Kaieteur News

ExxonMobil saddling Guyana with hefty exploration bill but blanks citizens on findings

Guyana has so far paid ExxonMobilmoretoexplore for oil than it has received royalty, but the company's focus is not on updating the country on its findings, but on moving to develop the resources.

This is according to President of ExxonMobil Guyana Limited (EMGL), Alistair Routledge. He was

“around” the 11 billion figure that was shared since 2022. Notably, the country has since had over eight discoveries yet its reserves remainstagnant.

The last resource count, dated April 26, 2022, declared the recoverable resource for the Stabroek Blockatnearly11billionoilequivalent barrels Since

asked by this newspaper to share an update on the country's oil reserves at a press conference hosted in the new headquarters at Ogle, East Coast Demerara onMonday

Tothisend,hesaid,“So, as we've said before, when wehaveasignificantupdate on the discovered resource, then we'll give you that, but our focus is really shifted to what is most valuable to the country, moving discovered resourceintodevelopment.”

Routledge added that Exxon is “very pleased” to see its seventh project approved by government with an eight already in the pipeline. He pointed out, “It's

ultimately will demonstrate how much is recoverable, how much of the resource that we're discovering is recoverable ”The Exxon Presidentmaintainedthatthe company's estimate is still

then, Exxon announced more than eight subsequent discoveries, including the Seabob-1 and Kiru-Kiru-1 wells, Sailfin-1, Yarrow-1, Fangtooth SE, Lancetfish-1, and Lancetfish-2 wells and Bluefin.

Another journalist then asked Exxon why it was reluctanttogiveanupdateor simply say how soon a new reserve estimate can be shared,consideringtheeight subsequent discoveries Furthermore,shepointedout that this information is crucial for Guyanese to better understand the anticipated revenue flow sector,whiletheblackouton informationputsmoredoubt onthecompany'soperations since this data was shared

publicly following a new discoveryinthepast.

For his part, Routledge noted that the company did not provide an update to the 11B figure since there is no different number to share. He explained the reason for this.

“Well, I can tell you, the number remains around 11. Thereasonwehaven'tgiven you a different number is thereisn'tadifferentnumber And so let me tell you why thatmightbe,becauseasyou say, we've announced some discoveries over the last coupleofyears.

The pace of discoveries has slowed down somewhat but what happens over time iswe'renotjustcontinuingto explore, but we're also appraising, as we

discovered.”

activities have caused the company to reduce its

mentioned what we've been doing is constantly updating those initial estimates with what are our refined estimates, what will be the ultimate recovery of that resource that we've

discoveries,whiletherehave also been increases in some instances.

As such, Routledge explained,“Net,itkeepsyou aroundaboutthatsame(11B barrelfigure)andweprovide

quarterly updates to the M

Resource on all of those discoveries as to what is our current estimated new reserves.”

On Monday Kaieteur News reported that Guyana has been handed a bill for approximately US$2.3B by

exploration activities conducted in the Stabroek Block, but to date, the country has accumulated lessthanUS$1Binroyalties s

o

commencedin2019.

KaieteurNews

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Publisher:GLENNLALL-Tel:624-6456

Editor-in-Chief:NigelWilliams

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

EDITORIAL

Gaza ceasefire

Though it is an old cliché, where there is a will, there's a way, doesn't age. When there is that rarest of combinations, will and skill, then success usually is the reward. After two horrible, tragic years,thegunshavegonesilentinGaza. Wehopethatthey stay that way, and that there will be strenuous efforts to rebuildandcreatethespaceforalastingpeace.

WhydidtheGazaceasefirehavetowaitsolong? Why didsomanymorethousandsofPalestinianshavetodieby bullet and bomb, watch their homes getting demolished? Theyweretheluckyones,fortherewerethosePalestinians who never made it out of their bombed homes when they collapsed.

Why did so much blood, such a reign of terror, and a seasonofagonyhavetobeenduredinawarthatwassoonesided that it was a crime for it to happen, then continue so long? Thoughthereisaceasefire,thepainandsufferingare onlynowbeginningforthePalestinians,whoborethebrunt oflossoflifeandlimb,theirhomesandmeagerbelongings, andtheirpeaceofmind. Howcanthesehumanbeingsnot be shellshocked from their multiple traumas, now know peaceinthistimeofrelativecalm?

The war itself was a crime, and as often described, a massacre, a holocaust, nothing but a genocidal period dedicatedtoexterminatingpeople,asiftheywererodents. A crime bigger than the one perpetrated by the Western powers. WhentheWestturneditsfaceaway,pretendednot tosee,norgraspthefullextentofthehorrorsinflictedbythe Israelis,thenthatwasapalpablecrimebyitself.

The dreadful daily toll was too much, the mangled bodies,thedesperatepeople,thedestroyedhomes,alladded up to provide the grim evidence of brutality taken to the extreme. The hunt was for Hamas fighters, which meant that if civilians and refugee camps had to be battered and shattered, for such is the bitter price of total war In other words, too bad, and get use to the statistics of collateral damage,thedailyimagesofhumancarnage.

When food relief convoys and medical facilities were attacked, with fatalities resulting and supplies disrupted, canthatstillbeconsideredwar? Bloodyvengeancedriven by an insatiable blood lust should be closer to the truth of Palestinian reality on the ground. Where was the West, those countries and leaders that lecture the world about civilization and standards, and the rights of man? Where wasAmerica,theguardianofallthatisgoodfortheworld, when the Palestinians in Gaza were having their noses buriedinthedirt,whilethebootsofIsraelisoldierswalked all over them? Some of the European countries took their time,butcamearoundasthetimesgrewmorebarbaricinthe Gaza. The pressures that developed from the actions of thosecountriesplayednosmallpartinleadingtothedayof ceasefire.

But it was America that had the first say, the most influential say, and the last word. Stop this madness, stop expanding the conflict into the territory and against the citizens of other countries. Stop playing with fire, so that thesituationthatstartedwiththeHamasinvasionthatledto thedeathsofover1200Israeliciviliansdoesnotspread,and becomes uncontrollable. The hawkish Israeli war cabinet knew how far it could push the envelope of war But its members were wise enough to know that it needed the US and could not risk losing its support, its presence as a deterrent to anything that threatens Israel's standing in the comityofnations.

The Trump White House had the Israelis' back above and beyond, and through a conflict that isolated Benjamin Netanyahuandhisfellowwarmongersaswarcriminals. If theIsraelisdidnotcomeoutontopofwhathadragedinthe Gaza for over two years, it was likely that its generals and their civilian masters would have been branded as war criminals. The Israelis won, but at what price? The Palestinianslost,withamiserablefuturehangingovertheir heads.

There is a lot that first needs to be accomplished

DearEditor, Spending$2Billionto$3 BillionUSDonadatacenter while the basic needs of the country have not been fully addressed is not in our nation's best interest. These funds can have a significant positive impact on drainage and irrigation, which continues to be a major problem along the coast; food costs continue to rise, the water system continues to be in dire need of improvement; and most importantly the electricity provided to our citizens c o n t i n u e s t o b e undependable.

CRG can appreciate the enthusiasm of our young President, but he must remember to fix what is fundamentalbeforereaching for investment opportunities thatarelesscompetitivethan the alternatives available to those investors Cold weather locations continue to be the preference for the data centers because of the cost advantages, and the professional expertise that has been gained due to the high concentration of data centers at these locations. In addition, our rice farmers and the sugar industry continuetostruggle;andthe bauxiteindustryandthegold sector have not transitioned tovalueaddedproducts.

The priorities for our

to drive national development

nation must continue to be the meeting of our fundamental needs for safety, healthcare, food, shelter,education,andcleanliving conditions. We need police officers, doctors, nurses, teachers, and engineersfirstandforemost. Let'sspendthismoneyonthe investmentsneededtofixthe currentshortageswehavein key areas before spending $BillionsofUSDonprojects that do not quickly recoup the investment and that do notquicklyimprovethelives of our citizens. Investments being made in infrastructure needtocontinueinareasthat address sea defence concerns due to rising sea levels; in areas that provide dependable electricity; in areas that allow for clean drinking water to be deliveredtoeveryhome;and in areas that will make the flow of drainage consistent and our irrigation systems effective.

When funds are being contemplatedforinvestment in sectors where Guyana cannot gain a competitive advantage and the return on investment is unacceptable, we must ensure that our leaders regain focus on the key issues that will foster stronger future investment and development. Morocco has been successful in achievi

improved infrastructure and substantial foreign direct investmentsthatarelinkedto new trade deals Our government has a similar opportunity but has yet to exploitit.OuryoungNation needs the trade deals with other countries necessary to further develop and sustain the growth trajectory which we are currently on. Our lumbershouldpropelusinto the furniture industry; our gold should propel us into the jewelry industry; our bauxite should propel us further into the oil & gas sector, and the automotive and aerospace industry; our sugar should propel us further into the spirits industry; our virgin land should propel us into the organic food industry; and our new financial strength should propel us in the financial sector via

a strengthening banking sector

Where are the trade agreements for these opportunities?Wherearethe investments to support the growth that our resources canbeleveragedtoprovide? These are opportunities within our reach, and these are opportunities where we c a n b e c o m e v e r y competitive and profitable. OurPresidentandhiscabinet

must place additional focus onwhatGuyanacanachieve with what it has in terms of Natural and Human Resources while also ensuringthattheirambitions closely align with the needs of our citizens This approach must be preferred insteadofpursuitswhichare popularinthemediabutcan result in substantial monetary waste and a lower returnonourresources.

Let's also not forget that where there are super expensive projects there are alsohighlevelsofcorruption and pilferage. The anticorruption initiative that has been recently launched by this administration must be given an opportunity to becomeeffectivebeforehigh levels of government spending is allowed to continue Our Nation's leadership must begin with humility, a realistic view of what is possible, a clear visionforournation'sfuture and the consistent pursuit of it. A pursuit led by them whichhelpsournationmake substantial progress towards thisvisionoverthenextfive years. We must as a Nation maintain our focus, and we must have a clear and consistentmessageforallof our citizens to be aligned withourgoals.

Bestregards, Mr JamilChanglee

The attack on Darren Wade

DearEditor,

I saw a post from Dr Terrence Campbell, APNU, incoming Member of Parliament and my first response to him is he needs toeducatehimselfontherole of a practicing attorney in any society Mr Darren Wadeisapracticingattorney and the residents of this nation will expect no less thanthefollowingfromhim: He will defend clients who areaccusedtoensurethatthe legal system is working; he willdefendtheaccusedsince anyoneaccusedhasarightto afairprocessandhewillbea partytoaprocessthatallows for a fair conviction after rigorouslegalprocesswhich asacollectivecontributesto theentirelegalsystembeing stronger

In many jurisdictions, lawyers like Mr Darren Wade, operate under a "cab rank" rule—they must take the case that comes to them, justasataximustpickupthe next passenger This

prevents "convenience lawyering," where only the popular or obviously innocent get a defense, and ensuresthateveryperson,no matter how heinous their alleged crime, has access to legal representation. So, can Dr Campbell spare us the intellectual dishonesty? Please!

Dr Campbell's post on Facebook of October 12, 2025, exposes his own intellectual bankruptcy and the poverty of his argument. Insteadofengagingwiththe substance of the Comrade's critique a critique you admit was public, early, and prescient, you have resorted to the cheapest and most cowardly tactic in politics: attacking the messenger becauseyoucannotrebutthe message.Let'sdismantlethis pathetic excuse for an argument made by Dr. Campbell.

You commit a classic ad hominem circumstantial fallacy; you believe that

revealingalegalrelationship between an attorney and his client, which he has every right to represent, automatically invalidates every single word the ComradeDarrenWadesaid?

By this infantile logic, no attorney who earns a paycheck from any entity can ever have a valid, principled opinion about them Mr Nigel Hughes represented Mr Nigel Dharamlal on some very serious rape allegations, so thatmadeMr NigelHughes intoaPPPstooge? This, is not how adults debate. The truth or falsehoods of the Comrade's warningsaboutthefailureof negotiations, the dire consequences for the party stand entirely separate from their source of income. You offerednocounter-argument to their points because you havenoneDr.Campbell;so, youreverttomud.

Dr. Campbell writes "Imagine my shock". The

only shocking thing here is your feigned naivete. In the realworld,peoplehavejobs. Party members, analysts, and commentators often have professional affiliations.Youdiscovereda legal relationship and, like a child who has found a magician's secret, you think you've uncovered a scandal. You haven't You've uncovered a reality of modern life, which you are now weaponizing to avoid a substantivediscussion.

