PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali on Wednesday held bilateral discussions with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the sidelines of the 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), as regional leaders intensified diplomatic engagement with Washington on
security, economic cooperation and development priorities.
On the sidelines of the ongoing CARICOM meeting in St. Kitts and Nevis, President Irfaan Ali addressed questions from reporters regarding regional security.
He noted that over the past few years, Guyana has engaged in “expressive
amounts of bilateral revolution in social security” and emphasised ongoing efforts to coordinate on security challenges in the region.
“This is an engagement that has been ongoing,” he said, adding that the goal is to ensure better coordination among countries in addressing regional security issues.
When asked about which CARICOM countries would
be present at security meetings, President Ali admitted he was not fully aware of the attendance but stressed the importance of regional cooperation.
On comments made by the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago regarding support for Guyana in the event of threats from Venezuela, he said, “Our duty as leaders is to ensure we
work hard in the interests of our citizens, our countries, and our region. We have an inherent responsibility to support each other.” He underscored that Guyana would not stand by if the territorial integrity or sovereignty of any state were threatened.
On the topic of Cuba, President Ali explained Guyana’s approach to paying Cuban medical professionals directly.
“We need workers, and if the Cuban workforce can give us larger capacities and we hire those resources in accordance with our local labour laws and regulations, and we ensure that they are paid under the same conditions as any other worker… then I think you meet all the international criteria,” he said. He also noted that other Caribbean states facing pressure from the United States could consider adopting similar models.
President Ali spoke about the role of Trinidadian contractors in Guyana’s development, highlighting their contributions to transformative projects even before the country’s oil and gas sector took off.
He emphasised that bilateral engagement between Guyana and Trinidad should extend beyond energy, noting the importance of food security and the need to remove bureaucratic barriers to trade.
“I look forward to our bilateral being very progressive and future-driven,” he said, emphasising an open relationship with
CARICOM and welcoming private-sector participation on equal terms.
Reflecting on discussions with U.S. officials, including Secretary Rubio, President Ali described the talks as very positive, focused, and productive.
The conversations addressed regional security, including challenges posed by Venezuela, as well as Cuba.
He noted that while Cuba presents complex issues, a framework is needed to support development, democratisation, and humanitarian aid. On the latter, he clarified, “Nothing prevents humanitarian aid from going to Cuba. The challenge Cuba has is power, where do you store food if you don’t have energy?”
The high-level meeting formed part of a series of engagements between Caribbean leaders and the United States during the summit, which has drawn international attention amid evolving geopolitical and economic challenges facing the region.
Secretary Rubio travelled to St Kitts and Nevis specifically to participate in discussions with CARICOM leaders and reaffirm U.S. partnerships across the Caribbean.
The United States has increasingly viewed Guyana as a strategic partner, particularly as the country’s rapidly growing oil sector reshapes regional energy dynamics and strengthens its global economic profile.
REMINDING that oil and gas development must be leveraged to promote sustainable development in education, health and other key services, President Dr Irfaan Ali has said Guyana is positioning itself as a global model on how an emerging oil-producing nation can harness petroleum wealth while strengthening environmental stewardship, public services, and institutional stability.
Speaking on the country’s development trajectory earlier this week during an engagement with ExxonMobil executives, the Head of State framed oil and gas as a catalyst for a broader national transformation encompassing climate services, education, health care, and technology-driven governance.
“We want to showcase
to the world a development in oil and gas that is strategic in every form. One that is balanced, one that takes the environment with it in its growth and development, one that celebrates the environment in which it operates, one in which the transformational goals of the country are realised through the revenue from the sector, and one in which the sector grows out of other aspects of the economy that are critical for sustainability, which are climate services, environmental services, educational services, health services [and]technological services,” he said.
The president said the government’s objective is to ensure that the sector drives sustainable growth beyond hydrocarbons, embedding environmental and social considerations into economic expansion.
In positioning Guyana as a model for responsible resource development, Dr. Ali underscored the importance of governance, predictability, and investor confidence. He noted that stability and adherence to the rule of law are essential to managing a rapidly expanding petroleum sector.
“It requires strong leadership. It requires focused leadership. It also requires trust. You know, you cannot manage a sector like this if there is no trust.” He added: “This is a stable environment…here is where the rule of law applies, and here is where your investment is safe, sound
and protected, and that is how it will always be.”
Central to that strategy is the Government’s relationship with US oil major ExxonMobil, the lead operator in Guyana’s offshore Stabroek Block. The President made clear that the partnership remains fundamental to the country’s energy ambitions.
“I want to make it very clear, and I am unapologetic about this. Exxon is our partner, and we have to work and confront the opportunities of the future as partners. There is no way we are separating ourselves from each other.”
“We want to continue to build this trust. And no better way than to have the board, the entire structure, super structure, of Exxon here in country,” he added.
Beyond crude production, Dr. Ali pointed to natural gas development as the next phase in deepening economic impact and expanding
regional opportunity. He indicated that additional gas infrastructure could come on stream before the end of the decade.
“…by 2030 or before 2030 we can have our second gas project in Berbice online and ready to deliver opportunities for the people of Guyana and the people of this region,” the President said.
Just last week, the country hosted its fifth Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, bringing together regional and international industry leaders for the premier energy forum centred on innovation, collaboration, and sustainable development.
Under the theme “Building Tomorrow’s Future Today,” the conference attracted participation from companies representing 32 countries, reaffirming Guyana’s expanding role in the global energy landscape.
POLICE have launched an investigation into a fatal accident that claimed the life of a 69-year-old woman on Tuesday evening along Industry Public Road, East Coast Demerara.
According to the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the collision occurred at about 17:50hrs on the northern carriageway and involved motorcycle CR 523, ridden by a 29-year-old man of Owen Street, Kitty, and carrying a 28-year-old female pillion rider, as well as pedestrian Anjanie Mohabir of Block 8 Mon Repos, who later succumbed to her injuries.
Preliminary investi -
gations indicate that the motorcycle was travelling east along the roadway on the pedestrian walkway at a time when vehicles proceeding in the same direction had reportedly stopped to allow Mohabir to cross.
A collision subsequently occurred between the motorcycle and the pedestrian. All three individuals sustained injuries and were transported to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where they received medical attention.
Mohabir died while undergoing treatment. The pillion rider remains admitted for observation, while the motorcyclist was treated and later discharged.
Police said CCTV footage from the area has been identified and will be obtained as part of the ongoing probe. A breathalyser test administered to the driver detected no trace of alcohol.
The motorcycle has been impounded as investigations continue, and the driver is currently in police custody assisting investigators.
Authorities have urged road users to observe traffic regulations and exercise caution, particularly along busy public roadways, as investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident continue.
FARMERS across Guyana are being urged to embrace a new mobile application that could transform the way they work and safeguard their livelihoods.
Nandalall Bhawan, a farmer from region three, urged fellow farmers across the country to embrace the new technology as the app, ‘Farmers Connect GY’ was officially launched on Wednesday by the Ministry of Agriculture at the National Cultural Centre.
Bhawan was among the first to test the new app, describing it as “practical, easy to use and exactly what we need on the ground”.
The new platform includes an artificial intelligence feature that allows farmers to upload photos of plant diseases and receive immediate suggestions on likely causes and possible
treatments, replacing slower, traditional reporting and testing channels.
“Many farmers in Guyana still face setbacks because they lack access, took or refuse to embrace modern technologies that could increase their production.”
“This initiative represents more than just a mobile application. It signals a new direction for agriculture in Guyana, I see this as a great initiative, one step ahead in positioning agriculture as modern, progressive sector, and ensuring that technology reaches every field and every community the farmers can give us confidence that we are not farming alone. We are supported, connected and equipped to succeed,”
Bhawan added. It will also enable farmers to report flooding, blocked canals and other field-level
Farmers were urged to embrace the new application. Many on Wednesday took the opportunity to sign up and engage with staff on how to use the new platform
infrastructure issues, giving the Ministry of Agriculture and Water Users’ Associations timely information to guide drainage, irrigation, and flood response.
Speaking at the launch, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha said the initiative was a defining moment in the country’s agricultural modernisation drive and a key pillar of President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s broader digital Guyana agenda.
“For too long, farmers
have faced challenges accessing real time pricing, receiving timely advisory services and connecting efficiently with buyers and support agencies. This app will change that,” Mustapha said.
He added: “It is designed to close long-standing gaps in information, communication and market access.”
The new application will complement the Agriculture Information System (AIS) that was launched back in 2024, allowing for greater in-
tegration of data, improving coordination and advancing extension service delivery.
“The farmers connect app, empowers farmers directly. Over the past years, the Ministry has worked assiduously to build centralised farmers database, which is now integrated with this platform to ensure accurate and up to date information across all regions,” he said.
Mustapha reminded that Guyana is the only country in the world capable of feeding itself across all seven major food groups, including meat, fish, fruits, vegetables, dairy, plant-based proteins, and starches.
He said the government’s ambition now extends be -
yond self-sufficiency, with Guyana positioning itself as the main food producer in the hemisphere and a driving force in the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) plan to cut the regional food import bill by 25 per cent by 2030.
The platform will provide real-time data on market prices, weather forecasts, climate conditions, pest and disease outbreaks, and soil characteristics across all ten regions.
Farmers will be able to use soil maps to determine which crops are best suited to their specific locations, access extension advice instantly and connect directly with buyers, agro-processors and exporters.
for Guyana’s national Digital Identity Card has begun at the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) Puruni Mining Station, expanding the government’s push to bring modern identification services to remote mining communities and hinterland regions.
The initiative, coordinated through the Ministry of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation, allows residents and miners operating in the interior to register for the secure digital credential without travelling to coastal administrative centres.
The Digital Identity Card, issued by the national Digital Identity Card Registry, is designed to provide a single, secure form of identification enabling access to a wide
range of government and private-sector services both online and in person.
The system uses biometric authentication and digital verification to simplify transactions while strengthening data security and identity protection.
Officials said persons seeking enrolment at the Puruni location must present original documentation, including a Guyanese birth certificate, a Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) identification card or valid Guyana passport, proof of address, and where applicable, a marriage certificate.
The rollout to Puruni represents part of a broader national effort to ensure inclusive access to identification services, particularly for citizens working in Guyana’s interior mining districts where administrative services are often limited.
Government has been gradually expanding enrolment beyond central offices as part of a nationwide digital transformation programme aimed at modernising public services.
