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Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly

…atleast62killedsincedawn,about6,000homelessSaturday

Few changes to Pres. Ali’s Cabinet

Manickchand moves to Local Govt., Parag heads to Education, Oneidge takes charge of Home Affairs

Keoma Griffith, Steven Jacobs, Sarah Browne among new faces

Canadian firm secures C$49M to advance gold exploration in Guyana

To advance its gold exploration in Guyana, Canadian gold company G2 Goldfields has secured a non-brokered private placementofC$49,500,000.

According to the company, the placement is up to 15,000,000 common shares at a price of C$3.30 per share. It was explained that the proceeds are expected to be used for continued exploration and development of the mineral propertiesinGuyanaandfor general working capital and generalcorporatepurpose.

Daniel Noone, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Director of G2 said, “The completion of this Offering, backed by the continuedsupportofourtwo largest shareholders, places the Company in a strong financial position ahead of deliveringonkeymilestones inthefourthquarterof2025, including the updated Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) and Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA).”

Noone added, “Their confidence underscores the qualityofourassetsandour near-term strategy, and with

this strengthened balance sheet,wearewellpositioned to advance our projects and deliver value to all shareholders.”

In a press release dated August 28, the company announced that the Ministry of Natural Resources and Guyana Geology and Mines Commission approved the issuance of two large-scale ProspectingLicences(PL).

G2 noted that the PL’s encompass G2’s high-grade Oko-Ghanie Gold Deposit which is located in Guyana. The PL encompass the Oko and Ghanie Deposits, 1.5 million ounces indicated at 3.40 g/t Au and 1.6 million ounces inferred at 2.48 g/t Au,withacombinedareaof approximately 17,451 acres and replace 11 separate medium-scale mining permits previously held in the name of Guyanese entrepreneurs through optionagreements.

Continuedonpage6

Kaieteur News

Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.

Publisher: DR. GLENN LALL - TEL: 624-6456

Editor-In-Chief: NIGEL WILLIAMS

Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

President Ali declares another war

PresidentIrfaanAliisreadyingforanotherbattle. Firstly, hedeclaredwarondomesticviolence. Secondly,hedeclared war on corruption. More recently, he declared war on poverty Forwhatisa‘crusade’ifnotofastatementofintent, ofwardeclared?

ThosearewarsthatwouldpleaseeveryGuyaneseheart, because domestic violence, corruption, and poverty are draining the spirit out of this nation and its peoples. The president is getting better and better at making inspiring promises. Hischallengeistodeliverinamannerthatmakes sense,thatpersuadesGuyaneseacrossthespectrumthatheis genuine,andthathemeansbusiness. Inotherswords,heis nottalkingforthesakeoftalking.

PovertyisaseriousmatterinGuyana,astwooutofevery fiveGuyanesecanconfirm. Itcouldbeashighasoneintwo, butnoonecansaywithcertainty,sincethereissuchadearth of official statistics. There is enough evidence from the environment that supports assertions that Guyanese experiencethegreatestdifficultyinbuyingbasicfooditems. Whensomanycitizensstruggletobuyfoodtosurviveinone oftherichestcountriesintheworldpercapita,thenthathasto be an embarrassment for the leader and government in controlofthereins. Whenacountryrankssohighindailyoil production per capita, and its citizens still cannot afford to buyfood,thentheirgovernmenthasfailedthem.

Like many Guyanese, we think that the government’s misplaced priorities left citizens at the bottom of the economicladderinworseshapethanbefore. Thedemandfor foodsuppliestofeedworkerstheoffshoreoilinfrastructure hasledtohigherprices,andonandoffscarcityofgreensand vegetables only added to prices pressures, and the pain of ordinaryGuyanese.

Thepresidentisawareofthis,andsoaremanymembers ofhisgovernment. Insteadoffocusingexclusivelyonhowto provide relief to hard hit Guyanese, the record is of a government that thought it was a better idea to attack those whoweresteeringitsattentiontotheconditionofthepoorin Guyana. In an age when the world speaks profusely about Guyana’s oil prosperity, there shouldn’t be conversations about Guyanese living at or below the poverty line. There wouldbeasimplereasonforthat:povertydoesn’texist,orif itdid,itwasatanextremelynegligiblelevel.

Wedon’tknowwhyPresidentAlihaschangedhistune, andisnowupinarmsagainstlocalpoverty Thelowvoter turnoutatthelastelectionscouldbeonereason,butevenifit isn’t,povertyconditionsthatdrivefearinGuyanesestillhave to be dealt with. The fact that the president is going after poverty with a vengeance can only be viewed as a positive development.

Onceheiscommittedtoeradicatingpoverty,oreasingits blight, then there is hope that things will be better for the poorercitizensofthisnowgloballyrecognizedoilproducing nation. Thepresidentspokeofcost-of-livingreliefmeasures that could be soon introduced. We wait with guarded anticipation to determine what form those would take, how widespread they will be, and how sustained such measures. From his own energy levels, food security is one of the president’spriorities,andhehasincludedthataspartofhis poverty amelioration efforts. Whatever the form in which relieffrompovertycomes,itwillbeaccepted,solongasitis provides inspiration that real help is involved, and that it wouldbelasting.

War on poverty, or relief from the gnawing bite of poverty, cannot be another of those verbose speeches from PresidentAli. Ifthereisonecommitment,oneprogramme, onwhichhewillbeheldaccountable,itisanythatinvolves dealing in a comprehensive and credible manner with poverty His government has an opportunity, a rare and extended second chance, to deliver on poverty The worst thing that the president could do is to walk back his words, and leave impoverished Guyanese to fend for themselves. His leadership record would be blemished, and his governmentmadetopayaprice.

Kaieteur

Continuing the aggressive fight in “Changing the Narrative on Suicide”

DEAREDITOR,

On September 10, Guyana and the world at large observed ‘World SuicidePreventionDay’and country is promising a ‘strong commitment’ to ‘Mental Health Reform ’ Guyana realises that ‘indeed a concerted effort is needed for ‘Suicide Prevention’and this year, it was under the theme “Changing the NarrativeonSuicide.”Asthe Ministry of Health pointed out, this year’s theme challenges governments, institutions, families, and individualstotransformhow suicide is discussed and addressedwithinsociety

In this regard, I think we should acknowledge that suicideisaverymajorpublic health challenge, across all

nations, as suicidal deaths account for nearly 720 000 people every year, and vital to note is that each life lost has profound social, emotional, and economic consequences, that deeply affect families, friends, workplaces, and entire communities around the world.

Just look at this, and see why it is fitting that Guyana stay focus on fighting suicide. The 720 000 plus peoplewhodieduetosuicide every contribute statistically to make suicide the third leading cause of death among 15–29-year-olds This is a big blow to future generation. Also, seventythree per cent of global suicidesoccurinlow-middle income countries Even

graver is that for every suicide,therearemanymore people who actually attempt suicide, and it is wellestablished that a prior suicide attempt is an important risk factor for suicide in the general population, and of course, this is being addressed as well.

The reasons for suicide still seem baffling and overall, these are multifaceted, being influenced by things like social, cultural, biological, psychological, and environmental factors present across the lifecourse. No wonder Guyana is so committed in its effort andinvestmentinthisarea.

In recent years, the Ministry of Health has shown notable progress in

suicide prevention and mental health care. We may recall that “mental health catering” was emphasised within the Guyana 2025 Budget(tothetuneof$143.2 billion) for things like drug p r o c u r e m e n t a n d infrastructure. Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony, at that time of the Budget presentation, did state that mental health will be a critical aspect of the public health system, as triggered by available scientific research on the country’s existing mental health challenges.

Another thing that we must remember is that in November2022,thepassage of the seminal Suicide PreventionActmeantthe Continued on page 5

Kaieteur M@ilbox Kaieteur M@ilbox

Everybody looking for something

DEAREDITOR,

In this country, it is not unusual to see sudden crossoversfromonepartyto another PNC members who now wear the PPP’s colours, or individuals who, after years of silence, have found their voices loudly in support of the government. Some call it opportunism, others call it survival. But beneath it all lies a deeper reality:everybodyislooking forsomething.

The pressures of powerlessness are real When opportunities are scarce and advancement feels out of reach, people make choices they once thought unthinkable Dependency on political

patronage becomes a strategy, not a betrayal Aligningwiththoseinpower is,formany,theonlyvisible path to secure a job, a contract, or even a measure ofdignity

When you see persons like “The Guyanese Critic” and many others somehow magically qualify and receive contracts for civil worksandservicestheyhave nopriorexperiencein,itcan motivate one to reconsider their current political allegiance. This is not just about politicshowever—itisabout limitations people face in improving their overall quality of life within their ownlifetime.Whensystems

lock out innovation and when growth is uneven, loyaltybendsinthedirection of survival. Crossing over is not simply about switching parties; it is about trying to cross over from struggle to stability, from exclusion to opportunity

Rather than condemning individualsfortheirchoices, perhaps the larger question weshouldbeaskingis:what kindofsocietyhavewebuilt, where survival so often depends on political allegiance? Until we answer that, the shifting voices and loyalties we see today will remain a symptom of somethingmuchdeeper

Yourstruly, A.

Ositin

Continuing the aggressive fight...

Frompage4

‘decriminalizing’ of attempted suicide This pivotallawnotonlyremoved a legal barrier but also reduced traditional and silly stigma surrounding the issue. We know too that the act led to a number of good things, such as the establishment of a National Suicide Prevention Commission, the launch of the Government National Mental Health Action Plan and Suicide Prevention Plan 2024–2030,thelaunchingof 915, the first 24/7 National SuicidePreventionHelpline, which provides for a confidential ‘crisis i n t e r v e n t i o n ’ a n d ‘community’ mental health supportsystem.

Even before all of this, between April and May 2024, more than 750 Gatekeepers were trained across all 10 regions to identify and respond to suicidal behaviour, and this was in partnership with the International Development and Relief Foundation (IDRF) and Global Affairs Canada.

Let me not belabour the

point, as I think that no one candoubtthatGuyanaisina good phase in terms of acknowledging the seriousness of suicide, and aggressively seeking to counterit.

To these kinds of inputs, the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) has already recognised the country’s significant decline in suicide rates in recent times,andthuscommending the country’s integrated and compassionateapproach.

As far as I know, the triennial theme for World Suicide Prevention Day (2024–2026) is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide”. This theme means that we need, personally and collectively, to ‘challenge harmful myths, reduce stigma, and foster open, c o m p a s s i o n a t e conversationsaboutsuicide.’ It is very vital that a shift in mindset take place-from s i l e n c e a n d misunderstanding to openness, empathy, and support, and so create a fraternizing environment, where people feel

Thank You, Mr. President – But One Demerara Bridge Is Not Enough

DEAR

MR.PRESIDENT,

I wish to express my sincere thanks and appreciation for your government’s commitment to improving Guyana’s infrastructure, particularly through the construction of the new Demerara Harbour Bridge.

This is a critical national development project that will greatly improve traffic flow,reducetraveltime,and facilitate economic growth. It is a long-overdue project that the people of Guyana, especially those on the West Demerara,aregratefultosee finallyunderway

However, as the country c o n t i n u e s t o grow—especially with the rapid development taking place along the West Bank and West Coast it is

comfortable to talk about their situation and turn for accompanyinghelp.

My plea is that we must not let World Suicide Prevention Day be just anotheroccasion.

Weneedtobebehindthe MinistryofHealthasthecall goesouttoallcitizens“…to continue breaking the silence surrounding mental health(as)weallhavearole to play in changing the narrative by replacing silence with understanding, stigmawithcompassion,and punishmentwithcare.”Let’s rememberthateverysuicide is a tragedy, and to some degreeamystery

Thewordisthat“Suicide often stems from a deep feeling of hopelessness.The inability to see solutions to problems or to cope with c h a l l e n g i n g l i f e circumstances may lead people to see taking their own lives as the only solution to what is really a temporary situation, and most survivors of suicide attempts go on to live full, rewardinglives.

Yourstruly, RaymondAnderson

important to look ahead While the new bridge is a much-needed improvement, the reality is that one crossing over the Demerara Riverwillstillnotbeenough inthenearfuture.

Irespectfullyproposethe consideration of a second bridge crossing further upriver, perhaps closer to Land of Canaan or Timehri. This alternative route would provideastrategicbypassfor commuters heading to the Cheddi Jagan International

Airport and upriver locations, allowing them to avoid t

altogether

Such a development would not only alleviate pressure on the new bridge and the East Bank highway but also support the longtermvisionofdecentralizing

economic activity and urban growth.

With the significant expansion of residential housing, industrial zones, and commercial activity on the West Bank, a single bridgeisunlikelytomeetthe future demands of a rapidly developingGuyana.

A second bridge further inland would be a wise and forward-thinkinginvestment in national mobility and resilience.

It would reflect a proactive approach to development rather than a reactiveone.

Once again, thank you for the progress we are seeing. I encourage your government to continue thinking boldly about Guyana’s infrastructure future.

Renal

Yusuf

Mae’s School: M&CC decisions must be in the best interest of the children

DEAREDITOR,

Please permit me to add my voice to the ongoing Mae’s School matter, as a former long-standing residentofSubryanvillewho still visits regularly and maintains close ties to the community

Any decision by the MayorandCouncillorsmust be guided first and foremost bywhatisinthebestinterest ofthechildren.

In my view, uprooting them at this stage would be harmfulandshouldonlyever beconsideredasalastresort. The children are certainly

still dealing with the trauma ofthefire.

While I fully empathise with the concerns of residents, I remind us that, for many decades, Subryanville has lived with the familiar sounds of children passing, playing, andlaughing,alongwiththe long lines of traffic and the blaringofhorns.

These have, in some sense,beenpartofourshared experience of living in the community

If the proprietors give a clear undertaking that the present installation is

temporary, then they should be held to their word and afforded the time and space torebuild.Ayearisafairand reasonable period within which to do so A ‘Monitoring Team’ could oversee and enforce the process.

I believe compromise is possible, and I trust that the school,themunicipality,and the residents will work together to find a solution thatbalancestheconcernsof all while putting the children’swelfarefirst.

Sincerely, RaphaelTrotman

GDF Col. General Staff excels in UK’s Global Strategy Programme

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF), on Saturday, congratulated Colonel General Staff, Colonel KenlloydRoberts,MSM,on successfully completing the Global Strategy Programme 2025attheRoyalCollegeof Defence Studies (RCDS), London,UnitedKingdom. The Global Strategy

Programme is one of the world’s most esteemed

educationcourses,gathering over one hundred senior m

, government officials, and private sector leaders from forty-seven countries, i

Kingdom.

The postgraduate Global S

understanding and the capacity for strategic thinking through rigorous analysis of the international security agenda; the levers that provide for security, stability and prosperity; and the key tenets of leadership

atthenationalstrategiclevel. Accordingtoastatement posted by the GDF on its Facebookpage,theaimisto produce senior leaders who understand the international strategic context, are skilled in analysis, and can work across national, cultural, and ideological boundaries They canalsoleadorcontributeto developing strategies at the highestlevels.

“T

Roberts distinguished himself as a dedicated, thoughtful,andcollaborative leader He was commended f o r c o

s t e n t l y demonstrating intellectual depth, his reflective leadershipstyle,hisabilityto offerclearstrategicinsights, and his skill in fostering constructive dialogue across diverse cultural and professional perspectives His contributions were e

n discussions on small-state strategic positioning and m

y cooperation,areasthatareof particular importance to

Guyana and the wider Caribbeanregion.”

GDF said, Colonel Roberts’s academic work and professional contributions were consistently praised for their analytical depth, critical reasoning, and practical application to contemporary strategic issues He was also recognised for his performance in strategic exercises and syndicate w o r k , w h e r e h e demonstrated confidence, sound judgement, and the ability to lead with tact and vision. “During his year at RCDS, Col Roberts also pursued his third Master’s, an MA in International Security and Strategy at King’s College London. His efforts demonstrate his personal d

Colonel General Staff, Colonel Kenlloyd Roberts, MSM

enhanced expertise and expanded international networkofstrategicpartners will bolster Guyana’s voice in regional and global security discussions, supporting the advancement of the country’s national interests,GDFadded.

dication, intellectual ability, and professional excellence, while emphasising the GDF’s commitment to preparingitsofficerstomeet the highest international standards,”GDFsaid. Colonel Roberts’

The Chief of Defence Staff,BrigadierOmarKhan, MSS,alongwiththeofficers and ranks of the GDF, extended heartfelt congratulations to Colonel General Staff, Colonel Kenlloyd Roberts, on this significant achievement and wishes him continued success as he continues to uphold the banner of professionalism, leadership, andservicetoGuyana.

Motorcyclist killed in Charity accident

A 2 7 - y e a r - o l d motorcyclist, on Saturday, was killed after his motorcycle collided with a car along the Charity New Road, Essequibo Coast, RegionTwo.

The victim has been identified as Daniel Gray, a resident of Somerset and Berks,EssequiboCoast.

According to the police, theaccidentoccurredaround 15:20hrstodayandinvolved motorcycle#CP9109owned and driven by Alex Jaigopaul, 31, from the E s s e q u i b o C o a s t ; motorcycle CP 1974, which was owned and driven by Gray, and motorcar #PAC 697, driven by Patrick Murray,a24-year-oldPastor fromCharity Police revealed that the car and the two motorcycles

Frompage3

were all proceeding east on the northern driving lane withthecarinfrontfollowed bybothmotorcycles.

Reports are that the two motorcyclists were riding side by side when it was allegedbyMurraythatheput on his vehicle right side indicatortoturnsouthoffthe public road to enter a Chinesesupermarket.

“As a result, the two motorcyclists collided with the right-side portion of the car, causing both of them to beflungintheairandlanded onthesouthernparapetofthe supermarket Both motorcyclists received injuries about their bodies,” policesaid.

Theinjuredmenwereall were taken to the Oscar Joseph Charity Cottage Hospital, for treatment

Notably, the PLhave a three-year term with two renewal rights for one year each and provides for the right of occupation and exclusive right to explore for gold and preciousminerals.G2notedthatoverthelast two years, comprehensive environmental baseline studies have been conducted via third party consultants. The company noted that these studies were designed to recommend actions for effective project design,regulatorycomplianceandtosupport the preparation of an Environmental Social

Police shared that Jaigopaul was admitted for multiple fractures to his left foot and Murray for injuries to his face They were both transferred to the Lima RegionalHospitalforfurther medicalattention. Meanwhile, Gray was pronounced dead on arrival a t t h e h o s p i t a l Investigationsareongoing.

ImpactAssessment(ESIA).

In March, G2 announced an Updated Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) for the Oko property: Oko Main Zone (OMZ): 808,000 ounces indicated and 513,500 ounces inferred gold (open pit + underground);GhanieZone:663,400ounces indicatedand1,024,500ouncesinferredgold and Oko NW Zone: 97,200 ounces inferred (open pit). The MRE, prepared by Micon International Limited, highlights the Oko district’s potential, which has been a prolific alluvialgoldfieldsincethe1870s.

Guyana, Suriname to iron out outstanding legal, financial matters for Corentyne River Bridge project

The Governments of Guyana and Suriname have both agreed to continue collaboration to address outstanding legal, technical and financial matters in relation to theCorentyneRiverBridgeProject.

President Irfaan Ali and Suriname’s PresidentDr JenniferGeerlings-Simonsmet onSaturdayinNieuwNickerie,Surinameto review the state of bilateral relations and to advance discussions on areas of mutual interest.

During their discussions, the muchanticipated Corentyne River Bridge project which will link the two South American nations was raised. “With regards to the bridge between Suriname and Guyana, over the Corantijn (Corentyne) River the two Leaders recognized the timely advancement

of the transformative potential for trade, tourism, connectivity, and people-to-people exchanges,”ajointstatementfollowingtheir meetingsaid.

According to the statement, the two countries agreed to “continue close coordination to address outstanding legal, technicalandfinancialmatters.”Theproject is integral to the interconnectivity of the AmazonRegion.

The former Chandrikapersad Santokhiled administration had agreed to execute the project with Guyana. On May 20, 2025 Santokhiannouncedattheopeningceremony of a Surinamese joint venture, GUYSURE Aggregate & Sands Inc. sales office, a subsidiaryofGrassalco,inGuyanathatthe Continued on page 40

TheconstitutionalityofBharratJagdeo’sresponsibilities

At a press conference some years ago, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo was asked about his role in the natural resources sector

His response was as remarkable as it was troubling. He made it clear that he bore no ministerial responsibility for natural resources Instead, he explained, he was simply taskedwith“overseeing”the sector, along with finance andtheenvironment.

