Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 31-10-2025N

MoM builds house for Yarrowkabra grandmother

EIGHTY-YEAR-OLD

Dalia Lewis and her four grandchildren are now living in a brand-new house, thanks to the Men on Mission (MoM) programme.

During his address on Tuesday at a simple handing-over ceremony held at Yarrowkabra, Soesdyke-Linden Highway, Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, the Hon Kwame McCoy said: “To build the society requires all of us to have the common drive to support the endeavours and initiatives of government, to be partners of government as residents and citizens of villages and communities.”

The house, built and donated under the flagship initiative of President, Dr Irfaan Ali’s One Guyana vision, marks another tangible demonstration of the government’s commitment to improving lives, strengthening families and fostering unity within communities, a press release said.

It added that the Men on Mission initiative brings together men from all walks of life to support vulnerable families, mentor boys and participate in community-building projects across the country.

Minister McCoy reminded the gathering that

nation-building goes beyond physical infrastructure and economic growth.

“To build a society requires compassion,” he said.

“It requires ensuring that the human side of us is the most pronounced part of our existence and our action. Building a country is not only about bricks and stones and cement and steel, it is about the people themselves, all of us working together in love, harmony, and unity,” he

THE Guyana Chronicle apologises for statements contained in the article titled, “High Court dismisses $400M lawsuit against Sinohydro”, published on October 28, 2025, which do not accurately reflect the remarks made by Her Honour, Justice Nicola Pierre.

While the report was based on information obtained from a press release issued by a party involved in the case, it was never the intention of the Guyana Chronicle to attribute to the Honourable Judge any statements or interpretations that were not contained in her official ruling.

The Guyana Chronicle reaffirms its utmost respect for the independence and integrity of the Judiciary of Guyana.

was quoted as saying.

Further, the minister urged citizens to remain focused on strengthening the social fabric of the nation.

“Even when detractors come around, we must never lose focus or the opportunity to consolidate and embrace each other,” the minister said adding, “That is what community is all about– standing together in the good times and bad, and celebrating our collective achievements.”

Turning to the goals of the Men on Mission initiative, McCoy said the programme aims to confront some of the country’s deep-rooted social challenges, particularly those affecting men and boys. “Too many men are not holding up to their responsibilities,” he lamented. “Too many men have abandoned their homes and brought sadness and devastation to families through their actions. We

want to help them rediscover their purpose and their place in society.”

He added that empowering men also means involving women as equal partners in the process of community transformation. “It doesn’t exclude women supporting the effort,” McCoy said. “It’s about everyone ensuring that our men take up their rightful place in society, so that our communities can be stronger, healthier, and more united.”

The minister also tied the initiative to the government’s wider social and housing agenda, noting that access to decent shelter remains a cornerstone of empowerment.

“This country has an impressive and expansive housing programme,” he said. “We have already delivered more than 50,000 house lots and are committed to building 40,000 new homes within the next five years.”

He credited President Ali’s leadership for creating the conditions that allow Guyanese to thrive.

“Our President is a leader who works every day among the people, ensuring that no one is left behind,” McCoy stated. “We are determined to fulfil every promise we’ve made, because building communities means building people.”

He concluded by urging men to lead with compassion, responsibility, and empathy, especially toward their families. “We must teach our boys the right things: to express emotions, to understand that it’s okay to feel, to cry, and to seek help,” McCoy said.

“That is how we raise better men, build stronger families and create the Guyana we all want to live in.”

Digital platform launched to make job search, hiring easier

––– as gov’t continues roll out of digital-transformation initiatives to enhance public services, efficiency

SKILLSCONNECT,

a digital platform created by the Government of Guyana will make job searching and hiring much easier, according to Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation, Zulfikar Ally.

Minister Ally in a statement on Thursday noted that the platform is a part of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic’s (PPP/C) wider plans to create a digital economy, eliminating traditional bottlenecks that once made various services tedious.

“Connecting small businesses to consumers. A commitment made by President Ali to digitize services…SkillsConnect is a key government initiative aimed at strengthening Guyana’s labour market through digital innovation. The platform empowers skilled and semi-skilled blue-collar workers by directly connecting them with employment oppor-

tunities and businesses nationwide,” Ally who is currently in Saudi Arabia alongside President Dr. Irfaan Ali said.

The public can access the platform by simply downloading it and registering. Users can post jobs and services within a few tabs and these must be approved by a moderator.

Once these are accepted, persons can send and receive job listings and services.

“This initiative aligns with the People’s Progressive Party Government’s strategy to advance digital transformation, enhance public service efficiency, and expand equitable access to employment and economic opportunities.”

Just recently, President Ali announced that Guyana will begin the large-scale implementation and distribution of the electronic identification system.

The President also assured citizens that there will be public awareness

and education as the government looks to roll out the initiative. Dr. Ali was the first to receive his E-ID back in August.

The biometric cards will not only offer citizens preferential treatment in certain areas but will also strengthen border control by monitoring who is entering the country.

The cards will be important for daily transactions, including opening bank accounts, and are a critical part of Guyana’s wider digital transformation agenda.

In January, the border control and engagement system went live, and has since seen improved security at the airports and border crossings, and assured accuracy and reliability in the verification of travel using state-of-the-art technology and rigorous processes aligned with International Civil Aviation Organisation standards.

The government, too, is creating service centres

in every region, where citizens can visit, conduct their businesses, and have queries handled within their home regions, eliminating the need to travel to Georgetown for government services.

Already, the government has begun the rollout of several innovative technology initiatives aimed at improving access to basic services, which has seen the country heading into a new era with several digital and artificial intelligence-led platforms aimed at improving access to government services and enhancing security.

Recently, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced that the country’s immigration support services have moved to a new digitised system.

This will reduce the need for in-person visits to offices, cutting and eventually eliminating long wait times, and streamlining a process that was done manually.

Seven-year-old data used to rate Guyana in global governance index —MPAGsays

THE Government of Guyana has challenged the accuracy of Guyana’s placement in the World Justice Project (WJP) Rule of Law Index 2025, arguing that the ranking was derived from outdated surveys and does not represent the nation’s current governance and justice landscape.

A statement issued on Thursday by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance (MPAG) said while it values international mechanisms that monitor governance and anti-corruption efforts, the data underpinning the WJP 2025 Index is “as old as seven years ago.” Guyana was ranked 80th in the 2025 report, a slight drop from

78th in 2024.

According to the release, “The 2025 report, without question, relies on older datasets including a household polling data which originates from 2018 and 2022 by the StatMark Group. Of note, neither of these face-to-face surveys were ever made public at the time nor does the public know of the StatMark Group.”

The Ministry stressed that such outdated surveys fail to account for major institutional and legislative reforms implemented since 2022.

It noted that the government has undertaken significant improvements across governance and justice sectors, making the In-

Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance,

Gail Teixeira

dex an unreliable reflection of Guyana’s progress.

“The report therefore cannot be construed as a

real reflection of Guyana’s 2025 realities, particularly given ongoing institutional and legislative reforms

across governance and justice sectors after 2022, and certainly since 2018,” the statement said.

The Ministry also questioned the credibility of the expert opinions used to compile the Index, pointing out that most contributors remained anonymous.

“It cannot be that the perceptions of a few anonymous people are considered representative of the entire population of approximately 800,000,” the Ministry stated, adding that “without more rigorous sampling parameters, it is indeed difficult to validate the robustness or representativeness of the findings.”

While acknowledging that such rankings “may provide attractive sound

bites for some,” the MPAG urged the public and the media to review official national data when interpreting third-party publications.

The Ministry also reiterated Guyana’s openness to international review and scrutiny, citing the country’s recent participation in the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) and the Universal Periodic Review (UPR).

As such, it called for transparency in methodology, timely data collection and clear disclosure of sampling processes, noting that reliance on 2018 and 2022 data “must not be misconstrued as depicting Guyana’s 2025 governance environment.”

Guyana launches humanitarian relief effort to support Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa

AS Jamaica grapples with the devastation that has been left in wake of Hurricane Melissa’s fierce winds, Guyana has stepped forward in solidarity, launching a national humanitarian response through the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) to support recovery and relief across the island.

The Category Five system has resulted in significant destruction, widespread disruption of essential services, and displacement of persons living in the affected areas.

