026, while plans are underway to significantly strengthen the country’s response to child abuse and expand support services for vulnerable children and families. Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr Vindhya Persaud told the Guyana Chronicle that the ministry is moving to expand its rapid response team for child abuse, introduce enhanced digital tracking and monitoring, strengthen parenting programmes and expand foster care as part of efforts to improve the national child protection system. The initiatives come as the government continues to invest in infrastructure and programmes aimed at providing safer environments and greater support for children. According to the Ministry of Finance’s 2026 Mid-Year
Report, the six-month expenditure included the completion of the Providence Day and Night Care Centre and rehabilitation works at the Children and Family Care Centre at Plum Park. Design work also continued for three additional day-and-night-care centres in Regions Two, Five and Six, with construction expected to commence or continue during the second half of the year. In addition, 10 new childcare facilities were supported through grants of $200,000 each, enabling the establishment of safe and secure care services, including homebased care. The report noted that 376 facilities were registered to provide day-care services, with 1,100 caregivers involved in the sector. A further 254 caregivers received training, while more than 1,700 families benefited from psychosocial support.
Minister Persaud said strengthening the ministry’s rapid response capacity remains a major priority, particularly in ensuring that reports of child abuse are not only addressed promptly but are followed through to their conclusion. “We are continuing to expand the rapid response team because that’s intervention when it comes to child abuse cases. We started small. We want to build that out to have a robust system across the country where reports are not only responded to but followed up,” she said. The ministry is also developing a digital tracking and monitoring system intended to provide a more comprehensive picture of child protection cases and the interventions being undertaken. “We are building out a digital tracking and monitoring system to be able to have a bird’s-eye view of what is
Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud going on, what is happening, is it followed up, what is the outcome,” Persaud said. The Minister said greater attention will also be paid to the mental health and overall wellbeing of children, particularly those in State care. The Government is examining options for State-supported mental health services
for children, while the ministry is also looking at expanding psychotherapy and other interventions for children in State care. Persaud said the objective is to ensure that children who enter State care receive the support needed to address their challenges and improve their prospects after leaving institutional care. “We are also working in State care to look at more psychotherapy and looking at how we can comprehensively address the challenges,” she said. Greater emphasis will also be placed on supporting parents, with the ministry planning to expand its parenting programme through Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres, communities and Parent-Teacher Associations. “We are amplifying our parenting programme through the newer ECD centres that we are setting up, and we are also looking at parenting in communities and through
PTAs. Because parenting is very challenging for a lot of parents now,” Persaud said. The foster care system is also expected to undergo further development as the ministry seeks to reduce the reliance on institutional care. “We are also increasing our foster care programme to over time remove institutionalising,” the Minister said. Alongside the service and infrastructure improvements, the ministry is preparing a number of policies aimed at strengthening the protection and welfare of children. Persaud said policies on alternative care and reunification, missing children, and children with incarcerated parents are expected to be introduced before the end of the year. The measures form part of the government’s broader efforts to strengthen the child protection system through improved intervention, monitoring, family support, alternative care and rehabilitation services.
AOAG calls for greater vigilance over runway incursions
THE Aviation Operators’ Association of Guyana (AOAG) is calling for stronger public awareness and tighter enforcement of safety measures at Guyana’s aerodromes, warning that animals, people and other obstructions entering active runways could have serious consequences for aircraft operations. The call comes in the wake of a recent aircraft occurrence at Mabaruma, Region One, which has renewed attention on the longstanding problem of runway incursions, particularly at hinterland aerodromes. The circumstances surrounding the Mabaruma occurrence remain subject to investigation by the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), but the AOAG said the broader issue of persons and animals entering aerodrome operating areas has been a persistent concern among aircraft operators. In a statement, the association stressed that take-offs and landings are among the most critical phases of flight, leaving pilots with very little time to respond when an unexpected obstruction appears on a runway. It said the sudden presence of a dog, cow, horse,
pig, bird, person, vehicle or other obstruction could require a pilot to abort a takeoff, conduct a go-around, apply emergency braking or take evasive action. Such manoeuvres, the AOAG said, can place passengers, crew and aircraft at considerable risk. The association is therefore urging residents living near aerodromes to keep livestock away from airport boundaries and to refrain from crossing runways or damaging perimeter fencing. Residents are also being encouraged to immediately report any animals, persons or other hazards observed within restricted aerodrome areas. The AOAG said greater attention is also needed from aerodrome operators, aircraft operators and the relevant authorities, particularly in strengthening runway inspections, perimeter security, wildlife-control measures and systems for reporting and responding to hazards. The association pointed out that hinterland aerodromes serve as critical links for communities across Guyana, facilitating medical evacuations, the movement of food and other supplies, passenger transportation,
government services, tourism and emergency response. As a result, it said protecting these facilities must be regarded as a shared responsibility involving communities, operators and regulatory authorities. The AOAG stressed that its objective was not to assign blame, but to prevent an avoidable tragedy. “A runway is not a roadway, footpath or grazing area,” the association said, warning that when an aircraft is taking off or landing, even a few seconds can determine whether an operation proceeds normally or develops into a serious accident. The association also called on the GCAA to exercise its regulatory authority to ensure that all aerodromes in Guyana are properly regulated and comply with required aviation safety standards. The call comes as hinterland air transport continues to play an important role in connecting remote communities with the rest of the country, making the safe operation of aerodromes particularly important for residents who depend on air services for essential travel and supplies.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Road safety outreaches are about behaviour change, not publicity, says Traffic Chief –– GPF records 3,011 traffic offences last week as enforcement continues
THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) recorded 3,011 traffic offences between September 13 and 19, with failures to wear safety helmets, dangerous parking, tinted windscreens and speeding among the violations detected during the week. When contacted for a comment, Traffic Chief Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Singh said the enforcement figures were being supported by continued public education aimed at changing road-user behaviour and improving safety on Guyana’s roads. Singh stressed that traffic education exercises conducted by police ranks are not intended merely for publicity or photo opportunities, but are designed to increase knowledge among motorists and other road users and reinforce responsible road-use practices. “Traffic Education exercises conducted by traffic ranks are not done for photo opportunities,” Singh said, explaining that the initiatives are intended to raise awareness, reinforce values among motorists and encourage the use of safety equipment. He said the ultimate objective is to achieve safer practices and improve the overall quality of road safety. HELMET VIOLATIONS REMAIN PROMINENT During the reporting period, police recorded 244 cases of persons failing to wear safety helmets, while 63 cases involved motorists carrying pillion riders who were not wearing helmets. Driving under the influence (DUI) accounted for 54 cases, while 369 motorists were cited for speeding. Police also recorded 102 seatbelt violations and 123 cases involving motorists leaving vehicles in dangerous positions. Other offences included 114 cases involving tinted motor vehicles, 102 unlicensed drivers, 114 breaches of prescribed fitness conditions, 72 cases involving unlighted vehicles, 47 at the front and 25 at the rear, and 15 breaches of traffic-light signals. According to the Traffic Department, all 114 tint-re-
lated cases concerned the front glass of motor vehicles. The department also reported an increase in the detection of unlicensed drivers, with an equal number of breaches relating to insurance. The enforcement figures highlight several areas of road-user behaviour that continue to require attention, particularly the use of protective equipment by motorcyclists, impaired driving, speeding and the safe positioning of vehicles on public roads.
NCN 102.5 FM. The geographic spread of the initiatives covered communities from Georgetown and the East Coast and East Bank of Demerara to West Coast Demerara, Berbice, Essequibo, Region Nine and the North West District. Traffic ranks also conducted education activities at taxi services, minibuses and hire-car facilities, reflecting the department’s focus on reaching both private motorists and operators involved in public transportation.
