Govt. cancels US$3M from US$20M World Bank loan intended to strengthen oil governance -WorldBankReport
Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh
ByDavinaBagot
The Government of Guyana has cancelled more than U.S.$3 million from a U.S.$20millionWorldBank loan aimed at strengthening oversight of the oil and gas sector, abandoning several keyreformsintheprocess.
According to a World Bank Project Paper dated December24,2025,thecuts form part of a third restructuring of the Guyana
Petroleum Resources
G o v e r n a n c e a n d
Management Project (GPRGMP), with multiple core deliverables left incomplete at the project’s close.
The axed reforms include: the preparation of a sector communications strategy; a second phase technicalassistanceprogram for the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) and the finalisation of the Strategic Environmental and Social Assessment (SESA) while an entire component of the loan aimed at enhancing fiscal management has been dropped at the request of government.
The project paper stated that Guyana only achieved oneofthreeobjectivesunder the programme for the countrytopublishExtractive Industries Transparency Initiative(EITI)reports.The World Bank also noted that four out of five legal and regulatoryactsforthesector have been prepared under the project, submitted to the National Assembly and approved while a number of additional regulatory drafts wereproduced.
Additionally, the financial institution said the project has provided crucial support to the MNR, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Guyana EITI Secretariat This included capacity buildingandtheprovisionof technical tools, such as EPA’s satellite-based
monitoring system for offshore oil and gas activities.
The World Bank explained, “Despite these successes, some activities, suchasthefinalisationofthe Strategic Environmental and Social Assessment (SESA) (the third Project Development Objective (PDO)indicator),preparation of a sector communications strategy and a second phase technical assistance program for the MNR could not be completed by the project’s closingdate”
Further, the bank added, “A fourth PDO indicator, together with two intermediate indicators attached to partially cancelled Component C –Enhancement of Fiscal Management, were dropped attheclient’srequestduring the project’s second restructuringinApril2025.”
SESA was intended to includeananalysisofsocioeconomic aspects of typical oil and gas operations, including areas for strengtheningofinvoluntary resettlement policies, guidelines and practice standards in Guyana, which can complement the local policies associated with resettlement.
Moreover, the strategic environmental and social implications and impacts of the proposed oil and gas
legal and regulatory framework were to be examinedandassessedinthe StrategicEnvironmentaland SocialAssessment(SESA). Third restructuring of loan
The World Bank said it received a letter from the Ministry of Finance on December 15, 2025 and datedDecember11,2025for the cancellation of U.S.$3,177,153. GoG and the institution agreed to a closure of the loan on December 31, 2025. There was also an agreement that the cancelled funds will be
...key reforms abandoned Communications strategy scrapped Fiscal management component axed Critical oil studies left unfinished Technical support for Natural Resources Ministry incomplete
returnedtoGuyana’sgeneral International Development
Association (IDA) allocation,wheretheycanbe reprogrammed to support other national priorities aligned to the Country PartnershipFramework.
About the World Bank U.S.$20Mloan
The Guyana Petroleum Resources Governance and Management Project (GPRGMP) was approved bytheWorldBankonMarch 29, 2019 under the David Granger administration. In April 2022, Kaieteur News reported that the PPP/C Government did not request any disbursements from the U.S.$20M loan, three years after it was declared effective.
Theprojectwasaimedat supporting the enhancement of legal and institutional
frameworks and the strengtheningofthecapacity ofkeyinstitutionstomanage the oil and gas sector in Guyana. It featured four components; namely: (A) Enhancement of Legal Framework and Stakeholder Engagement; (B) Capacity BuildingofKeyInstitutions; (C) Enhancement of Fiscal Management; and (D) Project Management & ProjectPreparationFacility
The key beneficiaries of the project were the Department of Energy (DE, replaced by the Ministry of NaturalResourcesunderthe newadministrationin2020), the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), the Ministry of Finance (MOF), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Attorney General’s
Chambers(AGC).
Guyanabeganproducing oil in December 2019 following the country’s first discovery in 2015 by ExxonMobil.
The World Bank stated that the size of the discoveries presented a historic opportunity for Guyana to leverage the revenues generated from oil production into sustainable development and inclusive growth.“Awell-managedoil andgassectorcanbringhuge positive and sustainable impacts t
including socio-economic
externalities Guyana has never been an oil and gas producer, and as such lacks the policy, legal and regulatory frameworks and institutionalcapacityneeded
tomaximisethebenefitsand minimise downside risks associated with the sector,” thebankexplained.
Moreover, the financial institutionwarnedthatifthe sector was poorly managed, the development of oil and gas resources can be economically and socially costly for a country In approving financing for the programme, the bank noted that there was a large capacity gap at the political
management and oversight of Guyana’s petroleum sector “The buildup of institutional capacity is crucial to improve the Government of Guyana’s bargaining power vis-à-vis investors in situations of negotiations, oversight, and enforcement,”thebanksaid.
Kaieteur News
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EDITORIAL
Numbers that tell of Guyanese horrors
The PPPC Government has a defense for any development that reduces it to an embarrassment. Data used to make a point is aged,orthosetakingthegovernmenttotaskareanti-PPP,so they are biased contributors, who always have an axe to grind. We do not know what government leaders and spokespeople will do now, but we know what the numbers tellusaboutGuyanesecircumstances,theforbiddingnature ofthem.
Two responsible local institutions, the University of Guyana with a study, and the Bank of Guyana through its recentAnnual Report, informed the world what it is like to live in Guyana. Rising prices can be compared to a raging virus that strikes the vulnerable and weakens them further The numbers, from two of the higher national institutions, report the horrors of living in this oil rich country, where current daily production of oil is over 900,000 barrels. Something has to be grievously wrong when a nation that is celebrated for being a young and vibrant oil producer at the edge of producing a million barrels of oil daily cannot take careofitscitizens. Notevenamillioncitizens,andthereare those who sometimes, are forced to go more than a day withoutameal,notevenasnacktoeat. Arichoilproducing country that the government likes to boast about, or an impoverished one, where the voices of the hungry are ignored, or overwhelmed by a barrage of feel-good propaganda.
RealityinthevillagesandstreetsindicatehowGuyanese areforcedtotightentheirbeltsandcutcornerstomanagein an environment of spiraling prices. The UG study showed that, the Central Bank annual report presented it, then an ExxonMobil consultant confirmed how difficult life is for Guyanese.
The ExxonMobil consultant,Acorn International, is no stranger to Guyana, and its own Environmental Impact Assessmentwasbrutallyfrankinpresentingtheresultsofits workontheeighthoilproject,Longtail. Inadditiontothose who have no choice but to go with smaller, or fewer, meals, there are those citizens who, in this oil rich country, are buying cheaper, less nutritional meals in efforts to stretch theirdollars.
Another oil project adds more pressure on food prices already skyrocketing. More workers mean more food have to be supplied to the oil boats operating offshore, plus those working on land in supporting capacities. Imported food items are contributors to the foreign exchange burden that Guyanese businesses and citizens struggle to get their arms around.
This is part of whatAcorn International warns could be among the consequences of the Longtail oil project, the eighth, for strapped and anxious citizens. More oil exploration, new oil projects, and greater levels of oil productionallraceaheadatbreakneckspeed. Guyaneseon the lower end of the economic ladder, however, are falling behind and losing out. From straight out ofAcorn's review, Guyanese voices seeped through: “They don't feel like oil moneyishelpingthemdirectly.”
That is an indictment of the PPPC Government, cuts to pieces the claims of its leaders that all Guyanese are benefiting, that policies designed to steer oil money to the peopleismakingadifference.
How could that be so, when approximately a third of Guyanese sampled admitted that life is such a challenge for them that they are eating less and less nutritionally? Moreover, when 1 in 20 citizens stated that sometimes they have to go without a meal for a day, or more, are they benefitingfromtheiroilbonanza? Forsure,itisabonanza, but only less than one percent in Guyana's population have trulyprosperedfromit.
We have consistently pounded the drum about government'smisplacedprioritiesthathaveinflictedsevere
Arbitrary Policy Changes, Selective Enforcement, and Labour Rights Concerns at GECOM
DearEditor, I write to express grave concern over what can only be described as the increasingly arbitrary, selective, and legally questionable administrative actions being undertaken within the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), particularly by the Chief ElectionOfficer(CEO).
Foremost among these concerns is the recent directive reducing sick leave from28daysto14days.This is not simply a policy
adjustment—itisaunilateral alteration of a longestablished condition of employment that has existed since 2005 and forms part of the legitimate expectations ofstaff.
More critically, these terms were embedded in employment relationships and contracts already executed by the very office nowseekingtoamendthem.
Inemploymentlaw,itisa well-established principle that an employer cannot u n i l a t e r a l l y v a r y
Strengthening our society
DearEditor,
President Burnham for all his failures had one commitment that should be respected He was never publicly accused of supporting the use of illicit drugsandhadbeenknownas someone who opposed the use of the illicit drug trade to fill the financial gap that crippled the economy of Guyana during the 1980s. The same cannot be said for many other Presidents Maduro is an example of this point.
Another characteristic that should also be noted is that of his commitment to education and discipline within our school system. With the current increase in the use of synthetic drugs in our nation's schools, gangs andterritorialdisputesareon therise.
The culture of Guyana is one which is known to be strictandcaring.Wemustnot upset this balance when dealing with the current serious problems in our school system Singapore has a similar culture and has foundaveryeffectivewayof dealing with drug related problems. The Misuse of Drugs Act passed by their parliament in 1973 has been effectively implemented and has gained Singapore the reputation for having Zero Tolerance for offences that involve controlled / illicit drugs. The use of caning, prison terms and the death penalty have served as effective strict deterrents to youngsters who are tempted
to enter into such criminal activity On the caring side, rehabilitation is mandatory for those suffering from addiction.
For Guyana to quickly and effectively recover from the unfolding crisis in our schools and prevent its reoccurrence we must embrace improving our laws against illicit drugs and effectively and consistently implementthemwithoutfear or favour This means that regardlessofwhoisinvolved an unbiased approach that doesn't succumb to intimidation and pressure must be used. The power of our institutions must remain with the people that they serve and not be allowed to be manipulated by those entrustedwithleadingthem.
If another more populous country can achieve success in the upliftment of their populationitshouldbeeasier for Guyana, which has a smaller and closely connected population, to accomplishthis.
The problems we face as a nation are not very complicated and the solutions are clear To be successful we must have the will to act and the commitment to do so unbiasedly If the person assigned to do it is not being fair and as a result is not acting in the best interest of our nation, then he or she must be replaced. The future of our country depends upon it!
Sincerely,
Jamil Changlee
pain on poor Guyanese. Annual budgets provide the best evidence of where leaders are, through what and who they favor Further, how record budgets squeeze those who desperately need help, but the PPPC Government ignored that, too. Leaders like President Ali and Vice President Jagdeo take offense at such representations, even spoke lightly about where Guyanese are. ExxonMobil's own study just revealed how Guyanese have it hard, and what is contributingtotheirpredicament.
fundamental terms of a contract to the detriment of e m p l o y e e s w i t h o u t consultation, agreement, or lawful basis. Such actions may amount to a breach of contract and, in some jurisdictions, constructive dismissal.
The abrupt reduction of sick leave without negotiation or transitional arrangements therefore raises serious legal and ethicalconcerns.
Equally troubling is the selective application of rules.
While the CEO has chosen to rigidly enforce restrictive interpretations of sick leave provisions drawn from the Public Service framework, there has been a conspicuous failure to apply other provisions within the same framework—such as Personal Business Leave, Compassionate Leave, and l e a v e r e l a t i n g t o hospitalization.International labour standards emphasize that leave policies must be comprehensive, clearly regulated, and consistently applied across all categories ofleave
Selective enforcement
undermines both fairness and institutional credibility. GECOM is not a traditional public service agency. Its constitutional status demandsahigherstandardof governance—one grounded not only in rules, but in fairness, proportionality, and consistency The selective importation of Public Service rules, applied only when convenient, reflects a troubling misuse of administrativediscretion.
At a broader level, these developments point to a pattern of administrative overreach.
