kAieteur News

$126 million

Brazilians fined, deported over illegal mining

Incomplete Wales gas project costing Guyanese $126 million daily - AFC

...demands updated price tag including power ship expense

The incomplete Gas-to-Energy (GTE) project, which was expected to slash electricity cost to consumers by 50% since 2024 is yet to be completed, costing Guyana a whopping $126 milliondaily

This was highlighted by interim Leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC),

David Patterson on Thursday during a virtual

waspushedbackto2025and then mid-2026 which has been further delayed to the endofthisyear

He explained that in addition to the daily rental fee of $48.8 million for the two barges, Guyana is also saddledwithadailyfuelcost of $72.6 million and $4.2 m i l l i o n d a i l y f o r transportation expenses. As such, he pointed out that

newsconference.

In opening remarks, Patterson, the former M i n i s t e r o f P u b l i c Infrastructure who held responsibility for power generation, blasted the government for its failed management of the Wales gas project The mega initiative was priced at around US$1.7 billion with the pipeline pegged at US$1 billion and the power plant and Natural Gas Liquids (NGL) facility costing anotherUS$759million.

It is important to note that the project also includes consultancy,supervisionand t r a n s m i s s i o n a n d distributioncosts,alongwith other related expenses for arbitration, legal fees, land acquisition, site preparation and others Stakeholders believe that the price tag could exceed US$3 billion but Patterson now contends that the cost to rent two power ships must also be takenintoconsideration.

He said, “adding to this already inflated project cost is the government's decision to hire two power ships to compensate for delays in the gas to shore project. These ships come with high rental fees, fuel costs, maintenance and operational charges currently costing G$187 millionperday.”

Guyana is paying close to $126 million daily to generatepowerattheships.

Patterson argued that these costs were never includedintheoriginalprice of the Wales project yet they fall directly on the backs of taxpayers.

“The hiring of these shipsisadirectconsequence of the project's failure to meet its promised timelinesandmustbeaddedtothetrue cost of the gas to shore initiative,” the former memberofparliamentnoted.

The AFC has therefore d e m a n d e d t h a t t h e government provide the public with a full, updated costassessmentfortheentire GTE project, including the costofthepowershipsalong with a revised timeline with clear milestones and accountabilitymechanisms.

The party has also called for an updated electricity pricing model reflecting the higher capital cost, disclosure of all major c o n t r a c t s a n d t h e esta

independent oversight

structure to monitor progress, spending, and technical compliance on the project.

To date, the Wales project has missed at least three deadlines It was initially touted for completion in 2024 but this

In a telephone interview with Kaieteur News, Patterson listed the expenses related to the powerships currentlybeingrentedbythe government.

Although the project is expected to start up in the last quarter of 2026, government has said it will not generate electricity at fullcapacityuntilmid-2027.

KaieteurNews

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EDITORIAL

Healthcare and charity crisis

Thedeathofachildwhileawaitinglife-savingcareisnot merely a private tragedy, it is a damning indictment of a systemthathasfailedatitsmostbasicduty

When 12-year-old Marlon Jupiter died before the full $7 millionneededforhisbonemarrowtransplantcouldberaised, thiscountrywasconfrontedwithanuncomfortabletruth:inan oil-rich nation, a child’s survival still depends on a public collection Wemayneverknowwhetherthetransplantwould havesavedhim Butthatisnotthepoint Thepointisthathewas deniedthechancetotryHiscasestandsinstarkcontrasttothatof 12-year-oldDelroyMoses,whosefamilywasalsothrustintoa desperate race against time Moses needed urgent, life-saving endovascularsurgerycostingapproximately$9million Inhis case,thefundswereeventuallysecured,theprocedurewasdone, and he is now reportedly recuperating That outcome is welcome Butitdoesnotredeemthesystemitexposes

Because the question must be asked: why was Delroy Moses’familyforcedintothatpositioninthefirstplace? Why, in a country boasting record oil revenues, did a critically ill child have to depend on bake sales, public appeals, and the goodwill of strangers? Why did the State, withallitsresources,contributeonlyafractionofwhatwas required?AndwhydidCorporateGuyana,flushwithprofits from the very economy being celebrated, not step in immediately to close what was, in their world, a negligible gap?

These are not isolated incidents They are evidence of a structural failure, one in which the government has not made life-savinghealthcareaguaranteedright,andtheprivatesector hasnotembraceditsmoralobligationtothesocietyfromwhich it profits The State cannot hide behind partial assistance A contribution of $15 million towards a $9 million emergency procedureisnotmeaningfulintervention;itistokenism When the public system cannot provide a necessary treatment, the responsibility does not end it deepens The government must thenensurefullaccesselsewhere Anythinglessisanabdication ofduty Healthcareisnotalineitemtoberationedwhilebillions flowintoprojectsoffarlessurgency Itisnotsomethingtobe supplemented by charity when convenient It is a core responsibilityofgovernance Andwhenthatresponsibilityisnot met,theconsequencesaremeasurednotinpolicydebates,butin human lives lost Corporate Guyana, too, must come under scrutiny Thesamecompaniesthatbenefitfromtaxconcessions, statecontracts,andtheexpandingoileconomyhaveremained largely silent when urgent human needs arise Eight million dollars, seven million dollars these are trivial sums when distributedacrossmajorcorporationsreportingstrongearnings Yettimeandagain,familiesarelefttopleadpubliclywhilethe privatesectorrespondsslowly,selectively,orsymbolically True corporate citizenship is not about sponsorship of events,brandingexercises,orcarefullycraftedstatements Itis aboutdecisive,immediateactionwhenlivesareatstake Inboth theJupiterandMosescases,theprivatesectorhadthecapacityto intervenefullyandswiftly Thatitdidnotdosospeaksvolumes Somewillarguethatsocietyitselfmustbearpartoftheblame, that citizens did not give quickly enough in Marlon Jupiter’s case Thereistruthinthat Amoreurgent,collectiveresponse maywellhaveclosedthegapintime Butletusbeclear:the survival of a child should never hinge on the speed of public donations Thatisnotasystem,itisagamble

