Kaieteur News

Opposition leader Wednesday Edition picks nominees for Local Govt Commission August 19, 2026 - Vol. 21 No. 33

Price $200

...FGM in, APNU candidates left out

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yesterday, 40,498

Guyana’s profits move from 12.5% to 39.8% - Pres. Ali . .as Govt. finally breaks silence on US$55B recovered by Exxon Tagore girl tops at CoI to decide CSEC; QC boy at CAPE Edghill and

Indar’s fate CARIBBEAN SECONDARY EDUCATION CERTIFICATE 2026

CARIBBEAN ADVANCED PROFICIENCY EXAMINATION

Nitya Narine

David Sugrim

26 1

11 7

GRADES ONE

GRADES TWO

GRADES ONE

GRADES TWO

...inquiry to begin early September - Pres. Ali

Mohameds call on CCJ President to recuse self from extradition case

Canadian firm eyes

more gold fields in

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14

Guyana ...already sitting on 37,000 acres

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday August 19, 2026

Wednesday August 19, 2026

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Guyana’s profits move - Pres. from 12.5% to 39.8% Ali ...as Govt. finally breaks silence on US$55B recovered by Exxon By Davina Bagot Close to three weeks after ExxonMobil made a bombshell announcement to its shareholders that the company had recovered all US$55B investment made in Guyana, President Irfaan Ali finally addressed the disclosure on Tuesday during a media conference. The Head of State in a one-hour press briefing at his office on Shiv Chanderpaul Drive, Georgetown revealed that Guyana’s profit share has climbed significantly from 12.5% to 39.8% as operating costs still remain. “Guyana’s share of Stabroek Block oil has increased from 12.5% to 39.8%. This has occurred as I said because the cost bank has been recovered two years earlier than was originally expected. In terms of barrels, 75% of every hundred barrels produced went to cost recovery,” President Ali explained. As expenses have been recovered, the head of state noted that the share of oil to repay costs have been reduced from 75% to 20%. He clarified, “While the US$55B billion expenditure was paid off, the cost bank is not desaturated or entirely depleted. The 20 barrels a day (out of every 100)

account for operating and other costs which still form part of the cost bank. That which is left, which is called the profit oil is split evenly between Guyana and the companies.” C o n s e q u e n t l y, t h e president reiterated that Guyana’s profit is currently 39.8 barrels out of every 100, while the remaining 39.8 barrels is split between the three co-venturers. As such he pointed out that the country’s production sharing formula has not changed and is delivering profits in keeping with the terms of the 2016 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA). Ali highlighted that royalty is paid to the country first, after which the operator deducts up to 75% for cost, with the remaining oil split evenly between Guyana and the contractors. Several stakeholders over the past few days pressed the administration, particularly the Chief policymaker for the petroleum sector, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo and Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat for answers on the development. They questioned the government’s silence on such a major development in the country’s

oil industry and called for a national address on what the recovery of costs will mean f o r G u y a n a ’s N a t u r a l Resource Fund (NRF) or the oil account. O p p o s i t i o n L e a d e r, Azruddin Mohamed last week said in a public statement that the country’s earnings from the sector could triple even as he pointed to importance of prudent use of the resources. The leader of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party stressed, “Oil wealth cannot simply produce impressive economic statistics, bigger government budgets, massive contracts, and greater wealth for the PPP. It must improve the lives of ordinary Guyanese.” Furthermore, he said, “The oil is the people’s resource, and the government is merely its custodian. We must be able to trace the transformation from oil wealth to household wealth. If billions are entering the country while ordinary people continue struggling to afford basic necessities, then something is fundamentally wrong with the distribution of our national wealth.” Mohamed concluded that Guyana’s success must not be measured by how rich

Bandits stab Cuban labourer for his E-Bike A C u b a n l a b o u r e r, Guindo Mestre Yoilan, 49 of Laluni Street, Queenstown, Georgetown is nursing a stab wound to the left side of his abdomen after six bandits attacked him near his home on Tuesday for his electric bike valued at $80,000. The robbery took place around 00:00hrs (midnight), police said. The victim said he was pushing his black E-Bike along Laluni Street when six men approached him from the opposite direction. They tried to grab the bike from him but he held on to it. One of the men armed with a knife stabbed the victim to the abdomen

before he fell to the ground. The bandits then took possession of the bike as they fled the scene. Mestre Yoilan, then used his cellphone to call a friend who came to his assistance

and took him to the Alberttown Police Station where a report was made. He is receiving medical attention at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

the country looks on paper but by how well Guyanese are living. The almost three-week long silence from government also attracted criticism from the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), the former Finance Minister, Winston Jordan and more recently, Chartered Accountant and attorney, Christopher Ram. Kaieteur News reported that the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chairman of Exxon, Darren Woods first revealed during the company’s second quarter earnings call on 31st July, 2026 that Guyana has paid off all US$55B associated with development and operating expenses. Woods however said,

President Irfaan Ali “Delivering on tight schedules, at industryleading cost – with strong reliability and optimised production – has resulted in recovering our capital and cost nearly two years earlier than anticipated, increasing NPV, and desaturating the cost bank.” Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Exxon, Neil Hansen added, “…as we mentioned, at this point, we’ve fully recovered the $55 billion of investment, along with all the operating costs and the way the contractor agreement works is we can recover that investment up to 75%. After that, the

remaining production is shared 50/50 between us and the government of Guyana.” Hansen further noted that the company’s share of oil from the Stabroek Block will decline as a result of the development. ExxonMobil discovered oil in commercial quantities in Guyana’s Stabroek Block in 2015. The company later began producing oil in December 2019. To date, seven oil projects have been approved while only four are currently producing oil. The remaining three are under development with ExxonMobil eyeing two additional developments- its eighth and ninth projects.

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Wednesday August 19, 2026

Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL-TEL: 624-6456 Editor: NIGEL WILLIAMS Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

Beyond belief, totally unacceptable

W

e at this paper report on the unconscionable in Guyana's rich interior. Ordinary Guyanese endure a trial by fire to obtain approval for a small parcel of mining land. They have to wait years, and often walkaway emptyhanded. The politics or the bureaucracy left them high and dry. It leaves a bitter taste. More bitter is the taste when the news hits that foreign companies operating in the goldfields of Guyana are given the freest hand imaginable, gobble up huge acreage of prime mineral lands. Two Australian firms, Altair Minerals and Liberty Metals Ltd, together control a combined 770 square kilometers of prime gold lands in the mineral rich district of Cuyuni-Mazaruni (Region Seven). Many times, the size of Guyana's capital city, Georgetown. It seems to be part of an emerging pattern, what is now becoming ordinary. It is inconceivable that huge plots of land could be obtained by locals, then change hands without restriction, without penalty. To stop this hemorrhage, there must be steps to correct an unacceptable situation. A local group that wins a large concession should submit a business plan as part of its application, including any visions of linking up with a foreign company. We believe that there should be a holding period for these awards, and that only a small fraction of the mining lands awarded should change hands. Further, when these deals are sealed, there should be some immediate benefit to the national coffers. This is too easy, allowed to happen too freely. It is almost an incentive to take the gold lands obtained and hand them over to foreign investors, without so much as a government stamp of approval. The deal that was finalised last year between local conglomerate, Adamantium Exploration, Inc. and Altair Minerals publicly identify the two parties. The same is lacking for the four-year option agreement signed by Liberty Metals and an undisclosed private Guyanese party for the former to operate in the rich Oko gold district. This is troubling on several fronts. For starters, whenever one party to an agreement (a local one) deems it necessary to shroud his or her business in secrecy that raises suspicions immediately, even when such may be without foundation. The fact that someone's identity in something as big as that land deal signed has to be concealed prompts a question. For what reason is such a step thought to be so necessary? It is not a good sign. Who was it that obtained that large tract of gold land that now forms such a huge part of Liberty Metals portfolio of Guyana gold lands? It is no secret that only the wellconnected in Guyana can apply for enormous parcels of mining land, and then leave with official documents detailing their success. To elaborate, the well-connected in Guyana means the politically connected, and there have been examples of those winners. The hiding behind a wall of secrecy raises another worrying issue. Somebody could be fronting for some person high in the Guyana Government. Who could that be? How many more of these front men or front women are around, where these extensive gold lands so swiftly and seamlessly change hands? The fact that the government is quiet, seems to be comfortable with these side arrangements is not in its favour. Is the government also tied up in these arrangements that leave the smaller miners to wonder and lament? How it is that they never come within striking distance of these sweetheart deals that seemingly begin in the heart of the government, and then play out in greater detail in Guyana's rich mining areas. Without a doubt, foreign companies have the capital, expertise, and technology to explore and unearth the mineral riches of Guyana's vast interior. We are saying that the local and foreign partnerships have gone to the stage where they

We must refuse to allow political divisions to distract us from issues affecting every household Dear Editor, Guyanese were made aware as early as July that the nation was entitled to a 50 percent share of oil profits from ExxonMobil. But it was only last week that the Ali/Jagdeo regime came clean and publicly acknowledged what the people already knew. This is not a minor matter. It is further testimony as to why Article 13 of the Constitution matters and why citizens must demand their rightful place in the management and decisionmaking processes of the State. Article 13, which is the political objective of the s o c i e t y, s p e a k s t o a n inclusionary democracy. It does not contemplate a population reduced to spectators while governments make decisions behind closed doors and disclose information only when public pressure makes silence impossible. The implementation of this article becomes even more important when Guyana is dealing with billions of dollars in oil wealth. Our immediate concern must be how the new 50 percent

income should be managed, how those decisions are made, whose voices are heard and whether the benefits reach citizens according to national need rather than political preference. Given the PPP/C's record of deceit and lack of transparency, Guyanese have every reason to demand accountability. Our national resources cannot be treated as the property of whichever political administration occupies office, for they belong to all the people. The PPP/C regime must therefore be held accountable to ensure that our resources—and decisions about spending them—serve the national interest. Development must be driven by established national priorities, with proposals for respective constituencies submitted through their elected representatives and assessed according to need, merit and national importance. What cannot continue is a system in which any administration decides what it wants to give communities and expects people to accept whatever is placed before

them. Guyanese deserve a voice in determining their own development. Government's failure to devise and implement a comprehensive national development strategy is equally troubling. In the absence of a national development strategy conceptualised through the participation of national stakeholders, the people of this nation will be left to the determination of those who see themselves as masters, not servants, of the people. Whereas in the 1990s the country had a National Development Strategy that involved stakeholders, which is probably catching dust on some official's desk, today we have nothing that has the official endorsement of all, not even the National Budget. Meanwhile, billions of dollars in oil revenues are being spent in the absence of a national plan. No measurable priorities. No mechanism through which every Guyanese can see how the country's wealth is being transformed into a better quality of life. Guyana cannot afford the political calculation of self-serving

interests. It is too dangerous a path to pursue and is marred with dire consequences. To avoid this, the people must galvanise around their common interests and demand better. We must refuse to allow political divisions to distract us from issues affecting every household—wages, pensions, healthcare, education, housing, public infrastructure, social services and the escalating cost of living. The call for a living wage and decent pensions must remain central. Workers who contribute to building this country must not spend their productive years working for wages that cannot sustain their families, only to retire into financial insecurity. The cost of living must be brought under control and social services must improve. Even as I say this, it is not lost on me that there is public discourse about people crossing the political floor or aligning themselves with the PPP/C. Freedom of association is a constitutional right, and that (Continued on page 6)

The Saramacca River is a warning Guyana should not ignore Dear Editor, What happened recently along Suriname's Saramacca River deserves close attention in neighbouring Guyana. In June, a major fish kill was reported in the upper reaches of the river. Tests detected cyanide and mercury in water samples, although not above the standards applied by the authorities. Other waterquality parameters were elevated. Investigators have considered a possible uncontrolled chemical discharge, while the wider investigation has also examined possible links to gold-mining activities. As of m i d - A u g u s t , h o w e v e r, neither the precise cause nor a responsible party had been publicly established.

That distinction matters. Environmental protection must be guided by evidence, not accusation. But uncertainty should not become an excuse for inaction. It should encourage precaution, stronger monitoring and greater transparency. For Guyana, the warning from across the border carries particular significance. The Omai disaster of 1995 remains a powerful reminder of what can happen when mining risks overwhelm environmental safeguards. Much has changed since then. Guyana has developed its environmental regulatory framework, with specific rules governing cyanide, mercury, mine effluent and tailings. Major new projects

are now wholesale and executed without any fears of interference or condemnation. This conveys that much power is behind those signing over gold lands to foreigners. When the government is silent and seemingly uninterested in reining in the situation, ordinary Guyanese lose, the country loses, and citizens lose faith. Who and what is involved? Rich national assets are now treated like private property.

can also be subjected to environmental and social impact assessments. Yet regulation on paper cannot, by itself, protect a river. Mining remains a major driver of deforestation in Guyana. Mercury use in small- and medium-scale gold mining remains an environmental and publichealth concern, while sedimentation can damage waterways even without chemical contamination. These pressures are particularly important in the interior, where rivers support food supplies, transport, livelihoods and the cultural life of Indigenous communities. The Saramacca incident therefore raises an important question: 'are Guyana's institutions sufficiently equipped to identify environmental risks early and protect communities with the least capacity to absorb the consequences?' Several actions deserve priority. First, environmental

transparency should become standard practice. Waterquality data, sampling locations, environmental permits, relevant compliance reports and monitoring results should be readily accessible. Communities should not have to rely on rumours when deciding whether their water or fish is safe. Second, environmental monitoring in the interior requires sustained investment in personnel, l a b o r a t o r y c a p a c i t y, transport and technology. I n d i g e n o u s a n d r i v e rdependent communities should also be enabled to participate in monitoring and receive information in accessible forms. Third, the polluter-pays principle needs practical force. Where responsibility for environmental damage is established, those responsible should bear the costs of clean-up, ecological restoration and demonstrable livelihood losses. Financial guarantees for remediation (Continued on page 5)

Wednesday August 19, 2026

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Guyana's Choice: Why WIN's Clarity on the U.S-China Question Matters Dear Editor, Guyana's hedging act between Washington and Beijing has reached its limits. WIN argues plainly which partnership actually protects Guyanese sovereignty and living standards — and points abroad for evidence that saying so out loud, rather than hedging indefinitely, tends to pay off for small, resource-rich states. W h e n Ve n e z u e l a escalated tensions over Essequibo, it was Washington that reaffirmed Guyana's sovereignty and expanded security assurances. Guyana's inclusion in U.S. security arrangements and its ExxonMobil-anchored

economy are concrete. China's role, by contrast, remains commercial — loans, contracts, infrastructure — without a comparable security guarantee. In 2021, a floated Taiwan trade office folded within hours under Beijing's pressure, a small but telling sign of how much leverage Chinese capital can exert on Guyanese policy. Trade data reinforces the point: the U.S. and Trinidad together account for 54% of Guyana's trade against China's 9%. WIN's advocates draw on a handful of examples where explicit alignment, rather than perpetual hedging, is credited with

strengthening a small state's position: Poland post-2015 — explicit Western/NATO alignment combined with a nationalist domestic platform is credited by supporters with faster infrastructure investment and hardened security guarantees after Russia's actions in Ukraine, though critics point to serious ruleof-law backsliding under the same governing party. El Salvador under Bukele — a populist leader who took an unambiguous, U.S-adjacent security posture and saw a dramatic drop in gang violence and a surge in foreign investment interest; critics counter that this came with mass

The Saramacca River is a... From page 4 and mine closure should be sufficient to protect communities even if an operator becomes unable to meet its obligations. Finally, participation must begin before mining starts. The ongoing environmental and social assessment of projects such as Eagle Mountain shows why communities whose land, water or livelihoods may be affected need a meaningful voice before final approvals are granted. Mining contributes significantly to G u y a n a ' s e c o n o m y. B u t m i n e r a l development cannot be measured only in ounces produced, export earnings or government revenues. Its wider social and

environmental costs and benefits matter too, particularly for those living closest to extraction. The lesson from Suriname is not that another Omai is inevitable, nor that mining caused the Saramacca incident before the evidence establishes it. The lesson is that uncertainty becomes more dangerous when monitoring is weak, information arrives late and accountability begins only after damage is done. The Saramacca River is a warning from across the border. Guyana has an opportunity to act before a warning becomes another historical lesson. Sincerely Vincent ROEP

arbitrary detention and eroded judicial independence. Philippines under Marcos Jr. (post-Duterte pivot) — a shift from Duterte's China-tilted hedge toward explicit U.S. treaty alignment amid South China Sea tensions is cited as strengthening Manila's negotiating position with Beijing over disputed waters. Argentina under Milei — an explicitly pro-U.S., antihedge realignment (including a hard break from BRICS overtures) is credited by supporters with restoring investor confidence, though the social cost of the accompanying austerity program remains a live domestic controversy. The pattern these examples are meant to illustrate: small or mid-sized states that stop hedging and state their alignment plainly sometimes extract firmer

guarantees and clearer investment commitments than those that keep both doors open indefinitely. This comparison isn't uncontested, and a fair reading has to include the pushback: Critics note that in most of these cases, the "populist success" is contested even domestically — Bukele's numbers coexist with dueprocess concerns; Milei's investor confidence coexists with real wage losses; Poland's security gains coexist with EU rule-of-law disputes. Small-state alignment has also gone badly: countries that picked a side too visibly (various Pacific Island states caught between U.S. and Chinese overtures, for instance) have sometimes seen aid or investment withdrawn abruptly rather than deepened, since great powers can also punish, not

just reward, explicit alignment. Guyana's own leverage is unusual — its oil wealth gives it more bargaining room than most small states citing similar strategies, which limits how well these comparisons transfer. Whether explicit U.S. alignment actually protects "the lower and middle classes" specifically, versus mainly benefiting the extractive sector and foreign investors, is itself a disputed empirical claim, not a settled one. The question remains which path serves Guyana best — that's ultimately a judgment call about risk tolerance, values, and what kind of guarantees matter most. But the international record is a mixed one, not a clean endorsement, and any honest version of this argument should say so. Regards, M. Shabeer Zafar