Prime Minister, Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips, currently performing the functions of President, on Wednesday, convened a high-level coordination meeting with the Private Sector Commission (PSC), the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), and the CDC to finalise Guyana’s support

actions following the Hurricane’s impact.

“The Prime minister has indicated that the immediate and initial response will include the mobilisation and deployment of critical relief supplies including generators, tarpaulins, and chainsaws to support immediate response efforts in Jamaica. This support is being executed through a collaborative Government-private sector initiative under the coordination of the CDC and the leadership of the Prime Minister,” a press release by the CDC on Thursday said.

The CDC is continuously working closely with the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) and other regional partners to support ongoing relief efforts. The Director General confirmed that

Guyana stands ready to provide additional technical, logistical, and humanitarian assistance as recovery needs evolve.

Key teams, including the Guyana-CARICOM Disaster Relief Unit (G-CDRU) and the CARICOM Operational Support Team (COST), are currently on standby for deployment to assist with response and recovery efforts on the ground.

The release further said: “The CDC wishes to also highlight that the Private Sector Commission is calling on the generosity of the public and the private sector to support communities affected by Hurricane Melissa. Your contribution can make a real difference in helping families rebuild and recover. Your financial contribution will directly support the purchase and delivery of essential supplies for

affected families.”

How to Donate?

1. Cash or Cheque

Payable to: Private Sector Commission

Contact number for persons interested in making monetary donations: +592-614-4625

2. Bank / Wire Transfers

Account Name: Private Sector Commission

Bank: Demerara Bank

Account Number: 4023420

The CDC in partnership with the private sector with the support of the Office of the Prime Minister reaffirmed Guyana’s unwavering solidarity with Jamaica during this challenging period.

Hughes challenges admission of Mingo’s video interview with the police

– cites breach of rights

ATTORNEY-AT-LAW Nigel Hughes on Thursday objected to the admission of a video-recorded interview between the police and former Region Four Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo, contending that the recording was obtained in violation of his client’s constitutional rights.

Hughes raised his objections during the ongoing trial into allegations of electoral fraud stemming from the controversial March 2020 General and Regional Elections.

Before the objections were raised, Detective Corporal Richards took the stand to testify about the circumstances under which the video was recorded.

Richards, who is attached to the Timehri Police Station’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID), was called by prosecutor Attorney Madana Rampersaud to establish the authenticity of the recording and his role in producing it.

Under oath, Corporal Richards explained that in 2017 he completed a sixweek course in crime-scene photography and videography, conducted by the Guyana Police Force (GPF). The course, he said, equipped him to handle photographic and video evidence professionally.

Richards told the court that on August 25, 2020, while stationed at the CID Headquarters Crime Laboratory, he was contacted by a senior officer identified as Assistant Superintendent Komal Pitama, who requested that a video and audio interview be recorded.

He said, “I proceeded to the CID conference room, where I met and spoke with Mr. Pitama, Mr. [Senior Superintendent Mitchell] Caesar, and Mr. Clairmont Mingo. I recorded Mr. Pitama and Mr. Caesar interviewing Mr. Mingo.”

Caesar serves as the Head of the Major Crimes Investigation Unit and also carries out the duties of Deputy Crime Chief.

According to the witness, the process was conducted voluntarily. “At no time did I, or anyone in my presence, make use of any force, threats, or inducement toward Mr. Mingo. It was done of his own free will,” he told the court.

The policeman testified

that after completing the interview, he made two copies of the recording on separate blank DVDs, each labeled “CID HQ interview with Clairmont Mingo, Constable 24018 Richards, 2020-0825.”

One copy, he said, was stored in his desk drawer for safekeeping, while the other was handed over to an officer for inclusion in the case file.

When later transferred from CID Headquarters, Richards lodged the exhibit in the general property room. He said he was able to identify the disc presented in court by its markings.

Following the testimony, the prosecution moved to tender the DVD into evidence. However, Hughes rose to object, arguing that the recording was inadmissible.

He stated that Mingo’s right to counsel was disregarded during the interview.

“He was not allowed to have his counsel present when he was being interviewed,” Hughes told the court. He further noted that his client had been “in custody for an extended period and was unwell.”

Hughes said that Mingo’s attorney, Darren Wade, had arrived at the CID Headquarters but was “sent away and not permitted to see him.”

According to the defence lawyer, despite Mingo’s insistence that he wanted his counsel to be present, the interview went ahead.

The defence further alleged that Mingo was told “the only way he would be released is if he consented to participate in the video-recorded interview.”

Hughes maintained that Mingo had been in custody for three days before the video was made, arguing that his participation was not truly voluntary.

Prosecutor, Attorney Latchmie Rahamat, challenged the objections raised by Hughes, asserting that the video in question contained nothing incriminating against the accused and should therefore be admitted into evidence.

However, Hughes stood firm on his original objections, maintaining that the circumstances under which the recording was obtained rendered it inadmissible.

Following the objections, Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty initiated a voir dire

to decide whether the video evidence should be admitted.

A voir dire—often referred to as a trial within a trial is a legal proceeding used to assess the admissibility of evidence, such as confessions, video recordings, or police statements, before it is introduced in the main case.

The voir dire is scheduled to continue today.

BACKGROUND

Those facing charges in-

clude former Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield; former Deputy CEO Roxanne Myers; former Region Four Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo; former Health Minister under the previous A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) government, Volda Lawrence; and People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) member, Carol Smith-Joseph.

Also on trial are former Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) staffers Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Denise Babb-Cummings, and Michelle Miller.

Collectively, they face 19 conspiracy charges, and are represented by a robust defence team.

Due to the charges arising from the same set of circumstances, the matters have been consolidated. Each defendant has pleaded not guilty to the charges and secured their release by posting significant cash bail.

The prosecution, led by King’s Counsel Darshan Ramdhanie, argued that each defendant played a “critical role” in the deliberate effort to inflate votes for the APNU+AFC and reduce votes for the Peoples Progressive TURN TO PAGE 9

A digital bridge between workers and opportunities

IN an era defined by rapid digital transformation, Guyana’s government continues to make strategic strides towards modernising public services and creating inclusive access to economic opportunities.

The SkillsConnect platform, spearheaded by the Ministry of Labour and supported by Minister of the Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation, Zulfikar Ally, marks another critical step in reshaping the national employment landscape.

SkillsConnect is not just another app; it represents a shift in how Guyana connects its workforce to the jobs that power our economy.

The platform brings simplicity, accessibility and transparency to what was once

a fragmented process of job-searching and recruitment.

With a few taps, users can register, verify their accounts, and immediately begin browsing or posting jobs. Each post is vetted for authenticity before going live, ensuring a secure and credible space for both employers and workers.

For too long, many blue-collar and semiskilled workers operated on the margins of the formal job market. SkillsConnect is designed specifically to change that.

It places power directly into the hands of tradesmen, technicians, drivers, construction workers, and service providers who can now advertise their skills and negotiate directly with employers, without middlemen or un-

necessary bureaucracy.

This aligns seamlessly with the People’s Progressive Party/Civic administration’s broader vision to democratise access to economic opportunities through digital inclusion.

The app complements the Ministry of Labour’s existing online job bank by creating a more interactive, real-time network of professionals and employers. The inclusion of a translation feature for Spanish speakers is particularly forward-thinking, considering the growing multicultural workforce within Guyana’s expanding economy.

The platform’s potential goes far beyond individual employment. For small-business owners and entrepreneurs, SkillsConnect

offers a new digital marketplace, a space to showcase services, gain clients and build a reputation.

As the oil and gas, construction and manufacturing sectors continue to expand, such digital infrastructure ensures that Guyanese workers remain at the centre of national development.

In essence, SkillsConnect is more than a mobile app; it is a bridge between ambition and opportunity, between the worker and the workforce of tomorrow.

And as Guyana continues its journey towards a diversified, digital economy, platforms such as this remind us that progress is not just about growth, it’s also about connection.

Rebeccah Abdullah’s strong support system, perseverance result in admission to Guyana Bar

A VALUABLE lesson on tolerance, acceptance or perseverance was learnt through every challenge faced by recently admitted Attorney-at-Law Rebeccah Abdullah.

Abdullah’s petition was presented by Attorney-at-Law Sase Gunraj before Justice Joy Persaud-Singh at the High Court in Georgetown on Wednesday. Abdullah is now permitted to practise law before all courts of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana.