Totheuntrainedear,this may have sounded like a mere technicality To constitutional lawyers,

however, it raises a fundamentalquestion:Cana Vice President in Guyana lawfully function without ministerialresponsibility?

The answer lies in the ConstitutionofGuyana.And the short response is, in my estimation,no.

The Constitution of

Guyana states, in unambiguous terms, that Vice Presidents “shall” be Ministers This is not a matterofoptionaldiscretion orpoliticalconvenience.The framers of the Constitution

employed mandatory language. The word “shall” has been settled, through centuries of constitutional law and judicial precedent, as a word that imposes an obligation.Itisnotdirectory, it is compulsory Where a statute or constitution states that an office “shall” be accompanied by certain powers or duties, the courts haveconsistentlytreatedthat requirementasbinding.

Courts across the

Commonwealth have repeatedlyruledthat “shall” is not a permissive term. To interpret “shall” as merely permissive would be to hollowouttheprovisionand renderitmeaningless.

Thus, when the Constitution declares that Vice Presidents shall be Ministers,itintendsthatVice Presidents must hold ministerial portfolios, with all the legal and political responsibility that such portfolios entail. Anything less would render the provisionredundant.

The logic behind this constitutionalrequirementis clear VicePresidentsarenot ornamentalfigures.Theyare not ceremonial placeholders in the Cabinet. They are intended to carry ministerial responsibility, to be accountable for specific portfolios,andtoanswerfor the decisions and policies within their sectors Ministerial responsibility ensures that the exercise of executiveauthorityistiedto legal responsibility, both to Parliamentandtothepeople.

To imagine a Vice President “overseeing” a sector without holding ministerial responsibility is to create a twilight zone of accountability. An overseer without formal ministerial designation can wield influence and make decisions but evade the scrutiny and legal liability that comes with ministerial office. That would subvert the very principles of parliamentary democracy a n d m i n i s t e r i a l

Dem Boys Seh...

responsibility that the Constitutionseekstouphold.

In effect, Jagdeo’s claim that he is merely “overseeing” rather than holding ministerial responsibility puts him outside the constitutional frame. It transforms the role of Vice President into something the Constitution never intended: a supernumerary position without accountability, hovering above the Cabinet ratherthanbeingpartofit.

B u t w h a t i s s

, astonishing—isthatoverthe past five years, no local litigator has mounted a constitutional challenge to Jagdeo’sappointmentinthis anomalous form Guyana has a tradition of robust constitutional litigation Attorneys routinely test the legality of governmental a p p o i n t m e n t s , administrative actions, and even parliamentary procedures.

That this issue has escaped challenge suggests either political caution or legaloversight.

Yet this issue is not a trivialtechnicality.Itgoesto the heart of constitutional governance. If a Vice President can function without ministerial responsibility, then the carefully drawn lines of accountability in the Constitutionareblurred.

Thismattercannotbeleft inlimbo.TheConstitutionis thesupremelawoftheland. To allow deviations on so fundamental a point is to

Big wuk fuh some; small clap fuh others

Dem boys seh is big season of appointments. Permanent Secretaries and advisers sprouting up like jumbie umbrella after rain. And technical officers? Yuh would believe is new kind of crop rotation. One after the other springing up in all ministry Dem boys want fuh congratulate dem new appointees. Is nice fuh see people gettingbigwuk.Demboyssehbestofluck, and remember, when yuh taking public money,itsupposedfuhbepublicservice,not privateenterprise.

Someahdemsameappointeesmightstill berunningdemownbusiness.So,watchout. Conflict of interest does sneak in like mosquito in mosquito net. Dem boys seh maybe some of dem should do the job pro bono. That is Latin fuh “wuk free.” But in Guyana,probonodoessoundlike“proboneinchicken.”Meanwhile,demboyswatching de long-serving public servants. Dem is the real marathon runners. Twenty, thirty years pushing pen, stamping paper, shifting file from one desk to another, only fuh see outsiderwaltzin,getbigtitle,bigoffice,and big chair with cushion. Dem career civil

invite arbitrariness into executive governance. It is unacceptable that someone with the rank and privileges of Vice President should wield oversight and influence over entire sectors without the burdens of ministerialaccountability

Moreover, the principle at stake here is broader than one individual or one appointment.Itconcernsthe structural integrity of Guyana’s constitutional order Iftheword “shall” in Article 103 can be diluted, what prevents future governments from ignoring othermandatoryprovisions?

Today it is a Vice President

without ministerial responsibility Tomorrow it

could be a constitutional office holder without qualifications or a finance minister without budgetary authority The Constitution mustnotbesubjectedtosuch casualdisregard.

Bharrat Jagdeo’s role as Vice President without ministerial responsibility is, inmyview,unconstitutional. The Constitution insists that Vice Presidents shall be Ministers.

That is a mandatory requirement designed to preserve accountability and preventtheexecutivebranch from creating positions of power unmoored from legal responsibility

servants left sitting pon the same squeaky chairsinceBurnhamtime.

SpeakingofBurnham,demboyssehthe man had one trick. If people vex, they ain’t gettingpromotion,hedoesjustcreateawuk. ChiefOfficerofSmiling.DeputyDirectorof Common Sense. Permanent Secretary for Permanent Lime. Everybody used to get somethingsonobodylefout.

Now,demboyssehisbaredisaffectionin thesystem.Imagineyuhgrindingwholelife, waiting fuh recognition, only fuh see fresh face parachute in from private sector, land straight pon big desk. Dem inside workers feeling like dem playing cricket whole day, only fuh outsider come in and bat last ball andgetman-of-the-match.

Dem boys seh the moral of the story simple. Recognition sweet, but fairness sweeter Yuh cyan sideline the loyal ones whokeeptheenginerunningwhilegivingall the spotlightto importedstars. One day, the grindingworkersmightjustdecidefuhstop grinding And when that happen, no appointmentlettergonsaveyuh.

Talkhalf.Leffhalf.

They must hold ministerial office, with all the duties, obligations, and liabilities that accompany it.

unacceptable.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the

necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)

This issue demands judicial clarification The courts must affirm what the Constitution already makes plain:VicePresidentscannot merely“oversee.”

Sophia taxi driver arrested after unlicensed gun, ammo found in car

A22-year-oldtaxidriver, on Friday, was arrested after he was found with an unlicensed firearm, along with matching rounds of ammunition at ‘D’ Field

S o p h i a , G r e a t e r Georgetown.

Theyoungmanhasbeen identified as Tyrese Blair of Sophia.

According to a police report, an Intelligence Officer, along with ranks from the Customs AntiNarcoticsUnit,conductedan intelligence-led operation in the Sophia ‘D’Field area at about 14:00hrs on Friday during which the taxi driver wasnabbed.

“The ranks observed a white Allion motorcar bearing registration number PAG 3549 parked on the western side of ‘D’ Field access road, which runs north to south. The vehicle was unoccupied at the time andallwindowswereupand thedoorslocked.Agroupof males was seen liming near the car One of the ranks

Arrested: Tyrese Blair

approached and inquired from the individuals as to whotheownerofthevehicle was,”thepoliceexplained.

ItwasreportedthatBlair toldtheranksthathewasthe owner of the vehicle. As a result, a search was conducted on him but nothingillegalwasfound.

The unlicensed gun and ammo that were found during police search of Blair’s car

Blairwasaskedifhewas the holder of a Firearm Licence, to which he replied “no”.

He was then told of the offencescommitted,arrested and taken to the Turkeyen PoliceStationalongwiththe car,firearmandammunition.

Investigations are ongoing.

Blair was then asked to open the car, where a search wasconductedandoneblack Beretta 9mm pistol (without serial number) containing one magazine and five live 9mm rounds of ammunition were found concealed under the gear shift booth located between the two front seats ofthecar

The paradox of peace

An election season visited by peace as a close andsteadycompanion. Has Guyana ever had one? Not quite, not even close. Can Guyanahaveone? Thatwas the wail, the forlorn hope. Andthenitdid. In2025,the elections were largely peaceful. Apart from some hiccups - heavy ones repeatedly experienced by a new entrant - the process from campaigning to counting was peaceful Unprecedented and not unwelcomed.

In fact, Guyanese exhaled long and slow Did itreallyhappenthatway,and what was responsible? Yes, itdidhappen,andtheorigins of that season of relative tranquility will puzzle, then

maybe persuade Just maybe.

What was the different component in the 2025 elections,whatIbelievewas a major contributor, the difference-maker? How about that heavy foreign contingent that is all over?

Though the international elections observer missions must be included in this company, it is more than those,andtothereIgo. With all these foreign companies andalltheirvestedinterests, they themselves had a stake inpeaceandstability Ah, that proper and healthy investor climate

When the ground is calm, they come. And when they are around in their numbers, goodmoneycanbewagered

that their embassies are in close attendance, very vigilant.

Some may label that the pressure of moral suasion aka jawboning where it counts - leaders. Leaders with radical ideas, passions, and a constituency that is impatient. Instead of that sophisticated stuff, I prefer the power of an invisible presence. Like God, the foreign brigade was there, andthoughsteadfastlyoutof sight and quiet, they mattered.

Which one of the competitors in the 2025 elections race (a bad word that still has some energy) was oblivious to the watchers? Afrowninsertsa chill;aconcernedphonecall

is the last development needed,butonethatmustbe taken. Who’s holding the line? Who’s going to be responsible for any fallout, theaftermath?

Some of the wealth may be in the sea, and another basket of it among the timbers. Indeed,itisso. But themoversandshakersstand likewell-placedsentinelson land, and they miss nothing. Notice how well-behaved, forthemostpart,thevarious politicalgroupswere.

Thespectaclewasnotof opposition groups deteriorating into moblike frenzies In 2025, the opposition political parties monopolized proper management of themselves andtheirassets,suchasthey were Especially their zealous, raucous, and rambunctious human assets, which were largely muzzled orneutered.

The question is simple, yet deep: self-correction or resistance to selfdestruction? Because to go out into the political badlands of Guyana and carry on like old times was nolongeronthetable. Or,to be as blunt as blunt can be: which one of Guyana’s opposition parties wanted to be on the wrong side of

Exxon? That would be bad for business.

Corporate business

Local political business.

Leadership business (ambi

visions). Why give Guyana abadnameatthistimeofall time, and end up in the bad books of ABCE and Zee. I think everyone understands, where everyone stands

Hence, there was peace in thebrightcityandinthedark valley

ThewiseinGuyana(and foreignreaders)maywonder if I am giving the people in charge a free pass. I don’t have to, as they took care of that, all by themselves

Sanctity of contract makes all things possible. In a nutshell, give the foreigners first priority, put the highest premium on foreign interests,andthere’sthefree passthatthepeopleincharge guaranteedthemselves.

The GRA unleashed

The GPF unmuzzled

Supporters unhinged and armed with the utensils of confrontation and assorted other weaponry are all considered child’s play After all, those are not too upheaving to the ambience of the environment. And, then let’s all remember that boys will be boys. Girls

A mini health check is the first step to donating blood

wanna have fun. So, why notboysalso?

It wasn’t that Guyana’s political players grew up, became disciplined, and g a i n e d a s u p e r b understanding of the right way It was that they a p p r e c i a t e d t h e consequences of taking the wrongroad. Heardanything about renegotiation or ringfencing?

Yes, there was. But by then it was light years too late, and way too little to makeadifference. Thinkof amotheratthemarketwho’s thinking of buying It doesn’t matter what a brave face she puts on, she just doesn’t have what it takes. Nocash,nocarry

Ditto all the hazy, lazy, cozy talk about doing this and that with that liquid aquatic bonanza. Irrelevant andinconsequential. Ithink it was a lovely strategy: say nothingaboutoil. Thensay somethingforthemediaand thearchives.

So, there was peace in 2025. Theproblemfrommy perspective was that the priceofpeacewassosteep.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)

FewchangestoPres.Ali’sCabinet

...Manickchand moves to Local Govt., Parag heads to Education, Oneidge takes charge of Home Affairs ...Keoma Griffith, Steven Jacobs, Sarah Browne among new faces

President Irfaan Ali on Saturdaynightappointedmembers of his cabinet and announced the names of other parliamentarians andadvisorsataceremonyheldat StateHouse,Georgetown.

Most of the ministers who served the last five years were retainedwhile,afewnewfacesand newministrieswereannounced.

Attorney General and Minister of LegalAffairsAnil Nandlall has retained his portfolio while Ministers Dr Vindyha Persaud (Minister of Human Services), Dr Frank Anthony (Minister of Health),VickramBharrat(Minister of Natural Resources), Charles Ramson (Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport), Gail Teixeira (Minister of ParliamentaryAffairs and Governance), Dr Ashni Singh (SeniorMinisterintheOfficeofthe President with responsibility for Finance), Hugh Todd (Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International

Relations), Kwame McCoy (Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister), Collin Croal (MinisterofHousing),JuanEdgill (Minister of Public Works) and Zulfikar Mustapha (Minister of Agriculture) also retained their portfolios.

Meanwhile,formerMinisterof Education,PriyaManickchandhas been assigned to the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development. She will be joined by former Minister ofAmerindian Affairs,PaulineSukhai.Sukhaihas

Parliamentary Secretary, Sarah Browne.

Minister Sonia Parag who was Minister of Public Service, before itwasabsorbedbytheOfficeofthe PresidentandservedasMinisterof Local Government and Regional Development, will now replace Manickchand as the education minister

MinisterOneidgeWalrondwill replace former Minister Robeson Benn as the Minister of Home Affairs, while Benn will serve as her advisor Former Minister of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues will take Walrond’s place as Minister of Tourism, IndustryandCommerce.

Minister Deodat Indar was named Minister of Public Utilities andAviation,anewministry Inthe last cabinet, he served as Minister within the Ministry of Public Works.

Amongst the new faces, Attorney-at-Law, Keoma Griffith will replace Minister Joseph HamiltonastheMinisterofLabour and Manpower Planning, while Hamiltonwillserveashisadvisor Businessman and former national cricketer, Steven Jacobs hasbeenappointedMinisterwithin theMinistryofCulture,Youthand Sports with Minister Charles

RamsonJr retaininghispostasthe senior minister Another new face, ZulfikarAlly, was namedMinister of Public Service, Government EfficiencyandImplementation.

Additionalnewcomersinclude Vickash Ramkissoon, who was named Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Mandanlall Ramraj Minister within the Ministry of Public Works and Vanessa Benn named Minister within the Ministry of Housing.

Meanwhile, in his address, PresidentIrfaanAlisaid,“Thenew cabinet today has been put on notice that… This government is notaboutpowerandIwanttomake thatveryclear.”

Hesaidthatministerswhowish to exercise power will find themselves out of a job very quickly, as the government stands on responsibility, service, and humility “…noegos,noegos.The

journey ahead is going to be accelerated. You’ll see that we at the Office of the President, we intend to lead by example,” said President Ali who himself took the oathofofficelastSunday

The head-of-state reminded that the victory of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) was as a result of hard work,

commitmentofmen,notonlyinthe cabinet.

Praising the work of his ministers, President Ali said that theylabouredandtrustedthevision of the PPP/C, “…that mission and the plans we advance are what we want to achieve as a people together in this country, and tonight,Iaskyoutoapplaudthem.I wantallofthemtoknowthatwhilst tonight is a representation of one aspectofgovernment,theirworkis thehardpiece,thefoundationand Continued on page 42

The Waterfalls Waterfalls

Young entrepreneur plays one of the most important parts in society which is showing that it’s possible as long as you work hard for it, age shouldn’t be an obstacle.

Theresa Herman

MeetMs.TheresaHerman, ContestantofMissGuyanaTeen Scholar,2025.The18-year-old beautywasbornandraisedinOrealla whereshediscoveredherlovefor natureandpassionforpreservingit. Sheiscurrentlypursuingadegreein EcotourismattheUniversityof Guyana,withthedreamofoneday creatingatourismdestinationinher village;onethatallowstheworldto experiencetheserenityofitscreeks, thecharmofitsrivers,andthe warmthofitspeople.Shesaid swimminginOrealla’swatersisnot justapastimeforher,butaway ofstayingrootedinwhosheis andwhereshecomesfrom. Guidedbyhermotto,“Preservethe beauty,sharetheculture,inspirethe world,”Hermanaspirestoencourage otherstovaluethetreasuresof Guyanaandworktogethertoprotect themforgenerationstocome.

Haiticannotwait-allOASmemberstatesdeclare:

“The

time for decisive action is now”

On 10 September, all 32 active member states of the Organization of American States (OAS) signed a joint statement on Haiti.As often happens in diplomacy, not every membe

participated in the discussionsandnegotiations that produced the text Antigua and Barbuda did. I led our delegation We argued line by line because, in diplomacy, words decide budgets, mandates, and lives they must be carefullyweighed.

My delegation had four concerns.

First, the UN Security Council resolution proposed by the United States and Panama -to which the joint statementrefers-hasnotyet been adopted. Discussions have been constant in New York, but the text is still not agreed. In plain terms, the United States and Panama are asking the UN Security Counciltoreplacethesmall, under-resourced Kenya-led missioninHaitiwithalarger, UN-backed force - about 5,550 personnel- with the legalauthoritytodetaingang members, secure critical infrastructure (airports, ports, hospitals, schools), and run intelligence-led operations against armed groups for 12 months. The plan also stands up a UN Support Office to handle logistics and reimburse equipment costs, while voluntary contributions to a UN Trust Fund cover

personnel reimbursements and other mission needs, keeping costs transparent

Kenyan-led mission has

sufficient results relative to thecostsbornebyfunders.It cannot continue in this fashion.

Second, replacing the Multinational Security Support mission with any “Gang Suppression Force” risks narrowing the lens to the use of force - what my Deputy Head of Mission, Joy-Dee Davis-Lake, aptly called “urban warfare”while missing the wider context of Haiti’s economic and social conditions that helpedcreatethegangs.AsI saidpubliclyinresponsetoa Miami Herald question, any new UN action cannot be only about suppression Gangsrecruitboyswhohave nothing to eat and no opportunities to grow into self-sufficient adults; violence grows where institutions are hollow, wages are non-existent, and thereisnoreasontotrustthe systeminwhichpeoplelive. Yes,securityisessential,but it must not be regarded as sufficient.

Third,Haitianownership mustnotbeaslogan;itisthe basis of legitimacy for any transformation in the country Antigua and Barbuda wanted the Haitian authorities to take clear ownership of the joint

statement, and to accept accountability for actions in Haiti, including how funds are used Without that, international support will remainhesitantandunsure.

Fourth, we wanted to ensure that nothing in the joint statement opened a door for the OAS, as an institution, to participate in the use of force. The OAS Charter provides no such authority More importantly, the OAS’ value - its credibilityasapeace-builder andhonestbroker-wouldbe undermined if it drifts into kinetic (use-of-force) operations. The OAS role is institution-building, rights, a n d p o l i t i c a l accompaniment. It is in the interest of each member

s t a t e , a n d o f t h e organisation’s relevance, thatitkeepstoitsrole.

Those were our guardrails. Within them, we supportedthejointstatement forthefollowingreasons.

The statement reaffirms that Haiti must lead and places the United Nations at the centre of security operations, including a supportoffice(UNSOH)and the transition to a stronger force aimed at restoring a safe,stableenvironmentand dismantling gangs. That is the right hierarchy: the UN leads on protection; Haiti leads on sovereignty and responsibility

TheOASisgivenaclear role - strengthening institutional and operational

capacities through a civil, humanitarian, and humanrights approach. That keeps the organisation where it is most effective: helping the HaitianNationalPolicewith non-force enablement and helping the state rebuild the basicsofgovernance.

The text encourages voluntary contributions to the UN Trust Fund for the new force and welcomes complementary support through OAS mechanisms such as SECURE-Haiti for police enablement, consistent with the UN framework That pairing keeps money flows honest, channels visible, and burdens shared according to capability.

B y c a l l i n g f o r coordinationamongtheUN, OAS,CARICOM,andHaiti, thestatementtriestostopthe waste the world has seen whenworkoverlapswithno coordination.

The statement explicitly joins security operations withattentiontorootcauses: weak institutions, corruption, poverty, stark inequalities,andthecollapse of education and basic services That is the difference between beating off gangs for a few months and building lasting peace forthefuture.

Thankfully, even as final negotiations were concluding on the joint statement,theUNundertook to move $9 million in emergencyfundstoHaiti,in part to maintain the La Paix Hospital which is the only public hospital still functioning in Port-auPrince.

As Tom Fletcher, the UN’s under-secretarygeneral for humanitarian affairs, put it: the security trackonlyworksalongsidea humanitariantrackthathelps people go home, rebuild livelihoods, and recover dignity.Thatis precisely the balance we fought to preserveintheOAStext.