The silence of the Commission in this context is equally concerning. As an institution chaired by a former judge, one would expect a vigilant adherence to principles of legality, fairness, and procedural propriety
The failure to intervene risks normalizing actions that erode both staff rights and institutional integrity Thisisnotmerelyaninternal staffing matter It is a question of governance Institutions tasked with safeguarding democracy (Continued on page 5)
The Bahai New Year
DearEditor, Last Saturday afternoon my wife and I attended the Celebration of Naw Ruz, the start of the Bahai New Year, whichalsocoincidedwiththe 70th anniversary of establishment of the Bahai Local Spiritual Assembly in Georgetown. A remarkable coincidence was that it fell in the mist of the Hindu celebration of “Navratri - the nine-day worship of the Goddess Durga”, in the mist of the Christians period of Lent, and at the end of the Muslims holy period of Ramadan.
The event was held in the open air, and went into the early evening, those present could not fail to observe the kindness of the Creator The place was kept cool by the northeast trade-winds.As the sunsettothewest,theauraof harmony saturated the area where,theladiesinparticular engaged in their interesting banter and recollections of bygone days. As the only maleatthattableIrecognised that it was futile to compete with my wife and the other delightful ladies, and held fasttothewisdomofsilence.
We all enjoyed the company, and the assurance that the occasion helped to strengthenourmoralmuscles and enhance the innate spirituality that exist in all mankind. I use this public opportunity to thank the Baha'i of Guyana and ask them to continue their noble work, to make our world a nicer,andsaferplaceforall.
Sincerely
The core values of the Baha'i Faith rest on three fundamental pillars: the oneness of God, the oneness of religion, the oneness of humanity, and founded on principles of unity, peace, and justice Values and principles urgently needed in Guyana and the wider world ofwhichweareapart.WhatI found interesting and uplifting was the number of c h i l d r e n w h o , w i t h confidence, addressed the assembled gathering, at the Headquarters in upper C h a r l o t t e S t r e e t , Georgetown A religious organisation that has numbers of small children is onethatisalive,buoyant,and withabrightfuture.Theysay that children from the cradle are the prospect for viability and sustainability, if they are brought up in the appropriate environment and with the appropriatebeliefs.
Elder Hamilton Green
Opposition elements in futile attempts to smear PPP/C
DearEditor,
Rabble Rousers are at work again and I join Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, in pointing out that the political opposition is misrepresenting the 'established and known' “… facts surrounding the Friendship land debacle, which is a dispute between a private landowner and persons claiming to be occupants of the land.” So, first things first, as this is indeed a 'private' matter, with a well-documented history
For starters, Rozel Di Leon Investment Limited is the bona fide, sole and rightful owner of the property, this by virtue of holding the Certificates of Title, consequential to “lawfully purchasing the said Property from Elaine Adam's, who previously ownedit.”
This transaction, the dates and participants thereof, can all be verified from available and already displayed court documents. This issue, by the way, goes back to 2009, and add the fact that “at the time of the sale,theCompanywasgiven vacant possession, and all persons occupying the land were given notice prior to a n d f o l l o w i n g t h e transaction.”
So, Rozel Di Leon Investment Limited, who now 'legally' owns the entire property, did nothing illegal nor unethical, when the supposed over 50 families were evicted, as this resulted from a court order, way after the occupants were given more than 18 months notice to move and they did not comply By way of information, I amreferringtotheparcelsof land at Friendship, East Bank Demerara, now being made a political 'hot spot' to target the totally uninvolved People's Progressive Party CivicGovernment.
Let me add that outside of all legalities, now being rightfully imposed, “… all persons occupying the land were given notice prior to a n d f o l l o w i n g t h e transaction.”
The issue then should havebeenmetwithcomplete acquiescence; in fact, occupants should not have been there by now They haveexhausted'overtime.'
Secondly, and this is quite bizarre, the New Friendship Farmers Cooperative Land Society, on behalf of the 'illegal' occupants, did file legal proceedings against the company, Elaine Adam's, andthecompany'sPrincipal, Leon Rutherford. Is this not laughable?
The occupants had then and now still have no stakes betweenthesellerandbuyer, and instead of 'scramming' during their extended mercies, acted and are still acting with insolence and impunity
Look at this please! “The Society sought to have the Company's titles declared void based on allegations of fraud.”
This nonsensical manoeuvre ended when Justice Peter Hugh dismissed the Society's application in its entirety, noting that the Court found no merit in the allegations of fraud and thus granted the Company's application for an Order for Vacant Possession ” Yet these 'squatters' are being obstreperous and have political mavericks rallying behindthem.
This exercise is one of sillyotiosity
Editor, I quote: “At that hearing (I made mention of), representatives of the Society and their Attorney were present in court when the Judge made the Order The Society subsequently gave an undertaking to vacate the Property by January 31, 2025 … (and) A
copy of the Order was formally served on the Society.”
So why and how this act of mischief? It is only after the Society failed to honour its undertaking, the Company said it was left with no choice, but to seek enforcement of the Court's ruling.
Who doth argue with this?
I need not go on, except tojointhechorusthatindeed thereisa“disturbingtrendof d i s i n f o r m a t i o n a n d misinformation” emanating from opposition figures surrounding the ongoing landmatter
As the Minister intoned and as I have delineated, “At no time, as is being claimed by mischievous elements of the opposition, has the PPP/C Government had any hand in the removal of the squatters on the Friendship land.” The matter is simply being 'rightfully' and legally playedout.
Yours truly, RaymondAnderson
Unqualified persons in the diaspora are receiving cash grant
DearEditor, I am of the opinion that the people responsible for giving out the cash grant are not doing a proper job. I also think that there are irregularities taking place at the registrar of birth and deaths.I say this because an individual who is a Canadian citizen and is the recipient of the cash grant had obtained birth certificates for his two adultchildrenwhowereborn inCanada.
As such they have
received the last cash grant and are in the process in receiving the current one in theirGuyanabankaccount.
I am sure this is happening elsewhere. The
Government needs to stop this hand out because it makes local Guyanese lazy anddonotwanttowork.
Regards C. Singh
Arbitrary Policy Changes...
From page 4 must themselves embody the principles of justice, transparency, andrespectforrights GECOMmustberemindedthatauthorityis not absolute It is constrained by law, guided by fairness, and accountabletothepeopleitserves bothinternallyandnationally
Yours faithfully, Concerned Employees
CARICOM preparing to dispatch humanitarian supplies to Cuba
T h e C a r i b b e a n Community (CARICOM) onTuesdaysaidthatregional governments are preparing to dispatch humanitarian aid to Cuba, following a decision announced by CARICOM Chairman, Dr Terrance Drew at the 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government held in St Kitts and Nevis on 24 – 27 February2026.
I n a s t a t e m e n t , CARICOM Secretariat said it is coordinating the humanitarianeffort.
“Items such as powdered milk, including baby formula; non-perishables such as beans, wheat flour, rice,andcannedgoods;basic medical supplies; solar panels; batteries, and water tanks, will be purchased on behalfofMemberStatesand shipped to Cuba,” the statementsaid.
Further, the initiative is being supported by the Government of Mexico, which has identified suppliers in Mexico able to deliver the items to the port of departure, and which will provide free shipment from MexicotoCuba.
L a s t m o n t h , t h e CARICOM chair said that Cuba was discussed during talks with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who was present at the CARICOM heads
meeting.
“With respect to Cuba andthehumanitarianefforts, we are going to respond on thehumanitarianendinshort order Within a month,” he said, noting that specifics will be released later but u n d e r s c o r i n g t h a t CARICOMwillrespondina significant way to help the humanitarian situation in Cuba.
Dr Drew also referenced the joint statement issued by CARICOM, stating, “The matter of the challenging situation in Cuba was also discussed All parties recognised that there should be efforts to address the growinghumanitariancrisis.
The Caribbean Community, cognisant of its very close relationship with both Cuba andtheUSA,andmindfulof the extent to which the region can be negatively affected, is willing to participate in any way that willredoundtothebenefitof the Cuban people, while maintaining regional stability.”
In response to a question on whether CARICOM will be involved in any transitional talks relating to Cuba, Dr Drew said CARICOM's focus at this time is on the humanitarian situation.
When pressed further on whether CARICOM's aid to Cubawouldincludefuel,the
A 33-year-old vendor was on Monday sentenced to 32 years in prisonforthe2021murderofaman whomhestabbed17times.
The sentence was handed down by acting Chief Justice Navindra SinghattheDemeraraHighCourt.
The convicted man, Osafi Johnson, of Lot 707 East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, was indicted for the murder of 24-yearold Nico Layne, called “Daddy,” of theWest Front Road squatting area, West Ruimveldt, Georgetown Layne was killed on March 28, 2021, after being attacked with a cutlassandaknife.
Johnson pleaded guilty to the offenceonFebruary11,2026.
According to the agreed facts, on March 28, 2021, at about 01:15 hrs, Layne parked the bicycle he was riding near a snackette and joined a group playing cards at the junction of High and Hadfield Streets, on the northern side of Silvie'sGeneralStore.
About 30 minutes later, Layne began searching for his bicycle,
chair said that within a month a team will be formed t o d e t e r m i n e t h e requirements and decide w h a t h u m a n i t a r i a n assistancewillbeoffered.
“At this time, again the details as I mentioned will come…”hestated.
In the joint-statement it was stated that the heads of state and heads of government discussion with SecretaryRubioonFebruary 2 5 t h w a s a h i g h l y constructiveonewithafrank conversation regarding the essential interests of all parties.
“Given the strong historical, diplomatic, familial and economic ties and cooperation over the years in matters of security, therewasaclearplatformfor all to continue to work together to build a stronger, safer, more secure and prosperous Caribbean and
United States ofAmerica; in other words, a stronger, safer, more secure and prosperous neighbourhood,” CARICOMsaid.
Kaieteur News had reported that the former Caribbean heads of state and government issued a public appeal calling for urgent action to prevent the deepening humanitarian crisisinCuba.
In the statement attributed to former
Guyanese President Donald Ramotar and former prime ministers Keith Rowley, Kenny Anthony, Bruce Golding, Edison James, Tillman Thomas, P J Patterson and Freundel Stuart, the leaders said they are “perturbed” by the situationunfoldinginCuba. They pointed to the U.S executive order, arguing that it amounts to economic warfare and inflicts
subsequently left the area, walking north along High Street toward Brickdam.
Roughlyanhourandahalflater, between 03:10 hrs and 04:05 hrs,
Layne was seen running back towards the group from Hadfield Street, being chased by two men, including Johnson, who was armed with a long knife, and another man identified as Tafari, who carried a cutlass. A woman, Natasha Tait, also armed with a cutlass, was reportedlywiththem.
Layne, who had already sustained injuries and was bleeding fromhisarmpit,askedthegroupfor aknifebeforecontinuingtoflee.He ran south along High Street, turned east onto Leopold Street, and eventuallycollapsed.
Johnson and his accomplice caught up with him and inflicted multiple stab wounds. Layne was later seen lying on the ground while the attackers stood over him before walking away and attempting to stop a passing vehicle.After failing to do so, they fled the area but were later apprehended by police on Lyng Street, Charlestown, and taken to the Brickdam Police Station.
Layne was transported to the
“unconscionable suffering” ontheCubanpeople.
“The consequences of this horrific fuel blockade are catastrophic and constitute cruel punishment of the 11 million civilians by the strangulation of Cuba's vital requirements for energy, food, medication, education and basic livelihood,” the former leadersnoted.
They noted that the universal principle of dialogue to resolve conflicts and disputes must not be abandoned in favour of what they described as political vendettas waged by powerful nations against smaller states through economicmeasures.
M e a n w h i l e , l a s t weekend the BBC reported that more than 10 million peoplehadpowercuttotheir homesandbusinessesacross Cuba after the country's national electrical grid collapsedforthesecondtime inaweek.
Cuba's energy ministry said"atotaldisconnectionof the National Electrical System has occurred", in a socialmediastatement.
Cuba's grid operator UNE said it was gradually recovering electricity, prioritising "vital" centres including hospitals and watersystems.
During the sentencing hearing, victim impact statements were presented by Layne's family, who remain visibly distraught nearly fiveyearsafterhisdeath.
His sister, Sheneza,“Nico was my youngest sibling. When our mother died, I felt responsible for caring for him. He was the most willingandcaringperson.Hisdeath hassignificantlyimpactedourlives. He brought life to our yard. It has been five years, but his death is still feltdaily Imissmybrotherandwill forever grieve his loss. I ask the courtforjustice.”