Dr Campbell bemoans the "hundreds or thousands impacted by his/her comments without knowledge." This is pure, u n a d u l t e r a t e d superciliousness. You think the public is a flock of simpletons, incapable of listeningtoanargumentand judging its merits for themselves just because you sayso?Youbelievetheyare mere puppets, whose opinionswouldbereversed (Continuedonpage6)

Workers must unite, because while we suffer, politicians live in luxury

DearEditor,

Inwhatisnowcalledthe world's richest and fastestgrowing economy, the cost of living in Guyana is unbearable for the working class. Workers must unite, because while we suffer, politicians live in luxury, gorging on the nation's wealth and keeping us dividedanddistracted.

The Guyanese dollar now sits at approximately $220 to US$1, and in the markets, we are being chargedU.S.rates.

But our wages, salaries, and pensions have not kept pacewiththesoaringcostof living.Wearebeingbleddry, asked to survive in a system designed to keep us poor whiletheelitethrive.

The recent call by the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) to revisit wages and salaries, to bring them in line with a “living wage, ” is not just reasonable;itisnecessary It must be addressed with urgency as a national priority

It is unjust and unconscionable to expect workers to “band their bellies” while President Irfaan Ali and his government loosen theirs, theirwaistlinesexpandingin step with their privileges. While they indulge, we tighten Their diets are

choices Ours are consequences of poverty

Their fluctuating weight is not due to an inability to placefoodonthetable;ours is.

With all the wealth this countrycommands,noman, woman, or child should be goingtobedhungry,butthis is the painful decision many families face every day

Whilepoliticiansliveoffthe hog, the people are catching hell.

Building roads — many already crumbling — is not development. Forpeopleto thrive development must have a human face and this element is being ignored. Andtosuggestthattheonce or twice-a-year $100,000 cash grant is sufficient is an insult.Thatcashgrantisnot sustainable, and it cannot provide for a family's daily needs: food, water, clothing andshelter

In the world's fastestgrowing economy, more thanhalfthepopulationlives inpoverty Thisisproofthat our national wealth is being mismanaged. And poverty on this scale, in a resourcerichnation,isahumanrights violation.

Too many are living hand-to-mouth, stripped of dignity, dependent on handouts or the goodwill of others. This is a national disgrace.

The politicians are governing without conscience.

They drive around in tinted, high-end vehicles, while the very workers who drive them, protect them, and serve them can barely affordfoodfortheirfamilies or to keep a roof over their heads.

President Ali is governing in a manner that sows division in a society whose Constitution declares all citizens equal and demands justice and fair

play Yet, under his leadership, the gap between rich and poor continues to widen, as political allies are fed while the rest of the population is left to starve. This is no way to lead a nation. This is a recipe for unrest.

We,theworkers,andour families must stand up and fight. This rising cost of living is not just economic —itisadirectattackonour dignity and our rights. If we don't fight for basic rights now,wewilllosethemall. There can be no equity, no peace, and no harmony unless every citizen enjoys the same protection and opportunityunderthelaw A society where rights are selectively applied is not a democracy It is tyranny wrapped in red tape and ribbonedwithpoliticalspin.

The attack on Darren...

Frompage4 if only they saw the puppet master's strings. The public is smarter than you think. They can recognize a valid warning, and they can also recogniseacheap,deflective smear when they see one. I have read Darren Wade's commentsofhowhecleared this legal relationship with hispoliticalleaderandgota “no objection” from his political leadership. That reflectspoliticalclassonthe partofMr DarrenWade.

The central question remains: Did you disprove Mr Darren Wade's claims

about APNU's failed negotiations? Did you

provideacompellingreason why surrender to WIN was the wrong characterization? No.

You dodged it all. Your entire post is a confession that you cannot win on the merits of the argument, so youmustinsteadslingmud. In conclusion, your attempt to paint this Mr Darren Wade as a biased pawn is a transparent act of political sabotage against a credible critic and exposes

that you lack political pedigree.Itisthestrategyof a weak actor that fears internal accountability You are not defending APNU; youaremakingitapartythat silencesitsbestthinkerswith cowardlyattacks,andthatis a far greater betrayal than any perceived paycheck from theWINTeam to their attorney, who happens to be aPNCMember

Sincerely

KhemrajHarryram

I call on all members of society—regardlessofrace, class, creed, or political affiliation — to unite in defense of our rights and in supportoflawandjusticein thiscountry

Raise your voice alongside public servants demanding a "living wage," because when workers are paid fairly, the standard of livingforallwillrise.

Let us be guided by the words of Lutheran Pastor

MartinNiemöller:

“First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out — Because I was notaSocialist.

Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out — Because I wasnotaTradeUnionist.

Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out — Because I was not a Jew

Then they came for me — and there was no one left

tospeakforme.”

That day must not come forGuyana.Wehavetofight back.

The PPP/C is growing more insensitive by the day to the cries of ordinary men andwomen.

If this continues, it will have dire consequences — not just for the working class, but for the entire country

Regards

LincolnLewis

Have a strategic plan for moving commuters into and out of Georgetown

DearEditor,

Instead of just blowing his top (KN report 'Ali blows top over East Bank road chaos', October 13 2

government could do some formalstrategicplanningon transport systems before issuing multiple contracts for road building, road repairandmaintenance?

PerhapsMinistersshould endure personally – without an escort of police with

sirens - the slow traffic and crazy dangerous driving every day on the East Bank Demerara (EBD) and East Coast Demerara (ECD) roads, which regular users haveexperiencedforthelast severalyears?

I

he President has even realised that there is a major river alongside the EBD road, which in other countries would be used for a parallel andtraffic-relievingroute. Bythe1960s,therivers

around Leningrad in Russia were being served by sc

hydrofoil ferries to move commuters to and from the centre.

The President's idea of using the expensive Frenchand US-built Coastguard river patrol boats as passengerferriessuggestsan almost total absence of government forward planning.

Yourstruly JanetteBulkan

The Airport Road Crisis – A National Embarrassment

Demanding Immediate Government Action

DearEditor

Iwritethisnotmerelyas a concerned citizen, but as the collective voice of thousands who bear the burdenofacrisisnotoftheir making. The ongoing chaos along Guyana's only main road to the Cheddi Jagan InternationalAirportismore than a traffic nuisance it is a national disgrace that has sullied our country's reputation and undermined publicconfidence.

Formonths,thetraveling public has endured prolonged standstills, missed flights, and tremendous personal and economic losses Airline crews and international passengersmanyvisitingour

shores for business or investment have been stranded for hours The storiesarespreadingbeyond our borders, painting Guyananotasarisingvision ofmodernity,butasanation unable to provide reliable

access to its own internationalgateway

T h i s i s n o t a n unavoidablemisfortune.Itis a manufactured crisis, the direct result of poor contractor planning, inept traffic management, and the absence of effective oversight from the Ministry ofPublicWorks. These circumstances reflect a clear failure of vision in a government that declaresitisbuildingafirst-

No visit to Gaza on this ‘great beautiful day’

DearEditor,

'Agreatbeautifulday'...'a day of profound joy'… a quick visit to Israel on the day hostages were freed on bothsides.

But no stop in Gaza on thishistoricday Itislikethe exclave does not exist or matter Peace brokered in both territories but only one is singled out and deserving oftheesteemedvisit.

WasonlyIsraelinvolved in the war and suffered?

Palestinianshavereturnedto Gaza, a ravaged, broken land,wherenotabuildingis standing.

How could peace be found among such horror, despair and devastation?

Theanswerisblowinginthe desertdustofGaza.

Sincerely ShamshunMohamed

world nation, yet permits its citizens to be treated as though their time, dignity, and welfare are expendable.

President Ali, we note your public outrage at this situation Yet outrage without decisive remedies offers little comfort to the people trapped in daily chaos. Years from now, few willrememberthespeeches, but all will remember the hardship.

We p r o p o s e a n immediate, pragmatic solution: leverage the Demerara River as an alternative transportation route High-speed, largecapacity ferries—leased by the government should operate between the old Demerara Harbour Bridge and the docks at Timehri, making designated stops alongtheriver.Freeparking facilities should be established, and existing large-capacity buses owned bytheArmyandgovernment deployed to shuttle passengers from ferry w h a r v e s t o t h e i r destinations.

Simultaneously, heavy trucks moving construction

materials should be restricted from using the airport road during peak hours, with goods instead

barged to points outside the active work zone These steps would dramatically relieve congestion, allow contractors to work unhindered, and restore predictable access to our airport. Let us be clear: this burdenmustnotbefinanced by the people. The cost of implementing these urgent measures must be borne entirely by the government whose lack of foresight and managerialdiligencecreated thiscrisis.

Guyanesecitizensshould nothavetopayagainforthe failuresofthoseentrustedto serve them. Progress is not measuredonlyinroadsbuilt orbridgesopened,butinthe preservation of the nation's dignity and the respect shown to its people Leadership demands the courage to acknowledge failureandthewilltocorrect it with urgency and compassion. We call on this administration to act now—notnextyear,notnext month with decisive measures that match the seriousness of this embarrassment. Our people deserve better The world is watching.

Respectfully, Regards HemduttKumar

‘CanadacommittedtoGuyana’

- High commissioner says companies here for the long run

C a n a d a ' s H i g h

Commissioner to Guyana, Sebastien Sigouin, on Tuesdayreaffirmedthatthe influx of Canadian companies investing in Guyana underscores their commitment to remaining forthelonghaul.

Speakingduringapanel discussion at the International Business Conference (IBC), held at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown, the High Commissioner highlighted the strong presence and ambitions of Canadian firmsoperatinglocally

He noted that while Canadaiswellknownforits involvement in Guyana's natural resources sector, its interests extend far beyond that.

“But we're also interested and engaged in issues like renewable energies and clean technologies, infrastructure andeducationandthisisthe area that since I've been here in the coming years thatIreallywanttoexplore furtherincollaborationwith bothcountries,”hestated.

In discussing the regional context and what nations must do to attract investors, the High Commissioner pointed to the importance of transparency, adherence to

Canada's High Commissioner to Guyana, Sebastien Sigouin

internationalstandards,and buildinglocalcapacity

“Finally, I would say, from the Canadian side, we're interested in building really a wide and a longstandingrelationship.We're not just here for the short gain. We're really here for thelongrun,andwe'rehere as well to work, to work with both countries (Guyana and Suriname), to develop integration between two countries, whether it's cross border, energy corridors, share infrastructure or food systems.Thesearethekind of initiative that not only willbuildregionalstrength, butalsothatwillallowboth countriestobecomeleaders intheregion,”hestated.

According to Sigouin, Canadawillcontinueto

(Continuedonpage18)

City proposes MOU to settle construction row between Subryanville residents, Mae's School

The Georgetown Mayor and City

Council has recommendedthesigningof a Memorandum of

Understanding (MOU) to settle the dispute between residents of Subryanville, Georgetown and Mae's School.

The recommendation was made at a statutory meeting of the Georgetown Mayor and City Council on Monday Town Clerk, Candace Nelson explained that the recommendation wasgivenbytheCityWorks Committee to address the ongoing issues between residents of Subryanville andtheschool.

Since losing its main campus in Subryanville to a fire last March, the school hasbeenoccupyingsections oftheEasternendofFarnum Playfield to house its operations and even moved toerectaprefabstructureon theplayfield.

Subryanville resident, Elisabeth Deane-Hughes

D e s p i t e t h e recommendations, residents have been adamant that the construction of the prefab building on the playfield is illegal and should not continue. Deane- Hughes told the council on Monday that questions relating to ownershipoftheschoolhave goneunanswered.

The residents have since threatened legal action to preventtheconstructionofa prefabbuildingfortheMae's Schoolontheplayfield.

Elisabeth DeaneHughes, a resident and

Themovehasbeenmuch totheannoyanceofresidents who complained about illegal construction on the open playfield Residents have been calling for a cease-and-desist order to be issued to stop the ongoing construction highlighting the lack of consultation and permitsintheprocess.

member of the group, pointedtoanumberofother issues associated with the construction. She said that these inc

ld endangerment as Mae's is having school on an active unregulated construction sitewithweldingongoing. Additionally, DeaneHughes pointed out an al

electricalfeedfromtheburnt

site to the construction site. Shealsoquestionedwhether the school has relevant certificate to operate followingthefire.

Members of the Subryanvilleneighbourhood group were present at Monday's statutory meeting where recommendations werealsomadefortheMae's schooltosubmittheirplanor drawing for the new school building and for the project documents indicating the timeline for the completion ofthenewschoolbuilding.

Thetownclerknotedthat therewasalsoaproposalthat subjecttoameetingbetween representatives of community and Mae's schoolincludinganengineer that there is a one-off paymentof$2millionforthe useoftheplayfieldbyMae's school along with a security depositof$500,000.

However, City Mayor,

Alfred Mentore noted that the project which has a 15month timeline for completionshouldrequireat least a $1.5 million security deposit, to restore the playfield after it was temporarilyused.