EDUCATION ACROSS REGIONS Alongside enforce ment, Traffic Department ranks conducted lectures and outreach activities at communities, workplaces, transport facilities, bars, police stations and other public locations across the country. During the week, education sessions were held at locations including Section D Field, Sophia; Public Road #65; Brickdam and Turkeyen police stations; De Kinderen; Blairmont; Farm Housing Scheme; Parika; Anna Regina; Ruimveldt; Sheriff Street; Tuschen; La Grange; Rose Hall Town; Soesdyke Junction; Independence Boulevard; Lethem; Arawanza; the University of Guyana access road; Maruranau; Moblissa; Carifesta Avenue; Camp Street and Regent Street. The programme also included engagements with Guyana Water Incorporated and a radio programme on
LINKING ENFORCEMENT TO SAFER ROADS The Traffic Department’s approach combines enforcement with education, with police seeking to ensure that road users understand the risks associated with violations and the importance of complying with traffic regulations. The emphasis on helmets and seatbelts is particularly significant because these measures are intended to reduce the severity of injuries when crashes occur. Similarly, enforcement against DUI and speeding targets behaviours that can increase the likelihood and seriousness of road collisions. Singh said the desired outcome of the education exercises is not simply an increase in motorists’ knowledge, but a change in behaviour that translates into safer practices on the country’s roadways. The Traffic Department’s weekly figures, the Traffic Chief noted pro-
Traffic ranks also conducted education activities with motorcyclists
A traffic rank shares out educational materials during an interaction with a driver during a recent outreach vide both an enforcement tinued public education is snapshot and an indication being directed as the GPF of the areas in which con- seeks to improve road-user
Traffic Chief, Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Singh compliance and reduce the human cost of traffic crashes.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 22, 2026
$2.9B spent on expanding access to water in first half of 2026 –– over 10,000 residents expected to benefit from new wells and water distribution works
THE government of Guyana has laid the foundation to better develop access to water across the country. The mid-year report, produced by the Ministry of Finance, highlights that $2.9 billion was spent to expand access to safe and reliable potable water in the first half of 2026, with more than 100,000 Guyanese set to benefit from projects that are either underway or scheduled to begin in the second half of the year. While this represents only a portion of the $21.6 billion allocated, the work done in the first six months of 2026 has impacted communities nationwide, with access to water expanding and a number of hinterland communities benefiting from new wells. The $2.9 billion invested in the first half of the year saw the government lay the groundwork for efforts to ensure nationwide access to safe and reliable potable water. During this period, work advanced on wells across the country, including at Westminster, Yarrowkabra, Melanie Damishana, No. 56 Village, Johanna and Yakusari. Work on these wells is expected to be completed in the second half of the
Old England. These wells are benefiting over 10,000 residents. Additionally, works were completed on an elevated trestle water system at Kangaruma and a solar PV system at Isseneru in Region 7. In the second half of 2026, the report highlights that work will advance on wells at several areas including Port Kaituma, Mabaruma, Lower Moraikobai, Orealla, Siparuta, Batavia, Campbelltown, Mahdia, Sand Hills and Ebini, as well as water supply systems at areas including
Bethany, Mashabo, Batavia, Waramadong, Kato, Moco Moco, Yupukari, Katoka and Meriwau. Furthermore, work is expected to commence on solar PV systems at areas including Baramita and Jawalla, to benefit over 4,000 residents. Investment was also geared towards ensuring water quality and service, with the government commissioning a new plant at Five Miles, Bartica, which will serve approximately 6,000 residents. Additionally, works have advanced on several large water treatment plants, including five new plants at Maria’s Delight, Wakenaam, Leguan, Adventure and Bath, which are on schedule for completion this year, and the new surface water treatment plant at Hope. The Hope project also includes the laying of over 33 km of new transmission system from Cane Grove to Cove and John, to facilitate the efficient operation of the plant, which is also expected to be completed this year. These initiatives will benefit over 90,000 residents when completed. In the second half of 2026, works are expected to commence on several other new water
treatment plants, including the upgrading of Shelter Belt and six small water treatment plants at areas including Providence, Agricola, Turkeyen, Mon Repos, De Hoop and Calcutta. Works are also expected to commence on the surface water treatment plant at Diamond. Overall, the projects outlined in the report will reach residents in communities nationwide. New wells and system extensions set to begin in the second half of the year will benefit over 106,500 residents once completed, while solar PV systems in the hinterland are set to serve over 4,000 residents. The new wells already completed in hinterland communities are benefiting over 10,000 residents, and the five new treatment plants and the surface water treatment plant at Hope will serve over 90,000 residents when completed. As the second half of the year unfolds, works on wells, transmission systems and treatment plants are expected to move ahead, with several projects due for completion before the end of 2026, further improving access to safe and reliable water across the country.
Cadet Officer Earl Cornelius Cadet Officer Cornelius received the HLB ACME Advisers Prize for the Best Performing Student in Law Office Management, Accounting and Technology. Their academic accomplishments add to the professional value of the train-
ing, particularly within a law-enforcement environment where police officers routinely interact with legislation, legal procedures and the justice system. The completion of the LEC programme also provides the three ranks with an opportunity to further their legal careers. The certificate represents the professional stage of legal education for eligible graduates seeking admission to practise law in Guyana. Subject to satisfying the applicable admission requirements, the three police officers will be eligible to proceed towards admission to the Guyana Bar. For the GPF, the development adds to the pool of personnel who possess both operational law-enforcement
experience and formal legal training. Such expertise can contribute to greater understanding and application of legal requirements in policing and public service. The achievement is also of potential wider benefit to communities, as police officers with advanced legal training can contribute to more informed handling of matters involving criminal law, legal procedures and the rights and responsibilities of members of the public. The Guyana Police Force has congratulated ASP Cush, Cadet Officer Cornelius and Sergeant McLean-Douglas on completing the programme and recognised their achievement as they continue their professional service to Guyana.
A new solar-powered water system recently commissioned at Blackwater, a satellite village of Whitewater year. Moreover, the latter six months of 2026 will see works begin on new wells at several areas including Vergenoegen, Central Ruimveldt, Better Hope and Port Mourant. These wells, once completed, will benefit over 100,000 residents. Additionally, works on extensions to transmission and distribution systems are expected to begin at areas including Catherine, Airy Hall, Brothers, Gibraltar, Mibicuri, Nigg, Hampshire and Three Miles in Bartica. This push will provide first-time access to
over 6,500 residents. Together, these initiatives will benefit over 106,500 residents upon completion. Access to potable water was also expanded in Guyana’s hinterland communities, backed by a $430.4 million investment in the hinterland water supply programme. As the report outlined, the first six months of 2026 saw works advance significantly, including the completion of over 30 new wells in areas such as Mora, Siriki, Baracara, Kamarang, Micobie, Kwatamang and
Three GPF ranks complete legal studies in The Bahamas
THREE members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) have completed a two-year Legal Education Certificate (LEC) programme at the Eugene Dupuch Law School (EDLS) in The Bahamas, strengthening the Force’s complement of personnel with formal legal training. Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Travis Cush, Cadet Officer Earl Cornelius and Sergeant Candaceae McLean-Douglas were among 23 Guyanese who graduated with the Class of 2026. The Presentation of Graduates Ceremony was held on Saturday at the Margaritaville Beach Resort in Nassau. ASP Cush and Sergeant McLean-Douglas attended the ceremony, while Cadet Officer Cornelius was unable to
Assistant Superintendent Travis Cush and Woman Sergeant Candaceae Mc Lean-Douglas be present. The achievement was particularly notable for ASP Cush and Cadet Officer Cornelius, who received academic awards for their performances during the programme. ASP Cush was awarded
the Council’s Prize for the Most Outstanding Student in the Legal Aid Clinic. He also received the Callenders & Co. Save The Bays Environmental Law Clinic Prize for outstanding performance and his contribution to the Environmental Law Clinic.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 22, 2026
5,000 more acres, mining block on the cards for East Bank Berbice By Bebi Shafeah Oosman
EAST BANK BERBICE loggers could soon benefit from an additional 5,000 acres of forestry concession, a 1,200-acre mining block and a fully equipped furniture-making workshop, as the government moves to expand opportunities in East Bank Berbice for loggers. Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat announced the proposed interventions on Friday during an outreach with loggers and residents in the Mara, East Bank Berbice Area. However, access to several of the opportunities hinges on members resolving longstanding internal differences
and getting their association functioning effectively. The Minister’s visit followed an Open Day held at the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) office on Garrison Road, New Amsterdam, the previous week, where East Bank Berbice loggers approached him with several concerns. Among the issues raised were the need for additional lands to expand logging operations, access to areas for firewood production and challenges surrounding the functioning of their association. Bharrat subsequently committed to visiting the East Bank of Berbice to meet directly with stakeholders and explore possible solutions. During last Friday’s
meeting, he disclosed that the association currently has approximately 8,500 acres under its forestry concession and said the government is prepared to make an additional 4,000 to 5,000 acres available. Before this can happen, however, the Minister stressed that members must resolve the internal issues affecting the association. He pointed out that the association’s concession has not been renewed for approximately two years, despite tags being available through the Guyana Forestry Commission. Bharrat said the government is prepared to provide support, but members must first demonstrate their willingness to work together
and establish an effective organisation through which assistance and opportunities can be channelled. In another major proposal, Bharrat said the association could also be given an opportunity to diversify into the mining sector. Once the organisation is functioning effectively, he said, the government is prepared to allocate a mining block comprising approximately 1,200 acres. He explained that while a mining block covers approximately 1,200 acres, actual gold-mining activities generally require only a portion of that land, depending on the quality and location of the gold-bearing deposits. Bharrat also floated the
possibility of consolidating the various logging, firewood and other small groups operating along the East Bank of Berbice into a single association representing loggers and miners. Efforts to reorganise the stakeholders are expected to advance shortly, with the Guyana Forestry Commission scheduled to meet loggers, the firewood association and other small associations operating along the East Bank of Berbice on September 27 at Mara. Meanwhile, Minister Bharrat also announced that jewellery-making and joinery training will be introduced in Berbice before the end of the year, opening the programmes to both young people and adults interested
in acquiring new skills. The Minister said the interventions are intended to create additional livelihood opportunities while allowing communities to derive greater economic benefits from the country’s natural resources. Several loggers and residents who attended Friday’s outreach welcomed the proposals and expressed appreciation that the Minister had followed through on his commitment to visit the area after hearing their concerns at the GFC Open Day. Member of Parliament Zamal Hussain and Regional Vice Chairman of Region Six, Wajid Saheed Khan also attended the outreach, where they interacted with loggers, miners and residents.
