Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 24-09-2026

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No.1081917

President Ali meets US congressional delegation at UN General Assembly 03 PAGE

‘Partnership is a great equaliser’ ––– President Ali tells Clinton Global Initiative that partnerships give developing countries better access to technology, finance and human capital 03 PAGE

President, Dr Irfaan Ali met with a US Congressional delegation led by Representative Gregory Meeks on the margins of the 81st United Nations General Assembly. Their discussions focused on Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, particularly in relation to the upcoming ICJ ruling; the continued expansion and diversification of our economy beyond oil and gas and developments surrounding the Global Biodiversity Alliance. The delegation, which also included Representatives Pramila Jayapal and Jonathan Jackson, reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the partnership between Guyana and the US House Foreign Affairs Committee, as well as other relevant committees and caucuses, including the Congressional Black Caucus (OP Photos)

President Ali calls for 11 multi-sectoral approach to pandemic preparedness PAGE

Guyana hosts 27th INTERPOL Americas conference amid growing transnational crime threats 04 PAGE

–– PM Phillips urges timely intelligence sharing in fight against organised crime

US visa reviews done at US$7.8M IOM programme backed the level of Washington by Guyana’s strict vetting - Ambassador Theriot says in response to questions on Justice Persaud’s visa review 09 PAGE

of third-country nationals — US Ambassador says

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First Lady launches packaging, preserving training for 12 persons with disabilities PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, September 24, 2026

‘Partnership is a great equaliser’

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, September 24, 2026

–– President Ali tells Clinton Global Initiative that partnerships give developing countries better access to technology, finance and human capital

PARTNERSHIPS give developing countries better access to technology, finance and human capital to build capacity in health, education, climate security and other key services, according to Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali, who on Wednesday addressed the Clinton Global Initiative event, “Powering Scientific Breakthroughs”, at the Hilton Midtown Hotel in New York. “It gives us the quickest pathway to technology, to people, to human assets, and of course to finances,” the Head of State said. He reminded his audience that small developing countries face limited financial and human-resource capacity while navigating the same global systems as larger nations. Scientific advancement and technology were identified as critical to energy security, food security, affordable healthcare, climate and biodiversity services, equitable artificial intelli-

gence (AI) and digitisation, pandemic preparedness, infrastructure and human-capital development. “I believe that small countries do not possess the ability or the capacity to address global challenges and provide global solutions,” he stressed. However, Guyana has championed several global initiatives. He pointed to a five-year extension with the Mount Sinai Health System, which is intended to transform Guyana’s public health system by 2030 through modernised care, human-capital development, electronic health records, telemedicine, diagnostics and data-driven decision-making. Guyana has reported a long-distance robotic cardiac surgery between Guyana and India, the establishment of primary-school medical baselines, expanded secondary-school tracking, and increased training for nurses, patient-care assistants, laboratory technicians and doctors.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali He also pointed to partnerships in infrastructure, technology and local human capacity that have helped to reduce the need for medical evacuations from a remote hinterland location by almost 95 per cent in less than three years. “Guyana is indeed a small state, but we are learning that the power of

a country is not measured only by size and population. Power can also be measured by the partnership a country builds, and we believe that the best way to navigate the challenges of our world is through partnership, and that is the proposition I bring to the Clinton Initiative. Partnership is a great

equaliser of our age,” he said, adding: “For many small states, the challenge is obvious. We do not have the enormous resource budget of the larger economies. We cannot independently finance every advanced laboratory, every medical technology, every innovation, or every agricultural research programme.” Dr. Ali also highlighted the country’s energy partnerships, the 140-member Global Biodiversity Alliance, jurisdictional-scale forest certification, its carbon-credit market, and plans to expand technology-enabled food security across the Caribbean and beyond. He positioned Guyana as a potential pilot for research. “We can be the perfect sample size or pilot size for much research, but we do have something equally important: We have political will, human resources, and, most importantly, the ability to bring the right people around the same table,” he

said, adding: “The question, therefore, is not whether a small state can do everything itself. The question is: Can we build partnerships that allow us to do what we could never do alone?” Notably, through existing partnerships, Guyana intends to build capacity in health, energy, food security, climate and digitisation, which he said are perhaps the clearest examples of the benefits of collaboration. Forthcoming initiatives, he said, include a national payment platform, expanded hinterland Wi-Fi, the digitisation of government services, and the development of the My Guyana single-platform app. Additionally, Guyana is positioning itself as a food-security centre for the Caribbean and beyond through its arable land, freshwater resources, technology and partnerships, including with the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA).

President Ali meets US congressional delegation at UN General Assembly

PRESIDENT Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has held talks with a US congressional delegation on Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, economic diversification and co-operation on biodiversity during the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York. Ali met with the delegation, led by Representative Gregory Meeks, on the margins of the UN General Assembly’s High-Level Week. Meeks, the Ranking Member of the US House Foreign Affairs Committee, said following the meeting that he had reaffirmed US support for Guyana’s territorial integrity and discussed ways to deepen bilateral co-operation. According to the Guyanese delegation, discussions also addressed the importance of Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial

President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has held talks with a US congressional delegation led by Representative Gregory Meeks, on the margins of the UN General Assembly’s High-Level Week integrity in the context of the anticipated ruling by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on the Guyana-Venezuela border controversy.

The leaders also discussed Guyana’s expanding economy and efforts to diversify economic activity beyond the oil and gas sec-

tor, as well as developments concerning the Global Biodiversity Alliance. The US delegation included Representatives Pra-

mila Jayapal and Jonathan Jackson. The lawmakers committed to continuing to strengthen engagement between Guyana and the

House Foreign Affairs Committee, as well as other relevant congressional committees and caucuses, including the Congressional Black Caucus. The meeting forms part of Guyana’s diplomatic engagements during the 81st session of the General Assembly, which is being held from September 22 to 28 under the theme “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.” President Ali was accompanied by Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh; Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett; and Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud. Guyana is scheduled to deliver its national statement during the General Debate on September 24.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, September 24, 2026

Guyana hosts 27th INTERPOL Americas conference amid growing transnational crime threats

–– PM Phillips urges timely intelligence-sharing in fight against organised crime

GUYANA is hosting the 27th INTERPOL Americas Regional Conference as law-enforcement leaders from across the region examine ways to strengthen co-operation against transnational organised crime, including drug trafficking, cybercrime, money laundering, illegal firearms and the illicit trade in natural resources. Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, delivering remarks at the opening of the two-day conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on Wednesday, said approximately 50 officials from 37 countries have gathered in Georgetown to discuss threats that increasingly cross national borders. It is the first time Guyana is hosting the INTERPOL Americas Regional Conference, marking a significant point in the country’s longstanding relationship with the international police organisation. Guyana joined INTERPOL on October 1, 1968, and its National Central Bureau in Georgetown operates within the Guyana Police Force as a permanent link to the wider INTERPOL network. Phillips said Guyana’s geographical position between South America and the Caribbean makes the conference particularly rel-

evant, given the country’s land borders, Atlantic waters and connections with neighbouring states and the wider region. He noted that the same routes and systems that facilitate legitimate commerce, travel and financial activity can also be exploited by criminal organisations operating across jurisdictions. Criminal networks, he said, increasingly take advantage of differences between national laws and weaknesses at borders, with operations sometimes planned in one country and financed in another before moving through several jurisdictions. The Prime Minister identified narcotics and illegal firearms trafficking, human trafficking and smuggling, cybercrime, money laundering and illegal mining as among the activities posing challenges to countries across the Americas. He said the interconnected nature of these crimes requires a coordinated response, particularly because delays in cross-border investigations can give offenders an advantage. “Once an investigation crosses a national boundary, any delay can shift the advantage to the offender and place justice further out of reach,” Phillips said. INTERPOL’s systems

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips (centre at the front) flanked by Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond, members of the Guyana Police Force’s Executive Leadership Team and Regional and Branch Commanders are intended to help address that challenge by enabling authorised law-enforcement officers to securely exchange information and access international police records. Phillips pointed to the I-24/7 communications network, as well as INTERPOL Notices and Diffusions, as mechanisms that can help investigators identify connections between cases and persons across jurisdictions. He stressed, however, that the effectiveness of those systems depends on the accuracy and timely availability of information, as well as its lawful use. Guyana has already participated in international operations targeting cross-border criminal activity. The Prime Minister cited Operation Guyana Shield in December 2025, which brought together authorities from Brazil, French Guiana,

Guyana and Suriname in an operation targeting illegal gold mining and its links to organised crime. More than 24,500 checks were conducted during the operation, resulting in 198 arrests and the seizure of criminal assets and materials associated with illegal activities. He also referenced the February 2025 extradition of Harry Narine Rajkumar to Canada following an INTERPOL Red Notice. The extradition was the first successfully completed between Guyana and Canada. According to Phillips, the cases demonstrate the practical value of international law-enforcement cooperation while also highlighting the need to ensure that intelligence reaches the officers and agencies responsible for acting on it. He said Guyana is

strengthening its national capacity through investments in intelligence-led policing and modern investigative systems. The Prime Minister said the Guyana Police Force, Immigration Department, Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit and other competent agencies must be able to exchange information securely, understand their respective responsibilities and coordinate operations that extend beyond Guyana’s borders. He said the conference also provides an opportunity for Guyana to build professional relationships and gain access to expertise and technology needed to respond to rapidly changing forms of criminal activity. Phillips noted that closer co-operation is particularly important for Caribbean states, which often have comparatively small jurisdictions while confronting criminal networks that are well financed and capable of operating quickly across borders. He said stronger coordination could provide border officials with earlier warnings about persons or activities of concern and allow investigators to identify connections that may not be apparent within a single jurisdiction. The Prime Minister said the success of the conference would ultimately depend on whether decisions taken in Georgetown result in practical improvements in the work of law-enforcement officers. He pointed to the Americas Biennial Implementation Plan for 2026 to 2028 as a mechanism for assigning responsibilities and measuring progress.