The electronic ID card system began phased rollout in 2025, initially targeting public sector workers before expanding to the wider population.
Authorities have said regional and mobile registration drives are critical to ensuring miners, hinterland residents and riverine communities are not excluded from the emerging digital economy.
The Digital Identity Card forms a central pillar of Guyana’s broader e-government agenda, intended to streamline interactions with state agencies, enable secure digital signatures and reduce paperwork in everyday transactions.
GUYANA’S emergence as a major oil-producing nation has sparked global attention, intense debate, and enormous expectations.
Yet, amid discussions about production targets, revenues, and infrastructure, one question has consistently lingered: Will the country’s oil wealth ultimately translate into lasting human development?
The recent announcement by ExxonMobil of a US$100 million investment in a national science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) initiative suggests an encouraging step in the right direction.
President Irfaan Ali has described the initiative as “transformational”, and rightly so.
For a country still early in its petroleum journey, directing substantial resources towards education and skills development signals an understanding that oil alone cannot secure prosperity.
Human capital, not hydrocarbons, will determine whether Guyana thrives in 2050 and beyond.
The proposed STEM centre, to be constructed on the campus of the University of Guyana, represents more than a new building.
Its placement is symbolic and strategic, exposing younger students to an academic environment designed to nurture innovation, curiosity, and ambition.
If properly implemented, the initiative could help correct long-standing weaknesses in mathematics and science education that have limited workforce readiness across multiple sectors.
Equally important is the government’s decision to begin teacher and facilitator training even before construction is completed. Infrastructure without human capacity risks becoming an empty monument.
By prioritising educator development, policymakers appear to recognise that meaningful educational reform begins in classrooms, not conference rooms.
This investment also complements recent efforts such as the commissioning of the
Guyana Technical Training College, which aims to expand technical and vocational opportunities locally and regionally.
Together, these initiatives suggest a broader strategy: Preparing Guyanese citizens not only for oil and gas employment, but for diversified economic growth long after petroleum revenues decline.
The editorial significance of ExxonMobil’s involvement lies in the evolving definition of partnership.
The government has repeatedly emphasised that the company is viewed not merely as an operator extracting resources, but as a strategic collaborator in national development.
Such a relationship carries both promise and responsibility. Investments in education, environmental stewardship, and programmes linked to initiatives like the Global Biodiversity Alliance help demonstrate that resource extraction and sustainable development need not be mutually exclusive.
Still, optimism must be tempered with
vigilance. Educational investments must be transparent, inclusive, and aligned with national priorities rather than corporate branding exercises.
The success of this initiative will ultimately be measured not by the size of the funding announcement but by improved student outcomes, stronger technical competence, and expanded opportunities for ordinary Guyanese.
ExxonMobil Chairman and CEO Darren Woods noted that offshore production should create progress onshore, a principle that should guide every aspect of Guyana’s oil era.
The country now stands at a critical juncture: It can either allow resource wealth to deepen dependency or leverage it to build a knowledge-driven society.
If managed wisely, investments like this STEM initiative could help Guyana achieve something far more valuable than oil revenues, a generation capable of shaping its own future.
MORE than 50 Guyanese businesses have taken a significant step towards expanding their regional footprint after participating in a targeted business-to-business (B2B) networking forum designed to strengthen commercial ties with Barbadian distributors ahead of AgroFest 2026.
The engagement, facilitated by the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest) and hosted at the Accra Beach Hotel in Barbados, aimed to create practical and sustainable partnerships between Guyanese producers and Barbadian distributors across retail, hospitality and food-service industries.
The session formed part of preparations for AgroFest 2026, scheduled for February 27 to March 1, positioning participating companies to use the regional agricultural exhibition not only as a showcase but as a gateway to long-term market expansion and distribution opportunities.
Speaking at the forum, Chief Operations Officer of GO-Invest Tebogah Christian underscored the importance of deepening intra-regional trade, noting that while Guyana and Barbados have maintained decades of commercial relations, the full potential of regional commerce remains largely unrealised.
He said strengthening supply chains and building practical business linkages would help create a more dynamic trading relationship while advancing broader Caribbean economic integration goals under the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) framework.
The B2B initiative forms part of GO-Invest’s wider strategy to promote export-led growth, improve market intelligence and facilitate structured partnerships aimed at expanding Guyana’s non-oil exports throughout the Caribbean.
Officials noted that the
Participants engage in discussions during the forum, gaining key insights into Barbadian consumer preferences, regulatory standards, packaging requirements and distribution logistics, with several talks expected to progress into supply agreements and formal distribution partnerships at AgroFest
effort aligns with the Vision 2030 development agenda championed by President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, which prioritises agricultural expansion, value-added production and stronger regional
market access. Investments outlined in the 2026 National Budget, including improved drainage and irrigation systems, enhanced farm-to-market access, agro-processing incentives and expanded
cold-storage capacity, are intended to transition Guyana toward competitive, export-ready agro-industrial production.
Participants said the forum provided valuable
insight into Barbadian consumer preferences, regulatory standards, packaging requirements and distribution logistics. Several discussions are expected to advance into supply agreements and formal distribution partnerships during AgroFest.
Among officials attending were Special Envoy for Barbados to Guyana and Suriname Alphea Wiggins; General Manager of the Guyana Marketing Corporation, Teshawna Lall; Consular Officer at the Guyana Consulate in Barbados Sandy Williams; and Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Export Barbados Andrea Burgess. As Guyanese companies prepare for a strong showing at AgroFest 2026, officials say the initiative signals a deliberate push to expand regional trade, strengthen non-oil export performance and accelerate private-sector growth through deeper economic integration across the Caribbean.
AT the beginning of the 21st century in Guyana, Kaieteur News was still maintaining a healthy lead over Stabroek News (SN). There were national occurrences that kept both papers in demand.
These included the birth of the AFC; the PNC’s electoral loss in 2005; Donald Ramotar’s minority government; the APNU-AFC 2015 election victory, and the five months of election rigging.
The year 2020 marked a deadly decline in the journalistic integrity of SN, and from there on, SN slid so deeply into anti-governmental journalism that the best description was an atavistic reversion to the anti-Jaganism of the newspapers owned by the Mulatto/Creole class (MCC) in the 1960s – Argosy, Chronicle, and Evening News. In many ways, SN from 2020 onwards looked identical to those papers.
Why this insane descent into irrational anti-PPPism? I will repeat once more that no society will grasp the meaning of its past and present sociology and political economy if its intellectuals do not offer the society a class analysis of social phenomena. To understand the depth that SN went to denigrate the PPP government from 2020 onwards, one has to understand the class relationship SN as an MCC entity had with both the PNC and the AFC when they came to power in 2015.
David DeCaires and David Granger shared a close middle-class friendship long before Granger dreamt of becoming a politician. DeCaires knew the Granger family well, and one of Mr. Granger’s daughters became a senior journalist at SN. When Mr. Granger’s monthly magazine, Guyana Review, could no longer sustain itself, Mr. DeCaires bought the copyright and printed it in SN as a quarterly supplement.
Co-founder Miles Fitzpatrick’s second closest friend after DeCaires himself, Hugh Chomondeley, was the father of senior government minister and AFC bigwig Cathy Hughes. Mr. Chomondeley was a life-long buddy of Mr. Fitzpatrick. Both DeCaires and Fitzpatrick were close friends of Drs. Clive Thomas and Rupert Roopnaraine. Mr. Fitzpatrick and his wife were very close with Dr. Thomas’s first wife, Alice.
Just look at the graphic facts. SN had long-standing connections with the President of Guyana, Mr. Granger and three senior figures in government –Mrs. Hughes, Thomas and Roopnaraine. Mr. Timothy Jonas, a partner in the law firm of DeCaires and Fitzpatrick, was a foundation member of the AFC. The overlapping class relationships here were obvious to any political observer. What
happened in 2015 was that the entitlement desire of the MCC in the 1950s had come alive in the 2015 elections.
The MCC became mentally jaded when Forbes Burnham took the strategic support the MCC gave him in the 1960s only to ditch the MCC after 1970. The quarrel between the MCC and Burnham was over the MCC’s obsession with entitlement. They had to be the successor to the colonial state. For some interesting notes on the fallout between the MCC and Burnham, see the book, By Tyrone Ferguson, “Management of Guyana’s Political Economy, 1965- 1985.”
The remnants of the MCC were still influential in Guyana. First they tried their hand with the WPA in the 1970s, then with the AFC. Eventually the MCC came to power in 2015. The loss of power in 2020 was a laceration of the psyche of both the MCC and SN. The PPP had come back in power, and that was completely unacceptable for the MCC. From August 2020, SN decided that it would not accept the non-Christian Indians in power in Guyana once more.
The first attempt to derail the Ali presidency occurred in September 2020 when SN and the Guyana Human Rights Association tried to whip up racial frenzy by accepting the PNC’s theory that Indians in Cotton Tree went wild in celebrating the PPP’s victory, became over-zealous, and committed the racially inspired murder of two cousins. In fact, the boys were killed in a drug deal gone sour.
Brendon DeCaires and his sister, Isabelle, took over the newspaper in 2020 and, together with anti-PPP hater, editor, Anand Persaud, shaped the SN into a propaganda theatre against the Ali presidency. This was the vendetta of the MCC against Indian leadership of the government living through the pages of SN.
Isabelle DeCaires was insanely hostile to the PPP. She criticised on one occasion the clothes the president wore. She described Guyana as a flawed democracy, and she co-authored a letter to President Ali demanding that Guyana get out of oil production. Ms. DeCaires was dedicated to preserving the MCC in Guyana. She converted the house of her father, named Moray House. It held a monthly social gathering for MCC personalities and a monthly anti-government symposium. I hope SN remains alive but without the control of the DeCaires children and Mr. Anand Persaud.
I sincerely hope the paper survives.
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.
THE Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation and the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) of a new Air Traffic Control Tower at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) in Timehri, East Bank Demerara.
Bidding will be conducted under the National Competitive Bidding procedures as outlined in the Procurement Act 2003 and associ-
ated regulations and is open to all eligible and qualified proposers.
The acquisition of the RFP document begins on Friday, February 27, 2026, with a pre-proposal conference scheduled for Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 10:00hrs at the GCAA headquarters, located at Lot 1 Craig and Middleton Streets, Campbellville, Georgetown.
