ceasefire
- Trump says Iran may meet U.S. at weekend
Stage set for Chinese acrobatic show
video on cost-of-living Govt. cracks down - amid delays, offers 10% return
…assaultwoman, robfamily
...moves to tighten disability claims
‘U.S.ENVOYUNDERFIRE’ Govt. seeks investors for Wales gas project - Mohameds’ U.S. lawyer warns ambassador over “prejudicial” comments in extradition case
WASHINGTON, April 16 (Reuters) - A 10-day ceasefire between Lebanon andIsraelwentintoeffecton Thursday and President Donald Trump said the next meeting between the United States and Iran may take place over the weekend, adding to optimism that the Iranwarcouldbenearingan end.
Trump said Iran had offered to have nuclear weapons for more than 20 years Tehran’s nuclear ambitions were a sticking point at talks in Islamabad lastweekend.
“We’regoingtoseewhat happens. But I think we’re very close to making a deal with Iran,” he told reporters outsidetheWhiteHouse.
ThewarwithIran,which beganonFebruary28witha U.S.-Israeliattack,haskilled thousandsandsentoilprices surging, creating a major political headache for the U.S.president.
If the Lebanon ceasefire clears the way for a broader peacedealwithIran,itwould be a significant win for the
Trump administration, whichhasstruggledsofarto reopen the strategically important Strait of Hormuz and block Iran’s path to a nuclearweapon.
Celebratory gunfire rang out across parts of Beirut early on Friday as the clock struckmidnight,thetimethe ceasefire was set to go into effect. For around half an hour, the booms of rockets that were also fired in celebration could be heard.
“I think we have a chance,”
Trump said, referring to a potential deal with Iran
“And if that happens, oil goes way down, prices go way down, inflation goes waydown,and muchmore importantly than even that, you won’t have a nuclear holocaust.”
Thepresidentsaidhewas not sure a two-week ceasefire agreed with Iran last week would need to be extendedbeyondnextweek, and added that Tehran wantedtomakeadeal.
“We have a very good relationship with Iran right now, as hard as it is to
believe. And I think it’s a combination of about four weeks of bombing, and a verypowerfulblockade.”
Smoke rises following an Israeli strike in Nabatieh, Lebanon.
At last weekend’s talks, the U.S. proposed a 20-year suspension of all nuclear activitybyIran-anapparent c o n c e s s i o n f r o m longstanding demands for a permanent ban Tehran suggested a halt of three to five years, according to people familiar with the proposals.
Washington has pressed for any highly enriched uranium (HEU) to be removed from Iran. Tehran has demanded that international sanctions against it be lifted. Two Iranian sources said there were signs of a compromise emerging on the HEU stockpile, with Tehran considering shipping part, but not all, of it out of the country, something it had previously ruled out. The Lebanon ceasefire was aimed at halting a conflict between Israel and the Iranaligned Lebanese group Hezbollahthatwasreignited by the U S -Israeli war againstIran.
Trump said he had held “excellent” with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and planned to invite them both
to the White House for “meaningful talks”. He said later that the White House meeting could take place over the next week or two, and that if an Iran deal was reached and signed in Islamabad, he might go for that. Trump said he had directed U.S. Vice President JDVance,SecretaryofState Marco Rubio and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine to work with Israel and Lebanon to achieve lasting peace. Iran welcomed the ceasefire in Lebanon, saying it was part of an understanding reached with the United States and mediated by Pakistan, Iranian media reported, citing a statement by a F o r e i g n M i n i s t r y spokesperson. The war with Iran spilt into Lebanon on March 2, when Hezbollah opened fire in support of Tehran,promptinganIsraeli offensive in Lebanon 15 months after the last major conflict.
Closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of the world’s oil and gassupplyflows,hascaused the worst oil price shock in history and forced the
InternationalMonetaryFund todowngradeitsoutlookfor theglobaleconomy,warning prolonged conflict could pushtheworldtothebrinkof recession.
Adiplomaticsourcesaid the key Pakistani mediator, Army chief Asim Munir, arrived in Tehran on Wednesday and had made a ‘breakthrough on “sticky issues”,althoughTehransaid the fate of its nuclear program had not been resolved.Trumphassaidthe accordwouldopentheStrait ofHormuz.
A senior Iranian official toldReutersthatMunir’strip hadledtogreaterhopesfora secondroundoftalksandan extension of the ceasefire, but said fundamental differences remain over the nuclear programme U S Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said troops were poised to restart combat operations if a deal was not reached.
A Pakistani security source told Reuters Washington was offering to lift sanctions and unfreeze billions of dollars’ worth of Iranian assets to secure a deal.
However, the source added that Iran would open thestraitonlyifapermanent ceasefireisreachedandthere are United Nations guarantees that the U.S. and Israelwillnotattackagainin future. “We hope that the field marshal will have a draft in his hand when he flies out of Tehran,” the sourcesaid.
A canteen operator has been ordered to vacate her space at the Woolford Avenue complex of the C e n t r a l I s l a m i c Organization of Guyana just days after posting a “humorous” TikTok video referencingtherisingcostof livingunderPresidentIrfaan Ali. Farha Najab, who has operatedthecanteenforfive years, told Kaieteur News she suspects the abrupt eviction notice may be retaliation, noting that no explanationwasprovidedby CIOG as to why she must vacatefromthecanteenonor beforeApril30,2026.
Thewomanexplainedto thispublicationthataftershe madethevideoandpostedit on Monday afternoon, on Tuesday her husband received a call from an officialoftheMuslimYouth Organisation which is next door to CIOG, pertaining to thevideo.
“One of the officials expressed to my husband that the video, that I posted was not funny and it was disrespectful.Hedidnotsay takeitdown,heinsinuatedto thepointthatIshouldtakeit down. So, my husband did expresstohimthatitwasfor humor purposes, it was not attacking anybody personally because most of what was said was quite unrealistic,”thewomansaid.
The letter issued by the Central Islamic Organization of Guyana (CIOG) to the canteen operator on Wednesday.
year. She was told they wouldgetbacktoher.
“When she called me Wednesdaymorningthatshe wanted to see me, I immediately thought it was for us to go through the contract and do the signing up. Now I went in and she handed me the letter and the letter was very vague, very short Your contract was expired and as such you are askedtovacatethepremises and hand over CIOG’s h property on or before 30 April,”sherelated.
manytimesIvisitedthestaff, I expressed to him my proactiveeffortstoacquiring his contact information and get my contract done for the past three months into the year. So he emailed back very concise to say that the CIOG is not looking to renew contract at this momentandthatwasit.”
S h e r e c a l l e d o n Wednesday morning that while operating the canteen she received a call from a staff from CIOG’sAccounts Department and they asked to see her The canteen operator stated that after the rush hour that morning she then went to the staff and there she was handed the letter, which was signed by PresidentofCIOG. Najab explained that she thought she was called in relationtoherapplicationfor renewing her contract but thiswasnotthecase.
expired in December 2025 and since then she has been constantly going to their office to renew the contract.
Having been operating the canteen for some five years, Najab said that her contract with CIOG was
The reason for the delay she was told is that the General Manager had resigned, so there was no one in the position that would sign off onherdocuments.
The woman noted that after the canteen was not operating during Ramadan
and then the Easter school break,whenclassesresumed on Monday she reached out back to them regarding the contract since three months have passed into the new
Najabsaidshethenasked foracontactinformationfor the CIOG’s President regarding the letter and to provide an explanation Having contacted him via email,shesaid,“Iexpressed to him the eagerness for me to renew my contract, how
She noted that she even tried to appeal to him that if there is any leniency that could be given in timeframe for the vacation because she isamotheroffiveandwould have invested a load of moneytorestockthecanteen because school would have startedafewdaysago.
Najab said having been operatingthecanteenforfive years, she has been close withCIOGforsome11years
Continued on page 6
PrintedandPublishedbyNationalMedia& PublishingCompanyLtd. 24SaffonStreet, Charlestown,Georgetown,Guyana.
Publisher:GLENNLALL-TEL:624-6456
Editor:NIGELWILLIAMS
Tel:225-8465,225-8491. Fax:225-8473,226-8210
Likeawildfire,aflickerbecameaflamealmostinstantly Thankfully,itwasnotarealfire,butthefearfulheatofgetting stranded without fuel in the tank, without some full spare container tucked away. Can this be happening in a country thatrecordsdailyproductionlevelsof900,000barrelsofoil? Fromgasstationtogasstation,thelineswerethere,andifany proof was needed, there was plenty.All it took was the fear about a potential shortage of fuel, and that sent Guyanese hurrying to join long lines and sudden fuel rationing from DemeraratoBerbice,andalmosteverywhereelse.
SixyearsafterFirstOilrolledawayinthetankers,reports arethatPresidentAliisthinkingofTrinidadandTobago'soil refineries that have idle capacity, and could use some businessfromnextdoorGuyana. Weatthispaperthinkthat fromthemomentthatFirstOilbecamearealitythatGuyana's oilliftshadtohaveTrinidadasadestination.
Transport mileage significantly cut, refineries available, expertise in the region tapped, and the spirit of CARICOM aliveandonthemove. Wethinkthatwhatissurfacingnow oughttohavebeenamovemadeyearsago,ifonlyforthecost savings, and the comfort of a refining market just a stone's throwaway,andspreadingthewealthamongourownpeople. Tensions and bottlenecks market instability and supply constraintsandlogisticalchainswouldmostlyhavebeenthe concernsofothercountries.
The political games that are played in this region, the partnerships that are spoken of (when there is some leadership convenience incorporated), have a way of harminginsteadofhelping. Thelongandangeringfuellines yesterday that snaked across many parts of Guyana provide evidence of how shortsighted politicians can be. How they can be the worst nightmare of their own citizens, their once respected,oncehelpful,neighbors. Paybackandstickingit toneighborsareundergoingachangeofvision,andreaching for refinery linkages, that should have been part of a wellestablishedplankinGuyana'sownsupplychainandreserves, andthatofothersintheregion.
Now in the crunch of circumstances, the embarrassing uglinessoflonglinesforgasolineseeminglyeverywhere,in this country of all places, there followed the usual kneejerk reaction. PresidentAlispringsintoaction,summonsahighpowered meeting, in his ongoing love for dramatic action, and relief is promised by importers called upon to provide answers. Withmorecarsandtrucksandbusinessvehicleson the roads, and in their ever-increasing numbers, the hope is thatMonday'sfuelcrowdsarenotrepeated.