Another sister, Lonnele Layne, told the court, “My brother's death affected everyone. My aunt became extremely stressed and depressed over his murder She became severely ill and died as a result. Seeing how the convicted men continued to stab my brother, as if he were a domestic animal, was extremely painful.” When given a
(Continued on page 22)
about half of Havana, according to its electricity company
The Caribbean country has suffered three major blackoutsthismonthasaUS fuel blockade cuts off foreign oil imports, required to keep power stations running.
The Communist-run country has an ageing electricity infrastructure and chronicfuelshortages.
A c o a l i t i o n o f international socialist groups arrived in Havana over the weekend to show their support for the Cuban government, bringing with them aid donations of solar panels, basic food kits and medicines.
The "Nuestra America" convoy, a flotilla of aid leaving Mexico, was delayedbecauseofroughsea conditions but is expected to arrive in Havana's port on Monday.
Rare public dissent sparked by the recent crisis and national power cuts saw locals banging pots and pans in central Havana on Monday Protesters in central Cuba's town of Morón also attacked and set fire to the Communist Party headquarters on the same day
U n a u t h o r i s e d demonstrations are illegal in Cubaandthosewhodefythe banriskbeingjailed.
Dead; Nico Layne
KathySmithre-electedpresidentofGCCI
Smith with the executives of the GCCI.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) held its 136th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Wednesday, March 19, 2026. During the meeting, remarks were delivered byMrs.KathySmithandtheGuest Speaker, His Excellency President Dr MohamedIrfaanAli.
Followingthedissolutionofthe GCCI’s 2025/2026 Council, elections for the Chamber’s 21member Council were: Member
Representative Votes Dynotech ConstructionChemicalsInc.Kathy S. Smith, Timothy Tucker, Kester Hutson, Richard Rambarran, Komal Ramnauth, Dr. Rosh Khan, KeonHoward,GavinRamsoondar, Delmar Walcott, Navin Prashad, Dr Natasha Gaskin-Peters, Rayad P Boyce
Also elected were Kristia R
Edwards, Dr Ayesha Wilburg, Mary Nagasar, Melisa McRae-
George, Paul Archer, Devon Seeram, Holly Persaud, Martina McDonald-Johnson held and the followingmemberswereelectedas thenewcouncilofthechamberfor theyear2026/2027.
Subsequent to the AGM, the newCouncilhelditsfirststatutory councilmeetingonTuesday,March 24, 2026, to elect from its body a new Executive Management Committee (EMC) for the year 2026/2027. The EMC comprises a
president, senior vice president, juniorvicepresident,treasurer,and secretary. The elected Executives are as follows: President Mrs. KathySmith,SeniorVicePresident Mr. Gavin Ramsoondar, Junior Vice President Mrs Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott,TreasurerMrs. Melisa McRae-George Guyana Payroll Solutions, Secretary Mr BrianEdwardsGreenAgroService &SuppliesInc.
The Council also invited Past
Reelected president of the GCCI, Kathy Smith
Presidents Mr. Timothy Tucker, Mr. Kester Hutson and Mr. Komal Ramnauth, and Councillor Mr. Delmar Walcott to serve on the Executive Management Committee asEx-OfficioMembers
congratulate the Councillors and theExecutivesandlookforwardto theirstewardshipoftheChamber
A time to give
For far too long, the Caribbean Community has spoken of solidarity without always matching words with action. But this week, we have seen a welcome shift.
The Caribbean Community has finally gotten its act together and announced that i t w i l l b e s e n d i n g humanitarian aid to Cuba. It is a move that should have happened sooner, but as the saying goes, better late than never.
Now, the spotlight falls on us here in Guyana. While CARICOM as a body is moving,ourowngovernment must show leadership. We should have long mobilized our own assistance, but we have a chance to make up for lost time. This is not just a matter of regional duty; it is a practical opportunity to help our Caribbean neighbor while also finding creative solutions to some of our own domesticchallenges.
The government of Guyana can now make a direct appeal to corporate Guyana and to every citizen. Let us be generous. Cuba is facing severe hardships due to the tightening of an unjust embargobytheUnitedStates of America The Cuban people are in need of basics—food, medicine, and supplies to keep their daily lives running. We have the resources to help, and we havetheheart.
One of the most practical ways Guyana can assist is by
using our strength in agriculture. Cuba is a nation of 11 million people. China has already stepped forward, sending some 60,000 tonnes of rice. But in a country with such a large population, that shipment is expected to last onlyaboutamonth.Thistells you the scale of the need.
Brazil is sending 20,000 tons ofrice,alongwith150tonsof black beans, 150 tons of milled rice, and 500 tons of powdered milk. Mexico is also sending assistance as is Canada.
Guyana can match what China has done. Guyana is a rice-producing country. We have surplus rice that we can export to Cuba. But instead of simply selling it, our government should use the opportunity to barter We can send rice in exchange for needed supplies from Cuba, includingperhapssugar This w o u l d b e a s m a r t arrangement. It would allow us to send the entirety of Guyana's own dismal sugar production for export in the Caribbean, without worrying about meeting local demand, because we would be importingCubansugar Itisa win-win:Cubagetsthericeit desperatelyneeds,andweget a stable sugar supply while freeing up our own production for external markets.
But the aid cannot stop at rice. Cuba is also facing a transportation crisis, largely caused by the embargo on
fuel. People are struggling to get to work, to move goods, to live their daily lives. One simple, effective solution is bicycles. A bicycle requires no fuel, it is clean, and it gives a person mobility Guyana should send bicycles to Cuba. It is a small thing that can make a huge difference in helping Cuban families beat the transport crisis.
So how do we make all this happen in an organized way? We must not leave it to chance. The Private Sector Commission (PSC) should be asked to coordinate this relief exercise. The PSC has
logistical know-how to
humanitarian effort. But to make it efficient and to ensure that aid reaches those who need it most, the commission should be asked to collect only a specific set of items. No confusion, no clutter
Let the list be simple: bulk rice, toilet paper,
, bicycles, and solar panels with solar lights. These are the things that will have the mostimmediateimpact.Rice provides sustenance. Toilet paper meets a basic daily need. Medicines are always in short supply during a crisis Bicycles restore mobility And solar panels and lights offer a solution to energy shortages, allowing
DEM BOYS SEH
A jersey and a message
Dem boys seh solidarity ain't always about big speeches and marches.Sometimes it's simpler dan dat. Sometimes it's about whatyuhwearingonyuhback.
Demboyswaswalkingdowntheroadde other day, minding my own business, when dem boys see a fella with a jersey Plain jersey But de words pon it? Dem catch my eye straight. It print up bold, “I Stand with Cuba!”
Now, dem boys ain't know de fella. But when dem boys see dat jersey, dem feel something. Because right now, Cuba going through hell. And dem boys don't mean de ordinary kinda trouble. Dem boys mean de kind of trouble where fuel stop flowing. De embargo so tight now dat even gas for de people'scarsanddehospitals'generatorsget cut off. America say, “No fuel fuh Cuba.” Fullstop.
You know what dat mean? It mean people can't get to work. It mean food cyah reach de markets. It mean ambulance cyah run. It mean mothers watching deir children hungryanddelightsout.
Dat ain't politics. Dat is suffering. And some people calling it what it is: economic genocide. Because when you deliberately cut off fuel to an entire country of 11 million
families to have light and power without relying on importedfuel.
The government must also put its money where its mouth is. It should seek to purchase from our local rice millers at least 60,000 tonnes of rice for donation to Cuba. That is a significant amount, but it is well within our capacity as a major rice producer It would also support our own farmers and millers by giving them a substantial order at a time when markets can be uncertain. Additionally, the government should procure another 10,000 bicycles That number may sound large, but spread across a
nationof11millionpeople,it isameaningfulcontribution. Some may ask why we should give so much when we have our own needs. But the truth is that solidarity is not about giving from your excess; it is about standing with your neighbor when they are in trouble CARICOM was built on the principle that we are stronger together Cuba has long shared its doctors, its teachers, and its expertise with the Caribbean. Now it is our turn to share what we have. Let us not delay any further. The government must immediately make the appeal. Corporate Guyana which has the resources must
respond The people of G u y a n a h a v e t h e compassion. Let us come together, let the Private S e c t o r C o m m i s s i o n coordinate the effort, and let us send a shipment that shows the strength of Caribbean unity Better late than never—but now is the timetoact.
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.)
people, you not aiming at de government. You aiming at de grandmother, de schoolteacher,denewbornbaby
So when dem boys see dat jersey—just a ordinary fella with “I Stand with Cuba” pon his chest—dem boys say, “Dis is how we fightback.”
Because dem boys seh, the big powers got planes and missiles and sanctions. But we got something too. We got voice. We got conscience. And we got de ability to wear a messagedatsay,“Weseeyuh.Wewithyuh.”
Not everybody can send rice Not everybody can send bicycle. But every single one of us can wear a jersey It small, yes.Butdon'tletnobodytellyuhsmallthing cyah mean something. When yuh walking down de road and ten people see yuh jersey, and one of dem go home and Google what happening in Cuba, dat is solidarity When yuh child ask yuh why yuh wearing it, and yuhexplainaboutembargoandjustice,datis education. When enough of us wear it, and peoplestarttonotice,datismovement.
So let me tell yuh straight. Dem boys going and get dem own jersey “I Stand with Cuba.” And dem boys wearing it loud and proud. Talk half. Leff half.
Windfall taxes, like hell
Wantashort,stiffanswer onthepossibilityofwindfall taxes paid by Exxon to Guyana? Getready Getout of here. “NO! we’ve been very clear on that.” Mr Alistair Routledge couldn’t beclearer What’sveryclear alsoishowthePPPGovt.of Drs. Ali and Jagdeo falls in line with that, offers no pushback.
Guyana’s leaders are humiliated in their own home,andtheykneelbefore an arrogant exploiter, practicallyinvitemoreofthe same, without any shame.
Exxon’s man in Guyana operateslikeoneofthoseold
BritishviceroysinIndia.
Recall powerful maharajahs who were good at taking advantage of their own people, beating them, but ready to take a knee before their British masters. New country, new century, new treasure, new masters. Same old story: voracious
M r . R o u t l e d g e emphasised “stability” and itssignificanceforExxon. I hold him to that (stability).
From Guyana’s cheap-toproduce, sweet to refineries
and consumers, oil, Exxon was already profiting handsomely Guyana’s contract, the company’s matchless windfall, ensures a series of such profit killings.
But, said Mr Routledge, “It’s extremely important that there’s a stable investment climate. These spikes in oil price happen from time to time, but they’re not predictable, and when they do happen, they are what enable us, then, to carry through the periods whenoilpricedropsagain.”
Spikes and drops in oil prices. Stability helps to smooth the peaks and troughs Beautifully articulated, sir But even when oil prices drop, Exxon still does mighty fine, because of the low breakeven price that the company enjoys for each barrel produced, from the contract that it foisted on Guyana. It’s what strips Guyana of money, dignity, and the kind of prosperity duetoitfromitstreasure.
Putdifferently,oilprices havetofallverysteeplyand stay there for a prolonged period before Exxon even e x p e r i e n c e s w h a t approaches some level of instability Maybenotquite aslargetheswollenprofitsof years before, but nothing skimpy,either.
Further still, oil prices have almost doubled versus thatUS$60abarreltowhich ithaddeclined. Butthewily Mr.Routledgeisn’tsayinga word about windfall profits. Norishedoinganysparring with windfall taxes. Some mention 25% in windfall taxes. Icanonlycountupto 10, and on extraordinary dayscreepnearto15.
How about huddling with Darren Woods and the Texas oil posse, for some clearance for 10% 0r 15%? How does 10% of that extra US$40 a barrel push Exxon intounstableterritory? Four dollars more from each barrel for Guyana wouldn’t piledrive Exxon to soup kitchen line, or breadline. I am surprised at Mr
Routledge, who comes up with these farces,ofwhichstability isone.
How he reduces himself to the laughable. I’d bet precious money, my last dollar, that Alistair Routledgeisasharper,wiser, man than he makes himself out to be. Disappointment for this old Exxon hand washesoverme.