He noted that “The moneyreceivedwillbeused for the enhancement of the playground and any other partofthecommunity.”

Although the school is yet to receive authorisation to construct on the playfield and to rebuild, Mentore noted that the council is being sympathetic with the situation. “We are allowing them because it is a school with about 2000 children that were left without accommodation due to a fire,” the mayor said pointing out that the construction of a new building should be finished byDecember,2026.

“We don't have the prerequisitedocumentofthe ownership of the company, ownership of the property we are still to see the agreement of sale. You said you have those documents which we have mentioned, can we see them?” DeaneHughesasked. Theresident noted that the community group had requested the information for over a month.

She asserted: “We have not yet received anything and it is roughly a month who really owns this buildingitisnotMr Sugrim that is clear Who really ownsit,doyouknow?”

In response, Mayor Mentore noted that he is willing to share copies of those documents with the residents. The mayor noted that the transport and the other transfer of the propertiesweresubmittedto the council as part of their applicationprocess.

“We can send them to you these are public documents We have nothing to hide,” Mentore added.

The mayor stressed that all the documents would be in the possession of the Deeds and Commercial Registry

Additionally, he said otherdocumentsrelatingthe construction of the prefab building belonging to Mae's school on the playfield and new building are also in the Central Housing and Planning Auth

(CH&PA).

President of the

Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) Mr Justice Winston Anderson will be in Guyana from today until Friday for the swearing-in ceremony of Mr Justice ArifBulkan

JusticeBulkan,whoisa nationalofGuyana,willbe sworn-in as a Judge of the CCJ on Thursday, 16

October 2025 by President Irfaan Ali, during a ceremony at the Office of thePresident

According to a press release issued by the court, President Anderson will also pay courtesy calls on President Ali, the Honourable Mme Justice Roxane George, OR, Chancellor (Ag) of the Judiciary; the Honourable

MohabirAnilNandlall,SC, MP, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs; Dr Carla N Barnett, OBE, Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM); and the representatives of We Invest in Nationhood (

Movement(FGM)

The plight of ordinary workers in Guyana

Not so long ago, a father — one of those quiet men who work, go home, and ask for nothing more than a little peace — set out for home after a long day on the job. With his haversack over his shoulder, he took his usual route to the bus park. He never made it home Attacked and stabbed by a gang of youngsters, his life endedonthepavement.

It was a brutal, senseless killing But it was also depressinglyfamiliar Thisis the daily reality of Guyana’s working poor— people who spend their days serving others and their nights dodgingdanger

Public transport is their lifeline, yet it has become a hazard. The ordinary worker

doesn’t drive home in an airconditioned SUV He catches a minibus, if he’s lucky enough to find one. If not, he waits, sometimes for hours, in places that become huntinggroundsafterdark.

And now, as if the threat of crime were not enough, the ordinary worker faces a new misery: traffic. There are so many vehicles on the roads that the minibuses can barely move.The gridlock is so bad that most drivers now make just one or two trips after work and then call it a day Thatmeansfewerbuses, longer waits, and more exposuretodanger

So, the worker stands at the bus park, tired, hungry, and anxious, watching the crowd thin as night falls. For

Dem Boys Seh...

the poor, even getting home has become a battle. The other option, the bicycle, once the poor man’s pride and freedom,is no safer The city’s roads have become racetracks for reckless drivers who see cyclists as moving targets. Every day, the worker on two wheels risksbeingknockeddownby someonewhobelievesspeed is a right and courtesy a weakness.

At night, the bus parks, especially Stabroek Square, turn into danger zones. As daylight fades, the muggers emerge. The weak lighting, the chaos of vending stalls, and the absence of the police create the perfect setting for crime. The death of that worker only exposed what

Parking Gone Wild in Guyana!

Dem traffic police bin busy like bee round Georgetown, clamping down on illegalparkinglikedemtryingfuhwinsome kindamedalfiit.

But lemme ask dem dis: why dem na tek astrolldownRegentStreetandRobbStreet? Or in Newmarket Street in front of the GPHC?Demguhseemoreparkingmadness dan dem ever imagine! It’s like a parking jungleoutdeh,witmotoriststreatin’deroad likedempersonaldriveway

Yuh ever see a car park in de middle ah de street like seh it own de whole damn road? Well, meh buddy, dat’s just a normal day on Regent Street and Robb Street. Dem driversnabusinessifdemblockin’trafficor creatin’chaos.Demjustparkupdehlikeseh demdehponvacation,watchin’deworldgo by while everybody else cussin’and hornin’ likemad.

Dem traffic police need fi tek a crash

course in spot de ridiculous. Dem clampin’ down on some lil car weh parkin’ wrong outside ah some fancy store downtown Main Street and Water Street while de real show goin’on down Regent Street nd Robb Street.

If yuh wan’ see illegal parkin’ in all its glory,jus’takeatripdowndere.Yuhgansee cars double parkin’, triple parkin’ and parkin’ sideways It mek dem boys remember de time a strong man park he car in a ‘No Parking’spot. When de strong man returned,heseeapolicestandingthere.

De police asked the strongly-built and muscularman“Isthatyourcar?”.

“Yes, what‘s the problem?” asks the strongman.

Thecoppointsatthebigno-parkingsign andsays:“SorrySir,itlookslikeweputthat signinthewrongplace.”

Talk Half! Leff Half!

everyone already knows: that these places are unsafe, and that those who depend on them are left to fend for themselves.

Because of traffic, many workers, including women, reach the parks late and end up waiting in the dark. They formlittleclustersforsafety, but that illusion of security vanishes the moment an attack begins When the robbers strike, every man Jack scatters Authorities keeptalkingaboutsafety,but talk alone cannot light the parks or chase the criminals away The illegal stalls and ramshackleshedsthatclutter these spaces must go. The parks need lighting, police patrols, and order, not excuses.

But this is about more than crime. It is about the slow strangling of the working poor Between the choking traffic, the reckless driving,andthefearofbeing robbed, the ordinary man is beingsqueezedoneveryside by neglect, by indifference, andbysheerfrustration.

Last year, a large business secured an order to clear illegal vendors from around its premises. That’s a start.

If one establishment can reclaim its surroundings, whycan’ttherestofthecity? If that same energy were directed toward the bus parks, we could begin to

restore some sense of decency and safety for the travellingpublic.

The government, the police, and the city authorities must get serious. The laws must apply to everyone: vendors, drivers, and criminals alike Selective enforcement only deepens the chaos. Whether it’s a choke-and-rob or a reckless driver on the loose, the response should be the same: swift, firm, and fair

The worker who earns his bread by the sweat of his brow should not have to gamble his life just to get home Most can’t afford taxis or “specials.” Their only ride is the minibus — if one shows up — or the bicycle—iftheydareriskit.

The system has left them exposed, and that must change. By fixing the bus parks, managing the traffic, and protecting cyclists, the government can send a clear message:thatthepoorman’s life matters as much as anyoneelse’s.Thisisnotjust about transportation. It is about dignity It is about fairness. It is about survival. Anditislongpasttime.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the a u t h o r a n d d o n o t necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)

H@RD TRUTHS

The Bharrat Jagdeo Bridge, next up the BJ Highway

Imustrespectfullybegto differ from President Irfaan Ali on the matter of the namingofthenewDemerara Bridge Yes,Iknowthatthe first 100 days of this second turnatthehelmisnotevenat the halfway mark, but I am forced to distance from the decision to name the new suspension structure the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge (BJDRB) With every respect to Drs. Ali and Jagdeo, I do more thandifferanddistancefrom the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge, I objecttoit. Menandwomen are not honored in this manner while they are still

walking around on this earthly pale, while they breatheitsfresh,sweetair A few more thoughts should helptoexpandandreinforce whereIstand.

First, Dr Jagdeo himself should have resisted the internaldiscussionsthatledto thisdecision,naming Itistoo much,toorich,tooearly Let us not make gods of men in their lifetimes It is too haughty,anddaringtoflytoo closelytothesun

Second,tobeclear,Ihave no objection to naming anythingafteranationalleader of the stature of Bharrat Jagdeo, notwithstanding my own recognition and public

contributions to the contrary Buthereisasimpletest,said in a few different ways, but coming back always to the same place If the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River BridgeinOctober2025,then howmuchofastretchisitfor there to be a Mohamed Irfaan Ali Berbice Deep Water Port in 2027-28? Or, to rename the National Assembly, the Gail Texeira House of the Guyanese People when she finally waves her red hanky, and calls it a day? If only to honor her sometimes luminous, sometimes pitch darkness, presence in parliament.

Third, I can anticipate, from the earliness of this unfoldingdawnhowtherewill bethosewhowillpointtothe name Linden and that of Roxanne Burnham Gardens, and say there, what about those! Ifthoseandthere,then why not the Bharrat Jagdeo DemeraraRiverBridge The pointiswell-received

But those who offer that solid rebuttal should chew and digest this: why would Dr Jagdeowantwiththelast dropofhisbloodtobehailed as the new Burnham? His constitution once cursed (like the 2016 Exxon contract) is now hailed as Guyana'sholywrit. Butitis a bridge too far to name a newly completed national construction after a political leaderofwhichthereissuch a trail of dubiousness, if not deepinnerdarkness.

And, I counter further: when was that monument to the south of the capital city erected in honor of Dr Cheddi Bharrat Jagan in the naming (renaming) of the international airport at Timehri? It was not during his lifetime. I need not say more.

Fourth, for the benefit of PPP wise old heads, and the broader mass of Guyanese,

evenintheUSSR,thepowers that were waited until the passing of Lenin to place his name in the national honor register of places I submit that that should be the standard

Fifth,sincethebackofthe hand was given to such considerations in the naming of the new bridge, I point to history with which PPP veterans primarily would be most familiar In the same USSR, Joseph Stalin moved mentohavehisnameaffixed into the national geography withStalingrad,whilehewas still around and carrying on with his lethal barrage of destruction against his fellow citizens. Consider that, please. Sixth, using the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge as the standard of the future, I can foresee withtheconfidencethatthere couldsoonbethattimewhen theNationalParkisrenamed the Charles Ramson, Jr Playground, or the National Cultural Center or Theater Guild ending up with that sameillustriousnameontheir hallowed portals With precedent set, why wait more?

Seventh, now that this namingbusinesshasstarted,I startthinkinginshadesofNat

King Cole's 'Who's next in line' for such illuminating emblazonment before the awed eyes of suitably i

d Guyanese The Anil Nandlall Guyanese School of Law for the World seems fitting, and so does the Bishop Ju

n Edghill Superhighway to the Sky, if only as nods to the grand contributions of those s

glorification of Guyana's civilization.

Finally, the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge is going to be a mouthful and pageful for broadcasters and layout managers, even the initials could prove to be a prickly bundle,atightcolumnfit. I congratulate brother Bharrat, for falling in love with himself, and moving Pres.Ali (almost to tears) to stepping forward publicly andplantingthatkiss.

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

US strike on alleged drug boat off Venezuela kills six

(Reuters) -AU.S.strike on a boat off the coast of VenezuelaonTuesdaykilled six suspected drug traffickers, President Donald Trump said, the latest such operation in recent weeks as the U.S. builds up military forces in the region. The strike is the most recent example of Trump's efforts to use US military power in new, and often legally contentious ways,fromdeployingactiveduty US troops in Los Angeles to carrying out counter-terrorism strikes against drug trafficking suspects In a post on Truth Social,Trumpsaidthestrike hadbeencarriedoutagainsta designated terrorist organization, but he did not provideanydetailsonwhich group "Intelligence confirmed the vessel was trafficking narcotics, was associated with illicit narcoterrorist networks," Trump said, withoutprovidingevidence.

more, Trump says

U.S. President Donald Trump

REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein/File Photo

A roughly 30-second video,whichTrumpposted, appeared to show a stationary vessel in a body of water being hit with a projectilebeforeexploding.

The Pentagon recently disclosed to congress that Trump has determined the United States is engaged in "a non-international armed conflict"withdrugcartels.

Some former military lawyers say the legal explanations given by the Trump administration for killing suspected drug

traffickers at sea instead of apprehending them fail to satisfy requirements under thelawofwar

A large U.S. military buildupistakingplaceinthe southern Caribbean In addition to F-35 aircraft in Puerto Rico, there are eight U.S.warshipsintheregion, carrying thousands of sailorsandmarines,andone n u c l e a r - p o w e r e d submarine.

T h e T r u m p administrationhasprovided scant information on the previous strikes, including the identities of those killed ordetailsaboutthecargo. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has repeatedly alleged that the U.S. is hoping to drive him from power Washington in August doubled its reward for information leading to Maduro's arrest to $50 million, accusing him of linkstodrugtraffickingand criminalgroupsthatMaduro denies.