An employee of Caricom General Insurance Company. Inc, Abdullah’s journey to this moment is one of true determination and true self-belief.

Abdullah is a graduate of the University of Guyana with a bachelor’s degree in sociology in 2017, and bachelor’s degree in law in 2022. She also has a Certificate in Advocacy and Evidence for Summary Court Prosecutors from the university. Her most recent academic success was at The Bahamas based Eugene Dupuch Law School, where she attained her Legal Education Certificate.

Hailing from the West Bank of Demerara, Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara), Abdullah recalled that her journey was a difficult experience. Despite the challenges, she constantly reminded herself of Bhaga-

Attorney-at-Law Rebeccah Abdullah (Delano Williams photo)

vad Gita 2:14, which translates to: “O son of Kunti, the contact between the senses and the sense objects give rise to fleeting perceptions

of happiness and distress. These are non-permanent and come and go like the winter and summer seasons. O descendant of Bharat, one must

Laluni youth pleads guilty to

DWAYNE Thomas, a 22-year-old resident of Laluni, has admitted to manslaughter in the death of 28-year-old Brian Pitman, popularly known as “DJ Viper,” during a violent incident outside a family birthday celebration on January 8, 2023. The plea was entered before Chief Justice (ag) Navindra Singh at the High

Court in Demerara. Thomas had originally been indicted for the capital offence of murder but accepted the lesser charge following an agreed statement of facts presented to the court. Represented by attorney-at-law Madan Kissoon, Thomas remains in custody as he waits sentencing, which is scheduled for November 19, 2025.

The prosecution is being handled by State Counsel Simran Gajraj, Christopher Belfield, and Geneva Wills. Court documents detailed that the fatal incident unfolded around 20:00 hours. outside Pitman’s family member’s home along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway. Thomas and two other men were riding motor -

cycles when they began attacking Omar Bacchus, Pitman’s father-in-law, on the roadway.

Pitman reportedly rushed to Bacchus’ aid, armed with a piece of wood. He was confronted by Thomas and the other men, all carrying sharp objects. During the attack, Pitman fell to the ground and was struck multiple times.

learn to tolerate them without being disturbed.”

Her strong faith is one of the reasons she is here today.

“I give thanks to Lord Ganesh for giving me the strength and guidance when I thought all was lost. While it may have not been immediate, I knew Lord Ganesh would give me the strength to tolerate and guide me to achieving my goal of becoming an attorney at law,” Abdullah said.

The attorney revealed that she worked two jobs daily during her studies at the University of Guyana, leaving her home at seven in the morning and returning until 22:00hrs.

Throughout her years

at the Eugene Dupuch Law School, Abdullah was a full-time employee at the Caricom General Insurance Company Inc., where she served as a Senior Manager, Compliance Officer and Company Secretary.

She proudly expressed that her accomplishment would not have been possible without her strong support system, which included her mother Maywattie Abdullah, father Shaban Abdullah, her sister Miriam Abdullah, her husband Monesh Kumar Gopie her aunts, uncles and all her family, friends and those who were with her during her studies in The Bahamas.

He was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation but was pronounced dead on arrival.

A post-mortem examination later revealed four incised wounds caused by a sharp, heavy instrument. The cause of death was listed as haemorrhage and shock due to multiple incised wounds. Thomas’ guilty plea was accepted by Chief Justice

Singh, who has requested pre-sentencing reports, including probation, prison conduct, and victim impact assessments, to guide the sentencing process. The court has directed the prosecution to outline aggravating factors, while the defence must provide mitigating factors for consideration before sentencing.

We must not allow even one African mind to be fooled

QUITE often, people would ask me why I bother to respond to David Hinds and his acolytes like Henry Jeffrey.

I get the following reaction – people don’t pay any attention to them, so don’t bother with them.

That observation is right. When you think of the volume of anti-PPP output for five years (2020 -2025) from David Hinds, Henry Jeffrey, Lincoln Lewis, Mark Benschop, Norman Browne, GHK Lall, Christopher Ram, Kaieteur News, Stabroek News, the Guyana Human Rights Association, Red Thread etc, then it was impossible for the PPP to survive electorally.

These people were relentless in the mainstream media and on social media. Someone has to explain how not only did the PPP survive but it had an impressive victory in the 2025 elections. The PPP’s victory proves that the names above were ineffective, and do you know one of the reasons for that ineffectiveness was and is because people have spent five years countering and confronting the names listed above?

Think of it; had it not been for the counter-narratives then those names above would have managed to fool people. Someone like Joel Bhagewandin has done a thorough job debunking the fictions of the anti-oil critics, especially Christopher Ram and the Oil and Gas Governance Network. Had there been no Bhagwandin and Leonard Craig, there are people out there that would believe that EXXON’s profits are in the trillions, and Guyana gets nothing.

Guyanese read the response to the anti-government critics, and they learn. People read Ralph Ramkarran, Kit Nascimento, Neville Bissember, Walter Persaud, Tara Singh, Nazim

Baksh, Michael Young and many others who expose the moral bankruptcy and political charades of those that sermonise Guyanese daily with a menu of deceptions, racial miasma, and falsehood.

It is for this crucial reason that it is imperative to reply to the extremists like Hinds and Jeffrey and others because we should not allow even one mind to be swayed by them. It is easy to demolish their agenda because their agenda is a repetitive tune. It is about African Guyanese, and the intent is to fool African Guyanese.

So, you reply to them to expose them and when you expose them, then that vulnerable mind is saved and the extremists become ineffective. I saw a programme with Hinds and Jeffrey and there is no secret about it, these men do not hide their intention; it is to fool African Guyanese.

So, Jeffrey says there was no cross-racial voting. You have to expose Jeffrey’s asininity because you want him to be exposed as someone with a dastardly agenda. Any schoolboy can detect cross-racial voting in the last general election. Why that is easy is because people in the world that are familiar know that Africans since the 1950s voted for the PNC and Indians since that time vote for the PPP and you know this is so because of where they live.

Indians live in Enmore, Leonora etc. Africans live in Buxton, Golden Grove etc. Amerindians live in Laluni, etc. When the votes are counted and the PNC wins in Leonora and the PPP wins in Buxton then you know there is cross-racial voting. Against this graphic reality, Jeffrey told Hinds there was no cross-racial voting when the PPP and WIN picked up substantial votes in African areas, votes that since 1959

to 2020 went to the African dominated PNC.

Even though most Guyanese would find what Jeffrey had to say as comical and asinine, it is still obligatory to confront his stupidity out of the fear that he may attract an unsuspecting mind. Do you think Jeffrey is incapable of assessing the statements of poll to ascertain if there was cross-racial voting? He is capable but Jeffrey’s agenda is to deceive African Guyanese.

Here now is pyrotechnical evidence that David Hinds’ politics is about fooling Guyanese. He said in his podcast the following words, “I never see so much nonsense in my entire life about people saying WIN is an Indian party. WIN is an African party with an Indian leader.”

You have to be really imbecilic not to see

that this is an intention to fool African people. WIN is not an African party and will not be an African party because its Indian leader would not want it to be an African party. You have to silly to actually believe what Hinds said. But here now, once more there is more evidence of Hind’s deception. He told Jeffrey that WIN is a front for the PPP.

So, in one breath it is an African party that African Guyanese voted for, then in another breath this African party that Africans voted for is a front for the “Indianised PPP.” Yuh hear nonsense!

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 Ltd.

Body cameras programme to be expanded –– as gov’t continues to push transparency, safer communities

BODY cameras will soon become even more common on police officers as the government continues to bolster transparency regarding police accountability and Minister of Home Affairs Oneidge Walrond has already noted that their use on officers is already improving crime-fighting efforts.

The minister spoke about this during a recent airing of ‘Starting Point,’ and noted that the Standard operating Procedures (SoPs) make it a serious offence to delete the footage.

“It’s actually an offence

that is, that you can be disciplined for. The SOPs are very clear about that, you should not delete or turn off at any time when the body cam is on. It’s a change in culture. For the most part, it’s certainly been embraced by the leadership, because it certainly helps with accountability,” the minister said.

In next year’s national budget, the programme will be expanded, she informed viewers.

“The SoPs determines that it’s an offense under the police rules, you can be charged…And as a result of a disciplinary proceedings,

you can be demoted. The police force treats it very, very seriously,” she said.