Minister Vickram Bharrat meeting with loggers and residents in East Bank Berbice
–– engages contractors GUYANA Power and Light Inc. (GPL) is reviewing the progress of several major electricity infrastructure projects as the utility moves to strengthen the national power network amid rising demand for electricity. The review was conducted during a meeting between the Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation (MPUA), GPL and key contractors involved in the ongoing works. Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar led the engagement, which also included GPL’s Team Leader of the Executive Management Committee, Kesh Nandlall, and Dep-
uty Chief Executive Officer Bharat Harjohn. GPL Directors Ryan Ross and Shaun Hamlet, along with other senior representatives of the utility, also participated in the discussions. Contractors InterEnergy, PowerChina, China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMC) and Kalpataru Projects International Limited (KPIL) provided updates on the status of their respective projects, including implementation timelines, upcoming milestones and areas requiring further attention. The discussions also examined challenges affecting project execution and the
need for closer coordination among the utility, government and contractors to ensure that works remain on schedule and are completed within established deadlines. The projects form part of GPL’s wider programme to upgrade and modernise the country’s electricity infrastructure. The programme is intended to expand generation and network capacity while improving the reliability, resilience and operational efficiency of the electricity system. The latest review comes as electricity consumption continues to increase, placing greater demands on the national interconnected power system and highlighting
Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar led the engagement, which also included GPL’s Team Leader of the Executive Management Committee, Kesh Nandlall, and Deputy Chief Executive Officer Bharat Harjohn the need for continued investment in transmission and distribution infrastructure. Government and GPL have been advancing a
number of projects aimed at improving the network’s capacity to meet current and future electricity requirements, with the
works expected to support more reliable service as economic activity and demand for power continue to expand.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 22, 2026
MoAA highlights gains in Amerindian communities after first year
THE Ministry of Amerindian Affairs (MoAA) has expanded support for economic development, youth empowerment, community livelihoods and indigenous rights during the first year of the current administration, with greater emphasis being placed on village-led development. Minister of Amerindian Af-
fairs Sarah Browne-Shadeek, in an interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI), said the Ministry’s work over the past year has focused on responding to the needs identified by Amerindian communities while strengthening programmes designed to create sustainable opportunities. She said the Ministry’s mandate extends beyond de-
velopment projects to include advocacy for the rights of Amerindian peoples, addressing social issues, including various forms of abuse, and providing support to Amerindians who travel to Georgetown and require a safe place to stay. A major component of the Ministry’s development programme remains the Amerindian Development Fund (ADF),
which provides resources for villages to undertake projects in areas such as income generation, sports, education and culture. Browne-Shadeek said the Ministry’s approach is based on consultation with communities rather than imposing projects on them. “The Amerindian Development Fund in itself continues
to play a big part in Amerindian development, but it depends on what the village wants as well,” she said. The Minister explained that officials engage communities to determine their priorities before support is provided, noting that the process is intended to ensure that projects reflect the aspirations and needs of individual villages. Among the initiatives being pursued are investments in business hubs aimed at helping young Amerindians develop entrepreneurial ideas, create employment and achieve greater financial independence. The Ministry is also placing emphasis on the creative industries and the development of facilities that can serve multiple purposes. Browne-Shadeek pointed to Santa Rosa, where a multipurpose facility is scheduled for reconstruction. She said the upgraded centre is expected to accommodate a range of activities, including a salon or beauty centre, printery and recording studio for residents with creative and artistic talents. The Ministry has also supported groups of young people in establishing small businesses, including ice-making and printery ventures. The Minister said more such interventions are needed, while noting that Amerindian communities also benefit from investments delivered through other government agencies. She said the ADF is also being positioned to reach different groups within Amerindian communities, rather than focusing solely on a single category of beneficiaries. Separate from the ADF, communities receive direct transfers under the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), which are deposited into village bank accounts and allow communities to determine how those funds should be utilised. Browne-Shadeek said several communities have used those resources for projects designed to generate income and improve living standards. She highlighted Mainstay as one community where development initiatives have produced tangible benefits, while also pointing to projects in Mabaruma, including a guest house that provides a potential long-term source of income. Across the country, communities have also invested in home improvements, support for young entrepreneurs, farming, poultry and other livelihood activities. The Minister also highlighted the Community Support Officers (CSO) programme as an avenue through which young people can gain work experience and transition
Minister of Amerindian Affairs (MoAA) Sarah Browne-Shadeek. into other areas of employment and skills development. She said several CSOs have gone on to pursue technical training, including programmes in beauty care and cosmetology, while others have gained experience in health centres and government offices. According to BrowneShadeek, the programme has also created opportunities for some participants to transition into permanent positions within the public service. “We’ve had persons who would have been attached to other government agencies, and as vacancies open, they already know the trade, they already know the business, they already know the day-today operations of government offices,” she said. The Minister said such experience has allowed some former CSOs to be considered for employment or advancement when vacancies arise. Meanwhile, the Ministry continues to consult on a proposed review of the Amerindian Act, with BrowneShadeek stressing that the intention is to strengthen, rather than diminish, the rights of indigenous peoples. “We are going to review the Amerindian Act, but only to bring more rights and more benefits to indigenous people, not to take away any right already enshrined in the Act, but to add,” she said. She described the existing legislation as strong, but said greater public education is needed to ensure Amerindian communities understand the rights and opportunities already provided under the Act. Browne-Shadeek said the proposed review is therefore being accompanied by continued emphasis on education and awareness, as the Ministry seeks to ensure that indigenous communities are better positioned to understand and exercise their rights.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Special Branch Chief defends destruction of books related to Mohameds’ extradition request –– cites UK Official Secrets Act
SENIOR Superintendent of Police Prem Narine on Monday defended his decision to destroy three books containing notes made in the course of his duties, telling the court that he believed he was required to do so under the United Kingdom’s Official Secrets Act. Narine, Head of the Guyana Police Force’s Special Branch Unit, made the disclosure while under cross-examination by defence attorney Siand Dhurjon during the ongoing extradition proceedings against Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed and his father, businessman Nazar Mohamed. Narine, the prosecution’s second witness, has testified about his role in collecting and presenting documents connected to the United States extradition request, obtaining the arrest warrants and executing those warrants against the Mohameds on October 31, 2025. Dhurjon returned to the issue of the books Narine had previously acknowledged destroying by fire, questioning him about their contents and the nature of the information he recorded. Narine identified one of the destroyed books as his personal diary containing personal notes, while referring to the other two as books in which he made records. The defence sought to establish whether Narine would only have written down information he considered sufficiently important. Narine disagreed, stating he recorded information whenever he felt the need. “In those books, I would have recorded anything, be it important or not important, once I feel the need to,” Narine said. Dhurjon then questioned Narine about whether, as part of his police duties, he was required to record anything said by a person before, during or after an arrest. Narine said he did not believe this was a duty if he could recall what the person had said. The defence also challenged Narine over evidence concerning Nazar Mohamed’s arrest. Dhurjon pointed out
that Narine had testified that Nazar Mohamed told him he was “waiting for us to come,” which meant Mohamed was waiting for the police to arrive and arrest him. However, the statement was not recorded in Narine’s written statement in those exact words, a point Narine acknowledged during cross-examination. Dhurjon subsequently put to Narine that, under the judges’ rules, he was required to record the words of a person “word for word” in one of the books that he later destroyed. Narine responded that he did not know he was required to do so. The defence then returned to the reason for the destruction of the books, putting to Narine that he had disposed of them because he feared breaching the UK Official Secrets Act. After some initial clarification, Dhurjon put the matter directly to Narine, stating the reason he destroyed the books was because he believed it was part of his obligation under the Official Secrets Act. Narine replied, “Yes, that’s true”. Dhurjon also questioned Narine about the consequences of breaching the Act. The defence referred to potential penalties, including imprisonment, but the Chief Magistrate ultimately disallowed the question after noting that the extract of the Act being relied upon did not specify the penalties being put to the witness. Narine nevertheless acknowledged that he was aware there were penalties for breaching the Act. The defence then asked the police witness what obligation he believed he would have breached had he kept the documents instead of destroying them. Narine said he understood that he had signed a declaration concerning the protection of national secrets. “I understand that I sign a declaration to keep … the nation’s secret,” he said. Narine also confirmed during the cross-examination that he had consulted the police legal adviser about how to proceed with his testimony in the extradition proceedings. The UK Official Secrets