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Wednesday August 19, 2026

Youth unemployment rises

…as young people face a harder road to decent work - ILO GENEVA (ILO News) – Global youth unemployment is rising as stagnant economic growth and weak job creation increase barriers to job entry for young people and push more of them outside employment, education or training, according to a new report from the International Labour Organization (ILO). The Global Employment Trends for Youth 2026: Back to the future report shows that the global youth unemployment rate rose to 12.4 per cent in 2025, equivalent to 67 million unemployed people aged 15 to 24 years. At the same time, the share of young people not in employment, education or

training (NEET) increased slightly to 20 per cent, affecting more than 257 million people. Some of the sharpest rises in youth unemployment have been in higher-income economies, frustrating the aspirations of millions of young people at the start of their working lives. Between 2023 and 2025, youth unemployment rates increased in eight of the world's 11 subregions, as slowing economic growth, weak job creation, geopolitical tensions and rapid technological change push countries toward a new youth jobs crisis. A generation that cannot find decent work cannot build its future

with confidence. "A generation that cannot find decent work cannot build its future with confidence. When young people are locked out of quality employment, countries lose talent, productivity and social cohesion. Creating decent jobs for young people is not just a social imperative, it is one of the smartest investments a country can make," said Gilbert F. Houngbo, ILO Director-General. In Northern America, youth unemployment increased sharply, rising from 8.3 per cent in 2023 to 9.8 per cent in 2025. In Northern, Southern and Western Europe, youth unemployment remained

high at 15 per cent in 2025, with 20 of the 29 countries in the subregion reporting weaker job opportunities for young people. The decline of many middle-skilled jobs is making it harder for young people to find stable careers. Jobs that have traditionally provided entry points for young workers – including clerical and administrative roles, service and sales occupations, manufacturing-related jobs and some technical occupations – are shrinking, according to the report. Too few decent jobs in developing economies In developing economies, the challenge remains creating enough decent jobs to absorb growing

young populations. Low unemployment rates conceal widespread labour market insecurity, as many young people cannot afford to remain unemployed and instead enter informal or unstable work. Nearly nine in ten young workers aged 15 to 29 in low- and lower-middle-income countries are employed informally, limiting their access to stable incomes and social protection. The report identifies sub-Saharan Africa as the subregion facing especially strong demographic pressures alongside too few decent jobs, resulting in more young people falling into (Continued on page 21)

Guyana does not belong to them it belongs to all Guyanese Dear Editor, The recent videos posted by the leader of the opposition show claims of the amassing of wealth by Irfaan Ali beyond his legal means, claims of the awarding of overpriced construction contracts to close friends and family members of Ministers and the First Lady. This should remind all Guyanese of concerns previously raised when Forbes Burnham was leading our Nation. Ali may not be linked to the rigging of elections, but the level of corruption claimed by the leader of the opposition is far beyond what was alleged during Burnham's time in office. It is now unclear which of these two leaders has been worse for our

country while in office. The depletion of the natural resource fund (NRF) has been so extensive that even the allegations previously raised against the former "fat boy" seem minuscule in comparison. The problem is that after the squandering of these funds to enable the alleged filling of close friends and family members' pockets the Ali administration would have wasted a once in a lifetime opportunity to improve the lives of all Guyanese for the long term. They have literally and figuratively rocked the boat so much that it has tipped over leaving many Guyanese to die while they allegedly enrich themselves. And who suffers the most? Our first

people the Amerindians. The polluted land left behind from irresponsible undertakings in the mining sector will cause immense harm, especially if we allow the Ali administration to mine for uranium. The opportunity to lay a strong foundation for our nation to build upon is also being wasted due to others using this same opportunity to enrich themselves at the expense of their fellow citizens. Local Government Elections have been delayed because of the negative impact of the recent tragedy and the revelations / allegations of extensive corruption involving senior officials in the government. A clear indication that things are not going well for the

We must refuse to allow political... From page 4 right must be respected. Those who have chosen to move must also note concerns that some see their movement as not necessarily being of free will, but driven by financial inducement, economic pressure or selfinterest. That reality, however troubling, must not intimidate others into abandoning their beliefs. Those who choose to stand outside the corridors of power must have the same constitutional rights and access to opportunity as those who support the Government. Freedom of association must carry with it the concomitant right to be free from discrimination because of political association, race or any other difference from those in power. And this brings me to the point of reminding the parliamentary opposition that it has a responsibility it can no longer evade. Together, they must push for an amendment to the Appropriation Act so that no national budget can be passed without the support of at least 60 percent of all members of the National Assembly. Their actions must be in consonance with the people, more so their supporters, who are equally entitled to their fair share of the national pie. The Guyana Trades Union Congress

(GTUC) has advocated this position for years because it would advance the fundamental objective of the State to forge an inclusionary democracy. A simple parliamentary majority must never become a license to exclude large sections of the population from decisions concerning their own future. Our oil must not become another instrument of political domination, discrimination and marginalisation. But we have to get up and get by demanding more and putting in the work necessary to make it possible. The 50 percent profit belongs to all Guyanese. They are entitled to full disclosure of the nation's resources, transparency in expenditure, equal treatment across constituencies and an economic agenda resulting from meaningful participation of all stakeholders. The resources of this nation are bigger than the PPP/C, APNU, PNCR, WIN, FGM, or any political party or individual politician. They belong to all of us and we, the Guyanese people, are not Guyana's new carpet baggers. We must also recognise and accept that our participation in this nation is not a privilege, it is our constitutional right! Regards Lincoln Lewis

PPP. They are also treating the NRF as though it were their personal bank account, unilaterally changing the withdrawal rules to accelerate its depletion and now they are protecting those who control how most of the funds are spent on development. Edgehill's resignation has not been requested by Irfaan even though global precedent requires it. It should now be obvious to every Guyanese man, woman, and child that based on the evidence provided by the leader of the opposition the current administration is no longer administering the country for the benefit of our citizens and Guyanese businesses. The foolishness has become so extensive that they are even giving away our El Dorado after it has been proven that the value of gold only goes up over the

long term. Now the benefits from the gold mining that should be harnessed to strengthen the buying power of our Guyanese dollar have been gifted for pennies on the dollar to the Canadians, Australians, and other foreign interests who we continue to buy goods from. Making it more expensive for us to purchase instead of making it cheaper for us to develop the housing and construction sectors which depend heavily on imports. The buffoonery / foolishness has reached such a high level that this cabal (a small secret group that plans and plots to gain more power) will be remembered as the group that was taking Guyana to its ruin. Having the government venture into private sector businesses where lucrative opportunities exist is further testament to the Ali cabal's

intentions to take over the best money-making opportunities that arise. Ali and his regime are proving themselves to be bad for business, bad for safety and bad for the future of all Guyanese. We must demand that local government elections be held as soon as possible, and we must vote them out! If the good Doctor and his esteemed wife were around, they would probably refer to Ali and his cabal as enemies of the state. Based on the allegations and evidence presented, what we appear to be witnessing now is an attempt at "State Capture" by the Ali administration. Guyana does not belong to them it belongs to all Guyanese! We stopped Burnham's attempt at State Capture it is now time to stop others who try. With utmost concern, Jamil Changlee

It is time to bring this senseless war to an end Dear Editor, The continuation of the war in Ukraine is deeply troubling. According to conservative estimates, over a million lives have been lost so far from both sides. The so-called "Special Military Operation" launched by Russia which was projected to last for two weeks is now in its 5th year with no end in sight. Meanwhile, the killing arithmetic continues unabated with both sides trying as best as possible to inflict maximum damage on each other with a view to secure battlefield advantage with no regard for human lives. One significant development has been the use of military drones by Ukraine which is reaching deep into Russian territory including Moscow. A number of strategic buildings and energy infrastructure were destroyed including the popular retail giant Blueberries which reportedly has been supplying the Russian military with arms and ammunition. The Russian military has also been using drones and ballistic missiles to inflict damage on Ukraine resulting in numerous civilian deaths, including women

and children. This is indeed a man-made tragedy in the very heart of Europe which could have been avoided had better sense prevailed. It is clear that the decision to invade Ukraine was not only ill-advised but hastily done without due regard to the norms of international law and respect for territorial integrity. Never since World War 2 has there been so much death and destruction. The consequences for both countries are dire and will only get worse unless both countries agree to a peaceful and negotiated resolution. The threat of a nuclear war has never been closer. The international community can do more to end this brutal war, especially China, the United States and the BRICS countries. History will not be kind to those who stood on the sidelines and allow the killing machines to continue along a deadly trajectory. It is time to bring this senseless war to an end. Yes to peace, no to war! Regards Hydar Ally

Wednesday August 19, 2026

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“I have nothing to hide on farm lands” – President Ali …says tour will come at “appropriate time” President Irfaan Ali has doubled down on his rejection of allegations of state-fuelled corruption regarding his farm, declaring that he has “nothing to hide” and that every asset associated with the estate has been fully declared to the Integrity Commission. Addressing journalists at a press conference on Tuesday, the Head of State dismissed claims raised by Leader of the Opposition Azruddin Mohamed concerning the scale and valuation of his farm, located along the Linden-Soesdyke Highway at Long Creek, maintaining that a promised tour of the facility will take place at the “appropriate time.” “The first loan was sometime in 2012,” President Ali stated in response to questions about the property’s acquisition and history. “I’ve said, and again, you repeated the allegation of 150 acres. And I said publicly that it’s not even half of that.” Reaffirming his adherence to statutory disclosure laws, the President emphasised, “I’ve said that I’ve declared every

single thing in relation to my farm to the Integrity Commission and I have a statutory responsibility to do so. Many leaders in the private sector have visited and I said that I would go live from the farm... and at the appropriate time. I have nothing to hide. Every single thing has been declared to the Integrity Commission and it’s not, nothing close.” President Ali further accused the Opposition Leader of deliberately fabricating figures to score political points. “…and the motive of the opposition leader was clearly the falsification of information. And I’ve made it very clear in that release and I have nothing more to add to that... I took loans, documented, and also submitted to the Integrity Commission. I have reinvested and reinvested, and I wish if I could get even 20 percent of what the opposition leader is purporting…” Addressing the claims, Ali dismissed the reported s i z e o f t h e p r o p e r t y, clarifying that the farm spans roughly 60 acres — less than half of what had been publicly stated by Mohamed

The private estate and ranch investment owned by President Ali along the Linden-Soesdyke Highway valued at more than $2.2 billion. Acreage unknown as documents still to be produced.

— and noting that it has been operational since 2012. He further questioned the credibility of the individual making the claims, pointing out that Mohamed is currently under a U.S. indictment and faces severe allegations, including murder and the theft of hundreds of billions of dollars from taxpayers. “In any fair system, credibility is important,” he stated, arguing that the exaggerated land figures demonstrate a broader effort to malign the president and the administration. To counter what he described as reckless and mischievous social media reporting, Ali urged affected individuals to pursue legal action. Utilising the court system, he emphasised, is necessary to establish the facts and hold irresponsible actors accountable, especially given the personal impact on families and children. The President’s comments follow a detailed visual exposé published by Mohamed on his Team Mohamed Facebook page. Standing along what he identified as President Ali’s

private entry road, Mohamed accused the President of rapid, statefunded self-enrichment, alleging the development of a luxury 150-acre estate and ranch investment originally valued at over G$2.2 billion, and recently revised by Mohamed to a current market value exceeding $5 billion. Mohamed questioned how such a sprawling enterprise could be funded on a presidential salary of $3.7 million per month, noting that Ali has spent his entire career in public service. During his video presentation, the Opposition Leader provided an itemised structural breakdown of the infrastructure at Long Creek. Mohamed detailed a 2.2kilometre-long, 17-footwide asphalted entry road estimated at $75 million, supported by a dedicated fleet of heavy machinery, while alleging land clearing, levelling, and forest removal costs for the property amounted to no less than $300 million. Regarding electrical p o w e r, h e p o i n t e d t o infrastructure comprising 70 lantern posts, 210 high-

President Ali during his address voltage isolators, 6,600 metres of distribution lines, and two commercial transformers capable of powering 500 homes, valued at $55 million, contrasting this with neighbouring St. Cuthbert’s Mission, where residents receive limited daily power. Moving to livestock, Mohamed highlighted two climate-controlled, automated poultry tunnel houses rated for a capacity of 80,000 chickens, valued at $170 million to $340 million, alongside an estimated $76 million recurring feed and chick investment per crop. Additional infrastructure outlined includes a $40 million steel-roofed cattle barn housing 200 Brazilian cows valued at $64 million, elevated pens holding 200 black-bellied sheep valued at $18 million, 50 goats valued at $3 million, and shelters for 500 Black Giant chickens and ducks valued at $6 million combined. For residential and recreational amenities, Mohamed pointed to a fully air-conditioned, two-storey concrete vacation residence featuring a wraparound terrace, swimming pool, paved deck, gazebo, outdoor kitchen, and two freshwater benabs, estimated at $165 million, alongside a $60 million man-made circular kayaking circuit excavated into the rainforest creek. Regarding high-value agriculture and aquaculture, Mohamed cited nine longspan hydroponic greenhouses valued at $150 million, seven shade houses with exotic plants valued at $50 million, a 40-acre commercial citrus and fruit orchard valued at $250 million, two commercial floating ring cages for Amazonian Tambaqui fish alongside earthen Hassa ponds valued at $50 million, and a high-capacity well and irrigation network valued at $45 million. F i n a l l y, M o h a m e d calculated heavy equipment

— including three excavators, a roller, a grader, and dump trucks — at $150 million, 11 on-site staff quarters at $60 million, a multi-kilometre treated wire perimeter fence at $50 million, and an estimated monthly payroll of $5 million for a minimum 50person workforce ($180 million over three years). Mohamed further asserted that the Former Presidents (Benefits and Other Facilities) Bill, currently before the National Assembly, was crafted to allow Ali to use state funds for unlimited electricity, water, vehicles, and security to maintain the estate after leaving office. In a swift countero f f e n s i v e y e s t e r d a y, President Ali stated, “How credible is the person making the allegations? How credible are the allegations?” While President Ali has repeatedly pointed to his filings with the Integrity Commission as conclusive proof of compliance, legal observers note that the statutory framework governing the body prevents public verification. Under the Integrity Commission Act (CAP 26:01), the Commission and its staff are bound by a strict obligation of confidentiality regarding all asset declarations and financial assessments. Statutory secrecy legally shields these records from public disclosure, and as a result, independent third parties are unable to examine the President’s filed assets or verify documentation, leaving the public debate centered on political statements and published official rebuttals. President Ali maintained that he remains unfazed by the allegations: “I have took loans, documented, and also submitted to the Integrity Commission... Every single thing that I own has been declared to an Integrity Commission.”

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Wednesday August 19, 2026

Mohameds call on CCJ President to recuse self from extradition case Attorneys representing Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed and his father Nazar Mohamed have called on the President of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), Justice Winston Anderson, to recuse himself from all proceedings concerning their clients, citing former internal judicial leaks and grave allegations of political maneuvering in Guyana. In a 14-page letter dispatched to the CCJ Registrar in Port of Spain on 14th August, 2026, defense counsel: Roysdale Forde SC, Siand Dhurjon, and Damien DaSilva pressed for full disclosure of court records, asserting that their clients’ constitutional right to a fair hearing has been severely endangered. The legal team pointed to international reporting on leaked communications among sitting CCJ judges, highlighting remarks by Justice Jamadar, who spoke of a “toxic” work environment and an “attempt to influence the opinions of colleagues that differed from yours in an authoritative manner” during panel deliberations on the Mohameds’ appeal. The attorneys also referenced internal statements by Justice Eboe-Osuji, who alleged that Justice Anderson tried to “singlehandedly override judicial independence”

CCJ President, Justice Winston Anderson when attempting to announce a court decision contrary to the explicit wishes of a clear majority of the panel. Compounding concerns over internal court dynamics are recent public claims by Leader of the People’s National Congress, Aubrey Norton. In an August 11 interview, Norton alleged that Justice Anderson personally telephoned him to broker

Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed and his father Nazar Mohamed agreement on filling Guyana’s top judicial vacancies, the positions of Chief Justice and Chancellor. Norton claimed Justice Anderson admitted he “was a part of the negotiations” surrounding former acting Chancellor Yonette Cummings-Edwards’ departure and boasted of being physically present “with the president.” Norton further stated that Justice Anderson pressed him to approve government-preferred candidates, allegedly pointing out that “Roxane George was an Afro Guyanese, so you got one” and framing the move as an opportunity for Norton to “put his name in the history books.” The defense emphasised that under Article 127(1) of the Constitution of Guyana, judicial appointments are political decisions requiring agreement between the President and the Leader of the Opposition, leaving no lawful role for the CCJ President. The attorneys argued that such alleged interventions breach the separation of powers and create an indelible impression that the prestige of the CCJ Presidency was brought to bear in service of partisan objectives. With extradition proceedings scheduled to recommence on 3rd September, 2026, for six consecutive hearing days, the legal team stressed that a proposed review by the Regional Judicial and Legal Services Commission offers no immediate relief. Consequently, the defense requested full disclosure within seven days of all internal deliberations, correspondence, and meeting records involving Justice Anderson and Guyanese political figures, while calling on Justice Anderson to state unequivocally whether Norton’s claims are admitted or

denied and to take no further part in their clients’ case. Anderson last week issued a lengthy public statement responding to a series of allegations made against him by fellow judges of the regional court, following reports first published in the Trinidad Express alleging internal turmoil, breaches of judicial protocol and claims that court panels were manipulated to secure particular outcomes in cases. In the statement released on Friday, Justice Anderson said the reports had caused “concern, anxiety and profound sadness” both within the CCJ and across the region, and condemned what he described as the unauthorised leaking of confidential internal deliberations and correspondence. “Such disclosures and their publication are wholly unacceptable and strike at one of the fundamental principles upon which every independent judiciary depends,” he said, adding that the leaks have eroded “public trust and confidence in the third branch.” At the heart of the controversy is a dispute over judicial attire. Justice Anderson confirmed that he removed a judicial colleague from the panel hearing a preliminary application in D’Almada v Trinidad and Tobago in July, after the judge insisted on wearing national dress rather than the court’s traditional robes or business attire during proceedings. The CCJ President said when the founders of the CCJ established the Court, they determined that the longstanding Caribbean tradition of Judges wearing judicial robes during court proceedings would be maintained. He noted that as the Rules of Court did not contemplate hearings conducted “in chambers”, no express provision was made regarding attire in such proceedings. However, he said over time, it became the accepted practice, consistent with a number of Caribbean jurisdictions, including those sending their appeals to us, for Judges to wear bench jackets during interlocutory and chamber matters. “Then gradually it became accepted that CCJ judges would wear business suits/attire when not dressed in robes,” he said in the statement.