Earlier this year, the Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken said that the Guyana Police Force (GPF) is working to build a safer Guyana together with civilians as crime declines and services improve.

In a bid to modernise policing and reduce conflict, the Force has introduced stun guns and expanded the use of body cameras, especially for traffic officers, Hicken said.

Commissioner Hicken emphasised that police accountability is a top priority

and urged citizens to raise concerns through multiple channels, including the Police Complaints Authority, or directly with senior officers, including himself.

“No police officer is above the law,” Hicken said.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali, had said Guyana has made significant strides in boosting public safety and this must be credited to the strategic investments being made to improve the country’s law enforcement.

The Head of State had further highlighted the concerted efforts of law enforcement agencies and the gov-

ernment’s investments in technology and personnel.

The President praised the commitment of the country’s police force, emphasising their proactive approach to maintaining law and order.

“That tells you that our men and women in uniform are proactively working,” Dr. Ali said, affirming the dedication of law enforcement officers who are working tirelessly to ensure public safety.

President Ali highlighted how the GPF’s welfare infrastructure has improved.

Notably, the modernisation efforts have seen the establishment of a Commu-

nity Relations Department to strengthen police-community relations, promote safe communities, and enhance preventative policing strategies through positive engagements and public trust.

In May of this year, President Dr. Irfaan Ali warned the Force that there will be “no excuses” for officers not to wear body cameras during their duties, as 5,000 body cameras were handed over to boost transparency and law enforcement reform.

Further, he previously urged a forward-thinking and balanced approach to policing in Guyana.

Annandale Secondary boy fatally struck by car driven by police corporal

A 15-year-old Annandale Secondary student, identified as Navindra Mahes, has died after being struck down by a car driven by a police corporal on Thursday.

The Ministry of Home Affairs confirmed this in a statement, where it pledged that the matter is being handled with the utmost seriousness and transparency. The tragic road accident occurred at approximately 07:30 hours on the Success Public Road, East Coast Demerara.

The injured student was transported to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where, despite the best efforts of medical professionals, he sadly succumbed to his injuries.

The driver remains under close arrest as a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident continues.

Police ranks are at the hospital rendering assistance and support to the grieving family.

The ministry, in the statement, said, “The Ministry of Home Affairs extends heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and school

community of young Navindra Mahes during this time of deep sorrow. The ministry assures the public that the matter is being handled with the utmost seriousness, transparency, and in accordance with established procedures.”

The accident involved motorcar #PAB 214, driven by a 35-year-old female police corporal, and pedestrian 15-year-old Mahes, who resided at Lot 44 Le Ressouvenir, East Coast Demerara.

Inquiries disclosed that the car was proceeding west along the northern carriageway on Success public road in the southern driving lane, where the ‘third lane’ was active at that time, according to a statement from the police.

The police reported that “Video footage revealed that the female driver continued to proceed further west, while the pedestrian was standing at the median that separates the two carriageways, facing north. The student then attempted to cross the road in a northern direction, using the pedestrian crossing, and in doing so, the left-side front portion of the car collided with the schoolboy.

“As a result of the col-

lision, Mahes fell onto the roadway, where he received injuries to his body. He was picked up by public-spirited citizens and escorted to the Georgetown Public Hospital’s Accident and Emergency Unit. On arrival at the hospital, the pedestrian was seen and examined by doctors on duty, suffering from head injuries and a fractured right leg.”

Mahes succumbed to his injuries at 09:56 hours while receiving medical treatment. His body is presently at the Georgetown Public Hospital Mortuary, awaiting a post-mortem examination.

Jennifer Ally to undergo counselling, inclusivity training as investigation continues – ERC

THE Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) on Thursday said that Ms. Jennifer Ally, who was recently summoned for making racially insensitive remarks on social media, is expected to undergo psychosocial counselling and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training.

According to a statement the woman met with the Commission on October 23, 2025, and during the engagement, as part of corrective measures, Ms. Ally expressed her willingness to cooperate with the Commission in addressing the serious concerns arising from her public statements.

“The Commission has also taken note of Ms. Ally's previous social media posts. As

such, the ERC has proposed several social interventions, including psychosocial counselling and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training, aimed at fostering greater understanding, respect, and responsible communication in the public domain, as the Commission continues its investigation.

The ERC’s mandate of promoting harmony and good relations is accomplished through constitutional directives of mediation, conciliation, or arbitration to resolve conflicts and engender social unity,” the ERC said in its statement.

It added that the Commission wishes to reiterate that it does not possess prose-

R3CCI’s inaugural ‘Business Youth Meetup’ slated for Saturday

THE Region Three Chamber of Commerce and Industry (R3CCI) will be launching its Youth Arm, with an inaugural Region Three Business and Youth Meetup, the first gathering of the Region Three Senior and Junior Chambers.

This event is slated for November 01, 2025, from 12:30hrs, at the West Central Mall, Leonora.

President of the R3CCI, Bhabita Albert, during a recent certification ceremony in Region Three at the Leonora Technical and Vocational Centre, stated that since the announcement of its Youth Arm, they have received over 250 applications from youths between the ages of 16 to 30.

The Chamber invites applicants as well as persons interested in being a part of the Youth Arm.

According to Albert, the plan for the Youth Arm is to group individuals who have similar mindsets/ interests, with a focus on programmes targetting specific areas.

The Chamber is also working along with international organisations that are currently preparing a number of memoranda of understanding. These will be ready to be signed in a matter of months and are centred around software management systems and AI mapping programmes.

“These programmes will not just enable you to learn about what's happening in the

Hughes

Party/Civic (PPP/C).

In the weeks that followed the contentious March 2, 2020, vote, Guyana’s judiciary was inundated with multiple applications and appeals filed by various political actors over the electoral process.

The saga lasted five months before a national recount, led by GECOM and a delegation from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM),

President

of the R3CCI, Bhabita Albert (Delano Williams photo)

technological world, but it will also give you an opportunity to earn in the future, especially for the software management systems because many businesses are moving towards efficiency and using technology to become efficient,” Albert said.

Moreover, she invited persons to be a part of the development, and to interact with entrepreneurs, executive directors and many other members of the R3CCI.

confirmed the PPP/C’s victory and ultimately led to the swearing-in of President Dr. Irfaan Ali on August 2, 2020.

The recount confirmed that the PPP/C won the elections with 233,336 votes against the APNU+AFC coalition’s 217,920.

The initial election results, announced by former CEO Lowenfield, claimed an APNU+AFC victory.

The APNU+AFC coali-

cutorial authority, nor is it responsible for arrests or prosecutions.

“In instances where matters require legal enforcement, cases may be referred to the Guyana Police Force under Article 212D (j) of the Constitution; however, such action is taken only after due review and in accordance with the laws of Guyana," the Commission said, adding that it will continue to closely monitor the matter to ensure that Ms. Ally demonstrates a sustained commitment to respectful and responsible public engagement.

“The ERC remains committed to promoting harmonious relations among all the ethnic groups in Guyana and reiterates that public discourse must be conducted responsibly with due respect for the diversity that defines our nation,” the statement said.

tion received 171,825 votes, while the PPP/C received 166,343 votes, according to Lowenfield’s election report.

Following the PPP/C’s return to office in August 2020, criminal charges were filed against the defendants.

GECOM made the decision to terminate the contracts of Lowenfield, Myers, and Mingo in August 2021, after the allegations of fraud came to light.

Region Two’s best graduating teacher for academics proves perseverance pays

By Indrawattie Natram

AT just 22 years old, Raywattie “Sophie” Deonarine of Spring Garden Region

Two has already lived several inspiring chapters, each one built on perseverance, faith and a quiet determination to succeed.

Sophie’s journey began at high school, where she graduated with 11 subjects, nine Grade Ones and two Grade Twos. Like many young people, she initially dreamed of a traditional career.

Her goal was simple: to work in an air-conditioned office at a financial institution. But when she finally got a taste of that environ-

ment, she realised that wasn’t where her heart belonged.

Instead of giving up, Sophie decided to follow her instincts. With little experience but a lot of courage, she started her own small printing business, Sophie’s Printing World.

Business was slow at first, and there were moments of doubt, but she never let that stop her. She believed that every challenge was an opportunity to learn.

One day, she came across a vacancy at Guyana Times.