Anationcannotnormalizepassingaroundahattosave its children. The contrast between Marlon Jupiter and Delroy Moses is therefore not simply one of death and survival.Itisacontrastbetweentwooutcomesproducedby the same flawed reality: one where access to care is uncertain, uneven, and dependent on circumstance rather than guaranteed by design. Guyana today stands at a crossroadsbetweenwealthandresponsibility.Therevenues exist. The capacity exists. What is missing is the political will and the moral clarity to ensure that no family is ever againplacedinthepositionofbeggingforachild’slife.

Caution to Taxpayers Ahead ofApril 30 Deadline

DEAREDITOR

AstheApril30taxfiling deadline approaches, taxpayers are preparing submissions to the Guyana R

y However, caution must be exercised in selecting who preparesthesereturns. T

individuals representing themselves as ‘accountants’ and offering accounting and tax preparation services despite not being members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Guyana (ICAG) and therefore not being qualified Chartered Accountants.

M a n y o f

s e individuals are either still

pursuing studies or, in some cases, have no formal accounting qualifications at all.

Taxpayers should be wary of engaging such persons.

The preparation of financial statements and tax returns requires not only technical competence but alsoadherencetoestablished accounting standards and policies.

When these services are providedbyindividualswho are not regulated or subject to oversight by the ICAG thenthereisnoassuranceof quality, accuracy or compliance.

Errors or misstatements can expose taxpayers to

penalties, audits and unnecessaryhassle.Itisalso important to highlight that only practicing members of the ICAG are permitted to conduct statutory audits for companies.

Taxpayers and business owners should be especially cautious of individuals who misrepresent themselves as being qualified to perform such audits when they are notdulylicensed.

W h i l e i t i s understandable that during tax season, individuals and businesses seek to minimize costs,thisshouldnotcomeat the expense of engaging unqualified and unregulated serviceproviders.

consequences far outweigh any perceived short-term savings. Would you entrust your legal matters to someone who could not completelawschooloryour health to someone who failedtoqualifyasadoctor?

The same logic must applywhenitcomestoyour finances and tax obligations assomeonewhoisincapable of completing their accounting studies is also incompetent to be deemed a professionalaccountant.

Taxpayers are urged to verifycredentialsandensure they engage qualified professionals.

Yoursfaithfully,

TerrenceJaskaran

CharteredAccountant

Corruption manifest itself in different forms

DEAREDITOR

Thanks to our present rulers,Guyanahasbecomea mostperplexingsociety,one in which the lines between good and evil, right and wrong, are becoming, or have already become, dangerously blurred. We now have an administration thatappearsconvincedthata well-oiled and heavily funded propaganda machinery, aided, perhaps unwittingly, by certain

sufficient to persuade both G

the international community that we uphold decency, democracy,andstandfirmly againstcorruption.

Thisweek,withtheusual fanfare, it was announced that an anti-corruption workshophadbeenlaunched at the Guyana Police Force Officers’ Training Centre at Eve Leary, ostensibly to benefit members of the Guyana Police Force However,giventhefactsthat are widely known, such an initiative amounts to little morethanplacingabandage on a festering wound, or administeringPanadolforan advanced illness. Unless we address the root causes, this seminar risks being nothing morethanacharade.

For instance, there are persistent concerns in the public domain regarding the accumulation of substantial wealth and overseas

properties, particularly in Florida—by certain public officials within a relatively short period Yet, there appears to be little appetite, at the highest levels of leadership, to investigate or address these matters decisively. Similarly, the case of the official at the Central Housing and Planning Authority, who

resigned following revelations of unexplained wealthandtheacquisitionof overseas properties purchased outright, remains a troubling example Additionally, questions

s u r r o u n d i n g t h e

circumstances of the assassination of “Paper Shorts”continuetolingerin thepublicdomain.Theseare not isolated incidents but snapshots of a broader and deeplyrootedproblem.

Concerns regarding the relationship between senior public officials and private business interests have also been raised publicly, including in an interview conducted by journalist Isobella Young. While such discussions warrant careful and responsible treatment, they nonetheless underscore the need for greater

t r a n s p a r e n c y a n d independent scrutiny of matters that may affect publictrust.