Kaieteur News

Wednesday August 19, 2026

PAGE 09

The difference between intervention and interference Some persons have pounced upon an internal controversy within the Caribbean Court of Justice and the subsequent disclosure that the President of the Court, Justice Winston Anderson had become involved in trying to resolve Guyana's long-running judicial impasse over the appointment of a substantive Chancellor and Chief Justice. These critics have been behaving as though the revelation of this involvement is itself evidence of wrongdoing. The issue concerns the failure, for more than two decades, to appoint substantive holders of Guyana's two highest judicial offices, the Chancellor and the Chief Justice. The position of Chancellor and Chief had for many decades been occupied by successive acting office-holders. Under the Constitution, the President appoints both offices only after obtaining the agreement of the Leader of the Opposition. That agreement was elusive for more than two decades. It is important, however, to distinguish between judicial interference and judicial intervention, because the two are not synonymous and the entire controversy appears to depend upon confusing one with the other. In the context of appointments, judicial interference would occur where a judge, or the head of a court, improperly intrudes

into a constitutional process in a manner that usurps, diminishes or attempts to exercise powers belonging to another constitutional actor, such as directing the President whom he must appoint or compelling the Leader of the Opposition to give his agreement. That is not what Justice Anderson appears to have done, at least from what has been disclosed. Nothing in the account of his involvement suggests that he purported to appoint anyone, instructed the President whom to appoint, stripped the Leader of the Opposition of his constitutional role, or otherwise altered the machinery established by the Constitution. The Constitution remains exactly where it was before Justice Anderson became involved. The President retains the power to propose the appointment, while the Leader of the Opposition retains the constitutional power to agree or withhold agreement. The fact that a third party seeks to facilitate agreement between two constitutional actors does not, by itself, amount to an exercise of their constitutional powers, any more than a mediator at a labour dispute becomes the employer or the trade union because he attempts to bring them to an agreement. Indeed, the history of the matter makes Anderson's intervention understandable, even if one believes that he

should have adopted a different method of approaching it. For years, Guyana has endured the extraordinary situation in which its two most senior judicial offices have remained substantively vacant, with successive judges performing their functions in an acting capacity. The constitutional requirement for agreement was introduced precisely as a mechanism to encourage consensus, not to produce an apparently permanent institutional stalemate. And this is where Kamal Ramkarran's defence of Anderson deserves consideration, because Ramkarran does not contend that the CCJ President possesses some mysterious constitutional authority to make appointments in Guyana. Rather he argues that Anderson has a legitimate institutional interest in the strength, independence and stability of a judiciary whose decisions ultimately come before the regional court. That is hardly an absurd proposition, particularly when CCJ is Guyana's apex court and therefore has an obvious interest in ensuring that the national judicial system functions with the permanence and authority expected of a constitutional d e m o c r a c y. O n e m a y disagree with Anderson's judgment about how he should have intervened

DEM BOYS SEH

Is yuh friend, is yuh friend! Dem boys seh, there is nothing more painful than finding out that yuh better half cheating on yuh. Is a pain that does start in yuh chest, travel down to yuh stomach, then stop at yuh head and tell yuh, “Partner, yuh better sit down before yuh fall down.” But imagine when yuh ketch yuh wife or husband with somebody else and that somebody is yuh friend. That is when the pain get upgraded from heartbreak to betrayal. Yuh does ask yourself, “Outta all de people in Georgetown, why my friend?” One man recently ketch he better half with he friend, and social media now behaving like it is a national emergency. People don't know the man from Adam, don't know the woman from Eve and certainly don't know what happened between Adam and Eve, but everybody already pronounce judgment. Dem boys don't know all the facts either, so dem boys staying far from the courtroom. But social media got more judges than the High Court and some of dem got no evidence except a screenshot and a cousin

who “hear something.” This is one reason some men does hesitate to invite dem friends to drink at home, especially when dem got a young wife. Because some friends don't come to drink rum; dem come to drink rum and test the temperature of the marriage. Dem does start with, “Girl, yuh looking good tonight.” Then, “Yuh husband lucky.” Next thing, he offering to help she with something that don't need no help. A true friend should know where the boundary is. But some men see a friend's wife and suddenly forget every lesson they learn in kindergarten about sharing. That is why some friendships end over women. Yuh could forgive a man for borrowing yuh money and not paying it back. But if he borrow yuh wife, dem boys understand why yuh decide to cancel the friendship. And that, friends and family, is another reason why rum shops will never close down. Men does need somewhere to drink where the only thing a friend can steal is the last shot in the bottle. Talk half. Leff half.

without concluding that his objective was illegitimate, and indeed Anderson himself has apparently conceded that a different approach might have been preferable. That concession should be seen as a recognition of prudence rather than an admission of constitutional misconduct, because judges, like everyone else, can acknowledge that an intervention might have been handled differently without accepting that the intervention itself was unlawful. What is curious is that those now most agitated about the CCJ President's involvement seem less troubled by the circumstance that produced it in the first place: Guyana has gone for decades without substantive holders of the two highest judicial offices. The real constitutional question, therefore, is not

whether Justice Anderson had a right to make the appointment, because he plainly did not; the question is whether he improperly interfered with the constitutional actors who do possess that authority. The evidence presently disclosed does not demonstrate that he did. There is a world of difference between taking over a constitutional process and trying to make a constitutional process work, and Anderson appears to have been doing the latter. Those who believe he should have confined himself to speeches are entitled to that opinion, but speeches have been made for years while the problem remained unresolved; Ramkarran's point that Anderson tried to do more than merely lament the situation therefore deserves serious

consideration. Perhaps the controversy should consequently be turned on its head: instead of asking why the President of the CCJ intervened, perhaps we should ask why Guyana's political leadership has required decades of acting appointments before anyone was prepared to seek a different way of resolving the impasse. And onto now we still have an acting Chancellor and an acting Chief Justice, with or without Justice Anderson's intervention. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.

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Wednesday August 19, 2026

From 2019 to 2026 - a billion In over six years, 10 percent of Guyana’s stated oil reserves is gone. There’s confidence that Exxon will find more replacement oil. The company may have come across more proven reserves than it has been saying. But that’s for another day. It is a rather lonely figure that 11.6 billion barrels. Stuck at midnight for several years now. If 10 percent of Guyana’s current oil reserves is out from under the seabed in over six years, then there’s 50+ years of production left. That is, barring new discoveries, which should only be a positive. There is, however, a little number that should have caught the eye of Guyanese who watch these developments. The date and number are part of the fine print.

Guyana announced First Oil in December 2019. Just under five years later, a half billion barrels dug up was the milestone reached in November 2024. Not bad for a new oil producer with almost zero capacity of its own. Now for the uppercut. From December 2024 to July 2026, a total of 18 months, the second half billion barrels were pumped from the sea to the tankers. Now, isn’t that something. From the relatively pedestrian trot of a half billion barrels in 59-60 months, to the gallop of the second half billion barrels in 18 months, give or take. Howzat for acceleration of production! From a quarter million barrels at the onset to closing in on a million barrels daily today. Exxon, with the freest hand from the Government

of Guyana, is going great guns. Exciting numbers that are poised to grow more thrilling by the end of this year, by the end of next year, and by 2029. I take all of those for granted, but do not factor them (yet) into what is about to be shared. With a half billion barrels of oil produced in the last 18 months, that’s a billion barrels every three years, using the current production rate of 870,000 to 900,000 barrels daily. I think that my fellow Guyanese may already have seen what I see, where I am heading. All things being equal (proven reserves remain at 11.6 billion barrels [less the billion extracted], and 900,000 barrels daily, this oil is not going to last 50 years. Thirty years is a fair estimate, albeit a back-of-

the-envelope one. When the yearend project waiting to be keyed in is added, that’s over a million barrels a day. It reduces the lifespan of the reserves. When the other projects, a total of seven in all, are up and running, the daily production rate is slated to be 1.5 million barrels approximately. These are official numbers, not mine. At 1.5 million barrels a day and round the clock (24/7) production that is 547.5 million barrels a year. Unless Exxon hits a big pool of oil, the reserves on hand could be gone between 20 and 25 years. I have every confidence that Exxon will strike oil in a timely manner to refill the

proven reserves bank. Not to mince any words, I believe that Exxon has already latched onto enough reserves to keep the oil flowing out of Guyana well beyond this 20–25-year horizon that I share. To put it delicately, it is purely a matter of timing for the company. I apologise for the approximations and rough estimates, but I work with what is available. A half billion barrels in almost five years, followed by the spectacular production spike to a half billion barrels in just about a year and a half. Production speed increased more than threefold, while proven reserves are stuck at 11.6 billion barrels, one of which is now history.

There will be more oil found. Take my word on that one. It’s what Guyana does with its oil earnings. It will go a long way in making Guyanese feel that there was oil and they shared in a piece of it. Otherwise, this oil wealth could be gone. Poor Guyanese could still be asking themselves if oil was really found here. Then, lament that it never touched them. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper.

No corruption involved in the awarding of the contracts to company linked to President Ali brother – GWI Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) has defended the integrity of its procurement framework, dismissing public allegations from the Leader of the Opposition Azruddin Mohamed alleging corruption and favouritism in the award of several major national water infrastructure contracts to Sigma Engineers Ltd., a firm linked to the brother of President Irfaan Ali. In a statement addressing the claims, GWI rejected any suggestion that it facilitated or condoned corrupt practices. The water utility emphasised that all referenced contracts were subjected to transparent, open, and competitive bidding processes managed by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) in full compliance with the Procurement Act of Guyana and international standards. GWI noted that recorded tender minutes and bid evaluation data remain publicly available through the NPTAB, demonstrating that the awards were based strictly on competitive pricing and technical merit. To counter allegations of impropriety, the utility highlighted the specific bidding outcomes across several high-profile infrastructure developments. The construction of three large water treatment plants, commonly referred to as Lot 3, was awarded through an international competitive tender involving nine bidders. Sigma Engineers Ltd. secured the contract with a winning bid of approximately $3.6 billion, competing against proposals ranging from $3.9 billion to $7.0 billion. GWI noted that related packages, specifically Lots 1 and 2, were awarded to other international firms, including Hi-Pro Ecologicos SA of Mexico and Toshiba Water Solutions of Japan. Similarly, the Hope Surface Water Treatment Plant was procured via international competitive bidding among six bidders. Sigma Engineers submitted the

lowest price among five responsive bids, while the remaining bidder was deemed non-responsive due to a lack of required experience in constructing large surface water treatment facilities. For the drilling of four wells at Friendship, Westminster, Shelterbelt, and Melanie Damishana, the tender process attracted ten bidders. Sigma Engineers posted the lowest responsive bid of $411.6 million, compared to rival bids that spanned from $454.5 million up to $782 million. Regarding the rehabilitation of the Shelterbelt Water Treatment Plant, the contract was also evaluated under international competitive bidding standards. Although another bidder submitted a marginally lower financial proposal, the evaluation determined that the firm lacked the demonstrated experience necessary for a complex surface water facility. Sigma Engineers was therefore assessed as the bestevaluated responsive bidder based on the criteria established before the tender was issued. Under the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) Water Supply Improvement Programme, international competitive bidding guidelines resulted in Sigma Engineers receiving Lot 2 to construct treatment plants at Leguan and Wakenaam. Lots 1 and 3 were awarded to Action Constructions and Equipment of India. GWI reaffirmed its satisfaction with the quality and execution of the ongoing projects, noting that Sigma Engineers has met all engineering specifications, contractual obligations, and delivery timelines. The utility cited the recent drilling of high-yielding production wells completed within two months, a timeline GWI described as an exceptional achievement, as clear proof of the contractor’s technical capacity.

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Wednesday August 19, 2026

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CXC launches new certification programme The headquarters for the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) at Prince Road Pine Plantation Road, Saint Michael, Barbados. [Image courtesy Caribbean Examinations Council Facebook Page]

(CMC) The Barbadosbased Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) Tuesday launched the C a r i b b e a n Ta r g e t e d Education Certificate (CTEC) describing it as a “game changer”. CXC Registrar and chief executive officer Dr. Wayne Wesley speaking at the ceremony where the regional examination body presented the results of its 2025-26 exams to students across the region, said that CTEC pilot in mathematics was “highly successful” in the May-June 2026 examinations. According to CXC, it will present results for the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE), Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC), C a r i b b e a n Ta r g e t e d Education Certificate and Caribbean Certificate of Secondary Level Competence with particular attention being placed on CSEC Mathematics and English, which are compulsory subjects across the region. It said that the Mathematics pass rate increased from 36 per cent in 2024 to 39 per cent in 2025, while the English A pass rate rose from 76 per cent to 80 per cent. However, the English B pass rate declined from 84 per cent in 2024 to 69 per cent last year. “With the approval of our Board of Governors, CXC is pleased to officially launch the C a r i b b e a n Ta r g e t e d Education Certificate, CTEC. CTEC takes the subjects you know, the same syllabus, the same standard, the same rigorous standard, and breaks them down into focus modules that students can master and be assessed on and be certified for stepby-step,” Wesley told the ceremony. “In other words, CTEC is fit, focused, individualised learning. Under its guidance,

under its guiding target framework, every module completed is a credential earned that is banked, portable, and that builds towards the qualification,” he said, adding that if life i n t e r r u p t s a l e a r n e r ’s journey, as life sometimes does, they no longer leave with empty hands. “They have the ability now, or they will leave with evidence of the competence and an open door back into the system to continue and to complete their education. At CXC, we hold to the position that competence is competence, no matter how long it takes to achieve, and no matter the route by which it comes. “ He said CTEC is here to encourage learning, widen the door to certification, and help every Caribbean learner move forward. “As individual countries and as one region, we will keep rising until no learning in the Caribbean is ever wasted again,” he said, unveiling the official emblem of the CTEC, flanked by the Anguilla’s Education Minister, Shellya Rogers-Webster. “May this mark become familiar in every school, in every Caribbean home, and every corner of our community. May it stand for a regional education system committed to nurturing the potential of every learner and guiding that potential towards excellence,” Wesley said. He told the audience that in a global changing environment, it was necessary for the Caribbean “to meet this generation of learners where they are” aware of the need to master complex skills in structured stages every day on their own screens and on their own schedules. “Our children are not less capable than those who came before them. They are differently wired, digital first, and hungry for credentials that

keep pace with their lives. Assessment model built in the 21st century cannot be expected to adequately serve a 21st century generation.” Wesley said that CTEC is assessment redesigned for learners without lowering by a single degree the standard, noting that “when we are designing CTEC, we ask ourselves, would the region embrace it? The May-June session, 2,535 candidates wrote the Module 1 examination alongside those sitting the full CSEC examinations, adding “I am pleased, indeed, and I am proud to announce that of these 2,535 candidates who wrote CTEC Module 1 in the Mathematics pilot examination, 88 per cent achieved acceptable grades”. He said across the entire Caribbean, only one candidate received the lowest grade and that “it simply means that most candidates are benefiting from the approach. “Measured against a generation in which barely one in three candidates succeed in a typical sitting, this achievement represents a remarkable turnaround. Let me be clear. A module is not a whole subject. The full qualification still requires completion of every module at the full standard. But that is precisely what these results demonstrate. “When learning is assessed in focused, achievable stages, our students do more than cope. They excel. They engage, persist, and succeed. The May-June Mathematics pilot proves that the modular approach works for students, for classrooms, and for the region.” Wesley said that this landmark result belongs to the young people who earned it and that the competencies assessed in CTEC Mathematics Module 1 are already embedded in the CSEC Mathematics examination taken by tens of

thousands of young people this year. “Having received that evidence, I am pleased to announce that on behalf of the Council, that approximately 35,000 candidates from that group, May-June 2023 CSEC Mathematics sitting, will be awarded the CTEC Mathematics Module 1 credential.