Act is a law intended to protect sensitive government information. It makes certain unauthorised disclosures of protected official information a criminal offence, particularly where disclosure could damage areas such as national security, defence, international relations, or law-enforcement operations. The questioning formed part of Dhurjon’s broader challenge to Narine’s handling and retention of notes made during his police duties. Narine had previously testified earlier this month that the three books were destroyed in January 2026. According to his account, the books were first shredded and the shredded material was subsequently burned at the compound of the Special Branch Unit. The destruction of the books later became the subject of clarification by the Guyana Police Force, which said the material comprised personal working notes that Narine had used in preparing his statement for the extradition proceedings. The Force maintained that the notes did not contain information of evidential value. It said the information considered relevant to the proceedings had already been incorporated into Narine’s formal statement, meaning the destroyed notes were not relied upon as part of the evidentiary record. The police also said the disposal of the material was carried out in accordance with established procedures. The extradition proceedings against the Mohameds are expected to resume on Tuesday at 9 a.m., with further cross-examination of Narine The extradition case stems from a request by the United States for the surrender of the Mohameds to face an 11-count federal indictment. The indictment includes allegations of wire fraud, mail fraud, money laundering, conspiracy and customs offences. U.S. prosecutors alleged that the two businessmen participated in a multi-year scheme involving the export of Guyanese gold using falsified customs declarations and reused government export seals, allegedly resulting in the evasion of more than US$50 million in taxes and royalties.
Senior Superintendent of Police Prem Narine
Chief Magistrate Judy Latchman
The indictment also concerns a Lamborghini vehicle, with prosecutors alleging that Azruddin caused the vehicle to be shipped from Miami to Guyana and used a false invoice that understated its purchase price, resulting in more than US$1 million in allegedly avoided Guyanese taxes. The Mohameds have denied the allegations. The two men were arrested on October 31, 2025, and each was granted $150,000 bail, with conditions requiring them to
surrender their passports and report to the Ruimveldt Police Station. The committal proceedings commenced on January 6, 2026, but have been repeatedly interrupted by the various legal challenges filed by the defence. The Mohameds were sanctioned by the U.S. Department of the Treasury in 2024 over allegations of corruption and a gold-smuggling scheme and were subsequently indicted by U.S. prosecutors on related charges.
Azruddin and Nazar Mohamed pictured with their attorneys, Siand Dhurjon and Damien Da Silva
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 22, 2026
GPF Academy launches Junior Officers’ Course with regional focus
T H E Guyana Police Force (GPF) Academy on Monday commenced its Junior Officers’ Course No. 2/2026, bringing together law-enforcement and public-service officers from Guyana and several Caribbean countries for specialised training in leadership, ethics and modern policing. The opening ceremony was held at the Police Officers’ Mess Annexe and was attended by Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond, Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken, heads of the Joint Services, and senior and junior ranks of the GPF. The course comprises 14 officers from the GPF,
along with representatives of the Guyana Defence Force, Guyana Prison Service, City Constabulary and Guyana Revenue Authority. Regional participants include officers from The Bahamas, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, the Turks and Caicos Islands and Jamaica. In his address, Commissioner Hicken described the Junior Officers’ Course as one of the Force’s premier leadership development programmes, particularly as participants prepare to assume greater supervisory responsibilities within their respective organisations. He said the current programme is the third Junior
Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond (seated centre) flanked by Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken, Deputy Commissioner ‘Administration’, Ravindradat Budhram; heads of the Joint Services, Director of Public Prosecutions, Shalimar Ali Hack and senior and junior ranks of the GPF Officers’ Course conducted tation marked an important analyse situations, work requires collaboration with since the GPF Academy step in the professionalisa- collaboratively and make agencies and members of attained national accredi- tion of police education and sound decisions. the public to address issues tation in 2023 and interna- reflected the Force’s efforts He also highlighted the that cannot be effectively tional accreditation in 2024. to ensure its training pro- regional and multi-agency managed by law-enforceHicken said the accredi- grammes meet recognised composition of the course, ment organisations acting standards and respond to saying the diversity pro- alone. the changing demands of vides an opportunity for Hicken described the policing. participants to exchange course as more than a trainH e l i n k e d t h e p r o - experiences and examine ing exercise, characterising gramme to the “Devel- how different organisations it as an investment in the oping Our People” pillar and countries respond to future leadership of the of the GPF Strategic Plan common law-enforcement GPF. 2022–2026, noting that the challenges. He said participants, as Force continues to invest in The Commissioner en- future supervisors, would strengthening its human-re- couraged the officers to be expected to uphold prosource capabilities. build professional rela- fessional standards, lead The Commissioner said tionships during the pro- by example and translate the Junior Officers’ Course gramme, noting that many organisational policies into was redesigned in 2023 contemporary policing practical action. to place greater empha- challenges extend beyond The Commissioner also sis on leadership, ethics, the boundaries of individual outlined plans to expand critical thinking, account- agencies and countries. specialised training in areas ability, technology and eviHe further stressed the including artificial intellidence-based decision-mak- importance of partnerships gence, cybersecurity, inteling. between law-enforcement ligence analysis, digital foO v e r t h e c o m i n g agencies, the public and rensics and data analytics. months, participants will other stakeholders. Those areas, he said, undergo theoretical and “Effective policing re- form part of the Force’s practical instruction, to- quires us to work with the broader objective of ingether with interactive public, other agencies, and creasing its professional, classroom exercises cov- key stakeholders,” Hick- technical, leadership and ering leadership and team en said, emphasising that specialist training capacity management, communica- emerging leaders must under- by 80 per cent by 2031. tion, critical thinking, ethi- stand how such relationships Hicken urged the parcal conduct, organisational can help address community ticipants to make full use policies and technology. problems, improve service of the training opportuHicken told the par- delivery and strengthen pub- nity and to develop the ticipants that they would lic confidence. competence, adaptability, be expected not merely to The focus on commu- integrity and professionabsorb information, but nity engagement comes alism required of modern to apply their knowledge, as policing increasingly law-enforcement leaders.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Mackenzie High rehabilitation works completed after two-week intervention
R E H A B I L I TAT I O N works at the Mackenzie High School in Linden, Region Ten, have been completed following a two-week intervention by the Ministry of Education aimed at improving the learning environment for hundreds of students. The works, which included roof and ceiling replacement, electrical upgrades, repainting and the installation of classroom fans, were completed after Minister of Education Sonia Parag conducted an on-site inspection
of the school and engaged contractors on the outstanding repairs. The intervention formed part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to improve school infrastructure and ensure that educational facilities are safe, functional and conducive to learning. A key area addressed was the Linden Concert Hall and School (LCHAS), which accommodates approximately 300 Grade Seven and Eight students. According to the Ministry, the rehabilitation in-
cluded replacement of the roof and ceiling, electrical improvements and repainting of the walls. Fans were also installed in classrooms to improve ventilation and reduce heat for students and teachers. The works were completed within the two-week period set by Minister Parag following her inspection of the facilities. Headmistress Shellanne Craigwell welcomed the completed works, saying the school community was satisfied with the improve-
The rehabilitated classrooms at Mackenzie High in Linden
ments and that students were ready to resume learning in a cleaner and more comfortable environment. President of the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), Abdullah Hamid, also commended the Ministry for responding to the concerns identified during the Minister’s visit. He said the on-site assessment allowed the Min-
istry to recognise the need for immediate upgrades and follow through on its commitment to address the deficiencies. “I must commend them for that. They stick to their word and today we can see the children back at LCHAS, and they’re in a better and more comfortable environment,” Hamid said. Students also expressed
satisfaction with the rehabilitation, particularly the improved cleanliness of the facility and the installation of fans in classrooms. The Ministry said the improvements are intended to provide students and teachers with a more suitable physical environment as it continues to address infrastructure needs across the education system.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, September 22, 2026
President Ali extends condolences to Al Maktoum family
PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali has extended condolences to the Al Maktoum family following the death of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. In a message to the bereaved family, President Ali conveyed, on behalf of the Government and people of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, as well as in his own name, his “deepest condolences” to the family. “At this time of profound sorrow, our thoughts and prayers are with Your Highness and the bereaved family,” President Ali stated. He also prayed for Sheikh Ahmed’s eternal peace and asked that strength and solace be granted to the deceased’s family during their period of mourning. “May Allah grant Sheikh Ahmed eternal peace and His Highness Sheikh grant Your Highness and Ahmed bin your family strength and Rashid Al Maktoum solace,” the President said. President Ali gave assurances of his deepest sympathy and highest consideration to the bereaved family. Dubai was struck by grief on Monday morning after the passing of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at the age of 76.