Atamorepersonallevel, I recall an experience where my driver was stopped by

police officers and accused of speeding; an implausible c l a i m g i v e n t h e circumstances.Hewasasked to exit the vehicle and was bluntly questioned about whetherhehadmoneyonhis person. Upon being asked who was seated in the back seatandprovidingmyname, he was promptly told to proceed. Such encounters, while seemingly minor, are indicative of a troubling culture of opportunism and selectiveenforcement.There are numerous similar incidents, but I will not burden this letter with furtherdetails.

Itiswellestablishedthat within any institution, subordinates often emulate the conduct of their superiors.Asthephilosopher Thomas Hobbes observed, notionsof“good”and“evil” are often relative to those who define them. Within a commonwealth, these concepts are shaped by collective standards However,humanmotivation frequently aligns with selfinterest. Where individuals perceivethattheycanpursue what is deemed “wrong” without consequence, and where enforcement is inconsistent or selective, theyaremorelikelytodoso. It is often only the fear of punishmentorthebenefitsof social order that restrain suchbehaviour

Hereinliesthecruxofthe

corruption challenge in Guyana. Once one has the “right connections,” it is businessasusual.Wedonot need more seminars or workshops; rather, we require a government and a police leadership that are genuinely committed to eradicating corruption in all its forms Wherever corruption manifests, the responsemustbeswift,firm, andeven-handed.

Dear Editor, if we are serious about confronting corruption,wemustbeginat the very top, and I mean precisely that. Unless, as a people, we summon the courage to confront this pervasive problem, all the eloquent speeches, the billions in revenue, and the vastwealthderivedfromour abundant natural resources will ultimately be rendered meaningless. This will be especially so if we continue to overlook the steady erosionofthemoralfabricof oursociety Corruption manifest itself in different forms, greed disregards our cherished values, the rule of law, and it ignores the essence of our democratic framework, such as the vital roleoflocalgovernment. While preparing this letter, an abomination, something beyond belief came to my attention. The Governmentannouncedthat (Continuedonpage06)

PersistentAd Hominem attacks on the Georgetown Magistracy is reprehensible

DEAREDITOR, I write to express profound concern regarding the escalating pattern of ad hominem attacks directed at a particular Magistrate within the Georgetown Magistracy as repeated, ad nauseam, in social media. These attacks, originating fromindividualsbothwithin and outside the Government of Guyana, represent a dangerous erosion of the foundational principles of judicial independence and the rule of law Whether thesenegativecommentsare calculated in pressuring the Magistrate to arrive at a “speedy” conclusion inconclusively or to create national or international opprobrium, is a complete lackofdecorumandisquite insulting. Magistrates, like all other legal luminaries discharging their duties, are bounded by the Socratic Oath/ Socratic Method to deduce Magistrates and judges are expected to remain disinterested parties in the eventual outcomes of theirdecisions.

TheMagistracyservesas the primary interface betweenthecitizenryandthe judicial system. It is the bedrock upon which public confidenceinjusticeisbuilt. When magistrates are

subjected to personal vilification, unfounded a c c u s a t i o n s , a n d contemptuous public commentary rather than constructive

egal criticism the intention appears to be not to seek accountability, but to intimidate, undermine, and d e l

m i z e a constitutionally protected institution.

Editor, it is particularly alarming when such attacks emanate from individuals within the Government Whilefreedomofexpression is a cherished constitutional right, public officials bear a heightened responsibility to respect the separation of powers. Rhetoric that seeks to bully judicial officers or prejudice pending matters strikes at the heart of an independentjudiciary When combined with attacks from externalactorswholeverage media platforms to launch personalized vendettas against judicial officers, the cumulative effect is a coordinated assault on the integrityofthecourt. In this context, it is necessary to address the critical importance of the law of contempt of court. Contempt powers are not designed to shield judicial officers from legitimate

scrutiny or fair criticism. However, they are the indispensablemechanismby which the judiciary defends itself against conduct that scandalizes the court, obstructs the administration of justice, or creates a real risk of prejudice to judicial proceedings.

Editor, the severity of punishment for contempt of courtisoftenmisunderstood by the public. The judiciary doesnotwieldthispowerfor the personal benefit of the magistrate or judge. Rather, the severity reflects the gravityoftheoffenseagainst the public interest.When an individual,whetheraprivate citizen or a high-ranking official, engages in a sustained campaign of personal denigration against a magistrate, they are not

attacking the institutional authority required to adjudicate disputes fairly andwithoutfearorfavor

The punishment for contempt serves three essential purposes: 1 Vindication of Public Authority: It affirms that the administration of justice cannotbeheldhostagetomob rhetoricorpoliticalpressure 2 Deterrence:Itsendsan (Continuedonpage06)

The Price of Incompetence - When the State Becomes Its Own Saboteur

DEAREDITOR, There comes a point whenacountrycannolonger excusefailureasanaccident. When fiascos repeat with clockwork precision, they stop being mistakes and becomehabits—deliberate,

ultivated habits of incompetence The CCJ’s $179 million ruling in Falcon Construction against the Government of Guyana is not an isolated embarrassment It is the loudestsymptomofadeeper, unbroken illness that has corroded the arteries of governanceitself.