“This is a new day for our Caribbean learners. On the strength of this CTEC Mathematics pilot, the Caribbean Examinations Council is declaring to our students this simple truth. What you know counts. We hear you. We see you. Your learning has been seen, measured, and certified. “You are not at the end of the

road. You are on your way to the staircase. Up the staircase, rather. The next step is waiting for you. In the age of artificial intelligence and exploding technological innovation, the Caribbean Ta r g e t e d E d u c a t i o n Certificate, CTEC, is here to encourage you to be a lifelong learner and to think for yourself,” Wesley added.

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Wednesday August 19, 2026

CoI to decide Edghill and Indar’s fate …inquiry to begin early September — President Ali President Dr. Irfaan Ali has stated that any administrative or executive action on calls for the removal or suspension of Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill and Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar will depend entirely on the findings and recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the MV Barima disaster. The President’s statement comes amid persistent weekly protests outside the Office of the President (OP) and widespread public calls — from survivors, families still awaiting news of loved ones, civil society, and politicians — for political accountability over alleged systemic negligence and neglected maintenance of the state-owned vessel. Addressing journalists and communications officers at a press conference on Tuesday, President Ali emphasised that he will let the independent body complete its investigation without executive interference or political speculation. “An independent CoI has been established to determine everything that you’re speaking about,” President Ali said. “I am not going to add to speculation or be part of speculation. I believe that if we honestly and truly want an independent analysis, a transparent analysis, then the CoI, having been established, provides that opportunity. That is why the independence of the CoI was critical and important to us. The CoI, having been established, will conduct its w o r k , m a k e i t s determination, its recommendation, and then we’ll take it from there.” President Ali added that he would not prejudice any executive action, apart from immediate measures aimed at addressing maritime safety. “I would not prejudice any action, save and except those that are essential in the period from now to the end of the CoI, which include looking at safety — that is why an independent team has been established, to look at the safety of every vessel, to look at the current gaps and to have those fixed immediately,” he said. “That is as it relates to the MV Barima. I would add nothing more to that. The work of the CoI is the work that I will base my action on when their

Justice Godfrey Smith, Chairman of the CoI recommendation comes to me. I think, having established the CoI independently, we have to have respect for the work of the CoI.” INQUIRY GROUNDWORK UNDERWAY FOR EARLY SEPTEMBER SITTINGS Providing an update on the panel’s operational readiness, President Ali said

Commission took its oath of office on 30th July, 2026, before President Ali and Chief Magistrate Judy Latchman. Headed by former Belizean Minister and jurist Justice Godfrey Smith, the panel was promised full administrative, technical, and financial backing from the State. President Ali’s update follows remarks from Justice Smith, Chair of the CoI, who

President Ali during his press conference advertisements sent out to all the newspapers,” Shadick explained, adding that legal and administrative parameters are being carefully finalised to handle various hearing scenarios. The inquiry stems from the tragic events of 18th July, 2026, when the 87-year-old MV Barima capsized off the Essequibo coast near the Pomeroon while on a scheduled voyage from

procurement pipeline following the close of the Expression of Interest (EOI) window. “I think on Friday, the expression of interest would have closed. They have received a number of expressions of interest,” President Ali said. “Those interests are being shortlisted now by the agency, and then those shortlisted entities will be

Ministers Edghill (left) and Indar the Commissioners have begun setting up their procedural framework and work plan. “In relation to the CoI, the team is in place. They have started looking at their procedures, settling their procedures, and working out their work plan,” Ali reported. “And from what I’m told, in early September, the actual work would commence here on the ground.” The five-member

told Kaieteur News that the panel remains focused on foundational logistics. “ We a r e s t i l l i n preparatory stages, meetings… for now we are still organising ourselves,” Justice Smith said. Secretary to the CoI, Attorney Javed Shadick, confirmed with Kaieteur News that official notices on the schedule and format of public sittings will soon be published broadly. “Usually, it would be

Georgetown to Port Kaituma, Region One. The disaster — one of the deadliest in the nation’s maritime history — left 73 people confirmed dead, 76 rescued, and at least 30 others missing and feared dead. PRICING TO BE SUBMITTED FOR MV BARIMA VESSEL SALVAGE On the issue of raising the sunken vessel, President Ali said the government is advancing through its

invited to supply prices to have the vessel salvaged.” Asked about the total number of applicants, and whether a distinction was made between domestic and international contractors, the President said evaluation remains criteria-based. “I don’t have the exact number. I think it’s 10 or more… don’t hold me to that,” President Ali said. “And I don’t know that there is a distinction between local. I know there was a

criteria, and companies would have made proposals in relation to that criteria. That is why there’s a shortlisting process, to ensure that those companies that meet the criteria are those that proceed.” Providing financial context, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, SC, disclosed during his weekly programme ‘Issues in the News’ that the total cost to salvage the vessel is estimated between US$8 million and US$10 million. According to official Request for Proposals (RFP) documentation published by MARAD, the recovery operation poses substantial engineering challenges. The 38.6-meter ferry lies as a wreck in soft seabed mud at depths of 13 to 15 meters (42 to 49 feet). The RFP notes that visibility at the wreck site is poor, and that strong currents and tidal streams may be encountered at times, requiring robust procedures and equipment for safe operations. Prospective contractors were required to submit methodologies covering all operational stages, demonstrate five to ten years of successful salvage operations in Guyanese or Caribbean waters, and prove technical capability to stow the hull upright on a barge while preserving forensic evidence for the CoI. Leader of the Opposition Azruddin Mohamed had previously issued a public appeal requesting state authorisation to raise the vessel at zero cost to the state, using specialised international salvage teams. Mohamed criticised initial proposals to leave the vessel submerged, calling them “premature and wicked” and an “act of cruelty.” “Families have reached out to me saying they want the bodies of their loved ones, even if all that remain are bones. It will bring closure,” Mohamed said. “The government did not exhaust every possible option. They have not sought out international help with the expertise and equipment to recover that vessel. Yet, they are already talking about turning it into a memorial.” ESCALATING PUBLIC OUTRAGE AND FAMILY DEMANDS These political and legal developments are unfolding against a backdrop of deeply Continued on page 22

Kaieteur News

Wednesday August 19, 2026

GPL under pressure

PAGE 13

…as river cable, East Bank transmission line hit limits

Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar, GPL team lead Kesh Nandlall and other GPL officials at the briefing. Public Utilities and Aviation Minister Deodat Indar on Monday warned that Guyana’s electricity transmission network is under increasing pressure, with a critical cable across the Demerara River already operating at more than twice its safe capacity. Indar said peak electricity demand in Region Three has surged from about 26 megawatts (MW) to approximately 41 MW, placing enormous strain on the cable linking the region to the power system in Region Four. “The cable across the river is taxed. It’s supposed to be carrying a

safe limit of about 7 to 8 megawatts of power,” Indar explained. He said the cable transmitted as much as 15 MW several days ago, placing it at serious risk of failure. “If that cable fries, we’ll have problems in Region Three because the power is transmitted from Region Four through that cable to Region Three,” he warned. To e a s e t h e p r e s s u r e , contractors were mobilised over the weekend to begin installing a second cable beneath the Demerara River. The new cable will run from the Princes Street Substation to the Vreed-en-Hoop

Substation, with work scheduled to begin today. But Region Three is not the only area facing transmission constraints. Indar said the transmission line running along the East Bank of Demerara from Garden of Eden through Timehri to the SoesdykeLinden Highway has also reached its thermal limit. With electricity demand peaking, the overloaded line has been causing trips, creating another vulnerability in the national grid. Government has awarded a contract to Ramotar and Sons to

upgrade the transmission system. The contractor has already begun transporting materials, with pole installation expected to begin by Wednesday. The project will be executed in phases, with the new transmission line extending to Timehri and ending at Soesdyke. Indar cautioned that load shedding will be necessary as sections of the project are constructed. Meanwhile, the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) generation position has improved. As of Friday,14th August, 2026, 256 MW of generation capacity

was available. Following the addition of 9.3 MW in new generation capacity, available capacity has risen to 266.3 MW. With peak demand currently ranging between 235 MW and 240 MW, GPL now has an estimated reserve of about 26.3 MW. The additional generation provides some breathing room, but the transmission bottlenecks underline a growing challenge: Guyana is adding generating capacity faster than it is expanding the infrastructure needed to reliably move that electricity to where it is needed most.

Pass rate in CSEC Math climbs to 34.5%

- Chief Education Officer

…Belladrum Secondary jumps from zero to 81.49% passes Chief Education Officer (CEO) Saddam Hussain has announced an improvement in students’ performance in Mathematics at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) level, with the pass rate moving from 32% in 2025 to 34.5% in 2026. The CEO provided the information at the release of this year ’s preliminary results for the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE), C a r i b b e a n Vo c a t i o n a l Qualifications (CVQ), and Caribbean Certificate of Secondary Level Competence (CCSLC) examinations, held at the Marriott Hotel on Tuesday. In his remarks, he noted that 13,052 students wrote the CSEC examinations in 35 subject areas, and that the overall national pass rate increased to 67% from 66% in 2025. Noting a 2.5% increase in the mathematics pass rate since 2025, the CEO highlighted that several schools across the country recorded major improvements in this subject area. Among the schools he listed: Belladrum Secondary School in Region Five increased from zero passes to 81.49% this year; Leguan

Chief Education Officer (CEO), Saddam Hussain

Secondary increased to 28% passes; Bladen Hall had a 10% increase in Math; Annandale Secondary had a 12% increase; Fort We l l i n g t o n S e c o n d a r y moved from 5% to 82.15%; Rosignol had a 35% increase; Novar Secondary secured 100%; Bartica Secondary increased to 57%; South Ruimveldt Secondary moved from 8% to 60% passes; and Mackenzie High increased to 12%, among others. The CEO noted that several factors contributed to these improved performances, briefly citing the “Mathematics Tents” established to support students and further prepare them for the exams, along

with online classes and the Digital School. “All of that was helped by the fact that resources were provided, never ever limited by the government of Guyana. Request was asked, and it was granted, and resources were provided in textbooks, in geometry sets, in calculators,” he added. Speaking about this subject area in her remarks, Minister of Education Sonia Parag said, “I am particularly pleased with the improvement we have seen in mathematics and additional mathematics; because they tell us that the interventions, we have been making are beginning to bear fruit.” Highlighting the

improved performance at Belladrum Secondary, the education minister noted that the school recorded an overall pass rate of 93.4%. “Over the last year six — this is a school whose overall performance has generally been in the 40 and 50% range. So that is an extraordinary turnaround. Mathematics is now at 81%, English at 75%, and 100% passes in several subject areas. Belladrum Secondary, what you have accomplished this year is outstanding and you deserve the recognition of the entire country,” Parag expressed. During his remarks, the CEO also said that this cohort of students had effectively had four years of secondary education due to the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. He noted that this batch of students had written the Grade Six Assessment in 2021, when a total of 13,821 candidates sat the exam. Of that figure, 13,052 went on to write the 2026 CSEC, representing a retention rate of 97.96%. With a difference of 769 students, the CEO noted that 488 of them had pursued technical education instead of sitting

the CSEC exams. As it relates to CAPE, more than 6,600 candidates wrote the exams across 18 public and private institutions. He noted that the pass rate rose from

91.9% in 2025 to 94.6% this year. N o t a b l y, h e s a i d Diamond Secondary School wrote CAPE for the first time this year and recorded a pass rate of 96.8%.

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Wednesday August 19, 2026

Canadian firm eyes more gold fields in Guyana …already sitting on 37,000 acres Canadian-listed mining company XAU Resources Inc. that is already sitting on over 37,000 acres of mining lands in Region One (BarimaWa i n i ) i s e v a l u a t i n g additional acquisition opportunities within the same gold camp as its Noseno Gold Project. The Noseno Property is located in north-western Guyana in one of Guyana’s most prospective greenstone belts. The project comprises 37 licenses covering 37,623 acres (or 152 square kilometres). XAU’s move to acquire more mining lands is based on the objective to build a larger, consolidated land position with geological continuity. While noting that further updates will be provided, the company stated, “There can be no assurance that any opportunity under review will result in a definitive transaction.” N o t a b l y, X A U i s currently in the process of gaining control of the Quartz stone Gold Project in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) which covers 296 square kilometres of contiguous mining lands. The company is looking to acquire the gold project through the acquisition of the Barbadosincorporated QS Holdings Inc. that is the parent company of local company Qstone Inc. which controls

the Quartz stone project. Noseno is an early stage greenfields project and despite its geological potential it is unexplored. The property is located in the same greenstone terrane (a specific block or fragment of earth’s crust that broke off from one tectonic plate) as Chinese-state owned company Zijin Mining Aurora Gold Mine which is located approximately 46 kilometres to the southeast, and Canada-based Aris Mining 5.4 million ounce Toroparu project, which is located approximately 58 kilometres to the south. In a recent corporate update, XAU noted it is now finalising an updated independent NI 43-101 technical report on the project, prepared by TKT Geoscience Ltd., with an effective date of 24th July, 2026. The report concludes that Noseno’s geological setting is favourable for orogenic, greenstone-hosted gold mineralisation. According to XAU, the company has also advanced geophysical work at Noseno, including the purchase of 5,257 line-kilometres of legacy airborne magnetic and radiometric data from the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC). Notably, the data has since undergone reprocessing by Global

Map showing location of Noseno Gold Property

Venture Consulting, with XAU stating that the dataset will be independently validated, analysed, reimaged and interpreted to

improve geological and structural understanding and assist with exploration targeting. Based on the technical report, a staged exploration programme with an estimated total budget of approximately US$2.4 million has been recommended. The first phase, estimated at approximately US$550,000, would focus on target generation through the interpretation of historical geophysical data, additional stream-sediment and soil sampling, geological mapping and rock sampling.

Meanwhile, the second phase, estimated at US$410,000, would involve about 5,000 metres of trenching to evaluate geochemical and geological targets. Notably, subject to the results of the trenching, the third phase would involve approximately 3,000 metres of diamond drilling at an estimated cost of US$1.12 million. XAU said it intends to advance the recommended programme in stages during the 2026-2027 field seasons, subject to financing, permitting, seasonal and

logistical considerations. F u r t h e r, t h e c o m p a n y cautioned that, as with any early-stage exploration project, there is no assurance that a mineral resource will ultimately be defined at Noseno. Moreover, exploration conducted during 2022 and 2023 included prospecting and Bulk Leach Extractable Gold (BLEG) streamsediment sampling. The work returned clustered gold-instream anomalies and defined three principal and two secondary ranked target areas.

Two miners remanded for armed robbery Two gold miners, Rondel Richardson, 29 of Craig Village, East Bank Demerara, and Ronald Barker, 49, of South Ruimveldt, Georgetown, were on Monday remanded to prison for robbery under arms. They appeared at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Caressa Henry. The duo was jointly charged with the offence of robbery under arms contrary to Section 222(c) of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01. Both men pleaded not guilty and bail was denied. The matter was adjourned to 23rd September, 2026, for continuation.

Ronald Barker

Rondel Richardson

Wednesday August 19, 2026

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Wednesday August 19, 2026

Tagore girl tops at CSEC; QC boy at CAPE

Minister of Education, Sonia Parag on Tuesday releasing this year’s preliminary results of the 2026 CSEC, CAPE, CCSLC and CVQ exams. Preliminary results of the 2026 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) results have revealed that Nitya Narine of Tagore High School in Region Six topped the country securing 26 grade ones and one grade two. On Tuesday, Minister of Education, Sonia Parag joined by education officials released the preliminary results of the 2026 CSEC, Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE), Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (CVQ) and Caribbean Certificate of Secondary Level Competence (CCSLC) examinations. These examinations were all administered by the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC). Joining Narine as the country most outstanding students at 2026 CSEC are: Anushka Singh of Queen’s College who attained 25 Grade Ones and one Grade Two; Shreya Ramnarine of Anna Regina Secondary who secured 22 Grade Ones, six Grade Twos and one Grade Three; Joseph Daniel of The Bishops’ High School who secured 21 Grade Ones; Feiaz Dhanny of Saraswati Vidya Niketan who secured 20 Grade Ones and one Grade Two; and J’Kell Whyte of Queen’s College who secured 20 Grade Ones, six Grade Twos, and one Grade Three. At the CAPE level, among the most outstanding performers are: David Sugrim of Queen’s College who secured 11 Grade Ones and seven Grade Twos; Toreka Persaud of Queen’s College who secured nine Grade Ones; Mahesha Boodhoo of Queen’s College who secured nine Grade Ones; Savannah Bovell of Queen’s College who secured eight Grade Ones; Dave Chowtie of Queen’s College who secured six Grade Ones and four Grade Twos; Affiannce Kellman of St. Stanislaus College who secured six Grade Ones, three Grade Twos, and one Grade Three; and Janee Greene of Mackensie High School who secured six Grade Ones.

NITYA NARINE of Tagore High School who secured 26 Grade Ones and one Grade Two at CSEC based on the 2026 preliminary results.

DAVID SUGRIM of Queen’s College who secured 11 Grade Ones and seven Grade Twos at CAPE based on the 2026 preliminary results. Speaking to a packed audience at the Marriott Hotel in Kingston, Georgetown, Minister Parag emphasised that these results are only preliminary and do not yet identify the country’s top student(s). She stated that the results released by CXC on 18th August are preliminary and candidates now have the opportunity to request reviews, noting that those reviews can result to changes before the results are finalised in the year. More than 13,000 candidates sat the examinations the minister said, noting that Guyana recorded improvement in the overall pass rates at both CSEC and CAPE this year. “It has been an exceptional year with improvements being recorded at all grades. However, as we celebrate this progress we must also be prepared to look carefully at the areas where challenges remain because our responsibility is to keep improving,” the minister remarked. Providing brief remarks on the performances of the various exams, the minister stated that for CCSLC, “I must express how incredibly proud I am of what we have seen from the St. George’s School of Sciences. When the decision was taken to introduce CCSLC it was because the Ministry of Education recognised the need to strengthen that very important period between NGSA and CSEC and to ensure our children are continuously developing and mastering the competencies they would need as they progress through secondary school.” The St. George’s School of Sciences was

ANUSHKA SINGH of Queen’s College who secured 25 Grade Ones and one Grade Two at CSEC based on preliminary results.