DeterminedGreatDiamondlawgraduatecalledtothebar

Twenty-nine-year-old

MerissaKassandraBryanof Great Diamond, East Bank Demerara, stood proudly before Madam Justice Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus on Tuesday to be officially calledtothebar Bryan's petition was presented by attorney and legal advisor to the Guyana

Geology and Mines Commission, Mrs Kara Duff-Yehudah, before Justice Isaacs-Marcus, who grantedsame.

Delivering brief remarks, Justice IsaacsMarcus urged the new attorney to always uphold honesty, integrity, and truthfulness in her dealings with the court, clients, and peers. The judge noted that, based on all she had heard, she had “no reason to refuse Mrs. Bryan's petition” and expressed confidence that Bryan would excel in her legalcareer

In her response, Bryan reflected on the trials and triumphs that shaped her pathfromadeterminedlittle girl in Diamond to a newly mintedattorney

“Today, I stand before you not merely as a law school graduate, but as a

Attorney Merissa Kassandra Bryan

woman whose journey has been shaped by faith, sacrifice, and divine purpose,”shesaid. Bryanrecountedthather dreamofbecomingalawyer began as early as age seven, while attending the Josel Education Institute “I developed a deep desire to help others. I wanted to be likethemanIwastoldabout:

Jesus Christ; he is compassionate, just, and a defenderofthoseinneed.”

Shedevelopedaspiritof debating from the age of nine, and worked on her

journey to becoming a lawyer

However,herroadtothe legalprofessionwasfarfrom easy After excelling in her Caribbean Secondary Education Council (CSEC) examinations,Bryanfaceda series of academic setbacks that would cause many to give up. Rejected multiple timesfromtheUniversityof Guyana's law programme duetoGPAcut-offs,shewas repeatedly told to “try again nextyear.”

“.Iwasnotgranteddirect entry into the law programmeattheUniversity of Guyana because I lacked CAPE qualifications

Though disappointed, I refusedtogiveup.Insteadof pursuingCAPE,Ienrolledin a

Communication Studies at UG.IfinishedwithaGPAof 3.0,butwhenIreapplied,the cut-off that year was 3.1. I was told to try again the following year,” she explained.

Despite heartbreak, financial struggles, and moments of self-doubt, Bryan persisted She pursuedadiplomaandlatera degree in Communication

Seventh edition of the Who's Who in Guyana Business Directory in circulation Director

From left: Chief Investment Officer of the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest), Dr. Peter Ramsaroop, Publisher of the Who's Who in Guyana Business, Dr. Vishnu Doerga, CEO ActionInvest Caribbean Inc. Mrs Davitri Doerga, British High Commissioner to Guyana, Ms Jane Miller, Minister of Tourism and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues, Projects Director atActionInvest Caribbean Inc. Divya Doerga and international motivational speaker Mr. Kaplan Mobray, and Training Director ActionCOACH , Keon Smith of the launch

The Who's Who in Guyana Business Directory celebrated the launch of its 2026 Edition, marking the seventh annual publication of this leading national businessreference.

The event, held at the Guyana Marriott Hotel on Monday, brought together distinguished members of Guyana's private and public sectors, international partners, and business leaders for an evening of recognition, inspiration, and networking.

The launch featured an engaging agenda that included remarks from Publisher of theWho'sWho in Guyana Business Dr

Vishnu Doerga, , British High Commissioner to Guyana, Ms Jane Miller, Chief Investment Officer of the Guyana Office for Investment(GO-Invest),Dr Peter Ramsaroop, Minister of Tourism and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues and international motivational speakerMr KaplanMobray Since its inception, the Who's Who in Guyana Business Directory has become the definitive guide for investors, entrepreneurs, andprofessionalsnavigating G

economy

Each year, over 10 000

Merissa Bryan standing next to Madam Justice Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus and her petitioner Attorney-at-Law Kara Duff-Yehudah

Studies at the University of Guyana, all while battling personal trials — including pregnancy and her father's battlewithstagefourkidney failure.

She recalled one of her most emotional memories: visiting her dying father in the hospital. “He looked at thenurseandsaid,'Thisone here is the doctor,' referring to my sister Khadija, 'and this little one is the lawyer.' Atthatpoint,Khadijawasin the midst of her studies in medicine but as for me, I wasn't even accepted to the

lawdepartmentasyet.Three weeks later, I lost my dad. Three months later, I gave birth to my daughter, Umaya Through it all, daddy's words became my promisetofulfil.”

While raising her daughter, Bryan completed her degree with credit, earning mostly A's and B's. Eventually, she was finally acceptedintotheBachelorof Laws Programme at the UniversityofGuyana. Herjourneycontinuedat the Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad and

where she obtained her Legal Education Certificate. The experience, shesaid,“wasnowalkinthe park.”Jugglingmotherhood, marriage, and rigorous academic demands, she encountered numerous obstacles including having to trail a course after failing a supplemental exam shortly after her wedding. Yet,sheperseveredandwent on to pass all six subjects in herfinalyear Bryan credited her success to her faith in God, (Continuedonpage16)

embassies, trade missions,

conferences.Inaddition,the onlineplatformattractsover 2 million website visits annually, reflecting its expanding influence as a

B networking and investment insight.

Dr VishnuDoerganoted “When we started this journey,thegoalwassimple and ambitious at the same time: to create a trusted bridge between credible companies and serious decision-makers, here and across the region That

(Continuedonpage16)

BV school in filth and feathers

…severalstudentsfallsick frompigeoninfestation

Aseven-year-old student of the BV Quamina Primary School,EastCoastDemerara has been hospitalised, while at least four others have fallen ill as pigeon infestation and other health concernsspiraloutofcontrol atthelearninginstitution.

Sounding an alarm over the situation was the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) onTuesday

Inapublicstatement,the political group said it has been informed that the pigeon infestation in the classroom and around the compound is severe. “The build-up of droppings and nesting debris makes the classroom unsanitary. Pigeon waste exposes students and teachers to harmful bacteria and allergensdaily,”WINstated. The party even published images of ill students lying onchairsjoinedtogetherina classroom.

Parents and teachers alike are now fearful that other students may suffer a similar fate, as for nearly a decade now the school has grappled with pigeon infestation and other challenges which pose a threattothehealthandwellbeingofstaffandstudents.

WINsaidtherehavebeen multiple complaints to the Ministry of Education, yet the institution remains in an unacceptablecondition.

In addition to the pigeon infestation, it was also explained that the school's washroom facilities are also inadequate “Teachers sometimesusethewashroom in a parent's home who volunteers to open it for them,ortheygohometouse their own washroom.This is u n d i g n i f i e d a n d unacceptable, ” the oppositionpartyargued.

K a i e t e u r N e w s understands that the school serves 360 mainstream studentsand94specialneeds students, along with 24 mainstream teachers, 18 special needs teachers, and threecleaners.

WIN claims that maintaining cleanliness is nearly impossible at the institution. The party said parents are even sometimes forced to assist in cleaning the school Additionally, therearealsoconcernsabout the student-teacher ratio, particularly to serve those with special needs who may

require individual attention insomeinstances.

“Foryears,theschoolhas sought assistance through several channels under the Ministry of Education, yet the conditions remain unchanged.Wearecallingon Minister (of Education Sonia) Parag to visit the BV PrimarySchoolimmediately to have these issues addressed,”thepartysaid.

Confirmingthereports,a teacher who requested anonymity on Tuesday told this newspaper that she has been working at the school for some eight years. She said the issue has been ongoingforalongtime.

“It has gotten worse because the pigeons are nesting, they are hatching. When you clean over the weekend and go back on Mondays it's like you did nothing,” she detailed. She noted that the mesh that was installed at the school is not “keepingout”thepigeons.

The teacher said that the situation has been reported several times to the education department and other education officials but they have done nothing to address it. According to the teacher, after it was publicly sharedbythepartyleaderon Tuesday,shenotedthatsome health officials came to school and assess the situation.

Students sitting in their pigeon-infested classroom at the BV Quamina Primary School

Berbice woman ordered to pay $60,000 after refusing to testify in husband abuse case

A 20-year-old woman from East Canje, Berbice, who had accused her husband of domestic abuse, was ordered to pay $60,000 after she refused to present evidence against him, resulting in the case being dismissed for wastingthecourt'stime.

The woman, Joanna Ramoutar, of Lot 143, Number Two Village, East Canje, appeared before Magistrate Michelle Matthias at the Reliance Magistrate's Court, where she declinedtotestifyagainstherhusband,25-yearoldbusinessmanKarranSukhan.Asaresult,the court dismissed all three charges, assault causing actual bodily harm, use of threatening language, and threatening behaviour, and ordered Ramoutar to pay $20,000 for each charge.

The case stemmed from allegations Ramoutar made in June, when she took to Facebook to reveal that she had been enduring years of physical and emotional abuse from Sukhan.Inherpost,shepleadedforauthoritiesto intervene,sayingshefearedforherlife.Following her social media appeal, police arrested Sukhan the next day, and he was charged with the three offencesmentioned.

Sukhan made his first court appearance on June 13 before Magistrate Matthias, where he pleaded not guilty and was remanded to prison.

Ten days later, on June 23, Attorney-at-Law Charlyn Artiga successfully applied for bail, whichwassetat$50,000fortheassaultchargeand $30,000eachfortheothertwooffences.

However, during a recent hearing, Ramoutarinformedthecourtthatshenolonger wishedtotestifyandaskedthatherhusbandbe given a warning instead.After confirming that she was not being threatened or coerced, the magistrate dismissed the case and imposed the $60,000costforwastingjudicialtime.

InherearlierFacebookpost,Ramoutar,who isamotheroftwo,haddetailedyearsofalleged abuse, stating, “In October 2018, I began a relationship with him. By March 2019, the abuse started. It began with slaps and then escalated to brutal, life-threatening violence. He kicked me in the stomach, stomped on my head, and beat me repeatedly Over the years, theviolenceonlyworsened.”

She said she eventually escaped with help from her family and sought justice and protectionforherselfandherchildren.Herpost prompted swift action from the Guyana Police Force,whichlaunchedaninvestigation,andfrom the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, which dispatched a specialised team from its Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Policy Unit (SO&DVPU) to provide support and intervention.

Geography, Chemistry, and Portuguese among new programmes for CPCE

Minister of

Education, Sonia Parag has announced that the Cyril Potter College of Education(CPCE)will,for the first time, offer specialised programmes in

Geography, History, Chemistry, Physics, French, Portuguese, and Health and Family Life Education.

According to a

statement f

m the ministry,theministermade the announcement while speaking to the new cohort of trainee teachers at CPCE

Addressingthetrainees via ZOOM on Tuesday, Parag stated that in addition to those programmes, a one-year training programme for guidance and counselling officers and a six-week programme focused on supporting children with special needs will also be introduced.Sheencouraged the new cohort to embrace their noble role in shaping thenation'sfuture.

She also underscored the critical importance of teacher training, noting that education, at its core,

Minister of Education, Sonia Parag on Tuesday addressing the new cohort of trainee teachers at CPCE

is a continuous process of learningandgrowth

The minister said the government's investments over the past five years have resulted in 98 per cent of teachers being trained through CPCE, an increase from 68 per cent in2020

Urging them to uphold integrity, professionalism, and patience in and out of the classroom, she also reminded the new trainees thattheirinfluenceextends beyond academics as they are also shaping the moral

and emotional fabric of the nextgeneration.

“Teach with passion, serve with pride, and inspire with purpose Your students become your children, nurture them as such,”sheexpressed M i n i s t e r P a r a g congratulated the new trainees on choosing the teaching profession and

challenges, reaffirming the

support throughout their journeyatCPCE

Tie-breakinglawfavours...

Frompage7 to reconvene the meeting and comply with the law, failing which WIN intends to move to the High Court forredress

In the ultimatum letter to John, Siand Dhurjon lawyer for the WIN's party in objecting to the REO's approach stated: “You are hereby advised that your suspension of the election

process of the RDC

Chairman and your intention to seek the Minister's 'deliberation, pronouncement and casting vote' is ultra vires, contrary to statute, arbitrary, unreasonableandotherwise illegal.