This latest loss, borne from theAttorney General’s careless litigation and the State’sdisregardforprocess, is the legal face of a much wider decay It mirrors how ourinstitutionsnowoperate: reflexively defensive, unwatchful, and allergic to accountability The AG’s office, once a bulwark of jurisprudence, has become a monument to mediocrity — presiding over successive defeats, each more costly than the last, as public cofferscontinuouslybleedto

sustainprivateblunders. Itisgallingthatthissame AG, presiding over such serial embarrassment, can summon the zeal to chase political vendettas — from his overreaching pursuit of the Mohamed’s extradition to his reckless appetite for foreign counsel, procured at lavish public cost yet delivering paltry return Millions spent, cases lost, reputations tarnished. This, w e a r e t o l d , i s “representation of the nation.” But beneath these failures lies a deeper rot — the bureaucratic bankruptcy of leadership Our governance has become the refuge of men who mistake obstinacy for strength and legal belligerence for wisdom.Theyoperatenotas custodians of justice but as habitualoffendersagainstit, abusingprocessasiftherule of law were an irritant to be managed rather than a disciplinetobeobserved.

Unchallenged thisbrand o f i n e p t i t u d e h a s metastasized. Across every sector, governance now performs like a parody of

itself ministries more interested in optics than outcomes, officials fluent in slogans but illiterate in solutions. The Ministry of PublicWorksturnsoutroads that disintegrate before ribbon-cuttingsaredry,once proudly “world class,” now potholes masquerading as progress Education infrastructure crumbles under the weight of botched planning, unvetted contractors, and projects abandoned midstream proof that bureaucratic negligence has replaced due diligence.

Inhealthcare,theironyis grotesque.Afterhundredsof billions in taxpayer funding, the Georgetown Public Hospital stands as a symbol of dysfunction: CTscanners down, elevators inoperable, services crippled yet hailed by the President himself as “world class.” Such delusion would be comic if it were not a daily tragedy for citizens whose lives depend on competence butreceivechaosinstead.

Everywheretheeye

(Continuedonpage06)

PersistentAd Hominem...

Frompage05

unequivocal message that the erosion of public confidence in the judiciary through personal attacks willnotbetolerated.

3. Protection of Due Process: It ensures that pendingcasesaredecidedon theevidenceandthelaw,not under the shadow of public vilification of the presiding officer

Editor, we must be clear: a democracy cannot survive where judicial

executive or the approval of social media mobs to performtheirduties

If the Georgetown Magistracy is allowed to be routinely denigrated by actors with political or personal motives, without consequence, we risk descending into a state w h e r e j u s t i c e i s determined by popularity ratherthanprinciple

Additionally, the media, the unofficial 4th branchofthegovernmenttermed the FOURTH ESTATE- plays a crucial role in this landscape

Responsible journalism demands distinguishing

between protected free speech and speech that poses a clear and present

. By providing a platform for a

disguised as political comme

, media houses risk becoming accompli

to the subversion of the rule of law

We c a l l o n a l l stakeholders the legal fraternity, civil society, the Executive, and the media to unequivocally defend the institutional

g r i t y

t h e Magistracy Criticism of judicial decisions must remain within the bounds of respectful discourse, f o c u s e d o n l e g a l reasoning rather than personaldestruction

The severity of contempt sanctions is not a sign of a weak judiciary; it is the last bulwark againstanarchy Letusnot wait until the erosion of public confidence in our courts is irreversible before we recognise the value of whatwearelosing.

Respectfully Jonathan

SubrianEsq.

ThePriceofIncompetence...

Frompage05 turns, the pattern repeats: policing without trust, procurement without prudence, agriculture without innovation, civil service without efficiency

The machinery of state no longer malfunctions — it malfunctions by design, sustained by a political culture that rewards loyalty over skill and obedience overintellect. And still the nation pays We finance the same failures,re-electthesame faces, tolerate the same excuses

But no treasury can u n d e r w r i t e s u c h recklessnessforever

Thecostisnotjustfiscal; it is moral measured in public faith eroded, in y

Frompage04 they will be taking over several streets in Georgetown while owing theCityCouncillargesums of money Dictatorship is a handmaidenofcorruption. Thisisnotamattertobe takenlightly

Those who are genuinely concerned must continue to speak out and activelyengageineffortsto

institutions too hollow to command respect or deliverjustice.

Thetruenationalcrisis i s n o t p o

c a l polarization it is administrative paralysis Governance has become spectacle w

thout substance, policy without p

nciple, ambition withoutability Until competence is restored as the minimum standardofpublicservice, Guyana will remain a

rebuilding what it already

relitigating what

should

functional.

Regards

HemduttKumar

bring about meaningful change History has repeatedly demonstrated humanity’s tendency to ignore warning signs, often proceeding along a selfdestructive path, frequently ledbyindividualsdrivenby greed and the pursuit of economic and political power

Sincerely HamiltonGreen

AFC supports WIN representation

at GECOM

TheAllianceforChange (AFC) said it believes the mainoppositionWeInvestin Nationhood (WIN) should be represented on the G u y a n a E l e c t i o n s Commission(GECOM).