Trust among participating countries, he added, would also be critical, particularly in ensuring that sensitive information is protected, lawfully used and handled responsibly. The conference is taking place as INTERPOL advances its Strategic Framework for 2026 to 2030, which includes strengthening the organisation’s role as a trusted global information hub and improving access to critical information for investigators, border-security officials and judicial authorities. Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken, attended the conference along with Phillips, Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond, members of the Guyana Police Force’s Executive Leadership Team, and regional and branch commanders. For Guyana, the conference represents an opportunity to strengthen relationships with law-enforcement agencies throughout the Americas while improving the mechanisms available to address crimes that affect communities regardless of national boundaries. Phillips said the real measure of the conference would come after delegates leave Guyana, when agreements and relationships established during the meetings are tested through actual investigations and operations. He said Guyana is prepared to work with INTERPOL and participating countries to ensure that offenders cannot exploit international borders to evade justice. The Prime Minister subsequently declared the 27th INTERPOL Americas Regional Conference officially open.

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42 healthcare professionals complete digital healthcare seminar

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, September 24, 2026

FORTY-TWO healthcare professionals from institutions across Guyana have completed a three-week Digital Healthcare Seminar designed to strengthen their capacity to manage emerging technologies and improve healthcare delivery. The programme, funded by the Government of the People’s Republic of China and supported by the Ministry of Health, focused on preparing healthcare workers for the growing integration of digital systems and smart technologies into Guyana’s health sector. The participants received certificates of completion on Wednesday during a closing ceremony at the Embassy of China in Georgetown. During the threeweek programme, participants were exposed to hospital management and information systems, while also examining real data and challenges encountered in their respective workplaces. The training provided an opportunity for the professionals to work with trainers to identify practical ways of improving existing systems and applying digital solutions to everyday healthcare operations. Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Yang Yang, said Guyana’s health sector was developing rapidly, with digitalisation and smart technologies play-

ing an increasingly important role in improving services and strengthening the country’s healthcare capacity. She noted, however, that digital transformation was not simply about acquiring new equipment or technology, but also required new approaches, improved processes and more effective management. “Ultimately, it depends on people. We need professionals who understand technology, know how to apply it, and are able to manage it effectively,” Ambassador Yang said. She said programmes such as the seminar were intended not only to facilitate knowledge-sharing but also to build skills and strengthen institutional capacity. The ambassador encouraged the participants to apply the knowledge gained during the programme in their workplaces and to share it with their colleagues. Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr Cerdel McWatt, highlighted the significant expansion of Guyana’s health sector over the past five years, noting that the Ministry is working towards the development of additional healthcare facilities. He said seven new facilities would contribute to further improvements in healthcare delivery and stressed the need for trained personnel capable of managing them effi-

Chinese Ambassador Yang Yang (centre) next to Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Cerdel McWatt, flanked by officials and participants of the programme ciently. “With these new facilities to come on board in time, there will be a need for skilled personnel like this batch, who will be able to manage these facilities efficiently,” Dr McWatt said. He urged the participants to view themselves not only in terms of their individual healthcare roles but also as public-sector professionals responsible for delivering services to the population. “We want to see improvement in leadership of these facilities. We want to see improvement in how we manage the

resources and of course that will foster a greater impact of us improving health and wellness, and moving towards nothing less than fostering world-class healthcare services for all,” he said. The participants were also encouraged to become resource persons within their respective institutions by sharing the knowledge acquired during the seminar. They were advised to introduce improvements gradually, addressing one aspect of their operations at a time as Guyana continues to modernise its healthcare system.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, September 24, 2026

Momentum into productivity

THE economic transformation of Guyana is becoming less a story of oil and more about how the country can use its unprecedented revenues and growing economic capacity to build a broader, more resilient and prosperous economy. That was one of the key messages from President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s business roundtable in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, where he met with private-sector and business leaders through the Americas Society/Council of the Americas. The President’s focus on agriculture, mining, construction, eco-tourism and financial services is particularly timely. These are sectors that can create jobs, expand domestic enterprise and grow economic activity outside of petroleum. The latest numbers put a lot of weight on that proposition. The Mid-Year Report of Guyana for 2026 estimated that real GDP grew by 33.3 per cent in the first half of the year and the nonoil economy grew by 10.1 per cent. The full-year growth outlook has been revised to 20.8 per cent, with non-oil growth seen at 10.2 per cent, mining and quarrying rose by an estimated 40.7 per cent in the first six months, construction by 24.7 per cent, services by 7.2 per cent and manufacturing by three per cent. Agriculture also posted gains in several subsectors, although excessive rainfall led to a marginal contraction across agriculture, forestry and fishing as a whole. These are numbers that matter, because you can’t just say diversification, you have to see it in economic activity, investment and employment. There is also encouraging evidence that the expansion is spreading to the labour market. Employment grew from 264,862

in the first quarter of 2020 to 421,334 by the fourth quarter of 2025, an increase of 156,472 people. Over the same period, unemployment dropped from 12.8 per cent to 6.2 per cent and labour-force participation rose from 50.4 per cent to 59.2 per cent. Those figures add an important human dimension to what might otherwise be just abstract GDP statistics. The private sector accounted for 60.4 per cent of employment in the fourth quarter of 2025. Construction, wholesale and retail trade, agriculture, manufacturing and other industries accounted for significant shares of employment. At the same time, investment is laying the physical foundation for additional growth. Government capital expenditure was near $250 billion in the first half of 2026 and private sector credit expanded by 11.5 per cent. Real estate mortgages increased by 21.2 per cent as lending increased for private dwellings, industrial and commercial properties. The importance of roads, bridges, housing, energy infrastructure, schools and healthcare facilities therefore goes beyond the immediate construction activity they generate. Good infrastructure reduces the cost of doing business, enhances connectivity, supports communities and can provide the platform on which private investment and entrepreneurship can thrive. The international assessment of the direction of Guyana’s economy is relevant here too. The International Monetary Fund has lauded the country’s strides in economic diversification, infrastructure and energy resilience, human capital enhancement and the growth of sectors like construction,

hospitality, tourism, light manufacturing, agri-business and financial services. The Fund has also highlighted the significance of productivity, skills development and export diversification for longer-term sustainable development. Guyana should therefore welcome the rising international interest in its investment opportunities, while remaining focused on ensuring that investment yields durable domestic value. This is where the President’s interaction with business leaders comes in. International investors need opportunities, but Guyana needs investment that builds local business, develops skills, creates quality employment, expands productive capacity and opens new markets for Guyanese goods and services. Agriculture is an obvious area for opportunity. Guyana has substantial land and water resources and wants to be a major food producer and regional food hub. More investment in agro-processing, storage, logistics, technology and value-added production could enable the country to earn more from its agricultural output while creating opportunities for farmers and entrepreneurs. Diversification opportunities are also available through tourism and eco-tourism, especially if investment is not limited to Georgetown and the well-established destinations, but is extended to creating sustainable opportunities for hinterland and rural communities. The conversation must also include financial services, technology, manufacturing and other emerging industries if Guyana is to develop an economy that can create opportunities for the next generation. So, the question is not whether Guyana is growing. The evidence strongly suggests that it is. The more pressing question is how well

the country uses this exceptional period of growth to create lasting improvements in productivity, living standards and economic resilience. This means sustained focus on education and training, health care, affordable and reliable energy, infrastructure, access to finance, transparent regulation and a business environment where local entrepreneurs can compete and grow.” It needs discipline too. Fast growth is an opportunity but can also create pressures, including inflation, capacity constraints and exposure to international commodity movements. Macroeconomic stability, fiscal sustainability and resilience are important as the transformation continues, the IMF has said, noting Guyana’s expansion is strong. Guyana is thus correct to aggressively market itself to the international investment community. But success will not be measured by the number of investors who attend a roundtable or the size of investment commitments announced. It will be the productive factories, the more efficient farms, the growing businesses, the young people with valuable skills, the workers with sustainable employment and the communities with improved infrastructure and services. Guyana has a great opportunity in front of us. The challenge now is to ensure that today’s economic momentum becomes tomorrow’s productive capacity and that the benefits of transformation are felt throughout the economy and across the country. Thus, the message from New York should be seen not merely as an invitation to investors, but as a statement of national ambition: Guyana has entered upon a new economic era, and its success will ultimately depend on how wisely it seizes that opportunity.