Proposals must be submitted in a plain envelope, bearing no identification of the proposer, and clearly marked on the top left-hand corner: “Request for Proposal for Engineering, Procure -
ment, Construction (EPC) of a New Air Traffic Control Tower at Timehri (CJIA), East Bank Demerara, Guyana.”
All submissions must be delivered to the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board, Ministry
of Finance, Main & Urquhart Streets, Georgetown, on or before 9:00hrs on Thursday, April 16, 2026. Proposals will be opened in the presence of proposers or their representatives who attend. No electronic bidding will be permitted, and late submissions will be rejected.
Interested parties may obtain further information from the GCAA during office hours, Monday through Thursday between 09:00hrs and 16:00hrs, and Friday between 09:00hrs and 15:00hrs, starting February 27, 2026. The project is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to modernise aviation infrastructure and enhance air traffic management capabilities at Guyana’s primary international gateway.
THE Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) has dismissed recent allegations made by Opposition Member of Parliament, Ganesh Mahipaul, that residents of Good Hope Phase Four on the East Coast of Demerara lack access to water and that no remedial efforts have been undertaken.
In a statement addressing a video circulated on social media, GWI clarified that Good Hope Phase Four is a developing housing scheme that has not yet been integrated into the corporation’s water network. The community was originally planned to be connected to the Mon Repos Water Treatment Plant, the nearest potable water source. However, GWI noted that connecting the area to Mon Repos would have significantly depleted the plant’s supply, reducing service hours for existing residents in Mon Repos and surrounding areas. To provide a sustainable solution, GWI began drilling a dedicated well for Good Hope Phase Four. While the first well faced geological challenges and ultimately failed, the corporation has initiated drilling a second well to ensure reliable potable water access. GWI further confirmed that the transmission network has already been installed, and upon successful completion of the well, residents will benefit from a consistent water supply.
GWI reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all Guyanese have access to potable water and called for accurate representation of ongoing development works in public discourse.
MINISTER of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond has issued a firm directive to senior supervisory ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), declaring that the success of ongoing policing reforms in 2026 will depend largely on the leadership, accountability and performance of Inspectors across the country.
Delivering the feature address at the opening of the GPF Inspectors’ Conference on Wednesday, the Minister stressed that the gathering was not ceremonial but operational, signalling a decisive phase in the transformation of the Force as Guyana undergoes rapid national development.
“You serve at a defining moment in our nation’s history,” Walrond told officers, noting that as the country expands economically and socially, security systems must evolve at the same pace. She emphasised that reform would not succeed through policy announcements alone but through
stronger, more consistent supervision at the station level.
Held under the theme “Modern Policing for a Modern Nation: Integrating Technology, Innovation, and Leadership to Strengthen Public Safety and Trust,” the two-day conference focused on strengthening operational leadership and improving service delivery within the Force.
The Minister referenced President Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s eight-pillar framework for transforming policing, which includes justice system integration, digital policing and enhanced community partnerships.
She warned that the initiatives would only succeed through effective execution by supervisory ranks.
According to Minister Walrond, Inspectors play a
critical role in maintaining standards, ensuring investigations produce complete and court-ready case files, enforcing disciplined use of technology, and maintaining consistent and impartial traffic and border enforcement.
She cautioned that the GPF can no longer operate reactively, warning that national growth brings heightened security risks and that weak enforcement creates opportunities for organised crime.
“In 2026, your leadership must be visible, measurable and consistent,” the Minister said, adding that
public investment in policing must translate into tangible outcomes such as reduced crime, faster response times and improved public confidence.
Quoting Standing Order No. 6, she reminded officers of their statutory responsibility to enforce discipline and uphold professional standards, stressing that corruption within the Force represents a national security threat rather than a minor infraction.
Walrond also underscored the importance of protecting vulnerable groups, directing that cases
involving domestic violence and sexual offences be handled urgently and with dignity toward victims.
She concluded by stating that the policy framework, resources and strategic direction for modern policing are already in place, and that the remaining challenge is effective implementation.
“Performance will not be measured in effort. It will be measured in results,” she told Inspectors, urging active supervision, consistent enforcement, proactive disruption of organised crime and zero tolerance for corruption.
SENIOR leadership
of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Wednesday outlined key administrative reforms and national crime-fighting strategies as the Force’s annual Inspectors’ Conference continued at Eve Leary, with a strong focus on improving operational effectiveness and professional standards.
Deputy Commissioner ‘Administration’ Ravindradat Budhram and Deputy Commissioner ‘Law Enforcement’ Wendell Blanhum delivered detailed presentations during the
morning session of the two-day conference, addressing supervisory ranks drawn from divisions across the country.
Budhram’s presentation centred on administrative issues and institutional accountability, highlighting the importance of adherence to Stores Regulations and reinforcing the Force’s Strategic Pillars, particularly those focused on developing personnel, strengthening partnerships and promoting professionalism. He stressed that efficient administrative systems remain essential to ensuring transparency, or-
Senior officers from across the country are participating in the conference, which forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen operational effectiveness and elevate administrative standards within the Guyana Police Force
ganisational discipline and improved service delivery.
Blanhum, meanwhile, provided an overview of the current crime land-
proactive operations and stronger inter-agency collaboration are central to ongoing efforts to reduce criminal activity and enhance public safety.
scape, outlining prevailing trends and operational challenges facing law enforcement nationwide. He emphasised that intelligence-led policing,
The conference, being held at the Police Officers’ Mess Annexe, Eve Leary, began Wednesday and is scheduled to conclude on Thursday, February 26. It is being conducted under the theme “Modern Policing for a Modern Nation: Integrating Technology and Leadership to Strengthen Public Safety and Trust.”
Deputy Commissioner ‘Administration’, Ravindradat Budhram
Senior officers participating in the sessions are examining strategies aimed at modernising policing practices, strengthening supervision and improving administrative standards, as part of broader efforts by the GPF to build greater public confidence and deliver more effective law enforcement services nationwide.
Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo (third from left) with other speakers and stakeholders at this year’s the World Sustainable Development Summit being held in India
GUYANA’S sustainability strides and the leaders behind them have once again been highlighted on the international stage.
After recently receiving one of the world’s highest sustainability honours, Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo delivered the inaugural address at the World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS) at the Taj Palace in New Delhi, urging global leaders to confront mounting climate and development challenges with renewed TURN TO PAGE 13
GUYANA’S President
Dr. Irfaan Ali and Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar are expected to meet United States (US) President Donald Trump in Miami on March 7.
Both regional leaders confirmed the meeting on the sidelines of the ongoing meeting of Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Heads of Government in St. Kitts and Nevis.
“It’s a meeting dealing with security matters, it’s dealing with some
of the challenges in the region, and to see how we can coordinate better in relation to those challenges,” President Ali told reporters.
Security, the Guyanese leader said, has been a key focus in the growing bilateral relationship between his country and the US.
Meanwhile, the Trinidadian Prime Minister told reporters that the invitation to attend the meeting with President Trump was extended during bilateral talks with visiting US Secretary of
State Marco Rubio. During his engagements at the CARICOM Summit, Rubio has reportedly called for deeper cooperation on tackling criminal gangs. Other countries in Latin America are reportedly part of the Miami engagement. There has been no confirmation that other Caribbean leaders will attend. This meeting comes just weeks after US forces recently captured and overthrew Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro. (Credit:
PRIME Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips on Wednesday met with executives of AtlasIntel, a global data intelligence and analytics firm, to discuss integrating advanced data analytics into national decision-making and strategic planning.
The delegation, led by Chief Executive Officer Mr. Andrei Roman and including Mr. Yuri Sanchez and Mr. Arick Wierson, highlighted AtlasIntel’s expertise in big data, social and market research, and strategic forecasting. The meeting focused on leveraging these capabilities to support sustainable growth, innovation, and insight-driven policy development in Guyana.
Held at the Office of the Prime Minister on Camp Street, the engagement underscores the government’s commitment to modernising governance through technology and data-informed strategies.
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ambition and practical solutions.
The global summit, hosted annually by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), is one of the world’s leading platforms for dialogue on climate action, sustainability, and green development.
The event brings together heads of government, policymakers, scientists, private sector leaders, and civil society representatives to advance solutions to global environmental challenges. During the opening session, remarks were also delivered by Bhupender Yadav, India’s Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, along with other international leaders and climate stakeholders.
Speaking at the event, themed “Transformations through Vision, Voices and Values for Sustainable Development,” the Vice-President took the opportunity to highlight some of Guyana’s major developments in the sector. Reflecting on Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy, he explained, “Guyana is about the size of the United Kingdom. Eighty-six per cent of it is covered with primary forests. We have one of the lowest deforestation rates in the world.”
He stressed that Guyana has demonstrated the economic viability of forest carbon, adding, “We have been able to prove that it is a good quality product. We sold 30 per cent of our forest carbon for $750 million US dollars. We have one per cent of global forests that is tropical forests, and we have been able to raise $750 million US dollars from 30 per cent of our forest carbon. If you were to extrapolate, that would be about $2.5 to $3 billion dollars for entire forests.”
Highlighting the importance of strong frameworks and systems, Vice-President Jagdeo added that Guyana has successfully entered formal compliance markets. “We have been able, be-
cause of the quality of our forest carbon, to sell two million credits into the Curacao market, which is the first formal compliance market.”
Dr. Jagdeo also highlighted the launch of the Global Biodiversity Alliance, which was launched in Guyana in July of last year and aims to create actionable conservation strategies, promote nature-positive business, and secure financing to protect ecosystems.
Sharing insight into the alliance with other international leaders, the Vice-President said, “Guyana just launched a global biodiversity alliance. We have 69 members. It was launched in July last year. TERI is one of those members and we believe that we can encourage many countries and organizations to get on board,” he said.
Turning to the intersection of development and energy production, he emphasised that sustainability and oil production are not mutually exclusive and can both be sustained. “We are going to be producing about 1.5 to 2 million barrels of oil within the next three years per day,” the Vice-President further added, “We want to prove that you can do that and still have a sustainable strategy within the country. And we are doing it practically on the ground and I believe in many countries of the world if you have strong national leadership, enlightened leadership, you have got a focus like here in India you can tackle a lot of the climate issues.”
Beyond forest conservation, biodiversity and energy, Dr. Jagdeo’s address also focused on a number of other critical areas, including the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in sustainable development and the need for developing countries to integrate emerging technologies into national planning frameworks. He underscored the importance of ensuring that smaller states are not left behind in the evolving global
development landscape.