Journalism had always sparked her interest, so she applied and in 2021, her life changed forever when she got the call that began her ca-

reer as a freelance journalist.

Even while writing stories, Sophie’s desire to make a deeper impact grew. She wanted to inspire others, especially young minds.

In 2022, she applied to the Teaching Service Commission and was appointed a teacher at Aurora Secondary School. Soon after, she enrolled at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE), a decision that would shape her future.

Balancing journalism, teaching, and studies was far from easy. Sophie would leave Aurora after a full day of teaching and travel to the Anna Regina CPCE campus for evening classes, often

returning home late at night. “There were assignments, exams, and many challenges,” she recalled, “but I kept reminding myself why I started.”

Two years later, in November 2024, Sophie stood on the CPCE graduation stage, nervous yet hopeful. When her name was announced, with the word Distinction beside it, she could hardly believe it. “That was the moment I realised that hard work truly pays off,” she said, smiling.

Her story didn’t stop there. During her one-year break from studies, Sophie expanded her business, adding handmade ribbon bouquets for special occasions. What began as a side hobby blossomed into another successful venture.

In September 2025, Sophie’s passion for learning led her to new heights.

She was accepted into the University of Guyana to pursue a degree in Mathematics, while also studying Communication and Mass Media at Amity University of California.

Then, in a moment that took her completely by surprise, Sophie was informed that she had been selected as Region Two’s Best Graduating Teacher for Academics.

“When I received the message from Miss Humel, I was shocked,” she said. “But deep down, I felt proud. I told myself, ‘Sophie, you wanted it—you got it.’”

Sophie credits her success to the people who supported her unconditionally,

Guyana,

Raywattie Deonarine and her awards

her mother, Lilwantie Jaigobin, her partner, Devindra Persaud, her lecturers and her aunt, Reema, who constantly encouraged her to push forward.

“I’m grateful to everyone who believed in me, even when I doubted myself,” she said.

Reflecting on her journey, Sophie shared a message of hope for others

“Never give up. Even if you didn’t shine in nursery, primary, or secondary school, once you put your

Suriname

mind to something, you can achieve it. I wanted to top my region at CPCE—and I did.”

Miss Sophie stands as a shining example of what persistence, passion and self-belief can accomplish.

From a young girl with big dreams to a teacher, journalist, entrepreneur, and top academic achiever, her story reminds us of all that success isn’t about where you start, but how determined you are to keep going.

to get development boost through US$1B Islamic Development Bank, IDB Group financing

IN a move to promote sustainable development in Guyana and Suriname, the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) and the Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group), in a joint and strategic partnership, pledged US$1 billion over the next five years, under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), to support both nations.

The MoU aims to catalyse investment in critical areas, including energy, urban and rural development, education, health, and transportation, while simultaneously fostering regional connectivity and resilience.

“At the Islamic Development Bank, we are committed to empowering our member countries and

fostering partnerships that advance sustainable development. This renewed engagement with the IDB Group allows us to jointly deliver transformative projects that will enhance livelihoods, strengthen resilience, and promote shared prosperity in Suriname and Guyana,” IsDB President Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser was quoted as saying, in the release.

“We are joining forces with the Islamic Development Bank to unlock new co-financing opportunities in Guyana and Suriname, as well as cooperation with other member countries, to build resilience, foster inclusive growth, and improve lives,” said IDB Group President Ilan Goldfajn.

Beyond Suriname and Guyana, the partnership

supports broader collaboration in common member countries and IDB member countries with significant Muslim populations, a press release read.

The MoU also aims to deepen cooperation between the two institutions in areas that promote inclusive growth, including trade and investment, as well as sustainable transportation solutions that enhance regional connectivity and climate resilience.

The institutions reaffirmed their shared commitment to knowledge sharing and delivering impactful development solutions, as well as strengthening cooperation among Latin America and the Caribbean, Gulf States, and other stakeholders.

The global observance of World Cities Day 2025 held in Bogota to mark new journey

ON October 31, World Cities Day, representatives from cities around the world gathered in Bogota, the capital of Colombia, to attend the Global Observance of World Cities Day 2025.

They jointly witnessed the presentation of the 3rd Global Award for Sustainable Development in Cities (Shanghai Award), and shared the achievements of urban sustainable development showcased in the English versions of the Shanghai Manual 2025 Annual Report, and the Shanghai Adapted Index Application Report.

FROM CONCEPT TO PRACTICE

From proposing the Expo 2010 Shanghai China, concept of “Better City, Better Life” to promoting the establishment of World Cities Day – the first international day themed on cities, Shanghai has always integrated the practical experience of building a “people-centered city” into its reflections on and contributions to the sustainable development of global cities.

Over the past decade and more, this international day has become a crucial platform for forging global consensus on urban sustainable development, and advancing the implementation of the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

From its initial proposal in Shanghai, to its expansion to numerous cities across five continents today, World Cities Day has witnessed a profound transformation of global cities from conceptual awareness to concrete action.

Standing at the starting point of a new decade, the hosting of the Global Observance of World Cities Day 2025 in Bogota, Colombia, not only serves as a review of achievements over the past decade, but also represents a vision for and a new start on the path of urban development in the future.

FROM INITIATIVE

TO SYSTEM

To inherit the World

Expo concept and its successful practices, upon the conclusion of Expo 2010

Shanghai China, the Expo Organising Committee and representatives of all participating parties jointly released the Shanghai Declaration. The declaration proposed

designating October 31 – the closing day of Expo 2010 Shanghai – as World Cities Day, and clearly defined “Better City, Better Life” as the overarching theme of this day.

In 2013, the 68th Session of the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution to establish World Cities Day. This marked the first international day initiated by the Chinese government and approved by the UN General Assembly, as well as the first UN international day themed on cities.

Through the joint efforts of China and international organisations such as UN-Habitat, the World Cities Day platform has gradually evolved.

It has launched a series of public goods, including the Global Award for Sustainable Development in Cities (Shanghai Award), developed and released the Shanghai Manual: A Guide for Sustainable Urban Development in the 21st Century, and established the Urban Monitoring Framework –Shanghai Adapted Index.

The number of participating countries and cities has been on the rise, the influence of its brand has continued to grow, and the network

of partners for World Cities Day has been expanding steadily.

In this process, Shanghai has gradually evolved from an initiator of concepts into a builder of the public goods system for global urban governance, contributing Chinese solutions to urban sustainable development that combine both theoretical depth and practical insights.

FROM SHANGHAI TO THE WORLD

The Global Award for Sustainable Development in Cities (Shanghai Award) is an international award jointly initiated and established by UN-Habitat and the Shanghai Municipal People’s Government. It also serves

as a key vehicle for Shanghai to actively participate in global governance and promote the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the New Urban Agenda.

Last year, the 2nd Global Award for Sustainable Development in Cities (Shanghai Award) was presented overseas for the first time.

The winning cities included Agadir (Morocco), Trivandrum (India), Doha (Qatar), Iztapalapa (Mexico), and Melbourne (Australia).

This year, the Shanghai Award is going abroad once again, which will further expand the global influence of China’s experience in urban sustainable development, and demonstrate the continuous

cooperation and leading role of China and the United Nations in the field of urban sustainable development.

On November 1, Shanghai will also co-host a thematic event for the Shanghai Award with UN-Habitat. Officials and representatives from the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, UN-Habitat, and the Shanghai Municipal People’s Government will attend the event and deliver speeches.

During the event, representatives from cities worldwide, academic institutions, and enterprises will share their experiences and practices focusing on areas related to the Shanghai Award and other sustainable development topics.

Excitement builds as Berbice ‘Expo’ opens today

Story and photos by Bebi

Shafeah Oosman

PRESIDENT of the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce (CCCC), Poonai Bhigroog has confirmed that this year’s Berbice ‘Expo’ promises to be the biggest and most exciting edition yet, with all exhibition spaces fully booked, and major improvements implemented for the comfort and safety of patrons.

The ‘expo’ will officially open its doors this afternoon, and run until Monday evening at the Rose Hall Community Centre Ground in East Canje Berbice.

“Presently, we have 180 exhibitors on board, as we are seeing here today, and I want to tell those who want to make the last minute to exhibit, there is no space; we cannot accommodate anyone. So, this year’s ‘expo’ is going to be even more exciting than previous years,” Mr. Bhigroog stated.