The party's interim leader, David Patterson told a press conference on Thursday that his party had long maintained that GECOM should reflect the political makeup of the nationalassembly

“We've always said, and that has been our position that GECOM should always reflect the parliamentary composition we had

fought through several of these oppositions, including with former President [David] Granger, when he made his last appointment, we'dalwaysmadethiscase,” hesaid Further expounding, Patterson said he was in no w a y c a l l i n g o n commissioners representing the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) to resign.

“I'm not saying that all three should resign I'm saying that the final composition should reflect the composition of the currentparliament.However

– calls for key vacancies within commission to be filled before LGE

that is worked out between alltheparties,Ican'tsay,but I do think that it should be reflective of the opposition componentsatthemoment,” hestated.

Despitethechangeinthe main parliamentary opposition, APNU representatives on GECOM have said that they will not vacate their seats to allow a newsetofcommissionersto take their place. This has resulted in a standoff at the level of GECOM between oppositionrepresentatives. Meanwhile, the AFC leader said a major concern of the party is the readiness

ofGECOMtoconductlocal government elections this year

He noted while the national assembly approved more than $6.9 billion for GECOM's hosting of the elections, the budget was submitted without the involvement of the full commission and without the long-requested reforms that were requested even before the last general and regional elections.

“Today, GECOM's management structure is severely weakened. Critical positions remain vacant, deputy chief elections

officer, the assistant chief election officer, the accountant, the information technology manager, the legal officer and the chief security officer These are not optional roles. They are the core of election administration; six of the nine senior administrative roles at GECOM are currentlyvacant.”

He emphasised that any attempt to run an election withoutthemisrecklessand dangerous.

“Tomakemattersworse, the full commission has not metsinceSeptember7,2025 that means nothing required for local government election can be lawfully approved,nottheworkplan, not nomination day, not the voters list, not the polling agents,nottherecruitmentof staff GECOM at the moment, is operating without oversight, without authority, without legitimacy. If GECOM attempts to conduct 2026

localgovernmentelectionin thisstatus,localgovernment election, 2026 will be compromised before they begin.

To this end, Patterson said the AFC demands the immediate reconvening of the full commission, the urgent advertising and placement of all critical agencies, and an end to all unilateral administrative changes.

Pensioner’s home set on fire by man, 21

A 21-year-old man identified as George Khan called “Georgie” of lot 363 Good Hope Village, Essequibo Coast, Region Two, is accused of setting fire to the home of a female pensioner

He appeared at theAnna ReginaMagistrate'sCourton Thursday before Magistrate

MahendraMohabir

The court heard that the 74-year-old woman's home was set ablaze on Sunday March22between03:30and 04:15hrs.

Khanwasnotrequiredto pleadtotheindictablecharge and was remanded to prison until his next court appearanceonMay15,2026.

Jagdeo and the myth of climate realism

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo arrived at the 124thSpecialMeetingofthe Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) brandishing what he seemed to believe was a cudgel of hard truth: the Caribbeanmustmove“from rhetoric to realism.” One

almost admires his

performance if only because it is the oldest trick in the political handbook: declareanendtoemptytalk while delivering yet another instalmentofit.

The call to abandon rhetoric for realism has the ring of revelation only to those who have not been paying attention for the last three decades Climate diplomacy, from the early c

onferences to the sprawling annual pilgrimage of the Conference of the Parties (COP), has been saturated with precisely this refrain. Every statesman rises to the podium insisting that he is the one to cut through illusion Unfortunately, Jagdeo’s declaration does not pierce the fog; it merely adds another layer of mist, albeit delivered with the practiced impatience of a man eager to sound above thefray

Nor does his lament that “we are far away from weaning ourselves off fossil fuel”qualifyasinsight.This is not a rediscovery of some buried truth; it is the foundational premise upon which Net Zero itself is constructed The entire

architecture of global climate policy rests on the recognition that we need to reduce the world’s dependence on fossil fuels. Topresentthisfactnowasa corrective to naïve thinking is to rehearse a point so obvious it scarcely deserves mention.

Whatlendstheremarkits sharper edge of irony is that Guyana is now a leading produceroffossilfuelswhile masquerading as a climate champion The Vice President’s newfound enthusiasm for a “balanced” approach to energy policy

reads like a polite euphemismforcontinuedoil andgasextraction.

Indeed, his rejection of theso-calledbinarybetween fossil fuels and renewables c

DEM BOYS SEH

People doing all kinds of craziness on de roads

Dem boys grow up hearing all kinda wise talk from dem old people. One that stick strong likeguavajamisthis:“Whenrainfall,drive slow, bai. Road does get slippery and danger does multiply.” Simple advice, nothing fancy—just common sense with a lil’sprinkleofexperience.

But leh dem boys tell you something. Commonsenselooklikeitdonemigrate.