Exxon is not making the same dime that Guyana makes from its oil. The world knows that when Guyanagetsapenny,Exxon draws a pound. Before I forget,thatpoundforExxon isonlyfromofficialfigures; while Guyana’s penny remains just that: a solitary, rustypenny
Mr Routledge insists that when oil prices have fallen in the past, governmentshaven’toffered relief to his company. Again, he should know better Oilpricesfallalong waydownandlandhard,and Guyana doesn’t have anything to get. So, what
does it have to give, sir? It couldn’t even offer the Guyanese people a living standardcommensuratewith their honour of being the richestintheworld,andthat was when oil was around US$80abasket.
So,whatthehell(pardon me)itcouldofferExxonasa rebate,ifoilfallstoUS$50a barrel? Exxon’s still profiting from Guyana’s oil, but Guyana crumpling from oil prices collapsing on its head. NotatUS$20abarrel, Godforbid,butatUS$50per 42 gallons. I apologise again. Oil and god don’t mix. For Guyana to collect windfall taxes, manna must fall from the sky first Thanks for nothing, Mr Routledge.
(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)
The High and Cowan Streets, Kingston, Georgetown bridge will be rebuilt at an estimated cost of $233 million. The project falls under the MinistryofPublicWorks.
Minutes from the last opening of tenders at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) office disclosed that the ministry received six bids for the construction of a prestressedconcretebridgeatHighandCowanStreets
Thesixcontractorswhoappliedforthecontract are Ashoka Buildcon Limited ($215,994,281.17) and $189,540,312 56 (alt price); DCSN Construction&GeneralSuppliesInc.,injoint Continued on page 14
The High Street bridge which will be rebuilt. (DPI photo)
GEA,GPLmovetocurbpowerdemand ...as grid pressures mount
The Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) and Guyana PowerandLight(GPL)have launched a joint Demand Side Management (DSM)
programme aimed at
reducing electricity
consumption, easing pressureonthenationalgrid, and accelerating the shift to renewableenergy
The initiative was unveiledduringaninaugural meeting held last Thursday at GPL’s headquarters, bringing together technical teams from both agencies, the GEA said in a press release. According to the GEA demand side management focuses on influencing how and when consumers use electricity, promoting efficiency and conservation instead of relying solely on expanding generationcapacity
The programme is expected to reduce overall consumption, prevent grid overload, improve system stability, and lower
emissions from the power sector. Officials from both agencies agreed there is significant potential to improve energy efficiency
n
responsibleelectricityuse. A key pillar of the programmeisthepromotion
Seated at the head table (R to L): Dr. Mahender Sharma, CEO of the GEA, and Mr. Kesh Nandlall, Head of Executive Management of GPL Inc., attended the inaugural meeting with their respective technical teams ahead of the launch of the Demand Side Management Programme.
appliances. Consumers will be encouraged to adopt inverter air conditioners and
outdated high-consumption devices, and prioritise
expected to lower both energy use and electricity bills.
companies to reinvest savingsintotheiroperations. Power factor correction measures will also be introduced to improve efficiency and overall grid performance.
Renewa
energy adoption forms another major component of the programme Homeowners and businesses will be encouraged to incorporate energy-efficient building designs, including proper
construction, and efficient
renewable options such as solarpower
inefficiencies, reduce operating costs, and allow
The initiative will also target large electricity users through energy audits and assessments, particularly in the business sector. These aud
Theprogrammewillalso promote grid-tied solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, allowingconsumersto
Continuedonpage14
Courts employee charged for stealing from company
Courts employee, Kade Clay
A 21-year-old warehouse attendant employed with UnicomerGuyanaInc.(Courts)RichmondEssequiboCoast; RegionTwobranchwasonFridaychargedforstealingitems fromthecompany
The defendant identified as Kade Clay of Darthmouth Village,EssequiboCoast,waschargedwithlarcenybyclerk andservant.
HeappearedattheAnnaReginaMagistrate’sCourtbefore MagistrateRavindraMohabir.Claypleadednotguiltytothe offence and was granted $350,000 bail. The defendant is expectedtoreturntocourtonApril15,2026.
$233Mestimatedto...
Frompage12
Construct
on Inc ($271,244,000); Gaico Construction & General S e r v i c e s I n c ($389,463,850); K P Thomas&SonsContracting Inc ($431,045,160); Dax
Contracting Services ($431,372,760); and B K International Inc ($269,714,399).
On January 6, 2026, the ministry issued a public notice restricting the use of the bridge by heavy laden trucks. Further, the ministry said that there has been excessive settlement (sinking) of the High Street bridge.
“This damage is the result of very heavy trucks and the age of the structure itself The damages will n e c e s s i t a t e t h e reconstructionofthebridge, whichwillhavetobedoneat the most convenient time, considering its location and theeffectonthepublic,”the ministrysaidinitsnotice.
Theministry,atthetime, advised all road users that a
weight restriction of 10 tons will be imposed on the bridge. All trucks weighing more than 10 tons were asked to use alternative routes.
Days later, subject minister Juan Edghill and a teamvisitedthelocationand explained that the recent paving done by the Special ProjectsUnitofhisministry does not mean the bridge wasfixed.Heexplainedthat the asphalt was laid only to levelasunkensectionofthe bridge, allowing cars and busestopassmoresmoothly
“Pleasedon’tmistakethe factthatyouhaveseenfresh asphalt on the bridge and think the bridge has been fixed and everything has returned to normal The bottom still cannot bear the weight of more than 10 tonnes,”hecautioned.
He warned that signs were installed and that the ministry will be working closely with the Guyana PoliceForce(GPF)toensure compliance, the Department of Public Information (DPI) reported.
GEA,GPLmovetocurb...
Frompage13
generateelectricityandfeedexcesspowerbackintothegrid. Under GPL’s net-billing arrangement, users—referred to as “prosumers”—can earn credits or compensation for surplus energysuppliedtothesystem.
“This programme provides a structured approach to developing a sustained and comprehensive demand side managementframework,”saidDr.Sharma,ChiefExecutive OfficerofGEA. Mr KeshNandlall,HeadofExecutiveManagementGPL Inc addedthattheinitiativeistimelyandwillplayacritical role in driving behavioural change while supporting the transitiontorenewableenergy
Aligned with Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, the DSM programme is expected to strengthenthestabilityandperformanceofthenationalgrid while positioning the country on a more sustainable energy path. GEA and GPL say work is ongoing to roll out the programme nationally, with a focus on guiding consumers toward more efficient and environmentally responsible energypractices.
Demerara Bank opens new branch at BV
— as Pres. Ali signals launch of national payment plan
President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali announced on Monday that Guyana is prepared to roll out a national payment platform and expand access to digital wallets withinthenextsixmonths.
The Guyanese leader made the declaration at the commissioning ceremony to mark the opening of a new branch of Demerara Bank Limited at Beterverwagting along theEastCoastofDemerara.
Hesaidthemoveformspartofa broader strategy to modernise Guyana’s financial sector and expand access to cashless transactions “In the next six months,Ihaveadvisedthegovernor oftheCentralBankthat…anational payment platform must be fully operational and we must have access to the digital wallets at a national level and at a national scale,”hestated.
A digital wallet allows users to make payments using their mobile devices, reducing reliance on physicalcash.Thepresidentsaidthe next phase will focus on building the supporting infrastructure to enable seamless transactions
equipping supermarkets, retail outlets and other businesses with technology that can process contactless payments, allowing customerstopaybysimplytapping orswipingtheirphones.
“Thatiswherewearegoing,and that is where the country is heading,” President Ali stated Demerara Bank is also expected to launchitsowndigitalwalletsforits
Continued on page 20
President Irfaan Ali and other officials oversee the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the new Demerara Bank Ltd branch.
The new Demerara Bank branch at Beterverwagting
Liquidator moves to sell Stabroek News properties
The liquidator for Guyana Publications Inc , publisher of the recently closed Stabroek News, has begun advertising the sale of two prime commercial properties in centralGeorgetown.
Theproperties,whichpreviouslyhoused thenewspaper’soperations,arebeingoffered for immediate sale and are listed as unencumbered. One of the properties is a corner lot located at Durban, George and LeopoldStreets.
Spanning approximately 9,000 square feet (0 207 acres), the site features a reinforced concrete, industrial-grade building with dual frontage. The location previously housed the newspaper’s printing press and is being marketed as suitable for commercial,industrialorredevelopmentuse.
The second property is situated along Robb Street in Lacytown, one of Georgetown’s main commercial corridors. Measuring approximately 6,350 square feet (0 146 acres), the building formerly
accommodated the newspaper’s offices and includes open-plan workspaces and meeting rooms. It is being promoted as ideal for professional, commercial or institutional purposes.
The sale is being overseen by Chartered Accountant Christopher Ram, who was appointedliquidatorofGuyanaPublications Inc. following the newspaper’s closure.
Interestedpartieshavebeeninvitedtosubmit expressions of interest, with additional documents, including transports, plans and drawings—availableuponrequest.
The move to dispose of the paper’s real estate assets marks a significant step in the winding down of one of Guyana’s longstanding media entities, which ceased operations earlier this year Stabroek News printed its last edition on March 14 after nearly40yearsofoperations.
Stabroek News, which began publishing in November 1986 and became a daily in 1994, faced an existential challenge from
global digital platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and TikTok, the companystated.
Globally, the company noted, print advertisinghasdeclinedby75percent,from approximately US$110 billion in 2004 to US$26 billion in 2024. It also disclosed that in recent years, GPI absorbed mounting losses by drawing on its cash reserves.
“Despitecuttingcosts, the companyhas lost money for six out of the last ten years”, the companysaid.
Stabroek News was founded in 1986 by attorney David de Caires, with his wife Doreenbesidehim.Inastatementissued,the founder’s children, Isabelle and Brendan de Caireshaddescribedthedecisiontoclosethe newspaper as “extraordinarily difficult and painful”. “Stabroek News was born in a media environment very different to the one thatexistsinGuyanatoday,”itwasstated.
The siblings noted that shortly before theirfather’sdeath,thenewspaperendureda period when advertisements from state-
owned companies, which was a significant sourceofrevenue,werewithheld.
“Arathercrudeattempttomuzzlethefree press In the past year, the state-run Department of Public Information has accruedadebttothisnewspaperinexcessof G$80,000,000inunpaidadvertisements.The debt persists despite repeated private and publicentreatiestoclearit.Thistacticcould equally be construed as an attempt to starve this company of its operating funds,” it was furtherstated.
Itwasnotedthatwhilethebusinesstried to diversify and adapt seeking alternative sources of income, it faced significant obstacles.
“We have repeatedly sought (and been refused) a radio licence Although we operated aTVsubsidiary for a few decades, our main local competitors enjoyed significant privileges. The playing field was not level. The anticipated progression from newspaper to multi-media broadcaster has beenimpossible,”itstated.
The Robb Street property of Stabroek News
Health Ministry expanding dialysis access, to build six new centres
TheMinistryofHealthis in the process of expanding dialysis services to patients living in Regions Two, Three, Four, Five and Six withtheconstructionofnew dialysis centres in each region.
In an invitation for bids, the ministry will be constructing dialysis centres atLimainRegionTwo,atDe KindereninRegionThree,at Diamond and at Enmore in Region Four, at Bath in Region Five and at No. 75 VillageinRegionSix.
It should be noted that these locations all have a
brand-new Regional
Hospital which were commissionedlastyear
According to the tender notice, bids for the project are expected to open on April,7,2026attheNational TenderBoard.
Dialysis is the treatment needed for persons whose kidneysarefailing.
Minister of Health, Dr FrankAnthony speaking at a recent World Kidney Day Conference, highlighted the growing impact of chronic
diseases in Guyana, particularly diabetes and hypertension, which are major contributors to kidney disease He noted that the Ministry established a dedicated Chronic Disease Departmentinrecentyearsto strengthen prevention, early detection, and treatment servicesacrossthecountry
TheMinisteremphasised the importance of early testing and encouraged the public to utilise the Ministry’s health vouchers, which allow individuals to access important laboratory tests, including kidney function testing These efforts have helped identify more persons at risk and supportearlierintervention.
During his remarks, he also outlined ongoing initiativestoexpanddialysis services and strengthen kidneycarenationwide. Additional dialysis machinesarebeingplacedin regional hospitals, while partnerships with nongovernmental organisations andinternationalinstitutions continue to support improved treatment and training,hestated.
Q u o t e d b y t h e Department of Public Information, the minister stated, “At the moment, some of the facilities where wehavedialysisareoperated w i t h e x t e r n a l partners Going forward, we have been working to introducedialysisinsomeof ourpublichospital.”