Stiff penalties needed for littering at Guyana’s seawalls Dear Editor, GUYANESE of all walks of life have always enjoyed the seawall for picnics, leisurely walks, serene contemplation of the ocean, and so on. Thus, it is very tragic that in many

areas villagers are dumping garbage with impunity on the erstwhile pristine rocks and beautified structures that protect and adorn their villages. As one example, when I walk along the Ocean View, Uitvlugt sea wall, I see huge amounts of smelly household refuse

littering these beautiful rocks. I call on the Government of Guyana to institute a series of penalties, or “littering fines”, that would deter potential violators from dumping. Villagers who are directly affected by such pernicious practices should confidentially report violators to

ensure compliance. I am confident that such measures will lead to attractive, pristine and unsullied coastal walkways in Guyana. Sincerely, Dev Persaud

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, September 24, 2026

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Guyana Development Bank can open new doors for entrepreneurs Dear Editor, THE establishment of the Guyana Development Bank (GDB) represents a significant new opportunity for Guyanese citizens with viable business ideas who have traditionally experienced difficulties accessing financing from commercial banks and other lending institutions. The bank is expected to be launched on October 5, 2026, following the signing and gazetting of the Commencement Order on September 16 by Senior Minister Dr Ashni Singh. The Government has announced that the bank will begin operations with a US$100 million, approximately G$20 billion, capital injection. One of the most notable features announced is the availability of loans of up to G$3 million at zero interest and without collateral for eligible borrowers. The initiative is intended to assist small and medium-sized enterprises, young entrepreneurs, women, farmers, agro-processors, manufacturers, tourism operators and other entrepreneurs. Importantly, the initiative is not simply about providing money. The Government has stated that financing will be accompanied by business mentorship, training, technical assistance and support with business planning. This approach could help entrepreneurs develop businesses that can generate sustainable income and repay their loans. While collateral may not be required for the G$3 million facility, prospective borrowers should not interpret this as meaning that there will be no requirements. In my view, a sound and realistic business plan will be essential. Applicants must be able to demonstrate that their proposed ventures are viable and capable of generating sufficient income to meet the bank’s repayment requirements. Agriculture, for example, is one sector where the facility could have a significant impact. A farmer could potentially use financing to invest in vegetable production, poultry, livestock, aquaculture, farm machinery, greenhouses and shade houses, hydroponic agriculture, crop production, storage, food processing, packaging and transportation. Similarly, a G$3 million facility could potentially help an entrepreneur acquire small-scale processing and packaging equipment, establish a block-making operation, enter manufacturing or develop a tourism-related enterprise. The Development Bank could also provide an alternative pathway for young Guyanese who want to become entrepreneurs rather than relying solely on traditional employment. Consider the possibilities. A trained electrician could establish an electrical contracting company. A trained mechanic could open a repair workshop. A trained chef could establish a catering business, while a trained computer technician could create an information-technology enterprise. The fundamental challenge, however, will be transforming a skill, idea or ambition into a viable business proposal. In a rapidly developing country, there is growing demand for many of these essential services, but entrepreneurs must still demonstrate that their proposed businesses can operate successfully and sustainably. Women are also among the groups identified as potential beneficiaries. The facility could support women who are establishing or expanding businesses in areas such as catering, food production, garment manufacturing and beauty services. There have already been several outreaches by Government Ministers and senior officials highlighting the Development Bank and its potential benefits. It is now important

that prospective beneficiaries take the opportunity to educate themselves about the programme and prepare properly. For Region Ten, my region, this financing opportunity could be particularly relevant. Linden and surrounding communities continue to face the challenge of diversifying their economic base beyond the traditional dependence on bauxite and logging. Access to affordable financing could help local entrepreneurs establish new businesses, expand existing operations and create employment. Ultimately, a successful small business does more than provide an income for its owner. It can create employment, support farmers and suppliers, provide essential services to communities, generate household income and contribute to wider economic activity. The forthcoming Guyana Development Bank there-

fore has the potential to become an important financing mechanism for eligible Guyanese entrepreneurs and small businesses. With the bank scheduled to launch on October 5, prospective entrepreneurs should use the time available to prepare carefully, develop realistic business plans, identify productive ventures and ensure that their proposals demonstrate the potential to generate sustainable income. The opportunity is there. The responsibility now rests with prospective entrepreneurs to prepare themselves to make productive use of it. Yours sincerely, Andrew Forsythe

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, September 24, 2026

Guyana must forcefully condemn the abuse of the libel law

THE judge who presided over the trial when Cathy Hughes sued Vice President Jagdeo for libel over his statement that she was a low-life should put an end to people who abuse the courts by suing for libel when they have suffered no damage to their character. As someone who has been a columnist for 39 years, I have had bitter experience with such people. The thing about glasshouse people suing you is that you know you will win, but you have to take time to engage a lawyer and spend precious time in court that you cannot afford. It is better to pay a lawyer than to rely on the generosity of your friends in the legal fraternity, because they may be too busy to concentrate on your case as they have to earn a living. You cannot expect them to devote their time to your case when they are being paid to defend another client. So what did the judge say? She announced that evidence of damage to character must be submitted. In Guyana, people simply sue, and the writ contends that they have suffered in the eyes of the

public and have been humiliated as a consequence of the publication. I now offer two situations where libel can be justified. If it is written that a man is a homosexual and he sues for character attack, he has a good chance of success if he can prove to the judge that, after the publication, his wife filed for divorce. If his workplace retains him, if his wife remains with him and if his club retains his membership, then he has to prove to the court how damage has occurred. The second example is that of a cricketer. In two days’ time, he has to represent his country. The media carried a report that he had a spat with a female bar attendant. The country’s cricket board announced in a press release that he had been dropped because the board contended that it had to protect the image of the team. Success in a libel action would be guaranteed if there was no such incident. The cricketer has evidence that he lost income and prestige because he was dropped. A former PNC parliamentarian sued the Freddie Kissoon Show over a remark made by Charrandass

Persaud. I was named as a respondent along with Persaud and the station owner. The trial lasted one day, and not an ounce of evidence was presented on how Persaud’s words negatively affected Guyana’s perception of him. That is simply wrong and cannot be defended. There must be a guideline for judges on how they arrive at damage to character in libel cases. Two people in this entire world should not be allowed to sue for libel, and when they lose in court, the judge should award millions in costs. A year ago, David Hinds threatened to sue me for describing him as a racist. What reputation does David have to protect, when he himself has destroyed it, and not in one social media programme but in dozens? I note that, once that case was called, the judge would on the first day have been overwhelmed by video evidence of Hinds’s nasty propaganda, including his referring to a prominent woman in Guyanese society, Geeta Chandan, as a slave catcher. This same David Hinds has, in more than a million ways, accused the govern-

ment of racial discrimination. The other person is Tacuma Ogunseye. He wrote a letter to the Chronicle demanding that it publishes the letter or else he would take action. He was responding to something I had written about him. So, if the matter had gone to court, it would have excited the whole world, because the entire world would have wanted to see his evidence of where his character was damaged. Which character? This is a man who was charged with violent advo-

cacy. Here is what he said at a public meeting: “The first objective is to get the African team in a state of battle readiness…the Afro-Guyanese Police and soldiers would stand with Afro-Guyanese in resisting mainly Indo-Guyanese supporting the PPP/C… “The reality is the army, the Police are majority African Guyanese, once we organise the people and once we begin to fight, we will ensure that our brothers and sisters in uniform will do the right thing. And if they do the right thing, this matter is over in days, not weeks.”

As recently as a few weeks ago, on a David Hinds podcast, he said that the African struggle will be successful only if they go the “bruk up” route. Which judge will entertain a libel trial in which Ogunseye will plead that his character has been damaged? I ask again: which character? 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.

Housing Ministry moves to improve Single Window System

Minister of Housing, Collin Croal and Minister within the Ministry, Vanessa Benn, met with Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand, to discuss ways of strengthening the system, particularly the role of NDCs in processing residential applications THE Ministry of Housing is working to improve coordination with Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) to make Guyana’s Single Window System more efficient for homeowners and property developers. Minister of Housing, Collin Croal and Minister within the Ministry Vanessa Benn met with Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand to discuss ways of strengthening the system, particularly the role of NDCs in processing residential applications.

NDCs are key partner agencies in the Single Window System and are responsible for processing aspects of applications for residential development. The discussions therefore focused on improving coordination and efficiency at the NDC level, with the aim of reducing delays and ensuring completed applications move through the approval process more effectively. The Single Window System is intended to streamline the process for persons seeking to build homes and developers by bringing the

requirements of multiple agencies into a more coordinated application process. The meeting forms part of ongoing efforts by the housing and local government authorities to improve the system and make the approval process smoother and more seamless for applicants. Also attending the meeting were Member of Parliament Suresh Singh; Chief Development Planner of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), Germene Stewart; and CH&PA Secretary, Rajesh Ramgolam.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, September 24, 2026

CAF approves US$200,000 grant to strengthen disaster-resilient housing in Caribbean

THE Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF) has approved a US$200,000 grant to the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) to strengthen residential construction and improve the region’s preparedness for natural disasters. The funding will support the Regional Resilient Residential Construction and Reconstruction Project, which will be implemented over the next 18 months and build on CDEMA’s existing Safer Building Programme. The initiative is aimed at helping Caribbean countries reduce the vulnerability of homes and communities to tropical cyclones, floods, landslides, earthquakes and other natural hazards. It will focus on strengthening the skills and technical capacity of builders, artisans,

contractors and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions involved in residential construction. Under the project, training will be provided in resilient construction techniques, while TVET institutions will receive support to incorporate the Regional Code of Practice for Residential Construction into their programmes. The initiative will also seek to increase awareness of resilient housing standards among homeowners, financial institutions, policymakers and other stakeholders, with the objective of encouraging wider adoption of safer construction practices. CAF Regional Manager for the Caribbean, Dr Stacy Richards-Kennedy, said greater emphasis should be placed on preparing homes and communities before disasters occur.

“Rebuilding after a disaster will always be necessary, but preparing before one strikes is where we can make the greatest difference,” Dr Richards-Kennedy said. She said resilience begins with how residential infrastructure is designed and built, adding that the project reflects CAF’s commitment to supporting not only resilient infrastructure but also knowledge, technical capacity and practices that promote disaster preparedness. “CAF is proud to partner with CDEMA and to provide technical assistance grant funding to support this important project to build more resilient communities,” she said. CDEMA Executive Director, Elizabeth Riley, said the initiative would help strengthen the region’s ability to protect lives, livelihoods and development gains from

the impacts of disasters. “Every disaster reminds us that resilience is not built in the aftermath of an event, but through the decisions we make before it occurs,” Riley said. She said strengthening the design and construction of homes and communities was a critical investment in disaster preparedness. Riley added that CDEMA’s partnership with CAF would support efforts to strengthen resilient construction practices, build technical capacity and promote greater preparedness across the Caribbean. The project is expected to contribute to efforts to ensure that communities are better equipped to withstand disasters while reducing the potential damage to homes and protecting development gains across the region.