In 2025, Dr. Jagdeo was named among a select group of just 18
global figures to receive the prestigious Sustainable Development Leadership Award, one of
the summit’s highest honours, recognising transformative leadership in climate action, environmental protection, and sustainable development.
THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) joined senior military leaders from across the
Americas and beyond at the inaugural Western Hemisphere Chiefs of Defence Confer -
ence held in Washington, D.C. earlier this month, underscoring Guyana’s growing en-
gagement in regional security cooperation.
Colonel General Staff, Kenlloyd Roberts,
represented Guyana at the high-level forum on behalf of Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan.
The conference, hosted from February 11–12 by the Joint Chiefs of Staff, brought together defence chiefs and senior military officials from 33 nations across the hemisphere.
Participants included 13 member states of CARICOM, alongside representatives from Latin America, Canada and several European countries with territories in the region.
According to information released, the forum served as a strategic platform for examining key hemispheric security concerns, including threats posed by foreign terrorist organisations, transnational criminal networks, cyber risks and other challenges affecting regional stability and prosperity.
Discussions placed strong emphasis on building institutional trust among defence partners, expanding intelligence-sharing mechanisms and maintaining consistent engagement to address evolving security threats. Military leaders highlighted the need for coordinated responses grounded in cooperation and mutual confidence.
Guyana’s participation reflects its continued commitment to proactive regional engagement and collaboration on collective defence matters. The
GDF noted that involvement in forums of this level strengthens strategic relationships while allowing the country to contribute to broader initiatives aimed at enhancing security and stability throughout the hemisphere.
The conference marked another step in deepening defence diplomacy, as regional militaries seek greater coordination in confronting increasingly complex and transnational security challenges.
The Ministry of Housing and Water has intensified efforts to accelerate the processing of government land titles following high-level discussions with the Land Registry aimed at resolving operational challenges caused by a surge in new housing developments.
The engagement, led by Housing Minister Collin Croal and Minister within the Ministry Vanessa Benn, took place recently as officials sought solutions to growing backlogs linked to the rapid expansion of state housing schemes.
The ministerial delegation, which included
Director of Operations
Denise King-Tudor, Head of the Corporate Legal Secretariat Hannifah Jordan,
and Head of the Conveyance Department
Esther Stephen, met with Registrar of Lands Rosalie Robertson,
along with Assistant Registrars Wendella Austin-Ceasar and Michelle Richards-Lord. Discussions centred
on the sharp increase in Certificates of Title generated by accelerated housing development programmes undertaken by the Central Housing and Planning Authority. Officials said the expansion has placed significant operational pressure on the Land Registry, contributing to longer processing times.
The Registrar confirmed that additional registration areas have been activated and working hours extended to prioritise government-related titles. Currently, processing takes approximately three months, but officials expect timelines to improve once the
existing backlog is reduced.
Following the meeting, ministers toured the Registry’s facilities, where they observed operational constraints, including challenges related to document storage and workflow capacity.
The Housing Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to continued collaboration with the Land Registry, emphasising that improving efficiency in title processing remains critical to ensuring timely land ownership documentation for citizens benefiting from new housing schemes.
MAJOR foundation work has officially commenced on the Hilton-branded 256room Georgetown Seafront Resort and Convention Centre, a GYD $63 billion investment poised to transform Guyana’s tourism and business events landscape. The project, secured under a 2025 Investment Agreement between Go-Invest and the international developers, marks one of the largest hospitality developments currently underway in the country.
The resort and convention centre will significantly expand Georgetown’s capacity to host large-scale regional and international events, supporting business tourism, increasing visitor arrivals, and generating hundreds of
jobs across construction, hospitality, and related service sectors.
The development is expected to create over 450 positions during its construction and operational phases while stimulating economic linkages across retail, transportation, and other supporting industries.
“This investment is not incidental, it is intentional,” said Peter Ramsaroop, MP, Chief Investment Officer and
Head of Go-Invest.
“Under His Excellency’s Vision 2030, we are building an economy by design, expanding our tourism infrastructure, deepening private-sector participation, and positioning Guyana as a premier destination for global business and international events. The commencement of major foundation works reflects investor confidence in Guyana’s trajectory and our gov-
ernment’s disciplined approach to sustainable, non-oil growth.”
Set along the Georgetown seafront, the full-service facility will feature 256 rooms, over 2,000-seat convention facilities, multiple food and beverage outlets, specialty restaurants and lounges, retail spaces, and a potential seawall restaurant.
Additional amenities include a kids’ zone, fitness centre, tennis
and paddle courts, a swimming pool with pool bar and grill, a spa and wellness centre, and a social club, positioning the resort as both a luxury accommodation and events destination.
Developers have committed to full compliance with Guyana’s regulatory framework and robust local content requirements to maximise participation by Guyanese businesses and workers, strengthen domestic capacity in construction and hospitality, and ensure the project delivers lasting economic benefits.
The groundbreaking follows a sod-turning ceremony attended by His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, which formally launched construction activities and highlighted the government’s commitment
to expanding national tourism infrastructure. Strategic investment discussions in late 2025 in Qatar between Go-Invest executives and project leaders accelerated the implementation timeline, reflecting Guyana’s growing appeal as a destination for transformative, largescale investments.
When completed, the Hilton-branded Georgetown Seafront Resort and Convention Centre will not only enhance Guyana’s hospitality and convention capabilities but also serve as a visible testament to the country’s economic diversification and Vision 2030 objectives, where policy, performance, and strategic investment converge to shape the nation’s future.
Education
Sonia Parag on Tuesday underscored the government’s continued investment in hinterland education as she inspected the construction of the new Jawalla Secondary School and met with students and teachers at Waramadong Primary School in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).
During a site visit to Jawalla, the minister expressed satisfaction with the pace of construction on the $231.9 million secondary school, describing the proj-
ect as a key intervention to reduce overcrowding and improve learning conditions for students transitioning from Primary Top.
Accompanied by education officials, including the Deputy Chief Education Officer for Amerindian
and Hinterland Education Development, as well as the project’s contractor and consultant, Parag noted that significant progress had been recorded in recent months.
“It’s very important that we have students from the Primary Top come into this
During her visit to Waramadong in the Upper Mazaruni, Minister of Education Sonia Parag met with students and teachers and committed to addressing concerns raised by the school community, including the need for improved internet connectivity
school and occupy this space. We want to remove the overcrowding that’s happening at schools right now; that’s one of the main reasons why we embarked on this project,” she said.
The minister encouraged the contractor to accelerate remaining works to ensure the facility is completed ahead of the September 2026 academic term.
While acknowledging that finishing works are still required, she assured regional
tional Grade Six Assessment (NGSA).
Addressing Grade Six pupils, the minister encouraged them to remain focused as they prepare for upcoming mock examinations and the final assessment in April, assuring them that government resources are being directed to support their success.
“We want to see you do well and we will continue to invest in you because you are the future of our country,” she told the students.
Minister of Education Sonia Parag on Tuesday underscored the government’s continued investment in hinterland education as she inspected the construction of the new Jawalla Secondary School
officials that measures would be implemented to keep the project on schedule, with the Ministry of Education continuing close monitoring.
Later, during her visit to Waramadong in the Upper Mazaruni, Parag met with students and teachers and committed to addressing concerns raised by the school community, including the need for improved internet connectivity.
Constructed about three years ago, Waramadong Primary currently serves approximately 154 students, several of whom are preparing to sit this year’s Na-
Parag also commended teachers for their dedication despite the challenges of working in remote communities, describing their role as one of the most honourable professions as they shape the nation’s future.
The outreach formed part of the ministry’s ongoing engagement with hinterland communities aimed at strengthening school infrastructure, expanding access to resources and ensuring equitable, quality education for students regardless of geographic location.
THE trial concerning alleged manipulation of Guyana’s 2020 General and Regional Elections faced a temporary setback on Wednesday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court after one of the defence lawyers, Eusi Anderson, failed to attend.
The proceedings went ahead with voir dire testimony, though cross-examination could not continue without him.
Several prosecution witnesses were present and prepared to provide their accounts, but their testimony could only be observed by other members of the defence team while Anderson remained absent.
The court sought to balance the need for progress with the rights of the defendants during this delay.
King’s Counsel Darshan Ramdhanie, leading the prosecution, raised concerns over repeated interruptions in the trial and requested that the defence team be allowed to act jointly for all defendants.
The aim, he explained, was to prevent a single absent lawyer from stalling the entire case.
Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty presided over Wednesday’s proceedings, which are set to continue today with further testimony.
Those charged include former Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield; former Deputy CEO Roxanne Myers; former Region Four Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo; former Health Minister Volda Lawrence; and People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) member Carol Smith-Joseph.
The list also includes former Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) staffers Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Denise Babb-Cummings, and Michelle Miller.
The defendants collectively face 19 charges, in-
cluding conspiracy to defraud and misconduct in public office. Each has entered a plea of not guilty and was released on significant cash bail.
Since the allegations arise from the same set of events, the cases have been consolidated for trial, which is expected to continue throughout the week.
The prosecution maintains that each accused played a “critical role” in attempting to inflate votes for the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) coalition and reduce votes for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).
Following the contentious March 2, 2020, vote, Guyana’s judiciary was inundated with applications and appeals from various political actors over the electoral process.
The dispute lasted five months, culminating in a national recount overseen by GECOM and a Caribbean Community (CARICOM) delegation.
The recount confirmed the PPP/C’s victory, with 233,336 votes compared to 217,920 for the APNU+AFC, leading to the swearing-in of President Dr. Irfaan Ali on August 2, 2020.
The initial results, announced by former CEO Lowenfield, had controversially declared an APNU+AFC victory, reporting 171,825 votes for the coalition and 166,343 for the PPP/C.
In the aftermath, criminal charges were filed against the defendants, and GECOM terminated the contracts of Lowenfield, Myers, and Mingo in August 2021 after the allegations of fraud surfaced.
The Presidential Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the events of the 2020 General and Regional Elections have found that there
was collusion and collaboration between senior GECOM officials to divert votes to the APNU +AFC instead of safeguarding and preserving the integrity of the electoral system.
AT 100 years old, Beatrice Elizabeth Johnson, affectionately known as “Cousin Vye,” has become a living testament to a life defined by resilience, love, and faith. The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s Difficult Circumstances Unit (DCU) honoured the centenarian on Wednesday, celebrating her remarkable milestone.