There is no longer any power held by the Minister to unilaterally determine a n d i m p o s e t h e Chairmanship of any

Outsidethelaw

Senior legal observers say the REO acted ultra vires The law vests no discretion in him to defer the decision to a political office

“The process is e n t i r e l y l o c a l , mathematical, and transparent,” one former elections officer explained “Once the votes are equal, yougotoasecondround If still tied, you record each councillor's disposition,

Regional Democratic Council,withoutmore ” He further advised that the Clerk must follow the procedures outlined under section20(6)(a)to(h)ofthe Local Democratic Organs Act, Cap 28:09, which provideformultiplerounds ofvotingtobreakatie,and, if necessary, the final selectionofaChairman“by lotthroughapublicprocess the Chairman ” The attorneywarnedthatfailure to reconvene the council to lawfully complete the election within 48 hours will result in legal proceedings being filed in the Supreme Court to compel compliance He also cautioned the Minister of Local Government, who was copied on the correspondence, to “refrain from treading upon any path of illegality,” noting that she could also be named as a respondent in any court action should she intervene improperly Efforts to elicit a comment f r o m M i n i s t e r Manickchand and Attorney General, Anil Nandlall on t h e m a t t e r w e r e unsuccessful.

apply the numeric seat values,andtally

There is absolutely no role for the minister The REO's action is null,” one expertsaid

The controversy also raises troubling questions about whether the REO as theaccountingofficerofthe region and a political appointee can be trusted to actneutrallyinsuchpivotal matters, Political analyst GHKLallstated Writingin KaieteurNews,Lallwarned that Guyana's governance culture still suffers from “institutional cowardice”, noting that public officials are unwilling to apply the law when it conflicts with political power. WIN's Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, meanwhile, cautioned that “what is unfolding in Region10reflectsthePPP's and APNU's deep fear of genuine third-force leadership ” Region 10, long regarded as the political heartland of the PNC/APNU, shifted its loyalty to WIN at the September 1 elections In the popular vote, WIN t r i u m p h e d overwhelmingly, outpacing both the APNU/PNCR and PPP/Ccombined

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Worldoilmarkettoseehugeglutin2026,IEAsays

LONDON, Oct 14 (Reuters)- Theworldoilmarket faces an even bigger surplus next year of as much as 4 million barrels per day as OPEC+ producers and rivals lift output and demand remains sluggish,theInternationalEnergy Agency predicted on Tuesday The latest outlook from the IEA, which advises industrialised countries, expandsitspredictionofa2026 surplusfromabout3.3million bpd last month.

Asurplusof4millionbpd would be equal to almost 4% ofworlddemand,andismuch larger than other analysts’ predictions.OPEC+isadding more crude to the market after the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, Russia and other allies decided to unwind some output cuts more rapidly than earlier scheduled. The extra supply is adding to fears of a glutandweighingonoilprices this year

In the IEA’s view, supply is rising far faster than demand. This year, it expects supply to rise by 3.0 million

bpd, up from 2.7 million bpd previously. Nextyear,supply will rise by a further 2.4 million bpd, it said.

The agency on Tuesday also trimmed its forecast for world demand growth this year to 710,000 bpd, down 30,000bpdfromtheprevious forecast, citing a more challenging economic backdrop.

“Oil use will remain subdued over the remainder of 2025andin2026,resultingin annual gains forecast at around 700,000 barrels per day in both years,” the IEA said in a monthly report.

“Thisiswellbelowhistorical trend, as a harsher macro climate and transport electrification make for a sharp decelerationinoilconsumption growth.” IEA demand forecasts are at the lower end of the industry range, as the agency expects a faster transition to renewable energy sourcesthansomeotherforecasters such as OPEC.

On Monday OPEC maintained its forecast that demand will rise by 1.3 million bpd this year, almost double the rate expected by the IEA,

and said the world economy wasdoingwell.

Oil prices declined on Tuesday, with Brent crude trading just below $62 a barrel. That was still up from a 2025lowofnear$58inApril. Chinadramaticallyexpanded itsrareearthsexportcontrols on Thursday ahead of talks between Presidents Donald TrumpandXiJinping.

GLUTLOOMS

The IEA has been saying the world market looks oversupplied. Tuesday’s report said global oil supply in September was up by 5.6 million bpd from a year ago, with OPEC+accountingfor3.1million bpd of the increase. In a sign of extra supply heading tothemarket,theIEAsaidthe amount of oil currently seaborne in September rose by102millionbarrels,which it called the largest increase since the COVID-19 pandemic, partly due to surging Middle East production.

AswellasOPEC+,supply growth next year will also comefromoutsideproducers suchastheU.S.,Canada,BrazilandGuyana,theIEAsaid.

TheIEA’sviewonthepotential surplus is larger than that of others.AReuters poll ofanalystsinSeptembersuggested the market could face an oversupply of 1.6 million bpdin2026.

OPEC,incontrast,expects world oil supply to closely match demand next year, because it sees a much slower rateofexpansionfromoutside OPEC+ as well as stronger demand.

Seventh edition of the Who’s...

From page 11

strongerbecauseofthevaluablepeopleinthisroom.” The 2026 edition, which features the new Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge on its cover, highlights more than 200companiesacrossenergy,ICT,manufacturing,finance, agriculture, tourism, and construction, among other sectors. Dr. Ramsaroop highlighted the powerful alignment betweenWho’sWhoandGuyana’slong-termdevelopment vision. “In 2020, President [Irfaan]Ali articulated a theory that Guyana could become a transformative economy by 2030. That theory became a vision, and every budget since then has outlined clear goals for making that vision a reality,”Dr.Ramsaroopsaid.

“If you follow where the government has been investing, you’ll see why so many of the companies featured in this directory are succeeding; they understood the vision andbuiltonit.Thenextfiveyearswillbethemostexciting periodinGuyana’smodernhistory,aswewitnesstransformationinrealtime.Somyadviceremainssimple:followthe money, innovate, and be part of that change.”

Atthelaunch,MinisterRodrigues,emphasisedthatthe directory stands as “a living instrument of national development,acollectiveofenterpriseandasymbolofGuyana’s modern economic identity.” She commended the publication for “helping local actors project themselves globally, attract credible partnerships, and strengthen the scaffolding for sustained growth across all sectors.” The minister furtherhighlightedgovernmenteffortstodigitizeservices, improve ease of business, and diversify the economy beyond traditional industries, underscoring that “Guyana is open for business, and ready to work with the world.”

International keynote speaker Mr. Kaplan Mobray deliveredaninspiringaddresstitled“ThePowerofCorporate Identity:To GrowYour Business”, urging attendees to “be the bridge for growth” and to define clear standards of excellence for their brands. His presentation encouraged thebusinesscommunitytoembracecollaboration,purpose, andthemindsetofpossibilityindrivingsustainablegrowth.

“Great brands have standards,” he said, “and it’s that standard that shapes investment, trust, and opportunity Growth is not a post, it’s a promise, and every business here has the chance to be a reward, not just available.” High Commissioner Jane Miller also commended the publication’simpact,notingthatthismarksthefifthedition she has supported since her tenure began. She praised Who’s Who for “amplifying Guyana’s voice on the global business stage” and for “shaping international perceptions of a country that is not only rich in opportunity but strong inenterprise.” TheWho’sWhoinGuyanaBusinessDirectoryProducedbyActionINVESTCaribbeanInc.,theWho’s Who in Guyana Business Directory serves as the premier platformforcorporatevisibility,investorengagement,and industrynetworking.Itsprintedanddigitaleditionscollectively amplify the voices of Guyana’s leading enterprises while providing credible, accessible information to local and international stakeholders. For more information or to access the digital directory, visit www.whoswho.gy

Determined Great Diamond...

From page 11

the unwavering support of her mother, who sacrificed her mortgageplanstofundherstudies,andherfamilyandfriends who encouraged her throughout. She also expressed heartfelt gratitude to her husband, Nigel, who “prayed and fasted with me through every challenge,” and to her three-year-old daughter, whose innocent countdowns until her mother’s return home gave her strength. “Your honour,” she declared, “thismomentisnotjustaboutenteringaprofession.It’sabout fulfilling a calling. I do so not merely as a lawyer, but as a servant a servant of justice, of truth, and of people,” she told the court. Bryan expressed a keen interest in corporate law, conveyancing, and family law, areas she believes are vital to both individual and national development.

As she concluded her speech, she reflected on the road that brought her to this moment.

“To everyone who walked this road with me, this victory is ours.AndtotheGodofheaven,myguide,mystrength,my waymaker , thank you. I vow to carry out this calling with humility, honour, and the fire of divine purpose.”

Hicken floods East Bank with cops

…after Pres. Ali's furious rebuke over traffic chaos

Traffic hell along the East Bank

D e m e r a r a corridor has finally forced thehandoflawenforcement.

Following President Irfaan Ali's blistering attack on what he branded “gross

mismanagement” and “slackness,” Commissioner ofPoliceCliftonHickenhas ordered a flood of ranks to the congested highway in a desperatebidtorestoreorder According to a police statement on Tuesday, Commissioner Hicken,

accompanied by the Commander of Regional Division 4B, the Division's Traffic Officer Michael Ramdass, and his Personal Assistant, ASP Kevindra Lall, visited the project site to assess the situation and implement new measures aimed at ensuring smoother traffic flow “Commissioner

Hicken issued strict instructions for an increased presenceoftrafficranksand emphasised that firm action must be taken against road users, particularly truck drivers,whodisregardtraffic regulations and endanger public safety,” the police statementnoted.

In an interview with Kaieteur News, Traffic

C h i e f , A s s i s t a n t Commissioner of Police, Mahendra Singh confirmed that more than 25 traffic ranksarecurrentlydeployed between the Highway Base, Madewini, and Soesdyke to assistwithtrafficcontrol.He explained that while ranks

cannot be stationed continuously day and night due to rotation requirements under standard operating procedures, their presence has already made a difference “Those ranks manage multiple roadways on rotation. The sustained presenceistoenhancetraffic

management while also factoring their time off and issuesofwelfare,”hesaid. Singh further stated that e v e n b e f o r e t h e

Commissioner's directives, additional ranks had been deployed to the area. “We sent additional ranks equippedwithbodycameras andradionetworkforeaseof communication and to bolster the presence for directional flow of traffic andtoidentifythosewhoare constantlybreakingthelaws on the road, such as over taking multiple vehicles; driving in a manner that is careless and dangerous, fail to comply with signs or directions Our presence complements the measures inplacebythecontractorand consultant,”Singhsaid.

Addressing concerns

about drivers using alternative routes to bypass congestion, and disobeying the laws on the road, Singh warned that those caught will face prosecution

“Motorists, chief among them mini bus operators duringthepeakhoursandas recent as this morning, overtook the line, they have been identified and those who are already located and vehicle examined are forewarned of prosecution for the offence,” he stated. He also emphasized that offenders,regardlessoftheir alignment will face charges.

“Iwanttobefair Mindyou, the overtaking is not only done by private oriented persons.Somepersonsfrom the joint service overtake as well, drivers who utilize utility vehicles from ministries, do the same, “Singhadded.

Heurgedallmotoriststo follow traffic regulations, saying, “If everyone complied with the rules and drove within the available

space, we wouldn't have incidents like the one involving the bus driver on thenewbridge.”

The Commissioner's order follows president IrfaanAli'sstrongrebukeon Sunday after days of severe gridlock left commuters frustrated The President convened an emergency meetingwithseniorofficials from the Ministry of Public Works, the Guyana Police Force, the Coast Guard, the Chinese contractor China Road & Bridge Corporation (CRBC),andtheU.S.-based consultant She

adia Associates Inc., criticizing what he described as “gross mismanagem

nt” and “slackness.”

President Ali demanded an immediate restructuring o

n

w

rk coordination, ordering that daily work plans be shared with the traffic control team and that all opened areas be usable by the next day To crack down on reckless driving and lawlessness, president Ali instructed Police Commissioner CliftonHickentoestablisha permanent control base along the corridor, using containerised command posts and 24-hour drone surveillance to monitor trafficandidentifyviolators. The president made it clear thathispatiencehadrunout. “All the trucks that are breaking the rules, all the trucks that are breaking the laws, forming three lanes andfourlanes—youhaveto charge the drivers,” the President warned bluntly Mr Ali also ordered the control room moved closer to the construction site and demanded a new work plan showing how additional machinery and manpower w i l l b e d e p l o y e d immediately to accelerate

progress.

He also instructed the Coast Guard and the Police MarineUnittobeonstandby to ferry passengers to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport if traffic becomes unmanageable Ali concluded with a stern warning that no further

excuses will be tolerated.

“ T h e r e m u s t b e coordination,teamwork,and precisioningettingthiswork done,” he said, signaling a zero-tolerance approach to mismanagement and indisciplinealongoneofthe country's most vital transportationcorridors.

Israelkills9PalestiniansdespiteGazatruce

(AL-JAZEERA) Israeli soldiers killed at least nine Palestinianstryingtoreturn to their homes in northern Gaza City and southern KhanYounisonTuesday,in the first major violation since the US-brokered ceasefire began. The Gaza Health Ministry also reportedthat44bodieswere brought to hospitals in the past 24 hours as well as 29 peoplewhowerewounded.

The ministry said the remainsof38ofthosekilled were retrieved from under rubble, adding that a number of victims still remained trapped, with

ambulance and Civil Defence crews unable to reachthem.