From left: Dr Stacy Richards-Kennedy, Regional Manager for the Caribbean and Representative in Barbados for CAF, with Elizabeth Riley, Executive Director of CDEMA

US visa reviews done at the level of Washington - Ambassador Theriot says in response to questions on Justice Persaud’s visa review

THE United States Embassy in Guyana was not aware that the visa of High Court Judge Justice Gino Persaud was under review when he was stopped from boarding a US-bound flight on Sunday, US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, said yesterday. Justice Persaud was blocked from boarding the flight at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport and was informed that his US visa was under review. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a security conference in Guyana, Ambassador Theriot explained that while the US Embassy would, on occasion, provide information to Washington concerning visa holders and their eligibility to retain their visas, it was not aware of information related to

the review of Justice Persaud’s visa. “On occasion we would submit that information, but in the case that I think you are talking about, we were not aware”, the Ambassador said. Theriot explained that a visa may be placed under review when a US Government agency receives information concerning the visa holder. “It means that from some US Government source, they have received some information that would cause them to reconsider whether that person is eligible for a visa”, Ambassador Theriot said. She further explained: “There is a legal basis for someone receiving a visa, and that is that they have proven that they are not an intending immigrant to the United States. That’s the

basis of the tourist and none business visa. That’s the basis, the legal basis in U.S. law is that they have they qualified because they proved them that they are not an intending immigrant.” Meanwhile, Attorney General Anil Nandlall has since dismissed claims that the Guyana Government might have been responsible for the US visa review for the High Court Judge. “The government of Guyana, including the president, the vice president, and the attorney general, have absolutely no influence whatsoever over American U.S. foreign policy or any aspect of American U.S. government or U.S. governance, and in particular, certainly, no influence whatsoever in relation to whom the

U.S. will permit to travel to the United States of America,” the Attorney General said on Tuesday. Justice Persaud was reportedly unable to proceed with planned travel on Saturday after being advised that his United States visa was under review,

according to sections of the media. Justice Persaud was reportedly among a delegation of Guyanese judicial officers scheduled to travel to Kingston, Jamaica, for the Commonwealth Magistrates’ and Judges’ Association (CMJA) Annual

Conference 2026, which runs from September 20 to 24. According to the media reports, Justice Persaud was advised during the airline check-in process that he could not proceed on the itinerary because of the reported status of his U.S. visa.

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US$7.8M IOM programme backed by Guyana’s strict vetting of third-country nationals

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, September 24, 2026

— US Ambassador says

THE United States has confirmed that Guyana is exercising strict control over which third-country nationals are allowed to enter the country, with the Government rejecting the vast majority of names

submitted on recent US manifests. Speaking with reporters, US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, on Wednesday, explained that while Washington provides a list of third-country nationals for

possible transfer to Guyana, it is the Government of Guyana that ultimately decides who is accepted. She disclosed that from the most recent manifest, “only six people came”, despite the list being “quite large”, signalling that local authorities have taken a cautious approach.

According to Theriot, the process is driven by Guyana’s insistence that it will not accept anyone with a criminal record. “It depends on how many of the people on the manifest are acceptable to the Government of Guyana. We do not send anyone who has not been approved by the Gov-

US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot ernment,” she said, noting that no one is sent unless they have first been cleared by the Guyanese authorities. She added that the Government relies not only on information supplied by the US, but also on its own intelligence and regional tools. As a Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member state, Guyana utilises regional databases and vetting mechanisms to independently assess each prospective entrant. “You will know that only six people came, and the manifest was quite large. So a lot of people were rejected. The Government here has said they will not take anyone with a criminal record, which is absolutely appropriate and within their rights. And they make the determination based on the information that we provide, but also the information that they have. They have databases that they use as part of CARICOM as well, and so they’re able to vet these people with their own intelligence,” Theriot stressed. She described the process as “a combination of ways” used to ensure that “they are absolutely not letting anyone into Guyana” who poses a risk. Theriot said the US cannot forecast how many people will arrive in Guyana over the remainder of the year, precisely because the final decision rests with the local authorities. The US approach, she explained, is to present a man-

ifest and then operationalise whatever the Government of Guyana approves. “Our plan was to hopefully send one flight a month with those who had been approved,” she said, but cautioned that actual arrivals depend entirely on how many names Guyana accepts from each list. At the centre of the arrangement is a two-year, US$7.8 million contract with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), which is responsible for supporting the resettlement or temporary stay of these third-country nationals. Theriot outlined that the funding covers a comprehensive package of services, including housing, food, healthcare, skills training and communication support. Individuals brought to Guyana under the arrangement are not locked into a single pathway. Theriot pointed out that people have the choice either to remain in Guyana temporarily while arrangements are made for their return to their country of origin, or to pursue resettlement as a longer-term option, subject to agreement with the host authorities. “There are two different programmes,” she explained. “One is where they are just waiting here until they are returned to their home country, if they agree to that, or they can choose to resettle, and it’s up to them and the government.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 24, 2026

President Ali calls for multi-sectoral approach to pandemic preparedness

P R E S I D E N T D r I rfaan Ali has called for a multi-sectoral approach to pandemic preparedness, stressing that responsibility for preventing and managing future health emergencies cannot rest solely with health ministries. The Guyanese Head of State made the call on Tuesday during a high-level dialogue on making pandemic prevention, preparedness and response a sustained economic, devel-

President Dr Irfaan Ali made the call on Tuesday during a high-level dialogue on making pandemic prevention, preparedness and response a sustained economic, development and security priority, held on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York

opment and security priority, held on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York. The President said preparedness must begin before an emergency occurs, with countries investing in laboratories, hospitals and trained personnel to strengthen their capacity, “We cannot prevent every outbreak, but we can prevent an outbreak from becoming a catastrophe,” Dr Ali said.

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He also urged governments to strengthen collaboration through technology and scientific capabilities, while building cross-border capacity, pooling investments and increasing the local and regional manufacture of life-saving medicines. The dialogue was held under the theme, “Two Regions, One Future: Financing Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response to Build Global Health Security”.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 24, 2026

US law enforcement chiefs pay courtesy call on Prime Minister - as Guyana hosts INTERPOL regional conference

PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret'd) Mark Phillips, performing the functions of President, received United States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot and a delegation of senior US law enforcement officials at the Office of the Prime Minister, in a meeting aimed at reaffirming co-operation on public safety, law enforcement and regional security.

The delegation is in Guyana for the INTERPOL Americas Regional Conference. The US officials included Stephanie Creasy, Deputy Director of the United States Marshals Service and Daniel R. Vizzi, Acting Director of INTERPOL Washington, the United States National Central Bureau. Also in the delegation were Chief Inspector Andrew

Haggerty, US Marshals Service Attaché to the Caribbean; Sandy Rao, Country Advisor to Guyana; Luis Mendez, Regional Advisor at the Colombia Foreign Field Office; and Seon Greaves, Criminal Fraud Investigator at the US Embassy. Prime Minister Phillips was accompanied by Home Affairs Minister, Oneidge Walrond; Police Commis-

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, performing the functions of President, United States Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot, a delegation of senior US law enforcement officials and local officials at the Office of the Prime Minister sioner, Dr Clifton Hicken; National Security Adviser, Captain Gerry Gouveia and

Colonel Sheldon Howell, Director of the National Intelligence and Security

Agency (NISA). Other senior security officials also attended.

packaging and preserving, with the broader objective of helping them pursue income-generating opportunities and greater economic independence. Participants are also expected to gain experience in developing products that could eventually be introduced to the local market. According to the initiative, products produced during the programme will be eligible for entry into the local market following completion of the necessary certification process by the GMC. The certification process is expected to provide an important pathway for participants to move beyond training and into commercial activity, including potential small-business ventures.

The programme forms part of efforts to create more inclusive economic opportunities for persons with disabilities while recognising their capacity to contribute to productive activity and entrepreneurship. The initiative also seeks to provide participants with practical avenues to apply their skills and develop products that can potentially generate sustainable livelihoods. The collaboration among the Office of the First Lady, the Ministry of Agriculture and the GMC brings together training, technical expertise and market-related support, with the intention of helping participants translate their newly acquired skills into viable economic opportunities.

First Lady launches packaging, preserving training for persons with disabilities

PERSONS with disabilities from the Centre for Equity, Innovation and Opportunity in Palmyra, Berbice, are being equipped with skills in food packaging and preserving as part of an initiative aimed at expanding employment and entrepreneurship opportunities. First Lady Arya Ali attended the opening of the Packaging and Preserving Training Programme on Tuesday at the Empower Guyana Building. The programme was organised by the Office of the First Lady in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and facilitated by the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC). The training is designed to provide participants with practical knowledge and skills in

First Lady Arya Ali attended the opening of the Packaging and Preserving Training Programme on Tuesday at the Empower Guyana Building. Participants are also expected to gain experience in developing products that could eventually be introduced to the local market

Women’s Chamber joins review of Guyana’s labour laws REPRESENTATIVES of the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry Guyana have joined consultations on the modernisation of the country’s labour laws, bringing private-sector perspectives on compliance, women-owned businesses, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and equality in employment. The engagement forms part of the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning’s ongoing review of Guyana’s labour legislative framework as the country’s economy expands and workplace conditions evolve.

Discussions with the Women’s Chamber examined issues affecting private-sector compliance, entrepreneurship and the operations of women-owned businesses and SMEs. Stakeholders also considered ways of improving clarity in the legislation and reducing the potential for workplace disputes. The consultations are intended to ensure that the revised framework addresses the realities faced by employers and employees while providing clearer guidance on rights, responsibilities and obligations in the workplace.