So where does this leave us?

And it leaves the UN Security Council, especially thefivepermanentmembers, with a simple message: the states closest to Haiti - its neighbours in the OAShave spoken with unusual unity after serious and attentive discussions by several lead countries. We supportaHaitian-ledpath,a UnitedNation-ledprotection m a n d a t e , a n d a comprehensive strategy that treatsboththesymptomsand the cause of the Haitian crisis.Asweconcludeinthe statement: “Haiti cannot wait. The time for decisive, coordinatedactionisnow.”

(The author is the Ambassador of Antigua and Barbuda to the United States and the OAS, and Dean of the OAS Ambassadors accredited to the OAS. Responses and previous commentaries: www.sirronald sanders.com)

ItleavestheUNwiththe responsibility to deliver protection from gang p r e d a t i o n a n d lawlessness lawfully, accountably, and with the consent of Haiti’s authorities It leaves the OAS to backstop that effort where its Charter and competence are strongest: institution-building, rights compliance, political accompaniment, and nonforce support to the Haitian National Police. It leaves donors with a clear request: fund the Trust Fund so the new force can function, and fund humanitarian operationssosocietycanlive anormallife.

WEEK-IN-REVIEW

SUNDAY

5moreyearsforpres.Ali …PPP/Cgets36seats, WIN16,APNU12 &FGM1

ThePeople’sProgressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) was on Saturday night officially declared winner of the 2025 General and Regional Elections by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

The commission convened on Saturday at 23:00hoursanddeclaredthe PPP/C the winner with Dr IrfaanAlire-electedtoserve asecondterm.

PPP/C secured 36 seats in the National Assembly, while We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) led by Azruddin Mohamed gained 16 seats, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) ledbyAubreyNortongained 12 seats, and Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) ledbyAmanzaWalton-Desir got1seat.

Overall, the incumbent was able to secure 242,000 votes The new main opposition party, WIN got over 109,000 votes, while APNU received 77,988 votes and FGM got about 4,300votes.

Notably, Kaieteur News had reported that 315,140 eligible electors of the 757,690 on the Official List of Electors (OLE) did not participate in this year’s election.

Meanwhile, GECOM in a statement said that the declaration was done in keeping with Article 177(2) of the Constitution. It was statedthatthiswasdoneafter the Commission reviewed thereportpresentedbyChief Election Officer, Vishnu Persaud.

The declaration was madefivedaysaftercitizens cast their ballots due to a recount process that was initiated honoring a request byAPNU.

The process started after all of the Statements of Poll (SOPs) were published for thetendistrictsbyGECOM, showing the PPP set to secure a second term in office.

Forthefirsttime,thePPP won Region Four defeating APNU,whilemaintainingits hold on Regions One, Two, Three, Six, and Nine. The party also secured the most votes in Regions Five and Eight Notably, the results

show that newcomer WIN has beatenAPNU in Region Ten – a traditional stronghold.

The recount, which began on Thursday and endedonFridaycovered391 ballot boxes from Region Four and 77 boxes from RegionFive.

However, when the recountofballotsforRegion 4,Sub-District4(EastCoast Demerara) and Region 5 (Demerara-Mahaica) officially concluded on Friday evening – APNU came out with a few less votes than was initially declaredforthetwodistricts.

Commissioners

Speaking with reporters following the declaration

o u t s i d e G E C O M ’s headquarters, PPP/C appointed Commissioner Sase Gunraj outlined the process which led to the declaration.

“The commission has considered a report from the CEO which formed the basis which was the basis of which was the declarations from the 10 administrative regions. Those declarations were concatenated into the CEO’sreport,”hesaid.

Gunraj also disclosed that the oppositionnominated commissioners, Vincent Alexander, Desmond Trotman and Charles Corbin, though present at the meeting,chose toabstainfromvotingonthe results.

He said too that all six commissioners and the GECOM Chair, Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh

were present and no objections were raised nor any reason given for the absentia.

For his part, oppositionnominated commissioner Vincent Alexander said GECOM’s Chair, “Seemed not to have known that that declaration was required She probably thought, sharingthespreadsheetwith uswouldsuffice.”

When asked why he abstained from voting, Alexander explained, “Why Iabstained?BecauseIamof thefirmviewthatoursystem is not one that’s geared to produce a free, fair and transparent election, and therefore, without any referenceordeferenceinthe election itself, I refuse to participatewiththis…”

Alexander argued that there are flaws in the electoral process including problems with the voters’ list, the exclusion of incarceratedpersons,andthe failure to address domicility for Commonwealth citizens. These he said undermined the basis for free and fair elections.

Twowomendoused withacid,hospitalized

Two female cashiers working at the Balwant Singh Hospital are

hospitalized after they were doused with a corrosive substance, which appears to beacid,onWednesday

The two women have been identified as 26-yearold Nirmala Sukraj and 25year-old Jilicia Leitch. Reports are that the women were on their way to purchase lunch along East Street when a man approached and threw the liquidonthem.

Leitch’s close friend (name withheld) told Kaieteur News that she did not tell him exactly where she was headed at the time but he knows it was on East Street,astheyhadjustexited theirplaceofwork.

Leitch suffered more burnsthanherco-workerand the two women reportedly fledindifferentdirectionsto seek help. Leitch entered a Guinness Bar in the vicinity of her work place but was turnedawaywithherinjuries and the doors shut in her face.

“[Shetoldme]thepeople put her out and asked her to leave while she was hollering for pain, and she end up running to the supermarket, and she fell onto the ground, and the Chinese people come out with a bottle of water and soak her and take her to the hospital,”hesaid.

Sukrajmanagedtoreturn to Balwant Singh Hospital whereshewastreated.

Leitch, who reportedly suffered burns to her face stomach and left hand, is unable to identify their attackerasshedidnotseehis face. The young woman is still trying to wrap her head around who would want to harmherorhercolleague.

K a i e t e u r N e w s understands that Leitch is in a stable condition in the Burns Care Unit of the GeorgetownPublicHospital Corporation(GPHC). Sheis

attended by hundreds of supporters of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C). Notably unlike his first term, President Ali did not swear in his prime minister Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips and Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo yesterday

conscious and talking but onlyallowedtwovisitorsper dayduetoherinjuries.

Meanwhile, police said thatSukraj,theothervictim, sustainedminorburnstoher body has since been dischargedfromGPHC.

Police are investigating the case and detectives have managed to speak with Leitch while efforts are being made to contact Sukraj.

Leitch reportedly told investigators that they were attacked around 15:39 hrs. by someone in a white car w h i l e s h e w a s accompanying Sukraj to purchaselunch.

She recounted that they were about six feet away from their workplace when the car drove behind them and someone inside the said carpeltedaglassbottlewith aliquidsubstanceatthem.

Leitch recalled that her body was burning as the car droveaway

MONDAY

PRES.ALISWORN-IN FOR2ndTERM

-sayswillbePresident forallGuyanese –vowscrackdown onsocialmedia mischiefmakers –totacklecorruption inbothpublic, privatesectors –promisesto eradicatepoverty –promisesmore accesstoinformation

IrfaanAliwasonSunday morning sworn in for a secondtermpromisingtobe apresidentforallGuyanese, even as he vowed to eradicate poverty, tackle corruptionandgoaftersocial media mischief makers who spreadmisinformation. Held at the State House in Georgetown, the swearing-in ceremony was

He indicated that in the coming days he will roll out his cabinet, which could include those who served in thelastcabinetornewfaces. The president said these persons will be chosen for their competence, character, and fidelity to the people of Guyana “I will also announce a wide range of other key appointments across the public sector to ensurethattheentiresystem isledbypeoplecommittedto delivering effective service to the Guyanese people,” he said.

Inhisaddressaftertaking theoathofoffice,Aliassured Guyanese that he will serve allGuyaneseforthe2025to 2030period.Aliunderscored that the achievements of the PPP’s agenda over the next five years will require bold decision-making, critical thinking, relentless effort, and a high degree of adaptability and agility to survive and prosper in an increasingly complex global environment.

Nationalcrusade againstpoverty

President Ali also underscored that Guyana, a nationblessedwithoil,gold, bauxite,andotherresources, should not be poor in living standards. For his second term, Ali said that his administration will launch a national crusade against poverty “Notjustthevisible povertyinourstreets,butthe structural roots and hidden burdens that keep families from rising.We will fight it, reduce it, and ultimately eradicate it,” President Ali said. According to Ali, the key to delivering on these commitments lies in building a highly efficient, service-oriented public service He spoke about refashioningapublicservice that delivers more online services and one that places the citizen at the centre of every action He also reiterated his promise to dismantle bottlenecks that frustrate citizens and modernisethesystems.

Anti-corruption

Notably,healsooutlined how corruption undermines theefficiency,fairness,and Continued on page 17

Frompage16 credibility of public service.

“That is why we will

strengthen our anti-

corruption efforts by establishing a dedicated Anti-CorruptionUnit,tasked with excising this cancer from our institutions and holding public officials to the highest standards of integrity Every official will be required to account for their personal assets, and anyone who cannot do so willfacethefullforceofthe law Wewillpursueboththe corruptedandthecorrupters, leaving no room for impunity,”heannounced.

Further, President Ali also noted that his administrationdoesnothave a system of lobbying, cautioning that any person presenting themselves as lobbyists or peddling access to anyone in government is misrepresenting themselves and misleading others. He disclosed that a special mechanism will be set up to dealwithsuchindividuals.

“At the same time, we recognise and respect the essential watchdog role of the media, and we will ensure greater sharing of information by instituting

mechanisms in every ministryanddepartmentthat provide the facts in a timely way,”Alifurthernoted.

President Ali noted that his administration will hold

those tasked with the d i s s e m i n a t i o n o f information accountable for their actions. “They must be held accountable,” he said. Further, he noted that Guyana can become a rising frontier He touted Guyana as a land of prosperity, justice,dignity,andhopefor every single citizen “The measureofthismandatewill be simple, how far the least served can rise, and how widelyopportunityisshared. Let no child doubt it in One Guyana, your name, your village, your faith, your family’s history will never limit your horizon The future is yours to claim Seizeitandsoar,”Alisaid. Investinpeople

He assured that his government will invest in people and expand scholarships, skills, and partnership with the University of Guyana (UG) andregionalinstitutions.Ali disclosedthatwithinthenext sixweeks,hisadministration will establish 200 medical and engineering seats in Regions Two, Three, Six, and Nine.This, he said, will

make it possible for persons to equip themselves with skills in these areas without having to leave their homes orregions.

“These skills are in high demand, and we’re going to ensure that Regions 9, 2, 3, and6,insixweeks,willbein a position to deliver education in every field of theCollegeofMedicineand the University of Guyana, Faculty of Engineering,” he stated.

Deepeneconomicties

Further, on regional and international partnerships, Alisaidhisgovernmentwill continuetodeepeneconomic ties with neighbouring countries through expanded trade, investment, and knowledge exchange He also underscored Guyana’s commitment to advancing the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Single Market and Economy, with full free movement, mutual recognition of skills and qualifications.

“We will champion regionalenergysecurityand c o m p e t i t i v e n e s s , leveraging Guyana’s resources and know-how, partnering with our neighbours to lower cost, expand manufacturing and build resilient, cleaner energy systems that power jobs and industry across the Caribbean,”headded Ali said too that food security efforts will also be accelerated to cut the region’s import bill and ensure Caribbean tables are supplied by Caribbean farms. He outlined plans to

modernise agriculture and agro-processing, while opening new shipping and air links Additionally, PresidentAlireaffirmedthat his government will continuetodefendGuyana’s sovereignty with quiet confidence in the law “We seek peace with all our neighbours,” Ali said He addedthathisadministration is committed to engaging international partners in ways that safeguard Guyana’s sovereignty and advance the country’s interests “We will strengthen cooperation where it brings tangible benefitstoourpeople,while ensuring that our resources and opportunities are

prosperityforthisandfuture generations,”hestated.

Canadianfirm announcesacquisition oftwolarge-scalegold prospectinglicences daysbeforeelections

Canadiangoldminer,G2 Goldfields has announced that the Ministry of Natural Resources and Guyana Geology and Mines Commission approved the issuance of two large-scale ProspectingLicences(PL). G2 made the disclosure on August 28 In a statement, the company noted that the PL’s encompass G2’s high-grade Oko-Ghanie Gold Deposit whichislocatedinGuyana. The PL encompass the Oko and Ghanie Deposits, 1.5 million ounces indicated at3.40g/tAuand1.6million

effective project design, regulatorycomplianceandto supportthepreparationofan Environmental Social ImpactAssessment(ESIA).

G2’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dan Noone, said, “Securing the ProspectingLicencesforour flagship Oko-Ghanie Deposit is a significant m i l e s t o n e i n t h e advancement of the Project and underscores our strong working relationship with theGovernmentofGuyana.”

He added that the approval provides a clear

o n a n d development of Guyana’s “world-class gold system.”

“With this licence in hand, we are well positioned to unlock the full potential of this highly prospective gold district and rapidly drive the advancement of this Project,”Nooneadded.

ounces inferred at 2.48 g/t Au,withacombinedareaof approximately 17,451 acres and replace 11 separate medium-scale mining permits previously held in the name of Guyanese entrepreneurs through optionagreements.

Notably, the PL have a three-year term with two renewal rights for one year each and provides for the right of occupation and exclusive right to explore for gold and precious minerals G2notedthatover the last two years, c o m p r e h e n s i v e environmental baseline s t u d i e s h a v e b e e n conducted via third party consultants

The company noted that these studies were designed to recommend actions for

For his part, Patrick Sheridan, Executive

Chairman highlighted that Guyana was recently recognized as a top ten jurisdiction globally for mininginvestment.

“This milestone is a testamenttoboththeprolific prospectively of the Guiana Shield and the Government of Guyana’s strong support for the rapidly advancing gold mining industry, and foreign investment developmentingeneral.The Oko Gold Project is the second multi-million-ounce goldminethatourgrouphas discoveredanddevelopedin Guyana in the last twenty years,andweremainexcited tocontinuetobeasupportive partner in the development of the industry,” Sheridan stated.

TUESDAY

‘PPP/Cvictoryin Exxon’sinterest’ …lopsidedoildealsafe –Int’lanalyst

Oil and global market watchers are betting on the PPP/C to keep in place the unfair terms in the lopsided ExxonMobil contract, saying that its success at the general elections would guarantee continuity of developmentoftheoilsector without any changes to policy

And while they believed a government led by either thePNCRortheAFCwould also promote growth of the oilandgasandinfrastructure sectors, it said those parties would be more likely to review the terms of existing oil contracts, tighten environmental requirements and consider increasing oil royalties.

S&P Global, a leading U.S. corporation providing transparent and independent data and analytics to the g

s provided this analysis in the leaduptoGuyana’srecently heldelections,whichsawthe President Irfaan Ali-led PPP/C ticket emerging victorious snapping up 36 seats to control the 65-seat legislature here. The PPP/C Government has resisted callsforchangestothe2016 oil contract that governs operations of the Stabroek B

international and local experts.

Initsmanifestothe Continued on page 18

Frompage17 PPP/C pledged to accelerate oil and gas exploration by concluding Production SharingAgreements (PSAs) withsuccessfulbiddersfrom the 2022 auction under new and enhanced terms This will bring new blocks into accelerated exploration and, ultimately, production. The party also plans to complete 3D seismic surveys across unlicensed blocks and operationalize a Petroleum Data Repository to enhance the basin’s marketability To further ramp up exploration

and production, more international auctions of additional blocks will be conducted. It must be noted that the new terms are not applicable to the lucrative Stabroek Block, where it is believed most of Guyana’s oil is. The Stabroek Block, which spans 6.6 million acres and holds about 11.6

billion barrels of oil equivalent, is operated by

ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL), which holds a 45% stake Its

partners are Chevron (formerly Hess) with 30% andCNOOCwith25%.

In its analysis that was published on September 1thesamedayGuyanesewent to the polls, S&P Global noted that there were no publicly available formal election polls, “but our incountrysources,localmedia and informal polls indicate thatAli(PresidentIrfaanAli) maintainspublicsupportdue to infrastructure investment and social spending funded by oil revenues and backing from Guyana’s main ethnic groups,” the corporation said.Itnotedtoothenthatthe main opposition parties —

the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) led by Aubrey Norton and the Alliance for Change (AFC) led by Nigel Hughes ”remain divided andhavebeenunabletoform a coalition to challenge the government due to leadership differences.” “In theeventofaPPP-Cvictory, broad policy continuity would be likely, including continued development of the oil sector An opposition government (led by either thePNCRortheAFC)would also promote growth of the oilandgasandinfrastructure sectors but would be more likely to review the terms of existingoilcontracts,tighten environmental requirements and consider increasing oil royalties,” S&P Global concludedintheiranalysis.

Campaignpromises

During the elections campaign all of the parties promised changes to the oil contract in their manifestos except the PPP/C. The We InvestinNationhood(WIN)

led by Busiessman, Azruddin Mohamed had pledged to seek fairer terms from the 2016 Production SharingAgreement(PSA)if he had won the polls. At a news conference when pressed on WIN’s plans to review the oil and gas framework Mohamed, said, “we will engage with ExxonMobil when we take office, and we will try to ensure that we can ringfence some of the projects, we’ll discuss this with them ” A ring-fencing provisionwouldrequirethat only costs related to a specific development are recovered from that project once oil production begins.

This would prevent ExxonMobil from charging unrelated expenses to the cost bank and help ensure a larger share of revenue is available for Guyana Currently, the deal lacks such a provision and the IrfaanAliledadministration

has approved new oil projects for Exxon without inserting a ring-fencing provision Further, the currentagreementgoverning the Stabroek Block offers favourable terms to the oil companies. Under the PSA, the consortium can recover upto75%ofoilproducedto cover investment costs. The remaining 25% is split equallybetweenGuyanaand

the consortium, with each receiving 12.5%. From that, the consortium pays a 2% royalty to Guyana Of Guyana’s total 14.5% take, the government is also responsibleforpayingtheoil companies’ taxes. The deal also stipulates that the amount equivalent to the taxes owed by the oil companies must be paid by the minister responsible for p e t r o l e u m t o t h e Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority(GRA).

For their part, the AFC had vowed sweeping changes to the contract, promising to establish a National Petroleum Commission and pursue renegotiation and ringfencing provisions. It must be noted that it was AFC founder, Raphael Trotman who was the Minister of Natural Resources at the time when the coalition signed the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) withExxonMobil.The2016 PSA stipulates that the Minister responsible for petroleum must pay the equivalentofthecompanies’ income tax to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) on their behalf. Under the agreement,upto75percent of oil production is used to recover costs, the remaining 25 per cent is considered profit and is split equally between Guyana and the consortium,givingeach12.5 per cent However, the consortiumpaysa2percent royalty from its share to Guyana From Guyana’s

14.5 per cent total take, the governmentmustpaytheoil companies’taxes.

The AFC said too that environmental protection will be prioritised, along with the building of the country’s local capacity and long-termnationalplanning, to ensure there is equity and every citizen benefits “Within30daysofassuming office, we will initiate renegotiationoftheStabroek Block Production Sharing Agreement(PSA),including transitioningtoanewmodel thatensuresGuyanareceives its fair and proportional share of oil revenues Introduce ring-fencing provisions to ensure cost recovery is limited to each project, guaranteeing faster revenue flows to Guyana,” thepolicysays.

APNU had pledged to engage ExxonMobil on the Stabroek Block Production SharingAgreement(PSA)to secure greater benefits for the country. APNU also stated that it aims to amend the Natural Resource Fund Act to guarantee savings for future generations and “whenoilpricesarelow,”the party said. Additionally, the party said that it is committed to publishing all government contracts related to the oil and gas sector and other major projects, and to establishing a professional and independent Petroleum Commission.

Phillips,Jagdeosworn-in

Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark

Phillips and Bharrat Jagdeo were officially sworn in as Prime Minister and Vice President respectively on Monday at office of the Presidentceremony

Both men previously served in the same roles during President Ali’s first term in office, from 2020 to 2025 Following the September 1 General and Regional Elections, the G u y a n a E l e c t i o n s Commission (GECOM) declaredonSeptember7that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) had won the elections. President Ali was sworn in on Sunday at the State House in Georgetown However, unlike his first term, the swearing-in of the Prime Minister and Vice President did not take place on the same day. Instead, both Phillips and Jagdeo were formally sworn in on Monday

Inhisremarks,President Aliexpressedhisconfidence in both men describing their appointments as the beginning of a series of key decisions aimed at continuing national development “I am delighted to have just administered the oath of office to the Prime Minister and Vice President These appointments represent the first of many in the public service and reflect our commitment to placing the reins of our nation’s development in the most capable hands, hands that have been tried, tested, and proven in the eyes of public service,”hestated.