Theenvironmentisnotencouraging,withmatterspoised onaknife'sedgeintheStraitofHormuz. Onemisjudgment, onemisstep,byanyofthecombatantsandMondaywouldbe likeaSundaywithoutacareoragasolineline. Theconcernis thatitmaynotbejustforaday,butpartofthatpatternthatis wovenintoGuyana'shistoryandthepsycheofitscitizens. If thereisonethingthattheyknowwell,toowell,ishavingto lineupandwaititoutformanybasicitemsoflife,ofwhich fuelwasonlyone.
The watch is now on for what the public transportation operators (taxis and minibuses) will do as part of their defensiveorexploitativereaction. Itisalmostsecondnature inthisdog-eat-dogcountryforonesegmentofGuyaneseto takeadvantageofotherGuyanese. Commuterswhodepend on public transportation could be in for a stress-filled time, both in the pocket and how they are going to get from one placetoanother,especiallytoworkandschool,thenbackto theirhomes.
Time will be the best judge of how short-lived the lines are, and for how long any gouging of helpless commuters extend.It is worrying how within minutes Guyanese went frombeingtrafficsnarledtobeingtrappedinlinesacrossthe country Leadersmustcomeoutofthecloudsandgettheir feetontheground. Ceaseplayingpolitics,startworkingto serveGuyanesebetter Makethebestuseofthisoilwealth, withthepracticalandcomforting.
DearEditor, Therehasbeenextensive media coverage of the growingfalloutbetweenIran and the United States over one of the most strategically important waterways on earth, the Strait of Hormuz. Thischannelallowsabout20 millionbarrelsofoilperday to pass through an approximately 34 kilometer waterway at its narrowest point to key energy markets across the globe Major producers rely on this route for energy trade, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait, accounting for roughly20percentofglobal supply The conflict has recently escalated into the blocking of this channel by Iranianauthorities.
The evidence suggests that even before the current situation, a number of countries started to align themselves to secure their economies against potential supply shocks that may result from geopolitical conflicts such as the one currentlyunfolding.
In2021,IranandChina, the largest energy importer intheworld,signeda25year strategic cooperation arrangement which would see Iran providing China with discounted oil supplies whileChinaagreedtoinvest almost 400 billion dollars in
Iran'senergyandtechnology infrastructure The agreement also sees China absorbingcloseto90percent ofIranianexports.
I n d i a h a s b e e n diversifying its energy sources by importing liquid petroleum gas from the United States to reduce reliance on Gulf supplies.
Countries such as Bangladesh, Vietnam, and Thailand have been investing in remote working and mass transit to reduce energydemand.
International response to this conflict has seen the InternationalEnergyAgency agreeing to release 400 millionbarrelsofoilfromits emergencystockpile.
The United States confirmed that it would release 172 million barrels from its Strategic Petroleum Reserve, while France indicateditwouldcontribute another14.5millionbarrels. While these interventions may cushion global supply disruptions, these reserves arenotinfinite.
Oil producing nations are strengthening efforts to position themselves as energy independent economies Saudi Arabia presents a strong example through supply chain diversification, financial tools, and geopolitical
diplomacy, strategies that Guyanacanadapt.
Guyana is positioned to pursuediscountedoilsupply arrangements to grow its petroleumreserves. A negotiated portion of production being refined abroad and returned is feas
of petroleum products daily This includes gasoline, diesel, and industrial fuels. Consumption is rising rapidly
With growing demand, thereisincreasingurgencyto reconsidertheroleofalocal oil refinery, even on a modularscale.
's 1954
Consortium Agreement reflects similar principles. Modern swap mechanisms, such as South Korea's program, could also be explored.
These arrangements would allow Guyana to retain part of its crude oil as refinedproduct.
However, refined oil has limited storage life and
arrangement must ensure consistent long term supply aligned with local demand.
The Government of Guyana has reportedly engaged international companies r e g a r d i n g
g y infrastructure including storagefacilities.
Guyana faces an energy paradox. Despite producing over 900000 barrels of oil per day, the country has not captured value from local refiningandstillexperiences supply shocks In 2024, G u y a n a c o n s u m e d approximately27000barrels
DearEditor, I write to underscore the urgent need for a domestic oil refinery in Guyana Recent developments have
vulnerability that cannot be
temporarymeasures.
Guyana is a growing oil producer but remains dependent on external
refining This creates economic inefficiency and national vulnerability Globalinstabilitycandisrupt supply chains and threaten
T
e Government's response to gasoline supply concerns was necessary but does not address the core issue Dependence on imports exposes Guyana to market
volatility and limits long term planning.Engagement with regional partners may provide temporary relief but shouldnotreplaceanational policyfordomesticrefining. AGuyanabasedrefinery would strengthen energy security, support economic transformation, and position the country as a regional energyhub.TheGovernment
Fuelscarcityatthepump highlights the need for a domestic supply base. As a major oil producer, Guyana should not face the same supply vulnerabilities as othercountries.
The International Monetary Fund has warned of global recession risks if such conflicts persist, especially with oil prices above100dollarsperbarrel. Evenifresolved,underlying risksremain.
Guyana must urgently strengthen energy security strategiesandsupportenergy transitionpolicies,including electricvehicleadoption.
Guyana's policies to reduce reliance on fossil fuels may require increased resources and faster implementation. At the same time, expanding oil production presents an opportunity to strengthen energy security through re
arrangements.
CliveWilliams
discussion and commit to
investment, and policy development.
Guyana's oil wealth p
opportunity to build a resilient and self sufficient energysystem.
Yoursrespectfully, Dr.TilokieDepoo
DearEditor,
When Home Affairs
Minister Oneidge Walrond launched her now-infamous crackdown on tinted vehicles, she stood before the nation and told us what was meant to be a defining line in law enforcement reform:
"Don't call me " No favours, no phone calls to "big ones." No exceptions for the well-connected. The eraofselectiveenforcement, shepromised,wasover
But Guyanese citizens are now left asking — did shemeanawordofit?
Because for days, social mediahasbeenfloodedwith footage showing a government-issued pickup a multimillion-dollar taxpayer-funded vehicle — being hauled from a trench. The incident reportedly followed a night out, and according to multiple accounts, the driver was none other than Minister Walrond's own son The videos show laughter and levity where accountability shouldhavebeen.
And what has been the officialresponse?Silence.
Not a word from the Ministry of Home Affairs. Not a statement from the police hierarchy, which operatesunderherauthority
N o t e v e n a n acknowledgment from the Minister herself — despite journalists having put the question directly to her within the same Police MediaGroupsheoversees.
If it were an ordinary citizen caught recklessly misusingpublicproperty,the Minister's tint-crackdown
swagger would have reappeared in full force
There would be arrests, charges,andpublicshaming. Instead, the institutions that exist to enforce standards seem paralyzed under proximitytopower
Thisisnotjusthypocrisy
it is a constitutional distortion The police, reportedly instructed to step back when she appeared at thescene,raisethetroubling specter of executive interference.
“When the official responsibleforlawandorder bends those laws for personal convenience, Guyana's democratic institutions suffer a wound fardeeperthananytrench."
So yes, let's address this anomaly this glaring betrayal of the "One Guyana" promise The Minister of Home Affairs cannot credibly lead a ministry dedicated to impartial justice while selectively shielding her ownfamily
The standards she demands of the public must extendtoherhousehold. Whenitcomestofamily, friends, and favourites, it seemstheMinistryofHome Affairs has one unwritten rule:silenceisthepolicy Reports identify the driver as the Home Affairs Minister's son, allegedly after leaving a nightclub. What followed was not transparency, but a wall of silence thick enough to hide ascandal.
Thatsilenceraisesurgent questions of public accountability: Why was the Minister's son driving a vehicle that belongs to the Government of Guyana? These are not personaltoysforfamilyuse. They are state assets
entrusted to public servants, notfamilychaperones.
Was a breathalyzer test administeredatthescene?If so, what were the results? If not,whywasstandardpolice procedure ignored — and wouldanyothercitizenhave been afforded such indulgence?
Was the driver detained ortakentothenearestpolice
station as procedure demands?
And why have basic questions from journalists inside the Police Media Group—theMinister'sown forum—goneunanswered?
Itisdifficulttoavoidthe stench of double standards. Thesamewomanwhospent the past year lecturing the public about responsibility, r o a d s a f e t y, a n d accountability has gone mute when those principles touchherowndoorstep.
Lastyear,atthelaunchof Road Safety Month, Minister Walrond warned against "carelessness, speed anddistraction"andpledged that even a single death causedbyadrunkdriverwas "one too many." She later stood beside a grieving mother at an event for victims of road accidents, hervoicethickwithempathy asshespokeof"tragedieswe havethepowertoprevent."
In December, she t h u n d e r e d a b o u t transparency, promising to bringanendtothe"selective practicesofthepast."
Today, those very words have returned to challenge
hercredibility
By allegedly interfering in the crash scene and remaining silent while the police hold their breath, she has done exactly what she accused others of doing — bending the law for convenienceandprivilege.
This is not merely a matter of optics. It is a question of integrity and constitutionalethics.
When the Minister responsibleforlawandorder fails to submit herself and her family to the same standardssheismandatedto apply to ordinary citizens, sheundermineseverypolice officer, every prosecutor, and every citizen who still believes in equal justice underlaw
Noministercancredibly lead a portfolio dedicated to "safe, transparent, and enforceable" governance while embodying the opposite.
The time for silence has passed Minister Oneidge Walrond must go — not becauseof thecirculationof a video, but because she has forfeitedthemoralauthority tolead.
The people's desire is clear: Guyana deserves a Home Affairs Minister who serves the law, not one who bendsit.
Ifshecannotupholdthat principle, the honorable course is clear: Minister Oneidge Walrond must step down.
Sincerely
HemduttKumar
DearEditor,
ItisestimatedthatExxon's global effective tax rate ranges between 20 percent and 30 percent, with a reported 33 percent average over the past three years.
Guyana should establish a corporatetaxratealignedwith these figures without reliance ontaxwaiversorcredits.
CRG believes this would address tax leakage while maintaining a balanced r
a
r partnership should benefit both parties over the long term.
If Exxon does not engage
partnerships should be pursued to secure the sector's future.
Bestregards, MrJamilChanglee
Chairman T
w i t h ExxonMobil. If renegotiation isnotpossible,Guyanashould explore partnerships with othercompaniessuchasBP Reconsideration does not meanbreachingcontracts,but reassessing preferential arrangements A
RepublicansofGuyana
B A M E N D A ,
Cameroon, April 16 (Reuters)-PopeLeoblasted leaders who spend billions on wars and said the world was "being ravaged by a handful of tyrants", in unusually forceful remarks onThursday,daysafterU.S. President Donald Trump attacked him on social media.
Leo, the first U.S. pope, also decried leaders who used religious language to justify wars and urged a "decisive change of course" in a meeting in the biggest city in Cameroon's anglophoneregions,wherea simmering conflict going backnearlyadecadehasleft thousandsdead.