The Ministry has said the wider labour-law review is necessary to bring legislation developed under a different economic environment into line with Guyana’s changing workforce, the emergence of new sectors and evolving workplace realities. The review is also examining areas where existing legislation may require amendment, harmonisation or repeal. Recent consultations have involved government, legal and international labour stakeholders, including the International Labour Organization (ILO), with discussions covering legislative drafting, labour

relations, dispute resolution and alignment with relevant ILO conventions and CARICOM standards. Guyana’s existing labour framework covers a range of areas, including industrial relations, wages, termination and severance, trade unions, discrimination, equal rights and occupational safety and health. The Ministry’s stated responsibilities include labour inspections and enforcement, dispute resolution, conciliation and mediation, as well as tripartite consultation among government, employers and workers. The Women’s Cham-

The Women’s Chamber consultation adds a private-sector and gender-focused perspective to the process, particularly on the practical implications of labour regulations for women entrepreneurs and smaller businesses ber consultation adds a private-sector and gender-focused perspective to the process, particularly on the practical implications of labour regulations for women entrepreneurs and smaller businesses. Further stakeholder en-

gagement is expected as the Ministry continues work towards a modern and coherent labour framework designed to support decent work, stronger industrial relations and greater clarity for both employers and workers.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 24, 2026

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 24, 2026

Guyana, Brazil discuss deeper bilateral co-operation GUYANA and Brazil are looking to deepen bilateral relations, with Foreign Affairs Ministers Hugh Hilton Todd and Mauro Luiz Iecker Vieira discussing areas of mutual interest during a meeting on the sidelines of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly on September 22. Todd, Guyana’s Min-

ister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, held bilateral talks with Vieira, Brazil’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, as the two sides reviewed areas of co-operation between the neighbouring countries. The discussions focused on strengthening existing relations and exploring opportunities for further co-operation in

areas of mutual interest. Guyana and Brazil established formal diplomatic relations on August 26, 1968, and have since maintained broadbased co-operation spanning trade, health, military and police matters, and border demarcation. The two countries share a longstanding relationship, reinforced by their geographic proximity and co-operation

on issues affecting their common border and wider regional interests. The latest ministerial engagement forms part of Guyana’s ongoing diplomatic engagements during the 81st Session of the General Assembly, where countries are holding bilateral discussions on strengthening international and regional partnerships.

Foreign Affairs Ministers Hugh Hilton Todd and Mauro Luiz Iecker Vieira discuss areas of mutual interest

$170M Little Diamond day/night care centre commissioned A $170 million day- and night- care and early childhood development centre has been commissioned at Little Diamond on the East Bank Demerara, providing expanded childcare services for working parents in the community and surrounding areas. The Little Diamond Day/Night Care and Early Childhood Development Centre was officially com-

the facility is intended to give parents greater peace of mind while they work, knowing that their children are being cared for by trained and professional caregivers. The day/night model is also expected to provide greater flexibility for parents whose employment schedules extend beyond conventional working hours. The commissioning forms part of efforts to make

The Little Diamond Day/Night Care and Early Childhood Development Centre was officially commissioned on Wednesday by Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud missioned on Wednesday by Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud. The facility, procured under the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF), has the capacity to accommodate up to 50 children and will provide childcare during both daytime and night-time hours. The centre is expected to particularly benefit families living within the Little Diamond Young Professional Housing Scheme and neighbouring communities, where access to childcare can be an important consideration for parents working non-traditional hours. Minister Persaud said

childcare more accessible while supporting parents who need reliable care for their children as they pursue employment and other income-generating activities. The facility will also provide early childhood development services, giving children access to structured care and developmental support during their formative years. The investment in the centre is expected to strengthen childcare support in Little Diamond and surrounding communities while contributing to greater opportunities for parents to participate in the workforce.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 24, 2026

The Bishops’ High students turn classroom lessons into agro-processing products STUDENTS of The Bishops’ High School are gaining practical skills in agro-processing, with a Grade Seven project producing a range of soaps, sauces, seasonings and other products that were showcased at the 2026 TVET Fair and Exposition. The students displayed their WEMA line of products at a booth during the recent exposition at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara, demonstrating how classroom-based technical and vocational education can be translated into practical skills with potential applications beyond school. Among the products on display were oatmeal, turmeric, pear and honey soaps, pineapple-infused pepper sauce, mango achar and flaked seasonings. The products were made, packaged and labelled by the students under the guidance of their teachers. Teacher Devendra Ghansharma, 27, who teaches agriculture and science to Grades Seven through Nine, said the products represented the students’ ability to apply lessons learnt through the school’s agro-processing programme. He told the Guyana Chronicle that the school’s agro-processing facility was established about two years ago as part of efforts to equip students with practical and workforce-related skills. Ghansharma said all 135 Grade Seven students participated in the agro-processing project, giving them an opportunity to work through the process of developing products from raw materials to finished goods. He said the students’ creativity and willingness to put their knowledge into practice contributed to the success of the project. The initiative forms part of the school’s participation in the Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) programme, which is being offered in secondary schools alongside traditional academic education. The CVQ system is designed to provide students

with competency-based occupational skills in addition to their academic qualifications, giving them practical experience that can be applied in the workplace. According to information provided for the exposition, 94 secondary schools across Guyana now offer CVQ programmes, while 800 CVQ certifications have been awarded at the secondary-school level. The expansion of technical and vocational education is also being supported through national investment in infrastructure and training. The 2026 National Budget allocated $3 billion towards strengthening technical education infrastructure, expanding regional access and aligning training with industry requirements. Programmes such as Commercial Food Preparation and Garment Making Level One have also been expanded through Practical Instruction Centres in partnership with institutions such as the Carnegie School of Home Economics. New and upgraded TVET facilities are being developed in several communities, including Mabaruma, Hopetown, Beterverwagting, Fellowship, St Ignatius and Bartica. For students such as those at The Bishops’ High School, the value of such programmes extends beyond earning a qualification. Practical exposure to food processing, product development, packaging and presentation can introduce students to areas such as entrepreneurship, agriculture, manufacturing and the wider agro-processing sector. The CVQ qualifications are based on CARICOM-approved occupational standards, allowing successful graduates to obtain credentials that can be recognised across the region. The Bishops’ High School project therefore provided a practical demonstration of how vocational education can complement academic learning, while exposing students to skills that can potentially support further education, employment and entrepreneurship.

For the 135 Grade Seven students involved, the WEMA project offered an early opportunity to move from learning concepts in the classroom to creating products that could be presented to the wider public.

Teacher Devendra Ghansharma as he displays the products made by the students of The Bishops’ High School (Elton John photo)

The pineapple-infused pepper sauce

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 24, 2026

RCGC launches international TwinConnect exchange initiative THE Rotaract Club of Georgetown Central (RCGC) has launched an eight-month international pen-pal programme aimed at building friendships and cultural understanding between young leaders in Guyana and the Turks and Caicos Islands. Dubbed TwinConnect, the initiative pairs at least 30 Rotaractors, 15 from each club, in an organised exchange with members of the Rotaract Club of Providenciales. The programme is the first major initiative to emerge from a formal Twinship between RCGC, representing Rotary District 7030 in Guyana, and the Rotaract Club of Providenciales, rep-

resenting District 7020 in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Twinship is intended to facilitate sustained collaboration, cultural exchange and joint community service between the two clubs throughout the Rotary year.

TwinConnect began on September 4 and will run until April 23, 2027. Participants will communicate regularly through one-on-one exchanges, monthly virtual fellowship meetings and shared monthly activities.

Through the programme, the Rotaractors will learn about one another’s communities, cultures, professions and service experiences, with the aim of developing friendships that extend beyond the duration of the

initiative. International Service Director of RCGC, Afeeza Khan, said the programme was designed to create lasting relationships rather than a one-off interaction. “We didn't want a one-off event. We wanted something that gives relationships room to breathe, to grow, and to become something real,” Khan said. The club said the eightmonth duration was deliberate, noting that meaningful international fellowship requires consistency, trust and shared experiences. TwinConnect was developed in response to interest from members of the two clubs, with organisers saying the approach ensures participants have a direct stake in shaping the initiative and its outcomes. The RCGC also plans to introduce additional activities under the Twinship, including a flagship Twin Exchange during World Ro-

taract Week 2027. Under that initiative, one Rotaractor from each club is expected to travel to the other’s country. The programme is aligned with several Rotary International areas of focus, including peacebuilding and conflict prevention, basic education and literacy, and community economic development. The RCGC said the initiative demonstrates how international fellowship can contribute to service by encouraging young people to develop greater understanding of communities and cultures different from their own. The Rotaract Club of Georgetown Central is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation for people between the ages of 18 and 35. It focuses on community service, leadership development and responsible citizenship in Guyana and internationally.

New Amsterdam prison escapee found hiding on fishing vessel - six arrested for alleged harbouring

Budnarine Persaud POLICE have recaptured a fugitive from New Amsterdam Prison, and detained six other people on suspicion of helping him evade capture, in an operation that highlights the role of community networks in cases of escape from custody. Budnarine Persaud, 28, a fisherman of Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice, was found hiding in the bow of a fishing vessel at No. 65 Fisheries, Corentyne, at about 03:30hrs on Wednesday, September 23, 2026. Police said they acted on information received.