President Ali praised Prime Minister Phillips for his leadership during the previous term, highlighting his strength and effective management “In those years,heservedasapillarof strength and confidence. He handled an expansive portfolio not just with efficiency but with a masterful command that instilled confidence across the government and throughout the nation,” Ali said.

Reaffirming his trust in Phillips,thePresidentadded, “I am supremely confident that, as Prime Minister, he will not only continue his exemplary service but will s u r p a s s h i s o w n distinguishedrecord.”

TurningtoVicePresident

Jagdeo, President Ali commended his lifelong dedication to Guyana’s development. “He has devoted a lifetime to the socio-economicandpolitical well-being of our nation. In my first term I came to rely on his expert and wise counselasmyvicepresident. His grasp for complex issues,hisforesightinpolicy making and profound understanding of both local dynamics and global economics are nothing short of extraordinary,” President Ali stated.Ali concluded by emphasising the strength of the team formed by the reappointments “Together, these two exemplary gentlemen represent a powerful fusion of strength. They represent a unity of purpose and a diversity of skills that will support my government and the rest of mycabinet,”hesaid.

WEDNESDAY

Venezueladeniesany collusionwithMohameds …MohamedsaysPPP/C fearmongeringandlies arefinallyunraveling

Venezuelan Ambassador to Guyana, Carlos Amador Pérez Silva, has denied any collusion between the Venezuelan government and businessman and leader of We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) Azruddin Mohamed or his father, Nazar ‘Shell’ Mohamed.

AmbassadorPérezSilva, on the side-lines of the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Bridgadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips and VicePresidentBharrat Continued on page 28

Towards a better life with your psychologist

PARENTIFICATION

In Guyana and the

Caribbean and even developing countries family life and by extension children suffer because of individualism and poor familyplanning.

The 20 and 21st century brings a dysfunctional family dynamics that hurt childrenforalifetime.

On one hand, we want children and the other hand, we abandon them in pursuit for our goals and dreams. It becomessodistortedthatwe ratherhavechildrenwithour relationsorrelationshipwith theotherparent.

Forgetting and ignoring theadverseconsequencesof the child life as we pursuit this selfish and abnormal agenda.

What we now accept as norm is traumatizing our children,robbingthemselves of a chance to grown and developintoqualityadultsto live a health lifestyle. This path some parents and society choose are single parenting homes, making children to take care of us when get old and or having ourkisssupportingusdueto the mistakes we made and now struggling with, it’s calledParentification.

Parentification is an insidious form of childhood trauma because it isn’t always obvious to others especiallywhenitsculturein communities and society seems it is logical if a situation exists where the childhastotakecareoftheir parentorhelpprovideinthe home. Parentification is a role reversal where a child assumes developmentally inappropriate adult responsibilities for the physical, emotional, or financial well-being of their family, rather than being cared for Children in these

situations, known as parentifiedchildren,become responsible for household chores, caring for siblings, providingemotionalsupport toparents,orevenactingasa financial provider What parentification really is, is a form of childhood trauma andemotionalabusewherea childisforcedvoluntaryand involuntary take on adult roles, such as caring for a parent or younger siblings, providing emotional support, or managing household responsibilities This developmental role reversal prevents a child from having a healthy childhood, leading to emotional challenges and a

distortedsenseofself. I n s t r u m e n t a l parentification: Involves taking on practical, adult taskslikecooking,cleaning, paying bills, or caring for youngersiblings.

E m o t i o n a l

parentification: Includes serving as a confidant to a parent, mediating family conflicts, or providing emotional support and stability to parents or siblings.

CausesandTriggers ofParentification

Parental Neglect: A child may be parentified whenaparentreliesonthem for practical or emotional support.

FamilyInstability:Issues like substance abuse or parental mental health can create a situation where a child feels responsible for the family’s stability Especially sons think they have to go and work or daughtersassumetheroleof caregiver

S i n g l e - P a r e n t Households: Single parents mayexpectolderchildrento assumeparentaldutieswhile theywork.

Parentification also occurs when a parent is unabletofulfilltheirparental role due to various stressors and circumstances, such as: Mental health disorders, substance abuse issues, physical or mental illness, poverty or financial instability and family conflictordomesticissues.

The aims and objectives ofchildhoodage1dayoldto 18 years - are focused on holistic development for a healthy and successful future, emphasizing social, emotional, cognitive, physical, and creative growth within a safe, nurturing environment. Key goals include fostering independence, building social skills, encouraging a loveoflearningthroughplay and exploration, developing self-care and motor skills, and preparing for formal education by creating a strong foundation for lifelong learning and responsiblecitizenship.

To guide their healthy progression toward becoming well-adjusted, independent, and capable individuals By achieving keymilestonesineachstage, children build the foundational skills and abilities necessary for lifelong learning, positive relationships, and overall

well-being.

Toddler (18months–3years):

Toddlersbeginexploring their environment and asserting independence in tasks like dressing themselves or choosing foods Form secure attachments with caregivers achildbuildsafoundationof trust and security. Independence or Autonomy is accomplished thought exploration

e environment provided by parents. The failure of parentstoprovidethisresults in children developing with uncertainty and trust issues creating years even a life time of shame and broken relationship.

Achild age-appropriateneed

PreeSchool(3–5Years)

This is the birth of selfesteem At this stage, children devise new games, imagine different roles, and learn to plan and execute activities Encouragement fosters initiative a willingness to try new things.Theseareparticularly lively, rapid-developing yearsinachild’slifea“time of vigor of action and of behaviours that the parents mayseeasaggressive.”

During this period, the primary feature involves the child regularly interacting withotherchildrenatschool. Central to this stage is play, as it allows children to explore their interpersonal skills through initiating activities. The child begins to assert control and power over their environment by planning activities, accomplishing tasks, and facingchallenges.

Parentification, criticism ordiscouragementofachild produce guilt, making children feel they are a nuisance or that their ideas areunacceptable.

Pre-Teen (5–12 years): Thechildiscopingwithnew learningandsocialdemands. Children are at the stage where they will be learning toreadandwrite,todosums, andtodothingsontheirown. Teachers begin to take an important role in the child’s life as they teach specific skills At this stage, the child’s peer group will gain greater significance and becomeamajorsourceofthe child’s self-esteem. Support from teachers and parents helps them develop industry confidence in skillsandproductivity Without such support, or

Should children in childhood take care of their parents and provide financial support?

when faced with persistent failures, taking on parental responsibility’schildrenrisk feeling inferior and unmotivated. Lashing out at school, poor academic performance but worst off goes on the next stage of their lives physically but remain in this stage psychological What parentification does in this stage of a child’s life producing a lasting sense of inferiority this undermine confidence in academic or socialsettings.

Adolescence: (12–18Years)

This is the period where children are parentified the most especially boys. This the most vulnerable person in humans’ life It’s the period where identity is formed. Sense of purpose is developed and where personalityisstabilizedfora lifetime.Failureatthisstage isnotonlyafailedadultbuta confused adult with a life time of challenges excepted c o r r e c t e d w i t h psychotherapy

During adolescence, the focus is on discovering “Who am I? “Teens explore different roles, values, and goals.When they are free to experiment and receive g u i d a n c e w i t h o u t

pressure they often develop a strong sense of identity If they feel restricted, confused, or overwhelmed, they may experienceroleconfusion.

Teenagers explore who they are as individuals, seek

to establish a sense of

By Dr. Telford Layne Jr. PsyD, MSc. Postgrad, BSc. Clinical

Parentification,looking after their parents, working for money to helpoutathome,taking care of sibling’s strip adolescents of identity and create role confusion. It is important to forming a strong identity and developing a sense of directioninlife.

Parentification

EffectsonChildren

and Developmental Psychologist - Psychoanalyst Unwrapping Gift -Clinic

depression,andsymptomsof trauma.

Behavioral problems: Disruptivebehaviour,acting out, aggressiveness for boys and passive aggressiveness for most girls’ academic difficulties, and social withdrawal.

Children are robbed of their formative years, preventing them from developing emotionally in a healthyway Takingonadult rolestooearlyhavealasting negative impact on a child’s well-being:

Emotional burden and mentalhealthissues:Feeling inadequate, guilty, or responsible for adult issues.

Parentified children are more prone to stress, mental illness, personalities disorders, than any other children.Byearlyadulthood they are experiencing burnout and bring overwhelmed. Children are forced to become “pseudoparents” or “pseudo-adults”

b e f o r e t h e y a r e developmentally ready for such roles. For example, a child may learn to help regulateaparentemotionbut nottheirsat8years.

Mental health issues: Increased stress, anxiety,

D

appropriate childhood experiences, such as play and social activities

Developmental and learning disabilities are pronounced withparentifiedchildren.

Difficulty forming healthy relationships and repeating the cycle of parentification in their own adultlives.

The experience leads to difficulties in setting boundaries and managing emotionsinadulthood.

Healing and Therapy: Therapycanhelpindividuals heal by teaching them to set healthy boundaries, manage their emotions, and build healthyrelationships.

Focus on Self: Healing involves shifting from a parental role back to a more appropriate daughter or son role, allowing for personal andemotionalgrowth.

I have watched Estonia for years. A nation of about 1 4 million people on roughly18,000squaremiles with GDP near 43 billion USD and per-capita income around31,000USD,itkeeps punching above its weight because of deliberate

choices in digital government and a culture thatbacksbusinessbuilders. Universal digital identity, securee-signatures,andonestop online services are policydecisionsthatexpand national capacity There are more than 1500 technology startupcompaniesregistered in Estonia. This country has mastered the building of an innovation eco-system and they offer lessons from whichwecanlearn.

That Guyana produces the raw materials of brain powerweneedtocultivatea thriving innovation ecosystemisnotindoubt.

The problem is (with a few exceptions), the export of our brain power to more nurturing eco-systems wheretheyareabletothrive and contribute to another nation’s development

Consider people like Dr. S u r e s h N a r i n e i n biomaterials and green chemistry. Dr. Claudette Williams-Myersinchemical engineeringandacademia.

Dr Deborah Persaud at Johns Hopkins for groundbreaking pediatric HIV work Dr Terrence

Advancing Education, Technology & Innovation in Guyana…

Blackman in mathematics andacademicleadership.Dr Valerie Jones Brown in mental health and neuroscience Dr David Ramnarine in astrophysics with NASA experience. Dr Mellissa Ifill in the social sciences and political analysis.

Dr. Michelle FlorisMooreininfectiousdiseases and faculty development

Dr Dawn I. Fox at the University of Guyana converting local waste into value-added materials for environmental solutions

Thelistgoesonandon.Our talentisabundant. The thing about innovation though, is that it cannot be centrally planned.

Innovators are not clockpunchers.They pull at ideas around the clock, researching, thinking, building, breaking, failing, persisting, and failing again until a breakthrough comes.

Nosalarygridcanpricethat kind of stubborn creativity, which is why leaders must create the right ecosystem forthem.Aneco-systemthat identifies talent early, nurtures it, and removes friction so builders can build.

The United States has long led in this regard because it is exceptional at identifying, recruiting, and nurturing talent, in all fields and wherever it can be found.

ThesuccessofGuyanese abroad is a testament to that fact. If public and private sector leaders want exponential and enduring growthathome,theyshould emulate this approach with significanturgency

Thisisnotasdifficultas itsoundshowever Geniusis everywhere in Guyana, opportunity is not The government and the private sector must focus on buildingthiseco-systemona platform of sponsorship and investment based on equal access, equal opportunity, and a commitment to excellence so that talent is rewarded wherever it is found.

We also need to face a hard truth. Guyana has a seriousproblemwithsexual, physical, and psychological violence In a small population like ours, that burden can derail any plan forinnovationexcellence. Weneedanationalfocus on mental health; trained counselors in schools and workplaces, tele-counseling for remote areas, and confidential support that helps families heal and students focus. Healthy minds learn faster, collaborate better, and innovatemore.

It is also important to note that the ecosystem we build must reach every community Young innovators in Black Bush,

Karrau, Tiger Bay, Tabatinga, Lake Mainstay, Agricola, West Canje, Parika, Awaruwaunau, and every village in Guyana should have access to the resources they need to developoptimally Theseare the young people who will solve local problems, create local companies, export ideas, and hire neighbours. Our leaders have to believe this, our learners have to believe this and we all have to invest in making this possible. That is how oil revenue becomes an innovation dividend that outlivesoilitself.

Parents, schools, government, private sector, civil society, and the diaspora all have roles Children need confidence andmustberaisedwithlove and without violence if we truly want an improved society Schools must also focus on project-based learning and tools that meet learners where they are

Classrooms should emphasize creation and

collaboration, not only recall.

Businesses must

understand that a thriving innovation eco-system will improve their profitability significantly and they must therefore open doors for internships, sponsorships andapprenticeships.

By year-end 2024, total current revenue reached GYD 437.7 billion, up 14.5 percent over 2023, a sign of private-sector momentum

The Bank of Guyana reported a 21 8 percent increase in income-tax collection in the first half of 2024, driven by the expandingeconomy

These are tailwinds an innovation strategy will amplify and these results indicatethatbusinesseshave the breathing room for the necessaryinvestments.

When more firms formalize, adopt digital tools, and scale products for export, the economy becomes broader and more resilient.Astronginnovation eco-systemishowwecreate

sustained and rapid non-oil expansion, better jobs, and higher wages in every region.

Howwillweknowifour eco-system is working? We measure what matters.Time to register a company Time to receive a permit. Number ofstartupsformedbyregion. First-time exporters by village Student mastery growthinreading,math,and digital skills

Uptake of counseling services and return-to-learning rates

Private capital leveraged Publishresultseveryquarter so the public can see progress.

If we act with focus, we will see faster, fairer services. We will see new firms in places that have beenoverlooked.

We will see reverse migration as young people choose to build at home. Most of all, we will raise a generation that knows their ideasarewelcomehere.

Genius is everywhere in this country Opportunity mustbeeverywheretoo.

Frompage17 Jagdeo, firmly rejected allegations that either Mohamed had engaged in political coordination or received preferential treatment from Venezuela, stating,“No.Whydoyousay that?No.”

Addressing claims that the Mohameds visited the Venezuelan Embassy in Georgetown to apply for visas, the Envoy made it clear that the embassy

remains open to all Guyanese and that such visitsareprivatematters.

“Theembassyisanopen place for everybody Any consular transaction or whatever information of Venezuela I can’t tell you becauseIhavetorespectthe privacyofthepeoplethatgo intotheembassy,”hesaid.

In a prompt response, AzruddinMohamedaccused the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) of

orchestrating a smear campaignagainsthim.

“This administration shamelessly weaponized misinformation, dragging ambassadorsintotheirsmear campaign against me,”

Mohamed stated “Now, H.E. Carlos Amador Pérez

S i l v a , Ve n e z u e l a n Ambassador, has exposed Hugh Todd’s and the PPP’s blatant lies that we were forced to publicly debunk.

Imagine the depths of

desperation when a g o v e r n m e n t u s e s ambassadors as political pawns in their campaign These revelations are an indication of what we have been saying all along; the PPP thrives on deception, fear and manipulation of the masses,”hesaid.

Mohamed alleged that the government’s use of foreign envoys to push false narratives indicates desperation. “The timing of these clarifications reveals a calculated strategy to smear my name and distract the nation with baseless allegations of ties to the Maduroregime,”headded.

On August 12, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations

Hugh Todd said that the Venezuelan diplomat was summoned to a meeting where he revealed that the Mohameds had visited the embassy

During an interview

c o n d u c t e d b y t h e

Department of Public Information (DPI), Todd reminded that Congressman Carlos Gimenez had raised

concerns over what he had described as Venezuela’s attempt to influence the internal affairs in Guyana, specifically through the Mohameds.

“I’m encouraged to informyouthatonlyrecently we found out that the Mohameds have been frequently visiting the VenezuelanEmbassyherein Georgetown. Now, you can recall that we’ve had Congressmen in the United States ofAmerica who have been very vocal in connectingtheMohamedsto Nicholas Maduro and his regime, particularly as it relates to smuggling and the sanctions that have been placed on Venezuela, gold smuggling that is, and money laundering,” Todd stated.

Notwithstanding, Mohamed firmly denied the claim, stating via a post on the Team Mohamed’s Facebook page: “I never visited the Venezuelan Embassy, nor have I applied for a visa to travel to Venezuela ” He also challenged both the government and the Venezuelan Embassy to provide evidence to support their claims However, no evidencewasprovided.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo later clarified during a weekly press conference that it was Nazar Mohamed, Azruddin’s father, who had visited the embassy Nonetheless, Jagdeo maintainedthatthevisitwas still “a cause for concern” given the context of U S sanctions and allegations surroundingthefamily

The situation escalated furtherwhenitwasrevealed that a U.S.-based lobbying firm, Continental Strategy LLC,hiredbytheGuyanese government, had drafted a series of anti-Mohamed

tweets in July The tweets, which were prepared for U S political figures,

described Azruddin Mohamedasa“pro-Maduro puppet” and alleged he was being used by Venezuela to influence Guyana’s internal affairs.Oneofthetweetswas

later published by Congressman Carlos Gimenez, who echoed the accusations and warned of authoritarianinfluenceinthe WesternHemisphere.

In an email dated June 23, John Barsa, a partner at Continental Strategy, sent five draft tweets to the communicationsdirectorfor Congressman Gimenez, noting that they were prepared “on behalf of the Government of Guyana ” Thetweetsraisedalarmover Azruddin Mohamed’s presidential bid, suggesting it was part of Venezuela’s strategy to extend its influenceintheregion.

Some of the tweets includedstatementssuchas:

“US-sanctioned gold mogul Azruddin Mohamed is running for president in Guyana… This isn’t just a local scandal it’s a warning.”

“Maduro’s sanctioned puppet Azruddin Mohamed running for president in GuyanaisVenezuela’slatest attempt to creep into a sovereigndemocracy.”

“ T h e W e s t e r n Hemisphere must remain a stronghold of freedom—not a breeding ground for communistdictatorships.”

The Mohamed family, particularly Azruddin and Nazar, has come under increasing scrutiny in both local and international circles In addition to political pressure, they have been sanctioned by the United States government for alleged involvement in taxevasion,goldsmuggling, and other illicit financial activities.

Wakenaam pensionerfounddead inSupenaamCreek

The body of a 69-yearold man was on Monday found floating in the SupenaamCreek,Essequibo Coast hours after he left his WakenaamIslandhome.

The dead man has been identified as Abdil Ramjan Khan.

According to police, the subordinate officer-incharge of the Aurora Police Station received a telephone call at about 07:10h

informing that a body was seen floating along the Supenaamwaterfrontarea.

“ T h e s c e n e w a s subsequently visited by a senior rank and detectives. On arrival, the body of a malewasseenfloatingatthe Supenaam waterfront in the vicinity of the Farmers’ Wharf.

The body was fished out of the water, examined by detectives and blood was observed oozing from the ear However, no marks of violence were seen on his body,” police said in a statementtothemedia.

Khan’s body was subsequently identified by his son-in-law, Navindra Thomas, a 34-year-old minibus driver also of Wakenaam.

The pensioner’s body wasthentakentotheSuddie PublicHospital,whereitwas pronounced ‘dead on arrival’.

T h o m a s t o l d investigatorsthatonSunday at about 11:00h, Khan left Wakenaamalonewithhis40 HPoutboardenginewooden boat to go to Supenaam to purchaseenginepartsbuthe neverreturned.

The minibus driver said that about 19:40h he travelled to Supenaam in search of his father-in-law and upon his arrival he said his father-in-law’s boat moored at the Supenaam waterfrontandhisclotheson the ground next to the stelling close to where the boatwasmoored.

Thomas further told investigatorsthatonthesaid dateatabout19:40hours,he travelled to Supenaam in search of his father-in-law and upon his arrival, he saw his father-in-law’s boat moored at the Supenaam waterfront and his clothes were on the ground next to the stelling area leading to wheretheboatwasmoored.

As a result, Thomas

APNU told Kaieteur News that roughly eight of the 12 APNU parliamentary seats have already been allocated, with several new faces expected to enter the National Assembly Those whoarelikelytomakeupthe APNU’s team are: Juretha Fernandes, Ganesh Mahipaul, Linden Deputy Mayor, Dominique Blair, Coretta McDonald, Nima Flue-Bess, Vinceroy Jordan and newcomers: Saiku Andrews, and attorney DexterTodd.

visited the Aurora Police Station and made a missing personreport.