"The masters of war pretend not to know that it takes only a moment to destroy, yet often a lifetime isnotenoughtorebuild,"the pontiffsaid.
"Theyturnablindeyeto the fact that billions of dollars are spent on killing and devastation, yet the resources needed for healing, education and
restorationarenowheretobe found."
'A
Trump's attacks on Leo, first launched on the eve of the pope's ambitious fourcountry tour of Africa and repeated late Tuesday, have caused dismay in Africa, where more than a fifth of theworld'sCatholicslive.
Leo, who kept a relatively low profile for most of his first year as leader of the 1.4-billionmember Church, has emerged as an outspoken critic of the war that began with U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran.
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally, spiritualleaderof85million Anglicans worldwide, said on Thursday that she stood with the pope in his "courageous call for a kingdom of peace"
Speaking in the anglophone city of Bamenda, the pontiff also sharply criticised leaders who invoked religious themes to justify wars.
Pope Leo XIV holds a holy Mass for peace and justice at Bamenda airport in Bamenda, Cameroon
"Woe to those who manipulate religion and the very name of God for their own military, economic and political gain, dragging that whichissacredintodarkness andfilth,"hesaid.
"It is a world turned upsidedown,anexploitation of God's creation that must be denounced and rejected byeveryhonestconscience." The pope made similar remarks last month, saying God rejected prayers from leaders with "hands full of blood", in comments widely interpreted as aimed at U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who has invoked Christianlanguagetojustify theIranwar
Trump began his criticism of Leo on Sunday, when he called the pope "WEAK on Crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy" inapostonTruthSocial.
The U S president attackedLeoagainonsocial media on Tuesday On WednesdayTrumppostedan image of Jesus embracing
Monday that he would not stop speaking out about the Iran war and has avoided responding to Trump directlysincethen.
THREE-DAY
CEASEFIREDURING VISIT
Trump,afteranearlierimage hepostedthatportrayedhim as a Jesus-like figure prompted widespread criticism.
Leo told Reuters on
After arriving in the Cameroon capital Yaounde on Wednesday, Leo urged the government of the Central African nation - led byPresidentPaulBiya,at93 the world's oldest ruler - to rootoutcorruptionandresist "the whims of the rich and powerful".
During a Mass at the airport in Bamenda on Thursday, attended by around 20,000 people, the
pope criticised foreigners who exploited Africa's wealth, saying they were contributing to widespread p o v e r t y a n d underdevelopment.
“The time has come, today and not tomorrow, nowandnotinthefuture,to restore the mosaic of unity by bringing together the diversity and riches of the country and the continent," he said Leo's trip on Thursday to Bamenda has stirred faint hope that steps mightbetakentoresolvethe conflict there, rooted in the country's complex colonial andpost-colonialhistory Cameroon, a former (Continuedonpage9)
Frompage3 andoverthoseyearsshehasalwayshada goodrelationshipwiththem.
The canteen she has been operating alongsideherhusbandisthemainsourceof incomeforthemtoprovidefortheirfamily.
Withnoexplanationforthesuddenletter, the woman said she could only suspect it stemmed from the Tik Tok video she did, whichshehassincedeleted.
“We had good communication for the past five and a half years, this is so sudden, thisissoabrupt.Ihaveneverfeltvictimized byCIOG,becauseIhavebeeninthesystem of CIOG even before I got the snackette. I wasateacherandIhaveworkedintheoffice. So this came as a surprised for me,” she expressed.
Feeling overwhelmed about the situation, she told Kaieteur News that “All that I wanted from them is some amount of leniency in the timeframe given and some amount of explanation. Let me know If I
have done something that has caused this action.”
Opposition Leader,Azruddin Mohamed who went to the canteen and learned about thesituationinavideoexpressedthatthisis aninjusticeandhassinceexpressedthatthis is an injustice. His party, the We Invest in Nationhood(WIN)inastatementexpressed “grave concern over the PPPGovernment’s continuedpatternoftargetingandpunishing citizensforexpressingpoliticaldissent.”
“In any democracy, individuals must be freetospeak,critique,andsharetheirviews without fear of retaliation or loss of livelihood. The use of state influence and affiliated institutions to silence opposing voices is a dangerous abuse of power that undermines the fundamental rights of all Guyanese,”thepartycontinued.
WIN further called for this to cease immediately and for all citizens to be allowed to speak freely without fear of victimizationorlossoflivelihood.
—
“prejudicial”
A United States (US) based attorney representing sanctioned Guyanese businessmen Azruddin Mohamed, and his father Nazar Mohamed, has written to US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, cautioning against public comments amid the ongoing extradition proceedings before the localcourts.
InaletterdatedApril15,2026, Peter A Quinter, a Florida Bar Board Certified attorney in International Law, raised concerns that recent statements made by the ambassador may be inappropriate giventhematterremainssubjudice inGuyana.
“Ithascometomyattentionthat your recent public statements regarding my clients above on a topic that remains pending in the courts of Guyana may not be appropriate for someone in your position,”Quinterwrote.
The lawyer argued that as a
diplomat, the ambassador is obligated under international conventions to respect the legal processes of the host country and avoid commentary that could be seen as influencing judicial proceedings “As the U S AmbassadortoGuyana,itmaynot be proper to make inaccurate comments regarding pending legal mattersregardingmyclientsinthe courtsinGuyana,”hestated.Tothis end, he referenced the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations,citingthatasadiplomat, there is a duty to respect the laws andcustomsofthehostcountry
Theattorneyfurthermaintained that his clients are entitled to a fair hearing.
“My client company, Mohamed’s Enterprise, and its officers and shareholders who are subjecttoprosecutioninthecourts in Guyana are entitled to a fair hearing under the protection of the
Universal Declaration of Human Rights,” he said. Quinter concerns follow recent remarks by AmbassadorTheriot, who asserted confidence in the case against the Mohameds and debunked claims that extradition is politically influencedandmotivated.
“So, the United States does not pursue criminal charges for political reasons. We do it because we have hard, unequivocal evidence against a person Why would we take on a case we don’t think we’re going to win. That’s just a waste of the US taxpayers’ money, so we firmly believe that they’re guilty of the crimes that they’rebeingindictedfor,”Theriot said during an episode of SOURCES.
The Mohameds are currently facing a federal indictment in Miami, United States, following the unsealing of a 25-page document on October 30, 2025
The request seeks their extradition toanswertoan11-countindictment involvingallegationsoflarge-scale fraud, money laundering, customs violations,bribery,andtheevasion of millions of dollars in taxes and royaltieslinkedtogoldexports.
The US government made an
U.S.-based Attorney
Peter A. Quinter
Government of Guyana and the case is presently being the GeorgetownMagistrates’Court.
The US ambassador had said, “It’s in the Guyanese Judiciary’s hands at this point.And you know, we were ready to move forward we’re simply holding peoplethatwebelieveareguiltyof acrimeaccountableforthatcrime. And to be fair, it’s not just the United States taxpayers that were defrauded. I mean, let’s be clear aboutthat.”
The extradition proceedings beganinOctober2025.Thematter is also engaging the Caribbean CourtofJustice(CCJ).
Residents of St Cuthbert'sMissionalongthe Soesdyke-Linden Highway are already seeing major improvements in daily life following the completion of a$196millionroadproject,a development that is expected to significantly enhance transportation, agriculture, and tourism in theRegionFourAmerindian community
The newly completed road now allows farmers to transport cassava and other agricultural produce more efficiently from riverine areas into the village centre andonwardtoGeorgetown.
According to Toshao Alvoro Simon, the project has strengthened economic activities and reduced longstanding transportation challenges.
Duringaninterviewwith the Department of Public Information (DPI) on Thursday, Simon described the project as long overdue and transformative for residents.The toshao noted that the project had been in the pipeline for years, but gained momentum after direct engagement with President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali.“This project has beenindiscussionforalong time. However, it was only afterwehadtheopportunity to engage the president and emphasise its importance to ourcommunitylastyearthat we saw real progress. The road was completed within eightmonths,”hesaid.
$196 million road project St Cuthbert's Mission
Toshao Alvoro Simon and councillors during a public engagement with Minister of Local Government & Regional Development Priya Manickchand
This project was funded through the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority(NDIA)underthe Ministry of Agriculture and included strong community involvement, with residents employed during its execution.
Toshao Simon praised thecontractorforfosteringa positive relationship with villagers and contributing meaningfullytotheproject's success.
“Now that the road is completed, it represents a major step forward for our tourism sector Mission Landing is one of our main attractions, where visitors come to swim and relax. With improved access, all types of vehicles can now reach the area, which will significantlyincreasevisitor numbers,”thetoshaosaid. Previously, poor road conditions,especiallyduring
Frompage6 German colony, was partitioned by Britain andFranceafterWorldWarOne.TheFrench part won independence in 1960 and was joined a year later by the smaller EnglishspeakingBritishareatothewest.
More than 6,500 people have been killed and more than half a million displaced in fighting between government forces and anglophone separatist groups, according to the International Crisis Group. Priests are frequently kidnapped for ransom and some havebeenkilled.PopeLeoheardonThursday from Sister Carine Tangiri Mangu, who
described being kidnapped and held hostage for three days last November, and Imam Mohamad Abubakar, who described how armed men "invaded" a mosque during prayersthatsamemonth,killingthreepeople.
Aseparatistalliancesaiditwouldobserve a three-day ceasefire to allow civilians and visitorstomovefreelyduringthepope'svisit.
Effortstobrokerapeacedealhavesofar amounted to little, though Leo said he was heartenedthecrisis"hasnotdegeneratedinto a religious war" and expressed hope that Christian and Muslim leaders could mediate anendtothefighting.
Dem boys seh welcome to de Chinese AcrobaticTroupewhocomingtoGuyanato show we how human body could bend, twist, flip and balance pun one finger without falling down Is world-class entertainment, dem say But some people asking why import acrobats when Guyana alreadygotplentylocaltalentinpolitics.
Dem boys seh if them Chinese visitors reallywantcompetition,lehdemspendone week watching we politicians. After that, dem sure to pack up dem poles and plates andaskfuhearlyflighthome.
Look how some of we politicians does twistwords.Thatkindofspinwouldmakea man doing triple somersault get dizzy And leh we talk balance.Acrobats does balance pon rope high in de air But Guyanese politiciansdoesbalancepunbothsidesofan issue at de same time. Morning time dem support something strong strong By evening, dem oppose it with equal passion. Ifthatain'tbalance,whais?