SHREYA RAMNARINE of Anna Regina Secondary School who secured 22 Grade Ones, six Grade Twos and one Grade Three at CSEC based on preliminary results.

MAHESA BOODHOO of TOREKA PERSAUD of Queen’s College who secured nine Grade Ones at CAPE based on preliminary results.

Queen’s College who secured nine Grade Ones at CAPE based on preliminary results.

the first public school in Guyana to sit the exam in 2026, the minister explained noting that this year 99.1 % of those students attained either mastery or competence. “It gives us confidence in the direction we are taking as CCSLC expands across the secondary schools with more than 13,000 students expected to sit the CCSLC in 2027,” she mentioned. In relation to CAPE, the minister said that 12 students obtained six or more Grade Ones in the units they sat at the May/ June sitting. She informed however that, “The results represent the performance of these students at one sitting in 2026 and we have not combined their unit one and two performances.” For CSEC, Minister Parag said that the ministry requested a list of the candidates who secured Grade Ones in eight or more subjects and in response, CXC delivered a list of 264 candidates. “Of the 264 candidates that secured eight or more passes, an impressive 78 candidates secured 12 or more Grade Ones. This represents a significant increase from 2025 when 59 candidates achieved 12 or more Grade One passes,” the minister related. As she congratulate students, teachers and parents on the tremendous achievement, in her message to students the minister encouraged that they continue to pursue their education and build their skills and take advantage of the resources available to them either through GOAL initiative, the University of Guyana, the Nursing School or

any of the technical institutions which she said are all free. “To all students, to those of you who have now completed your secondary education, I want you to understand that you have completed one level. The Guyana that is developing before us needs you to continue learning, training, and continue building your skills,” she expressed. The minister continued, “Be hungry about education that is what I will tell you. We often say that education will open doors but it is not merely a metaphor. Education creates real opportunities, changes the choices available to you and gives you greater power over the direction of your life,” she told the students. Further, in her message to those students who may be disappointed with their results, she noted that this is not the end of their journey, “I want you to remember you have the opportunity to go again, try again, and make use of the many resources made available to you.” Extending congratulations to the students, President Irfaan Ali on his Facebook page wrote, “As you celebrate this important milestone, I encourage you to remain focused, ambitious and committed to reaching your full potential. This achievement is not the end, but the beginning of another exciting chapter. Continue building on the knowledge, skills, and values you have gained, and use them as a strong foundation for the many opportunities and successes ahead.”

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Wednesday August 19, 2026

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Trump says no talks planned with Iran (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday no talks were taking place with Iran and insisted the Strait of Hormuz was open, contradicting Iran’s assertion that the critical waterway remained shut to . The receding prospects of a deal to end the nearly six-month conflict drove up oil prices again on Tuesday, while stock markets sagged and borrowing costs for major economies including the U.S. hit multi-decade highs, amid concerns about the long-term inflationary and fiscal impact of the crisis. A temporary ceasefire agreement expired on Monday and a senior Iranian official told Reuters that his country was moving to a “fully offensive” military posture due to the diplomatic stalemate, though there were no reports of fresh strikes by either side on Tuesday. “There are no talks or conversations going on, or scheduled, with the Islamic Republic of Iran,” Trump said in a post on Truth Social. “The Naval Blockade remains in full force and effect. The Hormuz Strait is open and operating. All water mines have been removed or detonated,” he added. On Monday, Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law and special envoy, had struck an upbeat tone, saying talks with Iran were still under way ‘and were “probably more robust” than they had ever been. The nearly six-month conflict, which began with joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran, has settled into a standoff, with Iran continuing to threaten shipping in the strait and Washington saying it could renew attacks if talks do not yield a long-term settlement. Among the top U.S. goals are preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, but experts say that will be difficult without removing the enriched uranium believed to be buried at sites struck by the U.S. military previously. SHIPPING DISRUPTED Despite Trump’s assertions that the situation in the Gulf was improving, countries continued to report attempts to disrupt shipping. The United Arab Emirates’ Defense Ministry said that it detected two ballistic missiles launched from Iran, the first such incident reported since a May 4 strike on the Fujairah port. It later reported that the missiles were targeting “maritime traffic” based on its assessments, according to a statement posted on X. It said both missiles fell into the sea. Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei rejected the comments and said the UAE’s “accusations” were

...Tehran says Strait of Hormuz still shut

Vessels near the Strait of Hormuz, as seen from Musandam, Oman, August 17, 2026. REUTERS/Stringer “baseless.” The UAE Foreign Ministry said it had suspended all trade activities, exchanges and financial transactions with Iran until further notice, citing regional escalation that it said undermined regional and international peace and security. Direct cargo shipping between the UAE and Iran had only resumed in late June via Dubai’s Jebel Ali Port. The UAE had suspended direct shipping in early March, just days after the war began. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations said it a report ‘on Tuesday that a vessel was struck by an unknown projectile while sailing out through the Strait of Hormuz, causing engine room damage and a crew casualty. The Omani Coast Guard was assisting the remaining crew, according to the report. There was no immediate comment from Tehran.

Preliminary shipping data on Tuesday showed ship crossings via the Strait of Hormuz were still in single digits on Monday. To p I r a n i a n n e g o t i a t o r Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said in comments published by state media that the strait would remain shut until the U.S. met the conditions of an interim deal signed with Iran in June. These conditions include the U.S. ending its blockade of Iranian ports, lifting oil sanctions, releasing Tehran’s frozen assets, and ending threats and military operations on all fronts, Qalibaf told parliament. A memorandum of understanding signed on June 17 had set a 60-day time frame for a broader ‘deal on Iran’s nuclear programme and U.S. sanctions. That period elapsed on Monday and Trump said he had no plans to extend it. The agreement, which declared the “immediate and permanent

termination of military operations on all fronts,” had quickly unravelled over a dispute about control of the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow waterway through which a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas flowed before the war. IRAN SAYS IT STILL OPEN TO TALKS Iran remains open to dialogue with the U.S. but does not confuse negotiations with surrender, Mohammad Mokhber, an ‘adviser to Iran’s supreme leader, said on Tuesday, according to the semiofficial Fars news agency. Mokhber said military pressure and sanctions would not break Iran’s resolve and that the country would defend its security, dignity and allies while not seeking war. Even as Iran projects resilience in the war, its leaders are worried that a threat of more economic punishment could increase hardships, reignite unrest and

further erode the Islamic Republic’s legitimacy, according to three Iranian officials. Thousands of people have been killed in the conflict, ‘mainly in Iran and Lebanon. Iran has struck U.S. military bases and infrastructure in countries including Oman, Jordan, Kuwait, Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Benchmark Brent crude oil futures have surged during the conflict, hitting a peak of $126 a barrel, roughly 75% above pre-war levels. Brent crude futures settled up 20 cents on Tuesday at just over $91 a barrel. A U.S. administration official reiterated warnings that Washington could go further on hitting Iran’s economy following multiple sanctions actions. “There are many levers the president can crank harder in the weeks and months ahead.”

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Wednesday August 19, 2026

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Wednesday Thursday November August 19, 24,2026 2022

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37 contractors bid below govt's engineer estimate to build timber wharf at Mahaicony

S

ome 37 of the 44 bidders seeking to construct a timber wharf and shed at Mahaicony Central, Region Five, submitted bids below the government engineer's estimate of $33.7 million for the project. According to information provided by the National P r o c u r e m e n t a n d Te n d e r Administration Board (NPTAB), the project is being executed through the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) at an estimated cost of $33,720,500. Of the 44 bids received, 37 contractors submitted bids below the engineer's estimate, while five bid above the estimated cost. The

forms of tender submitted by two bidders were not completed and signed, and no bid amounts were listed. The project forms part of the $67.6 billion allocated to the Ministry of Agriculture in this year's national budget. Through the ministry, the government has been upgrading several fishery facilities across the country to ensure fisherfolk could ply their trade in more organised and secure spaces. Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha, during the commissioning of a new wharf and shed at the Three Door Koker Landing Site, West Coast Berbice,

Below are the companies and their bids: Bidder JC Mining & Construction Surujpaul Balkaran & Sons Construction Pretam Ragbeer General Construction Services Amelia Construction General Supplies LGS Barnes General Building Construction & Civil Engineering Prestigious Electrical General Construction & Fabrication Naran Construction K.T Fabrication & Construction Qu-Pro Pacific Energy & Engineering Inc R&M Mining Investment Project Inc Khans Construction & Transportation Services Inc Mason's Innovative Construction & General Supplies M.P Persaud & Sons Construction & Maintenance Services Genuine Builders Enterprise Inc Mangroo General Contractor Prosperity Investment Inc VS Group Inc Leprechaun General Construction Maintenance & Supplies M. Jainarain's Contracting and General Supplies Holistic Contracting & Procurement Inc Buju Maintenance Services Andrect Engineering and Construction Anand Singh Construction & Services Copifix Urban Edge Builders Inc J.S Engineering Services & Supplies VS Construction & Rice Industries Mo Min and Sons Construction Abary Investments HE & SAI Investment Mattick's Construction Blue Print Builders Inc Sheriff Construction Inc Persaud Engineering & Hydraulic Services Michael Rodrigues Enterprise Dynamic Pioneer's Logistics and Oilfield Supplies

Amount Tendered $29,579,600 $31,435,500 $28,831,100 $30,127,900 $27,977,750 $32,082,200 $30,405,900 $31,171,200 $26,330,020 $31,361,860 $30,012,800 $31,558,750 $91,056,200 $28,190,160 $29,020,800 $29,212,300 $27,865,000 $30,307,400 $35,212,400 $30,851,750 $32,025,200 $31,876,400 $27,009,010 $35,098,800 $28,407,650 $28,538,045 $27,931,200 $28,614,950 $29,427,900 $28,926,600 $32,098,800 $40,173,900 $30,024,860 $30,971,150 $35,829,060

Landing site at Central Mahaicony.

last year, said upon assuming office, the government recognised the importance of fisherfolk and had prioritised improving their working conditions through the Fisheries Landing Site Enhancement Project.

“It commenced in 2023, costing over $300 million, targeting over 100 landing sites across the country through the construction of washroom facilities, sheds, wharves, solar lighting, ramps, and office buildings. Again, in 2024,

another $300 million was expended for the enhancement and development of all Fisheries Landing Sites in Regions Two, Three, Four, Five and Six, benefitting over 300 persons,” he explained at the time.

President Ali mulls opposition, civil society to scrutinise bids for contracts By Davina Bagot Government spending this year has jumped a massive 307% compared to spending just five years ago in 2021. Guyana’s budget in 2026 reached $1.558 trillion compared with $383.1 billion in 2021. A significant chunk of the revenue passes through the National P r o c u r e m e n t a n d Te n d e r Administration Board (NPTAB), making it increasingly important for systems to be put in place to scrutinise the use of money from the national purse. To offer an added layer of scrutiny in light of the massive growth in contracts being awarded through NPTAB, the government of Guyana (GoG) is considering including the opposition and civil society on the board. This was revealed by President Irfaan Ali on Tuesday in response to media questions. In his opening remarks, the head of state told reporters that government will roll out a modernisation of the national procurement system. He said before the end of this year, an e-procurement system will be completed and integrated. According to the president, this would include a digital bidders’ register, an e-tender life cycle module, a national e-tender portal and an e-market place. “Now this will remove all of the need for the massive papers and move from a paper based system to a complete electronic system that is trackable throughout the process,” Ali explained. Additionally, he said the digital bidders register which already exists at NPTAB will be expanded to include details on supplier/ contractors such as beneficial ownership, GRA and NOS compliance, classification (small, medium or large), past performance,

debarments and suspension. With regards to including opposition and civil society members on the tender board, Ali sought to explain that there the body already features multi-stakeholders with little involvement by government. He said, “Remember in terms of the decision-making of the contract, the present law is that the evaluators and the tender board make a recommendation. The government or cabinet has no role in saying that this contract will be awarded. We can offer a no-objection or not, so that is the current system. The tender board itself is made up of multistakeholders, persons representing private sector, different interests. So that is already there in terms of the tender board.” As such, he noted that when government moves to launch the digital platform, it will require amendments to the procurement law to give effect to systems such as blacklisting of contractors that fail to deliver on time among others. At this stage, he said government can review the law to include representatives from the opposition

and civil society. “The modernisation of the procurement system is ongoing. A major component is the digital procurement system. When that is completed, it will necessitate amendments in the legislation. We already have a board with multistakeholder representation...what we can do is to look at the representation that is there and to see whether it is adequate given the growth that is taking place or whether we need to amend and add on to what is there because of the load of work and the growth and expansion in projects,” the President explained. In this year’s budget, $145.2 million is set aside to support the strengthening of NPTAB. The A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Members of Parliament (MP)s Ganesh Mahipaul and Christopher Jones in March 2025 submitted a motion to the National Assembly to seek an amendment to the procurement act to include members in the work of the NPTAB. The motion stressed that it is Continued on page 22

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Opposition leader picks nominees for Local Govt. Commission By Khadidja Ba M i n i s t e r o f Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, has directly engaged the Leader of the Opposition to formally initiate key constitutional consultations regarding appointments to three major bodies, the Local Government Commission (LGC), the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), and the Public Service Commission (PSC). Official correspondence seen by this newspaper reveals that Minister Teixeira wrote directly to the Leader of the Opposition, Azruddin Mohamed, on 24th July, 2026, on behalf of the President to initiate the consultation process for appointments to the commissions. Regarding the Local Government Commission, Teixeira referenced Section 4(1)(b) of the Local Government Commission Act 2013, noting that the tenure of the body had expired. She advised that the Commission shall consist of, inter alia, three members appointed by the President acting on the advice of the Leader of the Opposition after consultation with other parliamentary parties, requesting that Mohamed consult accordingly and advise the Head of State. In response to the letters dated 7th August, 2026, signed on behalf of the Opposition Leader by Opposition Chief Whip, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, the Office of the Leader of the Opposition formally conveyed that following consultations with other parliamentary parties, the Leader of the Opposition officially submitted his advice to President Ali. Rather than selecting the nominees recommended by APNU, Ronald Daniels and Joan Ann Ramocindo, WIN chose to select its own representatives alongside another Forward Guyana Movement. The Leader of the Opposition formally advised that Leola Narine of WIN, Leslyn Lowe of WIN, and Nicholas Chesney of FGM be appointed as members of the Local Government Commission. Addressing why APNU’s recommended candidates were bypassed for the LGC, Mohamed explained: “We have other Commissions, we selected who we believed best fit.” Across all three letters, Minister Teixeira noted that Ali intends to make a decision on or before Continued on page 21

...FGM in, APNU candidates left out

Formal response dated 7th August, 2026, from Opposition Chief Whip Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, MP, detailing the Leader of the Opposition’s submission of Leola Narine, Leslyn Lowe, and Nicholas Chesney as recommended members for the Local Government Commission following inter-party consultations.

Letter dated August 7, 2026, signed by Opposition Chief Whip Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, MP, confirming receipt of the executive’s proposed nominees for the Public Service Commission and their supporting curricula vitae.

Letter dated August 7, 2026, from Opposition Chief Whip Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, MP, acknowledging receipt of Minister Gail Teixeira’s proposal regarding the appointment of Retired Justice Carl Singh, C.C.H., O.R., to the Judicial Service Commission on behalf of Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed, MP.

Letter dated 24th July, 2026, from Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Gail Teixeira, MP, formally proposing Maurice Rudranauth Gajadhar, Melcita Bovell, and Leila Ramson for consultation pursuant to Article 200(1)(a) of the Constitution of Guyana.

Kaieteur News

Brazil's President Lula hails oil discovery near Amazon river (BBC NEWS) Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has hailed the discovery of oil near the mouth of the Amazon river. Speaking after the find was announced by Brazil's state-run oil company Petrobras, he said it could be "a passport to the country's future". His decision to allow exploratory drilling in the area known as the Brazilian Equatorial Margin was heavily criticised by environmentalists, who raised concerns that any potential oil spills could devastate its ecosystem. Lula, who is running for another four-year term in elections scheduled for October, stressed that he was still committed to eventually phasing out fossil fuels to curb climate change. The oil discovery was made in the sea about 175km (110 miles) off the Amazon coast but the size of the field is not yet clear. It is also still unknown whether extracting the oil, which is located at a depth of 2,886m (9,469ft), would be commercially viable. Conservationists have warned that the area where the exploratory drilling is taking place is very biodiverse. They fear that any accidents could threaten not just the nearby reefs but that currents could carry s p illed o il to co as tal wetlands teeming with wildlife. Lula has in the past rejected criticism by conservationists as "meddling" and on Monday he again said that he would not accept any foreign interference. "This means

Lula held up a vial containing oil found as part of the exploratory drilling national sovereignty. Any country which has oil of this quality won't allow anyone to butt in," he said. Petrobras started the exploratory deep-water drilling operation in the area in October 2025. The company's chief executive Magda Chambriard said that the discovery confirmed that Petrobras's "optimism" of finding oil in the Brazilian Equatorial Margin had been warranted. She added that the company was committed to "ensuring the country's energy security". P r es id en t Lu la h as argued that oil revenues are needed to help fund Brazil's transition to non-fossil fuels. Speaking on Monday, he insisted: "I'm not denying my commitment to the fight for a day when we no longer need fossil fuels, because Brazil will continue to be the king of biofuel innovation and will remain a major player in renewable energy." Environmentalists were aghast when Lula announced he had given Petrobras the green light to start the exploratory drilling just weeks before the COP30 climate conference hosted

by Brazil last November. In his remarks on Monday, the president made a reference to the anger at the time, singling out opposition in Europe in particular. "Many people didn't want me to announce that Petrobras had won the licence because they said that the Europeans would be annoyed," he said. "I took the decision to announce that people wanted to do exploratory drilling there before COP because the interests of our country and our company were at stake." The prospect of oil discovery off the coast has already given a boost to the nearest town. In Oiapoque, in Amapá state, the hope of jobs and opportunities has led to an influx of people, according to the local housing authorities. With less than two months to go before the presidential election, Lula will be trying to attract voters hoping for economic development in this remote part of Brazil without alienating those concerned about the potential impacts on the environment.