Because from what dem boys seeing nowadays,somedriversdoestreatrainlike itisasignalforrallyracing.Assoonasthem first drop hit the windscreen, is like dem footgetheavieronthegaspedal.Insteadof easingup,dempressingdownharder

Rain falling steady, road shining like mirror,visibilitylow-low…andherecome amanovertakingthreevehiclesatoncelike he late for he own wedding. Dem boys nearly choke on dem pholourie watching that. And leh we talk about some hire car drivers nah. Rain or shine, them operating on a different law of physics. When rain falling, you would think dem would cool

down.Butno—demacceleratinglikewater is fuel. One sudden brake and everybody insidedoesperformgymnasticsroutinefree of cost. Is like some people believe the wettertheroad,thefasterthecarsupposed to go—like dem trying to skim across the surfacelikeaflatstoneinatrench.

Demboysevenseeonefelladrivingso fast in the rain, he splash water on a pedestriansoclean,themanain’tevenneed go home and bathe Public service, apparently

But jokes aside, rain ain’t no joke.Wet road does reduce grip, brakes does behave funny, and visibility does drop faster than peopleNewYearresolution.Yet,insteadof adjusting, some drivers does turn into stuntmen. So dem boys asking politely: y’alltryingtoreachfaster,ortryingtoreach never?Becauseatthisrate,whenrainfall,is notjustumbrellapeopleneed;it’sprayer Slow down, nah man. The road ain’t goinganywhere,butyoumightifyoukeep drivingso.

Talkhalf.Leffhalf.

arries the faint odour of environmental opportunism. The binary is inconvenient preciselybecauseitdemands choices,andchoices,inturn, demand sacrifice By dissolving the distinction into a soothing gradient of “balance,” Jagdeo makes room for Guyana’s increasing reliance on natural gas as a “transition fuel”.

Equally curious is Jagdeo’ssuddenconcernfor the fragility of Caribbean tourism economies One might have expected a note of humility here, given the region’s demonstrated resilience. From hurricanes to pandemics, Caribbean states have repeatedly absorbed shocks that would haveflattenedlessadaptable economies.

The same cannot be said of Guyana’s recovery from flooding.TheGuyanaSugar Corporation(GUYSUCO)is still bearing the scars of floods of 2021 which inundated its cultivation

D e s p i t e c o n s t a n t investmentsinpumpstations and billion-dollar annual investments in drainage, every time it rains, Black Bush Polder, one of the Guyana’s agricultural baskets,isthreatened.

If ever there is a Caribbean economy in need of scrutiny, it is surely Guyana’s own. Despite years o

rical commitment to climate resilience much of it voiced during Jagdeo’s e a r l i e r t e n u r e a s president the country remains conspicuously underprepared for environmental shocks Flooding, coastal erosion, and infrastructural fragility continue to expose the gap between promise and performance.Afewhoursof rainfall throw citizens into fits of panic out of fear of flooding. One is tempted to ask what became of the grand designs for climateproofing that once animated Georgetown’spolicycircles.

B u t G u y a n a ’ s vulnerability is not merely environmental It is also structural.

With more than 80 percent of its exports tied to fossil fuels, Guyana has tethered its economic future to the volatile fortunes of globaloilmarkets.Oilprices are now rising and yet Guyana, an oil exporter, remains acutely vulnerable to the effects of higher importfuelcosts.

Guyana’sdependenceon oil amplifies, rather than mitigates, risk—subjecting the country to the twin hazardsofclimatedisruption and price fluctuation.In this context,Jagdeo’ssermonon resilience acquires a distinctlyhollowresonance.

H is critique of ineffective climate diplomacy, meanwhile, invitesanevenmorepointed recollection. Jagdeo is no strangertothegrandstageof international negotiation; indeed, he was a key participant in the ill-fated Copenhagen Climate Conference 2009, where ambitious appeals for forest conservation and financial transfers dissolved into procedural deadlock and mutualrecrimination.

Itisthereforedifficultto takeseriouslyhisimpatience with “repetitive and ineffective” diplomacy when he has himself been a participant in its most conspicuousfailures.

The Caribbean does not lack realism; it suffers, rather, from an excess of leaders who mistake the articulation of problems for their solution. Jagdeo’s speech,forallitsimpatience with empty words, ultimately adds to their number

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

H@RD TRUTHS

Mission Mohameds Extradition – beware, PPP beware

The father-son Mohamed team headstotheCCJ. It's honoredastheapexcourt.

Though impressive sounding,anddeservingthat loftiness, here's something more visceral. Last Chance Chambers. Losethere,and it'sfinished.

Handcuffs time. Afree plane ride to the US, with free official marshal service provided, one with a twist. Guyanese taxpayers don't have to pay the bill. The Mohameds have their day withAmerican-stylejustice. For starters, there would be a conversation A continuation of the one that the US hosted in Barbados,

and to which the PPP Govt. thoughtfully gave its blessing. No unpleasant holdupsatCBJInternational Airport. When the interest of the US in the Mohameds was at such intensities, would've been unhealthy, decidedly perilous, for the PPP Gut check: Do PPP leaders, both group and government, really want to see the backs of the Mohameds,havethemoutof their sights? I wouldn't, if I wereDrs.IrfaanAli,Bharrat Jagdeo, and Anil Nandlall. They know some of what is in the heads of those two gentlemennowshipwrecked on a remote desert island, with numerous gun barrels

heldintheirfaces. So,once again,dotheyreallywantthe Mohameds sharing deep, dark PPP secrets with members from some US Governmentposse?