Persaud was taken to the Springlands Police Station and placed in custody pending an investigation into his escape from lawful custody. Four men and two women were also arrested in connection with the alleged harbouring of the escapee. They were likewise taken to the Springlands Police Station and detained. Investigations are continuing. The Guyana Prison Service commended members of the public and the Guyana Police Force for their timely assistance in recapturing prisoner Budnarine Persaud.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 24, 2026

Health Ministry rejects claims CORTEX collects doctors’ banking information

THE Ministry of Health has rejected claims that its CORTEX digital health system was designed to collect banking information from doctors, describing the allegation as unverified and a misrepresentation of the system’s purpose. The Ministry, in a statement responding to recent remarks by Opposition Member of Parliament Ganesh Mahipaul, said CORTEX forms part of its broader digital transformation programme aimed at strengthening accountability and efficiency throughout the pharmaceutical supply chain. The system is designed to support processes ranging from pharmaceutical procurement and inventory management to distribution and the dispensing of medication to patients, the Ministry said. It also operates within a wider digital health environment that includes the ongoing implementation of electronic patient records and other digital tools intended to improve healthcare delivery. Addressing concerns about the information being requested from healthcare professionals, the Ministry said doctors and other authorised personnel must be properly identified and verified before being granted access to the digital systems. According to the Ministry, healthcare professionals were informed of the information required, the reasons for requesting it and how the information would be used. It said the submission and verification of professional credentials are safeguards intended to promote accountability, ensure appropriate access controls and protect sensitive patient information. The Ministry specifically rejected the suggestion that CORTEX was designed to col-

lect doctors’ banking information as part of its health-sector functions. “If any doctor believes that banking information was requested through CORTEX for an unexplained or unauthorised purpose, the Ministry encourages that individual to provide the specific request so that it can be immediately reviewed and verified,” the statement said. The Ministry added that, to date, no evidence had been presented to substantiate the claim that CORTEX is collecting doctors’ banking information as part of its health-sector functions. It said it welcomed legitimate questions about data protection, cybersecurity and the digitalisation of healthcare, noting that such discussions are important as Guyana continues to modernise its public health system. However, the Ministry maintained that concerns surrounding the digital transformation of healthcare should be based on verified information. It said CORTEX is intended to strengthen accountability across the pharmaceutical supply chain, from procurement through to the delivery of medication to patients, while ensuring that healthcare professionals operating within the digital environment are properly verified. The Government, the Ministry said, remains committed to protecting personal information, strengthening cybersecurity and ensuring that the digital transformation of the health sector is implemented responsibly and securely. The Ministry said it would continue to address legitimate concerns and provide clarification where necessary, but cautioned against presenting unverified allegations as established fact.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 24, 2026

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 24, 2026

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Thursday September 24, 2026) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) JAK (2) Sufyan Moqim (ABF) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who scored most runs in CPL 2026? (2) Which ABF bowler took most wickets in CPL 2026? Answers in tomorrow’s issue 15:30 hrs Cosmic Man ENGLISH RACING TIPS NEWMARKET O8:15 hrs Codr Of Honour 08:50 hrs Lady Roxby 09:25 hrs Lazurite 10:00 hrs Mezzo Forte 10:35 hrs Gregory 11:10 hrs First Officer 11:45 hrs A La Noche PERTH 08:39 hrs Poetic Twist 09:14 hrs The Last Cloud 09:49 hrs Expert Analysis 10:24 hrs Sir Carnegie 10:59 hrs Al Sayah 11:34 hrs Jetovango 1210 hrs Tigress Lilly SOUTHWELL 11:22 hrs Starakova 11:58 hrs Bluestone Lady 12:30 hrs Enpassant 13:00 hrs Tasdeed 13:30 hrs Lady Henshaw 14:00 hrs Qila 14:30 hrs Fiorella Princess 15:00 hrs Hamdania

IRISH RACING TIPS LISTOWEL 08:57 hrs Al Arrivee 09:32 hrs Of Land And Sea 10:07 hrs Beauvallon 10:42 hrs Metamorpheus 11:17 hrs Mart.Lane 11:52 hrs Largy Hill 12:25 hrs Berkstar SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS GREYVILLE 08:20 hrs Heavenly Mafia 08:55 hrs Special Glamour 09:30 hrs Hammer Blow 10:05 hrs Time In Paris 10:40 hrs Whatastar 11:15 hrs Etzebeth AMERICAN RACING TIPS BELMONT Race 1 Carpet City Race 2 Bayfront Race 3 Hill Road Race 4 Putonahappyface Race 5 Liberty Secret Race 6 Polar Bear Plunge

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 24, 2026

England players carrying World Cup scar – Saka ENGLAND’s winger Bukayo Saka says the team is still carrying the “scar” of their heartbreaking World Cup semi-final exit to Argentina. Thomas Tuchel’s team was on the verge of becoming the first England side to reach a men’s World Cup final since 1966, but were stunned by two late Argentina goals as they fell to a 2-1 loss. A thrilling 6-4 victory over France in the bronze medal match gave the Three Lions their best World Cup finish in six decades, but the wait for their second trophy goes on. “Obviously, there is still a scar on us when you believed and everyone was so united and so confident we could do it,” Saka said. “Not just us, but the

whole country we felt. “You try to move on as soon as possible, but you know a scar is a scar, it decides to heal when it heals itself.” England gets an immediate reminder of what might have been as they host world champions Spain at Wembley on Saturday (19:45 BST) in the first of four Nations League matches over the next two weeks. “We are trying to draw a line under [the World Cup] now and focus on the new international season that we have coming up,” Saka added. “We have got four massive, difficult group games to try and qualify us for the Nations League [knockouts] that we are really focused on.” Meanwhile, Saka be-

Bukayo Saka started three of England’s eight games at the World Cup

lieves it is only a matter of time before his Arsenal team-mate Max Dowman, 16, earns a senior England call-up.

“I think so,” Saka said. “His talent is insane. It’s up to him how far he is going to go in football. His talent is crazy.”

England Under-21 manager, Lee Carsley, concurred with Saka on Dowman’s “amazing talent” but thinks the youngster staying with

the under-19s during this international window is the best option. “He is more than capable of playing in the under-21s,” Carsley said. “What I do think will happen with the age group he goes to is that he can play the minutes. “He can also have that time to consolidate where he is in his career and play with his friends again and take that little bit of pressure off him. “I have no doubt that Max is going to be with the under-21s. “That is something I am keen to have a conversation with him and his parents, on the way we see his pathway going, because he is an amazing talent and someone we are very lucky to have.”(BBC Sport)

BCCI confirms Goa as venue for IPL Bavuma expects callow South Africa fast bowlers to step up in Australia ODI series 2027 auction THE Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed Goa as the venue for this year’s IPL auction. BCCI secretary, Devajit Saikia, told Cricbuzz on Wednesday that the auction will be held in mid-December. Cricbuzz was first to report that this year’s auction will be in India. The date of the auction has also been finalised, al-

though it has not yet been revealed. Saikia, however, said it could be held between December 14-16. As it is expected to be a small auction, it will be a one-day affair. Over the last three years, the auction was held in Dubai, Jeddah and Abu Dhabi. The BCCI has bucked that trend, with the Governing Council recently deciding to hold it in India in response to requests from

a majority of the IPL franchises. Next year, when the mega auction is due, the auction may go overseas again. The BCCI’s first priority was finding a venue which was a five-star hotel that could accommodate over 100 guests, representing the large delegations of the 10 IPL franchises. Presumably, they have found a suitable hotel in Goa. (Cricbuzz)

SOUTH AFRICA must find a way to get the best out of their depleted fast bowling attack when they host Australia in a three-match one-day international series starting in Durban on Thursday, according to captain Temba Bavuma. Bavuma ‌said a fearsome pack of fast bowlers for touring teams to contend with is in South African cricket’s “DNA”, but they have had to cast the net wide for this series. Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Kwena Maphaka and Ottneil Baartman were all ruled out with hamstring injuries, while Nandre Burger has a bad back. It has left an ⁠ i nexperienced seam bowling line-up to take on Australia, with Lizaad Williams, the Jansen twins, Marco and Duan, Gerald Coetzee, Corbin Bosch and Nqobani Mokoena having played only 72 ODIs between them. “I think we’re going to have to make the most of the bowling resources that we have from the seam department. There are options there. I think it’s just how smartly

Temba Bavuma expects SA bowlers to step up

we approach managing the loads of our fast bowlers,” Bavuma told reporters on Wednesday. “We want teams, when they come here, to know that they’re going to have to with ⁠our fast bowlers. That’s part of our DNA.” South Africa has only played three ODIs in 2026 when a depleted squad swept Namibia 3-0 in a series this month. But as they prepare to host the 2027 World Cup a year from now, this is a crucial season for the t⁠ eam in the 50-over format. “It’s been a while since

this ODI team has come together,” Bavuma said. “I think there’s a strong desire to look after our ODI record of late and ensure that ⁠we’re putting our best foot forward out there on the field. “From a team perspective, we generally know who those core players are (for the World Cup). I don’t think we ⁠will move away too much from that,” he added. “We’ll see new faces coming in, but probably that England series (in January 2027) will be closer to what we think we will have for the World Cup.” (Reuters)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 24, 2026

Raptors sign Kawhi Leonard to $115M extension ALL-STAR forward Kawhi Leonard has agreed to a two-year, $115 million contract extension with the Toronto Raptors, plus a player option for the 202829 season, ESPN reported on Tuesday. The report, citing Leonard’s agent Harrison Gaines of Slash Sports, said Leonard has three years a‌ nd $165 million on his deal with the Raptors, who re-obtained the player on Sept. 14 in a long-delayed trade from the Los Angeles Clippers. Leonard agreed to take $11 million less than his maximum contract extension amount as well as waive a $7.5 million trade kicker to come back to Toronto. The trade, initially agreed to on June 30, was officially signed off on ⁠ b y both teams after months of delay amid the NBA’s investigation into Los Angeles allegedly giving Leonard impermissible benefits. In return for sending Leonard to Toronto, where in his lone season the Raptors won the 2019 NBA championship, the Clippers received forward Brandon Ingram, guard Gradey Dick, two unprotected first-round picks, one first-round pick swap and two second-round picks. Those acquired picks will help to replace the five first-round picks the league stripped from the Clippers