When this publication visited the venue on Wednesday, preparations were in full swing. Exhibitors were setting up their booths ahead of the opening.

“As you can see to my left, which should be your right, we have these exhibitors; they’re already setting up their booths. We have all the beverage companies; we have Suri, who was here last year with a lot of giveaways,” the CCCC president told this publication.

One of the key logistical improvements this year is expanded parking.

“I want to update you also about a very important thing, because one of the issues that we normally get at Canje is parking. So, this year, GuySuCo has given us some restriction to an extent, but [for] public parking when you come to Canje Ground, you can just drive a little bit; just a little bit up where the guest house is, and there is adequate parking for quite a number; a few hundred vehicles parking.

So if you're coming into the ground and you see it's kind of a little bit busy, don't be worried, you just drive up a little bit, and there will be people to direct you where

there will be free parking, and there will be security there to look after some of your interests in terms of the parking,” Mr. Bhigroog said. He noted that many exhibitors are working late into the night to complete their setups.

“Well, as you can see,” he said, “most people; quite a few are nearly already setting up. Tomorrow, you come here tomorrow, the same thing, a hive of activity. People will work late into the night, because, fortunately, we have floodlights here at Canje. So those coming from far, we have exhibitors from Georgetown and further afield; you can work late into the night. And our guys in the ground, I mean, we've been doing this for 19 years.

The electrician has been with us probably for the past 12–15 years, so it’s something like a routine now. So we are positive that our part, whatever we have to do, will be in place. So, anybody can come; your spots are already demarcated, you can now come right now, you know where you are, you just come and set up your booths.

SAFETY

Meanwhile, following concerns raised after last year’s event, the Chamber has put strong measures in place to ensure a safer environment. “Well, the system is that we have met with all the beverage companies who normally sell beverages and also the food vendors. And it's a strict, very, very, very strict contract we've signed with them that glass bottle is being prohibited on the ground. Right, so if the beverage company do bring bottles to the ground, they have to pour it out into cups,” Bhigroog said.

He acknowledged that in past years, a few individuals still managed to bring in glass bottles. He then made a direct appeal to patrons.

“This is a cricket ground, and this is an appeal I'm appealing to our patrons, to the public, please don't encourage those people who are not going to pour something out of bottles and give you. Don't support their business please. Plenty people know

-over 180 exhibitors confirmed, new parking arrangements, strict safety measures announced

us, so they will come and always report to us. There'll be the police there; members of the Chamber would be around, so you can always report to us. But we are very, very stricken that you could be thrown out of the ‘expo’ if you're guilty of having bottles; selling a bottle. And we are asking the public to be our eye and ear in this particular activity for the bottles not to be in the ground.”

Further, when asked why this year’s ‘Expo’ holds greater significance, Bhigroog pointed to the rapid transformation of the Berbice region. “Well, as you know, with the new-found oil in Guyana right now, Berbice is going places. I mean, there's a lot of development happening in Berbice. I mean, if we start from Palmyra, recently, we had a minister opening a new housing scheme on East Bank; a $7 billion project. We have the Exxon oil-and-gas school, which is near completion in a year or two.

We have the hospitality institute underway, we have the new four-lane road. So, we have to be prepared. I mean, we have to be prepared. We want people, we want business to come and showcase, to tell the public what's going on. We don't want people to be left behind. So we are paying a lot of emphasis on making this expo more, more, more.”

The Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce has hosted the ‘expo’ for 19 years, and this year’s edition is being described

as the most anticipated yet as it will be a reflection of Berbice’s growing role

in Guyana’s development story and the Chamber’s continued commitment to promoting local business and community engagement.

Deadly altercation accused pleads guilty to lesser count of manslaughter

SHAMIRIKA Gibson, 23, has pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter in the killing of Carol Davidson. The plea was entered before Chief Justice (ag) Navindra Singh at the High Court in Demerara.

Gibson, formerly of North-East La Penitence Squatting Area, Georgetown, had initially been indicted for murder but opted to admit to the reduced charge based on a statement of agreed facts presented to the court.

She is being represented by Attorney-at-Law Madan Kissoon, while the prosecution is being handled by State Counsel Simran Gajraj, Christopher Belfield, and Geneva Wills.

Chief Justice Singh approved Gibson’s guilty plea, and instructed that pre-sentencing reports—covering probation, prison conduct, and victim impact statements—be prepared to inform the sentencing decision.

The court further directed the prosecution to detail aggravating circumstances, while the defence is tasked with submitting mitigating factors for consideration.

Gibson will remain in custody until his sentencing on November 19, 2025.

According to the agreed facts, on June 6, 2022, 21-year-old Davidson was in a yard at East Ruimveldt Squatting Area, Georgetown, when Gibson and her sister

attacked her.

During the altercation, Gibson drew a knife from her jacket and inflicted a stab wound on Davidson. The victim ran to the back of the yard but collapsed shortly thereafter.

During the investigation, Gibson gave a video-recorded interview to the police detailing how she caused the injury, and also revisited the scene with investigators.

A post-mortem examination revealed that Davidson died from a perforation of the heart caused by the stab wound to her chest.

High Court grants extension of detention for suspects in deadly Regent Street blast

CRIME

CHIEF, Wendell Blanhum has confirmed that all nine suspects arrested in connection with Sunday’s deadly explosion at the Mobil Service Station on Regent and King Streets, Georgetown, remain in police custody as investigators continue to build the case.

On Thursday, detectives applied to the High Court for an extension of the detention period for eight of the suspects, and the request was granted by Chief Justice Navindra Singh. The ninth individual remains within the legal period of detention.

“All nine suspects remain in police custody” Blanhum confirmed The extension will allow investigators more time to pursue critical leads, including interviews, forensic examinations and intelligence analyses, as the probe widens into possible transnational links and local accomplices.

Authorities have confirmed that Venezuelan national Daniel Alexander

Ramirez Peodomoo, the prime suspect, remains cooperative and has confessed to planting the explosive device that killed six-year-old Soraya Bourne and injured four others.

The suspects are being held at various secure locations, with heightened joint security presence across the country and reinforced monitoring at border points and ports of exit, following directives from the Police Commissioner and the National Security Council.

Investigators continue to work with regional and international partners, including INTERPOL, to verify the suspect’s background and possible affiliations with criminal networks.

Speaking at a joint press conference on Tuesday evening, Blanhum said the identification was made by one of the suspect’s accomplices, effectively eliminating any doubt about his involvement.

“The prime suspect was positively identified by one of his accomplices. Moreover, the suspect, as I men-

tioned before, confessed his involvement in this particular crime. There is no issue about identification any longer,” Blanhum stated.

Peodomoo, a Venezuelan national, was arrested on Tuesday during a coordinated operation in Vergenoegen, East Bank Essequibo.

According to investigators, Peodomoo entered Guyana illegally on the morning of the explosion and is believed to be affiliated with a Venezuelan criminal network known as the Syndicato gang.

Blanhum said Peodomoo arrived in the country at around 08:00 hours on Sunday, carrying the explosive device used in the attack.

Surveillance footage captured him walking into the Regent and King Streets gas station compound with two bulky black plastic bags.

Moments later, the explosion ripped through the area, killing Bourne and injuring four of her relatives-Jenica Hooper (27), Yvonne Jonas (71), Seddia McIntosh, and Reshard Lord (11)—who

were seated in the vehicle.

The blast also damaged several other vehicles and nearby buildings.

The Crime Chief confirmed that the suspect has been co-operating with investigators and provided details of the incident, including how he activated a switch to detonate the device after leaving the scene.

“Among other things that he mentioned to us is that the device… he brought it in

from Venezuela to Guyana. He also indicated that the device had a switch, which he activated when he exited the vehicle, which was parked within the vicinity of the gas station,” Blanhum said.

He added that investigators are working to determine whether the act was part of a larger organised operation or a lone-wolf attack, noting that nine persons remain in police custody, including Venezuelan and

Guyanese nationals. Authorities have since indicated that the suspect will face multiple charges, including terrorism, murder, attempted murder and arson, pending legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

Prior to his capture, police had issued a Wanted Bulletin for Peodomo and announced a $5 million reward for credible information leading to his arrest.

Brook lost for answers as NZ hand England another ODI ‘hammering’

(ESPNCRICINFO) - Harry Brook conceded his side had been "hammered" by New Zealand, with the white-ball captain at a loss to explain England's struggles in the format.