Thenyuhgotdecontortionists.Chinese performerscouldfolddemselfintosuitcase sizebox.Nicetrick.Butlocalleaderscould squeeze ten promises into one budget and still find space fuh three excuses.That is advanced flexibility Dem boys seh de
the rainy season, limited access to the area and required the use of off-road vehicles With the new concrete surface, residents cannowtravelmoreeasilyto essential services such as schools, the health centre andthevillageoffice.
T h e i m p
accessibility is also opening neweconomicopportunities for residents, who can now sell fresh produce, crafts, andtraditionalfoodsdirectly tovisitors.
With additional plans in place for drainage upgrades
A30-year-oldminerwasonWednesday arrested in connection with a quantity of th marijuana discovered at 4 Avenue Bartica duringapoliceoperation.
In a statement to the media the police said during the operation, ranks went to a shop at the location, where a 30-year-old minerofThreeMiles,Barticawascontacted.
A search was conducted on his person, during which one transparent plastic bag containing five transparent zip-lock bags with a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems suspectedtobecannabiswasfound,”police
development, St Cuthbert's Mission is poised for continuedgrowth,markinga significant step forward in infrastructure development f
y Amerindian community in RegionFour(DPI)
jugglers too got nuff competition. Real acrobats does juggle balls, plates and fire sticks.Politiciansheredoesjugglescandals, press conferences, missing files, rising pricesandstillsmilefuhcamera.Sometimes demevenjugglenumberstillnobodyknow ifcost-of-livingrisingorfalling.
And de escape artists! Chinese troupe mightlocksomebodyinchainsanddenfree demself in seconds But Guyanese politiciansdoesescaperesponsibilityfaster than Houdini. Soon as trouble start, is de previous government, de opposition, de weather, de moon phase or international circumstances Dem boys seh don't underestimate de clowns neither Every circusneedcomicrelief,andeverypolitical season does provide nuff laughter free of cost.Somestatementssofunny,peopleain't knowwhetherfuhvexorclap.
Sowelcome,ChineseAcrobaticTroupe. Enjoy Guyana, taste de pepperpot, see KaieteurFalls,andputonagrandshow But if yuh looking fuh real masters of bending, flipping and landing on dem feet no matter whahappen,justwatchlocalpolitics.
As dem boys seh, some performances don'tneedtickets. Talkhalf.Leffhalf.
said.
There were further searches carried out within the shop and another transparent plastic bag which contained 21 transparent ziplockbagswithaquantityofleaves,seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis was found.
The suspect along with the narcotics, was escorted to the Bartica Police Station, where the narcotics was weighed in his presence, amounting to 18 grams. It was lodged and the suspect remains in custody pendinginvestigations.
It was President Richard Nixon who liked to play at the crazy man routine. For reasonsstillunfathomableto me,hedevelopedafondness for the madman syndrome, likedtobeseenassuch. One ofthosefoaming-around-the gills, out-of-control, fiends that people shrink from on the streets. He put on his best act when laying out his cardstoUSenemies;anyone who blocked his way, disturbedhiscomposure. In Mr Nixon’s instance, perfecting the madman syndrome was his idea of
straightening out obstinate people, and compel them to his understanding of how to r e s o l v e d i f f i c u l t circumstances. Suffice it to say, Richard Nixon was no madman and, to tangle matters,hewasapooractor Fewtookhimseriously In the case of President DonaldTrump,itdependson the day, the hat that fits his head. Somewhereinsidehis fevered head, the part that’s clear,hehastomakeachoice to match the situation Either he is Mr Hyde or Hannibal Lector In those
two names, there is something for everybody Thosewhoneverreadabook in their life, are sure to have viewed a motion picture or two. Bottomline:Someold men with lengthy beards, andstrangelyoutfitted,have sent Mr Trump spiraling to the edge of reality In a word: Iran. The precipice was never closer, shakier, moreindangerofcollapsing atthemerestmovementofa leaf. Donald Trump looks like a hearty eater Mortal peril. I fear for him. I fear forAmerica more. The fear forIranisless. ThePersians know how to perpetuate irregular warfare. The US has the Pentagon. Iran has its cells, moles, sleepers. They have no code, no structured SoPs. The Don saidtheIraniansthrewinthe towel. The Iranians retort that he caved under the weight of his own molasses moments. Sticky and like CrazyGluethosecanbe. Let debaters and armchair
generals begin their discussions and dissections about who is afflicted with derangement syndrome, and who is not. I have already moved on, with one step backward,tenforward.
In Richard Nixon’s situation and clear-as-sky condition, if he was a madman, then so am I. He didn’t help himself and, if it cametoatest,hewouldhave proventobetheworstOscar contender In sum, Nixon was a poor president (at least,domestically),andone ofthepoorestcandidatesfor a slot in the acting profession. Even as a bit player, an extra, or a parttimer He wanted to d parachute in the 82 Airborne,andsealtheSaudi Arabian oil wells with cement. That was to teach themtoplayruffgameswith the US and their oil that belongs to the world and America, not necessarily in thatorder Asoothingbucket of ice-cold sanity-enriched
waterbroughthimtohis senses. TheRussianswere watching. The Democrats had both bark and bite back then.
Regarding Mr Trump, theworldgetsacombination that is unlikable, as well as unmanageable. How about Hollywood cum Bollywood forastart,andBethlehemto refine things nicely! This
Bethlehem is not where Jesus(rememberhimandhis commercial about Prince of Peace?),wellDonaldTrump went ahead and seized that crownforhimself. It’smore from a contorted string of contradictory clues. Lest I forget: the Bethlehem mentionedis that hospitalin England. Here’s a dollar to inspire efforts: from Bethlehem is derived that mangled construction of bedlam Neat isn’t it? Admirable also, since it fits themaninquestion,sowell. Heistherealarticle. Nixon can playact. Trump way is strangling: play the fool
with me, and get ready for the guillotine coming to severgulletfromgrandideas intheheadaboutresistance. For some reason, the image of Guyanese loonies’ fills front windshield and rearview mirror in distorted proportions. Prepare for street communication. Yuh tink yuh maad, ah gon show yuhwhoreallymad. Mehed aint good. There it is, straight from the mouths of the people who count. Of this be assured, I know my limitations. Theproblemfor today’s world is that it now liveswithaphonypeace,an artificial tranquility, with this stick of vinegar and spiceheldinreserve. There isNorthKorea. Ah,theAxis ofAggressionlooms. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinionsofthisnewspaper.)
Despite delays to the Gas-toEnergy (GTE) project, the Government of Guyana (GoG) is continuing preparations for its eventual startup to monetize the resources through the construction of a Gas Bottling Company and FertilizerPlantatWales,WestBank Demerara.
On Thursday, the Office of the Prime Minister invited investors, both local and foreign, to submit Expressions of Interest for the two projects.
Accordingtotheadvertisement placed in Kaieteur News, the Guyana Ammonia and Urea Plant Inc. (GAUP) is estimated to cost US$300M. It said investors can provide up to US$5M, however interested parties can express the maximum amount they are interestedininvesting.
Moreover, government noted “Investors can assume a Government guarantee of 10% annual return ” The Prime Minister’sOfficealsomadeitclear thattheGuyanaAmmoniaandUrea Plant Inc. will not be a publicly traded company but a private company.
Meanwhile,withregardstothe GuyanaGasBottling,andLogistics Company Inc. (GGBLC), GoG explained, “A cap of US$1 M per investor is targeted by the GOG; however, interested parties can express the maximum quantum theyareinterestedininvesting.”
Like GAUP, it noted that GGBLC will not be a publicly traded company The Gas Bottling project is expected to cost US$40M. Investors can expect a
government guarantee of 10% annual return. For both projects, government promised to give preference to Guyanese, including those in the diaspora although all interested investors are invited to participateintheprocess.
According to the PM’s Office, interested investors are required to write an email, stating which component(s)theyareinterestedin and include details such as: (i) Legal name of prospective Investor, including registered address and all contact details; (ii) Beneficial owner, including registered address and contact details if different from legal owner; (iii). Copy of identification indicating nationality and whether residing in Guyana or abroad; (iv) Desired terms/conditions for the investmentandwhetherinvestment is specific to above projects or whether interest is general, subject
toreasonabletermsandconditions.
These conditions will also apply to a company or corporate entity that is interested in the projects.
Interested persons can submit proposals before May 15, 2026 to Chairman, National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), Main and Urquhart Streets,Georgetown.
According to the GoG, “All information provided is only indicative Final terms and conditions may differ from above. This is only a preliminary Expression of Interest. Based on the response, Government will structure appropriate details of the investment and make a formal call forinvestments...GoGisnotbound to accept any response to this EOI and reserves the right to select any Party(ies)foranyspecificelement oftheEOIandtoannultheprocess
at any time without further direction, without thereby incurring any liability to the affectedinterestedparties.”
Last year, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo hinted that Guyanese can be allowed in the future to invest in the country’s energy projects, following an announcement by the Surinamese government that nationals there would be allowed to invest in that country’sfirstoilproject.
He stated, “If we build a fertilizer plant in Guyana, maybe wecouldhavepeopletakeequityin the project or invest through bonds.”
In Suriname, the government were allowing citizens to invest as low as US$100 to earn returns on theupcomingoilprojectwhichwill commence production activities in 2028.
The official launch of the bond
issuancetookplaceonJanuary31, 2025.
The Staatsolie Bond 20252033, which was available in both US dollars and Euros, took effect on 23 March 2025, and has an eight-yearterm.Theinterestrateis set at 7.75% for the US$ bond and 7.25%fortheEURbond.
Local investors had an opportunity to participate from as little as US$100 or EUR 100. Staatsolie said for larger investors residing in Suriname, Curaçao, or Sint Maarten, a denomination of US$30,000wasavailable. Proceeds from the bond issue will be used by Staatsolie to cofund its participation of up to 20% in the development of the GranMorgu offshore oil field in Block 58. The total investment for thisprojectisestimatedatUS$12.2 billion, of which Staatsolie’s contributionisUS$2.4billion.
The Guyana Power and Light (GPL) on Wednesday met with farmers at the Lakeville Health Centre, De Hoop, Region 5 to discuss the 230kV transmission linepassingthroughtheirlandsand to explore compensation among otherissues.
The power company in a statement said that a team led by KeshNandlallandincluded
Director General of the Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation, Alfonso De Armas and other staff of GPL conducted the communitymeeting.
“During the session, farmers were informed about the proposed 230 kV transmission line that will traversesectionsoftheirfarmlands. The team outlined the importance of the project, emphasizing its role in enhancing the reliability and stabilityofelectricitysupplywithin theregion,”GPLsaid.