He said dialysis chairs willsoonbeplacedinthesix newly constructed hospitals. He added that 15 new dialysis machines will also be strategically placed in regionalhospitalstobroaden accesstotreatment.
Supporting patients, it was reported that the government increased financial assistance for dialysispatientsto$600,000 annually Previously, individuals received a oneoffpaymentof$350,000and were not eligible for further support.“Thathaschanged,”
Minister Anthony said, before stating that, “Now everyyearweareseeingalot of persons coming forward togetassistance.”
Currently, some 650 patients are benefiting from the financial support, which allows them to choose their preferreddialysisprovider
The minister disclosed that the Georgetown Public Hosp
(GPHC) is licensed to performkidneytransplants.
A dialysis machine
DemeraraBank opensnew...
Frompage16
customersinthenextfourto sixweeks.
PresidentAliemphasised thatmakingbankingservices more accessible to citizens remains central to Guyana’s development agenda, stating that Demerara Bank has taken a significant step in that direction with the openingofthenewbranch.
“Today’s opening represents a continued expansion of traditional banking services, but it also remindsusthatthefuturelies in greater inclusion and digital transformation, “the headofstatenoted.
He said that residents alongtheEastCoastcorridor will no longer need to travel to Georgetown to access basicbankingservices.
Instead, they can now open accounts, conduct transactions and access credit within their own community President Ali highlightedthatoverthepast nine months, the bank processed 450,000 new accounts electronically, and during that same period, more than $50 billion in transactions were conducted electronically
This, he said, is a “ r e m a r k a b l e ” accomplishment and is indicative of the bank’s responsivenesstocustomers’ needs.
“Whatweseeheretoday is not only success for Demerara Bank, but success for our country,” he said, adding that expansion in the financial sector reflects deliberate government policies aimed at creating a favourable climate for economicgrowth.
Private sector credit has grownbyover120percentin the last five years, mainly due to an increase in
mortgagelending.
Mortgage financing, he explained, rose from $90.6 billion in 2020 to $185.4 billion in 2025, closely linked to a surge in home ownership.
“This is about families buildingwealth,”hesaid.“It means more Guyanese are investing in their future, and development is taking place not only in statistics, but in towns, villages and households across the country.”
Headdedthattheaverage age of home ownership in Guyana is now among the lowest in the Caribbean, reflecting broader access to financing. Despite the rapid growth, President Ali noted that the banking system remains highly liquid. This means that there is still significant scope for increased lending and investment.
Dr Ashni Singh, the SeniorMinisterintheOffice of the President for Finance, commended the bank’s impressive growth over nearlythirtyyears.
He noted that Demerara Bankhasmovedfromhaving no deposit base at its inception to becoming the country’s third-largest depositholder
Speaking at the ceremony, chairman of the bank, Komal Samaroo, outlined the institution’s transformation over the past 14years.Hesaidassetshave grown from under $10 billion to approximately $242 billion, an increase of morethan7,000percent.
The bank has also invested in infrastructure beyond customer service, includingtheconstructionof a dedicated training facility to strengthen staff capacity andservicedelivery (DPI)
Haslington residents block road as man dies in police custody
...familycriesoutforjustice
Residents blocked the Public Road at Haslington, East Coast Demerara early Tuesday morning, joining grieving relatives of 30year-old Jordan Payne in a fierydemandforjusticeafter he died while in police custody
Up to late last night the residents were keeping vigil on the roadway as police ranks who have cleared the roadstoodguard.
In a statement police say Payne, of South Haslington, East Coast Demerara,
became unresponsive around Tuesday 00:10h at the Cove and John Police Station, where he had been detained in connection with adomesticviolencematter
AccordingtotheGuyana Police Force, Payne had complained of feeling unwell earlier and was escorted to the Enmore Regional Hospital, where he wasexaminedandtreatedby a doctor before being
returned to the station
However, while back in custody, he reportedly complained again of feeling ill and subsequently collapsed. He was rushed once more to the Enmore Regional Hospital, where he waspronounceddead. Authorities say no marks
Family shattered as Corentyne fisherman's body found
The body of 28-yearold fisherman Avinash Dookie was discovered on Tuesday, two days after he vanished in the Corentyne River
Relativesconfirmedthe grim discovery on Tuesday afternoon, bringing a heartbreaking end to days of anxious waiting and hope.Dookie, of No. 77
Village, Corentyne, Berbice, was reported missing on Saturday after he reportedly fell overboard while preparing to head out on a fishing trip fromOrealla.
He was onboard a vessel with several crew memberswhentheincident occurred According to reports, he submerged and wasnotseenagain.
A relative said the family received the devastating news around 2:15 pm on Tuesday, when they were informed that his body had been found some distance from where he disappeared.
The loss has hit the family hard, as they had been clinging to hope that hewouldbefoundalive.
“It's not the news we were expecting—we were
and mem
ers of the opposition party We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), including Tabitha SaraboHalley.
Probe underway
As tensions mounted,
Protesters on the East Coast public road block sections with debris, bringing traffic to a standstill as tensions escalate
hopinghewouldberescued alive,”arelativesaid.
Dookie's wife, Amrita, had told this publication that the last time she spoke with him was around lunchtime on Saturday
Later that afternoon, at about5:30pm,shereceived a call from the boat's owner informing her that he had fallen into the river Immediate rescue efforts provedunsuccessful.
Despite being told her husband could not swim, she had remained hopeful thathewouldsurvive.
Family members were told that the vessel was navigating high tides when Dookie reportedly bent over to fix the engine and fell into the water He was seen struggling and resurfaced several times beforedisappearing.
The boat captain reportedly made a report to thepolice.
Dookie,afatheroffour, had been working at sea for approximately seven years. He was not wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident.
A p o s t - m o r t e m examination is expected to beconductedtoday
of violence were observed onthebody Payne'sremains are currently at the hospital's mortuary awaiting a postmortem examination as investigationscontinue.
But that official account has done little to calm tensions in Haslington, where residents and family members took to the roadway, blocking traffic and insisting that more a n s w e r s a n d accountability—areneeded.
Also in a statemeng Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond said she is aware of the incident that occurred at the Cove and John Police Station and is actively working in close coordination with the Guyana Police Force to e s t a b l i s h t h e f u l l circumstances surrounding thismatter
"A thorough and c o m p r e h e n s i v e investigation has been initiated The Ministry assures the public, and in particular the affected family, that this process will be conducted with the
accountability," Walrond said.
“Weurgemembersofthe public to allow the investigative process to p r o c e e d w i t h o u t interference.Atthistime,we appeal for calm, restraint, and respect for the rule of law as the facts are carefully examined."
Walrond on behalf of her ministry also extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased. "We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to ensuring that due process is followed and that all
necessary actions are taken in accordance with the law," thestatementconcluded.
However, Payne's family has strongly rejected the police's account, alleging that his death was deliberately concealed. The revelation of his passing came only when his mother arrived at the station early Tuesday morning, prepared with clothing for his court appearance.
In a heart-wrenching account, his grieving mother Amanda Cato , explained that she had ironed her son's clothes and went to the station expecting to see him taken to court. Instead, she was told he was at the Enmore mortuary “When I gotoCoveandJohnstationI tellthepoliceIcometobring hisclothestocourt,themsay he deh Enmore mortuary Them say I gotta go down there. When I go , the doctor tell me how the police bring he dead. He whole body cold. They bring he after 12. The doctor said he died a whilenow,”Catosaid T h e m o t h e r , overwhelmed with grief, maintainsthathersonhadno known medical conditions and is now questioning how he could have died so suddenly while in custody
She also expressed concerns after reportedly observing marksonhisbody,whichshe believes must be thoroughly examined.
“I know my child,” she said, insisting that the circumstances surrounding hisdeathdonotaddup.
“I can't take this. I need justiceformyson.Whenyou turn he around he got marks of violence. They murdered myson,”shesaid
The situation quickly escalated into public unrest as news of Payne's death spread Family members, friends, and residents flooded the Cove and John Police Station and the Enmore Regional Hospital, demanding answers The anger soon spilled onto the public roadway, where protestors blocked sections of the road with debris, calling for justice, t r a n s p a r e n c y, a n d accountability
The protest drew the attention of several political figures and activists who joined the aggrieved community on the ground. Among them were Member of Parliament Dr David Hinds, Attorney-at-Law Ronald Daniels, Ernest Elliot,LloydFamey,Simona Broomes, Dorwain Bess,
A c t i n g C o m m a n d e r Stephens addressed the crowd, acknowledging their frustration and assuring them that an investigation had already been initiated. He noted that ranks from the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) would be involved to ensure transparency
“We understand your frustration. We have nothing to hide,” he told the gathering.
Meanwhile, Jordan's body remains at the hospital mortuary awaiting a postmortem examination, which is expected to determine the exactcauseofdeath.
As the investigation continues, Jordan's family remains resolute in their demand for truth and justice, while a shaken East Coast Demerara community grapples with grief, anger, and growing concern over t h e c i r c u m s t a n c e s surrounding his death in custody
Organiseforjustice
For their part, the minority opposition, APNU said their representatives visited Alicia Payne, the grieving mother of Jordan Payne.
According to APNU, the d e a d m a n ' s m o t h e r expressed deep distress to the APNU team, stating that she has received no information from the Guyana Police Force regarding the circumstances surrounding her son's death. "She is now calling for answers and justice," the APNUstatementread.
A t t o r n e y - a t - L a w Daniels urged concerned residents to remain calm and organided in their pursuit of justice, emphasising the importance of a coordinated approach.
"APNU is calling for transparency and an immediate and thorough investigation into the death of Jordan Payne," the statementended.
The deceased mother Amanda Castro
Dead: Ortiz Jordan
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IransaysU.S.initiated'outreach'toendwar, as Israel, Tehran continue to trade strikes
(CNN) An Iranian source told CNN on Tuesday that there had been “outreach” between the United States and Tehran and that Iran is willing to listen to “sustainable” proposals to end the war
“There has been outreach between the United States and Iran, initiated by Washington, in recent days, but nothing that has reached the leveloffull-onnegotiations,” the source said.
“Messages have been received through various intermediaries to scope out whether an agreement to end the war can be reached.”
“The proposals being lookedatareaimednotmerely atachievingaceasefire,buta concreteagreementtoendthe conflictbetweentheU.S.and Iran,” they added without going into further detail.
The source refused to comment on U.S. President Donald Trump's public statements on the negotiations, and emphasised Iran's positionhasbeenalwaysclearthat Tehran is ready to consider any viable proposal.
“Iran is not asking for a meetingordirecttalkswiththe UnitedStatesbutiswillingto listen if a plan for a sustainable deal comes within reach that would preserve the national interests of the Islamic Republic of Iran,” the source said.
“Iran is ready to provide all the necessary guarantees that it will never develop nuclear weapons but is entitled to peaceful use of nuclear technology.” The source insisted that any proposal must also include ending all sanctions imposed on Iran.
TheIranianofficialtalked of as a potential interlocutor withtheTrumpadministration once boasted that he personally beat protesters as a
young police commander in theIslamicRepublic.
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, speaker of the Iranian parliament, has never been shy about his role in suppressing challenges to theIslamicRepublic.
“Photographs of me are available showing me on backofamotorbike…beating (the protesters) with wooden sticks…I was among those carrying out beatings on the streetlevelandIamproudof that,” Ghalibaf is heard saying in an audio recording from 2013 about protests yearsearlier.
In recent weeks, as the U.S.-Israeli campaign has killedmanyofIran'stopleaders,hehasemergedasoneof the most senior surviving civilianfigures,partofashrinking pool of officials now shaping the country's response.
For the 64-year-old Ghalibaf, the security of the Islamic Republic has always been the overriding priority Hispublicremarksemphasise resistance, national strength, and the need to confront external pressure rather than compromise.
Littlesurprisethenthathe is now issuing declarations almost daily through social media in defiance of the United States and Israel.
President Donald Trump said Monday that the U.S. was having “very strong
talks” and was “dealing with the man who is most respected”inIran,butdeclined tonamehim.
“We'redealingwithsome people that I find to be very reasonable, very solid,” Trump told CNN's Kaitlan Collins.
“The people within know whotheyare,they'reveryrespected, and maybe one of themwillbeexactlywhatwe're lookingfor.”