In an effort to locate Khan, police observed the sceneand The scene was further scrutinised and canvassed forCCTVcamerasthatwere found on a house opposite where the boat was moored. The footage was reviewed and showed Khan falling intotheriver Investigations are ongoing.

THURSDAY

‘Nortonbowsout’ …TerrenceCampbellto leadAPNUinParliament …Saiku,DexterTodd likelynewcomers

With the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) securingonly12seatsinthe 13th Parliament, Kaieteur News has confirmed that party leader Aubrey Norton will not be returning to the National Assembly Instead, the parliamentary team will likely be led by a new face, businessman, Dr Terrence Campbell.

Following the APNU’s disappointingshowingatthe elections there have been calls for Norton to both skip returning to parliament and also resign as leader of the PNCR.

FollowingtheSeptember 1 general and regional elections, APNU recorded a disappointing number of votes,resultinginthelossof its status as the main opposition party, a position now held by Azruddin Mohamed’s We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), which won 16 seats The ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), led by President Irfaan Ali, was declared winner with 36 seats, securing Ali a second terminoffice.

Sources within the

Historically dominant in key regions such as District Four (Demerara–Mahaica) and Region 10, APNU suffered historic defeats this election cycle. For the first time, PPP/C outperformed APNUinDistrictFour,long considered the Coalition’s stronghold. Region 10, another traditional APNU stronghold, also showed significant vote losses Overall, the PPP/C secured around 242,000 votes, WIN received over 109,000, and APNU ended with 77,988 votes.

Despite the loss, Norton remains defiant and has questionedthelegitimacyof the 2025 elections. Over the weekend,hemaintainedthat the elections were “far from freeorfair,”citingabloated voters’ list, the absence of biometric voter verification, and various irregularities. In a public statement, Norton said,“Inspiteofthemanifest deficiencies in the electoral system, including a bloated voters’ list and the lack of biometrics, our party decided to participate in the elections held on September 1, 2025 These elections didnotreflectthewillofthe peopleofGuyana.”

Norton acknowledged thatAPNU,andbyextension thePNCR,themajorpartyin thecoalition,nowfindsitself in unfamiliar political territory, being neither the governing party nor the official opposition However, he expressed confidencethatthepartywill recover “APNU, of which thePNCisamajorparty,has a wealth of experience in weathering political storms. We will come through this stronger and better,” he affirmed.

Drawing historical parallels, Norton referenced the PNC’s significant defeat in 1961 and the resilience shown by then-leader L.F.S. Burnham Quoting Burnham’srallyingcall, Continued on page 29

Frompage28

“Willyounotwatchwithme for one hour?” Norton

a p p e a l e d t o A P N U supporters to stand firm in these trying times. “We are liketheoaktree.Wewillreemerge better and stronger,” he declared As the party prepares for a reshaped role in parliament under new leadership, APNU’s direction now hinges on fresh faces like Campbell and others, while it seeks to rebuilditsbase.

Meanwhile, last week Former Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan had suggested that Norton shouldstepdown.Duringan appearance on KAMS TV’s Guyana Morning Time on Friday, Jordan commended Norton’s efforts but said he must take responsibility for theoutcome.

“Aubrey, you did the hard work… It was needed. The under pushing was needed…you did the hard work,youtookalotofflock for it and signs of rebirth were seen in the rallies and soon[but]peopledidn’tturn up for the elections, again I said this was a setback,” Jordansaid.

“However, we look at it, thepartyhasbeenbroughtto its lowest ebb and you were at the helm when the party was brought to its lowest ebb,”Jordan.

He said that when the dust is settled and the swearing in is completed; Nortonshouldmakewayfor new talent to come forward andleadtheparty Hesaidin the interest of this pursuit, Nortonshoulddecideoffhis

own not to return to

parliament Jordan s u g g e s t e d A P N U ’s parliamentary leadership be entrustedtoNimaFlue-Bess orVinceroyJordan.

“Aubrey,youcanremain leader of the list, until Congress next year, where you must commit not to run for leadership. Let this be early in your introspection over the next few days, that you will not be running for leadership again, come next year.Sothatothertalentcan begin to formalize their running and so on into the Congress,”hesaid.

JordanaddedthatNorton should transition into an elder role, giving advice without overshadowing new leadership. “Don’t go back into parliament and don’t contest next year’s leadership,letthisthingflow through and be part of the moldingandsoon…”Jordan

stated.

‘MellyMel’orderedto payBalwantSingh Hospital$35Mfor defamation

Social media activist, Melissa Atwell known as “Melly Mel” has been ordered to pay the sum of $35 million to Dr Mahdu Singh and Dr Balwant Singh’s Hospital Inc for defamatory statements she publishedbackinJune2019.

The judgment was handed down on September 3byhighcourtjudge,Justice Fidela Corbin-Lincoln. The judge ruled in favour of the claimantsawardingdamages of$15milliontothehospital and$20milliontoDr Singh. Atwell was also ordered to pay the claimants’ prescribed costs of $3,150,000andtoremoveall the defamatory statements she made on her Facebook account.

According to the court document seen by this publication,Atwell posted a 33-part story on her FacebookpagebetweenJune 9thtoJune16th2019,which contained defamatory statements about Dr Singh andthehospital.

Dr Singh is a medical doctor specialising in obstetrics and gynecology andisadirector,shareholder, consultant and the chief executive officer of the medicalinstitution.

Dr Singh’s evidence is that to date neither she nor thehospitalhasbeensubject to any findings of malpractice,negligenceorto any disciplinary action by themedicalcouncil.

T h e d e f a m a t o r y publications were allegedly statements by third parties which Atwell published on her Facebook page In relation to Dr Singh, the defamatory statements

impute professional malpractice and improper andnegligentmedicaladvice andtreatmentwhichinsome cases endangered the lives and well-being of some patients and in other cases wasdesignedtoinflatecosts.

Inrelationtothehospital, the defamatory statements impute improper health care practices, medical negligence and malpractice

including deliberate misdiagnosis for financial gain, engaging incompetent professionals and improper billing practices It was noted that the post made by Atwell are a very serious form of libel, as it impacts the professional reputation oftheclaimants.

Attheendofthetrial,the court was satisfied that the statements were published b a s e d o n a l l t h e circumstances, the evidence of Dr Singh, the content of several of the defamatory

statements and the comments which followed the posts. However, it was

noted that it was difficult to measurethesizeandreachof the defamatory Facebook publications.

N o t a b l y, S e n i o r Counsels Robin Stoby and Stephen Fraser, along with attorney-at-law Shantel Scott-Lall represented the claimants, while attorneysat-law Sanjeev Datadin, Donovan Rangiah, Anessa Chow and Mohanie Anagnaoo represented Atwell.

FRIDAY

Exxonfunnelsmega contracttoDutchfirm forGuyanaproject

Dutch maritime service providerSmitLamnalcohas announced that it has been awardeda“significantmultiy e a r c o n t r a c t ” b y ExxonMobil Guyana Ltd. to provide offshore terminal support services for operations in the Stabroek Block.

The company disclosed the development on its LinkedIn page, noting that the agreement includes the provision of four newbuild terminal support vessels dedicated to Exxon’s floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) operations approximately 110 nautical miles off Guyana’s coast These vessels will support operations, maintenance, and logistics, as well as

Street, Albouystown, are now homeless after a Thursday afternoon fire reduced their homes to ashes.

FivehousesbetweenHill and Albouys Streets were destroyed, leaving about 30 personsdisplaced.Theblaze started shortly after 14:30 hrs By the time Kaieteur News arrived on the scene, three houses were already engulfed and the fire was spreading Residents complained bitterly about the Guyana Fire Service’s (GFS)lateresponse,arguing that the losses could have beenprevented.

AlishaFarnan,a32-yearold single mother of two, said she was at work when she got the devastating call.

“Iwentatwork,whenIgota phone call that my house on fire, I didn’t get to save anything, ohhh my gawddd, everythinggone.Ididn’tget to save nothing for my children,”shecried.

performstatictowageduring tanker lifting.As part of the project, Smit Lamnalco has signed shipbuilding contracts with Uzmar Shipyard in Turkey for the construction of the vessels. DesignedbyCanadiannaval architect Robert Allan Ltd., theRAmpage6000-DEclass ships will each measure 60 metersinlengthanddelivera bollardpullofover130tons ahead (120 tons astern).The vesselswillbeequippedwith DP2 class dynamic positioning systems, FIFI-1 firefighting capabilities, and additional emergency responseequipment.

The first vessel is scheduled for delivery in early 2028, with subsequent vessels arriving quarterly thereafter

“Achievingthisoutcome has been the result of many months of hard work by the projectteam,throughseveral rounds of tendering, and a thorough technical and commercial contract negotiation process We worked closely with ExxonMobil, Uzmar and Robert Allan, to define the final vessel specifications… these major projects cannot be won without input and dedication from the entire team,”thecompanysaid.

Albouystownfire wipesoutfivehomes …leaves30homeless

SeveralfamiliesofJames

Another tenant, Nekita, recalled that residents first tried using buckets of water todousetheflames.Shesaid she managed to alert a woman and her son inside one of the buildings, who escaped unhurt. “It had a set ofrubbishinfrontoftheyard and the rubbish catch and started the fire. Everything burn up Everything burn up,” she said, blaming the fire service for not arriving sooner

The fire is believed to have started in a yard where garbage was being burnt, reportedly occupied by persons residents described as “junkies.” From there, it spread to nearby homes Property owner Mohamed, wholosttwoofhisbuildings, estimated his losses in the millions, while tenant Derrick“Fred”Sharplessaid he only managed to save documentsandatelevision.

“Its hurtful, because all your things them burn up… all my lil money, I was saving fuh buy a car, all that money burn up in there, all mylilsavings,”helamented.

Divisional Officer Otis Charles of the GFS reported thatonarrival,“onebuilding wasfullyengulfedinflames andanotherwasnowstarting tocatchafire…”

He said firefighters immediately got into action and accessed water from open sources as well as hydrants As the smoke cleared, We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) leader AzruddinMohamedvisited Continued on page 30

Frompage29

the scene The affected familieswerealsovisitedby Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn, Public

Works Minister Juan

Edghill, and Human Services Minister Vindhya Persaud.

Notably, the Civil

Defence Commission (CDC) has since activated a shelterattheSixHeadLewis Gym to accommodate the

displaced, providing temporary housing and personalsupplies.

SATURDAY

‘Nowthereare12’ …APNUunveilsMps forhigh-stakeParliament …severalnew facesinlineup

The A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) has officially announced the 12 individualswhowillserveas Members of Parliament ( M P s ) i n t h e 1 3 t h Parliament, representing the party over the next five years.

The announcement was made by APNU leader

Aubrey Norton, who confirmed that businessman Terrence Campbell will lead the parliamentary team Notably,Nortonhimselfwill not be returning to parliament, though he will remain as the leader of the party

In a release, the party described the parliamentary line-up as a mix of “experience, activism, and professional expertise ” Returning MPs include Coretta McDonald, A A , GaneshMahipaul,andNima Natasha Flue-Bess They will be joined by prominent figures such as political commentator, Dr David Hinds, Riaz Zakeer Rupnarain, and Sherod

Avery Duncan Also included are Linden Mayor

and former Regional Chairman Sharma Raheem Solomon;attorneyandpeace ambassador Dr Dexter Todd; gospel artiste and entrepreneur Saiku Andrews; and PNCR ViceChairman Vinceroy H Jordan, who represents RegionFive.

Dr Terrence Campbell, founder of the Camex Group, will serve as the parliamentary leader Though new to the national assembly, APNU stated that Campbell brings decades of experience in finance, l o g i s t i c s , a n d

entrepreneurship.

In an invited comment with Kaieteur News, he stated,“Parliamentisnewto me, but leadership is not. I hope to use my leadership experiencetoensurethatthe APNUteamprovidesproper representation for the citizensofGuyana.”

Meanwhile,formerchief whipandMPduringthe12th Parliament,ChrisJones,was notably absent from the list.

When contacted for comment, Jones declined to speakonthematter

AccordingtoNorton,the selectedMPsareunitedbya shared commitment to accountability, governance reform,education,economic empowerment, and grassroots advocacy “This team will represent the interests of ordinary Guyanese while advancing policies to ensure fairness, o p p o r t u n i t y, a n d development for all,” he said.

The announcement f o l l o w s A P N U ’ s disappointing performance in the September 1 general and regional elections, where the party lost its position as the main opposition The newly formed We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), led by businessman Azruddin

Mohamed, captured 16 parliamentaryseats,pushing APNU to third place. The ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), led by PresidentIrfaanAli,secured 36 seats, granting Ali a secondterminoffice.

Calls had mounted for Norton to not return to Parliamentandtostepdown as PNCR leader in light of the election outcome. While he has opted to stay on as party leader, his absence from Parliament may signal a possible shift in APNU’s strategymovingforward.

Meanwhile, PNCR’s General Secretary, Sherwin

Benjamin, extended congratulationstothenewly appointedAPNU-nominated MPs, commending their “integrity, dedication, and steadfast commitment to the welfareofallGuyanese.”

In his statement, Benjamin emphasised the significance of public service,urgingthenewMPs to uphold high ethical standardsintheirroles.

“It is imperative that we remember the fundamental duty of public service: to serve the people selflessly and tirelessly Your role is vital in shaping policies and decisions that will impact our nation’s future, and I encourageyoutoupholdthe

dedication in this noble pursuit,”hestated.

Benjamin also took the opportunity to commend partyleaderNortonforwhat he described as “exemplary leadership and a selfless approach” during this new phaseintheparty’sjourney

“Hisunwaveringsupport and guidance continue to inspire us all as we work together with our coalition partners to build a better Guyana,”Benjaminadded.

Despite the coalition’s lossintherecentGeneraland Regional Elections, Benjamin reaffirmed the party’s commitment to its politicalmission.

“Our primary focus remains on removing the PPPC from office through electoral means This goal canonlybeachievedthrough unity, determination, a concerted effort, and an allhands-on-deck approach Together,wewillcontinueto fight for democracy, justice, and good governance for everyGuyanese,”hesaid.

Heconcludedwithacall forresilienceandunity:

“Thank you for your continued support and dedication The journey ahead demands our resilience and resolve, and I am confident that, together, we will realise our shared visionforGuyana.Longlive the PNCR! Long live Guyana!”

‘OppositionGECOM commissionersshoulddo thehonorablethingand resign’–Mohamed –Nortonsaysnolawin placetoremovethem

Leader of the We Invest in Nation (WIN) party AzruddinMohamedhassaid

nominatedcommissionersof t

Commission (GECOM) should do the honorable thingandresign.

On Friday, Mohamed told Kaieteur News that he planstospeakwithleaderof A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Aubrey Nortononthematter Earlier Friday,atapressconference Nortontoldreportersthathe hasnointentionofaskingthe opposition-nominated commissioners to resign to allow WIN’s representative tositonthecommission.

WIN won 16 seats, APNU 12, Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) 1 and the People’s Progressive Party Civic(PPP/C)36seats.

Mohamed said, “ of course…We expect them to do the honorable thing and resign,andwewillapproach him because, of course, we are the opposition not Norton, so we’re expecting themtoresign.”

Asked if he expects the opposition commissioners: Vincent Alexander, Charles Corbin and Desmond Trotman to resign with alacrity, Mohamed said he expects them “to resign, ASAP.”

Nortontoldreportersthat the GECOM commissioners – three representing the opposition and three government–arepermanent andthereisnolawinplaceto havethemremoved.

Commissioners Vincent Alexander and Charles Corbinarerepresentativesof the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) while Desmond Trotman is affiliated with the Working Peoples Alliance (WPA) The PPP/C nominated commissioners are Clement Rohee, Sase Gunraj and

ManojNarayan.

At the press conference hosted by Norton, he was asked about the existing composition of the CommissiongiventhatWIN secured 16 seats, thereby making it the main opposition party following theSeptember1,generaland regionalelections.

“[Doyoubelieve]anyor a l l t h r e e o f t h e commissioners who were nominatedbytheopposition previouslyshouldnowmake wayfornewnomineesgiven the new configuration arisingoutoftheelections?”

Inresponse,Nortonsaid: “AsfarasI’maware,there’s nobodywiththeauthorityto move anybody from the Commission except the person on the Commission decides that, that person is going. There is no law to movethem.”

Pressed further on whether he would persuade any of the commissioners to resign and make way for representation from WIN, Norton said, “Well, I don’t know that I want to do that…Because I don’t think it is the best thing for me to do at this stage,” he told reporters.

L o n g s t a n d i n g commissioner, Vincent Alexander when asked to comment on Norton’s position told Kaieteur News that“Nortoniscorrect”.

Calls to leader of Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) Amanza WaltonDesir Walton-Desir’s party, FGM,securedoneseat.

The Laws of Guyana notes that Chairman or any other member of the Elections Commission may only be replaced if they resign, is incapable of discharging their functions duetoillnessordeath.

THE ICE CREAM MOON

One warm summer evening, Emily sat on her porch with her little brother Daniel. The sky was clear, the stars twinkled, and the moon glowed brighter than usual.Emilysquinted.

“Daniel,”shewhispered, “does the moon look differenttoyou?”

Danieltiltedhishead.“It looks rounder. And… is it just me, or does it look like vanillaicecream?”

They both stared. The longer they looked, the clearer it became the moonhadturnedintoagiant scoopoficecream.Notjust plainvanillaeither Swirlsof chocolate fudge and sprinkles shimmered across its surface, sparkling like tinycandiesinthenightsky

Emily gasped. “It is ice cream!”

Asiftoproveit,agooey drip of melted chocolate syrup slid off the moon and splashed into the sky The sticky drop floated down, landingrightinthemiddleof MapleStreet.

SPLAT!

Daniel's eyes grew wide. “Didthemoonjust…dripon ourtown?”

Emilylaughed.“Ithinkit did.Comeon!”

They ran toward Maple Street,whereotherkidsfrom the neighborhood had

already gathered The pavement was covered in sprinklesthesizeofmarbles, and puddles of chocolate syrup glistened in the streetlights.Someonedipped afingerinandlickedit.

“It'sreal!”aboyshouted. “The moon is made of ice cream!”

Cheersrangout,andsoon kids were running around, scooping syrup into cups, collecting sprinkles in their pockets, and licking the sweet moon drips right off theground.

But then Emily noticed somethingtroubling.

Theicecreammoonwas melting fast. Huge rivers

of chocolate sauce streamed across the sky Sprinkles rained down like colorful hail. Whipped cream clouds floatedby,andthewholesky smelledlikeagiantsundae.

DanieltuggedonEmily's arm.“Ifitkeepsmelting,the whole town is going to be buriedinicecream!”

Shenodded.“Wehaveto do something before everythingfloods.”

The kids huddled togethertomakeaplan.

“We need a giant freezer!”onesuggested.

“No, no, we need a huge spoon to eat it all!” another cried.

“That'll just make us sick,”Emilysaid.Shelooked at the sky, thinking hard. “If the moon is melting, maybe we can keep it cool Ice cream needs to stay cold, right?”

“Buthowdowekeepthe mooncold?”Danielasked.

Everyonefellsilent,until onegirlraisedherhand.“My dadhasasnowconemachine atthecarnival!”

Another kid shouted, “Andmymomhasagiantfan forherbakery!”

Emily'seyeslitup.“Yes! If we work together, we can useallthecoldthingsintown tocoolthemoondown.”

The children raced throughthestreets,gathering s upplies.

They dragged out

freezers from the ice cream shop, hauled coolers filled with ice from the baseball field,andborrowedeveryfan in town Someone even brought out a snowblower fromtheirgarage.

Theyseteverythingupin the middle of Maple Street, pointing all the cold air and icechunkstowardthesky

“Ready?”Emilyshouted.

“Ready!” everyone echoed.

The fans roared Ice cubes flew into the air like glittering comets The snowblower blasted white puffs that swirled into the night sky The kids cheered as the air grew chilly and frosty

Slowly, the streams of chocolate slowed The sprinkles stopped falling so quickly The moon's scoop shapebecamesolidagain,its swirlsshiningbrightly

“It's working!” Daniel shouted. “We're freezing the moonbackintoicecream!”

But just as the kids celebrated, a giant blob of strawberrysyrupplummeted fromthesky SPLASH!

Everyoneducked,butthe stickypinkmesscoveredthe street. The kids slipped and slid,laughingastheytriedto stayontheirfeet.“Thisisfun

(Continuedonpage40)

Going to church

byUncleRoy

Thepeopleofourcountry,Guyana, HavealwaysbelievedinGodAlmighty, Andmostofusgotosomechurch, ToworshipandprayforHismercy

Goingtochurchmakesusbetter, Andkeepsourmindsatpeace, Helpsustoalwaysdoright, Andwitheveryonebeatpeace.