In addition, GPLshared details about the proposed route, the
phases in which theprojectwillbe implemented,andthetimelineline that is anticipated for its completion This allowed stakeholders to have a clearer understanding of the scope and impactoftheproject.
“Farmers also inquired about compensation and the potential impact on their farms. They were assured that any impact to their livelihoods would be minimal and would be appropriately addressed,
A section of the farmers who attended the meeting.
andwereadvisedoftheprocessfor receiving compensation. All other concerns raised were addressed by theteam,”GPLsaid.
In April 2025, Kaieteur News reported that Power China and Indian firm Kalpataru signed contracts worth some US $422 million (GUY $90 billion) for the extension of transmission lines for Guyana Power and Light (GPL Inc).
During a press briefing at the
Office of the Prime Minister’s boardroom, the head of GPL’s executive management committee, Kesh Nandlall, said it is no secret that Guyana has the fastestgrowingeconomyintheworld.He said GPL’s role is of paramount importance in supporting the energyneedsofthecountry Hedisclosedthattherearethree lots for the projects in the eastern corridor of the Demerara-Berbice InterconnectedSystem(DBIS).Lot
One was awarded to Power China inthesumofUSD $256.7million, while contracts for the other two lots were won by Kalpataru for USD$156.5million.
Nandlallexplained,“Theselots include 155 kilometers of 230 double circuit transmission line, 167 kilometers of 69 kV double circuit transmission line, the construction of five new substations and the upgrade of one substationatKingston.The230kV transmission line will interconnect with the Goedverwagting substation that is now being constructedundertheGTEproject, to a new substation to be constructed in Williamsburg, East Berbice.”
The 69 kV line will include replacing the current lines of the same nature on the railway embankment and will interconnect with the new substation in East Berbice.Theothernewsubstations will be located in LBI, Enmore, Trafalgar,andWilliamsburg.
The Government of Guyana, in collaboration with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, will host a series of cultural performances by a visiting Chinese acrobatic troupe as part of activities to commemorate Guyana’s 60th Independence Anniversary
Director of National Events, Andrew Tyndall, announced that the visit forms part of ongoing cultural diplomacy between Guyana and China, which established diplomatic relationsonJune27,1972.
Tyndall explained that theperformancesrepresenta cultural gift from China to Guyana, strengthening the longstanding partnership between the two nations.
“Thisyear,aspartofChina’s gift to Guyana for our 60th Independence Anniversary, they have brought an acrobatic troupe which will be doing five performances across several regions,” Tyndallstated.
The free performances will begin onApril 19 at the National Track and Field Centre, Leonora, followed by two shows onApril 20 at theNationalCulturalCentre: one at 1 pm for school childrenandanotherat7pm forthegeneralpublic.
Additionalperformances are scheduled for Linden at the Bayroc Stadium, Region TwoattheAnnaReginaCar ParkandinBerbice.
Director of the visiting troupe, Li Ming, said the group is honoured to be in
Guyana, strengthening cultural ties through artistic exchange.“Weareinvitedto return to the beautiful Guyana again, which is not only a sincere continuation of the traditional ChinaGuyanafriendship,butalsoa vivid practice of enhancing people-to-people bonds and deepening mutual learning between civilisations,” the directornoted.
DeputyChiefofMission at the Chinese Embassy, Huang Rui, said the visit underscores the importance of cultural exchange in strengthening bilateral relations. He also noted that the performances coincide with Guyana’s 60th Independence Anniversary
and continued collaboration between the two countries across infrastructure, health, education, and cultural development The Hebei Acrobatic Troupe, founded in 1976, has performed in over 80 countries and won more than 50 international awards.
The performances in Guyana will feature awardwinning acts, including lion dance, group contortion, chair balancing, umbrella juggling, and traditional Chinese acrobatic displays. Thetourisexpectedtobring world-classentertainmentto thousands of Guyanese while further deepening culturaltiesbetweenthetwo nations.(DPI)
Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony during week handed over seven new boats to the Regional Administration in Region One to enhance healthcare delivery across riverineandremotecommunities.
The seven boats, each with 40horsepower engines, will support outreach services along key areas including Red Hill, Blackwater, Savannah, the Waini River, and communitieswithintheBaramaand Moruca sub-regions, where access to healthcare has long been a challenge due to distance and transportationlimitations.
Accordingtoinformationprovidedbythe MinistryofHealth,thevesselswillfacilitatea wide range of essential services, including mobile vaccination outreaches for children,
school health programmes, chronic disease monitoring, and home visits for bedridden andvulnerablepatients.
The boast will also support maternal healthservicesbyenablingexpectant
Continued on page 16
Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony and Regional officials of Region One during the handing over of new boats.
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has launched a new Climate SmartAgriculturecourseaimed at equipping Guyanese with practical skills to boost food security and build sustainable livelihoods.
The programme, rolled out through the Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN), is being delivered in collaboration with the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) under the MinistryofAgriculture.
Human Services Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud, in a ministry video post, spoke about the importance of the initiative in empowering individuals and communities. Shenotedthatthecourseisdesignedtohelp participants adopt adaptive and resilient agricultural systems that can withstand changingclimateconditionswhileimproving cropyields.
Participants involved during a recent programme session. (Photo: Ministry of Human Services and Social Security)
grafting, planting, and crop management. Participantsarealreadyengaginginpractical exercises such as grafting spice mango onto Julie mango and combining grapefruit buds withlemonplants.
Theprogrammeoffersanopportunityfor personstonotonlysupporttheirfamiliesbut toalsoventureintoagricultureasabusiness, Persaud said, encouraging members of the public to register and take advantage of the freetraining.
Opentobothmenandwomenaged15and older, the course provides hands-on instructioninarangeoftechniques,including
The initiative forms part of a series of training programmes expected to be expandedtoregionsacrossGuyana,withthe training suitable for individuals interested in backyard gardening as well as those seeking toestablishorgrowagriculturalenterprises.
Theministryisurginginterestedpersons tosignupusingtheofficialregistrationlink, notingthattheprogrammewillsoonbetaken toadditionalregions.
The Guyana Power and Light is seeking a contractor to upgrade the Bartica Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) from grid-following to grid-forming, a move aimed at improvingpowerreliabilityandblackoutrecovery
According to industry definitions from Energy Central, grid-followingreferstothecontrolstrategyinwhichinverterbased energy sources such as solar, wind, or battery systems synchronize their output with the existing electricitygrid.
In simple terms, these systems rely on the grid’s voltage and frequency as a reference point and cannot function independentlyduringanoutage.
Intheinvitationforbidsrecentlycirculated,GPLassured that bidding will be conducted through the National CompetitiveBidding(NCB)procedures,whicharespecified in the Procurement Act. “Interested eligible bidders may inspect the Bidding Documents and obtain further information from the Procurement Office, Guyana Power & LightInc.40MainStreetduringnormalworkinghours,”the bidinvitestated.
TheMinistryofHumanServicesandSocialSecuritysays it is taking “decisive action” to address irregularities in the public assistance programme, including ineligible beneficiariesandweakoversightintheapprovalprocess.Ina major step to strengthen accountability, the ministry announced that medical doctors will now be present at all Local Board of Guardians (LBG) meetings to ensure more accurateassessmentsofdisabilityclaims.
“This will support accurate evaluation of permanent disability cases, in keeping with the list of recognised conditions established by the National Commission on Disability,”theministryshared.
Guyanese residents, aged 18-64, can seek public assistanceforthemselvesorachildduetofinancialhardship oramedicalconditionprovidingtheyhaveamedicalreport. TheLBGandRegionalHealthOfficersplayacriticalrolein assessingeligibilityforpublicassistance,particularlyincases involving medical conditions and financial hardship, the ministryexplained.
SubjectministerDr VindhyaPersaudrecentlyconveneda meeting with the two bodies seeking to address several gaps within the system. “Among the concerns raised were instances of medical certificates being issued to individuals who are not genuinely ill, enabling access to permanent disability benefits, as well as inadequate scrutiny of these medical reports by LBG members responsible for reviewing anddeterminingapplications,”theministryshared.
ItsaidPersaudfirmlychargedLBGmemberstocarryout theirdutieswithintegrity,ensuringthatallneedsassessments areconductedthoroughly,fairly,andwithoutbias.“Minister Persaud made it clear that the ministry is taking decisive action to address irregularitieswithin the system. Efforts are beingintensifiedtoensurethatpublicassistancereachesthose whogenuinelyneedit,whilepreventingmisusebyineligible recipients,”theministrysaid.
Last October, the government announced that it was moving to reform the LBG to make public assistance more accessible and equitable. Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo had said that the reform was intended to address long-standing complaintsofexclusionandbiaswithinthecurrentsystem. Jagdeo had explained that the government’s goal was to establish a more objective and transparent system for determiningeligibility,ensuringthatallqualifiedindividuals, suchaslow-incomefamilies,singleparents,andpersonswith disabilities, can access the financial help they need without unnecessary hurdles. “The complaint has been that many peoplecan’tgetontothedatabasebecausethey’reexcluded Continued on page 16
SalesRepneeded,ages1830 years. Knowledge of vehicle model will be an asset.Contact:619-1237.
Wanted house lot to buy and land with unfinished buildingcall216-0671/6928464orWhatsApp622-0267.
Are you looking for a caregivertotakecareofyour parentsorsiblingspreferably ontheE.B.D.Call663-7944.
Looking for an honest and reliable live in maid,30yrs andolder.Call:227-2321
Two(2)MiantenanceSuperintendent and two (2) Diesel & Hydraulic Mechanics,one (1) MultiFunctional Operators.For serious enquiries contact: 503-2442.
V/Hoop Empty, lot 1 New Road,public road,W.C.D.1 Acre rental investments for prime businesses Tel#2274377.
V/Hoop front lot building and land next to KFC . Lot 8 New Road,W.C.D.Investment for businesses Tel#2274377.
Visa Application:U.S.A, Canada&UK:Graphicsdesign, advertisements, wedding arch rentals.Tel:6267040.
Contact Panther Visa ConsultancyonIG,FBorcall 6230406 for visa consultancy, travel packages.
1HondaCRV,includesTV, music system, alarm, reverse camera, spoiler, low mileage, PTT Series (first owner).Call:649-0956.
PurebreedGermanShepherd puppies for sale-Call Whatsapp:648-0111.
TRUCK TIRES 295 / 75R22.5 $40KEACH.FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL/WHATSAPP:+592688-3201.
Aracari Hotel Renovated rooms,A/C,TV,Restaurant, Bar, Pool, Gym. Stay 7 nights, 1 FREE! Call: 2642946.
OneclerkforTSIEcclesoffice English 1, Maths 2 call 615-9132oremail application to techserigy@gmail.com
Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles, age23-50,Car/Vanlicence Call615-9132.