Some reports said he was referring to Ghalibaf, who within hours denied there were any negotiations between Tehran and Washington.
He posted on X: “No negotiations have been held with the U.S., and fake news is used to manipulate the financial and oil markets and escapethequagmireinwhich the U.S. and Israel are trapped.”
Throughout the conflict, he has regularly used social media to goad Trump and demonstrate a hard line on Iran's conditions for ending thewar
“Certainly,wearen'tseeking a ceasefire. We believe the aggressor must be punished and taught a lesson that will deter them from attacking Iran again,” he said on X on March 10.
Ghalibaf was also prominentbeforethewarbrokeout, warning that such a conflict would spread across the re-
gion.
“Any war in the region would not be short-lived and would not be confined to a single party or a specific geography,” Ghalibaf told CNN's Frederik Pleitgen in late January
Experts say he has connections across the regime's centers of influence that wouldaffordhimacriticalrole in any negotiated settlement.
“He is the guy running the show,” said Hamidreza Azizi at the German Institute forInternationalandSecurity Affairs.
Ghalibafislessinterested in ideology than power and showsaMachiavelliantouch at times, says Azizi added. “Forhim,theendsjustifythe means,” he told CNN, pointing to his shifting perspectives through the years on economic and other issues.
Across a lifetime of service to the Islamic Republic, Ghalibafhasbecometheconsummate regime insider, unfailingly loyal to the Islamic Revolution of 1979 and supportive of its regional ambitions.
As a teenager, he joined the Islamic Revolutionary GuardsCorps(IRGC)during theIran-Iraqwarinthe1980s.
Thatmarkedthestartofa lifelong association with the IRGC,whichhasevolvedinto a powerful force to suppress dissent at home and project Iran's influence abroad.
Police have launched an investigation followingthediscoveryofthedecomposed body of 78-year-old Ronald Gobin in his South Turkeyen home on Monday, raising questions about how long the pensioner—who lived alone—had been dead before the grim find was made.
The deceased has been identified as Ronald Gobin, 78, a pensioner of the said address.Preliminary investigations revealed
that the deceased, who lived alone at the residence, was found in a state of decompositioninhisapartmentafterareportwas made to the Police.The man was later pronounced dead by a doctor on duty from the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation,afterwhichitwasescortedtoMemorialFuneralParlour,whereitawaitsapostmortemexamination.
Investigations are ongoing
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From page 6 chance to speak, Johnson expressed remorse, stating thatthekillingwasnotdeliberate.
He said he had learned from hisactionsandwasashamed.
“I know a life was lost. I did something bad. Can you finditinyourhearttoforgive me?Iknowhowitfeelstolose someone you love.
IfIhadthepowertobring him back, I would. Forgive me, I beg of you,” he told the court.
His attorney, Dexter Smartt, argued that Johnson
iscapableofrehabilitation.He notedthatreportsfromprison authorities described Johnson as respectful, cooperative, and compliant with institutionalrules,andthathe had participated in programmes aimed at personal improvement. Counsel alsohighlightedthatJohnson had no prior convictions and maintainedastrongChristian faith.
However, prosecutor ChristopherBelfieldurgedthe courttoconsideraggravating factors,includingtheseriousnessoftheoffence,thepreva-
lenceofunlawfulkillings,and the extent of the injuries inflictedonthevictim.
Delivering the sentence, Justice Singh stated that the court began with a base sentence of 36 years.
12 years were deducted forJohnson'sguiltyplea,and a further two years for favourable reports. However,fouryearswere added due to the impact on the victim's family and six years for the cruelty of the act, resulting in a final sentence of 32 years imprisonment.
Exxon award contracts to build 8th oil ship without Govt. approval
xxonMobil Guyana
Limited (EMGL) has moved to award several contracts, releasing payments to Dutch shipbuilder, SBM Offshore for an eight Floating Production, Storage and Offloading vessel (FPSO) to produce hydrocarbons at a projectyettobeapprovedby the Government of Guyana (GoG).
SBM has received contracts to perform Front EndEngineeringandDesign (FEED)studiesfortheFPSO
t h a t w i l l p r o d u c e hydrocarbonsattheLongtail project.
In a statement on Tuesday, SBM explained, “The FEED contracts award triggers the initial release of funds by ExxonMobil Guyana Limited to begin FEED activities and allocate a Fast4Ward hull for the Longtail development projectinGuyana.”
The company said further construction and installation activities for the FPSO will be conducted after government signals its approval for Exxon's development plan and the final investment decision by the company In the meantime, SBM said, “Under the contracts, the FPSO's ownership is expected to be transferred to the client at the end of the construction period and before start of operations in Guyana.”
EMGLPresident, Alistair Routledge
The eight FPSO will be designed and constructed by SBM using industry-leading Fast4Ward program with the Company's ninth new build, Multi-Purpose Floater hull, combined with several standardised topsides modules.
The FPSO will be designed to process 1,200 million cubic feet of gas per day and produce 250,000 barrels of condensate per day The FPSO will be spread moored in water depth of about 1,750 meters and will be able to store around 2 million barrels of condensate.
To date, SBM has been awarded contracts for six FPSOs by Exxon. The Liza Destiny, Liza Unity, Prosperity, One Guyana, JaguarandnowtheFPSOfor Longtail which has not been named yet were all awarded tothecompany
It said, “We are proud to receive this sixth FPSO award from ExxonMobil Guyana This project underscores the strength of ourFast4Wardapproachand extensive experience in large-scale gas-processing
Further, the construction costs are expected to be partially funded by senior loans which will be repaid at the time of the FPSO's transfer to ExxonMobil SBMOffshoreisexpectedto operatetheFPSOthroughits integrated operations and m a i n t e n a n c e m o d e l combining SBM Offshore and ExxonMobil's expertise and experience, leveraging key learnings and the operationalexcellenceofthe units currently deployed in Guyana.
Theawardofcontractsto SBM will drive up the cost bank which Exxon said Guyana will pay off by the end of this year given the
systems. SBM Offshore is well positioned to support the Longtail development, a major gas play demanding the highest gas handling capacityeverdeployedonan FPSO. Our teams remain fully committed to supporting the success of t h i s p r o j e c t a n d ExxonMobil's long-term energy development strategy.”
highpricesofoil.Lastweek, the President of EMGL, Alistair Routledge said, “We were anticipating sometime next year in 2027 that we weregoingtogettothepoint where we had recovered those historic cost...what we are now seeing in this price
environment is that will accelerate ” So far, ExxonMobil has expended U.S.$40B to develop the seven oil projects approved to date. Currently, U.S.$5B remains in the cost bank to be recovered by the company
Courtroom drama as dengue diagnosis halts Mohameds' extradition case
...doctor summoned, report challenged
By Shania Williams
High drama unfolded at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court on Thursday as extradition proceedings involving sanctioned businessman and Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed were abruptly halted, triggering a heated clash over a dengue diagnosis that forced his doctor to be summoned tocourt.
Thematter,whichalsoinvolves
Azruddin's father, Nazar Mohamed, has been adjourned for 12 days and will resume onApril 7 with the continuation of crossexamination of Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary, Sharon Roopchand-Edwards.
Azruddin Mohamed was notably absent from the 09:00 hrs hearing, while his father and attorneys Siand Dhurjon and Roysdale Forde appeared before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman. Forde told the court his client was undergoing medical treatment after being diagnosed with dengue and had been advised totake12daysofrest.
He stressed that Mohamed was too ill to participate, even virtually Forde further stated that due to the severityofhiscondition,Mohamed is unable to participate in the hearing, even virtually via Zoom.
As a result, Magistrate Latchman summoned Mohamed's doctor to appearbeforethecourtat13:30hrs.
In the afternoon session, Mohamed's physician, Dr. Kawal Dalip, told the court that the examination was conducted at his laboratory and that he formally diagnosed Azruddin Mohamed, recommending 12 days of rest. He assured the court that Mohamed cannot be present for up to 12 days butindicatedhewouldreassesshim onthe10thday
However, the medical report
came under scrutiny from prosecutor Glenn Hanoman, who raised concerns about its authenticity, describing what he described as “red flags,” and requested that the doctor be crossexaminedunderoath.
Magistrate Latchman did not permit cross-examination but allowed the prosecutor to raise his concerns. Hanoman questioned the timing of the diagnosis, pointing outinconsistenciesinthereport.He noted that the document suggested the diagnosis was made before the blood sample was processed. “The
blood sample was submitted to his lab at 11:50 hrs, yet he came to a diagnosis at 11:30 hrs, which is impossible.”
Dr Dalip rejected the claim, stating, “It's not an impossibility.” Hanoman further alleged, “We believe that this is blood work of a different patient, not Azruddin Mohamed.” He also challenged the length of the prescribed rest, arguing that dengue-related sick leave is typically between three to five days. However, Dr Dalip maintained that he usually recommends up to 14 days and added that Mohamed could not attend virtual hearings due to drowsiness caused by prescribed medication.
Additionally, Hanoman questioned Dr Dalip's credentials, noting that he is a gynaecologist, and applied for a new blood test to be conducted at a different laboratory
The defence strongly objected, arguing that the prosecutor lacks the medical expertise to challenge the doctor's professional qualifications.
Maintaining his doubts, Hanoman told the court he intends to seek surveillance footage from the vicinity of the doctor's facility to verify whether Mohamed visited thelocation.
Magistrate Latchman stated that such evidence could be presentedifobtained.Afterhearing submissions from both sides, Magistrate Latchman adjourned themattertoApril7.
Speaking to reporters outside the court, Hanoman said he remained unconvinced by the medical report but acknowledged thecourt'sruling.“Ithinkthethings that were raised were not effectively explained. I don't see how he can come to a diagnosis without reference to blood work.
He admitted that he came to a diagnosiswithoutthebloodwork.I had fears that they probably used blood work from a different patient and they just put his name. I would've liked to question the personfromthelab.”
Meanwhile,Fordecriticisedthe prosecution's position, describing the court's approach as unusual but ultimately supporting the document'svalidity
“This is the most unusual course adopted by the court. I understandtheneedforthecourtto verify the authenticity of the document because people can produce fraudulent documents, but I believe that in a court of law… it ought to have ended with the satisfaction that this was a document in fact prepared by Dr. Dalip, an extinguished medical doctor and member of the medical profession.”
Forde went further, dismissing the prosecution's claims “The questions raised are worthless, a complete waste of time, another display of his lack of knowledge in lawandproperprocedure.
What he cited as red flags are a bunchofnonsense.”
Responding to questions about whyMohamedwouldnotagreetoa second blood test, Forde said: “He
has no right to There is no obligation on him in the face of a medical report which states his illness to prove anything. He has a right to remain silent. He has brought a doctor who would have spokenonhisbehalf.”
Addressing Hanoman's intention to seek video evidence, Fordeadded:“Mr Hanomancango to Jupiter, Saturn and Pluto, he can do whatever he wishes because he isonacourseofstupidity.”
The Mohameds were granted bail in the sum of $150,000 each following their arrest on October 31,2025,afterU.S.authoritiesfiled anextraditionrequest.
The extradition case stems from criminal charges filed in a United States federal court in Miami, Florida.According to a 25page indictment unsealed on October 2, 2025, U.S. prosecutors allege that the Mohameds orchestrated a large-scale scheme involving fraudulent gold exports, customsviolations,bribery,andthe evasion of millions of dollars in taxes and royalties owed to Guyana.
The extradition case has been ongoing for over two months, with thematterbeingheardalmostdaily Now the Mohameds have 12 days untilthemattercommence.
AG reminds law students of role in defending justice, fairness
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, on Sunday reminded Law students of the role the legal profession plays in defending justice,fairness,andfreedom.
Deliveringthefeaturedremarks at the University of Guyana Law
Society's Annual Pinning
Ceremony at the Police Officers' Mess Annexe in Eve Leary, the attorney general powerfully reminded aspiring lawyers that their profession holds a profound responsibility that extends well beyondmerefinancialgain. He emphasised that the rule of
law remains the foundational pillar of society, warning that its absence leads to disorder and inequality.