Cool leaf mask

You'llneed:

·fallleavesofvarioussizes/paperleaves (optional)

·thincardboard(paperplate/cerealbox) ·string

·scissors

·hotglue

Step one: Preserve your leaves [iron them between wax paper, press them in a

heavy book, or use a glycerine and water solution,askparentsforhelp]. Ifyoudonot, after a few days the mask will be curly and crunchy

Step two: Draw a mask shape on your cardboard.

Step three: Cut out the mask, check the eye holes on your little one and adjust accordingly Punch holes on the sides and addstringstoeachsidewithasimpleknot.

Step four: Using hot glue, apply the leaves. Start with the largest leaves on the outsideandmovetowardsthecenterwiththe smallerleaves.

Stepfive:Tieonandenjoy!

Soletusall,nomatterwhatchurch, Goregularlytoworshipandpray; Thiswillensurewewillalwaysimprove, Andourcountrywillprosper,comewhatmay

TEEN TIME

Make every new day an opportunity to improve yourself further

Beagreatteammate. Whetheryou areinteractingwithothersathome,at school or at a workplace, you should alwaysseethatitisimportantforyouto realiseandactaspartofateam. Make sure you do your part of the work at home,whichincludeskeepingtheplace clean and in good order, along with all theotherthingsthatareneeded.

In your class, you should cooperate withyourteacherandclassmatessothat everyone gets the most out of the time spentthere.

If you are working, it would be much appreciatedbyyouremployeraswellas your fellow employees if you can see yourselfaspartofthewholegroup,and workwithallotherstogetthegoodsand services you deal with delivered efficiently

Do the right thing and do not let others stray you from your long-term goals.

Once you have identified what you wantfromyourlifeonthelongterm,do not let others dissuade you from the path that would lead you to achieving this. Itisgrantedthatyouwillhaveto devote some of your time to

entertainment and other socialising withfriends,butyouwillneedtomake sure that these do not hamper your progressinthereallyseriousthingsthat youneedtomovetowardsafruitfullife later

Identify the things you are good at andplanyourlifearoundthese. Eachof ushasourspecialqualitiesandtalents, andwewillgetthemostoutofourlives if we emphasise and develop these, so thattheywillworktoachieveourgoals.

In fact, once you have identified these talents, you should try to frame your goalstomakethebestuseofthem.

Thiswouldgivethemthebestchanceof success,andyouwillfeelmorefulfilled in making full use of gifts with which youhavebeenendowed.

Speaklessandlistenmore. People haveanaturalhabitofwantingothersto listentoandaccepttheirownviews,and sotheylistenlesstowhatothershaveto say In fact, many times people are so anxious to get their own perspective across to others that they hardly ever listen.

Thisofcourselessenstheirchancesof learningfromothers,whichcanserveto

AREA 51

ALIENS must be kept inside the fence to prevent civilian exposure.

BLACK AND W H I T E CIRCLES are coded using

t h e M a s y u system from J a p a n e s e intelligence

T h e f e n c e

g o i n g

t h r o u g h a black circle

a l w a y s makes a 90°

t u r n , a n d extends for two cells in b o t h incoming and

o u t g o i n g d i r e c t i o n s . T h e f e n c e

g o i n g t h r o u g h a white circle goes straight, b u t m u s t immediately have a 90° turn on at

l e a s t o n e side.

keep them from much information and opinion that would have enriched their ownfundofknowledge.

When you form a habit of really listeningtoothers,youwillbesurprised at how much you can learn, by which youcanhelpyourselfaswellasseethe opportunity to help others. In this effort,itistruethattherearetimeswhen youcanhelppeoplewithsomeproblem simplybylisteningtothem.

This happens because people can find their own solutions just because they know that they have someone who is willingtolistentoandunderstandthem.

The goal of this puzzle is to build a fence fully containing all captured extraterrestrials and preventing cactus-like triffids from entering the [REDACTED] facility The fence must be a single closed loop that does not cross itself at any point!The various codes provided are described in the following brief. There is only one solution!

TRIFFIDS, the cactus-like plantoids, must be kept outside the fence to prevent [REDACTED] contamination.

UNCIRCLED NUMBERS indicate how many fence segments are used around the square the code appears in and always range from 0 to 3.

CIRCLED NUMBERS are always inside the fence; they indicate visibility conditions. This number counts the total squares visible looking north, south, east, and west from the coded location, and includes the code square itself.

PeopleofGuyana,joinwithme, Letuscooperateandbuildourgreatcountry, Stopidlingandwastingthegoodthingsyouown, Andworktogetherforthegoodofeveryone.

Stopabusingdrugsandalcohol, Forthebenefitofoneandall, Putyourselfintosomethingthatisgood, Pursueyoureducationthewayyoushould.

Livetogetherinloveandharmony, Sothatwewillhaveapeacefulsociety; ThinkaboutwhatGodwantsyoutodo, Respectyourcountryanditspeople,too

At the start of a new period of our country's history, each of us should try to improve ourselves so as to make the greatest contribution to its progress.

FROMCULTURETOCOMFORT-GNBSPROMOTES

STANDARDSFORINDIGENOUSFURNITURE

What if the chair you sat on,orthetableyoudinedat, told a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and cultural pride? In Guyana, furniture made from bamboo, rattan, wicker, tibisiri, and nibbi is more than functional, it is a piece of our Indigenous heritage,treasuredinhomes, hotels,andothercommunity spaces.

These items are symbols of artistry and identity, linking generations through skills passed down and reimagined for today’s

modernlifestyles. I

AmerindianHeritageMonth this September, the Guyana National B

u of Standards (GNBS) wants to place the spotlight on another standard - GYS 509:2013–Specificationfor I

(bamboo,rattan,wicker,and

standard was adapted from the CARICOM Regional Standard (CRS 21:2010) to guide the manufacture, trade, and quality assurance

of Indigenous furniture nationally and across the Caribbean.

Thestandardensuresthat Indigenousfurniturereflects its defining traits of l

y, durability, and smoothness, w

ct requirements for materials, construction, finishing, performance tests, and labelling For instance, rattanpolesusedinfurniture must be mature, clean, thoroughly seasoned, and treated to resist fungi and

Similarly, bamboo furniture must uphold tradition by avoiding nails and screws, instead relying on methods like wrapping, binding, or bambooboltstosecurestress joints. This helps preserve authenticity while improvingdurability

Performance and safety are also central; furniture is subjectedtoloadandimpact tests, including sandbag, diagonalload,andstaticload evaluations,toensurepieces canwithstandthestressesof

d

compromising quality or s a f e t y L a b e l l i n g requirementsfurthersupport transparency, providing consumers with information on the type of furniture, manufacturer, materials used, and care instructions.

This gives buyers confidencethatwhattheyare purchasing is not only beautiful but also safe and reliable.

By adopting this standard, the GNBS is safeguarding consumer

in

honouring and preserving Indigenous craftsmanship

Standards for indigenous products help local artisans and manufacturers maintain high-quality, durable, and export-ready products that proudlyshowcaseGuyanese culture while competing in wider regional and international markets Therefore, standards are

more than just technical documents,theyaretoolsfor empowerment, cultural sustainability, and economic growth.

As we celebrate AmerindianHeritageMonth under the theme “Igniting Unity, Celebrating Progress and Advancing Our Culture” , the GNBS encourages Indigenous artisans, crafts persons, and manufacturers to embrace standards like GYS 509:2013. By doing so, they ensure that their unique artistry continues to thrive, balancing tradition with innovation, and cultural prese

sustainability and opportunity

Formoreinformationon this and other Indigenousrelatedstandards,contactthe GNBS on 219-0062-66, WhatsApp 692-4627, or visit our website at www.gnbsgy.org.

A Historic Year for Guyana at

Miss,Mrs.&TeenIndiaWorldwide2025

Guyana proudly etched its name in history at the prestigious Miss, Mrs.&TeenIndiaWorldwide2025 pageant, bringing home an impressive collection of titles, including Mrs. India Worldwide 2nd Runner-Up and the coveted BestNationalDirectorAward.

Among the shining stars was Mrs. India Guyana 2025, Malini Persaud, one of Guyana's premier makeupartistswhocreatedhistory by becoming the first Guyanese to secure a Top 3 spot at Mrs. India Worldwide, emerging as 2nd Runner-Up.

Hosted at the elegant Lalit Hotel in Mumbai, India, the international pageant was a spectacular celebration of beauty, culture, and talent. Team Guyana was dubbed one of the most prepared and best-represented delegations,withourthreequeens, Miss India Guyana Rameshwarie Jairam, Teen India Guyana Darshanie Tickapersaud, and Mrs. India Guyana Malini Persaud winning hearts from day one. The media spotlight followed them closely, with Guyana quickly becomingacrowdfavourite.

From the breathtaking tours of Mumbai'slandmarkstoimmersing themselves in India's rich blend of music, dance, and cuisine, the Guyanese queens carried their homeland's spirit with grace, charm,andpride.

Mrs. India Guyana 2025 –Malini Persaud

A front-runner throughout the competition, Malini captivated bothjudgesandaudienceswithher sophistication,poise,andmagnetic stage presence. She delivered a s h o

Guyana's Mr. HashimAlli presented Best National Director 2025Award

Team Guyana with Bollywood's superstar Sandip Soparrkar

performance an electrifying dancechoreographedbyMrs.India Guyana 2023 and acclaimed leading dancer Reana Roopnauth andsealedherplaceinhistorywith a powerful final answer on the importance of preserving culture and prayers as core values to pass ontofuturegenerations.

Malini walked away with not one,buttwomajortitles: Mrs. Congeniality – for her warmthandfriendliness

Mrs. India Worldwide 2025 2nd Runner-Up – the historic win forGuyana.

Teen India Guyana 2025 –DarshanieTickapersaud

Representing the future of Guyana,Darshanielitupthestage

withelegance,energy,andpassion. Herdynamicdanceperformancein thetalentroundlefttheaudiencein awe, earning her recognition as a true crowd favorite She also proudlyclaimedthetitlesof: Miss Congeniality (Teen Category)

Miss Social Media (Teen Category)

Miss India Guyana 2025 –RameshwarieJairam

In the Miss category, celebrating its 32nd anniversary this year, Rameshwarie embodied the warmth and hospitality of the Guyanese people With her confidence, radiant charm, and fierce stage

onpage40)

she

Clyde Edwards…

lydeEdwards,a

Paramakatoi Village, Region8.

He grew up in an extended traditional Patamona family near Yawong Falls, one of the area's potential tourist attractions.

Clyde recalls he had always been interested in adventuring and exploring fromaveryyoungage.

He said, "I remember wandering into caves with my cousins to look for caimanandanacondaeggs, although we were warned not to several times. In those times, it was just e x c i t e m e n t a n d exploration.Ididnotknow it was the start of my journey in tourism. As I grew older, I began exploring beyond my community, trekking to places like Orinduik and discovering more of Guyana.”

ClydeholdsaBachelor ofArts Degree in Tourism

Studies from the

University of Guyana and currently works at the GuyanaTourismAuthority as the Senior Officer of ProductDevelopment.

“I believe tourism choseme;Ididn'tchooseit. It has always been my passion," Clyde said, reflecting on his journey "To Indigenous children across Guyana, wherever you are, whether in Waipa or Kaibarupai, you will discover your calling one day ToIndigenousparents and adults, support these children.

Their dreams are not hindered solely by economic circumstances but often by a lack of encouragement and belief. The most crucial factor is for others to believe in them, providing hope and opportunities to achieve their aspirations," he continued.

#DiscoverGuyana #AmerindianHeritageMon th #IndigenousPride #IndigenousCulture (Taken from the Guyana Tourism Authority)

WINreleasesfulllistofrepresentativesforParliament

WIN’S 16 REPRESENTATIVES THAT WILL SIT IN THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

ByAllyiahAllicock

Young entrepreneurs haverelatedtothismagazine the countless reasons why they started their own small business,whetheritistolive out their childhood dream, help provide a service to societyinsomewayorbring about an income for themselves.

In the case of Joshua Emptage,startinghisgadget repair business is a way of building a better life for not only him but his child. His

“

Young entrepreneur plays one of the most important parts in society which is showing that it’s possible as long as you work hard for it, age shouldn’t be an obstacle.

small business, Jay’s Tech Worldwasstartedin2021.

Emptage who hails from Mocha,EastBankDemerara (EBD) related to this publication that, “I’m a simple person from the ghetto,Istartworkingyoung because I love money and I don’t like to beg, always wantedabetterlifeandhave it.”

When asked what led him to his gadget repairing business,theyoungmansaid he always wanted to do something important in life andatthesametimeworkfor himself. As someone who

like his gadgets, his interest liesthereandthathesaidwas a bonus to starting this field ofbusiness.

“My skills were selftaughtfromwatchingpeople and experimenting on my own stuff,” he explained. Having garnered the skills from watching others, Emptage said he decided to open his own spot According to him, he currently operates at his Mocha Arcadia home and a stallatStabroekMarket.

Some of his services include repairs to all cell p

“

computers,heoffersGoogle

unlocking and he has accessories and devices availableforsale.

With four years being in the business realm, the youngmandisclosedthatthe support for his work has alwaysbeenincrediblefrom clients and those closest to him.

Confirmingthatbusiness is not always good at times, h

challenges he has dealt with

is locating parts and the pricingofreplacementparts.

Questioned how he has managed to overcome these obstacles, he noted by connecting with foreign suppliersforhisparts.

Speaking about future plans for his business, the young man noted that his longtermistohaveashopin everyregion.

Meanwhile, he is of the v i e w t h a t y o u n g entrepreneurs like him are important because as long as you work hard anything is

p o s s i b l e “ Yo u n g entrepreneurplaysoneofthe most important parts in societywhichisshowingthat it’s possible as long as you workhardforit,ageshouldn’t beanobstacle,”heexpressed When asked what he thinks can be done to boost small businesses, he suggested for there to be moreaccesstoloans.

For persons interested in contacting Joshua Emptage for his services, you can call telephone number (592) 628-6670.

LawsAloneWillNotProtectWomen From Where I Stand...

By Janelle Persaud

Some days, the newspaper reads like an obituary for women in Guyana.Acid.Bullets.Rape. Violence.Ithasbecomesuch a routine headline that we risk forgetting: these are not mere stories they are daughters,mothers,sisters.

On September 7, 2025, Kaieteur News’ front page carried three such stories: “Two women doused with acid,” “Girl, 15, allegedly raped by taxi drivers,” and “Lola Doll shot multiple timesoutsideherhome.”All inasingleday’snewscycle. You’dbeinclinedtothinkof this as exceptional but it is fact a sad and unacceptable norm.

Around the same time, I saw a Facebook post from a friend that has lingered with me.Shewrote:“Atthisstage in my life, remaining single is not a matter of preference alone, but of rational selfpreservation.”

Toreadthatcomingfrom awomanandasinglemother at that, is frightening. It speaks to a reality in which companionship is no longer simply a choice, but a gamble with life and safety. Her words ended with a chilling truth: “Not all men, butstill,men.”

A n d s h e i s n o t exaggerating. According to the Guyana Standard, in 2025 alone, domestic violence perpetrators have already killed 15 women. That’sfifteennames.Fifteen families shattered. Among them:KeneshaVaughn,Bibi Salima Persaud, Jenel Polydore, and Teekadai Atiya Solomon. This is a testimony to a country that has failed to protect its women.

The numbers are sobering Guyana records one of the highest femicide rates in Latin America and the Caribbean (8 8 per 100,000women).Morethan half of women who have ever been in a relationship report experiencing intimate partner violence, and nearly 40% say they have endured physical or sexual violence. One in five women has suffered sexual abuse outside of a relationship, with many reporting their first experience before the ageof18.

Thedataaloneshouldbe enough to alarm us.Yet it is not the numbers but what they reveal; a culture of impunity, institutions that bend, and leaders who

respond piecemeal This makes women’s safety so precariousinGuyana.

Speaking of justice delayed and denied, ask the family of Kenesha Vaughn. She was murdered by her partner, Marlan Da Silva, and yet her case drags on; adjourned, postponed, pushedbackagainandagain. Many believe his family’s wealth and influence help shield him. What does that tell other women? That justice in Guyana depends less on truth and more on whoyourabuseris.

And Kenesha is not alone.Iknowofwomenwho wenttothepolicetrembling, onlytobeasked:“Youreally want to carry this matter further?” Not because there wasnoevidencebutbecause the perpetrator had already intervened, with money, connections, or quiet influence. Yes, there have been training programmes for police officers, but workshops alone cannot undoculture.

It shows up outside the institutions too. During election season, a female presidential candidate was mocked online with a cartoonofherbodytiedtoa pole, posted by someone oftenseenalongsidetheVice President That kind of dehumanisationofwomenin public life feeds the same culture that excuses their abuseinprivate.

And it goes beyond gender The way we treat each other in this country; the insults, the crass commentary, the cruelty all reflects the same aggression which we see in our homes andschools.

And it starts early I was standing outside my niece’s school two days ago and watched children barely out of kindergarten hitting each other with startling aggression. One might want tosaythat’sjust“kidsbeing kids.”

However, research shows that where children are raised in systems that normalise beating, humiliation, and control in homes, in schools, and in policing,theygrowupmore likely to accept violence as normal. These patterns are notnew Theywereinherited from colonial systems designed to discipline and dominate instead of to nurture and protect. Over time,weabsorbedtheminto our institutions and daily lives, until violence became thelanguageofpower

I listened to VP Jagdeo declare recently that “domestic violence has no placeinGuyana.”

He is right But the State’s responses remain piecemeal: a hotline here, a campaign there, another bill in Parliament. And this is where leadership matters most. What we are really lacking is the intentional leadership to ensure that laws are enforced, resourced, and backed by strategies deeper than hotlines and slogans Without that will from the top, even the strongest laws remainpaperpromises.

Becauseonpaper,weare strong.TheFamilyViolence Act, 2024 replaced the 1996 Domestic Violence Act, expanding protections to cover psychological and economicabuseandmaking it easier to secure protection orders The Matrimonial

Causes (Amendment) Act, 2024 modernises divorce law, allowing irreconcilable differences as a ground and givingeitherspousetheright to seek maintenance. These are progressive steps. But they will mean little if the police discourage reporting, ifcourtsdelayjustice,andif society treats cruelty as entertainment.

What we need is recognition that the disease isdeeper Andfromthere,the courage to design solutions thatarebroader:

· Education that teaches respect and consent, not just academics.

· Faith and community leaders who use their platformstomodelhealthier relationships.

· Police and courts that enforce the law fairly and quickly, without fear or favour

· Government and civil

society working together on sustained,community-based support not just one-off fixes.

None of this is easy. But until we face violence as systemic and not merely random or private, we will keep writing obituaries instead of changing outcomes.

FromwhereIstand,laws alone will not protect women. What will protect women is when leaders, i n s t i t u t i o n s , a n d communities finally decide thatviolenceinallitsforms, from the home to the State reallyandtrulyhasnoplace here, and then act like we meanit.

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Guyanese writer Jasmaine Payne presents book to PM Phillips

Guyanese writer and editor Jasmaine Payne earlierthisweekpresentedPrimeMinister,Brigadier(Ret’d),MarkPhillips,withacopyof Leech, herdebutnovel,attheOfficeofthePrimeMinisteronCampStreet.

Duringtheengagement,discussionsfocused on creative writing, the literary arts in Guyana, and Ms. Payne’s future research and work.

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PrimeMinisterPhillipsexpressedhisappreciationforthegesture,notingthatthenovelrepresents “a valuable addition to Guyana’s growing body of literary work.”

Withmorethan15yearsofexperienceinjournalismandapassionforpsychologicalthrillers, Ms.PaynehasbecomethefirstfemaleGuyanese author to publish a full-length psychological thriller with the release of Leech (Office of the Prime Minister)

Guyanese writer and editor, Ms. Jasmaine Payne presents a copy of her book Leech to Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips at the Office of the Prime Minister. (OPM)

Guyana,Surinametoironoutoutstandinglegal...

From page 8

sod turning for the project wouldhavebeenina“couple weeks’time”.

However, Santoki’s party lost the May 2025 Suriname Parliamentary Elections and Dr. Simons was elected the new president. Since then, there has been no further update on the bridge project.

The Guyana Government hadsetasideGYD$5billionin the 2025 budget toward the bridge’s construction.

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Kaieteur News had reported that the construction oftheBridgebetweenthetwo countries will be executed by China Road and Bridge Corporation. China Road and Bridge Corporation was amongthreebiddersthatsubmitted proposals to the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB)officelastyear

According to media reports, the governments of GuyanaandSurinamehadre-

quested funding from China fortheprojectandwereawaiting approval.