Opposition leader picks nominees... From page 20 14th August, 2026, requesting responses by 7th August, 2026. During a press conference on Tuesday, President Irfaan Ali confirmed that formal written correspondence had been dispatched through Teixeira. Addressing journalists, Ali reaffirmed his administration's commitment to adhering to constitutional protocols. “Minister Teixeira has written on different matters that constitutionally we should write on in relation to the Leader of the Opposition…and those matters are being dealt with. So wherever consultation is required in accordance with the Constitution, as I have said before, you can be assured that I will fulfill my mandate in accordance with the Constitution of Guyana,” President Ali stated. In addition to the LGC, Teixeira's correspondence addressed the expired Judicial Service Commission and Public

Service Commission. Citing Article 198(2)(a) of the Constitution following the conclusion of the previous body's tenure on 13th July, 2026, Minister Teixeira informed the Opposition Leader that President Ali proposes for consultation the appointment of retired Justice Carl Singh, C.C.H., O.R., as a member of the Commission. Writing in response, Sarabo-Halley confirmed that the Leader of the Opposition acknowledges receipt of the correspondence and notes the President's proposal. Further, citing Article 200(1)(a) of the Constitution following its expiration on 13th July ,2026, Teixeira stated that President Ali proposes for consultation the appointments of Maurice Rudranauth Gajadhar, Melcita Bovell, and Leila Ramson. The Opposition Chief Whip confirmed that the Leader of the Opposition notes the President's proposed nominees, together with the submitted curricula vitae.

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Bandits snatch CIOG cash after zip-tying security guard

The CIOG building on Woodford Avenue. Bandits armed with a knife and crowbar reportedly zip-tied a 63-year-old security guard during the wee hours of Tuesday before breaking into the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) building on Woodford Avenue and escaping with a significant amount of cash. Police have not disclosed the amount stolen but said the robbery occurred around 2:10 a.m.The security guard, Dennis Ragnauth, had reported for duty at about 7:00 p.m. Monday.Ragnauth told police that while conducting routine checks around the CIOG compound early Tuesday morning, he was confronted by four men wearing ski masks and hoodies. One of the bandits reportedly placed an object against his back. Fearing that it was a firearm and that he might be shot, Ragnauth said he froze and did not resist. He recalled that one of the men was carrying black plastic straps, which were used to tie his hands in front of him. The bandits then relieved him of his $25,000 cellphone and ordered him to lie on the ground. One of the men remained behind to guard him while the other three proceeded to the CIOG building.

About an hour later, Ragnauth said, the three men returned and left the compound with the lookout.He waited for approximately five minutes to ensure that the men had gone before getting up and managing to free one of his hands from the zip-tie. Ragnauth then made his way to the nearby Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO) building, where he called out to the caretaker, 69-year-old Barrat Parbu. When Parbu responded, Ragnauth reportedly told him that gunmen were in the compound. Parbu subsequently contacted his employer, while Ragnauth returned to his post at the CIOG building. Police were later called in and launched an investigation. According to police, a glass window on the western side of the CIOG building was broken and the security grill was wrenched upwards. Investigators believe the suspects used that opening to gain entry. The bottom flat of the building was ransacked, and cash reportedly kept in a drawer was stolen. Police also reviewed surveillance footage, which showed the suspects entering the compound by jumping over the southern fence. Investigations are continuing.

Youth unemployment rises From page 6 NEET status. The Arab States and Northern Africa continue to record the world's highest youth unemployment rates. In 2025, youth unemployment stood at 26.2 per cent in the Arab States and 22.6 per cent in Northern Africa. In both subregions, at least one in three young people were NEET. The report finds that technological change, including advances in artificial intelligence (AI), is transforming opportunities for young workers. It estimates that 6.1 per cent of jobs held by young people aged 15 to 29 are in occupations highly exposed to AI-related changes. Many of these overlap with the middle-skilled occupations that have declined in number for young people since 2023, particularly clerical and administrative roles. At the same time, demand continues to grow in some

knowledge-based technical occupations in fields like science, health and engineering, highlighting the importance of ensuring that young people have access to the skills that match evolving labour market needs. “There is increasing noise around AI,” said Sukti Dasgupta, ILO Director of the Employment, Skills and Sustainable Enterprises Department. “While the direct impact on jobs is still unclear, we must not be complacent and underestimate the risks. We need to step up our investment in skills, lifelong learning and social protection so that young people can adapt to change and seize new opportunities. Technological progress, including AI, must work for young people, not against them.” The report calls for renewed action to help young people navigate an increasingly uncertain world

of work. Key policy measures include: adopting a human-centered approach to AI governance, ensuring that innovation creates opportunities rather than deepening inequalities; investing in quality education, lifelong learning and apprenticeships; strengthening employment services and labour market institutions to support young people's transitions into work, targeting especially young women; expanding social protection and ensuring rights at work, particularly for young people in vulnerable situations; and creating more decent job opportunities through supportive macroeconomic and sectoral policies. The report concludes that the challenge is not only to create more jobs for young people, but to ensure that these jobs provide s e c u r i t y, d i g n i t y a n d opportunities for successful transitions into adulthood.

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Guyana's six regional hospitals have demonstrated the impact of major investments in the country's healthcare system, with thousands of surgeries, more than one million laboratory tests, and hundreds of thousands of other diagnostic and specialist services delivered. Speaking at a press conference at the Office of the President, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali highlighted the scale of services provided at the facilities, including approximately 3,700 surgeries, more than one million laboratory tests, 82,200 X-rays, 37,700 ultrasounds and 13,680 CT scans. More than 101,000 specialist clinic attendances were also recorded, covering services including surgery, gynaecology, dentistry, ophthalmology and ENT, while approximately 2,400 babies were delivered and nearly 280,000 prescriptions were filled. The president said the figures demonstrate that the investments in regional healthcare are producing tangible results for citizens. “These investments have revolutionised health care in our country. If you speak to people who utilise these services, predominantly, overwhelmingly, they will tell you all of the positive stories,” the president stated. He also pointed to wait-

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- Pres. Ali ing times as a key indicator of improved service delivery, noting that the average waiting time across the six hospitals is approximately 10 minutes for emergency care and 30 minutes for outpatient services. Among the individual facilities, Diamond Regional Hospital recorded the highest inpatient and surgical workloads, with 4,705 admissions and 967 surgeries, and conducted 4,797 CT scans. Enmore Regional Hospital recorded the highest outpatient

activity, with 36,670 visits, and the highest X-ray workload, at 21,131. The president said the hospitals' laboratory services have also been significant, with one regional hospital recording more than 351,000 laboratory tests and another conducting more than 289,000. He acknowledged that challenges remain within the healthcare system. He said these should be viewed in context, stressing that the overall performance of the facilities and their medical teams has been exceptional. “Overwhelmingly, the performance of these hospitals, the medical teams, the lab teams, the

nurses, has been exceptional,” President Ali noted, commending healthcare workers for working around the clock to improve patient care. The head of state further disclosed that several major hospital projects are progressing, including the Morocco Hospital, which is 46.5 per cent complete, and the Cato Hospital, which is 51.9 per cent complete, both described as being almost on target. The investments, he said, are continuing to strengthen healthcare delivery and expand access to quality services across the regions. (DPI)

CoI to decide Edghill and Indar’s fate From page 12 emotional public demonstrations. Outside the Office of the President in Georgetown, grieving relatives and civil rights organisations continue to rally, demanding rapid physical recovery of the hull and executive accountability. Among the demonstrators were relatives of Neil and Kenrick Cort, both still unaccounted for within the submerged wreckage. Neil Cort, 57, had operated the ferry’s canteen for 37 years; his brother Kenrick, 53, was on board assisting him. Collin Solomon, 54, serving as family spokesperson, strongly condemned the administration’s timeline. “We gather out here to express our dissatisfaction about the government’s slow pace and their ineffec-

tiveness towards bringing closure to our loved ones who have not been recovered,” Solomon told members of the press. “It is very uncaring of the government to say that they need two weeks to negotiate for people to bring up this boat. It’s an emergency, and they should be able to bring an urgent effort.” Solomon pointed to years of alleged maintenance neglect aboard state ferries, saying the official pace reflects a lack of urgency. “Because the President is not in that boat, no Minister is in that boat, and none of their family is in that boat, they do not care,” Solomon said. “If their family was in that boat, it would have been up already. We demand justice. We demand accountability.” The demonstrations have

expanded beyond individual families. During peak traffic hours, citizens including representatives from the Amerindian People’s Association (APA) and multi-ethnic civil society allies gathered outside the Office of the President. Holding placards and chanting “Raise the boat now” and “Accountability begins at the top,” demonstrators underscored that the disaster disproportionately impacted riverine and Indigenous communities in Region One, who depend on state maritime infrastructure for basic survival. Protesters emphasised that salvaging the hull is essential — not only to return remains to grieving families, but to preserve forensic evidence critical to the CoI’s upcoming mandate.

President Ali mulls opposition, civil ... From page 19 essential to ensure that all segments of the society, including the parliamentary opposition, are able to contribute to and oversee the procurement process, fostering a spirit of inclusivity and strengthening the overall trust of the public in the government’s actions. As a result, the motion highlighted the need for the participation of the leader of the parliamentary opposition in the NPTAB to provide an additional layer of scrutiny, enhancing the transparency and accountability of the procurement system and ensuring that the views of the

opposition are considered in decisions that affect public spending and procurement policies. The motion states “Be it resolved, that the Procurement Act of 2003 be amended to include, as part of the membership of the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), one member nominated by the leader of the parliamentary opposition. This would serve to ensure a more balanced representation in the NPTAB, fostering greater accountability and contributing to the continued strengthening of Guyana’s democratic pro-

cesses.” As a result, it called on the Government of Guyana to initiate the necessary legislative amendments to the Procurement Act of 2003, thereby aligning the NPTAB’s structure with the democratic principle of broader participation in governance, particularly in the vital area of public procurement. Mahipaul told this newspaper on Tuesday evening that the motion did not reach the order paper in parliament but he intends to resubmit upon the reconvening in October. In a brief comment, he insisted that all state boards and commissions that require accountability, transparency and good governance to prevail must include opposition representatives. He said, “We are of the opinion that proportional representation should prevail. In the same way it is allowed in parliament, it should flow into all boards that exist to enhance transparency and accountability and build trust with the Guyanese people.”

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Defending champion Dataman among 10 top horses for Guyana Cup feature

T

he elite horses for the feature race in Guyana Cup was confirmed on Monday evening during the post position draw at AC Hotel by Marriott. Defending champion and Master Z talisman, Dataman was drawn in the first gate. The competition will be fierce on Sunday August 23, at Rising Sun Turf Club, as Slingerz Racing Stables lined up three horses for the feature; including former Guyana Cup champion, Olympic Kremlin, and debutants Olympic National and Vitruvian. The Master Z/Jumbo Jet Racing stables have also

lined up a star-studded core, with Stat running in gate two, alongside Dataman. Js Racing Stables have also lined up new faces for the Guyana Cup and the race will have five new horses lined up. The horses and their respective gates for the feature race at the Guyana Cup are; Dataman, Stat, Frontline Warrior, Mapa Do Brasil, Olympic Kremlin, Olympic National, Santorini, I'm Sam, Vitruvian and Sand Pipes. The post position draw was also graced by Minister of Culture Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, and Minster of Tourism Susan

Rodrigues. Both Ministers lauded the growth of the Guyana Cup, and outlined the positive impact it brings to the sport and tourism sector. Minister Ramson was delighted with the legislation being passed, and he explained the passion and d r i v e H i s E x c e l l e n c y, President Irfaan Ali has shown in the sport of kings. The organizers for the Guyana Cup have also presented plaques to Minister Charles Ramson and Stuart Gonzales for their dedication to the horses racing fraternity. Gonzales was specially recognized for his contribution in the breeding i

Wednesday August 19, 2026 LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19 Aries, if there's something Don't worry about being interesting that you've wanted productive today, Libra. You to try, this is a great day for it. might still accomplish more Adventure brings excitement, than you have in a long time.

creative flow, and energy, which are essential to you.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) With today's energy, you can take steps toward getting things in order, Taurus. Tackle desk drawers, closets, storage rooms, or filing cabinets.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Today's energy can have you feeling ready for anything, Gemini. Given your more radical approach, you may need to keep in check.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) It's obvious how much you like to dream, Cancer. Certainly, this is an important part of your existence. Realize that there comes a time when you must face reality. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Your ability to find innovative approaches to things may serve you well today, Leo. Strong energy and mental acuity continue today, and you'll find that most things come easily.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Expect an added boost of physical energy today, Scorpio. It's an excellent day to clean out closets. Exercise like yoga or walking will be most enjoyable SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) If certain projects or tasks have seemed difficult for you to finish, today's energy will give you the zip you need, Sagittarius. The energy indicates that things will go well for you once you get started. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Yo u m i g h t f e e l m o r e energetic than you have in a long time, Capricorn. A powerful energy that increases your mental acuity and physical strength. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) If there's something you've wanted to take on, Aquarius, today's the day. There's an increase in your physical and mental strength.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22)

If long-overdue work has piled up, Virgo, today is the day to dig in. This is especially so for things you weren't able to handle yesterday. Fortunately, you have added strength and mental acuity. Things will go smoothly. Make the most of this energy by not putting off anything.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) If you've been feeling sluggish lately, this will be a welcome day for you, Pisces. You'll feel a surge in energy that greatly increases your creativity and physical strength. Seize the opportunity to be outside for sports or a walk.

ndustry. A total of 14 races will be running at this year's Guyana Cup and more than G$66 million in cash and prizes will be paid out. First race is set for 9:00h start sharp at Rising Sun Turf Club. Jagdeo Racing Stables have also added new horses to their roster, ensuring this year's Guyana Cup will be an unforgettable one. The feature race which will be the Banks Guyana Cup will fetch a purse of G$22 million. General admission tickets are $5000, VVIP experience is $25,000 and Private VIP Decks are $500,000. A brand new four-door SinoTruk pick-up will be up for the taking from the raffle exercise. The raffle ticket locations are located at Jumbo Jet office in Smyth

Street, Js Supermarket, Js Outlet, and Poonai's Pharmacy. The raffle ticket cost only $2000. This Guyana Cup will be one of significant difference with the event being for the entire family. A kid zone will be on place and a host of prizes will be rewarded on the day. The Guyana Cup also has additional parking, and more screens at the venue to offer a more visible and enjoyable race day. The races will be only 45 minutes away from Georgetown and fans from across the Caribbean are expected to be in attendance to witness the most highprofile racing event in Guyana's history. The races for Guyana Cup 2026 are: Banks Guyana Cup (One M i l e ) - To t a l p u r s e

G$22,500,000 Peter Lewis Guyana Cup Sprint (5 ½ Furlong)- Total purse G$7,500,000 Forrester's Imported Derby (One Mile)- Total purse G$7,500,000 Mohamed's Excavating Sir Balaji Derby (One Mile)Total purse G$5,625,000 J's Imported Juvenile Fillies Sprint (5 ½ Furlong)Total purse G$3,750,000 BM. Soat Locally Bred Dash (5 ½ Furlong)- Total purse G$2,812,500 P. Jagdeo E-Class (One M i l e ) - To t a l p u r s e G$2,812,500 Jagmohan F-Class (One M i l e ) - To t a l p u r s e G$1,875,000 ARONCO H-Class (One M i l e ) - To t a l p u r s e G$1,875,000 C.I. H3 N.W.3 (One M i l e ) - To t a l p u r s e G$1,875,000 Avinash Local Maidens (One Mile)- Total purse G$2,812,500 Big G's J-Class (One M i l e ) - To t a l p u r s e G$1,875,000 Garen Pro K-Class (One M i l e ) - To t a l p u r s e G$1,875,000 Sawh L Class Sprint (One M i l e ) - To t a l p u r s e G$1,875,000

Essequibo set for... From page 33 champions will claim a $500,000 first-place prize funded by Shawn's Mini Mart. Jaigobin Hotel is sponsoring the $200,000 runner-up prize, along with $50,000 payouts for each losing semi-finalist. Furthermore, Scoop Ride Inc. continues its tournamentwide support by providing $25,000 to each of the four losing quarter-finalists. Admission is free to all grounds across both days, with a fully stocked bar, giveaways, and family entertainment planned to encourage local communities to come out in full support. The Essequibo champions will earn their place alongside Berbice Zone winners Grillmaster Sip N Play AllStars and East Bank/West Demerara Zone champions Mahdia (Movements Family). After this weekend's leg, the tournament will observe a scheduled hiatus for the closing stages of the Caribbean Premier League before resuming on September 26 for the Georgetown/East Coast Demerara Zone.