Under the US-brokered ceasefire,atleast600trucks carryingdesperatelyneeded aid should be entering warbatteredGazaeachday

However, Israel continues to block major crossing routes and restrict s u p p l i e s “To m y knowledge not all entry points are open to have humanitarian aid inside

Gaza, and that's the main issue right now,” said Christian Cardon, an International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) spokespersonfromGeneva.

“That's what the ICRC has been calling for in the last few hours – is making sure because of the huge needs that all entry points canbeopened.”

TheIsraelimilitarysays it was informed by the Red Cross that four bodies of slain captives have been handed over to the rescue group and are making their way towards Israeli army positionsinGaza

The remains of at least eight abductees have now beenhandedoverinthepast 24 hours. Earlier, Israel said itisonlyallowingin300aid trucks per day into starving Gaza because Hamas is moving too slow in handing over the bodies of dead captives US President Donald Trump has said HamasassuredUnitedStates mediatorsitwoulddisarm andhaswarnedthatifitdidn't doso,theUSwould

“Iftheydon'tdisarm,we will disarm them, and it'll happen quickly and perhaps violently,” Trump said at a White House press conference.

“I spoke to Hamas and I said, 'You're going to disarm,right?''Yessir,we're going to disarm,' that's what they told me. They will disarm or we will disarm them.”

Israelhasdemandedthat Gaza be demilitarised and that Hamas hand over its weapons The group's leaders, however, have been ambivalentabouttheissue.

The US president has hailed the release of Israeli captives in Gaza and assertedtheceasefiredealis immediately moving to its next stage toward a permanentendtothewar

“All 20 hostages are back and feeling as good as can be expected A big burden has been lifted, but the job is not done,” Trump wroteinasocialmediapost.

“Thedeadhavenotbeen returned, as promised! Phase Two begins right now!!!”

Trump's post comes as Israel announced it will only allow 300 aid trucks into Gaza each day, half of what it agreed to under the ceasefire. It said the move was made because of Hamas's slow effort to hand over the bodies of dead captives Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad

Mustafasaysendingthewar in Gaza is a “fundamental step” towards restoring normallifeaftertwoyearsof immensesufferingbutwarns thatitmarksonlythestartofa newphase “Thecessationof war alone is not enough to end the tragedy,” Mustafa saidatthestartoftheweekly cabinet meeting in Ramallah

“The real guarantee for peace and security as well as for preventing a recurrence of what has h a p p e n e d l i e s i n empoweringthePalestinian government to fully perform its responsibilities intheGazaStripaspartofits national duty towards our peopleeverywhere.

“The challenges are immense, and the responsibilityisgreat ” 'Wide-ranging, longrunning task' to put Gaza backtogether

The situation in Gaza remains desperate because of the level of destruction inflicted by Israeli attacks on civilian infrastructure

including hospitals, drinking water facilities, andsewagesystems.

“ W h i l e w e a r e

attemptingtogetinasmany items as we can, and other international organisations are also doing this, it is a response that will take weeks rather than days to respond to the widespread damage,”saidSarahDavies, a spokesperson from the International Committee of theRedCross.

While the cessation of hostilities is welcome, Davies noted “this doesn't mean things change overnightinGaza”

“This is going to take weeks, months, if not years to get back to the standard of functioning that it was

prior to two years ago It reallyisawide-rangingand long-running task ahead of us,”shetoldAlJazeera.

Palestinians in Gaza have appealed for the international community to move quickly to restore some semblance of normality in the largely destroyedStrip

MohamadAbuHajras,a displaced Palestinian from southern Khan Younis, said he's hopeful the ceasefire agreement will swiftly lead toGaza'sreconstruction

“ T h e r e i s n o infrastructure, electricity, water, or anything that is fit forlife,”AbuHajrassaid

On Tuesday, the UN development agency said the latest joint estimate from the UN, the European Union, and the World Bank is that $70bn will be requiredtorebuildGaza Jaco Cilliers, a special representative for the agency, said $20bn would be needed in the next three years,andtherestwouldbe neededoveralongerperiod –possiblydecades

Canadian business delegation explores investment opportunities in Guyana

A Canadian business delegation organised by the High Commission of Canada to Guyana, is currently in the country as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen trade and investment ties between the twonations.

The delegation, which willleaveonFridayincludes

representatives from BionetixInternational,Sprig Learning Inc., 4Pay Inc., FreeBalance Inc., and EMagic Solutions, five companies representing diverse sectors such as financial technology (FinTech), information and communications technology (ICT), infrastructure, education,andsanitation.

Their visit is aimed at d e e p e n i n g t h e i r understanding of the Guyanesemarket,exploring potentialcollaborations,and consolidating existing partnerships, the Canadian High Commission said Later in the week, they will

bejoinedbyarepresentative of Export Development Canada, Canada's export credit and insurance agency for exporters with Canadian content. According to the High Commission of Canada, the visit forms part

‘Canada committed to Guyana’

Frompage6

build partnerships grounded in trust, transparency, and a shared sense of regional cooperation aimed at p r o s p e r i t y a n d responsibility

When asked what he would like to see in Guyana over the next five years, the High Commissioner said he hopes to see more Canadian businesses establishing operations both in Guyana andneighbouringSuriname.

“Because they (Canadian companies) found the transparency and all the issues that I raised before,

and also that more businesses that are using Guyana and Suriname as springboard to other countries, whether it's in the Caribbean,inBrazilorother parts of SouthAmerica,” he noted.

T h e H i g h Commissioner's comments come as several Canadian mining companies continue toexpandtheiroperationsin Guyana's gold sector Currently, five Canadian firmscollectivelycontrolan estimated 15 5 million ounces of gold across various stages of

development.Theseprojects spanning several of Guyana'sminingregionsare advancing through exploration, feasibility studies, and permitting phases.

M a n y o f t h e s e companies have praised Guyana's mining-friendly policies and are banking on these projects to deliver substantial returns for their shareholders.

It should be noted that there are other Canadian companies also operating within Guyana's mining sector.

ofCanada'sbroaderstrategy tofostergreatercommercial cooperation with Guyana and the wider Caribbean. Over the four-day program, delegateswillparticipateina series of market knowledge

sessions, high-level meetings with government ministers and heads of agencies, and an extensive business-to-business (B2B) program connecting them withlocalenterprises.

A key highlight of the programme will be on-theground site visits, providing participants with firsthand insightintoGuyana'srapidly developing infrastructure and investment climate. Thesesitevisitsareintended to bridge the gap between business dialogue and practical understanding of the opportunities and challenges that exist across multiple sectors. Speaking on the trade mission, High Commissioner of Canada to

Guyana, H E Sebastien Sigouin noted that the initiative is part of an ongoing effort to connect Canadian innovation with Guyanese opportunity

“Canadahasalong-standing relationship with Guyana built on trust, cooperation, andmutualrespect,”hesaid.

“Thisvisitdemonstratesour continued commitment to supporting Guyana's development priorities through partnerships that encourage innovation, knowledge transfer, and sustainablegrowth.”

The participating companies each bring distinct expertise: Bionetix International specialises in biotechnology solutions for environmental sanitation andwastetreatment.

Sprig Learning Inc develops adaptive digital learning platforms tailored forearlyeducation.

4Pay Inc provides

secure digital payment and FinTech solutions for both businessesandconsumers.

FreeBalance Inc is recognized globally for its work in public financial management and digital governance.

E-Magic Solutions delivers smart infrastructure anddigitaltwintechnologies that optimize public and privatesectoroperations. These companies will explore how their products and services can contribute to Guyana's modernization drive- particularly as the nation expands its digital economy, infrastructure base,andsocialservices.

The High Commission emphasised that the mission is not only about promoting Canadian business interests, but also about fostering partnerships that can generate long-term, inclusive benefits The delegation's presence reinforces Canada's confidence in Guyana's economic trajectory and the value of building partnerships rooted in transparency, sustainability, and mutual prosperity The delegation's visit underscores the growing momentum in CanadaGuyana commercial relations. It marks another step toward unlocking shared opportunities and building a more resilient, innovativefuturetogether.

Tie-breaking law favours WIN in Reg. 10

…REOignoredmandatorysecondround,numericalcomputationclauseinCap.28:09

T

he We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) Party

will likely secure chairmanship of Region 10 and legal experts have knocked the REO, Dwight John for allegedly breaking the law when he adjourned the meeting after the first round of voting for a chairmanthatproducedatie between the candidates last Friday

The Local Democratic Organs Act (Cap. 28:09),

whichwasamendedin2018 specifically outlined the provisions governing how a tiemustberesolved.

When the vote for Chairmanendedina9–9tie between WIN's Mark Goring and APNU's Dominique Blair last week, John abruptly halted the processanddeclaredthatthe matter would be referred to the Minister of Local Government, Priya Manickchandforresolution.

Thatact,legalexpertsagree, wasflatlyunlawful.

No need for Priya Attorney-at-law and Leader of the Forward GuyanaMovement,Amanza Walton-Desir pointed out to this newspaper that under Section 20 (6) of the Local Democratic Organs Act as amended by the Local Authorities (Elections) (Amendment) Act of 2018 there is no provision whatsoever for ministerial

involvement in breaking a tie.Instead,shesaysthelaw explicitly lays out a multistep process that the REO and Clerk were bound to follow:“(6)(a)Ifthereisno electionundersubsection(5) fortheofficeofChairmanon account of equality of votes of the councillors present and voting, the Clerk shall immediately declare the councillors receiving the greatest number of equal votes as candidates for a

Heroes Highway to get multi-lane makeover …as Govt. gears up to pour $5B into expansion

The government is gearing up to pour another $5 billion into expanding the Heroes Highway, adding new lanes from Haags Bosch to Massy along the East Bank Demeraracorridor

According to bids submitted to the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board

(NPTAB), the project, which will be executed through the Central

Housing and Planning Authority(CH&PA)carries an estimated cost of $5,012,856,161 and will be dividedintofivelots Engineer's estimates show the breakdown as follows: Lot 1: $661M; Lot 2: $651M; Lot 3 $822M;

Lot 4: $1 38B; and Lot 5 $1 49B A total of six contractors have already submit

d

ds The ministry described the expansion as a “critical part” of the government's aggressivedrivetoimprove connectivity and reduce the traffic chaos plaguing the EastBankcorridor

The Heroes Highway,

which links Mandela Avenue to Eccles and eventually the new DemeraraRivercrossing,is fast becoming one of the country's most expensive infrastructure arteries with this new multi-billiondollar investment adding to the growing price tag of Guyana's concrete transformation

Below are the companies and their bids:

CentralHousingandPlanningAuthority(CH&PA)

ConstructionofAdditionalLanesonHeroes Highway(HaagsBoschRoadtoMassy).

MinistryofEducation

NewPlumbingNetworkSystemfor CompoundatPresidentsCollege.

secondroundofvoting.

(b) At the second round of voting, the Clerk shall proceed to take the votes of the councillors present for the candidates and declare the councillor securing the greatest number of votes to beelectedasChairman.(c)If there is no election on account of equality of votes of the councillors present andvotingduringthesecond round of voting, the Clerk shall immediately declare thecouncillorsreceivingthe greatest number of equal votes as candidates for a thirdroundofvoting.

(d)At the third round of voting, the Clerk shall proceed to take the votes of the councillors present for the candidates and shall declare the councillor securingthegreatestnumber of votes to be elected as Chairman.

(e)Ifthereisnoelection on account of equality of votesduringthethirdround, the Clerk shall record the disposition of each councillor present and voting.

WIN, candidate for chairman, Mark Goring

REO of Region 10 RDC, Dwight John

greatest weighted seat value inthechamber Accordingto thelaw,oncethosevotesare tallied as the law mandates the candidate “securing the greatest number” must be immediately declared elected.