The Corentyne River Bridge, once completed, will span approximately 1,100 metresinlengthwith22spans measuring 50 metres each. Thesub-structureisexpected towithstandminorvesselimpact. The carriageway is expected to span around 10.05 metres, accommodating two lanesunderregularconditions and three lanes during emer-

gencies or controlled situations.

ChairmanoftheSurinameGuyana Chamber of Commerce (SGCC), Dr Vishnu DoergainMay2025saidthat theconstructionofthebridge is a necessity and not luxury Doerga stated that the Corentyne River Bridge will be the spine of a new trade corridor reducing transportation costs, accelerating business and encouraging crossborder investment.

AHistoricYearforGuyanaatMiss,Mrs.&...

From page 35 commandedattentionineveryround.Herethnic wear presentation was a highlight of the pageant, showcasing elegance in a stunning traditional Indian ensemble. She also earned the title of:

MissBeautifulHair

Guyana’sNationalDirectorRecognized

Adding to the country’s triumphs, Guyana’sNationalDirector,Mr.HashimAlli, washonouredwiththeBestNationalDirector Award 2025, presented by Mr. Dharmatma Saran, Founder of Miss IndiaWorldwide and IFC. This recognition underscored Guyana’s consistent excellence in preparing delegates and representing the nation’s culture on the global stage.

In his heartfelt acceptance, Mr Alli shared:

“This recognition is not just a personal milestone, but a celebration of the amazing talent, resilience, and beauty of the young women who carried our brand and flag with pride on the international stage. A heartfelt

thank you to Mr. & Mrs. Dharmatma and Neelam Saran and the entire IFC family for this tremendous honour

To the backbone of this organization are our Vice President and my beautiful wife Melicia Partab Alli who work tirelessly, our teammemberOpheliaYhan,DevinaSukhram, Thakur Jagbandhan Ravindra Racktoo, Reanna Roop and our signature duo Miguel Ram and Lisa Calistro, you guys are the best without you, we are nothing, our partners, supporters,family,andespeciallythephenomenal delegates who trusted our vision this awardisforallofyou.

ABrightFutureAhead

Withsuchgroundbreakingachievements, 2025willforeverberememberedasahistoric year for Guyana in the Miss, Mrs. & Teen India Worldwide pageant. This success not only cements Guyana’s place on the internationalstagebutalsopromisesanevenbrighter future filled with impactful contributions, inspiring queens, and more proud moments for theGoldenArrowhead.

THE ICE CREAM MOON

From page 32

chaos!” Emily giggled, wiping syrup out of herhair.“Keepgoing,we’realmostthere!”

They aimed the fans higher, tossed more ice into the air, and worked together like a team of dessert superheroes. The moon begantoglowasteady,frostywhiteoncemore. Its drips slowed to a gentle drizzle, like the last drops from an ice cream cone.

Finally, the night sky calmed. The giant scoop of ice cream moon sat proudly above them, perfectly frozen, sprinkles twinkling like stars.

The kids flopped down on the sticky, sprinkle-covered street, laughing and lickingtheirfingers.

“We did it,” Daniel said proudly. “We saved the town from an ice cream flood.” Emilysmiled.“Andwegotthebestsnack ever.”

Just then, a gentle, creamy breeze blew across the town, carrying the sweet scent of chocolateandsugar Themoongaveonelast happydrip—plop!—rightintoEmily’sempty cup. Sheraisedithigh.“Toteamwork!”

“To teamwork!” all the kids shouted, clinking their cups together before taking a big, delicious sip.

Thatnight,astheywenthomesticky,giggly, and tired, they knew one thing for sure: whenever the moon looked extra bright and sweet, they’d be ready. Because sometimes, even the moon just wants to share dessert. TheEnd!

Follow-Up Questions:

· If you could choose any flavour for the IceCreamMoon,whatwoulditbeandwhy?

·Whatothercreativewayscouldthekids have used to stop the moon from melting?

Guyana,Surinametorevivebordertalks

The presidents of Guyana and Suriname on Saturday committed to revivingbordertalksaswell as to establish joint commissionsonthefisheries sector and iron out issues related to the Canawaima FerryService.

In a joint statement, Presidents Mohamed Irfaan Ali of Guyana and Dr Jennifer Geerlings-Simons of Suriname agreed to the peaceful settlement of bordermatters.

“The Presidents reiterated their unwavering commitment to the peaceful settlement of border matters through dialogue with full respectforinternationallaw Theyagreedforthechairsof bothcommissionstomeetas soon as possible and thereafter convene the 7th Meeting of the SurinameGuyana Joint Border Commission before the end of 2025. Both Leaders underscored the importance of maintaining a spirit of good neighbourliness in addressing all outstanding matters,”thestatementsaid. Guyana and Suriname havealong-standingdispute overtheNewRiverTriangle, which has been recognised as Guyana’s territory since the colonial era. Suriname’s claim to the New River Triangle dates back to the late1800s.

InFebruary,theMinister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd met with Her Excellency Ms Liselle Blankendal, Ambassador of Suriname to Guyana where the counterparts discussed the convening of the Border Commission between the twocountries. That meeting followed strong condemnation by the Guyana government and several local entities of the useofamapataconference

i n S u r i n a m e t h a t incorporated the New River

mutualinterest.

“ThetwoHeads-of-State agreed to establish a joint commission comprising of theMinistersresponsiblefor Fisheries, technical teams and relevant stakeholders before the end of 2025 to further advance cooperation in fisheries,” the statement said.

Additionally, in relation to agriculture, they have agreedtoworkcloselyinthe framework of the Strategic Dialogue and Cooperation Platform(SDCP).

Triangle as part of that county Guyana’s Foreign Secretary,RobertPersaudin response said, “Every Guyanese, especially those of us who hold positions of leadership and influence in this country, should know with certainty and conviction what are the limits of our territory The NewRiverTriangleremains an integral and indivisible part of the territory of Guyana, because it was so determined by a process recognised as binding under internationallaw.”

Persaudinastatementon hisFacebookpageexplained that the starting point of the boundary between Guyana and Suriname was determined in 1936 when a joint British-DutchBrazilian Boundary Commission identified the sourceoftheKutariRiveron thewatershedwithBrazil,as the tri-junction point where the boundaries of Brazil, BritishGuianaandSuriname meet.

“A monument exists marking the tri-junction point, the southernmost point of the boundary

between Guyana and Suriname.TheReportofthe tri-junctionpointwassigned by Heads of the three Commissions to the following effect:The Mixed Commission, being satisfied that this is the only river whichinanywayanswersto the Schomburgk’s description of the Kutari agreed that the boundary SurinamandBritishGuiana, asdefinedintheinstructions issued to the Mixed Commission, should follow the left bank of its longest branch,”hesaid.

Meanwhile, Presidents Ali and Simons said Saturday’s meeting was basically to review bilateral relations and advance discussions on areas of

Reaffirming the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation that exists between the two countries, which is rooted in shared values and aspirations, cultural ties, and geographic proximity, the leaders have

commitment to further

partnership, to promote p

ity, and prosperity for the peoples of

bothcountries.

In terms of economic cooperation both Heads-ofState expressed willingness and an interest to deepen economic cooperation to implement joint ventures of mutual interest. There will also be emphasis on the

improvement of the ease of doingbusiness.

On energy security, both

Geerlings-Simons have acknowledged its strategic importance to national and regional development and have agreed to strengthen cooperationintheoilandgas sector, as well as renewable energy and electricity interconnection.

Both presidents have also committed to exploring joint ventures, knowledgesharing mechanisms, and

investment opportunities that would advance their respective national energy agendas while contributing toregionalenergyresilience.

“With regards to the bridge between Suriname and Guyana, over the Corantijn (Corentyne) River the two Leaders recognized the timely advancement of the transformative potential fortrade,tourism,

Continued on page 42

Career diplomat Elisabeth Harper dies

FormerDirectorGeneral of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Guyana’s Ambassador to CARICOM Elisabeth Ann Harper died onSaturdayattheageof67, followingaperiodofillness.

Harper, who is the wife of former Guyana Cricket Coach Mark Harper, was reportedlybattlingcancer In 2015, she was nominated as the People’s Progressive Party Civic’s (PPP/C) prime ministerialcandidate.

At the time of her death, thecareerdiplomatservedas Permanent Secretary of the MinistryofForeignAffairs.

President Irfaan Ali in a message of condolence said that Harper’s distinguished career in foreign service “was marked by excellence, dedication and unyielding commitment to advancing thenation’sinterest.”

HenotedthatHarperwas “ a n e x t r e m e l y knowledgeable diplomat whose insight and experience enriched every spheresheworked.”

“She was gifted with exceptional organistational skills,” said President Ali who noted that she earned therespectofallwhoworked with her “Guyana has truly lost an outstanding citizen,” the president said while noting that Guyana will foreverbegratefulnationfor herdedicationtotheforeign service.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in a statement said, “It is with deep sorrow that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation announce the passing of Permanent Secretary, Ambassador ElizabethHarperwhodiedat

the age of sixty-seven years old on 13th September 2025.”

The ministry said that sincejoiningtheMinistryin 1976, Ambassador Harper dedicated her life to the Foreign Service during which she served with distinctionineveryposition.

“Shewillberemembered forherdistinguishedservice, humility, and unwavering commitment to serve her country and the people of Guyana The Ministry

extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of Ambassador Harper during this time of grief,” the ministrysaid.

Similarly, Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) party in a statement lauded Harper’sservicetoGuyana.

“The Forward Guyana Movement extends heartfelt condolences on the passing ofElisabethHarper,acareer diplomat and servant of our nation.

From her early days at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to her leadership as Director-General, Ms Harper exemplified integrity, professionalism, and love for country Her journey marked by excellence in scholarship and diplomacy brought honour to Guyana at home and abroad,” the statement said.

Further,theparty,whose leader Amanza WaltonDesir served as Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs in the National Assembly said, “We salute her life of service and the values she represented: dignity, commitment,andthepursuit ofexcellence.”

The party extended its sympathy noting that Harper’s legacy must continue to inspire all who seek to serve Guyana with distinction.

TheAllianceForChange (AFC) in a statement said that Ambassador Harper’s dedication to public service, diplomacy, and her country leaves a legacy that all Guyanesecanbeproudof.

“Elisabeth Harper was a trailblazer in many ways. A career diplomat with decades of service at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, she rose from entry-level posts to become Director General and later held the office of Permanent

Secretary

Sheplayedapivotalrole in safeguarding Guyana’s sovereignty and border security, and was instrumental in representing Guyana in regional and international fora (Caricom, UN,Commonwealth,among others),”theAFCsaid.

Further, the party noted that her 2015 selection as Prime Ministerial Candidate

Guyana,Surinametoreviveborder...

Frompage41

connectivity, and people-to-people exchanges. They agreed to continue close coordination to address outstanding legal, technical and financial matters They recognize that this bilateral initiative is also an integral part of the interconnectivity within the Amazon Region,” the statement said.

Meanwhile, the importance of a Canawaima Ferry Service to the well-being of border communities, the facilitation of bilateral trade and movement of people and goods was highlighted. In light of this, the twoleadersagreedthatthereexistsanurgent needtoreviewitsoperationwiththeaimof improving and strengthening the service’s reliabilityandefficiency

They also affirmed their willingness to collaborate closer on the regional Ferry projecttofacilitateregionalintegration.

“The Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the Strategic Dialogue and Cooperation Platform (SDCP) as the principal mechanism for advancing the broad bilateral agenda of the two countries. They agreed to convene the next session of

the SDCP within the shortest possible time and instructed Ministers of Foreign Affairs to follow up on all decisions and report on progress to the Heads-of-State,” the statementsaid.

The presidents reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the region as a ZoneofPeacethroughdialogue,diplomacy, peaceful resolution of conflicts in accordancewithinternationallaw Theyalso restated their support for all of the constructive efforts aimed at combatting transnationalcrimes.

“The two Presidents reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening the bilateral partnership between Suriname and Guyana and to working together in the interest of their peoples and the wider Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and South America,”thejointstatementsaid.

President Ali thanked Her Excellency Jennifer Geerlings-Simons for the hospitalityextendedtohisdelegationduring thevisit.Thetwoleadersagreedtomaintain regular high-level dialogue, and the engagement of the foreign ministers and technicalteamsateverpossibleopportunity.

Certificate in Diplomatic Studiesin1990.

Harper joined the

forthePPP/Cwashistoric— a recognition of her competence, breadth of experience, and potential to lead on issues of education, economic growth, equality, and protection of vulnerable populations.

“We mourn not just an ambassador and public servant,butawomanwhose life and work challenged barriersandinspiredmany May her family, friends, colleagues,andallGuyanese find comfort in her many accomplishments, and may we continue to build a Guyana worthy of her vision.”

Meanwhile,theMinistry of Foreign Affairs’ website said that Harper started her education at St. Gabriel’s Primary School in Georgetown after which she attendedtheSt.Rose’sHigh School.

In 1986, she obtained a Bachelor of Arts Degree in French from the University of Guyana, passing with Honours. She also attended the University of Oxford where she attained a

Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1976 as a Clerk in the Registry She has since acquired a wealth of experience in international a ff a i r s a n d o t h e r governmental matters serving in every major department of the Ministry with a wide scope of responsibility She served as Foreign Service Officer I in the Administrative Division (1981-1984), Foreign Service Officer II in the Protocol Division (19841988), Foreign Service Officer III in the Political Affairs Division with responsibility for Latin America and the Caribbean (1988-1991), Head of the Frontiers Division (19901991), Counsellor at the Guyana High Commission in London (1991-1995), Director of the Department of the Americas and Asia (1996-2001) and Director General (2001- 2015). As Director General, she also held the portfolios of Ambassador to CARICOM and Non-resident High Commissioner to Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Grenada and St. Kitts and Nevis.

Harperwasamemberof Guyana’s Delegation to numerous meetings of the Caribbean Community ( C A R I C O M ) , t h e Amazonian Cooperation

Treaty Organisation (ACTO), the Latin AmericanEconomicSystem (SELA), the Association of CaribbeanStates(ACS),the Rio Group, the United Nations (UN), the Union of

South American Nations (UNASUR) and the Commonwealth. She was a member of Guyana’s Team for the Guyana-Suriname Maritime Arbitration and was involved in several negotiations on behalf of Guyana both at the bilateral andmultilaterallevels.

Shewasoncechairofthe C A R I C O M Intergovernmental Task Force to revise the Revised TreatyofChaguaramas.

Harper’s distinguished service to Guyana was recognised by the Government in 2011 when she was awarded one of Guyana’s most prestigious NationalAwards,theGolden Arrow of Achievement, for long, dedicated and distinguished service in the GuyanaForeignService.

From2016to2020,Mrs. Harper served as a ConsultanttotheMinistryof Foreign Affairs on Border Matters.

InOctober2020,shewas appointedSpecialAdvisorto the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and in December 2020, she was appointed as Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and InternationalCooperation. She was also the CoAgentforGuyanainthecase regarding the validity of the 1899 Award about the frontierbetweenGuyanaand Venezuelawhichiscurrently before the International CourtofJustice.

Mrs. Harper was born in Kitty, Georgetown on October 2, 1957. A devout Christian, she is married to MarkHarper Betweenthem, theyhavefivechildren.

Few changes to Pres. Ali’s...

Frompage12 strength, upon which we stand, and we will continue to be part of this journey of transformation. And they will be the foundation of transformation that lies ahead of us.” The president announced several presidentialadvisors:Dr MahendraCarpen–Presidential Advisor on Science & Healthcare Modernization; Sham Nokta –PresidentialAdvisoronClimateChangeand Biodiversity, Ruel Johnson –Advisor in the One Guyana Commission, Robeson Benn –Advisor (Ministry of Home Affairs/Natural

Resources); Joe Hamilton – Advisor in MinistryofLabour&ManpowerPlanning. Additionally, James Anthony Bond, Zamal Hussein, Peter Ramsaroop, Anand Persaud, Suresh Singh, Mahendra Budhram, Jennifer Westford, Sanjay Datadin, Alistair Charlie and Sonia Lachman will serve as PPP/Cparliamentarians.

Thandi McAllister and Mishka WhiteGriffith have been identified as ParliamentarySecretaries.

President Ali disclosed that additional appointmentswillbemadenextweek.

WIN releases full list of representatives...

Frompage37

WIN party are Mohamed, Tabitha SaraboHaley, Dawn Hastings Williams, General Secretary, Odessa Primus, Natasha SinghLewis, Duarte Hetsberger, Leslyn GaleLowe, Vishnu Panday, Beverly Cornelius, Gobin Harbhajan, Deon LaCruz, Nandranie Singh,Dr GordonBarker,JanelleSweatnam, Dr RyanRichards,andDr AndreLewis.

WIN secured the second highest votes at theelectionsgaining16seatsintheNational Assembly

Withhiseyessetontakinggovernmentat the next general elections, Mohamed disclosedthatasWINpreparestotakeupthe roleasthemainoppositionparty,“Wewillbe workingtirelesslytoensureweholdthePPP accountable, whatever they promise in their manifesto,theyhavetodeliver,whateverwe haveinourmanifesto,wewillpitchittothem too.”

“We will be on their necks every single day,”hesaidnotingthattheyhavepersonsto focusonallthevarioussectors.

BLUNTNESS ON INDECENCIES!

In case you haven’t heard, please be informed that as part of our continued effort to channel positive changes in our country, our publisher, Mr. Glenn Lall, has dedicated our Page Seven to be “BLUNT” about on-going indecencies in our land that should matter, not only to us at this publication, but the entire nation.

MONDAY–

SEPTEMBER08,2025

Georgetown’sgarbage shame

Georgetown is drowning in filth, and it is not only government or City Hall to blame,itisus,thecitizens.A casual walk through any street of the capital reveals garbage everywhere: plastic bottles, food boxes, bags tossedcarelessly

Despiterepeatedcleanup campaigns by government and the limited efforts of a cash-strapped City Hall, Georgetown remains a disgrace.

The truth is, too many citizens show no regard for proper garbage disposal.We litter without shame, expecting someone else to clean up after us That

culture must end Georgetown cannot call itself a modern capital, let alone reclaim its title as the “GardenCity,”whileitreeks ofrottingtrash.

This issue demands strong action. Laws against littering must be enforced

with real penalties

Perpetrators must be

punished with fines, community service, or whatever it takes to make people think twice before dumping garbage in the streets.

But enforcement alone will not fix the problem.

Citizens must take

responsibility Every household, every business, everyindividualhasadutyto keep Georgetown clean Pride in our city must be restored.

TUESDAY–

SEPTEMBER09,2025

TimeforPresident Alitocleanhouse

PresidentIrfaanAlimust faceanuncomfortabletruth: too many of his ministers have had their names linked to corruption schemes

Whether through direct accusation or public suspicion, the stench of “filthy lucre” clings to the corridors of power This is

not the image of a government that promised t r a n s p a r e n c y a n d accountability

IfthePresidentisserious aboutbuildingtrust,hemust act decisively This week he will be appointing cabinet members.

Competence and integritymustbetheguiding principles for ministerial appointments not blind l o y a l t y, p o l i t i c a l convenience, or ethnic arithmetic. The people of Guyanadeserveleaderswho work tirelessly in the national interest, not opportunists fattening themselves at the public trough.

Alihasanopportunityto showthatheisnotcaptiveto thesameoldcorruptpolitical culture.Lettinggooftainted ministersandreplacingthem with uncorrupted, hardworking individuals would send a clear message that dishonesty will not be rewarded under his watch.

Anything less is an endorsement of mediocrity andgraft.

History will judge this government not by its speeches, but by the calibre ofmenandwomenitentrusts withpower Itistimetoclean house.

WEDNESDAY–SEPTEMBER10,2025

Pres.Ali’s anti-corruptionpledge President Irfaan Ali has onceagainpledgedtotackle corruption as he begins his secondterminoffice.Thisis a bold promise, but Guyanesearenotnaïve.

Corruption has been the trademark of successive PPPC governments, and under Ali’s first term many citizens openly complained

that they had never witnessed such a high level of brazen theft and abuse of power before. Billions in contracts were handed out

under questionable circumstances, state resources were abused, and the small man was left to watch as friends and cronies fattenedtheirpockets. If President Ali is serious,thenhiswordsmust translate into action It cannot be business as usual, where ministers are protected and corruption

inquiriesaresweptunderthe rug.The first test will be his Cabinet.Willhechoosemen and women of integrity, or will he recycle the same facestaintedbyscandal?