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Minister Ramson visits GCB's LBI Facility as rehabilitation plans advance GCB President Bissoondyal Singh (centre) makes a point to Minister Charles Ramson Jr during his visit.

Minister Charles Ramson Jr and GCB president Bissoondyal Singh arrive at the facility.

M

inister of Culture, Yo u t h a n d Sport, Hon. Charles Ramson

Jr., paid a visit to the Guyana Cricket Board's LBI Cricket Facility, where plans are advancing for the

rehabilitation of the indoor practice facility and hostel. The indoor facility has long played an important

role in the preparation of Guyana's national teams, providing players with the opportunity to sharpen their technical skills and maintain vital practice, particularly during the rainy season when outdoor training is often affected.The LBI hostel, together with the Essequibo Cricket Board Hostel, is also used to accommodate cricketers and match officials during Inter-County tournaments, national encampments and other

cricket development programmes.Earlier this y e a r, G C B P r e s i d e n t Bissoondyal Singh engaged His Excellency President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali regarding the rehabilitation of both cricket facilities, highlighting their importance to the continued development of the game. While at LBI, Minister Ramson also took the opportunity to interact with parents and young cricketers, as the Demerara

Cricket Board Under-13 Tournament was in progress. Several GCB executives and match officials were present during the visit, including GCB President Bissoondyal Singh. The Guyana Cricket Board is extremely grateful to President Ali and his administration for delivering on this commitment, which represents another important investment in cricket development and infrastructure across Guyana.

Weigh-in set for Thursday as Xavier Investment Inc. supports Caribbean Schoolboys and DCB T10 Tournament Juniors Boxing Championships The Demerara Cricket Board (DCB) has saws, while also supplying internationally compliant received a timely donation from Xavier personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard ready for opening bell Investment Inc. in support of its upcoming T10 hats, respirators and life jackets.

T

he final preparations for the 2026 Winfield Braithwaite Caribbean Schoolboys and Juniors Boxing Championships will intensify tomorrow, Thursday morning, when boxers from across the region assemble at the Tower Hotel for the official weigh-in ahead of the three-day tournament. The weigh-in is scheduled for 7:00 am on Thursday, August 20, at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, where the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) will host the championships from August 20–22. Guyana will welcome young boxers from St. Maarten, Trinidad and Tobago, St. Lucia and The Bahamas with the regional contingents expected to battle for honours across the various schoolboys and junior weight divisions. The championship, which has become one of the Caribbean's leading developmental boxing competitions, was conceptualised and first hosted in Guyana in 2016. It is named in honour of Winfield Braithwaite, Guyana's 1978 Commonwealth Games gold medallist. GBA President Steve Ninvalle has welcomed the strong regional response to this year's championships, describing the competition as an important component of the continued development of amateur boxing in the Caribbean. He added that the tournament has provided young fighters with an important platform to gain international experience while testing themselves

against opponents from across the region. “Over the years, it has provided our young boxers with invaluable international exposure and has become one of the region's premier developmental competitions,” Ninvalle said. The official weigh-in will be particularly important as fighters must satisfy the requirements of their respective weight divisions before the competition gets underway. It will also provide coaches and team officials with the opportunity to complete the final administrative preparations ahead of the opening bouts. The GBA has been working to ensure that all organisational arrangements are in place for the championships, with Ninvalle expressing confidence that Guyana will once again deliver a successful staging of the regional tournament. The competition's significance extends beyond the medals and regional bragging rights. Since its inception, the Caribbean Schoolboys and Juniors Boxing Championships has developed a reputation as an important stepping stone for young fighters aspiring to compete at the highest levels of amateur boxing. A number of boxers who have used the tournament as an early international platform have subsequently progressed to represent their countries at major events, including the Olympic Games and World Championships.

cricket competition, further strengthening the Board's efforts to attract corporate support for the development and promotion of cricket across Demerara. Xavier Investment Inc. is a multidisciplinary Guyanese company based in Georgetown, providing a range of services and products to clients in Guyana and the wider Caribbean. The company's operations include general contracting and project management, with expertise in road, residential and commercial construction. Xavier Investment Inc. also supplies professional-grade tools and worksite supplies, including hand and power tools, fasteners, HVAC equipment and construction consumables.Additionally, the company provides heavy equipment sales and rentals, including generators, compactors and concrete

Its services extend to property maintenance, including landscaping, plumbing, electrical works and HVAC servicing for both residential and commercial properties. The Demerara Cricket Board expressed its appreciation to Xavier Investment Inc. for supporting the T10 competition and for demonstrating confidence in the Board's cricket-development programmes. The DCB noted that corporate partnerships remain an important component of its efforts to provide more competitive opportunities for cricketers, improve the standard and presentation of its tournaments, and strengthen the overall development structure of cricket in Demerara. The Board welcomes Xavier Investment Inc. to the growing group of corporate partners supporting the DCB T10 competition and looks forward to a productive relationship.

Dwayne Dodson of Xavier Investment Inc. hands over the cheque to Demerara Cricket Board Vice President Puneet Jaigopaul, flanked by Competitions Committee Chairman Avishkar Ramgobin, Latchman Yadram, and Coach Kumar Bishundial.

Kaieteur News

Wednesday August 19, 2026

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Mahdia beat Eccles to secure spot at National Finals in Lotto/Let'sBet T10 Tapeball Mahdia (Movements Family) dethroned 2025 zone champions Eccles All-Stars in a tense, highscoring encounter to secure an eight-run victory in the East Bank/West Demerara Zone final of the Lotto/Let'sBet One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast on Sunday at the Meten-Meer-Zorg Community Centre Ground. Batting first in the showpiece clash, Mahdia laid down a formidable marker by posting 128 for 5 in their allotment of 10 overs. The innings was built on a collective top-order contribution, headlined by Andy Lall's aggressive 31. Devendra Latchman provided valuable support with 21, while Ershaad Ali (19), Andrew Gibson (18), and an unbeaten late cameo from Orrin Gibson (18*) ensured Mahdia set a challenging total. Nandkumar Ramanan was the standout bowler for Eccles, taking 3 for 29, but could not completely stem the run flow. Eccles All-Stars mounted a spirited title defence in response, led by a blistering half-century from Akeim Vieira, who smashed 55.Solid contributions from Andrew Lim (25) and Quazim Yusuf (20) kept Eccles well in touch with the required rate, setting up a thrilling finish. However, Mahdia's attack showed steely nerves under pressure.Gavin Moriah claimed 3 for 26 and Sanjay Algoo picked up 2 for 27, striking at vital intervals to

Mahdia (Movements Family) dethroned 2025 zone champions Eccles All-Stars in a tense, high-scoring encounter Mahdia (Movements Family) dethroned 2025 zone champions Eccles All-Stars in a tense, high-scoring encounter.

halt Eccles' momentum and restrict former champions to 120 for 8 as the overs ran out. Earlier in the day, both finalists produced dominant semi-final performances. Mahdia made light work of Airport SVC, restricting them to 67 for 9—thanks to a stingy spell of 2 for 4 from Devendra Latchman alongside two-wicket hauls from Algoo and Moriah—before racing to 70 for 2 in just four overs powered by Andy Lall's 39. In the other semi-final, Eccles brushed aside Village Rams by seven wickets, chasing down a target of 101 in only 5.4 overs as

Vieira hammered an unbeaten 52. The zonal triumph earns Mahdia G$500,000 and a spot in the National Finals at the Anna Regina National Stadium on October 11, where they will face Berbice Zone champions Grillmaster Sip N Play All-Stars. Eccles took home G$200,000 courtesy of M.S. Roshandin Group of Companies, while losing semifinalists Village Rams and Airport SVC received G$50,000 each from Camille's Academy, and quarterfinal losers pocketed G$25,000 courtesy of Scoop Ride Inc. Attention now turns to the Essequibo Zone, where 16 teams

battle from August 22–23 for the next spot in the finals. On Saturday on the Essequibo Coast, matches will be held at 10:30h, 12:30h, and 15:30h, with venues at Pomona, Affiance, Anna Regina National Stadium, and Hampton Court. On Sunday, August 23, the zone finals are from 14:30h at the Anna Regina National Stadium. The tournament is also backed by KFC Guyana, Office of the President, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Banks DIH Ltd, Star Rentals, Avinash Contracting and Scrap Metal Inc., S&K Imports, I&S Trading, Impressions

Branding, Regal Stationery, SAWA Investment Inc. Betcabana, Shawn Mini Mart, Trophy Stall, ENet, Supreme Transportation Inc., ETS – Environmental Technical Solutions Inc., Windsor Estates, Smart Choice Pharmacy, G Mining Ventures, V-Net Technologies, Guyana Oil Company Limited, Camilles Academy, 3D Lee Hub, Trinchloro, Superbet Guyana, Guyana Cup, The Laundry Chute Inc., Bernies Pharmacy, Mannol Oil, Montra Restaurant and Lounge, Continental Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n I n c . , D & S Ramdehol and Sons Jewellery, and Navin and Son Construction.

Sri Lanka top order falters, India sense victory (Reuters) - India set Sri Lanka a daunting target ​of 372 before reducing the hosts to 84-4 on day four of the opening test in Galle on Tuesday, remaining firmly on course for victory. Sri Lanka's top order faltered for the second time in the match against India's disciplined attack, ending the day 288 runs short of the target with six wickets in hand. Sri Lanka captain Dhananjaya de ​Silva was batting on 31 at stumps with first-innings centurion Sonal Dinusha on 25. With a first-innings ​lead of 178, India came out with clear intent in their second innings, looking ⁠to plunder runs rather than accumulating them as they sought to leave enough time to bowl Sri Lanka ​out again in the rain-affected test. Although wickets fell regularly, Rishabh Pant smashed an entertaining 66, while Devdutt Padikkal made ​44 and KL Rahul added 35 as India were bowled out for 193 just before tea. India suffered an early setback when Asitha Fernando had opener Yashasvi Jaiswal caught behind for a three-ball duck. Rahul successfully overturned an LBW decision but threw away his ​wicket when he charged down the track to spinner Prabath Jayasuriya and attempted to clear mid-on.

Manav Suthar struck early to rattle Sri Lanka's chase. (AFP/Getty Images) Jayasuriya also ​removed India captain Shubman Gill, who followed his first-innings score of 16 with eight.Padikkal was trapped lbw by Keshara Nuwantha. The hander ⁠reviewed the decision but was unable to overturn it.

EFFECTIVE KNOCK Pant produced a typically cheeky but effective knock to extend India's lead. The left-hander struck eight fours and two sixes, scoring nearly at a run-a-ball. After being struck on the helmet by a

Lahiru Kumara bouncer, Pant pulled the next delivery for four before being caught behind off ​Kumara attempting his trademark fallingaway ​pull shot. Pant became the ⁠first Indian batter and fourth overall to hit 100 sixes in test cricket. Sri Lanka were forced into a change after Dinesh Chandimal injured his neck and shoulder while ​trying to save a boundary. Chandimal was taken to hospital for precautionary scans, ​ w ith Pasindu Sooriyabandara ⁠playing his maiden test as a concussion substitute.Mohammed Siraj bounced out Nishan Madushka for six and spinner Manav Suthar trapped the debutant lbw first ball. Sooriyabandara was initially given not out, but Suthar persuaded captain Gill to review the ⁠decision and ​the verdict was overturned. Kamindu Mendis did not last long either, edging ​Prasidh Krishna to first slip as Sri Lanka's top order quickly unravelled. De Silva, then on seven, got a huge reprieve when he edged ​Ravindra Jadeja to slip but the spinner had overstepped. Scores: Sri Lanka 284 and 84 for 4 (de Silva 31*, Suthar 2-30, Siraj 1-11) need 288 runs to beat India 462 and 193 (Pant 66, Padikkal 44, Asitha 4-41).

Wednesday August 19, 2026

Kaieteur News

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Chinese Association of Guyana Backs Archery Guyana Ahead of Historic October Championships The Chinese Association of Guyana has thrown its support behind Archery Guyana as the Federation intensifies preparations to host the 2026 Caribbean D e v e l o p m e n t Championships in Guyana this October. The support was formally handed over at the Chinese Association of Guyana's Brickdam office, w ith President of the Chinese Association of Guyana, Mr. Stephen Su, representing the Association. The gesture comes at a critical stage in preparations for what promises to be one of the most significant international archery events to be hosted in Guyana. Archery Guyana is preparing to welcome athletes, coaches, judges and officials from across the Caribbean and the wider region for the October championships. For Archery Guyana President Mrs. Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon, the support represents far more than a contribution to an upcoming sporting event. “Hosting an international championship is never the work of one federation alone. It requires a country, its institutions, businesses, communities and supporters to come together with a shared belief in what Guyana can achieve. We are deeply grateful to President Stephen

Su and the Chinese Association of Guyana for recognising the importance of this championship and for standing with Archery Guyana at this important moment.” She added that partnerships such as this demonstrate the increasingly important role of community and private-sector support in building sustainable sport. The Chinese Association of Guyana has a longstanding presence in Guyana and has continued to contribute to national development and community initiatives. Under the leadership of President Stephen Su, the Association has also participated in partnerships aimed at strengthening cultural, social and economic engagement in Guyana. The upcoming championships will provide Guyanese athletes with the opportunity to compete on home soil against regional competitors while giving the country the opportunity to demonstrate its capacity to host international sporting events to a high standard. Mrs. Persaud-McKinnon stressed that every contribution towards the championships has a direct impact on the Federation's ability to deliver the event professionally. Archery Guyana extended its sincere appreciation to President

Dindyal, Amsterdam... From page 29 wickets) of New Campbellville Secondary comes in at number 2, tied alongside teammate Ricardo Danesar, who also has 11 wickets but sits in third. National youth player Justin Dowlin of the Essequibo Islands has returned 10 wickets to date for his current holding of 4th place, with DeJonge capping off the list at 5th place with 9 sixes. Most Fours (580 tournament 4s) Amsterdam heads up this list with 35 fours to his credit, followed by number 2 on this list, Fredericks, who could easily sneak to number 1 after being tied on 34 as well. Lower Corentyne's Nathaniel Ramsammy comes in at 3rd with 31 fours, followed by Dejonge in the 4th spot with 30 fours and Nicholas Madramootoo, also of Lower Corentyne, sealing off the list with 17 fours under his belt. Best Wicket-Keepers The tournament has also seen some brilliant glove-work by the youngsters, who have shown their skills behind the stumps at a decent age, with Marcanthony Obermuller of Abram Zuil leading the pack with 4 Dismissals. Number 2 on the list of leading wicket-keepers to date is Imtiaz Ali Annandale Secondary with 4 Dismissals, followed in 3rd place by Antonio Forde of St. Stanislaus College with 3 Dismissals.Spots 4 and 5 respectively are held by Sahid Gajnabi of JC Chandisingh Secondary (3 Dismissals) and Essequibo Islands' Jimaul Whyte, who also has 3 Dismissals. Meanwhile, today's Playoff Qualifier game between Annandale Secondary and Abram Zuil is set to be a huge clash at the Enterprise Ground, with the winner booking a spot in the finals.

President Stephen Su of the Chinese Association of Guyana, right, at the handover ceremony to President Vidushi PersaudMcKinnon of Archery Guyana.

Stephen Su and the Chinese Association of Guyana for their confidence in the Federation and for supporting the continued development of archery in Guyana. The Federation also called on other members of the business community, civil society and the wider Guyanese community to join the growing circle of partners

supporting the October championships. “ We a r e b u i l d i n g something that belongs to Guyana,” PersaudMcKinnon said. “And we want Guyanese businesses, organisations and communities to see themselves as part of this story. When the first arrow is shot in October, it will represent not just the athletes

on the shooting line, but everyone who helped us get there.” President Stephen Su said the Chinese Association of Guyana was pleased to support Archery Guyana and its efforts to host the 2026 Caribbean Development Championships and the Inaugural Caribbean championships. “The Chinese Association of

Guyana is proud to support Archery Guyana as Guyana prepares to welcome athletes and sporting representatives from across the Caribbean. International sporting events such as this are not only about competition; they are also opportunities to bring c o m m u n i t i e s t o g e t h e r, encourage our young people to participate in sport, and showcase Guyana to the region and the wider world. We believe that supporting initiatives like this is part of our responsibility as a community organisation, and we are pleased to play a small part in helping Guyana successfully host this important championship.” He added: "We wish Archery Guyana every success with the October championships and hope that this partnership will encourage more organisations and businesses to come forward and support the continued development of sport in Guyana.”

Prashad fires 68 as Promotech & Danny's Auto Sales NTFGL round #6 heats Late-season charge by Prashad, PUR Persaud and Vijimoor tightens championship race

T

he National Top Flight Golf League (NTFGL) Tour #2 championship race intensified dramatically on Sunday as Round #6, sponsored by Promotech Guyana Inc. and Danny's Auto Sales, produced outstanding performances at the Lusignan Golf Course. With the course returning to excellent playing condition following the wet season, golfers battled through a highly competitive round that saw Patrick Prashad emerge as the standout performer, while Patanjilee Persaud and Bala Vijimoor mounted significant challenges to the established leaders. Prashad delivered the round's most impressive performance, carding a superb Net 68 to capture overall honors and earn eight championship points. He was particularly dominant on the back nine, where he fired an exceptional net 32, securing another two points and completing a spectacular 10-point haul for Round #6. The victory proved crucial for Prashad, who moved into third place overall with 16 points, just two points behind championship leader Anand Persaud. Patanjilee Persaud also produced an excellent performance. He recorded a net 35 on the front nine, edging Bala Vijimoor on the tiebreaker to secure the front-nine honors and two points.Persaud continued his strong play over the

Prashad (right) alongside one of the sponsors Maxim Mangra (second right) of Danny's Auto Sales and LGC Member Videsh Persaud. remainder of the course, finishing with a net 69 to claim second overall and five additional championship points. His seven-point haul significantly strengthened his position in the Tour #2 standings. Vijimoor was equally competitive. After narrowly missing out on the frontnine honors, he remained composed and finished with a net 71, securing third place and three valuable championship points. Mike Mangal finished fourth with a net 73, earning two points, while Videsh Persaud secured the final championship point by finishing fifth. The results have created a thrilling situation at the top of the Tour #2 standings. Anand Persaud leads with 18 points, followed closely by Maxim Mangra with 17, Patrick Prashad with 16, and Joseph Szeplaki with 14.