Three farmers dead after fatal confrontation at Aranka
THREE farmers, including a husband and wife, were killed in an apparent confrontation at Aranka Village, Baramita, North West District, on Saturday, with police investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Dead are Joy John, 40; her husband, Amar Thomas, 38; and Tony Williams, 62. The incident occurred at about 9:30 a.m. on September 19 at a camp where John and Thomas lived with their five-year-old son. According to preliminary police investigations, Williams, who lived at another camp approximately 20 miles away, went to the couple’s camp where an argument allegedly developed between him and John. Police said Williams allegedly struck John to the neck with a cutlass during the confrontation. Thomas, who was reportedly returning from his farm at the time, subsequently confronted Williams, resulting in an altercation between the two men. During the confrontation, both men allegedly sustained injuries from sharp objects. John was later found motionless at the camp, while Thomas was found approximately 50 feet away. Williams was located about 100 feet from the camp along a track. Police ranks visited the area on Sunday and examined the bodies. John was observed with a wound to her neck, while Thomas had what appeared to be a stab wound to the left groin area. Williams was found with a stab wound to the left side of his chest. The three bodies were taken to the Baramita Cottage Hospital, where a doctor pronounced them dead on arrival. They were subsequently placed in the hospital mortuary pending post-mortem examinations. Police have not disclosed whether any arrests have been made as investigations continue into the circumstances that led to the fatal confrontation. The investigation is ongoing.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, September 22, 2026
The New Doctor’s Clinic joins... (From page 23) tions for the competition and the arrival of visiting teams. CWIMA thanks the clinic’s management and staff for supporting international masters cricket and taking part in the effort to stage the World Cup in Guyana. The tournament gives cricketers aged 40 and over a platform to continue
competing internationally. Their participation reflects the lasting place of sport in their lives and gives supporters the opportunity to enjoy experienced players representing their teams. For Guyana’s cricket community, the World Cup will bring international competition to local grounds and create opportunities for
residents and visiting supporters to come together around the game. CWIMA welcomes The New Doctor’s Clinic to the tournament’s sponsors and appreciates its contribution to an event that celebrates continued participation in cricket. Business enquiries: +592 231 0430 or +592 629 2969.
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(Tuesday September 22, 2026) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Andre Fletcher-7 (Patriots) (2) Chris Green-11 catches (BT) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who is the CPL 2026 champion? (2) Who was declared Man -of- the-Tournament? Answers in tomorrow’s issue
Sioux 15:30 hrs Cliff Danger ENGLISH RACING TIPS BEVERLEY 08:30 hrs Snooker Mccrew 09:05 hrs Arthurian 09:40 hrs Call Me Tomorrow 10:15 hrs JM Jungle 10:50 hrs Battenburgh Belle 11:25 hrs Misunderstood 12:00 hrs Tattie Bogle 12:35 hrs Buckland Belle FONTWELL 09:12 hrs Goodwin Face 09:47 hrs Jet Smart 10:22 hrs Causing Problems 10:57 hrs Starshine Legrnd 11:32 hrs Flashy Boy 11:20 hrs Flight Tracker 11:55 hrs Londoner 12:30 hrs Hot And Cold 13:00 hrs Connie Sachs 13:30 hrs Afraj 14:00 hrs My.Mate Mackley 14:30 hrs Last Flight 15:00 hrs Courageous
SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS VAAL 08:00 hrs Giddy Up Grace 08:35 hrs Clairwood Breeze 09:10 hrs Deepone 09:45 hrs Boundless Love 10:20 hrs The Last Duke 10:55 hrs Me And You IRISH RACING TIPS LISTOWEL 08:47 hrs Churchill Bond 09:22 hrs Dhe's On The Ball 09:57 hrs Dhe's Too Kool 10:32 hrs Meriden 11:07 hrs Oklahoma 11:41 hrs Galileo Noir FINGER LAKES Race 1 My Bestie Race 2 Batant Race 3 Widest Dreams Race 4 Four Top Race 5 Fairweatherlover Race 6 Gitole Race 7 Artillery Gunnar Race 8 Mizry Fog
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BCB / KSM Investment 50-Overs First Division Tournament
nderson and unrelated A Sinclairs lead Rose Hall Town Namilco Thunderbolt Flour into semifinals
Kevin Sinclair
Kevlon Anderson
Junior Sinclair
TEST players Kevlon Anderson, Kevin Sinclair teamed up with National all-rounder, Junior Sinclair to spearhead Rose Hall Town Namilco Thunderbolt Flour to an empathic 183run victory over the Berbice Police team in the Berbice Cricket Board / KSM Investment Inc 50-overs tournament to take them into semi-finals. P laying at the Area H ground in hot conditions, the home team elected to bat and lost Kevin Sinclair (6), off the bowling of off- spinner Rocky Hutson in the first over with the score at 7. Junior Sinclair and national U-16 player Leon Reddy then added 103 for the second wicket in sixteen overs before Reddy was run out for a well-played 35 with
five fours. Sinclair fell for 69 with two sixes and five fours to leave the hosts on 127-3 in the 20th over. Anderson contributed a classy 74 with four fours and three sixes and was supported by former Guyana player Eon Hooper, who scored an even fifty with one six and five fours as the pair added 60 for the eighth wicket. National youth player Raffel McKenzie contributed 22 as Rose Hall Town Namilco Thunderbolt Flour ended on 304 all out in fifty overs. Hutson (3-61) got support from left arm spinner Joel Seitaram (2-46) for the Cops. N eeding to score 305 runs to secure their first ever first division victory over Rose Hall Town, the visitors were given a good opening stand of 53 in eight overs from
Vishal Williams and Aldy Grant. Fourteen-year-old left arm spinner Jayden Grant broke the stand when he trapped Aldy Grant LBW for 23. Off-spinner Kevin Sinclair then dismissed Ravindra Beharry for a duck as the Lawmen slipped to 55 for 2. They never recovered as Kevin Sinclair spun webs around the remaining batters; dismissing Williams (33), Simeon Gaffoor (6), Philserg Wilburg (38), Leroy Williams (3) and Paul James (2) to bowl out Police for 121 in 25.3 overs. Off-spinner Sinclair ended with 6-31 from 9 overs and received support from fellow off spinner Junior Sinclair with 3-15 in 3.3 overs.
Mottley: Hosting CPL final a... (From back page) has faced over the past decade, Mottley reaffirmed that cricket remains a non-negotiable priority for her government. “Clearly, the last decade or two has not been easy for
the country. But despite that, we still found time to prioritise because we understand what cricket means to Bajans and to Caribbean people,” she concluded. The Prime Minister’s
comments serve as a rallying cry for other Caribbean nations to follow suit, ensuring that the sport continues to thrive through strategic government investment and regional co-operation.