Cousin Vye, née Burnette, fondly recalled her childhood days at St. Jude’s Primary School in Lichfield and the simple skills that shaped her life - cooking, sewing, and hairstyling - which she generously used to nurture both her family and wider community. She later married Mr. Johnson and relocated to Mackenzie, where he was employed by the bauxite company, raising a large family together.
Her legacy now spans generations: seven children - three of whom she has outlived - four stepchildren, 18 grandchildren, 44 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren, all benefiting from her guidance and unwavering love.
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security’s Difficult Circumstances Unit (DCU) honoured the centenarian, Beatrice Elizabeth Johnson on Wednesday, celebrating her remarkable milestone
Following her husband’s passing, Cousin Vye migrated to the United States with her children, residing there for many years before returning to her beloved Lichfield. Today, she is lovingly cared for by her daughter and a dedicated caregiver.
Her faith remains the cornerstone of her life. Even at 100, Cousin Vye reads her
Bible daily and often shares that prayer has been her source of strength throughout the century.
The DCU’s visit highlighted not just her longevity, but a life marked by devotion, resilience, and the quiet impact of one woman’s commitment to family and community—a story cherished by all who know her.
TWO former security guards attached to the National Media and Publishing Company, publisher of Kaieteur News, have now been formally committed to stand trial.
The charge relates to the murder of a homeless man who was beaten to death at the newspaper’s Saffon Street compound in Georgetown.
The committal was made recently by Senior Magistrate Leron Daly at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, following the completion of a paper committal hearing.
Tony Waldron, 44, and Yan Licorish, 54, were ordered to stand trial at the next practicable sitting of the Demerara Criminal Assizes after the magistrate found that the prosecution had established prima facie evidence against them at the close of its case.
The two men are accused of murdering 58-year-old Mohabir Singh, also known as “Emile,” between March 15 and March 16, 2021, at the Kaieteur News premises located at Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown.
They are represented by attorney-at-law Latchmie Rahamat.
be sent to the High Court to stand trial. If such evidence is found, the accused is committed to the Assizes for trial by judge and jury.
In this case, Senior Magistrate Daly ruled that the written evidence presented by the prosecution met that threshold.
Singh’s lifeless body was discovered under a shed on the Kaieteur News compound in the early hours of March 16, 2021.
A post-mortem examination conducted by Government Pathologist Dr. Nehaul Singh determined that the cause of death was
Under Guyana’s current criminal procedure, oral preliminary inquiries (PI) have been abolished and replaced with paper committals
This means that instead of witnesses giving live testimony in the Magistrates’ Court, the case is reviewed based solely on written statements and documentary evidence submitted by the prosecution.
At the end of a paper committal, the magistrate determines whether there is sufficient evidence — known as prima facie evidence — for the accused to
brain haemorrhage resulting from blunt force trauma to the head.
Investigators later arrested Waldron and Licorish after reviewing surveillance footage obtained from nearby CCTV cameras, which allegedly linked them to the fatal assault.
The men had been employed as security personnel at the media house at the time of the incident.
Singh had reportedly lived on the streets for decades and was once a goldsmith before falling into drug addiction in his 30s.
and enjoying each other’s success. That’s important,” added Reifer. South Africa does hold one tangible advantage: familiarity with the venue, having played most of their games at the same Ahmedabad ground. But Reifer dismissed any concerns about
external factors.
“Once we plan properly and execute our plans, we will play a good game of cricket. We’re not worried too much about venues and who plays there, who does not. For us, it’s just coming out, understanding what needs to be done and executing.”
With both sides packed with match-winners, Reifer expects the contest to be decided by fine margins.
“All the teams are balanced. You come to a World Cup, and each team has quality players. On the day, it’s the team that wants it the most and which team executes their plans under pressure. They have a balanced team. We have a balanced team as well. It’s just a matter of the day and which team executes their plans to the best of their abilities.”
The modern game’s evolution has been impossible to
ignore, with scores of 230plus becoming increasingly common. Reifer stressed that clarity of roles would be crucial in navigating the high-stakes encounter.
“The game has evolved. Teams are getting to 230plus, so it’s just a matter of guys understanding their roles. Each person has a different role to play. There are different phases in the game: you have the power play, the phase after the power play,
Charles (Chatham Town FC), Calaigh Copland (Impero Venom), Annalisa Vincent (Talladega College), Adelina Ritchie (United Futbol Academy), Anya Tribune (Gardner Webb University), Shamya Daniels (Talladega College), Shanic Thornhill (Police FC), Sandra Johnson (GDF FC).
goals in their previous outing, the Lady Jags have reportedly focused on defensive transitions and clinical finishing in the final third.
After conceding three
Dominica, currently sit-
then 11 to 15, 16 to 20. So each person has a role to play in each phase. It’s just for guys to go out there and execute their role in the different phases.”
For West Indies, Thursday represents an opportunity to silence their doubters and edge closer to a semifinal berth. And if Reifer’s calm confidence is anything to go by, the Caribbean side believes their best cricket is still to come.
ting at the bottom of Group B, will likely adopt a defensive posture, requiring Guyana to be patient and creative in their build-up play.
and achievements continue to raise the profile and standard of cricket within our association.”
As a mark of respect, members observed a minute’s silence for the passing of Treasurer Matthew
Francis’ father. The executives also approved the budget for 2026 following the presentation of the finan -
to perfection to meet an inswinging cross from Ephron Mason-Clark with a telling header.
ENGLISH RACING TIPS
WETHERBY
09:50 hrs Tunisya
10:25 hrs Diamond Dealer
11:00 hrs Toby Two Scoops
11:35 hrs Largy Force
12:10 hrs Woodland Park
12:45 hrs Laysoft
13:15 hrs Bo Cruz
TAUNTON
09:41 hrs Fountains Blenhgin
10:16 hrs Cooler Than Me
10:51 hrs Fat Faced Columbo
11:26 hrs Snapdance
12:01 hrs Fortune Dancer
12:36 hrs Rices Pool
CHELMSFORD CITY
13:00 hrs Felix Gem
13:30 hrs Cristo
14:00 hrs Thecoffeepoddotio
14:30 hrs Smokey Malone
15:00 hrs Flick's Girl
15:30 hrs Signcastle City
(From page 30) (From page 31) (From back page) (From back page)
United substitute Tyrese Campbell had the home crowd on their feet in the last few minutes when he
16:00 hrs Silkies Sib
IRISH RACING TIPS CLONMEL
08:59 hrs Arcadian Emperor
09:24 hrs You Done Well
09:59 hrs Courtbrack Boy
10:34 hrs Harty Cup
11:09 hrs Mount Frisco
11:44 hrs Brown Boots
12:19 hrs Ballygunner Castle
12:53 hrs Connemara Shore
SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS
TURFFONTEIN
08:20 hrs Galaxy Queen
08:55 hrs Bristol Hercules
09:30 hrs Diogenes
10:05 hrs Spring Tradition
10:40 hrs Lance Alot
AMERICAN RACING TIPS
AQUEDUCT
Race 1 Siperpower
Race 2 Néw York
Scrappy
Race 3 Egyptian
Race 4 Gulfy
Race 5 Maggie T
Race 6 Social Hour
tumbled under a challenge from Bobby Thomas - but the striker was booked for a dive instead of winning a penalty.
cials for 2025.Meanwhile, the 2026 season is set to get underway on Saturday, May 9. (Frederick Halley)
The Sky Blues now host Stoke on Saturday while United must regroup at QPR.
(From page 27)
Beth Mooney made a fluent 76 off 79 balls before all-rounder Annabel Sutherland hit an unbeaten 48, sealing victory with a six off Deepti Sharma.
Hobart will stage the final two matches of the series, on Friday and Sunday.
Australia's defeat by India in the T20 series this month was their first at home in nine years.
"A little bit was put on us about how we were going to bounce back," said Healy. "To come out and play the way we did today was clinical. I'm proud of the group."
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana made gritty half-centuries in India's 214 all out, while Kashvee Gautam contributed 43 from number eight. Off-spinner Ash Gardner claimed 3-33 and seamer Megan Schutt 2-42. (BBC Sport)
(Thursday, February 26, 2026)
COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD
83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 3 (2) 2
Today’s Quiz:
(1) Which wicketkeeper effected most dismissals in the Group stage of the current T20 World Cup?
(2) Which non-wicketkeeper took most catches? Answers in tomorrow’s issue
PAOLO Banchero scored 36 points with 10 rebounds and Desmond Bane added 22 points as the Orlando Magic finished off a successful road trip against Western Conference foes with a 110-109 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday.
Wendell Carter Jr. scored 20 points and Tristan da Silva added 13 as the Magic went 3-1 on their trip with a victory at Sacramento and two more against a pair of Los Angeles teams in the Clippers and Lakers. They lost at Phoenix in the second game of the trip.
Orlando shot 45.7% in the game but finished off the
victory by shooting 59.1% in the fourth quarter while scoring 31 points. It was the Magic's fourth consecutive victory against the Lakers going back to November of 2023.
Luka Doncic scored 22 points with 15 assists and nine rebounds while LeBron James and Deandre Ayton each added 21 points for the Lakers, who went 4-4 on an extended homestand that wrapped around both sides of the All-Star break. James had a chance to win it at the buzzer but his fallaway 3-pointer from was off target.
Austin Reaves scored 18 points for the Lakers, who
shot 48.2%.
Los Angeles built its advantage to 12 points in the third quarter at 65-53 but a 12-4 run to close out the third quarter brought Orlando within 80-79 heading into the fourth.
The Lakers went up 106103 on a Rui Hachimura 3-pointer with 2:14 remaining.
After officials overturned a foul by Carter on Doncic, the Lakers won a jump ball with 1:05 remaining but James made just one of two free throws with 44.7 seconds left for a 107-105 lead.
Bane gave the Magic a 108-107 lead on an open 3-pointer with 35.4 seconds
RICHARD Pybus has been appointed Afghanistan's new head coach post the team's group stage exit at the ongoing T20 World Cup. The Englishman takes over from Jonathan Trott, who was at the helm of the Afghanistan team for four years.
Pybus boasts of a wealthy coaching CV, having overseen Pakistan's run into the final of the 1999 World Cup. He was also the director of cricket of West Indies during which the men's, women's and U19 teams tasted World Cup glory in 2016.