“The legal profession is not an ordinary profession…Mankind has been struggling for justice, fairness, and freedom, and the lawyerplaysperhapsthegreatest role in achieving that objective,” the AG stated.Minister Nandlall also noted a decline in established standards within the legal profession, citing frequent complaints about negligence, poor t
ment, and a
ack of transparency by some legal practitioners “Every single
community…I am met with persons who have complaints about the conduct of their lawyers…People are treated poorly despite paying significant sums of money.”He stated that the government is moving to reform the Legal Practitioners Act to introduce stricter accountability
measures. The reform will include mandatory attachments for new lawyers to ensure practical training before delving into their own practice. The AG noted that access to justice for the unfortunate remainsamajorconcernandcalled on the next generation of legal professionalstorevivethetradition
of pro bono work.“If the profession becomes driven by money alone…the largest part of the human race will be denied justice.” Hide also encouraged students to use modern technology to improve their skills while following high ethical standards. (DPI)
Businessman Nazar Mohamed and son Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed
A section of the audience at the pinning ceremony
Azruddin Mohamed's Doctor Kawal Dalip
Sabalenka races to Miami win as Gauff battles on
BBC Sport - World number one Aryna Sabalenka made swift work of her Miami Open match against Zheng Qinwen to cruise intothequarterfinals.
The reigning champion took just an hour and 25 minutes to beat her Chinese opponent 6-36-4.
Sabalenka, 27, has won the US Open in eachofthepasttwoyearsandlooksinserene form.ShewillfaceHaileyBaptisteinthelast eight after the American defeated Latvian JelenaOstapenko-alsobya6-36-4margin.
Fourth seed Coco Gauff also reached the quarter-finals with a hard-fought 6-3 4-6 6-2 winoverSoranaCirsteaofRomania.
The 22-year-old American served six double faults and was broken five times in a sketchy display, but she had enough to win through and set up a match against Amanda AnisimovaorBelindaBencic.
The Miami tournament is Gauff's home event and she is eager to win the title but will not be stressing herself over doing so this year
She came into the event on the back of a retirement at Indian Wells earlier in the month, when a nerve problem in her left arm causedhertoabandonathird-roundmatch.
"I don't really feel pressure, I feel more supportedatthisevent,"shesaid.
"I want to win this tournament so bad because it is my home tournament But I didn't have the best preparation, so setting expectations lower allows me to free up and not expect too much of myself.”
Quarterfinals of Hamilton Green Cup postponed due to inclement weather
The highly anticipated quarterfinal matches of the Hamilton Green Cup have
conditions loom over the region, forcing organisers to reschedule today's fixtures at thePlaisanceGround.
Tournament coordinator, LennoxArthurhasconfirmed that, based on recent weather analyses and forecasts, the decision was made in the interest of player safety and m
quarterfinal clashes have now been moved to April 2, with the venue remaining unchanged. D
continuestobuildaroundthis unique football competition. Ye
rs revealed that following the c o m p l e
n o f t h e quarterfinal stage, the
tournament will accelerate into a high-energy finale featuring an eight-team showdown—all in a single night.Dubbed as “one night, eight matches, one title,” the revised structure will see teams progress immediately into semifinal encounters, before culminating with the grand finale to crown the 2026champions.
Teams including; West Side Alliance, Zeelugt, Mocha, Mahaica, Order and Discipline, Victoria, Golden Stars, and Plaisance remain incontentionfortophonours. With over $800,000 in prize money at stake, the eventual champions will walk away with a $500,000 cash prize. Second, third, and fourthplace finishers will earn $200,000, $100,000, and $50,000 respectively, along with medals and trophies r e c o g n i z i n g t h e i r achievements.
The tournament enjoys strong backing from former G e o r g e t o w n M a y o r Hamilton Green, alongside prominent supporters such as Michael Sue, Dr Linden Dodson, Ronaldo Alphonso, Edmond Veira, and Patrick Barton.
Corporate Guyana has alsothrownitsweightbehind the prestigious nine-a-side I
including Aurora, G Min Ventures, Busta Soft Drink, ENet, Star Rental, BK International, Correia & C
Electrical Company Ltd, IPA, China Trading, New Thriving Restaurant, Toolsie Persaud Ltd, King's Liquor Store, Gafoors, Beharry Ready Mix, and Rick's and Sari Enterprise have all contributed to the event's success.
Wednesday March 25, 2026
ARIES (Mar 21–Apr 19
You may receive some upsetting news from a family member today, Aries. It could haveyoureelingforamoment, but when you take the time to thinkaboutit
TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20)
You must weigh your physical limitationswithyourdesiretoget everythingdone,Taurus Yourun the risk of wearing yourself out andgettingsickjustasyoufinish yourtasks
GEMINI (May 21–June 20)
Today you could realize that a friend is actually your soul mate, Gemini You've been spending a lot of time together attending social events, and you've come to realize how much you look forward to each other's company
CANCER (June 21–July 22)
Youmayfeelatoddswiththerest oftheworldnow,Cancer,asyou yearnforsomequiettimealone See if you can find a balance between spendingtimewithyourfamilyand timealone
LEO(July23–Aug.22)
Youhaveawarmandsensitive nature, Leo, and today you could be feeling especially tuned in to the feelings of others. Romance is very much on your mind, as are all things sensual.
VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22)
This may be a tricky day, Virgo, as you feel the pull of conflicting demands and desires. On the one hand, you feel obligated to your career and fulfilling the demands of youremployer
LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)
It doesn't seem fair that your workload has increased these last fewdays Nevermindthat youstillhaveallofyournormal tasks to do, your boss expects you to finalize a new budget andwriteaproposalaswell?
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21)
You've been extremely busy these past few months, working extra hours at the office, then going out with friendslateatnight.
SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21)
Expect today's planetary energies to raise your social consciousness, Sagittarius You may be reflecting on your connectiontoandresponsibilities towardhumanity
CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)
Youmaybeaskedtoswallow your pride and give in to someone else's will today, Capricorn This will be difficult for you to do Try to concentrate on your good reasons for obedience, and work out your frustration by takingabriskwalk
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18)
Theplanetaryenergymakesthis a good day for contemplation rather than action, Aquarius If you feel the urge to buy, don't Sleepondecisions
PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20)
Passion and romance are in the air, Pisces, so make the mostofthegreatatmosphere! Everyone seems to be in a festivemood.
With the new quarterfinal date set, the tournament is poised for an electrifying eight-team conclusion on April2.
Springer...
From page 35 the regional stage,Austin is a CARIFTA Games U20 gold and silver medallist and also captured silver at the Youth Commonwealth Games, solidifyinghisstatusasoneof Guyana's brightest sprint prospects.
Adding to Guyana's growing reputation in sprinting is Athaleyha Hinckson,whoisalsomaking waves while competing for LSU.
Hinckson's 7.16s in the 60m ranks as the third-fastest time globally among U20 athletesthisseasonandstands asthefastesteverrecordedby a South American U20 athlete.
She has also shown her versatility in the half-lap event,witha23.46sruninthe 200m, placing her 13th in the worldintheU20category
The trio of Springer, Austin, and Hinckson are all set to spearhead Guyana's campaign at the upcoming CARIFTAGames,afterbeing named among a 24-member squad by the Athletics AssociationofGuyana.
With their current form and rising global rankings, thethreeathletesareexpected to play pivotal roles as Guyana aims for a strong showing at the Easter weekend championships in Grenada.
NBAroundup:PistonshaltLakers'9-gamewinningstreak
Reuters - Daniss Jenkins poured in a career-high 30 points, including four in the final 25 seconds, and the host DetroitPistonsendedtheLos Angeles Lakers' nine-game winning streak with a 113110victoryonMonday Jenkins added eight assists while Jalen Duren contributed 20 points and 11 rebounds in Detroit's fourth straightwin.
The Pistons played without All-Star Cade Cunningham for the third
c o n s e c u t i v e g a m e Cunningham was diagnosed with a collapsed lung last week.
Luka Doncic led the Lakerswith32points.Austin Reaves had 24 points and Deandre Ayton amassed 13 points and 10 rebounds LeBron James finished with 12 points, 10 assists and nine rebounds.
However, the technical was rescinded on Sunday Doncic airballed a contested 3-point tryatthebuzzer
Thunder123,76ers103
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 22 points to guide Oklahoma City to its 12th straight win, a comfortable victoryinPhiladelphia.
JalenWilliamsand Jaylin Williams each added 18 points for Oklahoma City, which shot well from the field (53.3%), the 3-point arc (43.9%) and the foul line (9 of 10) in a smooth all-around performance.
Jared McCain, who was dealt from the Sixers to the Thunder at last month's trade deadline, chipped in with 13 pointsoffthebench.
VJ Edgecombe scored 35 points to pace Philadelphia, which had won four of its previous five games. The
Doncic was eligible to play after the team successfullywonanappealto the league The superstar guard picked up his 16th technical foul on Saturday, triggering an automatic onegame suspension for reaching season limit
Los Angeles Lakers Jake LaRavia (12) defends against Detroit Pistons Daniss Jenkins (24) during the first quarter at Little Caesars Arena. (David Reginek-Imagn Images
(suspension),amongothers.
Pacers128,Magic126
Pascal Siakam scored a season-high 37 points as Indiana ended a franchiserecord 16-game losing streak withavictoryatOrlando.
Jarace Walker chimed in with 20 points as the Pacers won for the first time since Feb. 11, before the All-Star break.AaronNesmithhad19 points--allinthesecondhalf -- while shooting 5 of 8 from 3-point range, and Andrew Nembhard paired 13 points with14assists.
Paolo Banchero poured in a season-best 39 for the Magic, who took their fifth straightdefeat.
Orlando trailed by six with 1:33 to play but had its shot for a tie denied at the buzzerwhenSiakamblocked Banchero'slayupattempt.
Spurs136,Heat111
Victor Wembanyama posted 26 points, 15 rebounds, five blocks and four assists as San Antonio defeatedhostMiami.
It was the sixth straight winfortheSpurswhoare222 since Feb. 1 -- the best recordintheNBAduringthat span.
With Wembanyama playing, the Spurs have won 11 straight games On Monday, he got the most support from Dylan Harper and Keldon Johnson (21 points each off the bench); and Stephon Castle (19 points).
Miami lost its fifth straight game, tying its longest skid of the season. NormanPowellledMiamion Mondaywith21pointswhile
Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herrohad18pointseach.
TheHeatarenowjust1-5 since Adebayo scored 83 points on March 10. Powell, Andrew Wiggins (nine points) and Jaime Jaquez Jr (eight points) all returned frominjuriesfortheHeat,but theyweren'tenough.
Clippers129,Bucks96 KawhiLeonardscored28 points and set a career high for made 3-pointers in a season as Los Angeles returned home with a b l o w o u t w i n o v e r Milwaukee.
Brook Lopez and Kobe Sanders produced 19 points apiece and Darius Garland added 15 points and six assists for the Clippers, who won a second straight game while beginning a run with seven of their last 11 regularseasongamesathome.
The Clippers shot 58% from the floor and 44.7% (17 of 38) from beyond the arc as Leonard set a career high with 149 made 3-pointers for theseason.
Gary Trent Jr scored 20 points, AJ Green had 15 and RyanRollinsadded13forthe Bucks, who fell to 3-11 since Feb 27 Milwaukee was w i t h o u t G i a n n i s Antetokounmpo (knee) for the fourth consecutive game. The Bucks star has played gamessinceJan.27. Inotherresults: Bulls132,Rockets124 Hawks146,Grizzlies107 Raptors143,Jazz127 TrailBlazers134,Nets99 Warriors137,Mavericks131 (Field Level Media)
Sixers continued to play without Tyrese Maxey (finger), Joel Embiid (oblique) and Paul George
Stephen Bamfield makes donation to his former club DCC
S
B
remembered his former club
Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) by donating I-pads cricket bats and pads. The donationwasmaderecently Bamfieldrepresentedthe DCC with pride and dignity during the seventies and early eighties before he migratedtotheUSA.
He scored his only first class century during the Demerara vs Berbice InterCounty finals at the GCC, Bourda in October, 1983 hittinganevenhundred.
He made his senior first class debut for Guyana in 1972. Because of the presence of the late Milton Pydana behind the stumps, Bamfield had to wait until 1986 for a national team recall and he grabbed the opportunity behind and in frontofthestumps.