MaidforEastBankareacall 615-9132.
Tilertolaysmallnumbersof tilescall-615-9132
VacancyexistsforaHousekeeper/Cook.Contact:6242903.
General Domestic (4 day work)&experienedhandyman,applyatKeyfoodTrading Mc Doom next to the post office.
COOK/BAKER&PITMEN forinteriorlocation.Applicants must be experienced. Call:231-2250.
ExperiencedHairColorist, Hair Cutters, Nail technicians,Receptionist&Masseuserequired.PleaseCall/ WhatsApp: 6096259 or 6495005.
1 male driver age 25-50, resideonW.C.D/W.B.D.Call: 638-5287, 08:00AM to 04:00PMMonday-0Friday
Wales Public Road, W.B.D, Parcel 21 (0.467 acres) 20,342sqft.AvailableLong term 20-25 years. Sign on property. Phone/Whatsapp: 615-2270/628-8619.
Wales Public Road, W.B.D, Parcel25(0.494acres)21,388 sqft.AvailableLongterm2025 years. Sign on property Phone/Whatsapp:615-2270/ 628-8619.
Malgre Tout, W.B.D, (South of Masjid)-Lot "C" (1.347 acres) 58675 sq ft.Available Long term 20-25 years. Sign on property. Phone/ Whatsapp: 615-2270/6288619.
Versailles,W.B.D,(Southof Aracari Hotel)-Lot 167 (4.6606acres)203,016sqft. Available Long term 20-25 years. Sign on property Phone/Whatsapp:615-2270/ 628-8619.
FamilyFunAracariResort! Crystalclearpool,safekids & adult sections, Music & food.W.B.D.Call:264-29469.
ThePanAmericanHealth Organization (PAHO) has launched a new series of policybriefstosupportcountries in strengthening longterm care across the Americas, in response to rapid population aging and growing care needs.
In Latin America and the Caribbean, an estimated 14.4% of people aged 65 and older—around8millionindividuals — require long-term care,afigureprojectedtorise to16%by2050.
Long-term care includes support for people who, due to chronic illness, disability, or dependency, are unable to carry out basic and instrumental activities of daily livingontheirown,suchasbathing, dressing, eating, using the bathroom or telephone, moving,ortakingmedications.
According to Patricia Morsch, PAHO’s Regional Advisor on Healthy Aging, long-term care encompasses allactivities—paidorunpaid — that help maintain or improve a person’s functioning and compensate for temporary or permanent loss of ca-
pacity.“Whilecareneedscan ariseatanyage,theybecome morecommonaspeoplegrow older,” she said.
PAHO notes that not all people with disabilities require long-term care, but warns that the prevalence of severe functional limitations isincreasing,partlyduetothe riseinnoncommunicablediseases,includingneurological andmentalhealthconditions, as well as population aging. Atthesametime,currentsystems face major challenges, includinglimitedservicecoverage, shortages and undervaluation of the care workforce, and insufficient datatoinformdecision-making.
Intheregion,nearly70% oflong-termcareisprovided bywomeninthefamily,often withoutpayoradequatesupport.Thisplacesasignificant burden on them and highlights persistent gender inequalities. PAHO stresses thatpoliciesmustaddressnot onlythosereceivingcare,but also those providing it.
TheCOVID-19pandemic helped bring greater visibil-
From page 12 mothers to access the Maternal Waiting Home in Mabaruma, also in Region One, where they can receive care from trained midwives, obstetricians and other healthcare professionals in a safe environment ahead of delivery,”theministrystated.
Speaking at the handing over, Minister Anthony said that the regions geography makes river transportation essentialforhealthcaredelivery. He noted that the provision of the boats will strengthen emergency re-
sponsecapabilitiesandallow for more consistent delivery of comprehensive primary healthcare services.
The Regional Chairman, Brentnol Ashley noted that the initiative was driven by concerns raised by residents, particularlythehighcostand difficulty of travelling long distances,sometimesover90 miles to access healthcare services. The introduction of these boats, he said is expected to significantly reduce that burden, while also ensuring timely medical attention.
itytotheimportanceoflongterm care and created an opportunity to move toward more integrated systems that link health and social protection, centered on individuals andtheirfamilies.
New guidance to strengthen long-term care systems
The new series of documents aims to operationalize PAHO’s Regional Policy on Long-TermCare(2025–2034), translating it into actionable recommendationstoimprove access, quality, and equity in long-termcare.
The first three publicationsfocusonkeyareas:person-centered long-term care; theroles,rights,andneedsof paid and unpaid caregivers; and governance and financing of long-term care systems.Theyweredevelopedin collaboration with international partners, including the InternationalLabourOrganization (ILO) and the InterAmericanDevelopmentBank
(IDB).
The documents provide key concepts, country examples, and practical recommendations to strengthen governance,expandthelongtermcareworkforce,improve service integration, and advance sustainable financing mechanisms.
PAHO emphasises that long-term care should not be limited to institutional settings,butshouldbeprimarily delivered in homes and communities,respectingpeople’s rights, dignity, autonomy, and preferences. The release comes at a critical moment, midway through the United Nations Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021–2030), which identifieslong-termcareasa priority area for action.
“Strengthening long-term care is essential to advancing more equitable, integrated, and people-centered health and social protection systems,” Morsch concluded.
From page 15 bytheBoardofGuardiansfor reasons that are not objective,” Jagdeo stated.
To address these issues, Jagdeo said the government was developing a comprehensive, criteria-based system that will clearly outline the requirements for receiving public assistance. Thisnewsystemwillprevent arbitrary decision-making and ensure that those who meet the established criteria are swiftly added to the assistance database.
APNUMemberofParliament Ganesh Mahipaul had called for a forensic audit of the publicassistanceprogramme during his presentation dur-
ing the national budget debateearlierthisyear,arguing thatthe$25,000amountallocated for public assistance is insufficient for those who depend on it. Further,hecalledforaforensic audit to be done to “weed out the friends, families and favourites who are barefacedlyreceivingitwithoutsatisfyingthecriteriaand are in the financial position to provide for themselves.” Additionally,Mahipaulcalled for the expansion of public assistance benefits, urging the government to provide water and electricity subsidiestothosewholegitimately qualify.
Young people in Region Three are being urged to position themselves for economic opportunities as the government moves closer to establishing the GuyanaDevelopmentBank, which will offer zerointerest loans and no collateral financing for entrepreneurs.
Minister of Public S
d Implementation, Zulfikar Ally, alongside Minister within the Ministry of A
Vi
Ramkissoon, met with youths at West Central Mall inLeonoraonWednesdayto sensitise them about the initiative and broader developmentopportunities.
Thedevelopmentbankis p a r t o f a w i d e r transformation agenda aimed at ensuring young Guyanese are prepared for the country's rapid growth. MinisterAlly explained that the proposed financial institution will be a life
changer for many and will
challenges faced by loan seekers.
He said the government has already moved to eliminate these barriers, ensuring young people with sound business ideas can access financing without placing personal assets at risk. Yo
government initiatives, including free tertiary education, the GOAL scholarshipprogramme,and skills training opportunities, all of which are designed to
emergingopportunities.
Meanwhile, Minister Ramkissoon explained that the initiative will provide liquidity for business ventureswhileremovingthe burden of high interest rates and collateral requirements that traditionally prevent young entrepreneurs from accessing funding “We
stand here today before the youths of Region Three to tellyouthatoneofthemajor commitments we made to you is to ensure that the development bank comes into being…so that you can do business, prosper and do greatthingsforyourselves,” hestated.
Both ministers stressed the need for residents to collaborate, think beyond local markets, and tap into regional and international opportunities.
Persons in attendance were also reminded of Guyana'srapiddevelopment across sectors, including agriculture, construction, s e r v i c e s , a n d manufacturing.
Theoutreachformspart ofanationwidesensitisation campaignasthegovernment prepares to operationalise the Guyana Development Bank to e mpower entrepreneurs, expand economic participation, and support inclusive national development.(DPI)
Guyana is fast becoming a paradise for opportunistic contractors, and the troubling case of Lindsayca-CH4 underscores why.
A nation flush with oil wealth is being treated as a blank cheque, while those entrusted to safeguard public funds remain disturbingly silent. Reports of inflated costs, luxury spending, and attempts to push billions more onto the Wales gas-to-energy project raise serious questions about oversight and accountability.
The People’s Progressive Party Civic Government cannot continue to look the other way.Whether through negligence or complicity, the result is the same. Guyana is being taken for granted. This is not just about one contractor; it is about a pattern. If decisive action is not taken now, the country risks losing far more than money, it risks its credibility, its sovereignty, and the trust of its people.
(Business Insider Africa)Tanzaniahasmoved to tighten control over its mining sector, revoking 40 mineralexplorationlicences in a sweeping enforcement action targeting companies accused of holding assets withoutdevelopingthem.
The Ministry of Mineralscitedissuessuchas assethoarding,non-payment offees,andpoorcompliance withlocalregulations.
Revoked licences
will be reassigned through the 'Mining for a Brighter Tomorrow' programme to promote more inclusive miningsectorparticipation.
Additional 43 licence holders have been given 30 days to comply with regulations or face similarrevocations.
Tanzanian Minister of MineralsAnthony Mavunde ordered the Mining Commission to cancel the licences after repeated non-
compliance by operators, despite prior warnings and grace periods to rectify violations.
A ministry assessment found widespread breaches, including hoarding of exploration blocks without development, failure to pay statutory fees, noncompliance with local content rules, and weak c o r p o r a
e s o c i a l responsibilitycommitments.
“The government will not
Local miners, investors in Tanzania set T to take over mining rights as government revokes 40 exploration licences
tolerate negligence that hinders the development of the mining sector and the broader economy, ” Mavunde told reporters in Dodoma.
Authorities said the
WASHINGTON, April 16 (Reuters) - The U S House of Representativesofferedararechallenge to President Donald Trump's immigration enforcement agenda on Thursday as a handful of Republicans joined Democrats to vote to extend temporary protections for 350,000 HaitianslivingintheUnitedStates.
The House voted 224-204 in favor of legislation allowing Haitians to remain eligible for Temporary ProtectedStatusforthreeyearsafterthe U.S.DepartmentofHomelandSecurity
terminated the humanitarian protections they had been granted.The legislation now heads to the Republican-led U.S. Senate, where its fateisuncertain.
But the vote showed some Republicans were ready to break with theWhiteHouseontheissueastheU.S. Supreme Court prepares this month to weigh whether to allow the Trump administrationtorevoketheprotections from deportation granted to the Haitians. Ten Republ
People walk near the U.S. Capitol building on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., U.S
revoked licences will be returned to the state and reallocated under the “Mining for a Brighter Tomorrow” programme, targetingsmall-scaleminers, capable investors, and designated groups to boost inclusiveparticipation.