Pybus continued to have a long association with West Indian cricket. He first served as the high-performance director in 2018, following which he was appointed interim head coach the following year. He also had a short, but controversial stint as head coach of Bangladesh in 2012. Pybus' first assignment
with Afghanistan will be presiding over the team's white-ball series against Sri Lanka in the UAE. The first T20I is scheduled to be played in Sharjah on March 13. (Cricbuzz)
ALYSSA Healy began her final series before retirement with a half-century as Australia eased to a six-wicket victory over India in the opening one-day international.
She scored 50 off 70 balls opening the batting as Australia chased down a target of 215 with 11.4 overs to spare in the day-night match at Allan Border Field in Brisbane.
(Scores: India 214 (48.3 overs): Mandhana 58 (68); Kaur 53
Gardner 3-33
remaining. A James dunk off a Doncic assist put the Lakers up 109-108 with 26.3 seconds before a Carter layup inside with 6.7 seconds on the clock proved to be the difference after James' final miss.
The Lakers shot 52.6% from the floor in the first half while taking a 56-53 lead into the break after Ayton, who posted a gamehigh 13 rebounds, scored 17 points. Carter had 15 points as the Magic shot 42.0% before halftime.
(Reuters)
SHAKIB Al Hasan's homecoming gathered momentum as Bangladesh Cricket Board submitted documents relating to the all-rounder's legal cases to the government on Tuesday. Shakib, a former Awami League Member of Parliament, has not returned to the country since Sheikh Hasina government was ousted in August 2024.
Shakib, who has publicly expressed a desire to play one last bilateral series at home, last appeared in Bangladesh colours in a Test against India in Kanpur in late 2024.
At present, the 38-year-old has turned his focus on franchise leagues around the world as he has been absent from the national side for nearly a year and a half. The Yunus government imposed an unwritten ban on him for his affiliation with the Awami League.
During the Yunus-led re-
gime, Shakib was implicated in several cases that include a murder case. Many believed the cases were lodged largely due to his association with the deposed government. Recently, the BCB insisted that they want Shakib back for the upcoming home series against Pakistan after discussing with him about his possible return back to his country.
In the recent past, Aminul Haque, the newly appointed State Minister for Youth and Sports, said the new government would move to resolve legal cases against Shakib and ex-skipper Mashrafe Mortaza and open the door for their return to cricket. Mortaza, a lawmaker of the former Awami League government, was also embroiled in legal disputes. In fact, Mortaza opted to remain away from public eyes since the fall of his party from power.
Aminul said that both former captains faced cases that needed to be settled "at the state level" to allow them to resume their involvement in the sport. Cricbuzz understands Shakib's legal team prepared the papers of the said cases following Aminul's statement, pushing the BCB to take necessary steps that can pave his comeback for one final series. However, Bangladesh batting coach Mohammad Ashraful believes Shakib can also go on to play in the 2027 World Cup.
"We have sent the papers of his (Shakib's) cases to the government," a top BCB official confirmed to Cricbuzz on Tuesday without elaborating further.
The BCB officials confirmed the development hours after Bangladesh ODI skipper Mehidy Hasan told reporters that he was looking forward to teaming up with Shakib again.
"Of course I would feel happy to play with him [Shakib] again. We have played together for many years. We also didn't play together for the national side in the last few years. So if Shakib bhai plays [in the upcoming series against Pakistan] obviously I would feel elated," Miraz told the media.
Bangladesh cricket team, after having already qualified for the 2028 ICC T20 World Cup despite not featuring in the
ongoing edition, now focus on 50-over assignments with the 2027 ODI World Cup qualification still on the line. Hosts South Africa and Zimbabwe and the eight highest ranked Full Members in the ICC ODI rankings as of March 31, 2027 will make up the 10 direct entrants in the 14-team ODI World Cup while the remaining four spots will be decided through a qualifiers' event.
Bangladesh, who are currently placed 10th, must climb
to ninth or higher before the deadline to claim a direct berth. They have 23 ODIs lined up till the cut-off time, starting with the home series against Pakistan in March. Bangladesh are also scheduled to host New Zealand, Australia and India while there are also ODI series away against Ireland, South Africa and Zimbabwe.
If India's tour of Bangladesh in August is scrapped, the number will go down to 20. Whether they have 20 to 23 matches ahead of the cutoff time, it is understood the team management would be keen to have the all-rounder back considering their recent form in ODIs.
The urgency of the team management as well as ODI skipper Mehidy is validated through statistics: Bangladesh have played 25 ODIs since Shakib left the country and have managed to win only seven out of them while losing 17 matches, with another game postponed. (Cricbuzz)
FOLLOWING reports that Indian owners are unlikely to consider Pakistani players in the upcoming auction of The Hundred, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has dashed off a letter to the franchises on the contentious issue.
Vikram Banerjee, the CEO of The Hundred, has urged teams to pick players on sporting merit but the inherent contradiction in the ECB mail is not difficult to escape.
"Player selection must always be based on cricketing rationale, availability and team performance strategy/needs. No one should be denied a place in The Hundred because of their nationality, and it is within the powers of the Cricket Regulator to investigate should it receive any evidence of a team adopting a policy of excluding players based on nationality.
"Our competition will thrive when the best available talent - domestic and international - is given the opportunity to perform, inspire, and elevate the standard of the tournament," the ECB letter states. The mail, it
cannot be ignored
is learnt, was sent to the franchises a couple of nights ago. The ECB mail, however, exposes some fundamental inconsistencies. Over the last five years, there were only two players in three seasons (2021, 22 and 25). Not a single woman player from Pakistan featured in the five seasons of The Hundred.
There were six and four players in the 2023 and 24 season but for the majority of the The Hundred seasons, six of the eight franchises did not have a Pakistani player. What is more, last year, no Pakistani player was picked in the draft and the two players who featured in the season eventually - Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir - came in as replacement players. Each squad can comprise 15-16 players, with the ECB allowing a maximum of four overseas players - both in the overall squad and in the playing XI. Teams have already been permitted to directly sign two overseas players, leaving only two foreign slots to be filled at the auction. If a franchise is forced to pick a Pakistani player(s) for one or both overseas slots, then it begs the ques-
Oval Invincibles, winners of the last three editions of the Men's Hundred, have now rebranded as MI London
tion that will it be cricketing rationale as mentioned in the ECB communication.
Cricbuzz was first to report on February 20 that 63 Pakistani men, including Salman Agha, Shaheen Afridi, Saim Ayub, Usman Tariq, Shadab Khan, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed and Mohammad Amir, have registered for the March 1112 auction in London.
The ECB's email comes amid reports that players may speak out on the issue - a development some interpret
as a veiled warning to the authorities. "There'll be a group of players that will speak up. There'll be things done about it. I think players should speak up. Anyone that has any sort of concern for these kinds of things - it doesn't matter if they have Pakistani heritage - should speak up.
"It'd be really interesting to see what happens, because I genuinely think other countries can do what they want, obviously we're not in control of those things, but in the UK, we have a bit
more say about these things," Moeen Ali who has played in eight seasons of the IPL, has been quoted as saying in the English media.
Six of the eight franchises - London Spirit (owned by US-based tech investors), MI London (Reliance Industries), Manchester Super Giants (RPSG Group), Southern Brave (GMR Group), Sunrisers Leeds (Sun TV) and Welsh Fire (US-based Sanjay Govil) - having Indian connections.
Four of those managements have direct IPL links -
Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, Lucknow Super Giants and Sunrisers Hyderabad - and they, along with other Indian owners, have stayed away from signing Pakistani players in overseas leagues, be it the SA20 in South Africa or the ILT20 in the UAE, for obvious political tensions between the countries. But there has never been a blanket ban on Pakistani players. There were occasions when Indian franchises picked Pakistani players in their overseas leagues. (Cricbuzz)
The road to to the 2026 Concacaf U-20 Championship continued with a bang on Tuesday as the opening matches in Groups D, E, and F delivered a flurry of goals, statement victories, and dramatic draws.
While the results were mixed across the board, three nations, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Martinique, and Aruba, seized the spotlight with impressive performances to take early control of their respective groups.
At the Stadion Rignaal ‘Jean’ Francisca in Willemstad, Curaçao, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines delivered a dominant attacking display, crushing Anguilla 6-0 to immediately stamp their authority on Group D.
The rout began with a stroke of misfortune for Anguilla, who put the ball through their own net to hand the “Vincy Heat” the lead.
From there, it was all Saint Vincent. Shaquan Hooper doubled the advantage in the 19th minute with
a superb volley from a corner kick.
The floodgates truly opened just before and after the halftime break, as Tyrique Clarke netted a quick-fire brace, scoring in the 45th and 47th minutes to put the game well out of reach.
Zheon Cunningham added a fifth from close range in the 67th minute, before Tyler Lewis capped off the comprehensive victory with a strike in the 84th.
In the other Group D clash, hosts Curaçao survived a late scare to edge out Guyana 3-2. Guyana drew first blood through Bryan Wharton in the 8th minute, but Curaçao responded swiftly.
Damiënthly Bernardina converted a penalty in the 20th minute, and Dayvi Busby curled in a beauty from inside the box to make it 2-1 before the break.
Bernardina secured his brace with a tap-in midway through the second half, a goal that proved crucial after Reiss Parris headed in from
a set piece for Guyana in the 90th minute to set up a tense finish.
Action in Group E, held at the Costa Rican Football Federation grounds in Alajuela, was filled with excitement but yielded no outright winners, as both matches ended in hard-fought draws.
Barbados and Sint Maarten played out a 1-1 stalemate. Tim Van Ottele put Sint Maarten ahead from close range in the 20th minute, but the lead lasted only six minutes.
Barbados’ Xavier Bayne produced a moment of magic, unleashing a stunning long-range strike to level the scores and ensure the points were shared.
The drama was even more intense in the other Group E fixture, where Trinidad and Tobago came from behind to salvage a 2-2 draw with Bermuda.
Bermuda looked to be in control after Jace Donawa capped a magnificent solo run with a cool finish in the 38th minute. The lead held
Bengaluru, (Reuters) - Yuvraj Samra honed his batting skills in indoor stadiums back home in snowy Canada and the gifted teenager is now ready to test himself in the heat of Mumbai as he chases an Indian Premier League deal after an impressive Twenty20 World Cup.
The 19-year-old became the youngest centurion in a T20 World Cup match last week when he made a scorching 110 off 65 balls, a knock that included 11 fours and six sixes, during his team's eight-wicket defeat to New Zealand.