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Jack Edwards added to Australia’s squad for South Africa ODIs FAST bowler Jack Edwards is in line to make his ODI debut after being added to Australia’s squad for the three-match series against South Africa. The all-rounder is currently travelling from Puducherry in India, where he was preparing for Australia A’s four-day game against India A, to Durban ahead of Thursday’s opening ODI. Fast bowler Billy Stanlake has been ruled out of the series after suffering a side strain during the second ODI against Zimbabwe. Stanlake pulled up midway through his fifth over and will undergo scans after returning to Australia. Spencer Johnson, meanwhile, has been released from the squad despite featuring in two of the three ODIs against Zimbabwe. The left-arm quick is not injured but has been deemed surplus to requirements for the South Africa series. He will join the Australia A
Aussie all-rounder Jack Edwards
squad for their three 50-over games in Puducherry next month. Johnson returned to ODI cricket after an 18-month gap and played a key role in Australia’s thrilling win over Zimbabwe on Sunday, taking two wickets and contributing to a 27-run last-wicket stand. Australia will have Pat
Cummins and Mitchell Starc join the squad in Durban, with Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood and Xavier Bartlett providing the other pace options. The ODIs will be played on September 24, 27 and 30 in Durban, Johannesburg and Potchefstroom respectively. (Cricbuzz)
CSK name Zaheer Khan as head coach for IPL 2027 CHENNAI Super Kings (CSK) have announced former India left-arm pacer, Zaheer Khan, as their head coach for IPL 2027. Zaheer replaces Stephen Fleming, who ended his 18-year association with the franchise, primarily at the helm of their coaching staff, before taking up a role with England cricket. In July, he was named their men’s Test head coach. Zaheer has worked at different positions since retiring from IPL in 2017. After playing for three teams (RCB, MI and DC), he was appointed MI’s Director of Cricket Operations ahead of IPL 2019, before becoming their head of global development. More recently, he was named Lucknow Super Giants’ mentor for IPL 2025, but exited the franchise ahead of the subsequent season. As a player, Zaheer featured in 100 IPL matches, taking 102 wickets at 27.27, adding to his illustrious India career, where he picked 610 wickets across
Zaheer Khan replaces Stephen Fleming
formats. Speaking on his appointment, Zaheer was quoted as saying by CSK: “It’s an honour to be a part of one of the most successful teams in the history of the IPL. As a cricketer, I have faced CSK on the field and have thoroughly enjoyed the contests. The atmosphere created by the Superfans at Chepauk make it even more special. I can’t wait to join the legacy franchise with such a rich history.” Rupa Gurunath, owner of the team, welcomed Zaheer into the setup: “We are pleased to confirm Zaheer Khan as the Head Coach for Chennai Super Kings.
Zaheer’s distinguished playing career and proven ability to nurture young talent make him a valuable addition to our setup. We are confident that his guidance will help strengthen the core of this franchise.” CSK Managing Director, KS Viswanathan, added: “Zaheer is a world-class bowler and has been a mentor to many young cricketers, especially fast bowlers, over the years. As a player, Zaheer was one of the key reasons for India’s success in the 2000s. He’s one of the finest cricketing brains and we look forward to having him in our family.” (Cricbuzz)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Ngetich breaks women-only half-marathon record AGNES Ngetich broke the world record for a women-only half marathon as she took gold at the World Road Running Championships in Copenhagen. The Kenyan claimed victory in one hour, five minutes and 15 seconds as she took a second off the previous record, which her compatriot Peres Jepchirchir set in winning the World half marathon gold in 2020. Ethiopia’s Letesenbet Gidey holds the overall women’s half-marathon world record with a time of 1:02:52. “My coach believed in me and told me that I could do it, that I could win the gold medal,” said Ngetich, 25. “So, I am very happy and very grateful to now hold the world half marathon record, too.” In April 2025, Ngetich set a new 10km world record when she clocked 29:27 to
Agnes Ngetich has set her sights on winning gold on the track at the 2027 World Athletics Championships
become the first woman to run the distance in under 30 minutes in a women-only race. She also broke the 10km world record in Valencia in 2024, becoming the first woman to run the distance in under 29 minutes when she won a mixed road race in 28:46. Ngetich added: “I am now going to discuss with my coach what is ahead of
me. But I know I am coming back to track races in 2027, because there is a World Athletics Championships. “It is my dream to win a gold medal on the track. It is the only one I am missing.” Sweden’s Andreas Almgren won the men’s half marathon as he broke his own European record by 35 seconds, crossing the line in 58:06 in Copenhagen. (BBC Sport)
Moqim’s historic haul carries... (From back page) Shadab Khan trapped Romaine Morris lbw for a duck in the next over, and when Moqim had Hassan Khan caught at longoff for one and Keemo Paul stumped for three, the Kingsmen had collapsed to 127 for seven in the 15th over. Sadaqat then singlehandedly dragged his side to a competitive total with a series of exhilarating shots to all parts of the ground. He reached his second century of the playoffs off 49 balls by thumping pacer Joshua James for two sixes in the 17th over, followed up by a single to deep cover. Sadaqat was eventually dismissed off the penultimate ball of the innings, with Springer having him caught at long-off for 114 off 58 balls, inclusive of nine sixes and eight fours.
Moqim finished with 4-14, while Joseph claimed 2-27. Chasing a competitive total, the Falcons were given a magnificent start by Cornwall, who clubbed Ayub for two sixes and two fours in the very first over before being bowled off the last ball. Evin Lewis drove Andre Russell for two fours in the ensuing over and also hit Ayub to the boundary ropes in the following over to reach 3000 CPL runs and carry the score to 30 for one after three overs. Jangoo got in on the act by striking Hunain Shah for two fours and a six in the ensuing over to take the Falcons past the 50-run mark. The Kingsmen thought they had Lewis when he miscued a pull and was caught at long on, but the
replay showed Russell had overstepped the crease. Lewis responded by hitting the ensuing free hit for four and clobbering Ayub for two more sixes and a four in the sixth over that leaked 17 runs and carried the Falcons to 76 for one after the power play. Wrist-spinner Vitel Lawes did get the breakthrough by bowling Lewis off the inside edge for 38 off 26 balls, to make the score 84 for two in the eighth over. However, Jangoo, who scored an unbeaten 57 off 34 balls with four fours and three sixes, and Nawaz, who struck three sixes and three fours in his unbeaten knock, shared an unbroken partnership of 89 in nine overs to end the contest with an incredible 20 balls to spare.