Kawhi Leonard has agreed to a two-year, $115 million contract extension with the Toronto Raptors

for the $28 million “noshow job” the Clippers arranged for Leonard through one of their partners, Aspiration, in order to circumvent the salary cap. The ⁠ f ound the Clippers also made arrangements to pay Leonard through team partners Boingo Wireless, Daktronics and Lockton Insurance. Clippers owner Steve Ballmer announced Sept. 13 that he would accept the NBA’s punishment, which included a one-year suspension and a $30 million fine along with the forfeited draft picks. Leonard, 35, averaged 25.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, 4.1 assists ⁠and 1.7 steals per game over 331 games (329 starts) across the past six seasons for the Clippers. He

averaged a career-high 27.9 points in 65 regular-season games last season. The seven-time All-NBA player and two-time NBA Defensive ⁠ P layer of the Year was with the Raptors for just one very eventful season, where he anchored the first NBA title in franchise history before signing as a free agent with Los ⁠Angeles that offseason. Leonard has averaged 20.7 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.7 steals over 798 games (769 starts) across 14 seasons with the San Antonio Spurs (201118), Raptors (2018-19) and Clippers (2019-26). He was voted the NBA Finals MVP in leading the Spurs (2014) and Raptors to titles. (Reuters)

BM SOAT/Prem’s Electrical KTM looking to continue form... (From back page) cipal Rameez Mohamed confirmed they are looking to carry that form into this weekend’s first round of the National Championships. “We had a good run in Barbados a few weeks ago, and the car is in a really good window, so we are obviously looking to translate that form home, here, in front of our fans,” Mohamed said. He continued, “The chal-

lenge is that earlier today (Wednesday) we got the car back into our possession, so my team, led by wingman (Daniel Gafoor), will have to run it back through, and we will do a shakedown later this week.” But from the way we left the car in Barbados, we aren’t expecting any major work, so fans of the BM SOAT/ Prem’s Electrical can rest assured that we will

be on that grid on Sunday,” Mohamed added. The car is expected to be a fixture in group four. Meanwhile, GMR&SC has pegged admission at $4,000 for adults and $2,000 for children. The 2026 championship is supported by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, One Guyana, GuyOil, Enet, KFC, Tropical Shipping and Castrol.

LA28 unveils Venice Beach triathlon courses for 2028 Olympics LOS ANGELES, (Reuters) - Los Angeles 2028 organisers unveiled preliminary ‌triathlon courses for the Olympic and Paralympic Games on Wednesday, setting the events in Venice Beach with a shared finish line overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The routes, which remain subject to operational testing, will use a central transition area near the beach, allowing spectators to watch athletes move between swimming, cycling and running s⁠ egments. Organisers said the generally flat cycling and running courses were designed to encourage fast racing. The women’s individual triathlon at the Games is

scheduled for July 15 and will be the first event in which LA28 medals are awarded. The men’s individual race will follow the next day with the mixed relay set for July 20. In the individual events, competitors begin with a 1.5 km ocean swim, entering the water directly from the beach rather than from a pontoon. The swim will comprise a 1,000m , f⁠ ollowed by a brief beach run and a second 500m lap. Athletes will then complete eight 5 km cycling laps, including stretches on the Venice Beach path and city streets, before a four-lap, 10 km run that will cross bridges in the Venice Canals area.

The mixed r⁠ elay will feature teams of four athletes competing in alternating women-men-women-men order. Each athlete will swim 350m, cycle 6.6 km and run 1.6 km before handing off to a teammate. Paralympic individual races, ⁠scheduled for August 18-19, 2028, will include a 750 m swim starting from a barge beyond the breakwater, followed by a 20 km bike course and a 5⁠ km run. Events will include athletes across six sport classes. LA28 said the courses will be tested during a World Triathlon T50 Triathlon World Tour event in Venice from July 16-18, 2027.

Project Cricket Gear gets boost from Amzad Mohammed AMZAD Mohammed, on a recent visit to Guyana with the Valley Boys masters cricket team of South Trinidad, donated two cricket bats to Project Cricket Gear for young and promising cricketers in Guyana. The project is a joint initiative between Anil Beharry of Guyana and Kishan Das of the USA. The medium-pace all-rounder, who tours the Caribbean and North America on goodwill tours, said that he followed the project and was very impressed with the number of persons that benefited from it, youths in particular. The successful businessman is also involved in charity work in his country. The total cricket-related items received/purchased so far include: $843,146 in cash, 13 coloured cricket uniforms, one set of stumps, two trophies, 36 pairs of cricket shoes, 40 pairs of batting pads, 51 cricket bats, 48 pairs of batting gloves, 29 thigh pads, three pairs of wicket-keeping pads, six arm guards, two chest pads, two boxes, 15 gear bags, 13 bat rubbers, seven helmets, one fibreglass bat, one floppy hat, 16 boxes and four white cricket balls, 13 boxes of red

Donor Amzad Mohammed

cricket balls, one bat cone, one pair of batting inners and 28 footballs. To date, 108 players from all three counties of Guyana have benefited directly from cash, 11 gear bags, two trophies, four arm guards, 43 bats, five boxes, six helmets, 39 pairs of cricket shoes, 23 pairs of batting pads, 25 thigh pads, one bat grip, 42 pairs of batting gloves, one pair of wicket-keeping pads and four pairs of wicket-keeping

gloves. Cricket-related items, used or new, are distributed free of cost to young and promising cricketers in Guyana. Skills, discipline and education are important characteristics of the recipients. Talent spotting is being done across the country and club leaders also assist to identify same. Progressive and well managed cricket clubs with a youth program, will also benefit.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 24, 2026

BM Soat Auto Sales supports IMC Over-40s World Cup as Silver Sponsor THE Cricket West Indies Masters Association (CWIMA) welcomes BM Soat Auto Sales as a Silver Sponsor of the IMC Over-40s Cricket World Cup Guyana 2026. The company joins the businesses supporting Guyana’s hosting of the international masters tournament. The World Cup will bring together 16 teams for 72 matches from Oct 17, 2026 to Oct 31, 2026. The

West Indies will compete on home soil, with the Cup Final scheduled for the Guyana National Stadium at Providence. BM Soat Auto Sales’ contribution supports CWIMA’s preparations to stage the tournament and welcome visiting teams. Delivering a competition of this scale depends on the combined work of organisers, clubs, volunteers and sponsors, and CWIMA thanks the company for backing

that effort. The tournament gives cricketers aged 40 and over the opportunity to compete internationally and represent their teams on a World Cup stage. For local supporters, it offers the chance to watch experienced players in action and get behind the West Indies. BM Soat Auto Sales is a leading auto sales dealer in Guyana and was founded in 1986. BM Soat Auto Sales offers a range of vehicle

brands and models through showrooms in Georgetown, Success and Happy Acres. Its support brings an established Guyanese automotive business into the World Cup’s sponsor community. Company information is available at bmsoat.com. CWIMA thanks the management and staff of BM Soat Auto Sales for their support of masters cricket and the IMC Over-40s Cricket World Cup Guyana 2026.

Supervisor Samantha of BM Soat Auto Sales Croal St Office pose with World Cup Tournament Director, Raj Singh, at the Silver Sponsor launch

Starc wary of ‘unknown’ conditions on Rachin Ravindra ruled out of India T20Is; Milne and Bracewell return Australia tour of South Africa AUSTRALIA’S pace spearhead, Mitchell Starc, said an unusually timed tour of South Africa presents an element of the unknown for both teams, with rain and unfamiliar early-season conditions likely to shape the series. South hosts Australia in a three-match one-day series starting on Thursday before the teams meet in a three-test series next month, Australia’s first test tour of the country in eight years. With the Tests scheduled for October, when rain is often a major factor in parts of South Africa, ⁠Starc said conditions could differ significantly from those traditionally associated with the country. “There’s an element of the unknown,” Starc told reporters on Tuesday. “It’s part of test cricket and you just adapt to what’s in front of you.” The 36-year-old, who took nine wickets in Australia’s last test at Durban, said recent wet weather could produce a different surface from the dry conditions that

Aussies’ pace spearhead, Mitchell Starc

traditionally aid reverse swing. “It’s quite muggy and humid,” Starc said. “There has been talk about the rain ⁠we got over here. It’s probably not that typical dry part of the season just yet. “It could be interesting to see what the weather does over the next couple of days and then for the game as well.” Starc also praised fast bowler Nathan ⁠ E llis, who impressed during Australia’s one-day series in Zimbabwe

while several senior quicks were rested. Ellis helped lead the attack in the absence of Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood ⁠ a nd strengthened his case for a regular place in Australia’s one-day side. “He is really pushing his case as a lock as a pick in the ⁠one-day team, and no doubt he’ll look to perform in these three as well,” he said. The first Test of the three-match series begins in Durban on October 9. (Reuters)

RACHIN Ravindra, who dislocated his right shoulder during a promotional shoot, has been ruled out of the upcoming home T20I series against India. Ravindra’s rehabilitation is expected to take around six weeks, with a target of returning for the ODI series against India that starts on November 4. “We’re gutted for Rachin,” said New Zealand’s head coach Rob Walter. “He’s going to play a big role for us this summer so it’s important that he doesn’t rush his rehab, but we’re optimistic he’ll be back for the ODIs.” Ben Sears, who is recovering from an ankle injury, was also not considered for selection as New Zealand named a 16-member squad for the series starting October 22. Thirteen players from the squad that finished runner-up to India in this year’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup return, including Michael Bracewell and Adam Milne, who were later sidelined with injuries.