While his World Cup adventure ended after Canada's exit, Samra is eager to get used to Indian conditions and has shifted base to Mumbai to train under India international Yashasvi Jaiswal's childhood coach Jwala Singh.
"I want to practise on turf wickets, especially on Mumbai wickets as it's not easy to bat on them. If I can bat well here, I can bat on any wickets," Samra told reporters, noting that he did not have similar opportunities back home.
"It's minus 20 degrees Celsius and it snows for like six months there. It's tough playing indoors all the time."
Samra, born in Ontario and named after India great and fellow left-hander Yuvraj Singh, is eager to impress scouts from the 10 teams in cricket's most lucrative franchise league and break new ground.
"I want to be in the IPL as its first Canadian and I want to play as much franchise cricket as I can around the world," Samra said.
While there is no shortage of elite T20 leagues around the world, players from the
until the final ten minutes when the game exploded into life.
Trinidad and Tobago turned the game on its head with two quick goals, an unfortunate own goal from Bermuda in the 79th minute, followed by a strike from Dominic Joseph.
Just as it seemed the Soca
Warriors had stolen the win, Bermuda’s James Morrison rose highest to power home a towering header from a corner in the 84th minute, restoring parity and ensuring the points were split.
At the Estadio Miguel Chocorrón Buitrago in Managua, Group F belonged to the visitors, as both Martinique
and Aruba recorded emphatic victories on the opening day. Martinique kicked off their campaign in scintillating fashion, demolishing the U.S. Virgin Islands 7-1. Meanwhile, in the biggest shock of the night, Aruba stunned tournament hosts Nicaragua with a composed 2-0 victory.
AS thirty-two teams gear up for the annual Hamilton Green nine-a-side Inter-Ward/Village Knockout Football Cup, organisers have confirmed key fixture changes ahead of this Sunday’s kickoff.
Coordinator and former national football coach Lennox Arthur announced a reshuffle to the March 1 and March 4 fixtures, while assuring fans that all match days remain unchanged.
associate members of global governing body the International Cricket Council often struggle to secure deals.
The limited opportunities are not restricted to franchise cricket, with international matches against full members few and far between, affecting players' chances to compete.
"It's hard to compete against nations like New Zealand and South Africa because we play these teams once every two to four years," Samra said.
"If we play teams like these in smaller series throughout the year, I feel we can become a better team."
The tournament is set to run from March 1–21 at the Plaisance Ground, returning top-flight community football to the East Bank Demerara corridor. The two revised opening nights will feature all 32 teams before the field narrows to the final sixteen.
“All match days remain the same. However, changes were made to the March 1st and 4th fixtures after a polite request by a few other organisers,” Arthur explained. “In keeping with our good organisational ethics to the game, we were forced to reshuffle our fixtures. Everything else remains the same, and fans can look forward to even more excitement.”
The revised March 1 fixtures include; West Side Alliance taking on Eagles in the curtain-raiser. This will be followed by Herstelling facing Beavers, Zeelugt matching skills with Bell West Stars, and Uitvlugt opening their campaign against Team Pele. At 8:00 p.m., Plaisance will play Wales, Buxton Stars will clash with Haslington, Buxton United will tackle No. 1 All Stars, and Victoria will lock horns with Park Squad Ballers in the final matchup of the evening.
Over five nights of intense competition, teams will battle for a share of $800,000 in prize money. The champions will pocket $500,000 plus trophy and medals, while second and third place will earn $200,000 and $100,000 respectively. Meanwhile, the tournament’s longstanding partner Ricks and Sari Enterprise have confirmed its continued support with hampers for the winning teams as part of the prize package.
Making the event possible are: ENet, Stars Rental, Cummings Electrical Company Ltd, Pegasus Hotel, New Thriving Restaurant, John Fernandes Ltd, Busta Soft Drink, G MIN Ventures, China Trading, Toolsie Persaud Ltd, Gafoors, Aurora,King Liquor Store, Correia & Correia, Dr Michael Sue, Patrick Labba Barton, Dr Linden Dodson, Ronaldo Alphonso, IPA, and the Office of the COP.
Following the March 1 showdown, sixteen more teams will compete on March 4 for the remaining eight spots in the round of sixteen. The fixtures include Beterverwagting (BV) versus Espanyol in Match #9, while Pouderoyen will be aiming for a win against Madrid. Mocha will battle Coverden, followed by a clash between Melanie and Harmonie. The night will also feature four more exciting encounters: Liliendaal taking on Pouderoyen ‘B’, Mahaica facing Wash Bay Boys, Ann’s Grove going pound for pound with Soesdyke, and Golden Grove squaring off against Timehri United in the final match of the opening round.
EXECUTIVE member of the Athletics Association of Guyana(AAG) Niall Stanton says the body is excited with the volume of Track and Field athletes already reaching the mark for the April 4-6 games set to be hosted this year in Grenada.
He says based on the times done they expect to do well come April in the Caribbean Island.
AAG official and Coach Niall Stanton says that after staging the first set of qualifiers the body is taken aback by the hard work of the athletes which has resulted in 17 athletes combined already booking their places in U17 and U20 CARFITA Track and Field Championships.
Stanton remarked, ‘We did not expect so many persons would have qualified so early when the window opened, but as you can see the coaches and the young people have been putting in the work.. Our expectation is very high, we were looking at 18 athletes qualifying but it seems as though it will be more than that.
He said the fact that three sprinters have qualified for the 100 metres speaks to the quality of the Track and Field stars
Stanton mentioned that the final CARFITA trial will held on Saturday where he anticipates more qualifiers.
Meanwhile, in the Girls Under-17 category Teshianna Harris – 100m (11.74)
and Angel Jeffrey – 100m (11.89) have qualified
While the Boys Under-17 qualifiers are Omari Welch –100m (10.97), Jarel Campbell – Long Jump (6.93m) and Keimal Gishard – Triple Jump (13.54m), High Jump (1.85m).
The top prospect come from the overseas ranks in past CARFTA medalists
Malachi Austin – 200m, 400m, Athaleyha Hinckson – 100m, 200m and golden Girl Tianna Springer – 400m.
The Under-20 boys making the mark are Onesi Dunn – 100m (10.32), Gordon Thompson –100m (10.38), Walton Alleyne – 200m (21.39),
BOXING greats Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather have agreed a professional rematch in September.
Pacquiao, 47, and Mayweather, 48, will fight at Sphere in Las Vegas on Saturday, 19 September, with the bout live on Netflix.
Former world champion Mayweather announced he would come out of retirement for a fourth time last week.
It will be the American's first professional bout since beating mixed martial arts fighter Conor McGregor with a 10th-round technical knockout in 2017.
Filipino Pacquiao retired from the sport to focus on his political career in 2021 but returned to the ring last July to fight WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios, who retained his title after a draw.
Mayweather and Pacquiao first met in 2015, in what was billed as the 'Fight of the Century' and remains the richest in boxing history. It was Mayweather who emerged victorious, beating Pacquiao via a wide unanimous decision in Las Vegas. It is not yet known over how many rounds or at what weight class the rematch will
Deuquan Farrell – 200m (21.09), Skylar Charles –100m, 200m (21.30),
Tishawn Easton – 200m (21.43), 400m (46.42), Kaidon Persaud – 400m
be contested.
Pacquiao, winner of 12 world titles across eight weight classes, said: "Floyd and I gave the world what remains the biggest fight in boxing history.
"The fans have waited long enough. They deserve this rematch.
"I want Floyd to live with the one loss on his professional record and always remember who gave it to him."
Mayweather, who turns 49 on Tuesday, said: "I already fought and beat Manny once. This time will be the same result." (BBC Sport)
and
COVENTRY City once again showed their mettle to come from behind and beat Sheffield United to move five points clear at the top of the Championship.
City's quest to end a 25year exile from the top flight looked under threat when Harrison Burrows slammed the Blades into a deserved lead at the start of the second half.
But Frank Lampard's side showed a clinical touch to score with their first two shots on target and take the lead within nine minutes of falling behind.
Haji Wright found space to hammer through Blades goalkeeper Michael Cooper and Jack Rudoni then flicked
in a fine header in front of 3,000 travelling fans.
Defeat leaves Chris Wilder's side nine points shy of the play-off places and possibly ends their hopes of an unlikely promotion push.
It is only eight seasons since Coventry found themselves in League Two but they are edging closer to a Premier League return after a potentially pivotal week.
Tough-looking games against second-placed Middlesbrough, West Brom and Sheffield United have brought a maximum haul of nine points which could be worth more than their weight in gold.
They were made to show resilience in a first half which was bossed by the hosts with
Andre Brooks a particularly lively threat down the United right.
Wilder's side rained in 15 shots in the first 45 minutes with Patrick Bamford fluffing their best chance producing a tame shot at Carl Rushworth.
Burrows, who scored against relegated rivals Wednesday at the weekend, did find a way through at the start of the second half after collecting a sublime reverse pass from former Coventry midfielder Gus Hamer.
That awoke City though and Wright managed to equalise with a powerful shot that Cooper should have dealt with.
And just five minutes later Rudoni timed his run
(Turn to page 26)
By Sean Devers
BOUNTY Farm Handicap Squash tournament commenced on Tuesday evening at the Georgetown Club, and will run until Sunday with a record 92 participants expected to compete in three categories: Open, Elite and Rising.
Playing the Elite division, former Caribbean Singles Champion Ashley Khalil defeated Jason van Dijk 15-11, 15-11; Peter de Groot defeated Larissa Wiltshire 15-12, 14-15, and 15-13, while Mary FungA-Fat def. Ashley’s brother, Jason-Ray Khalil, 15-10, 15-2.
Results in the Rising (Beginners) category:
Jude Gobin def. Krystal Sami 15-14, 15-12, Javon Daziel def.
Zayne SAMI 15-14, 9-15, 15-14, Samara Sukhai def. Layla Rahaman 15-3, 15-6, Aries Sukhnandan def. Eva Thak-
urdin 15-14, 15-14, Aaran Sargeant def. [6] Danté Atkins 15-13, 1512, Fola Cadogan def. Jadah Hughes 6-15, 15-14, 15-12, Zendaya DeFreitas def. Gabrielle Jeune 15-14, 14-15, 15-12, Tyler Rahaman def. Emma Singh 15-10, 15-14, Sydney Cummings def. Averi Simon 15-13, 15-14, Omar Shariff def.