Lancashire director of cricket Chilton to leave LANCASHIRE Director of Cricket Performance Mark Chilton will be leaving the club after more than two decades with the county. David Thorley, Director of Women’s Cricket, is also leaving as the Red Rose county restructures behind the scenes. Chilton, a former Lancashire captain, had been in his current role since 2021 and part of the coaching staff from 2014. Lancashire are set for their lowest ever finish in the County Championship following a poor 2026 campaign. With one match of the season remaining, they are seventh in Division Two and could finish bottom if results go against them. Thorley held his post since 2020 which included the switch from a regional to a county set-up in the women’s game and during his tenure, Lancashire won both
Mark Chilton played almost 200 first-class games for Lancashire
the One-Day Cup and T20 County Cup in 2025. But this season, they finished bottom of the T20 Blast table and failed to qualify for the knockout stages of the One-Day Cup. “We all share the ambition of seeing our Lancashire teams win games, progress in competitions and compete for trophies,” Chief Executive Daniel Gidney told the club’s website. “For the men’s side, the County Championship is at the heart of the club’s
cricketing vision, while for Lancashire Women, our aim is to consistently challenge for major honours. “I would like to express my thanks to Mark for his long association with the Red Rose and to David for leading the women’s side through such a transformational period. Their contribution and commitment to Lancashire Cricket over the years is very much appreciated, and we wish them both well for the future.” (BBC Sport)
Jonathan Trott appointed head coach of England Lions JONATHAN Trott has been appointed as England Lions head coach for the upcoming winter schedule, the ECB announced on Monday. At the end of their T20 WorldCup 2026 campaign, Trott stepped down from his position as the Afghanistan head coach. During his four-year tenure from 2022, the former England batter led Afghanistan to a historic first-ever Men’s T20 World Cup semi-final appearance in 2024. Previously, Trott was an assistant coach with the England men’s team during the COVID-19 pandemic and last week stood in as England Lions’ head coach in their 2-0 T20 series win against Sri Lanka. the 45-year-old will now take permanent charge of the Lions for a busy winter schedule that includes tours of the Caribbean, South Africa and Sri Lanka. “Jonathan Trott is an outstanding coach who has a proven record in international cricket,” ECB Men’s Performance Director, Ed Barney, said. “We are delighted that he has agreed to lead our Lions programme during a busy
Jonathan Trott was previously an assistant coach with the England men’s team
winter. “This winter’s Lions schedule has a 50-over focus across three tours as we look to prepare the next-in-line players for one-day international cricket. Alongside this, we have some key red-ball fixtures which will continue to provide opportunities to excel on the world stage whilst develop a broad skill set. “Jonathan’s coaching expertise, and as a former England player who knows the value of the Lions programme having come through it himself, will be invaluable for those players as they look to progress their careers.” Trott, a three-time Ashes winner, appeared in 52
Tests and made 75 whiteball appearances for England. “I’m delighted to be back working in the England set-up and hugely excited to take on the role of Head Coach of the England Lions,” Trott said. “Having played for the Lions myself, I know how valuable the experience can be in helping players develop, both on and off the field, and it played an important part in my own journey. “I’m really looking forward to working with the players and staff, helping them fulfil their potential and preparing them for the demands of international cricket.” (Cricbuzz)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Infantino says Fifa can change as he proposes review FIFA president Gianni Infantino has proposed an external review of how world football’s governing body operates, and says he is open to reform. In a letter sent to members of the Fifa Council and all of its national associations, Infantino said the independent process would “recommend potential improvements”. Before a meeting of the Council next month, Infantino says he is also suggesting a consultation on “how Fifa’s decision-making can be further strengthened”. This would include proposals on the role of the president, as well as “practical ways to strengthen transparency, participation and accountability in major strategic initiatives”. Infantino has come under increasing pressure over his aborted Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE) proposal.
That would have involved selling stakes in the World Cup and other competitions to private investors, and it sparked a major backlash. In what appears to be a conciliatory gesture, Infantino writes: “Over recent weeks, I have taken time to listen before writing to you”, and says the consultation will be with confederations, member associations and “relevant stakeholders”. He insists that the FFE plan “did not involve relinquishing Fifa’s control or authority over sporting decisions. Obviously!” His letter adds: “The proposal entered the public domain before Fifa’s planned institutional process had been completed and before it could be presented in full to the Council and the member associations. I recognise that, without the full context, this caused concern and
Gianni Infantino was first elected as Fifa president in 2016
created the impression that decisions had already been taken. They had not.” Infantino also claims that “democratic processes, independence and sporting authority were never for sale. They are not for sale and never will be”. He states he remains “fully committed to leading
Fifa and confident in what we can achieve together”. Infantino’s letter comes after Uefa and Concacaf - the confederations for Europe and North America, Central America and the Caribbean - demanded Fifa pays $10m to all 211 members from its cash reserves. FFE would have meant
a new company being created to manage commercial and ticketing rights of all Fifa competitions, including World Cups, with 21% sold off to a private investment company. Infantino claims that the collapse of FFE “does not diminish our ambition or our responsibility to invest more of Fifa’s success back into football. “We will continue to explore sustainable ways to grow Fifa’s resources and expand development and solidarity support for every member association. What changes is not the ambition, but the strength of the process through which major ideas are developed, tested and decided. “The progress we have made over the past decade gives us a strong foundation for the future. It also gives us the confidence to examine whether our governance
remains suited to the scale and complexity of the decisions ahead.” Earlier this month, Football Association chair Debbie Hewitt, a Fifa vice-president, told Infantino to release all documents relating to his controversial plan. The 56-year-old Swiss-Italian Fifa leader will stand for election for a fourth time in March 2027, with his opponents having until 18 November to find an alternative candidate. Last month, European football’s governing body Uefa began preparing criminal legal proceedings against Infantino at courts in the US over the FFE plan, demanding the release of all documents. Fifa hit back and accused Uefa of a “smear campaign against it and its leadership” in a challenge to the litigation. (BBC Sport)
Fleming puts England identity at heart of Atletico hit back at Mourinho over referee complaints Test cricket rebuild ENGLAND’S new Test coach, Stephen Fleming, said restoring the team’s identity and standards would be as important as improving results, after a turbulent year for English cricket that brought renewed scrutiny of player behaviour and team culture. Fleming was appointed in July following England’s slide in results and a series of off-field incidents that led to Brendon McCullum’s departure from the test role, amid accusations of a drinking culture amongst the players. The latest incident involved pace bowler Brydon Carse, who was handcuffed outside a nightclub following Durham’s County Championship title-winning victory over Derbyshire, shortly after Joe Root had lifted a team midnight curfew. “I would love to be in charge of the number one Test team in the world. That would be my aspiration,” Fleming told reporters in Manchester. “But there’s a piece of work there that’s already begun and that’s around our identity. There’s been a lot of coverage around that and I think the way that players represent England and the
Former New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming
group going to be really important to me. “The style of play will come with that also and that’ll be a little bit more player-directed, but I feel very strongly about finding a sense of belonging within the group.” Fleming said steps had already been taken behind the scenes, although he did not provide further details. “We’ve done some things to start that piece of work, so that’s really important to me,” Fleming said. “So not only will we be
in the best position to win cricket games but also represent the England cricket team in its best form.” Marcus Trescothick guided England to a 3-0 sweep of Pakistan as interim coach in August and September, before handing over to Fleming for December and January’s three-test tour of South Africa. McCullum remains coach of England’s white-ball sides. England begins a threematch one-day international series against Sri Lanka today. (Reuters)
ATLETICO Madrid have hit back at Jose Mourinho after the Real Madrid boss arrived at his post-derby news conference on Sunday carrying printouts of screenshots displaying two incidents he believed should have resulted in red cards for Atletico. Mourinho accused the officials of making key errors after Real were beaten 2-1 by Atletico, claiming the hosts should have been handed two red cards in the first half. On Monday, Atletico posted twice on their X account, the first being a video showing a sheet of paper coming out of a printer with the words #StopAcosoArbitralYA, meaning “stop referee harassment now”. A second post showed a picture of Mourinho at the news conference with the same message. The response from Atletico, whose team are coached by Diego Simeone, received two million views on X within two hours of it being posted. Atletico often use their social media accounts to respond to rivals, repeatedly posting on X this summer to ridicule Barcelona over their pursuit of Atletico’s talisman Julian Alvarez. Alongside Mourinho’s post‑match claims, the match report published on Real’s
Jose Mourinho arrived at his news conference with screenshots of incidents he believed should have resulted in red cards for Atletico
website said that the derby loss was decided because of “dreadful refereeing”, external by Ortiz Arias. Mourinho’s side had defender Dean Huijsen sent off early in the second half, when the game was goalless, for pulling down Atletico’s Giuliano Simeone just inside the penalty area. The match outcome was Real’s second defeat of the season, having lost 1-0 to Real Betis earlier in September. “We can skip the press conference because the story of the match is right here,” Mourinho said as he showed media the printed images on sheets of A4 paper on Sunday. “Those were two clear red cards. Given the difficulties we faced afterwards playing 11 against 10, we can only imagine what 50 minutes of 11 against nine would have been like.