Rachin Ravindra dislocated his right shoulder during a promotional shoot

Milne last played for New Zealand against Zimbabwe over a year ago. He joins a strong pace attack consisting of Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes and Nathan Smith. New Zealand squad: Mitchell Santner (C), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Lockie Ferguson, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Kyle Jamiseon, Adam Milne, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Tim Seifert, Nathan Smith.

“It’s going to be awesome to welcome India to our shores and get summer underway,” said Walter.“ India is a quality team and a challenging opposition, so to take them on in our own conditions in front of Kiwi fans is really exciting. We hear most of the games are going to be sold out and it should make for some incredible occasions. “We’ve got a near full-strength squad that covers all bases and I’m excited to see how we compete against the current T20 world champions,” he added.

New Zealand vs India T20I series Match 1st T20I 2nd T20I 3rd T20I 4th T20I 5th T20I

Date October 22 October 24 October 27 October 30 November 1

Venue Hagley Oval, Christchurch Hagley Oval, Christchurch Hnry Stadium, Wellington Eden Park, Auckland Seddon Park, Hamilton

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 24, 2026

Powell proud of Kingsmen despite failing to lift title BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, (CMC) – Despite falling agonisingly short in their bid to capture their first Caribbean Premier League (CPL) title, captain of the Jamaica Kingsmen Rovman Powell said he is still proud of the team’s performance. The Kingsmen – the CPL’s newest franchise – went down by eight wickets to the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons in the final at Kensington Oval on Sunday, to give the Falcons their maiden title. Reflecting on the tournament, Powell said the team had shown resilience to bounce back from losing their first three matches to make

Jamaica Kingsmen captain Rovman Powell (second right) was full of praise for his troops after their loss to the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons in the CPL final

the playoffs and the final. While admitting he was disappointed not to have won the title, he said there were lots of positives to take away. “It’s a good feeling, to be honest. I think it’s a very hard-fought campaign for us. I’m so proud of the boys. I honestly feel it’s a proud journey for us. We have accomplished a lot of things. We set out to be in the finals, and when we came to the tournament, we wanted to see if we could progress all the way,” Powell said. “It was a slow start to the competition as we lost our first few games, but we built a little bit of momentum with our home crowd back home in Jamaica, and from there

the guys started to believe that we could actually play cricket. “We went to Trinidad, which is a difficult place to play cricket, and we played a very good game down there. That confidence kept building within the team. We knew that as soon as we squeezed into the last four of the competition how dangerous our team could be, and the guys just kept chipping in. “Credit has to be given to them throughout the entire competition. They listened to the leadership that myself and the head coach provided, and I am actually proud of the boys,” he added.

Teen sensation Jahmarie Nolan earns Trevor Benn’s all-round brilliance spurs GPF Officers to impressive victory first senior Reggae Boyz call-up KINGSTON, Jamaica, ( CMC) — In a move that signals a bright future for Jamaican football, Toronto FC forward Jahmarie Nolan has earned his first call-up to the senior Reggae Boyz squad for his explosive club form. The 16-year-old sensation has been named in Jamaica’s roster for the upcoming 2026 Concacaf Nations League fixtures, marking a meteoric rise for the former Mount Pleasant Football Academy star. Nolan has been in scintillating form since moving to Canada, adapting seamlessly to the professional environment at Toronto FC. His performances in the MLS NEXT Pro competition have forced selectors to take notice, with the teenager registering an impressive 10 goals and three assists in 22 appearances. While his club form has been noteworthy, his exploits on the international youth stage have been nothing short of prolific.

…Commander-in-Chief T20 Cup underway

Toronto FC forward Jahmarie Nolan

Nolan has been a talisman for the nation’s youth setups, scoring nine goals in just nine appearances for the under-20 side. Most notably, he played a pivotal role in Jamaica’s successful qualification for the 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup, finding the back of the net seven times in six games to help book the nation’s ticket to the global showpiece scheduled for November. The highly rated teenager now faces the ultimate test of his rapid development, joining the senior squad to train and compete alongside Jamaica’s established inter-

nationals. Coach Rudolph Speid and his technical staff will be eager to integrate Nolan into the setup, viewing the Nations League fixtures as the perfect environment for the young striker to acclimatise to the pace and physicality of senior international football. Nolan’s inclusion is an added boost for the Reggae Boyz, who had star winger Leon Bailey pulling out of the original squad due to injury. Norwich City winger Andre Brooks has also withdrawn from the squad due to injury.

THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) Officers began their defence of the Commander-in-Chief T20 Cup 2026 campaign on a winning note on Tuesday, whipping the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) in their opening fixture by 35 runs at the Police Sports Club Ground, Eve Leary. Winning the toss and electing to take first strike, GPF Officers reached a competitive 182 for five from their allotted 20 overs. Trevor Benn led the charge with an impressive 61 from just 30 deliveries, spanking two fours and four sixes. He received solid support from Michael Newland who provided a late boost with a quick-fire 21 from eight balls, including a four and a six, while Troy Benn contributed 20 from 14 deliveries, with two fours and a six. David Wilson was the pick of the GPS bowlers, claiming three for 23 from his four overs, while Dorian Grenion took one for 24, also from four overs. In reply, GPS reached 147 for nine when their 20

overs expired. Grenion led their resistance with 67 from 40 deliveries, striking nine fours and a six, while Martin Rajmangal contributed 30 from 30 balls, including three fours and two sixes. Trevor Benn completed an outstanding all-round performance by returning figures of 3 for 15 from

four overs. Captain Budhram was equally effective, claiming 3 for 22 from his four overs, while Troy Benn picked up 2 for 36. The GPF Officers were scheduled to be in action again on Wednesday’s second game of the day, taking on the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) following the morning clash between the Guyana Defence Force and the Guyana Prison Service.

Trevor Benn’s all-round brilliance powers GPF Officers to victory

Sir Curtly: ‘We always believed we could win CPL championship’ BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, ( CMC) – Antigua and Barbuda Falcons assistant coach and bowling consultant Sir Curtly Ambrose said he is not surprised by the team’s title-winning performance in the just concluded Caribbean Premier League. The Falcons captured their maiden CPL title on

Sunday night in dominant fashion with a comprehensive eight-wicket win over the Jamaica Kingsmen at Kensington Oval. While the accomplishment might come as a surprise to many, the legendary West Indies fast bowler said he always believed the team had the talent to go all the way.

“When we started the CPL tournament, not many gave us a chance to qualify, let alone win the championship. They called other franchises, but we were happy with that because being underdogs means we were under no pressure to perform. We knew that we had a great team that is capable of not only win-

Saint Lucia moves ahead with statue to honour Olympic hero Julien Alfred CASTRIES, St. Lucia, (CMC) — Plans to honour Olympic champion Julien Alfred are advancing, with the Government of Saint Lucia confirming that a statue celebrating her historic 2024 Paris Olympic Games triumph is now in the advanced planning and design stage. Alfred became Saint Lucia’s first Olympic gold medallist when she stormed to victory in the women’s 100 metres in a record time of 10.72 seconds. Her win placed the island nation on the global stage and ranks among the proudest moments in its sporting history. Minister for Education, Youth Development, Sports and Digital Transformation, Hon. Kenson Casimir, gave the update during Monday’s pre-Cabinet press briefing. He said architects, designers and technical officers from the ministries responsible for planning, infrastructure, tourism and sports have been working together on the project. A site has been identified and purchased in the vicinity

Sir Curtly Ambrose (left) celebrates with players Rahkeem Cornwall (centre) and Alzarri Joseph after winning the CPL title

ning games, but winning the championship, and for 2026, the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons are the CPL champions,” Sir Curtly said. It proved to be the perfect birthday gift for Sir Curtly, who celebrated his 63rd birthday on Monday. He said the commitment of the entire coaching staff

as well as the support of Antiguans and Barbudans contributed towards the team’s success. “Coach Nixon always stressed that: no pressure. We work hard, we play together as a team, we enjoy what we do and we reap the benefits. As Ibis [Steve Freeland] always says, ‘Believe nah man!’ We kept

believing, and we knew we had what it takes. “And, of course, our Prime Minister [Gaston Browne] is here, the other ministers of government are here, the Barbados Prime Minister [Mia Mottley] is here as well, so it’s a total celebration, and I’m loving it,” Sir Curtly said.

BM SOAT/Prem’s Electrical KTM looking to continue form at GMR&SC National Championships

Julien Alfred became Saint Lucia’s first Olympic gold medallist

of the Julien Alfred Highway. Several artistic concepts have already been prepared and are being assessed as the Government seeks a fitting representation of Saint Lucia’s first Olympic champion. “I believe Julien Alfred absolutely deserves it. I am very happy and excited about some of the designs I have seen,” Minister Casimir said. The proposed location is undergoing technical assessment, with road safety, visibility and public access among the considerations guiding the final decision.

Casimir said the statue is intended to become a national landmark where Saint Lucians and visitors can celebrate Alfred’s achievement. It will also serve as inspiration for children and young athletes who aspire to follow in her footsteps. The Government has already honoured several commitments in recognition of Alfred’s achievements, including financial support for her Olympic preparation. Work on the statue represents another commitment now being advanced.

The car is expected to be a fixture in group four

FRESH off their return from Barbados, the BM SOAT/Prem’s Electrical team is looking to continue its winning form this weekend in the opening round of the Guyana Motor Rac-

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ing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) National Championships. The team, part of the four-car contingent that represented Guyana at the fourth round of the GT Chal-

lenge series in Barbados, picked up one second-place finish and one first-place finish in the GTS Turbo Class over the weekend. Driver and team prin(Turn to page 22)

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026