Bidder AmountTendered IvorAllen

Bidder

Z&HInvestmentInc

Lot1$650,499,465

Lot2$644,148,330

Lot3$815,118,465

Lot4$1,268,162,175

Lot5$1,220,982,000 GuyamericaConstructionInc

Lot1$642,884,698

Lot2$639,695,805

Lot3$833,809,148

Lot4$1,415,928,150

Lot5 -

S JagmohanConstruction& GeneralSupplies

ColinTalbotContracting Services

BKInternationalInc

AIKAGeneralConstruction& HardwareSuppliesInc

Engineer’sEstimate

Lot1$660,172,170

Lot2$651,348,915

Lot3$821,026,605

Lot4$1,049,092,695

Lot5$1,170,452,850

Lot1$649,396,734

Lot2$646,153,389

Lot3$807,735,285

Lot4$1,329,354,621

Lot5$1,4 64,009,750

Lot1$660,779,347

Lot2$650,745,705

Lot3$821,102,154

Lot4$1,026,819,648

Lot5$1,230,000,815

Lot1$732,696,195

Lot2$675,897,075

Lot3$801,327,744

Lot4$ 1,376,363,100

Lot5$1,548,533,700

Lot1$661,402,578

Lot2$651,567,473

Lot3$822,870,440

Lot4$1,386,798,903

Lot5$1,490,216,767

AEAEnterprise

APlusConsulting&GeneralServicesInc

GeneralConstructionCompany -

Rishma&SistersEnterprise

NKEnterpriseInc

MUSEHoldingsInc

Engineer’sEstimate

Bidder

AmountTendered

$96,828,480

$95,749,710

$94,661,206

$85,098,405

$125,581,732

$94,549,247

$96,057,150

ConstructionofInformationTechnology

LabWoodleyParkPrimary

IconConstruction&MaintenanceService

RadonConstruction

PhoenixEngineering

Vick'sServices&Supply

4AEngineeringEnterprise

AEAEnterprise

RandolphTaylorConstruction

S&SEngineering

Yhadram&SonsConstructionEstablishment

GeraldConstructionCompany -

8BallGeneralContractor

D.Chowkai&SonsGeneralConstruction

DynamicInnovationsCivilEngineering

HolisticContracting&ProcurementInc.

DelonJ.BagotConstruction&Drainage Development

NKEnterpriseInc.

Engineer’sEstimate

AmountTendered

$18,639,810

$18,801,720

$19,453,613

$16,936,080

$19,415,340

$17,649,450

$17,052,000

$15,095,430

$17,552,955

$19,429,589

$19,748,715

$23,183,370

$21,087,465

$17,059,455

$19,821,888

$19,703,415

BriefReviewofDesigns,ConstructionCost&Supervision ServicesforaDesign,Build&FurnishingofDiamond No.2PrimarySchoolusingPre-FabricatedMaterials.

Bidder AmountTendered

CaribbeanEngineering&Management

ConsultantsInc

KalitechInc

InnovativeEngineering&Consultancy Services

CB&AssociatesInc

SizweJacksonConsultancyService

$22,230,000

$31,800,000

$14,525,000

$64,555,000

$80,200,000

(f) Having recorded that disposition, the Clerk shall then compute the numeric seat value apportioned to each councillor present and voting who was elected under the proportional representation (PR) system. Those values are then appliedtothecandidatesfor whom they voted, and the candidate securing the greatest number shall immediately be declared dulyelectedasChairman.

(g) Each councillor elected from a PR list is deemed to have an equal numeric seat value corresponding to the total numberofvotesreceivedby that list divided by the total number of seats allocated to thatlist.

Walton-Desir explained thatinsimpleterms,theAct requires that the Clerk must assign weight to each councillor's vote based on how many votes their party received in the regional elections. That process if lawfullyappliedwouldhave made Goring the clear winner, since WIN received 10,458 votes, almost twice the amount secured by APNU(5,334)andfarabove thePPP(4,260).

WIN's numerical strengthsealsit

Under paragraph (f), when each councillor's seat valueiscomputedaccording to the votes earned by their party list,WIN's councillors collectively carry the

Another lawyer told this newspaper that if the computations were done the tiewouldhavebeenbroken. There is also another provision for the “casting of lots”, but this only applies after this computation fails to produce a winner. Under thisprovisionthelawstates: “Where by reason of equality of votes, following the exhaustion of the procedures outlined in paragraphs (a) to (g), no person is elected Chairman, the Clerk, acting in the presence of a designated Magistrate, the councillors present and members of the public, shall by lot choose one of the candidates from the third (final) round of voting and shall declare the candidate chosen to be duly electedasChairman.”

“It is therefore legally impossible, under Cap 28:09, for the REO to claim that the matter must now be sent to the Minister for decision,” the lawyer who askednotbenamedsaid.

Goring'sprotestignored Meanwhile, during Friday's proceedings, Goring did raise the point that the law requires a second round of voting and, but this was ignored by the REO who went ahead and adjourn the meeting- an act that WIN has since called a flagrantbreachofprocedure. WINonSundayissueda48hour ultimatum demanding that the Ministry of Local GovernmentordertheREO (Continuedonpage15)

Gritty Nandu 103*, Perez 51* inspire Demerara to crushing 9-wicket win

A scintillating century from Demerara captain Matthew Nandu, a halfcentury from Raymond Perezandsomeclinicalseam bowling,setupadevastating 9-wicket loss for the GCB Select XI yesterday at the Enmore Community Centre Ground.

Chasing, by their standards a low score of 189 for victory, Nandu followed up his half-century in the

- Alimohamed/Van Lange share 7 wickets

first match, with a mature 103notoutoff142balls.

The opener opted for a more classic approach to scoring,relyingonhisability to work the bowlers without playing at an aggressive pace, only finding the boundary on 6 occasions with two of his shots going forthemaximumamount.

Number 3 batsman, Perez who missed out on a possible fifty last game, but made amends by supporting his captain during their u n b r o k e n 1 2 9 - r u n partnership.

The Eagles batsman was also watchful during his innings of 51 off 75, smashing a solitary six as he

too showed great fitness and technique by scoring mostly runningbetweenwickets.

T h e I r o n - m e n performances of the pair came to fruition after opener Ushardeva Balgobin fell for a good-looking 27 (3x4), leaving the Demerara on 591.

Man-of-the-match

Wednesday October 15, 2025

ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19)

Expect to hear some great news today Some distant relatives may call to say they're coming for a visit. Or you could find out about a trip that you and your family will takeinthenearfuture.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

You have a keen mind and you're thirsty for knowledge. Arecentaccomplishmentmay make you look for the next challenge.

GEMINI(May21–June20)

You may be feeling nostalgic for old friends and faraway family Even if you haven't spokentotheminawhile,pick upthephoneandcallthemup. All signs indicate that anyone you talk to today will be very gladtohearfromyou.

CANCER(June21–July22)

With the current aspects, you can expect positive job changes. You've worked hard these past few months and contributed important ideas. Don't be surprised if you get rewarded with recognition, raise,orpromotion.

LEO(July23–Aug.22)

Take care that you don't exhaust yourself You could be doingtoomuchforothersright now Your kind heart and generousnatureoftenhaveyou saying yes to requests when youshouldberefusing

VIRGO(Aug 23–Sept 22)

Today you hit the ground running You're happy, energetic, and optimistic. You feel love for all mankind. Don't be surprised if this brings new people into your life. You can't blame them for wantingtobearoundyou.

LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)

You're a traditionalist at heart and happy to do the same thing year in and year out. Your partner could be tiring of the old routine. Today your friend may want to do things differently

SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov 21)

The love you feel for everyone today draws new people into your orbit. You're in love with all, even people you couldn't stand yesterday You can expect extraordinary success today

SAGIT(Nov 22–Dec.21)

You have a gentle way of expressing yourself to your loved one. It isn't your style to make grand gestures or buy extravagant gifts.You prefer to spend quality time together, talkingandcuddling.

CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)

You may be expecting some visitors. Happy as you are about this, you may be feeling overwhelmed by what remains to be done. Pace yourself. Thesefriendsarecomingtosee you, not check under the beds fordustbunnies.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)

Your energy level is at an alltime high, so you may work harderthanusual.Youcouldbe inspired to work around the house, cleaning, repairing, and straighteningup.

PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)

A shift in responsibilities may beneededathome.Youoryour partner may need more help withhouseholdtasksorwantto abdicate responsibility for all the daily errands. Everyday chores can stress even the happiestoffamilies.

Nandu, alongside Perez steadiedtheshipwithoutany issues as both players droppedanchorastheypaced the chase well enough to see the game home in the 44th over, with the skipper squeezinghislastfourbehind point to win the game while bringinguphismaidenton.

Only Jayden Dowlin (126), managed to break the shackles for the GCB XI as five other bowlers finished wicket-less, snapping the opening fifty stand as he removed Balgobin who was out caught by Afraz Ali Budhoo.

Earlier, the GCB Select XI had a much better batting innings as compared to game, posting 185 all out as they lasted the entire 50 overs, led by skipper Romeo

Project“Cricket Gearforyoung...

From page 24 cash, thirteen colored cricket uniforms, one set of stumps, two trophies, thirty six pairs of cricket shoes, thirty nine pairs of batting pads, forty eight cricket bats, forty seven pairs of batting gloves, twenty nine thigh pads, three pairs of wicket keeping pads, six arm guards, two chest pads, two boxes, fourteen gear bags, thirteen bat rubbers, seven helmets, one fiber glass bat, one pair of floppy hat, sixteen boxes and four of white cricket balls, thirteen boxes of red cricket balls, one bat cone, one batting inners and twenty eight footballs. In addition to the above, gear with value of over $600,000 was donated by Sheik Mohamed, former N a t i o n a l w i c k e t keeper/batsman All cash collected is being used to purchase cricket gear requestedandnotavailableat thetime.

D i s t r i b u t i o n w i l l continue. Anyone interested tocontributecancontactAnil Beharry on 623 6875 or Kishan Das on 1 718 664 0896.

The opener steadied the top order with his workmanlike fifty, hitting just 4 fours and a six as he and Brandon Jaikarran (26) repaired the innings after losing Orin Gibsonforaduck.

Jaikarran added 77 along with his skipper, before the middle-order chipped in

with some decent scores despite no other player carrying on besides their skipper

Akshaya Persaud (15), Budhoo (23), in-form Kwesi Mickle (21) and Joshua Jones who hit a pair of sixes in his 19 off 14, helped propel the Select XI to almost200runs.

Demerara had 16 brilliant overs of seam bowling, which produced 7 wickets for under 100 runs combined thanks to the duo of Windies U19 all-rounder JohnathanVanLange(3-36) and Harpy Eagles pacer; Ronaldo Alimohamed (453).

Off-spinner Richie Looknauth was miserly, picking up 1-10 from his quota of 10 overs, with support from former West Indies player, Chandrapaul Hemraj picked up 2-27 as he too bowled a brilliant 10overspell. (Clifton Ross)

Project “Cricket Gear for young and promising cricketers in Guyana” supports female cricket thru Precision Sports

PrecisionSportsisanOrganisation that is actively involved in the promotion of female cricket in Guyana. Nidia Andrews, founder of this initiative, reached out to this project and in response, one box of cricket balls was donated. The balls were used in a recently concluded tournamentwhichinvolvedtopfemale

cricketers from the three counties of Guyana. This noble initiative, done jointly by Anil Beharry and Kishan Das of the USAis pleased to be part of the development of female cricket. At a simple ceremony, Andrews was thankfulfortheballs.

Over the years, many cricketers have benefitted from this project,

including ace pacer Shamar Joseph, KevlonAnderson, who recently made hisdebutforWestIndies.

This project will continue to improve the lives of youths in every community

Total cricket related items received/purchasedsofar:$730,000in Continued on page 19

BMC continues as 3rd & 4th rounds played off last weekend

Once again, there was a solitary century recorded in 3rd round match by V Samaroo of Jai Hind Jaguars and ten half centuries (2 by R o y s t o n C r a n d o n ) highlightedthislast2rounds over the weekend as play in the Peter Lewis Contracting & Asphalting Services, Diamond Fire & General

Insurance, Readymix Concrete and Permaul Trading & Distribution Big Man Cricket (BMC) tournamentcontinued.

Round 3-Saturday, October 11th

Match # 13- Ex Berbice Police vs Albion Masters Port Mourant groundAlbion Masters won the toss and opted to take first strike rattling up 209 for 2 in 20 overs Royston Crandon opening the batting with H. Bridgelall scored a well composed 58 (5 X 4 & 2 @ 6),Bridgelallscored42(7@ 4s). Sewnarine Chattergoon then slammed an undefeated 56 (5 @ 4s & 2 @ 6s) and K. Mahadeo 36*(4 @ 4s). The former lawmen could only muster 156 all out in their turn at the crease K Sanichar and T McKenzie contributed 39 & 27 respectively C. France was thepickofthebowlerswith3 for 21. Collis Butts, Michael Chinsammy & T Jagdeo each grabbed 2 wickets apiece. Albion Masters won by53runs.

Match # 14 - Jai Hind Jaguars vs Enterprise Star Sports@JaiHindground.Jai

V. Samaroo was the lone centurion.

Hindbattedfirstandposteda challenging207for6intheir 20overs.V Samaroostroked a sparkling 131 ably supported by V Seonarine 39. Enterprise fell short by a solitary run in a nail-biting affair R.Mangalwasnotout on 62, with Zaheer Mohamed scoring 62 and M. Karamchand scored 51. Jai HindJaguarswonby1runs.

Match # 15 - Blairmont Hunters vs Legend Rangers @ Cotton Tree ground Blairmont Hunters took first strike and scored a challenging 174 for 4 off their 20 overs Balram Somwaru top scored with 52*, Dillon Persaud 44* and skipper Shabeer Baksh chippingin

FourSchoolsBook Quarterfinalspots...