For the first time during Brook's tenure as captain, he failed to hide his disappointment after England slipped to a sixth ODI series defeat in seven and the second of his brief captaincy career.

For all the talk of wanting to entertain, Brook's disappointment was tangible as he responded to a question as to whether the result in Hamilton was the first time he had been frustrated with

his players.

"It's disappointing, isn't it," Brook said. "You go round every single player there and you think, 'bloody hell, there aren't many teams that they don't get into in the world'. It's disappointing we haven't performed as well as we could. It happens. They've played well and sometimes you've got to hold your hand up and say they've been the better team." England were bowled out for 175 in the second ODI, three days after they had fallen to 234 all out at Mount Maunganui - a total saved by Brook's own superb 135.

It is a concerning trend for an England side who have been bowled out in seven of their eight away ODIs this year. In a remarkable statistic that was raised on the Wisden Cricket Weekly podcast, in 2025 they have failed to reach 250 in any innings where Joe Root hasn't made a half-century himself. Furthermore, their commitment to "going hard" is borne out by the fact that when batting first this year, they have either made 350, or failed to bat their overs.

For years, England had the excuse of their frontline players rarely competing in the ODI format, and the consequent difficulties that players face when adapting back to the format. That excuse doesn't hold this year, with a settled batting line-up who have been available throughout. Furthermore, with five of England's ODI top six also in the Test squad, the theory is that their natural attacking game should be well suited to the rhythms of one-day cricket, although this has also failed to be the case.

"It's not too dissimilar to the way we play Test cricket, really," Brook said of the difficulties of switching formats. "We play aggressively in Test cricket and it's not too far off. Obviously we haven't played much one-day cricket in the last however many years. I can't quite put my finger on why we haven't batted well enough. It's just one of those things. You come to play the second-best team in the world on their own patch and they've ham-

Harry Brook walks back after his dismissal in the second ODI • Getty Images mered us."

Brook also refused to be drawn on losing both tosses against New Zealand, where the chance to bowl first in the opening ODI at Mount Maunganui would have been a significant advantage.

"That's just an excuse," Brook said. "I haven't won many tosses, I'd have liked to have had a bowl today [in Hamilton] but that's just an excuse. Everybody in that batting line-up is good enough to be able to face a swinging and seaming ball, cope with that and score runs against that."

There was one promising sign for England during the second ODI, with Jofra Archer returning to England colours for the first time this winter and producing a

fantastic display of bowling where he claimed three for 23 from his ten overs.

Having only arrived in the country a few days previously, Archer's speeds were high as he averaged 88mph across his first spell. There was one moment of concern, when Archer appeared to injure himself diving for a ball in the outfield, but it later transpired that he had merely winded himself heavily, and he returned soon after to bowl out his remaining overs.

"He's gone back-to-back five-over spells there, after just getting off the plane a few days ago," Brook said.

"So hopefully he recovers alright. But thankfully he did run in for me. That's all I asked from him, and he was bowling wheels. He's going

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to be good to touch for the rest of this winter."

England will hope to respond to the series defeat in a similar manner to how they bounced back in their last ODI against South Africa in September, where they put on 414 for 5, a game which Brook hopes they can take confidence from.

"It's disappointing for the fans, who want to watch us, we entertain people, because they know that we play such an exciting brand of cricket.

"It was only a couple of games ago against South Africa in the summer when we got 400, so we're not a million miles away. It's just about a couple of scores here and there and then we nail it down and hopefully we do find that template."

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Windies looking for series sweep against Bangladesh

THE West Indies will look for a rare series sweep today when they face Bangladesh.

Alick Athanaze credited West Indies’ bowlers for rescuing the team after another night of unforced errors in Chattogram with the bat and in the field, as they sealed their first T20I series win in 14 months.

The opener’s fifty and 105-run stand with Shai Hope set up a strong platform, but West Indies collapsed from 106 for 1, losing 8 for 43 and leaving Bangladesh chasing a modest total.

Four dropped catches made matters worse, yet the bowlers bailed West Indies out. The 150 that Bangladesh fell short of was lowest target they had ever failed to chase in Chattogram. Athanaze said West Indies’ bowlers controlled the scor-

ing in the powerplay, which helped them build run-rate pressure on Bangladesh.

“Our bowlers showed their class again,” Athanaze said. “We bowled very well. They showed why we are one of the best T20 sides in the world.

“I felt the pitch got better. The dew has a lot of effect on the pitch. We took the total in our stride. We wanted to make a good start with the ball. We weren’t the best in the field, but the bowlers showed their class. They picked up wickets and restricted them.

“Once you control the powerplay, it gets difficult (to score) when the field is spread. We tried our best to utilise our bowlers. We know they are not big power-hitters down the ground, so we tried our best to plan for them.”

Tanzid Hasan, who also

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Friday October 31, 2025)

CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) WI won by 16 runs (2) Rovman Powell (WI)

Today’s Quiz: (1) What was the result of the second T20 in the recent WI/BANG series? (2) Who was voted Man of the Match?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

scored a fifty, felt Bangladesh should have chased down their target. He said the batters would themselves have to find a way out of the run-scoring struggle that they’ve now endured for a considerable length of time.

“I thought regardless of the wicket, we should have chased 150,” Tanzid said. “It was the batters’ failure. We couldn’t take responsibility. I think it was a bad day for the batters.

I think we have to find a way to minimise playing dot balls. We haven’t achieved consistency of late. The batting is not clicking. We have

to find ways to rotate strike and play bigger knocks. The batters have to find a way out of this.”

Many of Bangladesh’s batters in this game looked to be caught in two minds.

Jaker Ali’s return to the side was riddled with questions given his form. He made 17 off 18 balls at a stage when the asking runrate was rapidly rising. Tanzid said he tried to remind Jaker about his Player-ofthe-Match performance in the third T20I in Kingstown last year.

“Jaker bhai helped us win in the West Indies,” Tanzid said. “I told him

that he had won us a game against West Indies, so he can do it again. I told him that if we stuck together as a pair, we could have won the game. I think I had the bigger responsibility, but I couldn’t perform up to expectations.

“We have a world-class bowling department. They usually restrict the opposition on any wicket. The batters must follow how the bowlers have helped the team and taken the team forward. Responsibility is for everyone in the team. We have to do well as a batting unit.”

“You have to give credit to the Bangladeshi bowlers,” he said. “A lot of emphasis is on us not batting well but I felt they bowled really well.

They spun the ball and bowled slower. In his first and second spells, Rishad Hossain understood how to bowl on this wicket. It also gave us the indication how to bowl as well. They bowled very well in the back end. They caught very well too.”

The final T20I of the series is in Chattogram on Friday.

Athanaze also praised the Bangladesh bowling attack and fielding.

India make history as Rodrigues and Harmanpreet end Australia’s reign

IT was a movie India had seen many times. A tricky run chase. Jemimah Rodrigues and Harmanpreet Kaur with a rescue act. That raising the prospect of an upset win in a knockout game against Australia. Only, this time at the Women's World Cup 2025, the ending was different.

Rodrigues ran towards Amanjot Kaur. She lifted her up, and then bent down and lay next to the pitch. She was soon swarmed by her team-mates who came charging in, perhaps faster than the speed of light, as

India made only their third World Cup final, their first since 2017.

Importantly, India dealt Australia their first defeat in 16 ODI World Cup matches.

Faced with a record runchase in women's ODIs, India rode on an unbeaten century from Rodrigues and an 89 from Harmanpreet to hunt down their target of 339 with nine balls to spare.

This will be the first ODI World Cup final to not feature either Australia or England, as India will face South Africa on Sunday. The 34,651 at the DY Patil

Stadium on Thursday sure got their money's worth.

The end might have been vastly different had Alyssa Healy managed to hold on to a skier from Rodrigues when she was on 82. India needed 131 from 106 balls at that point.

About three hours earlier, though, Phoebe Litchfield had put on an exhibition that left the crowd, bathed in blue, in awe and silence in equal measure for most of the afternoon.

Her maiden World Cup century aided with half-centuries from Ellyse

OKC’s Topic begins chemo for cancer

(BBC) - NBA player Nikola Topic, a guard with Oklahoma City Thunder, has started chemotherapy treatment after being diagnosed with testicular cancer.