Africa's mining push accelerates regulatory tightening
The decision reflects a broader trend across Africa, where governments are increasingly reviewing m
nts, enforcing stricter licensing conditions, and prioritising national ownership of mineralwealth.
From gold to critical minerals, states are seeking to ensure that licences
l production,jobcreation,and
n speculative holding In
crackdown also reinforces its position as the world's only source of Tanzanite, a strategically valuable gemstone concentrated near Mount Kilimanjaro. “We have identified serious violations that undermine the sector's potential,” Mavunde said, adding that enforcement is intended to restore discipline and transparencyinlicensing.
TheMiningCommission has also issued compliance notices to 43 additional licenceholders,givingthem 30 days to address outstanding issues or face cancellation Failure to comply, officials warned, will result in further revocations, with assets reassigned to investors capable of advancing d e v e l o p m e n t a n d acceleratingoutputinoneof EastAfrica's most resourcericheconomies.
independent lawmaker joined Democratsinvotingforthemeasure.
TPS is available to people whose homecountryhasexperiencedanatural disaster, armed conflict or other extraordinaryevent.Itprovideseligible migrants with work authorization and temporaryprotectionfromdeportation.
Democratic RepresentativeAyanna PressleyofMassachusettsengineereda procedural move beginning in December to expedite a House vote on the bill, after then-Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem took steps to terminate the TPS designation gangviolence-strickenHaiti.
DHShasmovedtoendthestatusfor 13 countries as part of Trump's crackdownonimmigration,sayingTPS was always meant to be temporary and nota"defactoamnestyprogram."
The bill came to the floor of the Republican-led House through a "discharge petition" procedure that allows 218 or more representatives to force House votes, even if the legislationisopposedbySpeakerMike Johnson, who sets the agenda in the
chamber.Given the narrow 218-213 Republican majority in the House, Democratshavebeenusing this device to score some rare minority-party victories.
'It's looking very good that we're going to make a deal with Iran, and it's goingtobeagooddeal.
The Obama administration granted Haitians TPS in 2010, after a devastating 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck their country The United States hasrepeatedlyextendedthestatus,most recentlyundertheBidenadministration inJuly2024.
Morethan1.4millionHaitianshave been displaced by violence and instability, according to the International Organization for Migration The day before the protections were set to expire under Trump, a federal judge blocked the administration's move The U S Supreme Court is now set to hear argumentsonApril29overwhetherthe administration can move ahead with ending TPS for the Haitians as well as forabout6,100Syrians.icsaveashouse
in Regional
investigating
brazen
occurred around 19:00hrs on Wednesday at Diamond Housing Scheme, East BankDemerara.
Additional details disclosed that the suspects
then entered the home and robbed the 53-year-old woman's younger children of a tablet and cellular p h o n e d u r i n g a confrontation.Afterleaving the home they joined riders separately on black XR motorcyclesandmadegood their escape in a northerly direction Investigations intothematterareongoing.
In a statement police said that an investigation has been launched into the incident which occurred about19:00hrs.Preliminary investigations revealed that the victims had left home and, upon returning and approaching the door, were confronted by two masked males, both armed with what appeared to be handguns. The suspects then allegedly relieved the 24year-old woman of a cellular phone, while the 53-year-old woman was reportedly struck on her forehead with the handgun and relieved of a purse containing a cellular phone alongwith$20,000Guyana currency
BBC Sport - Prize money at this year's French Open will increase by 9.5%, withthelargestrisesdirected towards the qualifying competition and the early rounds.
The singles' champions will each take home 2.8m euros (£2.44m) - an increase of9.8%.
Therewillbenearly13% more prize money for the qualifying rounds, and main draw first-round losers will
receive 87,000 euros (£75,700) - an increase of 11.5%.
Players are currently campaigningforgreaterprize money at the Grand Slams, plus a contribution to their welfarebenefits.
The percentage increase offered by the FrenchTennis
Federation (FFT) is nearly twiceashighaslastyear,but doesnotmatchtherisegiven in the past year by the US Open and the Australian Open.
Prizemoneyatlastyear's US Open rose by 20%, with the figure for the Australian Opennearly16%higher
'We're looking how to helpthetennisecosystem'
The women's world numberfiveJessicaPegulais one of the players at the forefrontofthecampaignfor a greater contribution from theSlams.
SpeakingtoBBCSportat Indian Wells last month, the American acknowledged recent improvements, but argued it would help to spreadtheincreasedrewards morewidely
Coco Gauff (right) beat Aryna Sabalenka to become women's champion at last year's French Open. (Getty Images)
"I do think the US Open stepped up a lot in that aspect,"Pegulasaid.
"But even in that case all the money went towards the end of the tournament and
whatwe'relookingforishow wehelptheecosystemofthe sport and maybe that's spreading it out in the lower rounds a little bit more evenly
"We love playing the Slams-Idon'tthinkanyone's going to strike against the Slams.
whatwethinkisright."
Whatelsewillchangeat FrenchOpen?
Tournament director Amelie Mauresmo has promised there will be no expansion of cameras in playerareasatRolandGarros thisyear
Iga Swiatek said players were being watched "like animals in the zoo" at January'sAustralianOpen.
Coco Gauff called for more privacy after being caught on camera smashing her racquet at Melbourne Park, and Pegula described the constant filming as an "invasionofprivacy".
"The broadcasters want toknowmoreaboutplayersit's true," Mauresmo said at thenewsconferenceinParis.
FridayApril 17, 2026
ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19
You're likely to wake up today with a compulsion to clean or organize something, Aries. This may be rather unlikeyou.
TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)
Today should be a "no holds barred"dayasyoustrategize your next career move, Taurus.
GEMINI(May21–June20)
Today might be largely devoted to household tasks, Gemini. It isn't exactly the most glamorous assignment, but you take a certain pleasureinattendingtodaily necessities.
CANCER(June21–July22)
This is going to be a rather busydayforyou,Cancer,and you're likely to love every minute of it. You can expect to meet many people as you goaboutyourday
LEO(July23–Aug.22)
You've been working hard lately and deserve the professional acclaim that comes your way, Leo. As a result of your efforts, it's likelyyou'vereceivedorwill soon receive a bonus, raise, orpromotionofsomekind.
VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22)
This is likely to be a day geared to fulfilling the needs of family. Lesser persons would resent the obligation, but not you,Virgo.You have a nurturing spirit.As long as youfeelappreciated.
LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)
Guilt can be a powerful motivator,Libra,butitisn'ta pure one. Today you could feelobligatedtohelpafamily member with something you'dprefertotakenopartin.
SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov.21)
Today you could feel overwhel
commitments to others Thereisn'tamomentfreefor yourself, not even for a bathroombreak!
SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21)
Thosewhoknowtherealyou find your lack of confidence frustrating, Sagittarius. Your talents are startling to mere mortals, yet you rarely take creditforallyourabilities.
CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)
You may be in a quiet, reflective mood today, Capricorn.Youcouldreceive acommunicationfromanold fri
"Therearealotofpeople thataretryingtosurvivesoI thinkit'shelpingseeingthem contributetothatandnotjust solelytothepersonthatwins thetournament.
"Ijustthinkit'susasking for what we think we deserve,butIdothinkthatif the men and the women can come together - which we haveonthatfront-andkeep pushing, there's nothing wrongwithusjustaskingfor
"Butwewanttomaintain the respect for their privacy. They need to have a private area, so we won't change on thatstance."
Someplayerswillalsobe happy to know they will be allowed to wear approved fitness trackers for the first timeatRolandGarros.
Aryna Sabalenka, Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz were all asked to remove devicesbeforematchesatthe Australian Open, but a trial has now been agreed which will extend to Wimbledon andtheUSOpen.
Tracking technology can helpmonitoraperson'ssleep, strain, stress and heart, and hasbeenallowedontheWTA andATPToursforsometime.
One tradition which will remain at Roland Garros for at least another year is line judges.
The other three Grand Slams have introduced electronic line calling (ELC) in recent years, and it has been mandatory on the ATP Toursince2025.
But Gilles Moretton, the president of the FFT, maintains the technology is farfromperfectandthatline judgesplayavitalroleinthe ecosystemofFrenchtennis.
AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18)
sets you remembering the good old daysofyouryouth. Today, Aquarius, forget socializing, working, and answering the phone. Stay homeandcuddleinablanket bythefire.
PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)
Don't be surprised if neighborscometoyourdoor asking for a favor – and not justtoborrowacupofsugar! While your initial response willbetosayyes
"We look around, we see what is going on elsewhere, we see that it's not perfectthere's a 10% margin of error,"Morettonclaimed.
"WesawitinMadridlast year There was a picture takenbyaplayer[Alexander Zverev - of a mark on the clay].
" B u t w e h a v e tournaments every weekend, every week. We need these people, they do a wonderful job.
"On clay, we are lucky because we can have the footprintsoftheballs."
The National Cultural Centre tarmac erupted into life on Wednesday evening as the Guinness 'Greatest of the Streets' Georgetown Championship kicked off in electrifying fashion, with several top teams booking earlypassagetotheRoundof 16 after a night filled with intensity,flair,anddrama.
Among the standout qualifiers were Gold is Money, Tiger Bay, East Coast All-Stars, Island AllStars, Team Immaculate, Festival City, and Sparta Boss,allofwhomnavigated a challenging opening night that featured multiple matches decided via penalty shootouts.
The tournament opened with a gripping contest
between Alexander Village and Island All-Stars, ending 2-2inregulationtime.Island All-Stars held their nerve in the ensuing shootout to secure a 3-2 victory and advance.
Tiger Bay then stamped their authority with a convincing 3-1 win over Rising Stars, showcasing fluid attacking movement and composure in front of goal In another tightly contested affair, East Coast All-Stars edged Make It Happen after a 1-1 draw, prevailing2-1onpenalties.
Team Imm
e produced a disciplined display to edge California Square 1-0 in a hard-fought encounter, while Festival City delivered one of the
performances of the night, brushing aside Sophia AllStars3-0.
Gold is Money emerged as the biggest statementmakers of the evening, dismantlingStevedore5-0in a
exhibition that signalled
ambitions.
The final match of the night saw Sparta Boss and Ea
B
k Bal
s deadlocked in a tense, scorelessbattle.
Sparta Boss eventually prevailed1-0onpenaltiesto cap an entertaining opening night Action continues today with a full slate of Round of 32 fixtures. Bent StreetBfaceUnityBallersat
19:00hrs, followed by Corinthians against Team Cruel at 19:30hrs Gaza SquadtakeonLaingAvenue at 20:00hrs, while North RuimveldtopposeZ-Tekkat 20:30hrs.