A strong stance on corruption means nobody is abovethelaw.Ifaministeror official is caught stealing, then the courts must deal with them, swiftly and publicly Thepeoplearetired of promises.Ali must either clean house or be remembered as just another president who fooled the nationwithemptytalk.

THURSDAY–

SEPTEMBER11,2025

TheBamiaPrimary Schooldebacle

Nearly four years after the PPPC government handed a group of novices a multi-million-dollarcontract to build the Bamia Primary School, the project remains incomplete What should have been a straightforward exercise in delivering education infrastructure has instead become a glaring symbol of nepotism, corruption, waste, and incompetence.

Thisfailureisshared.On the one hand, the amateur contractorswhowereclearly out of their depth and illequippedforsuchatask.On the other hand, the government, which turned a blind eye to incompetence when awarding the contract. Intheend,itisthechildrenof RegionTenandtheirparents who are left to suffer the consequences.

If President Irfaan Ali is serious about eradicating poverty and transforming Guyana, then these are the very practices he must confrontandstampout.

The oil wealth now flowing into our economy presentsaonce-in-a-lifetime opportunity to uplift every Guyanese. But that promise will remain empty if public funds are siphoned off into botched projects and sweetheartdeals.TheBamia debacle is not just a local embarrassment, it is a test case for whether his administration is committed to transparency and

accountability

FRIDAY–SEPTEMBER12,2025

Gov’tandthemedia

The government’s growing hostility toward reporters and activists who refuse to sing its praises is becoming both predictable anddangerous.

The recent flare-up betweenPresidentIrfaanAli

and journalist Travis Chase once again exposed a troubling pattern: those who askuncomfortablequestions aremetnotwithanswers,but w i t h i n s u l t s a n d intimidation. Instead of demonstrating maturity, the president lashed out. Such conductisbeneaththeoffice he holds, yet it is quickly becomingthenorm.

Supporters of the ruling party cheer these attacks, believing loyalty excuses abuse They forget that power shifts, and the same tools of harassment can be turned on them tomorrow.A government confident in its record should welcome scrutiny,notstifleit.Aliand his backers must remember: silencing dissent is the behaviour of the weak, not thestrong.

Israel attempts to oust Gaza City residents through continuous bombing

Aljazeera - Some

900,000 remain in the city amid reports that some who fled south to al-Mawasi found conditions so dire, theymovedback.

Israeli forces have ramped up attacks on Gaza

City, systematically

levelling buildings, including United Nations schools sheltering refugees, toforce900,000residentsto make the dangerous journey south to the overcrowded “safezone”oftheal-Mawasi camp.

The Israeli military continued its scorched-earth campaign on Saturday, launching strikes in rapid succession in a bid to clear the area for takeover, and dropping leaflets warning starving and terrified Palestinians to flee for their

lives.

Reporting from Gaza City, Al Jazeera’s Hani Mahmoud said that fighter jets were dropping bombs “every 10 to 15 minutes” on residential buildings and publicfacilities,oftenfailing togivepeoplesufficienttime toevacuatetosafety “The pace and pattern of theattackssuggestonething:

The Israeli army is deliberately putting extreme pressure on places that are densely populated with displaced families,” he said, addingthatdisplacedpeople werenowconcentratedinthe city’swesternflank.

But, he added, even as the army pummels the city, many residents are staying

put or even returning after attemptingthejourneysouth to the “crammed and underresourced” al-Mawasi, where Israel has been frequentlystrikingshelters.

Dr Muhammad Abu Salmiya,theheadofal-Shifa Hospital,saidresidentswere moving from the east to the westofGazaCity,but“only a small number of people have been able to reach the south”.

“Eventhosewhomanage to flee south often find no place to stay, as the alMawasi area is completely fullandDeirel-Balahisalso overcrowded,” said Abu Salmiya, adding that many have returned to Gaza City afterfailingtofindshelteror

basicservices.

TheIsraeliarmyclaimed onXthatmorethan250,000 peoplehadfledtheenclave’s largesturbancentre.

Reporting from the south, Al Jazeera’s Hind Khoudary witnessed a steady stream of families arrivingfromthenorthtothe al-Mawasi camp, believing that they were going to find “water,hygiene–everything that Israeli forces advertised”.

Three of the IsraelibackedGHFaiddistribution sites are located in the alMawasi area, as part of Israel’s strategy to lure Palestinians southwards However, human rights groups and governments have harshly criticised the GHF after more than 850 people were shot in the vicinity of distribution sites, according to United Nations figures.

Sunday September 14, 2025

ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19)

Youmayrunintotroubleifyou penetrate too deeply today Keepthingslightandenergetic ifyoucan Ironically,theharder you push to get something done, the more roadblocks you'reapttoencounter.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

Give your adventuresome, world-travelingspiritroomto soar This is a good time to embrace and express your dreams.Writethemdown,talk to others, and say them out load.

GEMINI(May21–June20)

Stopplanningandstartdoing. There may be pressure to leaveyournormalroutineand do something on a whim. Althoughthismaynotbeyour usual way to do things, it certainlyisn'tareasonnotto.

CANCER(June21–July22)

The answer for you today is "yes." Explore, and expand yourmindtothefarcornersof your world and beyond There's no need to be tied downtoreality

LEO(July23–Aug.22)

Today you should take action in areas where you usually keep quiet. The more you explore your mind, the safer you'll feel in your external reality

VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22)

There'salight,upliftingflavor to the day, you should take charge of. You'll find that there's a rather dreamy yet expansive quality to this energythatencouragesyouto soarhigherandachievemore.

LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)

Try not to take things too seriously today Realize that the best plans are sometimes the ones that were never made inthefirstplace.

SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov.21)

This is a tremendous day for you, Scorpio. You may find that dreams really can come true Make sure you stay abreast of communication and periodicals.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21)

Don't get discouraged if it seemslikeeveryonebutyouis getting a piece of the pie, Sagittarius Your time will come, but it probably won't be today

CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)

Make some room for long communications with good friends, Capricorn. This is an important day to get the word out to people you love. Keep things light and energetic, whichyoudowellanyway

AQUARIUS(Jan 20–Feb.18)

You may be the party-pooper todayunlessyoudosomething to remedy your serious tone, Aquarius. This is a day for light, social activities and funloving times with friends Don't worry if things don't seemrational.

PISCES(Feb.19–Mar 20)

You'rethemissingpieceofthe puzzle today, Pisces. As a result, people will look to you for answers.The good news is that you'll have them at the

dawn.

The bulk of attacks have been focused on Gaza City, where fighter jets bombed threeUNschoolsintheShati refugee camp, which were sheltering displaced Palestinians.

“People who once lived in apartments are now seeking shelter in packed schools. They are the last refugeformanyfamilies.Yet they get attacked and are forcedontothestreetwithout aclearpathofwheretogo,” saidAlJazeera’sMahmoud.

For the past few weeks, the Israeli military has levelled Gaza City’s highrise towers one by one, repeatedly claiming the buildings are being used by Hamas, without providing anyevidence.

FarajAshour,adisplaced Palestinian who lost his legs in an Israeli attack, told Al Jazeera that he would be sending his 13-year-old son “to his death” if he dispatched him to find food forthefamily

Al-Mawasi was already crowded before Israel’s invasion of Gaza City, filled with Palestinians displaced from the eastern parts of RafahandKhanYounis.But now, it is at breaking point, with new arrivals unable to findspacetopitchtheirtents.

“Iwenttoal-Mawasi,but the costs were too high… anditwasalmostimpossible tofindaproperspotwithout paying extra,” said Ashour “Westayedtwodays.During that time, the tent next to us was bombed even in what theycallasafezone.”

Having travelled from Gaza City, Ashour is now preparing with his family to move back, as part of an apparent trend of reverse displacement, where desperate people return to thenorth.

“Therewasnosafety It’s all lies. At first, I believed them, but I realised it was bettertoreturntoGazaCity If they’re going to kill me, mayaswellbeinGazaCity, ratherthanriskeverythingin al-Mawasi,”hesaid.

The UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, said on Saturday that 86 percent of Gaza is either a militarised zone or subjected to displacement threats.

DozensofPalestinians killed

At least 62 Palestinians have been killed across the war-battered Strip since

Several Palestinians in Gaza City were also injured afterasuicidedroneattacked an outdoor dining hall, whichwasusedasacharging pointforphones,laptopsand lights.

OutsideGazaCity,seven of the dead were hungry Palestinians killed while seekingaidinal-Wadi,inthe centralGazaStrip.

Al Jazeera Arabic reported an Israeli artillery attack on central Gaza’s Bureij camp that killed at leastoneperson.

Hospitalsourcessayfour peoplewerekilledinastrike onatentshelteringdisplaced people at Palestine Stadium incentralGaza.

Three Palestinians were killed in an Israeli attack on the al-Amal neighborhood, northwestofKhanYounis.

On Saturday, Israeli forces continued to target high-rise towers, with Minister of Defence Israel Katz posting a video purporting to show the Burj al-Nur tower crumbling to theground.

Al Jazeera Arabic reportedthatthreeIsraeliair strikes targeted the public prosecution building, southwestofGazaCity

The Palestine Red Crescent field hospital said that five Palestinians were wounded in an Israeli drone strikeonadisplacedpeople’s tentinKhanYounis.

Gaza’s Ministry of Health said that seven people, including children, died from malnutritionrelated causes over the previous 24 hours, raising the toll from starvation to 420, including 145 children, sincethestartofthewar

Caribbean Building Concepts and Logistics Inc. Region 3 Softball Cup…

Four teams advance to the Playoffs

Softballactioncontinues todaywiththePlayoffsinthe malecategoryof2ndedition of the Caribbean Building Concepts and Logistics Inc.

Region 3 Softball Cricket Cup will get underway today,14thSeptember,atthe

Meten-Meer-Zorg sports club ground and will see Anna Catherina take on Notorious Allstars, while Falcons will battle Bacchus Softballteamtobookaplace inthefinals.

The day is said to be be

action packed as the female teamswillgetinactionfrom 9 am, and the winners will advanceintotheplayoffs.

In the preliminary matches, which were played last week at the said venue, Bacchus XI defeated Parika

Outlaws in game one Outlawsbattedfirstand1148 off their allotted 10 overs, with Azim Mohammed scoring a brilliant 66(22), whileSalimJamatpickedup 2 for 13. In reply, Bacchus XIscored115-6off9.4overs with Ricardo Poloram 41(18) and Kawson Joseph 23(13). Rodney Samson bagged 2/14 and Azim Mohammed2/20.

In the second, Notorious Allstars defeated Spartans. Spartans batted first and scored 97-10 off their allotted 10 overs with Lojan 36(17), while Brian picked up 3 for 6. In reply, NotoriousAllstars made 984 off 5.4 overs with Troy 44(17), while Ramsaywak was the pick of the bowlers with2/8.

The third match of the day saw Falcons get past Trendsetters. Trendsetters

battedfirstandscored130-9 off their 10 overs, with Poloram top scored with 38 off 16 and H Boodhoo 31(16), while N Williams picked up 3/22. In reply

Falcons made 132-8(9 5 overs), with A Seepersaud 58(22)andGNarine32(12), OMohamedbagged2/29.

In the final match of the day in the preliminary games, Anna Catherina defeated Elite XI Anna Catherina batted first and made 99-5(10 overs) with Ragoobar40(26)andNazim 27(19). In reply, Elite XI made 96-10(10 overs) with Kelvin Kujal 26(12), while Ragoobartook2/16.

S u p p o r t i n g t h e tournament are 3 S Legacy Enterprise, Paint Palace, Rewind Restaurant and Lounge, Zony General Service and Auto Sales, Archie & Son Stone and

Sand Supply, Khrishna Mangal&SonsSawmilland Lumber Yard, S Maraj Contracting Services, Century Spring Water, Amit’s (Deen) Cell Phone and Repair Shop and Caribbean Building Concepts and Logistics (CBCLInc.).

According to the organisers,softballcricketis the grassroots of all cricket, allowing young, local, talentedplayerstoshowcase anddeveloptheirskillsinthe game, and helping them progress to various levels of cricket.

The organisers further stated that softball cricket at the grassroots level not only allows local players to showcase their talents but also brings people together, regardless of race, religion, social status, or political affiliations.

The victorious Kingsmen XI team posing with their trophies after the final fixture

Kingsmen XI beat Elite Cricket Club by 79 runs to win the 2025 NewYork National Cricket League (NYNCL) 25-over competition.

Playing last Saturday at Baisley Pond, Kingsmen batted first after winning the toss andtheytalliedupasufficient175-5fromthe full quota of overs while Elite CC only respondedwith97alloutinthe21stover Their innings was tormented by offspinners Arnil Ragdnauth (3-19) and Ansar Yasim (3-28) while seamer Kevin Augustin supported with 2-9 from 3.3 tidy overs on a responsivepitch.

Chetram Persaud, one of the openers, offered a fight with 35. Earlier, USA-based Guyanese Mohamed Shaw led the way with animpressive46havingknockedthreefours during his 41-ball stay at the crease for the champion unit. Raugustin complemented a fine, all-round performance by making 39 and24fromInzyKhan.

Brandon Paydana and Marlon Persaud tooktwowicketsapieceforEliteCC. Augustinwasnamedplayer-of-the-match forhisall-rounddisplay

Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League…

Sampson,Pretoriuspower Warriorsintoplayoffs

Game29oftheRepublic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL) saw a re-run oflastyear’sfinalasGuyana Amazon Warriors took on Saint Lucia Kings at ProvidenceStadium.

The Warriors were left needing12offthefinalover, in a tightly fought highscoring contest, with Kings

responsibility for his side withtheball.Afreehitfora waist high full toss wasn’t what the doctor ordered but Moeen Ali couldn’t fully capitalisewithjustasingleto

extracovertheresult.

Adelaytofixthestumps at the non-striker’s end ramped up the tension even moreandthosesamestumps were then splattered by a bullet throw from substitute fielder Shadrack Descarte which saw Moeen Ali short ofhisgroundandrunout.

With four to win off the finalball,DwainePretorious showed he had ice in his veins by dispatching a six over long on to seal the win for the Warriors by two wickets and book his side a place in the playoffs whilst breaking the hearts of St

Kitts & Nevis Patriots who nowmissout.

Earlier, Wiese won the toss and elected to bat first, the in-form Tim Seifert top edging a slog sweep to Hassan Khan off Gudakesh Motieinthesecondoverwas not the start the reigning champions were after Fellow opener Johnson Charles then fell for a run a ball16toleavetheKings272.

Ackeem Auguste and RostonChasethencombined to get the Kings to a more than healthy score of 185/4, Chase finishing unbeaten on

90off55ballswithfivesixes and six fours Dwaine Pretorious was the pick of the Warriors bowlers with 2/36offhisfourovers.

Quentin Sampson took the charge to the Kings in Warriors’response,a39ball 76 helped his side to stay in contention and Shai Hope was in the runs once more with a well compiled 44 off 34 deliveries. The match boiling down to a final ball thrillerthatsawtheWarriors exact revenge on the Kings and keep their tournament hopes alive into the final week.

GuyaneseteamsshineonDayTwoof ParagonInternationalHockeyTournament

Day Two of the P a r a g o n International Indoor Hockey Tournament in Trinidad & Tobago saw the Guyanese contingent,

Saints Hockey Club, Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC), and the Multilateral Alumni Team, continue to maketheirmarkinthejunior and open divisions with impressiveperformances.

Saints Hockey Club’s Under 17 Girls recorded a convincing 3–0 win over Ventures,withgoalscoming from Carenza Copeland, Makaylah Poole and

KadenceBelony

Later in the day, they faced a tough test against Magnolia and were edged out1–0,theirfirstlossofthe competition.

The Under 17 Boys also impressed, defeating Pro Sport 2–0 thanks to goals from Oswald Fraser and Mustafa Ali, who each registered their first strikes ofthetournament.

In the Under 21 Girls

division, Saints fought to a hard 0–0 draw against Magnolias, with both defencesstandingstrongina tightlycontestedencounter

GCC’s Under 17 Boys enjoyed mixed fortunes on theday

In their opening match, they recorded a solid 2–0 victory over ProSport, with Grant Fernandes and Shane LukeSargeantgettingonthe scoresheet.

Later,theywereheldtoa 0–0 draw by InSports, in a match that highlighted the team’sresiliencebutalsothe need for sharper finishing in frontofgoal.

The Multilateral Alumni Team earned a memorable win in the Under 21 Boys competition with a 2–1 victory over InSports, dem

teamwork.

In the Open Men’s category, however, they fell 0–3totheTTDefenceForce (TTDF),whodisplayedtheir experience and tactical edge atthislevelofplay Day Two underscored the growing strength and

SHC Male Players were victorious on the second day

Guyanese hockey across multiple age groups. With victories recorded by all three clubs, Guyana’s junior and senior players continue to show promise and resilience against quality regionalopposition.

2025 Massy Women’s Caribbean Premier League...

PENFOLD, TAYLOR STAR AS WARRIORS SEAL FINAL SPOT AS

The fourth game of the Massy Women’s Caribbean PremierLeague(WCPL)sawGuyanaAmazonWarriorsbeat Trinbago Knight Riders by five wickets with seven balls remaining,aresultwhichseesthemqualifyforthe2025final wheretheywillmeetBarbadosRoyals.

TheresultseestheKnightRidersrootedtothebottomof the table with a third defeat in a row whilst the Warriors go level on points with Barbados Royals, albeit having played onemorematch.

ItwasadominantperformancefromPlayeroftheMatch, Stafanie Taylor who picked up the wicket of Jess Jonassen withtheballandthenmadeapatient39off44ballswiththe battobreakthebackoftherunchase.

TheKnightRiderswonthetossandelectedtobatfirstin Providence Stadium, they lost regular wickets as Molly Penfoldpickedup4/17offherfouroverstocombinewickettakingnousalongwithfrugaleconomy

Jonassen and Dottin provided the resistance for Knight Riderswith51and31respectively AmaidenWCPLfiftyfor JessJonassenwasmuchneededbutatotalof123/7alwaysfelt alittlelight.

So it proved, despite losing the in-form Realeanna Grimmond caught and bowled to Deandra Dottin early on, fellow opener Amy Hunter stepped up with 27 off 31 and Taylor’s runs proved crucial in getting the Warriors within sightbeforeshefelltoShikhaPandeywithjustahandfulmore needed.

AdisappointingcampaignfortheKnightRiderswhowill looktosecureaconsolationvictoryintheirfinalmatchagainst theRoyalsonTuesday WhiletheWarriorswillmeetRoyalsin adressrehearsalforthefinalonSundayatthesamevenue.

$47M Boxing Gym to be constructed at Angoy’s Avenue, Berbice

Steve Ninvalle, Director of Sport, recently confirmed the commencement of construction of a boxing gym at Angoy’s Avenue,NewAmsterdam,Berbice,whichis scheduledtocommencesoon.

The site was handed over on Thursday last for the the project, which carries a price tag of just over G$47 million. It is being erectedbyA.AlliConstructionCompany

Thefirstannouncementwasmadeearlier in 2025 by President Dr Irfaan Ali, and according to Ninvalle, the facility should be completedwithinsixmonths.

“Thisisanotherpromisedeliveredbythe Government of Guyana, and particularly by President Ali, who continues to show his commitment to the development of sport acrossthecountry,”Ninvallesaidinarelease.

Ninvalle,whoalsoservesasPresidentof the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA), stressed the significance of the facility for Berbice, a region that has steadily become a hotbedforlocalboxingtalent.

“The Angoy’s Avenue gym will be the third of its kind in Berbice, joining the New Amsterdam Boxing Academy and the Rose HallJammersBoxingGym,”Ninvallenoted. “Inrecentyears,mostofourup-and-coming

fighters have hailed from Berbice. This includes Caribbean champion Terron Wintz, who has already made his mark on the internationalstage.”

The Director of Sport believes the new facility will not only provide a structured environment for young fighters but also broadenthebaseofthesportnationwide.

“This gym doesn’t just add depth to boxing in Berbice, it strengthens boxing acrossGuyana,”heexplained.“Moreyoung people will now have access to proper facilities,andwiththatcomestheopportunity topursuethesportseriously.”

Ninvalle also expressed gratitude to PresidentAliforhiscontinuedinvestmentin sportsinfrastructure.

“The President understands the importanceofsportingfacilitiesandthevital role they play in developing athletes. His support is invaluable, and this project is a clear indication of his vision for sports in Guyana,”headded.

Once completed, the Angoy’s Avenue boxing gym is expected to further cement Berbice’s reputation as a cradle of boxing talent, while giving the next generation of fightersthetoolstochasegreatness.

Sampson, Pretorius power Warriors into playoffs