The 20-year-old Serb underwent a procedure on 6 October at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston to take a biopsy.

Thunder general manager Sam Presti said doctors were "extremely positive" about Topic's long-term health.

"The results of the biopsy have been returned and he is dealing with a case of testicular cancer," said Presti.

"Tope didn't want to make this information public until he had begun the actual treatments, which he has recently. He's been in here, he's training, he's working out - through this entire process he's been able to do that.

"He has a tremendous group of oncologists, and they are extremely positive about his outlook in dealing with the situation."

Presti did not put a times-

cale on when he expected Topic to be back playing and added: "Our only expectations for him are to focus on this.

"This is his most important priority. He'll be back playing basketball when he's able to, but we're not putting any time length or expecta-

tions on that.

"He has our total support, encouragement and love."

Topic was the 12th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft but suffered a serious injury to his left knee and did not play in the 2024-25 season as the Thunder won the NBA Championship.

Perry and Ashleigh Gardner helped Australia get to 338. India pulled things back by taking 8 for 118 towards the end, which proved to be vital.

With a record chase in front, Smriti Mandhana walked out with a new (old) opening partner in Shafali Verma.

The latter began in typical style, hitting Megan Schutt for a four off the second ball she faced. But the near-housefull crowd was silenced after Kim Garth trapped her lbw, with India also losing a review. It wasn't until the seventh over that Mandhana hit her first boundary, a lofted straight six off Garth. Rodrigues, in at No. 3 after Harleen Deol was dropped, wasted little time in getting going. However, when India lost a second wicket in Mandhana inside the tenth over, you could hear a pin drop at the DY Patil Stadium. Given not out for a caught-behind down leg side, Australia used

the DRS with Snicko returning the faintest of murmurs.

India were 60 for 2 after the powerplay, as opposed to Australia's 72 for 1. That is when Rodrigues and Harmanpreet set about with the rebuild. Rodrigues' flow allowed Harmanpreet to get her eye in. And that was not at the cost of the scoring rate. India constantly scored at around six runs per over, never letting the ask get out of hand.

Rodrigues got to a 57ball half-century, and Harmanpreet got to hers in 65 balls.

While the other captains have had vital contributions in this campaign, Harmanpreet's best was her 70 against England, her wicket helping the opposition open an end up. But in the semi-final against Australia, she was not going to let another ripe chance go begging.

She only hit her first six after her fifty - a loft inside out over extra cover off Tahlia McGrath. She followed

that with another humongous hit off Gardner over midwicket in the next over. India needed only 150 in the last 20 overs, a regulation chase in this era.

But Harmanpreet's wicket threatened to add a twist to the tale. Deepti Sharma was run out for 24 off 17. Richa Ghosh came in, hit two fours and two sixes to reduce the margin before she fell. But India were not going to let Harmanpreet and Rodrigues' 167-run partnership off just 156 balls go waste. They were helped with another dropped chance - Tahlia McGrath reprieving Rodrigues on 106.

The platform was set and this time, India wouldn't miss out. Not with a determined Rodrigues, who scored her maiden World Cup hundred off 114 balls. She did not celebrate then because the task at hand was still not complete. In the end, nobody could stop her from celebrating.

Juventus appoint former Italy manager Spalletti

(BBC) - Juventus have appointed former Italy head coach Luciano Spalletti as their manager until the end of the season.

The 66-year-old replaces Igor Tudor, who was sacked after the Serie A side's defeat by Lazio on Sunday. Tudor had joined the club in March as Thiago Motta's replacement but left after seven months at the end of an eight-match winless run.

Spalletti led Napoli to the Serie A title in 2022-23 before taking charge of Italy, who had failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup under former boss Roberto Mancini.

He helped them qualify for Euro 2024 where they were knocked out in the last 16 by Switzerland.

However, Spalletti was sacked by Italy in June after a World Cup qualifying defeat by Norway, with the Azzurri at risk of missing out on a third consecutive

World Cup.

Spalletti has also managed Inter Milan, Roma and Udinese in Serie A and won the Russian

League

Massimo Brambilla took interim charge of Juventus for their 3-1 win against Udi-

phase of the Champions League, having lost once and drawn twice in their opening three matches.

Brusches Basketball Classic Georgetown sides Ravens and Eagles through to semi-finals

TOP ranked Georgetown club Ravens stopped Kwakwani, 80-61, while Eagles knocked out Pacesetters 68-49, to reach the semi-finals of this year’s Brusches Classic Men’s Basketball Championship which continued Wednesday night at the Retrieve Hard Court in Linden.

The winners now clash tomorrow (Saturday) in the first semi-final while the second semi-final is between Linden’s number one team Victory Valley Royals and Amelia’s Ward Jets.

To advance to this year’s final four, Ravens outplayed Kwakwani as they led when the first quarter ended 17-14 and at the end of the first half were ahead 37-30.

In a big third quarter showing where they netted 25 points and held Kwakwani to 14 points, to be in control 63-44; Ravens would eventually triumph 80-61, as they maintained advantage,

18-17, in the fourth quarter period of play.

This win by Ravens was centred on the scoring of Emani Charles’ second half game high burst of 16 points, while teammates Alroy Nurse 14, and Akil Hodges and Nikkolai Smith both added 11.

For Kwakwani, Martin Thomas played well to score 21 points.

In the other game of the night between two other Georgetown clubs, Eagles flew past Pacesetters 68-49, following a pivotal third quarter showing when they outpaced their rivals 26-8, to open a close 42-41 half-time score.

The Eagles unit’s final charge came from the efforts of Travis Belgrave’s 23 game high points, as Sheton Gillis hit in 14 and Zian Grain 12 points.

Neon Boyer had the top score for the Pacesetters side with 10 points.

Eagles in red on the offensive end against Pacesetters in lime green defending Wednesday night

Eight teams set to compete 2025

O-40 Big Man Cricket T20 playoffs

AFTER four weeks of intense competition, the playoffs will showcase the top eight teams emerging from six preliminary rounds nationwide in the over-40 Big Man Cricket (BMC) T20 tournament.

The first quarter-final at Port Mourant will see the undefeated Albion Masters facing off with the West Bank Warriors.

The Albion contest features former West Indies players Devendra Bishoo and Sewnarine Chattergoon, Royston Crandon and former National player Michael Chinsammy.

In contrast, the West Bank Warriors, while lacking national or international players, bring a wealth of experience with key players like Deoram Persaud, Seenarine Mathura, Anthony Ifill, Chabiraj Ramcharran,

Sham Persaud, and Krishna Singh.

This matchup promises to be thrilling, with Albion Masters favoured to advance to the semi-finals.

Quarter-final two at the Jai Hind Ground will showcase a huge clash between Everest Masters and host Jai Hind Jaguars.

Jai Hind has only suffered one defeat in the league stage and is expected to deliver a strong performance, led by centurion Vinode Samaroo and former Guyana player Vejai Seonarine, who is also a current Windies masters’ player, alongside a robust line-up including Imran Khan, Ravi Mangali, Zamin Zakeir, and Rudolph Latcha.

Everest Masters, meanwhile, boasts a star-studded roster with former West Indies keeper Dinesh Ramdin

and former Test player Ryan Ramdass, as well as other seasoned players like Vic Mahabeer, Rajendra Chandrika, Darwin Christian, Vishan Lall, Trevon Garraway, Lawrence Farnum, Hemraj Garbarran, Antonnel Atwell, and experienced players such as Sahadeo Hardaiow, Rohan Sarjoo, Basil Persaud, and Bheemraj Ramkelawan, making squad selection a challenging task.

Blairmont ground will host quarter-final three, featuring the Hunters against the Vintage Strikers. While this match may lack some of the big stars from other teams, both squads are formidable and capable of delivering strong performances.

Vintage Strikers will rely on the talents of Trevor and Troy Benn, along with centurion Richard Latif and Chien Gittens.

The Hunters will look to their captain, Shabeer Baksh and other consistent players like Balram Samaroo and Mark Sampson for a strong showing.

Quarter-final four at the Police Ground will feature the unbeaten North Soesdyke Masters taking on the

competitive

North Soesdyke boasts former West Indies players, Captain Assad Fudadin and Christopher Barnwell, as well as talented youth and first-class players, including Abilaish Dookie and Delbert Hicks, along with Deputy

Windies looking for series sweep against Bangladesh