With only four points separating the top four players, the championship remains wide open heading into Round #7. The next round is scheduled for Sunday, August 23, at Lusignan Golf Course, where the leading quartet of Anand Persaud, Maxim Mangra, Patrick Prashad and Joseph Szeplaki are expected to tee off together. The NTFGL Tour #2 now heads into Round #7 with the championship finely poised, as the leaders look to hold their ground while a determined group of challengers continues to close the gap.Round #6 was made possible through the valued sponsorship of Promotech Guyana Inc. and Danny's Auto Sales, whose support continues to contribute to the growth and development of competitive golf in Guyana.Pic - A victorious Patrick

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Wednesday August 19, 2026

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MOE/Beharry Secondary School's Under-19 T20 tournament…

Dindyal, Amsterdam, Fredricks, Griffith among stats leaders Annandale Secondary and Abram Zuil in huge clash at the Enterprise Ground today The nationwide Ministry of Education/Beharry Holdings U-19 Secondary School's T20 Cricket tournament has taken the country by storm, with some of Guyana's brightest youth prospects headlining a number of the statistical charts, with the race for individual supremacy also heating up ahead of the upcoming finals. The tournament has been building nicely since it began back in early June, gaining significant traction and momentum at a steady pace, while allowing some of the best U19 talents to shine brightly, with the final road leading to the finals. The tournament recently wrapped up some intense knockout games, which have so far seen the best of the best emerging as the 8 zonal winners. After the last eight teams managed to essentially secure their spots in the Group A and B final stages, the action intensified, with the push to book the two spots in the final becoming increasingly tougher for the remaining teams. All eyes will also be on the individual performers, most of whom have been dominant either with bat or ball, for a few both; as several youngsters will be keen on finishing the tournament possibly not with the title alone but the individual accolades to go along with such a historic competition. MVP Race Leading the race for the MVP award is the dynamic Ruel Dindyal of Annandale, who currently sits on 707 points, followed by Abram Zuil's Ravid Fredericks with 588 points. The youth stars of Berbice Educational Institute have been ultra-dominant, as three of their players control spots 3-5, controlling the majority of the stake within the current MVP tussle. All-rounder Brandon Grimmond occupies the 3rd spot with 462 points, while the highlytalented Gilbert Griffith holds down the 4th spot with 455 points, followed by batting sensation Luke Amsterdam rounding off the 5th spot with 417 points. Most Runs BEI have also managed to control some real estate in the race for the coveted Most Runs Award, with Amsterdam racking up 362 Runs at a strike rate (S/R) of 130.7, including two half-centuries and a best of 114*. Fredericks, who was stuck in the 90's twice, one time unbeaten,

has kept Abram Zuil in the mix statistically with his 283 Runs coming at a brutal S/R of 153.0, featuring a best of 92, which accounts for one of his two fiftyplus scores. Number 3 on this list is Lemuel DeJonge with his 271 runs, batting at a S/R of over 150.0; he has 3 fifties this tournament, with his best being an unbeaten 90. Lower Corentyne Secondary's Nathaniel Ramsammy, with 191 Runs, slammed a vicious 160, which was one of the better knocks of the tournament thus far, to earn his 4th place, as Dindyal wraps up the 5th spot on this list with 182 runs, including one fifty and a best of 62 not out. Beharry Group of Companies Schools U-19 T20

Most wickets D i n d y a l , h o w e v e r, h a s managed to take the bowling charts for himself with his 17 wickets coming at a good economy rate of 2.8 while his 5-4 are some of the best returns of the entire competition. His teammate Grimmond has also been brilliant with the ball, trailing the number one spot by just 2 scalps with his 15 victims and best haul of 5-10 keeping him close to a hunt for possibly ending as the leading bowler. Number 3 belongs to the National U19 left-arm spinner, Griffith, who has been a revelation in youth cricket ever since bursting onto the scene before cementing his position as one for the future, further showing his class by raking

in some 14 wickets to date with a best of 4-9. Another national youth allrounder, Bomesh Lall of Essequibo Islands Secondary sits in 4th place with 11 wickets, including top returns of 5-5, with his teammate Aarav Sukhram sealing the number

5 position with 11 scalps and one of the best hauls of the tournament, 51. Most Sixes (175 Tournament 6s) Led by the in-form Fredericks with 14 maximums under his belt thus far, Mickel Johnson (11 (Continued on page 28)

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Wednesday August 19, 2026

Kaieteur News

GFF Youth Ensemble U13 National Championship Playoffs continue with tight contests on Monday.

Defensive battles highlight GFF U13 National Championship Playoffs

Part of the action on Saturday between Cougars FC and Kuru Kururu FC. Photo: Playoff. Intense competition continued in the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Youth Ensemble Under-13 National Championship Playoffs on Monday, as several teams edged closer to the coveted national title. Following Saturday's opening round, the National Training Centre (NTC) once again provided the stage for a series of tightly contested encounters, although the day's sweltering conditions appeared to contribute to a low-scoring affair. Goals proved difficult to come by, as regional champions battled fiercely resulting in all three matches ending in goalless draws as clubs showcased disciplined defensive performances throughout day two action. Gladiators FC and Cougars FC battled to a 0-0 stalemate in a competitive encounter, with neither side able to find the decisive breakthrough despite creating opportunities. Gladiators were involved in another scoreless affair later in the day, sharing the points with Kuru Kururu FC. Kuru Kururu's Emmanuel Reid was booked in the 36th

minute, but both teams maintained their defensive shape to preserve the clean sheets. On the East Coast, Buxton Stars FC and Timehri United FC also finished 0-0, adding to a day dominated by defensive resilience and tactical discipline. The U13 National Championship brings together the leading youth clubs that emerged from competitions organised by the GFF's nine Regional Associations, giving the young footballers an opportunity to compete against some of the country's best teams in their age group.The championship forms part of the GFF's broader Youth Ensemble Programme, which is aimed at strengthening Guyana's player-development pathway through structured competition and increased playing opportunities for young footballers across the country. With the national title now within reach, competition is expected to intensify as the remaining fixtures unfold and teams battle for the opportunity to be crowned Guyana's U13 national champions.

Pegasus Weekly Chess... From page 32 members of the media and the inaugural players.On the chessboard, Round One produced several decisive results. Ryan McKay opened his campaign with a victory over Martin, while Jessica Callender defeated Owen Mickle. Keron Sandiford got past Oluwadare Oyeyipo, and Raymond Sookdeo secured a win over Sachin Beharry. Sreebalakumar defeated Annastaysha Marcano, while Davion Mars recorded a victory against Jaden Taylor. Odinnie Reece was awarded a point after being listed without an opponent. Following the opening round, Reece, McKay, Sookdeo, Callender, Mars,

Sandiford and Sreebalakumar share the lead with one point apiece. Oyeyipo, Beharry, Marcano, Martin, Mickle and Taylor remain on zero points, with six rounds still to be contested. The League's rating system will operate independently of FIDE and national ratings, providing a persistent performance rating based specifically on games contested within the Weekly Chess League. With Round One now completed, the Pegasus Weekly Chess League has its first standings, first results and the beginning of individual player histories. Round Two is scheduled for Monday, August 24, at the Oasis Building, Pegasus Hotel.

Kaieteur News

Wednesday August 19, 2026

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Basil Butcher Memorial Trust Fund – 2026

RHTYSC cricket teams hosts successful 7th edition of programme ​ T he memory of the legendary Basil Fitzpatrick Butcher, who died in December, 2019 in the United States of America, continues to be kept alive by the cricket teams of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club. The teams over the last two months have shared out over five million dollars worth of items to youths, churches, fellow sport clubs and schools across Berbice and the Berbice Cricket Board under the seventh e d i t i o n o f t h e RHTYSC/Basil Butcher Memorial Trust Fund. The Trust fund was organized by the assistance of numerous

included the distribution of close to one thousand school bags with educational materials to students at the primary and secondary levels. The materials included hard cover school books, normal exercise books, pens, pencils, erasers, sharpeners and rulers. The cricket teams also distributed a total of twenty two cycles across Berbice with the main aim of assisting them to attend school or cricket practice. A total of nineteen electronic tablets and eleven personal laptop computers were also shared out to youths across the county while the

Donation to the St. Francis Roman Catholic Church for their Vocational Bible Studies

The St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic Church received over two hundred thousand dollars worth of items including a cycle, thirty school bags, educational material and ten special gifts for a quiz competition during the Vocational Bible Studies. The Berbice Cricket Board received a collection of trophies while numerous schools received trophies, framed certificates and medals for their graduation ceremonies. ​ O rg a n i s i n g C r i c k e t Manager Robby Kissoondall stated that the value of all the items shared out under the

Cycle donated to Pensioner Rajpaul Baljit.

Cricket gears to a promising Under 12 player Jarrel Grant.

Medals/Trophies for Guyana Fire Service – Rose Hall Town. friends of the five times Guyana Cricket Board Club of the Year Awardee and also a friend of the family. ​The teams – Poonai's Pharmacy Under 12 and 13, Farfan and Mendes Under 15, Bakewell Under 17 and Second Division, Pepsi Under 19 and Intermediate, Metro Females and the Namilco Thunderbolt Flour Under 21 and first division started the Memorial Trust Fund in 2020 with the support and blessings of the Butcher's family including his wife Pamela and children. Over the years, hundreds of youths have benefitted from donation of sport gears, educational materials, uniforms, household items, bicycles, electronic gadgets and food hampers etc. ​This year edition was organized under the supervision of Club Secretary Hilbert Foster, Organising Secretary Keith Hicks and Cricket Manager Robby Kissoondall and

RHTYSC Cricket teams also organised several activities as part of the Basil Butcher Trust Fund. They included the Droupattie Ramsammy Tr i b u t e t o S t u d e n t s , Heeralall Seenerine M e m o r i a l Tr i b u t e t o Teachers, Tribute to Medical Workers, Tribute to Medical Doctors, Tribute to Fathers, Tribute to Mothers, Francois Crutley Grade 6 Summer Camp and the annual cricket academy. ​Several churches and school also benefited from donations of food hampers, trophies, medals, sport equipment and educational materials including the St. Francis Roman Catholic Youth Club, Rose Hall Town Nursery School, Rose Hall Town Primary School, St. Agnes Anglican Church, Berbice Cricket Board, Scottsburg Cricket Club, Guyana Fire Service – Rose Hall Branch, Port Mourant Public Hospital and the Beyonce Ross Memorial Athletics Committee.

Five students receive new bicycles.

2026 edition of the Basil Butcher Memorial Trust Fund was about five million dollars. He stated that the Club was privileged to honour Basil Butcher, a close friend to the RHTYSC for over twenty years. He noted that the legendary West Indies middle order batsman was a hero and mentor to many members. Butcher, he stated was always available to offer words of wisdom to all the

youth in the club. Organising Secretary Keith Hicks urged the youths and organisations who benefited to take care of the different items especially the laptop computers, electronic tablets, bicycles, tricycles, school bags, household utensils and sport gear. ​Basil Butcher, who died at the age of 86 years, played 44 test matches for the West Indies, scoring 3104 runs at an average of 43.11 with seven centuries and sixteen

half centuries between 1958 to 1969. He also took five test wickets and was a very solid performer for Guyana and Berbice with the bat. Butcher also served as a cricket manager and selector at the West Indies level after his retirement. The RHTYSC since its formation in 1990 has been one of the leading cricket clubs in Guyana with 134 championship titles while producing 133 players for Berbice, 76 for Guyana and

13 for the international level. The club would like to express thanks to all of its donors who made the 2026 Basil Butcher Trust Fund a success especially King's Jewellery World, Nation Hardware, Lennox Cush, Jamie McDonald, Beepat's, Republic Bank, Comfort Sleep, Faizal Jaffarally, Namilco, HA Snacks Co. Ltd, Ricks and Sari Ltd, Trendsetter Tours, GNNL, Skeldon Energy, Global Visa, Beacon Cafe, Kevin Brijaddor, Jolen Lewis Styles, Trim Construction, Aubrey David, Ministry of Housing, Minister Collin Croal, Minister Stephen Jacob, The National A s s e m b l y, C a n a d i a n Surplus, GUYBIZ, Premcorp Consultancy Services, Data Technology, Delmur Shipping, Trophy Stall, Panthera Solutions, B a k e w e l l , K S M Investments, ARMCO Construction, Metro Office Supplies, D.D.L and Zamal Hussain, M.P.

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Pegasus Weekly Chess League opens with strong field …McKay, Sandiford, Sreebalakumar among Round One winners The inaugural Pegasus Weekly Chess League made a promising start on Monday evening at the Oasis Building, Pegasus Hotel, ushering in a new era of recurring competitive chess in Guyana. Organised by Drayton's Chess Club with support from the Pegasus Chess Club and the Guyana Chess Federation, the opening round attracted a diverse field of players spanning different professions, age groups and levels of competitive experience. Among those taking their seats across the boards were engineers, accountants, teachers, coaches, national players, students, a lawyer, corporate trainer, entrepreneurs, a builder and an artist. The seven-round inaugural season was preceded by a brief opening ceremony during which

FIDE Master Anthony Drayton, founder of Drayton's Chess Club and the League, outlined the vision behind the initiative and plans for its future development. Drayton explained that the League was designed to offer an alternative to the traditional tournament format by providing players with a consistent weekly competitive environment. The concept allows participants to return each week, contest one serious game and remain connected to competitive chess without necessarily having to commit an entire weekend to a tournament. “One game. Every week. Real competition,” Drayton declared. He stressed that the opening seven rounds represent only the foundation of a broader League concept, with several developments

already in the pipeline. Among the major initiatives announced is the planned launch of the Drayton's Chess Club website, which is expected to become the digital home of the League. The platform will eventually allow players and followers to access results, standings, statistics and individual competitive histories. Another significant development is the planned introduction of a team structure from 2027, adding another dimension to the weekly competition. The opening night also highlighted one of the League's central objectives — broadening Guyana's active chess community. Several participants would not normally feature regularly in competitive tournaments, but the weekly format provides a more accessible avenue for

Stiff competition! Scenes from Pegasus Weekly Chess League as Round One concludes. working professionals, businesspeople, students, returning players and other enthusiasts. According to Drayton, the League is not designed exclusively for established tournament players, with participants able to compete throughout the season or,

subject to registration and availability, enter individual rounds. Brandon Badal, who was specially acknowledged during the opening ceremony for his support of the initiative, expressed optimism about the League's prospects and its potential for

continued growth. The organisers also thanked Pegasus and the Pegasus Chess Club for supporting the concept and providing the venue, while recognition was extended to the Guyana Chess Federation, invited guests, (Continued on page 30)

Wednesday August 19, 2026

Kaieteur News

Essequibo set for explosive tapeball action in Lotto/Let'sBet T10 Blast With two zonal legs already in the books, the focus of the Lotto/Let'sBet One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast moves to Essequibo this weekend, August 22 and 23. Sixteen teams loaded with talent are set to clash across four venues for a coveted spot in the National Finals on October 11. The weekend action kicks off on Saturday, August 22, with opening fixtures spread across the Pomona Ground, Affiance Community Ground, Hampton Court Ground, and the Anna Regina National Stadium. Match play begins at 10:30h with Aurora Knight Riders facing GT Warriors at Pomona, Riverstown taking on Fibreglass Gladiators at Affiance, Shawn's Mini Mart playing Mabaruma All-Stars at Anna Regina, and Adventure Renegades going up against Northern Falcons at Hampton Court. Subsequent morning and afternoon ties will decide the quarter-finalists, with the day

concluding after the secondround clashes at 15:30h. All roads then lead to the Anna Regina National Stadium on Sunday, August 23, where the action shifts entirely for the marquee matches. Semi-final 1 bowls off at 14:30h, followed immediately by Semi-final 2 at 16:30h. Ahead of the showpiece match, fans will enjoy an exhibition game

between Trophy Stall Jaguars and Trophy Stall Eagles at 18:30h, setting the stage for the zonal final under lights at 20:00h.In addition to playing for a place in the National Finals, teams will battle for substantial commercial prize packages thanks to a strong lineup of corporate backers. The Essequibo Zone (Continued on page 25)

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With two zonal legs already in the books, the focus of the Lotto/Let'sBet One Guyana T10 Tapeball Blast moves to Essequibo this weekend, August 22 and 23.

MOE/Beharry Secondary School's Under-19 T20 tournament…

Pegasus Weekly Dindyal, Amsterdam, Chess League Fredricks, Griffith among stats leaders opens with Annandale Secondary and Abram Zuil in strong field huge clash at the Enterprise Ground today Participants stay keen on making calculated decisions during the opening round.

…McKay, Sandiford, Sreebalakumar among Round One winners

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Defending champion Dataman among 10 top horses for Guyana Cup feature The chief sponsors, Banks DIH and CEO of Jumbo Jet Events Nasrudeen Mohamed Jr at the post position draw.

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