Albouystown will then meet Young Stars at 21:00hrs,beforeNorthEast La Penitence clash with KTownAll-Stars at 21:30hrs Leopold and Kingston are set for a 22:00hrs showdown, with National All-Stars closing the night against Team Madrid at 22:30hrs.
With a thrilling start already delivered, fans can expect another evening of high-energy street football as the Georgetown Championshipcontinues.
BBCSport-NewJerseyGovernor MikieSherrillsaysFifaistoblamefor fanshavingtopaymorefortransportat the World Cup this summer - and that world football's governing body shouldsubsidiseit.
The Athletic reported, external earlier this week that New Jersey Transit is intending to bring in special eventpricingforthe30-minutejourney from Penn Station in New York to MetLifeStadiuminNewJersey
A train ticket to the games at the stadium could cost more than $100 (£73.80)-aseven-foldincreaseonthe usual$12.90(£9.50)forareturnfare.
No concession prices are planned, so children and seniors must also pay thefullfare.
MetLife Stadium - which will be namedNewYork/NewJerseyStadium during theWorld Cup as part of Fifa's policyoncorporatesponsorednameswill host eight matches, including an England group game, and the final on 19 July.It comes after train fares for matches at the Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, outside Boston, were vastly increased to $80 (£59), with coachticketscosting$95(£70).
Sherrillinsistedthattaxpayersand commuters would not be left to cover the cost of transporting World Cup supporters to stadiums, with Fifa sitting on huge sums from high ticket pricesforthematches.
"Weinheritedanagreementwhere Fifa is providing $0 for transportation totheWorldCup,"thegovernorposted onX,externalonWednesdayevening.
"And while NJ TRANSIT is stuck with a $48m bill to safely get fans to andfromgames,Fifaismaking$11bn.
"I'mnotgoingtostickNewJersey
The MetLife Stadium in New Jersey will host eight matches at the World Cup, including the final. (Getty Images)
commuters with that tab for years to come."Fifa should pay for the rides.
But if they don't - I'm not going to let NewJerseygettakenforone."
BBC Sport understands that NJ Transit will officially confirm pricing on Friday.A Fifa spokesperson said that the governing body was "surprised"atSherrill'scomments.
Itsaidsupporterswereexpectedto beabletotravel"atcost",andthatthere was no increased pricing for other majoreventsatthevenue.
"TheoriginalFifaWorldCup2026 Host CityAgreements signed in 2018 requiredfreetransportationforfansto allmatches,"thespokespersonsaid.
"Recognising the financial strain this placed on the host cities, back in 2023FifaadjustedtheHostAgreement requirements across all host cities as follows: All match ticket holders and accredited individuals shall be able to accesstransport(publicoradditionally planned transport) at cost to allow traveltostadiumsonmatchdays.
"Moreover, Fifa has worked for years with host cities on their transportation and mobility plans,
CompleteResults
Game-1
Alexander Village-2 vs IslandAll-Stars-2
Island All-Stars won 3-2 on penaltykicks
Game-2
TigerBay-3vsRisingStars1 Game-3
Make it Happen-1 vs East CoastAll-Stars-1 East Coast won 2-1 on penaltykicks
Game-4
Team Immaculate-1 vs CaliforniaSquare-0
Game-5
Festival City-3 vs Sophia All-Stars-0 Game-6
Gold is Money-5 vs Stevedore-0
Game-7
Sparta Boss-0 vs East Bank
Ballers-0
Sparta won 1-0 on penalty
kicks
Day 2 (Round of 32)April 17
Bent St B vs Unity Ballers19:00hrs
Corinthians vsTeam Cruel19:30hrs
GazaSquadvsLaingAvenue -20:00hrs
NorthRuimveldtvsZ-Tekk20:30hrs
AlbouystownvsYoungStars -21:00hrs
North East La Penitence vs K-townAll-Stars-21:30hrs
Leopold vs Kingston22:00hrs
National All-Stars vs Team Madrid-22:30hrs
Ken Harvey opens South American Youth Games account in Panama with rd2 KO
Guyanese amateur boxing continues to find its spark, and this time it's Ken Harveylightingthefuse.
At the 4th Youth South American Games in Panama City, the young pugilist delivered a statement performance on Wednesday night, dismantling Paraguay's Adgar Miranda en route to a commanding second round-stoppage victory and a well-earned bronze medal in the 60kg division.
including advocating for millions of dollars in federal funding to support hostcitiesfortransportation.
"The Fifa World Cup will bring millions of fans to North America along with the related economic impact.”Manyofthesefanswilltravel to NYNJ to enjoy the eight matches scheduled, including the Fifa World Cup final.”Fifa is not aware of any other major event previously held at NYNJStadium,includingothermajor sports,globalconcerttours,etc,where organiserswererequiredtopayforfan transportation."
The prices in New Jersey and Foxborough will hit England and Scotlandfans.
TheThree Lions take on Ghana in Foxboroughon23June,andthenhead to the MetLife to face Panama on 27 June.SteveClarke'sScotlandhavetwo gamesinFoxborough,againstHaition 13JuneandMoroccoon19June.
The cost of parking at stadiums is also very high, with a space at the MetLife costing $225 (£166) Foxborough is priced at $175 (£129) foronecar
From the opening bell, Harvey showed poise beyond his years. Measured andwatchfulearly,heprobed with sharp defensive jabs, testing Miranda's timing while staying just out of danger But the calm didn't last long. Once he found his rhythm, Harvey flipped the switch,turningprecisioninto punishment.
Using his reach to full advantage, the Guyanese fighter began to dictate the tempo. Crisp jabs snapped Miranda's head back, while well-placed hooks to the body started to sap the Paraguayan's resistance Miranda, known for his counterpunching, had moments of intent but Harveyconsistentlybeathim tothemark.Midwaythrough the first round, the pressure told.
A thunderous body shot forcedthefirsteight-countat
1:36, as Harvey's relentless combinationsbegantobreak through.Heclosedtheround in complete control, sweeping maximum points fromallfivejudges. If the first round was dominance, the second was destruction. Harvey came out all-in—no hesitation, no let-up.Spearingjabspierced Miranda's guard, while cannon-like hooks battered the body The Paraguayan had no answers. Another barrage forced a second eight-count, but this time there would be no recovery At 2:32 of round two, the referee stepped in. Contest over Harvey victorious by RSC.It was a performance that turned heads, and lifted spirits back home In a statement, the Guyana Boxing Association praised the young fighter's showing, notingtheirsatisfactionwith the bronze medal finish and expressing confidence in even greater success ahead. The Association's president echoed the sentiment, highlightingHarvey'simpact ininjectingfreshenergyinto the sport.And Harvey isn't done yet.With momentum firmly on his side, he steps back into the ring to face Brazil's Maicon Dos S a n t o s a n o t h e r opportunity
MUNICH, Germany, (Reuters)-BayernMunich's Luis Diaz and Michael Olise scored late goals to earn the hosts a dramatic 4-3 comeback win over Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday and send them into the last four 6-4 on aggregateafterathrillingtie.
Diaz struck in the 89th minuteandOliseinstoppage time to seal treble-chasing Bayern's place in the semis where they will play holders ParisStGermain.
Real had substitute Eduardo Camavinga sent off inthe86thaftertwobookings ineightminutesbeforeReal's doublescorerArdaGulergot his marching orders for dissentattheendofthegame asthefrustrationoftherecord 15-times European championsboiledover.
Bayern are only the second team to trail three or more times and still win a ChampionsLeaguematch.
"It was a great night for the club," Bayern coach Vincent Kompany said
"What remains for me is the total togetherness that we showed.That's what we take from the game. We showed absolute belief and will to fight our way back into the game."
Ittookonly35secondsof apulsatingfive-goalfirsthalf for Real to score, with 40year-old goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, man of the match in lastweek'sfirstleg,makinga hugeblunderandsendinghis pass straight to Guler who firedintoanemptygoal.
The Bavarians, fresh from setting a new Bundesliga record for most goals scored in a single season, made amends five minutes later courtesy of unmarked Aleksandar Pavlovic'sheaderclosetothe goalline with keeper Andriy Lunin completely out of position.
The 21-year-old Guler came to the rescue for Real , whipping a 29th-minute free kickoverthewallpastNeuer andintothetopcornertoput them 2-1 up. Guler had not scored a goal in his previous
competition.
Bayern bounced back again when Kane netted his
Munich's
Trent Alexander-Arnold
ThreeplayersandoneCoach/Manager left from Moleson Creek Thursday morningtoparticipateinthe23rdPANAM Draughts tournament to be played in ParamariboSuriname.OnFriday17ththe playerswouldbewelcomedinthecountry by officials of the Suriname Draughts Federation. On Saturday the opening ceremony followed by briefing would be held.Thegamecommencesintheevening. 22countriesareexpectedtoparticipate in this prestigious board game Grandmasters and Federation masters are alsoexpectedtobepartoftheaction. The Guyana contingent would be spearheaded by Mr Jiaram, President of
the Association Linden player Floyd Cumberbatch is expected to do well judging from his local performances last year Ravi Rampersaud, who resides in Grenada, is expectedtojointheteaminParamaribo.Dr Ivor English will perform the duties of Coach/Manager No female player will be taking part in the femalecategory,sinceaccordingtoPresidentof the Association, Mr Jiaram, a place to train females and children is being sought from PresidentIrfanAli.
Thetournamentwouldlastforninedays,in addition the Suriname board would arrange a day for sightseeing thereby boosting their tourismandhospitalitygrowth.
12th goal in this season's competition eight minutes later,beforeReal,battlingfor their only realistic shot at a trophythisseason,responded through top scorer Mbappe wholevelledfromaVinicius Jr assist just before halftime for his 15th Champions Leaguegoal.
LATEDRAMA
The pace dropped after the break but Neuer, making a record-equalling 25th appearanceintheChampions Leaguequarter-finals,hadto
come to their rescue, blocking Mbappe's powerful shotearlyinthesecondhalf.
But there was still more drama left in the game with Camavinga sent off four minutes from time for holding on to the ball after a foul.
“It was all over after the redcard,"RealcoachAlvaro Arbeloasaid.
“You can't send a player offforsomethinglikethaton suchabigstage.It'sashame to spoil such a beautiful
game."
Bayern took full advantage of the extra man, scoring through Diaz's deflected strike before manof-the-match Olise crowned a famous win for the sixtimesEuropeanchampions. "Ifeelformyplayers.For the effort they made," Arbeloa said "It hurts because Real Madrid won't win their 16th title this year I'm very proud. We're going backtoMadridaftergivingit ourall."