From page 27

thrilling2–1victoryoverMackenzieHigh,followedbya1–1 drawagainstDoraSecondary,sealingtheirqualificationatthe topoftheirgroup.

The upcoming fixtures in Essequibo and Providence promise to deliver another weekend of exciting, youth-driven football, as schools give their all for a chance to join the four already-qualifiedteams.

The GFF–Blue Water Shipping U15 Girls National Secondary School Championship, hosted by the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) in collaboration with Blue Water Shipping,continuestoserveasavitalplatformforidentifying and developing emerging female football talent across Guyana.

GFF President Wayne Forde reaffirmed the Federation’s commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for young femaleathletesthroughthetournament.

“As we head into the final matches of the Round of Sixteen,weareseeingthedepthofpotentialthatexistsingirls’ football across the country. This competition continues to highlight the importance of investing in youth and supporting genderequalityinsport,”Fordesaid.

Fans and supporters are encouraged to follow the upcoming matches as the tournament narrows down to the quarterfinals, where the nation’s most promising young footballerswillcontinuetheirquestforthenationaltitle.

with26.J.Reidtook2for 28. Legend Rangers could only muster 145 for 9 off its 20 overs D. Cullifar scored 58* & G. Moore 21. R. Hemraj was the pick of the bowlers with 3 for 18 Blairmant Hunters won by 29runs.

Match # 16 - North Soesdyke Masters vs VNS CC@Enmoreground.VNC CCbattedfirstandmade105 for9inarainaffectedmatch. North Soesdyke responded with 106 for 3 in 18.1 overs. North Soesdyke Masters wonby9wickets.

Match # 17- Essequibo Masters vs Vintage Strikers. Vintage Strikers won by a walkover

Match # 18- Black Hawks vs West Bank Warriors @ Police ground. West Bank took first strike, posting 162 for 7 off their 20 overs.K.Singhwith41*and

Ferron Kadir30 werethetop scorers Black Hawks struggled to 126 for 8 with VishalArjune making a well composed half-century 55 and A. Singh 37. West Bank Warriorswonby36runs. Round 4-Sunday, October 12th

Match # 19-Jai Hind JaguarsvsExBerbicePolice @JaiHindground.

Jai Hind Jaguars took first Strike and made 121 for 9 off its 20 overs The lawmen could only muster 115 for 8 in a very close encounter Jai Hind Jaguars wonby6runs.

Match # 20-Enterprise Star Sports vs GT Royals @ Enmore ground. GT Royals batted first and scored a measly 65 for 4 in 20 overs. D. Persaud took 2 for 7. Enterprise knocked off the runs for no loss (67/0) in 6 overs I Khan 32*, M

Karamchand 27*. Enterprise wonby10wickets.

Match # 21-Enterprise Star Sports vs Albion Masters @ Enmore ground. Albion batted first and scored a challenging 152 for 5 in 20 overs Royston Crandon hit another half century opening the batting 59*,CollisButtsmade34.L. Dindyal took 2 for 24 Enterprise fell short with their reply at 136 for 6 when their overs

ran out. P Dindyal had a great allround match finishing on 52, D. Persaud made 30*. Albion Masters wonby16runs.

Match # 22- Essequibo Masters vs North Soesdyke Masters@Relianceground. North Soesdyke Masters wonbyawalkover

Match # 23- Vintage Strikers vs Black Hawks @ BelleVueground. Vintage Strikers won by awalkover

GBI pledges over $1.1M as kickoff nears for Petra’s 6thAnnual U18 Football League

Asthecountdownbegins for the kickoff of the Sixth Annual Secondary Schools Under-18 Football League 2025, the tournament has received a major boost with GuyanaBeverageInc.(GBI) reaffirming its commitment to youth development throughsport.

With the league set to kickoffthisSunday,October 19, at the Ministry of Education Sports Complex Ground, GBI has stepped forward with a significant sponsorship investment valued at over $1.1 million.

battling not only for silverware but also for nationalrecognition.

The league, organised by the Petra Organisation, will feature eight secondary school teams, including five

This timely financial support, provided through GBI’s flagship brand Busta, underscores the growing prestige of the tournament a n d t h e c o m p a n y ’s commitment to grassroots footballdevelopment.

from Georgetown and the otherthreefromregions2,4, and 7, competing over a seven-week period. The championship culminates on November 30, with teams

The tournament, proudly sponsored by Republic Bank Limited (RBL), has grown into one of the most important fixtures on Guyana’s School football calendar, offering a critical platform for the nation’s most promising Under-18 t a l e n t B e y o n d t h e competition, the league emphasizes values such as teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship, shaping well-rounded individuals bothonandoffthefield.

GBI’s sponsorship package includes more than just cash. It also covers branded uniforms for players, coaches/support s t a f f , a l o n g w i t h refreshments throughout the tournament, ensuring teams are fully equipped and supported to perform at their best.

S p e a k i n g a t t h e

sponsorship handover, Petra Co-Director Troy Mendonca expressed his gratitude, stating: “I would like to extend my sincerest appreciation to Guyana Beverage Inc. for coming on board to support our sixth Annual RBL U-18 Football League. This is not just a partnership between two entities; it is a substantial investment into one of our m o s t i m p o r t a n t developmentalprogramme.” Mendonca emphasized the importance of leaguebased structures in youth football development, noting: “The RBL League has proven to be a crucial stepping stone for school teams.”

Hehighlighted,“Justlast D e c e m b e r, C h a s e ’s Academic Foundation (participants in this very league) made history by w i n n i n g t h e K F C International Goodwill Series for the first time. That

tournament’simpact.”

Delivering remarks on behalf of GBI, General Manager Samuel Arjoon reinforced the company’s vision: “Football is not just a game; it’s a pathway to b u i l d i n g c h a r a c t e r, confidence, and community among our youth Our continued partnership with Petra reflects our belief in empowering young people and promoting positive lifestyles through sport. We are proud to support initiativeslikethisthatfoster youthdevelopment.”

W

BeverageInc.joinsRepublic Ban

L

mited as a cornerstone sponsor of the league, helping to realize the dreams of young footballers across the country and elevate the standard of school-level football in Guyana.

Indiacomplete2-0sweep inGill’sfirstserieswin

N. Jagadeesan and Nitish Kumar Reddy were handed the series trophy by Shubman Gill. (BCCI)

ESPNcricinfo - It took India a little over an hour on the final day and a further loss of twowicketstoknockoffthe121-runtargetto seal the 2-0 series win against West Indies. The win took them to 61.9% points on the WorldTestChampionshippointstable,stillat No.3.

KL Rahul anchored the chase, ending up unbeaten on 58, taking his series tally to 192, only behindYashasvi Jaiswal’s 219. Kuldeep Yadav was the leading wicket-taker with 12 strikes. This was also the first series win for captain Shubman Gill after drawing 2-2 in England.

India began the day needing 58 runs to win after they had declared their first innings in only 4.5 sessions and then enforced the follow-on.They ended up bowling 200 overs onthetrotandwereset121toget.

IndialostBSaiSudharsanandGillonthe final morning. Sudharsan, whose No. 3 position is not yet sealed, might leave the

series with some doubt still. He scored 87 in the first innings, but got out playing a loose drive in the second, resulting in a stunning slipcatchbyShaiHope.

Gill looked in a hurry to end things, hit a six and a four in a Roston Chase over, and thenendedupskyingone.

Rahulwasmoresolid,andpunctuatedhis effort with two sixes, one a straight loft against Khary Pierre and the other a slogsweepoffJomelWarrican,whogothimoutin thefirstinnings.

ThiswasIndia’stenthstraightwinagainst West Indies. This was also India’s 122th Test win,goingpastSouthAfricatoNo.3.

Scores: India 518 for 5 dec (Jaiswal 175, Gill 129, Sai Sudharsan 87, Warrican 3-98) and 124 for 3 (Rahul 58*, Chase 2-36) beat West Indies 248 (Kuldeep 5-82) and 390 (Campbell 115, Hope, 103, Greaves 50*, Bumrah 3-44, Kuldeep 3-104) by seven wickets.

GUYANAPREVAILSINSURINAME:

Persaud’s heroics secure invitational glory

Guyana’s golfing warriors stood tall on foreign soil this past weekend as Avinash Persaud led a triumphant campaign at the DSB Suriname Invitational 2025, capturing the overall title after two grueling days of competition in Paramaribo. His stellar victory was matched by a superb performance from Patanjilee Persaud, who claimed first place in the B Flight, underscoring Guyana’s dominance acrossdivisions.

Under the blazing tropical sun and on a course that tested every facet of skill and endurance, Avinash Persaud delivered a masterful performance, winning the A Flight with a best Gross of 144, after posting rounds of 78 and 66 on Days 1 and 2 respectively. His efforts earned him a total of 70 Gross points, reaffirming his place among the Caribbean’s elite golfers. His win not only earned him the crown but also set the tone for the upcoming Guyana Open laterthismonth.

Reflecting on his performance, Persaud shared, “Winning this tournamentisajoytomebecauseit wasaStablefordevent,andit’shard to win off a single-digit handicap. But I am very happy for the win. Leading up to the Guyana Open, since I’m in good form, it should not be a problem playing that tournament.”

His calm confidence mirrored the determination seen throughout Team Guyana’s contingent. In the B Flight, Patanjilee Persaud outplayedhisopponentswithabest Net of 128, after scoring 65 and 63 over the two days and amassing 82 totalnetpoints.

Chet Bowling followed closely in second with a total net of 133, posting 66 and 67 on Days 1 and 2 for 77 total net points, adding to

Guyana’smedaltally

Patanjilee Persaud (top) won the B Class followed by Chet Bowling in 2nd

Eureka Giddings (top) took second place in the F Class, while Shanella London finished 3rd in the E Class, winning Best Gross for females and Longest Drive titles on both days.

Eureka Giddings turned in a consistent showing, finishing second in the F Flight with a total net of 135, scoring 65 and 70 over the two days and earning 75 total netpoints.

Meanwhile, Shanella London stood out in the women’s category, finishingthirdintheEFlightwitha totalnetof151(netscoresof77and 74)and55totalnetpoints.Shealso captured Best Gross for females with a Gross score of 169 and 43

Part of the intense action that unfolded during the tournament. (GFF)

Gross points, and impressively claimedtheLongestDrivetitlesfor both Day 1 and Day 2, a testament to her growing reputation as one of Guyana’stopfemalegolfers.

In the S Flight, Carlos Adams battledhiswaytothirdplacewitha Net of 143, after carding 77 and 66 over the two days to finish with 68 totalnetpoints.

Even those who did not make the podium proudly represented Guyana,showcasingdisciplineand heart on the course. The team

included Vishal Dhani, Lakeram Ramsundar, Rakesh Harry, Mohanlall Dindanauth, David Harry, Mike Mangal, Parmanand Persaud, Satrohan Tiwari, Orson Ferguson, Brian Hackett, Paton George, Troy Cadogan, Maxim Mangra,andKeshanBacchus,each contributing to Guyana’s impressivepresenceinSuriname.

TheDSBSurinameInvitational once again proved to be a battleground of precision and perseverance, but the Guyanese

golfers rose above the challenge withpoiseandunity

Their triumph was not just a victory on the greens, it was a statement of national pride and growingregionalstrength.

As the team returned home, all eyes are now on the Guyana Open, where momentum and confidence areontheirside.

From Suriname’s fairways to the Caribbean stage, Guyana’s golfers have proven they don’t just compete;theyconquer

GFF–Blue Water Shipping U15 Girls National Secondary School Championship

Four Schools Book Quarterfinal spots

as Final Round of Sixteen Matches set for Essequibo and Providence

The stage is set for the final group matches of the Round of Sixteen in the GFF–Blue Water Shipping U15 Girls National Secondary School Championship, which will be played on Saturday, October18,inEssequibo,andSunday,October19, at the GFF National Training Centre in Providence.

These decisive fixtures will determine the four remaining teams to complete the quarterfinal lineup,asschoolsfromacrosstheregionsbattlefor

a coveted place among the championship’s top eight.

So far, President’s College, Bush Lot Secondary, Anai Secondary, and Christiansburg Wismar Secondary have all secured their places in thequarterfinalsfollowingstrongperformancesin thepreliminaryrounds.

The most recent matches in Linden saw ChristiansburgWismarSecondaryadvanceaftera Continued on page 25

GBI pledges over $1.1M as kickoff nears for Petra’s 6th Annual U18 Football League

Petra’s Co-Director Troy Mendonca (second from right) receiving sponsorship cheque from GBI GM Samuel Arjoon in the presence of GBI executive Miss

and Troy Peters.

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