“So I’ll just have to limit myself to hugging my players, who gave it their all and played a first half, showed great class and character, setting us up perfectly to win the second half.” Simeone, when asked to respond to Mourinho’s refereeing rant, said he was always respectful of everyone else’s opinions. “I understand that we’re in a privileged position with a lot of public scrutiny, as coaches, and whether it’s Mourinho, [Barcelona manager Hansi] Flick, [Real Betis boss Manuel] Pellegrini, me, or anyone else, we need to be careful about what we say,” he said. “We have to know how to respect others, the referees, our colleagues. And when someone crosses that line of respect, it’s not right - you can’t cross that line.” (BBC Sport)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Moeen Ali and Paul Nixon praise resilient Falcons following CPL title ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) — THE Antigua and Barbuda Falcons are champions of the Caribbean Premier League for the first time, clinching the title with a commanding performance on Sunday night that captain Moeen Ali described as the culmination of a “tough but great journey.” Speaking after the victory, an elated Moeen Ali emphasised that the triumph meant more than just personal glory. Yeah, very special. I think more for the franchise, more for the players, coaching staff, and everybody that was involved,” Moeen said. “It’s been a tough journey, but a great journey. Time has gone quickly for us because we’ve enjoyed each other’s company, and you can see on
the field the way we played.” The English all-rounder praised his side’s resilience throughout the campaign, highlighting the final performance as the pinnacle of their efforts. “I thought tonight was an outstanding performance again, and I’m really pleased with the way we performed throughout the competition. It was a decent fight in the end. I mean, the dew made a big difference, but it was a great toss to win.” Moeen, who joined the squad midway through the season, revealed that the turning point came during an early stint in Saint Lucia, where he saw the potential in the group despite a narrow loss. “Honestly, in that game I played in Saint Lucia, we were only defending 57 off
10 overs, and we almost won. From there, I saw fight and great determination from the guys, and I thought at least there’s something great to work with,” he recalled. The captain admitted that balancing the team’s composition was a tactical challenge, especially with injuries forcing changes to the lineup. However, he credited the depth of the squad, specifically naming Rahkeem Cornwall and Fabian Allen, for stepping up when it mattered most. “Having two wrist-spinners, two pace guys up top, and then two death bowlers, it’s not always easy to combine. But I think the biggest difference was the players who came in and out for a couple of injuries. Guys like Rahkeem Cornwall and Fabian Allen coming in and out.
IMC Over-40s Cricket World Cup Guyana 2026
Antigua and Barbuda Falcons skipper, Moeen Ali, holds aloft the CPL trophy
It wasn’t easy, but they made a huge difference. Quality players who always give everything.”
Head Coach Paul Nixon echoed his captain’s sentiments, lauding the commitment of the squad and the
“world-class” support staff. “The guys have been immense all year. We’ve been so committed, so clear. Moeen has been an exceptional captain,” Nixon said. “Everybody’s had an impact in the team and the dressing room, and it’s been amazing. The backroom staff’s analysis has been world-class.” Nixon made special mention of wicketkeeper-batter Amir Jangoo, who played a pivotal role in the final, describing the win as a humbling experience. “Amir Jangoo had a great competition and saw it through in style. So proud, so humbled, lovely. Amazing people; surround yourself with quality,” Nixon added, dedicating the win to the Antiguan faithful who backed the team throughout the season.
JFF lauds local club’s Caribbean Cup run
The New Doctor’s Clinic joins World Cup as Bronze Sponsor
It is the first time since 2023 that two local clubs have reached the final four of the competition
Photo shows Raj Singh congratulating Satyendra Khemraj aka Samba, owner of the New Doctors clinic in the presence of Paul Archer, World Cup transportation coordinator
THE Cricket West Indies Masters Association (CWIMA) welcomes The New Doctor’s Clinic as a Bronze Sponsor of the IMC Over-40s Cricket World Cup Guyana 2026. The clinic joins the
growing list of businesses supporting Guyana’s hosting of the tournament, which will bring together 16 teams for 72 matches from October 17, 2026 to October 31, 2026. The West Indies will compete
on home soil, with the Cup Final scheduled for the Guyana National Stadium at Providence. The New Doctor’s Clinic’s sponsorship contributes to CWIMA’s prepara(Turn to page 19)
KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC )— The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) has extended its congratulations to Portmore United and Mount Pleasant Academy following their qualification for the semi-finals of the 2026 CONCACAF Caribbean Cup. This marks a significant milestone for Jamaican football, as it is the first time since 2023 that two local clubs have reached the final four of the competition. On that previous occasion, Harbour View and Cavalier represented the island in the semi-finals. Beyond the immediate
success, the presence of two Jamaican clubs in the penultimate round guarantees that at least one Jamaican side will qualify for the 2027 CONCACAF Champions Cup, as the top three teams from this tournament earn berths in next year’s edition. JFF President Michael Ricketts expressed his pride in the clubs’ achievements and offered his best wishes for the upcoming matches. “I would like to send my congratulations to both Portmore United and Mount Pleasant Academy for qualifying for the last four of the Caribbean Cup,” said Ricketts.
“They have represented Jamaica proudly, and I am delighted that each year Jamaican clubs are making a big impression in this competition. I wish them all the best in the semi-finals, and hopefully we can have two Jamaican clubs in the final.” The semi-final draw presents a challenging path for both teams. Portmore United are set to face Haitian outfit Violette, while Mount Pleasant Academy will square off against Trinidad and Tobago’s Club Sando F.C. The semi-final ties are scheduled to take place next month.
The Antigua & Barbuda Falcons celebrate their capture of the Caribbean Premier League title after defeating the Jamaica Kingsmen
Moqim’s historic haul carries Falcons to maiden CPL title
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, (CMC) – Left-arm spinner Sufyan Moqim delivered a spell for the ages as the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons cap tured their first-ever Caribbean Premier League title with a commanding eight-wicket win over the Jamaica Kingsmen in a riveting final at Kensington Oval on Sunday night. Maaz Sadaqat became the first man to score a
century in a CPL final, but his superb knock was overshadowed by Moqim, who delivered the best bowling figures in a final to restrict the Kingsmen to 170 for nine in 20 overs after they were sent in to bat. Before a massive crowd that included Antigua & Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne, the Falcons soared to 173 for two in just 16.4 overs on the back of an unbeaten half
century from Amir Jangoo and Hasan Nawaz’s 47 not out off 35 balls, to give the three-year old franchise its maiden title. On a night that featured spectacular performances from Sadaqat and Moqim, the latter’s four wicket haul proved to be more decisive. The Kingsmen lost Kirk McKenzie in the first over for a duck, with the lefthander edging a rising delivery from pacer Jayden
Seales to first slip where Rahkeem Cornwall held on to the catch. Keacy Carty struck fast bowler Alzarri Joseph over point for a boundary to start the fourth over, but three balls later he drove a delivery to cover for Shadab Khan to take a sharp catch leaping at full stretch to make the score 30 for two. But opener Sadaqat and Saim Ayub put their side in the ascendancy during
an 80-run partnership in 46 balls that left them in prime position to post a score in excess of 200 runs, having reached 110 for two after 11 overs. During that stand, Sadaqat – who scored a century in the Kingsmen’s win over the Barbados Tridents in the Eliminator on Wednesday – brought up his half century in 27 balls by collecting two runs with an edge to third man off
Cornwall. However, Moqim turned the match on its heels by having Ayub caught at midon for 29 after he mistimed his slog sweep, and he also dismissed captain Rovman Powell for a three-ball duck in the same over, with the batter chipping a delivery straight into the hands of Shamar Springer at backward point to reduce the Kingsmen to 110 for four. (Turn to page 21)
Mottley: Hosting CPL final a triumph, Barbados ready for more BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, (CMC) – FOLLOWING the conclusion of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) final at the iconic Kensington Oval, Barbados Prime Minister, Mia Mottley, has declared the hosting of the event a resounding success, signalling her government’s intent to bid for future finals while calling for a unified regional investment in the sport. Speaking to the media after the match, Mottley expressed immense pride in Barbados’ ability to stage the marquee event, stating that the island is eager to remain a central hub for Caribbean cricket. “We’re not greedy, but we’re going to be in the mix, even if not next year, in the
near future,” Mottley said regarding the hosting rights. “So I know that other countries have been speaking, and we will work with them. But as I said, this is something that unites the region, and once we get the ability for people to travel and move easily, then I think you’re going to see a lot more Caribbean people moving for CPL cricket.” The Prime Minister emphasised that the success of the tournament relies heavily on tangible support rather than hope. She outlined her administration’s commitment to grassroots and high-performance development, revealing that funding for a new high-performance centre is currently in motion.
Barbados Prime Minister, Mia Mottley, greets Antigua & Barbuda Falcons player, Shamar Springer, ahead of the CPL final at Kensington
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“You have to invest. You cannot stand by and just see things and hope, by serendipity, that things will happen,” she asserted. “I’m happy that the money that we’re putting into the high-performance centre, we’re moving on that now.” Mottley highlighted the broader significance of sports in shaping the region’s youth, describing Caribbean athletes and artistes as “global citizens” with deep local roots. “I really, really want, as I said, to be able to make the investment in our young people because, as we’ve always said, global citizens, Bajan roots, global citizens, Caribbean roots,” she stated. Acknowledging the economic challenges the region (Turn to page 21)
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2026