Secrets like the manipulations surrounding the December 2018 parliamentarynoconfidence motion and some of the ingredients that greased its wheels.

Secrets such as who had ahandingivingthemapass on various activities that weresweptundertherugby thePPPGovt.?

Before May 2015 and afterlateAugust2020. Like whose names featured in some way in the Curacao gold bust, and who helped smooth matters after that blewup.

Onemoreforgoodtimes sake. Like who was very instrumental in tax exemptions and vehicle tax ( c u s t o m d u t i e s ) arrangements.

Though the few mentioned here are elephants, they represent mere droppings in the range of what the Mohameds

know,andmaybewillingto part with as part of a Mohamed-US danse macabre.

If the US could have donebusinesswithPanama's Manuel Noreiga, then why notothers,includingaselect fewfromGuyana?

It is widely known and acceptedthattheMohameds enjoyed a special bond with Excellency Ali. A fairweatherfriendhehasturned outtobe.

A jolly good fellow whenthegoingwasgood;an absentee friend, even a hostile one, when the weathergotturbulent.

Morethananyoneelse,I think that Pres. Ali has the biggest risk, considering his long and hearty and rewarding relationship with thefatherandsontagteam.

At times, prior to their breakupandseeminglybitter fallout, Guyanese thought theywereathreesomerather thanaduet. Friendssharing thatdegreeofintimacyhave secrets for one another For those waiting with bated breath,notonewordmore.

P o s t m o r t e m

conclusions: the PPP Govt. has a problem The Mohameds go and theyareabigproblem. How much will they spill? It's that or 20 plus in theslammer

Holdbackandgetputina hole. Play games with the Yanks and be made into a meatballandgoofball. Cold cases must become warm cases What lacked transparency must gleam like the noontime sun in a clearsky

Accountability has a new definition, the most updated terms of reference.

But the PPP of Ali, Jagdeo, Nandlall(etal)haveabigger problem if the Mohameds stayhere.

There's 2030 and Irfaan the Invincible is out, so is Jagdeo,unlessthestatusquo topples. For those pretending ignorance, get wise. Constitution. Digest more.

Thepeoplefromanother part of the world would like continuity here, back with hardcurrency Renminbior Yankee, cash cascades

Subtitles: The backers wear the same garments favored by pres. Ali. Where is Nandlall and Jagdeo with thatpit-bull? TheUS,too.

The stinker is that Mohamed the Younger swore on the Koran to deal with the Exxon contract. NonstarterforSpring,Texas and Washington, DC Something has to give Some offer made that is unrefusable, has what is palatable.

Ihailthatasameetingof the minds. Mountains don't meet, but men meet, work sticky matters out, make thingshappen. DoesthePPP of Ali, Jagdeo, Nandlall reallywantthat?

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

City mayor blasts Govt. overreach

…as council locked out from Water Street property

A dramatic standoff unfolded in Georgetown on Friday as councillors of the Mayor and City Council (M&CC)wereblockedfrom accessing a municipal property on Water Street by ranks of the Guyana Police Force, deepening a growing confrontation between city hallandcentralgovernment.

The tense scene developed after Councilor Clayton Hinds attempted to enter the facility but was stoppedbyofficersstationed at the entrance A “no trespassing” sign had been erected, and police maintained a firm position

thatnoonewouldbeallowed inside.

Mayor Alfred Mentore later arrived and questioned the authority under which the restriction was imposed, insisting that the property belongs to the council and that no approval had been granted for such action. His attemptstogetanswersfrom the officers were unsuccessful.

A senior police official on site stated only that he was acting on “directives from above,” refusing to identify who issued the orders. He maintained that the sign would remain in

place and access would continuetobedenied.

Visibly frustrated, Mentorecondemnedwhathe described as an alarming abuseofstatepower

“I just want people to understand the nature of the government that we're dealing with This bullyismthatisintheschool is the same bullyism that is there nationally,” the mayor said.

“Here we have the national police blocking councillors from accessing its own building. I have a problemwiththat.”

He made it clear that the

The Water Street property councillors were prevented from accessing on Friday. Friday

council would not accept what it views as unlawful interference, announcing that legal proceedings will be initiated immediately According to the mayor, lawyers will be engaged to seek an injunction against thegovernment.

“Wewillnotbuckle,”he asserted, signalling a readinesstotakethefightto thecourts.

Othercouncillorsechoed similar concerns, with one describing the situation as a “hostile takeover” of municipal assets and criticizingwhatshesaidwas a complete lack of consultation She further alleged that constables previously assigned to the building were forcibly removed.

Councillor Lelon Saul warnedthattheimplications go beyond a single property

dispute, arguing that the developments strike at the core of democratic governance.

“What we're seeing here is indicative of poor governance. This is a threat to democracy, make no mistake,”Saulsaid.

Theconfrontationcomes amid heightened tensions following the government's recent move to assume control of 22 roads previously managed by the municipality Thetransferof responsibility,carriedoutby theMinistryofPublicWorks under the Roads Act, has been strongly opposed by CityHall.

In a statement issued Friday, the mayor condemnedthedecisionasa directattackontheauthority ofthecouncil.