Bamfield scored his highest regional first class
score, 83, vs the Viv Richards led Leeward IslandsatGCC,Bourda. Amoment of glory came in 1987 for Stephen Bamfield when he played an integral role when the Roger Harper led Guyana team won the Shell Shield. This was his final year in national
colours and the DCC star wentoutinglory
Statistician Charwayne Walker informed that now in 2026 Stephen Bamfield remembered where it all started by humbly giving to the future up and coming youngsters of the club to learn the trade.Among those
Stephen Bamfield behind the stumps during a game at the GCC, Bourda against the Leeward Islands.
present were DCC legend and ex-executive Mark Harper and former national U
allrounderRobinKendall.
s extremelyproudthatanother D C C p
, a wicketkeeper/batsman like himself, Tevin Imlach, is the national captain that led the Guyana Harpy Eagles to back to back regional first class championships and is the present West Indies wicketkeeper/batsman. His message to the DCC youths, is keep pursuing your academic career while playingsports.
GGA ramps up CSEC Golf Efforts GGA in Region 1 & 2 Secondary Schools
The Guyana Golf
A s s o c i a t i o n
( G G A ) , i n collaboration with Nexgen Golf Academy and Westside Golf Course, continues its nationwide initiative to make golf more accessible to secondary school students, witharecentfocusonRegions 1and2.
As part of this ongoing effort, golf equipment and balls were donated to support the development of school programmesintheseregions.
Recent Cyril Potter
community from the previous years; more schools are rapidly hopping on board and taking the sport seriously by virtue of the Physical Education curriculum which isamajorfacetacrossschools' CSECprogramme.
Meanwhile, Nexgen Golf Academy and Westside Golf Course have intensified their preparation efforts for the 2026CSECexaminations.
College of Education graduates, Sir Whem France and Ms. Veron John, who r e c e n t l y c o m p l e t e d specializedtrainingatNexgen GolfAcademy were equipped with the necessary tools to introduce and sustain golf programmes within their respective schools, ensuring readiness for both the CSEC
P h y s i c a l E d u c a t i o n curriculum and the upcoming National Junior Golf Championship.
Speaking with Kaieteur Sports on Tuesday, GGA president Aleem Hussain said the sport has been growing quicklyacrossalllevelsofthe academicdiaspora.
Hussain believed that due to the success which the GGA has managed to extract from within Guyana's learning
Students from several schools such as Berbice Educational Institute, Bush Lot Secondary School, Hope Secondary School, Queen's College, Westminster Secondary School, and Tucville Secondary School have been participating in intensive final prep training sessions led by Aleem Hussain (Master Coach) and Philip Haynes (LPGA Girls Site Director) at Nexgen Golf Academy.
With growing interest and participation, it is anticipated that more than 250 students will select golf as their CSEC PhysicalEducationelectivein 2026.
Guyana continues to lead the Caribbean in youth golf development, driven by the sustained and collaborative efforts of the Guyana Golf Association, Nexgen Golf Academy, and Westside Golf Course.
Georgetown Zone of Guinness 'Greatest of the Streets ‘to resume on April
8
The Georgetown zone of the popular Guinness 'Greatest of the Streets' streetball competition is set to resume on April 8 at the Cultural Centre Tarmac, as organisers move to conclude t
following an extended pause tocompetition.
e competition will restart in a direct elimination format, featuring 32 teams for the Georgetown leg. Interested teams are encouraged to register early by contacting 694-2915 t
e participation in the limited slotsavailable.
While details regarding the prize structure are yet to be finalised, the resumption marks the return of one of Guyana's premier street footballcompetitions,widely recognised for its highenergy, knockout-style format.
F
o n
h e Georgetown zone and the national championships, organisers are expected to proceed with the official launchofthe2026season.
Defending champions Laing Avenue are slated to return as they aim to successfullydefendtheirtitle when action resumes. The Georgetown zone will serve to complete the unfinished portion of last year's tournament before attention shifts to the national championships.
Students in Region 1 & 2 continued their golf preparations yesterday ahead of the CSEC 2026.
Mikaela Shiffrin of the U.S. in action.
(Cornelius Poppe/NTB via REUTERS)
LILLEHAMMER, Norway, (Reuters) - U.S.
Alpine ski great Mikaela Shiffrinstoodonthebrinkof a record-equalling sixth overall women's World Cup title on Tuesday after winning the slalom of the seasoninNorway
Thecommandingvictory in Hafjell was a recordextending 110th of the 31y e a r - o l d O l y m p i c champion's World Cup career and a record ninth slalom win in 10 races this season.
Shiffrin moved 85 points clear of German rival Emma Aicher overall, with only 100 points remaining to be won from Wednesday's final giant slalom in the resort near 1994 Olympic venue Lillehammer
The American had already clinched the slalom World Cup title for a record ninth time and another Overall Globe would equal
Shiffrin on brink of overall World Cup title after record slalom win
for a long time and I'm gratefulforit."
Shiffrin said she was ready for one last push against a 22-year-old rival she also considered a friend who had pushed her all the way
The overall title is decided by points from all four disciplines -- with Aicher an all-rounder while Shiffrin does not do downhill and has competed in only a few of the super-Gs to gain whatever points she can.
The standings mean Shiffrin, whose last overall titlewasin2023,willbesure of the biggest Crystal Globe if she finishes in the top 15 on Wednesday or Aicher failstowin."I'msoexcitedto watch what she does in the future," said the American. "For now we have one more racetodecidethisone.”
the women's record six that Austrian Annemarie MoserProell has held since the 1970s.
Shiffrin was fastest by 1.10 seconds in the first leg and finished 1.32 clear of Switzerland's Wendy Holdener with Aicher completing the podium after moving up from fourth after thefirstrun.
"I think this is just a symbol of the work that my team has been putting in and all the support I've had these years," said Shiffrin, after liftingalofttheslalomGlobe atthefinisharea.
"Especially,thelastthree yearstobacktothechanceto be that high level and to win aglobe.
"This season has been so exciting, quite like a whirlwind with all the wonderful races that we had and with the Olympics and with everything. It's been really pushing at a high level
Lukaku drops out of Belgium's World Cup warm-ups
BRUSSELS, (Reuters)Belgium's top scorer Romelu Lukaku has withdrawn from their trip to the U.S. this and will miss World Cup warmup matches in Atlanta and Chicago.
The 32-year-old Lukaku, who has netted a record 89 goals in 124 internationals, has elected to work on his fitness and will skip Saturday's clash against the U.S. and another friendly againstMexico.
“Romelu prefers to train
inthecomingperiodwiththe aim of further optimising his physical , ” the Belgian FootballAssociationsaidina statementonTuesday Lukaku has struggled with injury this season and played only sparingly for his clubNapoli.
His last game for his country was a 4-3 win over
Wales in World Cup qualifying in Brussels in June, in which he scored. He missed Belgium's next six internationals.
Birla, Blitzer, Blackstone, Times of India consortium
(Reuters) -Aconsortium comprising Aditya Birla Group,TimesofIndiaGroup,
B o l t Ve n t u r e s , a n d Blackstone (BX.N), opens new tab said on Tuesday it would acquire Indian Premier League franchise
R
C
Bengaluru for $1.78 billion, ending a weeks-long bidding
. The seller United Spirits, the Indian arm of UK-based d
(DGE.L), opens new tab, launched a strategic review of its 100% holding of the
Bengaluru franchise in November, labelling the team "non-core" to its primaryalcoholbusiness.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru's continentspanning bidding war had drawn interest from global private equity firms KKR and Blackstone, Indian tycoons Adar Poonawalla, CEO of vaccine maker Serum Institute of India and Manipal Education and Medical Group chairman Ranjan Pai, as well as Manchester United cochairmanAvramGlazer
The Indian Premier League, the world's richest cricket league, counts Bollywood stars and Indian tycoons among its backers but is now attracting major private equity firms with the prospect of rapidly rising revenue and profits and massiveviewershipglobally
Rajasthan Royals, majority owned by London-
based venture capitalist Manoj Badale, is also in a separatesaleprocess.
Key factors driving investorinterestintheleague are a doubling in the value of broadcast rights to more than $6 billion in the most recent auction in 2022, rising franchise revenues and the Indian cricket board BCCI's pooled revenue-sharing modelthatbolstersrevenues.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru's acquisition encompasses both the men's IPL franchise and the Women's Premier League f r a n c h i s e a n d i s subject to customary closin
Control for Cricket in India and the Competition CommissionofIndia.
Theteam,oneoftheIPL's eight original franchises, won its first men's title in 2025 after 17 years in the
league, with star batsman Virat Kohli, one of cricket's biggest draws, at the heart of theteam.
The franchise reported revenue of $56 million for 2024-25,a73%increaseover athree-yearperiod.
The consortium brings togetherIndianmultinational conglomerate Aditya Birla Group, Times of India Group, which operates cricket platform Cricbuzz, billionaire David Blitzer's family office Bolt Ventures, a n d a s s e t m a n a g e r BlackstoneGroup.
Reuters first reported in February that Blitzer was eyeing a majority stake in an Indian Premier League cricketteam.
Aditya Birla Group Director Aryaman Vikram Birla will serve as chairman of the franchise while Satyan Gajwani of Times of India Group will serve as vice chairman.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru players celebrate with the trophy after winning the Indian Premier League. (REUTERS/Amit Dave/File Photo)
Springer, Austin among World's fastest U20 400m athletes
By Rawle Toney
Guyana'srisingtrackand field stars continue to stamp their authority on the international stage, with Tianna Springer and Malachi Austin emerging among the world's elite U20 400m athletes, according to the latest World Athletics rankings.
Springer, an 18-year-old standout competing for the University of Georgia, currently holds the secondfastest time in the world in the U20 women's 400m this season.
Her impressive run of 52.31 seconds in February places her just behind N i g e r i a ' s C h i o m a Nwachukwu, who leads the global list with 51 67 seconds.
K n o w n f o r h e r dominance at the CARIFTA Games, Springer is now translating that regional success onto the NCAA DivisionOnecircuit.
As she prepares to defend her unbeaten 400m streak at next month's CARIFTA Games in Grenada, expectations are high that she will once again leadGuyana'scharge.
Meanwhile, Austin has firmly established himself among the top U20 male 400mathletes,globally Th e f r es h man at Louisiana State University clocked a blistering 45.37 seconds to win the LSU Opener, a performance that not only marked a personal best but also set a South AmericanU20record.
Six teams to feature at Reliance Hustlers Sports Club annual Easter Sunday T10 Blast
Six teams will be featuring at this year's annual Reliance Hustlers Sports Club Easter Sunday T10 Blast at Reliance Sports ground, Essequibo Coast, Region 2 (PomeroonSupenaam).
The action is slated to commence at 10:00 am with the one semi-final and final to be played under-lights usingpinkballs.
The day's event is proudly sponsored by GuyanaBreweriesunderthe 592brand(Beer).
It will be a knockout competition with the winning team set to collect a trophy and $150,000 while the runners-up side taking homeatrophyand$75,000.
Atrophy will be given to player-of-the-match in every game while MVP in the championship fixture will pocket cash incentive alongwithatrophy
The participating teams are: Reliance Hustlers Sports Club, Renegades North, Rising Stars, Renegades South, Evolution andYoungAchievers.
Organizer of the event Trevis Simon stated that he is 'excited' to run off another edition (6) of this Easter Festival cricket one-day tournament.
Austin's time places him among the top five U20 athletes in the world, in elite company alongside Quincy Wilson (45 37s), Jayden Horton-Mims (45.36s), Sidi Njie (45 36s), Jonathan Ofori (45 33s), and JohnathanSimms,wholeads the global list with 44.62 seconds.
Significantly, Austin's
45.37 seconds also ranks him25thintheworldamong all senior 400m athletes, underliningthemagnitudeof his achievement at such a young age. His outstanding performance earned him the SEC Runner of the Week a c c o l a d e f r o m t h e SoutheasternConference. A proven performer on (Continued on page 29)
He expressed his appreciation to the teams in anticipation for their continued participation and echoedsimilarsentimentsto Guyana Breweries (592) for theircommitmentagain. Simon, who is also the Captain of the hosts, informed that Barbecue will be on sale for $1800 and music entertainment will be provided by DJ Vick in collaboration with Hustlers Sounds. Additionally, there will be live ball-by-ball commentary Simon mentioned funds raised will go towards the club's academy and also for Hustlers' forthcoming tour of Trinidad and Tobago in May
Malachi Austin has been making an impact at LSU.
Trevis Simon
Malachi Austin has been making an impact at LSU.
Tianna Springer has one of the top 400m indoor times for the University of Georgia.