Safeena Guptar 15-13, 1315, 15-12, Skai Sukhai def. [8] Aderemi Simon 15-11, 15-11,
Results in the Elite division: Ashley Khalil def. Jason van Dijk 15-11, 15-11, Ana DaSilva def. Nikisha Allen 9-15, 15-13, 1514, Ashante Smith def. Regan Pollard 15-8, 10-15, 15-8, Alex Arjoon def. Steven Xavier 15-8, 15-8, Ben Mekdeci def. Kirsten Gomes 12-15, 15-
12, 15-11, Mary Fung-A-Fat def.
Jason-Ray Khalil 15-10, 15-2
Results in Open category: Reagan Rodrigues def. Juan Velazquez 15-11, 15-13, Maxwell
Viapree def. Mechaela Hohenkirk 15-6, 15-8, Demetri Lowe def. Zahara Belle 15-14, 15-14, Tehani Munroe def. Anna
Perreira 15-14, 15-9, Kaiden Alli def. Malia Maikoo 15-12, 15-
10, Brenno Da Silva def. Safirah Sumner 15-4, 15-5, Medhi
Ramdhani def. Jibril Alli 10-15, 15-12, 15-14, Lee Fung
A Fat def. Kristina Cheeks 15-8, 15-6, Kristian Viapree def. Kalani
Howard 15-2, 15-2, Ricky Romascindo def. Azariel Maison 1514, 15-2, Giovanni Grant
‒ Three newcomers elected to 10-man Board
LONG-STANDING president of the Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA), Shiv Persaud was re-elected unopposed when the reconvened Annual General Meeting (AGM) concluded last Sunday at the Malvern Resource Centre, Scarborough, Toronto, Canada.
The highly anticipated election of office-bearers for the new two-year term suffered a setback after the required quorum wasn’t met when the roll call was made at the Royal Crown Academy on Sunday, January 25.
Secretary Zakir Patel and Treasurer Matthew Francis also retained their respective positions on a day when seven posts were up elections.
A notable change occurred when the lone female on the 10-man board of directors, Abigal Rajkumar, was elected as the new Webmaster, succeeding Abu Rubait who did not seek re-election. Rajkumar, who was the Registrar/Statistician, gave way to newcomer Waqar Malik. The new Grounds Coor-
dinator is Irfaan Muddassir, who replaced Eon Gunraj while Irfanuddin Syed takes over from Ibrahim Khan who resigned late last year after only serving the first year of his two-year term.
The positions of Vice-president, held by Bisham Singh, Public Relations/ Marketing by Moshin Patel and Assistant Grounds Coordinator by Mark Lall were not up for grabs since they are in the first year of their two-year term, based on the SCA Constitution.
During his report at the convening of the AGM in January, Persaud told members that he remained committed to putting SCA first in 2026 and beyond by focusing on: adding new playing fields; improving maintenance of grounds and practice cages; strengthening youth development pathways; enhancing governance and operational standards and strengthening SCA presence and visibility in the community.”
The Guyana-born Per -
def. Zoey McDonald 12-15, 15-14, 15-11, Sunesh Maikoo def. Paul McAdam 15-5, 15-10,
saud pointed that it has been an honour to continue serving the SCA as President, alongside a diligent, committed, and hardworking board of executives. “I would like to sincerely thank my fellow board members and our membership for your continued support, co-operation, and trust throughout the past year.
“Congratulations to all of our clubs, teams, and individuals who recorded outstanding team and individual performances during the 2025 season. Your dedication
Jacob McDonald def. Tianna Da Costa 15-12, 15-12, Erin Tucker def. Mandi-
sa Munroe 15-7, 15-12, Ella Fernandes def. Teija Edwards 14-15, 15-14, 15-14
WILLEMSTAD, Curacao, (CMC) – Head coach of Curacao’s national football team, Dick Advocaat has stepped down from the position due to his daughter’s health issues.
The 78-year-old Advocaat created history earlier this year, when he guided Curaçao to qualification for this summer’s FIFA World Cup, making them the smallest nation ever to reach the tournament.
Curacao stunned the footballing world by emerging top of Group B in CONCACAF Qualifiers, playing unbeaten in their six games to end on 12 points – one more than Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz – to book their spot in the 2026 World Cup, set to be hosted by Mexico, Canada and the United States fr.om June 11 to July 19.
However, the Curacao Football Federation will now have to secure the services of another head coach after
Advocaat stepped down.
“I’ve always said that family comes before football. This is therefore a natural decision. But that doesn’t change the fact that I will miss Curaçao, the people there, and my colleagues very much,” Advocaat told ESPN.
“I consider qualifying the smallest country in the world for the World Cup one of the highlights of my career. I’m proud of my players, staff, and the board members who believed in us.”
Advocaat’s long-time assistant, Cor Pot, and team doctor Casper van Eijck, have also stepped away from their roles in support of him, while the remainder of the coaching staff will stay in place.
The ESPN report said Fred Rutten will take over as head coach.
Rutten, who spent his entire playing career with FC Twente, has previously led Twente, FC Schalke 04, PSV Eindhoven, Vitesse, Feyenoord and RSC Anderlecht.
CO-HOSTS Sri Lanka are out of the T20 World Cup after collapsing to a 61-run defeat by New Zealand in Colombo.
Needing to win to keep their semi-final hopes alive, Sri Lanka looked to be in control late into the New Zealand innings, having restricted them to 98-6 after 16 overs.
(Scores: New Zealand 168-7 (20 overs): Santner 47 (26); Theekshana 3-30
Sri Lanka 107-8 (20 overs): Ravindra 4-27, Henry 2-3
However, the bowlers crumbled in the face of a late surge from Mitchell Santner (47 from 26 balls) and Cole McConchie (31 not out from 23) and New Zealand bludgeoned 70 from the final four overs.
A chase of 169 left the game in the balance but Sri Lanka's top order folded, with fast bowler Matt Henry
taking two wickets in the powerplay.
From there, the home side failed to generate any momentum and when Rachin Ravindra had both Kusal Mendis and Pavan Rathnayake stumped in the ninth over, Sri Lanka were 29-4 and the game was up.
Left-arm spinner Ravindra, who made 32 from 22 with the bat, took a further two wickets to end with figures of 4-27, while Henry
No point to prove, we’re here to win it all
AHMEDABAD, India, (CMC) — As the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Super 8 stage heats up, West Indies assistant coach Floyd Reifer struck a confident yet measured tone ahead of Thursday’s blockbuster against South Africa, insisting his unbeaten side has “no point to prove” to anyone but themselves.
Both teams arrive at the Ahmedabad venue with perfect records, making this clash a potential semifinal eliminator.
The winner takes a giant stride toward the last four, while the loser faces a mustwin scenario in their remaining group games.
History, however, favours the Proteas. While West Indies have won 15 and lost 14 of their 29 previous T20I meetings, South Africa have dominated on the World Cup stage, winning four of their five T20 World Cup encounters against the Caribbean side.
But Reifer isn’t buying into past narratives. “There’s no point to prove for us,”
Reifer told reporters. “We came here like any other team to win the competition. A lot of people have us flying under the radar, but we plan every game to go in there with a positive mentality to win cricket games.”
The numbers certainly suggest the West Indies are peaking at the right time. Their campaign has been marked by complete team performances, something Reifer was quick to highlight.
“Our energy is great. The vibe is good within the team, everybody’s up for it. We
was afforded the rest of the night off after taking 2-3 from his two overs as Sri Lanka dragged themselves to 107-8.
After losing to England in their opening Super 8s game, Sri Lanka depart with a whimper while New Zealand remain in contention to reach a fifth T20 World Cup semi-final.
For much of the first innings, though, Sri Lanka's bowlers looked like being the match-winners, with spinner
Maheesh Theekshana taking 3-9 from his first three overs and fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera also impressing.
They led the way as New Zealand slumped from 75-2 to 84-6 in less than three overs.
came here to play good cricket, and that’s what we’ve been doing so far. We’ve been planning well, batting well, bowling well, and fielding well. You have to do all three of those departments well to win cricket games.”
The camaraderie within the squad has been a notable feature of their campaign, as one reporter highlighted that the West Indies always seem to find form when it comes to tournament play.
“The guys are enjoying playing with each other, enjoying each other’s company
(Turn to page 26)
GUYANA’S Lady Jags have entered a critical preparation phase as they gear up for a must-win encounter in the CONCACAF Women’s Qualifiers.
Following a challenging 1-3 setback against Nicaragua on December 1, the Guyanese side returns to home soil this Friday, February 27.
They are set to face Dominica at the National Track and Field Centre in Leonora, West Coast Demerara, with kick-off scheduled for 20:00h.
The stakes for TFriday’s clash could not be higher. Guyana currently sits third in Group B, trailing leaders Nicaragua and regional powerhouses Jamaica.
With only the six group winners advancing to join the United States and Canada in the elite eight-team Concacaf W Championship, the Lady Jags have no room for error.
The Concacaf W Championship serves as the highstakes gateway for the region’s biggest prizes: qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027 and
But Sri Lanka failed to finish the job and McConchie began the fightback before his captain took over with a brutal display of hitting, dismantling a suddenly fragile Sri Lanka attack, in a stand of 84. It took New Zealand to a competitive total that, ultimately, proved more than good enough as the spinners took over and Sri Lanka fell apart.
Both sides have one Super 8s game remaining. New Zealand can seal their place in the semi-finals with victory over England on Friday, while Sri Lanka face Pakistan in Pallekele on Saturday. (BBC Sport)
the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympics.
Head coach and technical staff have named a 23-player roster that blends international collegiate experience with a robust local core from GDF FC and Police FC.
Official Lady Jags Squad:
Goalkeepers: Arden La-Rose (Ohio State University), Ludesha Reynolds (Michigan Technological University), Deekola Chester (Police FC).
Brianne Desa (Pickering FC), Samantha Banfield (Pickering FC), Hannah Baptiste (Sutton United), Savannah Vivia Singh (Catawba College), Alexis Bayley (Unionville UMSC), Glengie Lewis (GDF FC).
Forwards: Hope Windebank (Pickering FC), Otesha
(Turn to page 26)
Defenders: Jenea Knight (Charleston Southern University), Savanna Mondesir-Singh (Christian Brothers University), Adia Ritchie (United Futbol Academy), Glendy Lewis (GDF FC), Niomie Williams (GDF FC).