“It represents a calculated act of political

intimidation and overreach, designed to destabilize the Municipalityandsilencethe voices of the people of Georgetown,” the statement read.

While government has indicated interest in the Water Street property and the administration of key roads, councillorsarguethat any such actions should be guided by consultation and lawful agreement not enforcement by police presence.

With legal action now imminent and positions on both sides hardening, the disputesignalsanescalating power struggle between Georgetown's elected officials and central government one that is rapidly shifting from confrontation on the ground to a looming battle in the courts.

Israel vows no let-up despite U.S. push to end war

( A L - J A Z E E R A )

Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz says Israel will “intensify” its attacks and targetabroaderrangeofsites inIranasheaccusedTehran of directing missiles at Israel'scivilianpopulation.

The remarks came after US-Israeli strikes targeted the Khondab Heavy Water Complex in central Iran, accordingtoIran'sFarsnews agency There were no casualties or radiation leak fromthesite.

Inresponse,Iranwarned employeesofUSandIsraeli industrial facilities in the region to leave their workplaces, saying it was makingretaliatorystrikes.

Iranian officials say US andIsraelistrikeshavehitat least 120 museums and historical sites across the countrysincethewarbegan, raising concerns over damagetoculturalheritage.

Wadephul described reports of direct US-Iran communication as “encouraging” and said he expectsorhasheardsignsof possible direct WashingtonTehran talks, potentially hosted in Islamabad (Pakistan) in the coming period Pakistan regional reports

Separately,UnitedStates Secretary of State Marco RubiosaidonFridaythatthe country could achieve its goals in Iran “without any ground troops”, stating that the operation was expected to conclude in “weeks, not months” , Al Jazeera reported.

Speaking to reporters following a G7 meeting in France, he said ensuring the Strait of Hormuz remained open to shipping was likely to pose an “immediate challenge”evenaftertheUS accomplished its military

Meanwhile, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has accused Russia of helping Iran identify potential strike targets, alleging President Vladimir Putin was hoping tousetheUS-Israelwarasa distraction from his Ukraine invasion.

objectivesinIran.

He said the US would seek international cooperationonaplantokeep the strait open after hostilitiesend.

“Not only is this illegal, it's unacceptable It's dangerous to the world,” Rubio said of the possibility that Iran would seek to restrict traffic through the strait.

“And it's important that the world have a plan,” he added.Rubio also said Iran maydecidetosetupatolling system for the Strait of Hormuz.

He also said that weapons destined for Ukraine are not being divertedforuseinthewaron Iran, “but that could happen.”

Separately,Lebanonsaid on Friday evening that 26 people were killed and 86 otherswereinjuredinIsraeli attacks over the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of casualties since March 2 to 1,142 dead and 3,315injured.

The money recovered from the suspects

3 others nabbed in $7M Durban Backlands theft

Police in Regional Division 4 'A' have arrestedfourpersons,includingateenager,as investigations continue into the theft of millions of dollars in cash from a businesswoman in Durban Backlands, Georgetown.

The incident occurred on Wednesday, March25,2026,atapproximately17:30hrs. andinvolveda35-year-oldChinesenational.

According to police, the woman had placedablackplasticbagcontainingcashon the front passenger seat of her motor bus, whichwasleftunlockedwhileshesupervised theoffloadingofanearbycontainer

Investigatorsallegethatduringthistime, a16-year-oldlabourerenteredthevehicleand removedthebag,whichreportedlycontained $7,000,000(GYD).

Protesters attend an anti-United States and anti-Israel rally, amid the US-Israeli war on Iran, in Tehran, Iran [Majid Asgaripour/Reuters]

The death toll includes 122childrenand83women, while the total number of injured includes 403 children and 456 women, according to the Lebanese HealthMinistry

Asthewarentersday28, United States President Donald Trump has delayed planned attacks on Iran's energy infrastructure by 10 days until April 6, saying peace talks are going “very well” – even as Iranian officials describe a US

proposal as “one-sided and unfair”.

Pakistan says it is relaying messages between Washington and Tehran, withTurkiyeandEgyptalso supportingmediationefforts to try to end the war, as diplomatic efforts intensify to prevent a wider regional conflict.

InIran

Military strikes and casualties: US and Israeli forces continued with their bombardment of Iranian

cities: more than 1,900 people have been killed in Iransofar.

Iran's retaliation: Tehran fired missiles and drones at Israel and Gulf states, including Kuwait, the UnitedArabEmirates,Saudi ArabiaandJordan.

Trump pushes back deadline: Trump paused planned attacks on Iranian energyplantsuntilApril6at 8pm Eastern Time (00:00 GMT on April 7), saying (Continuedonpage17)

CCTV footage obtained from the area is saidtoshowthesuspectenteringthevehicle and later exiting with a bulky black plastic bag.

Following the discovery, police ranks conductedsearchesintheDurbanBacklands community, leading to the recovery of $4,390,000inGuyanacurrency

Four persons were subsequently arrested and taken to the East La Penitence Police Station They include the 16-year-old suspect, a 46-year-old female vendor, a 40year-old female kitchen assistant, and a 38year-oldmalelabourer

The recovered cash was counted in the presence of the suspects and has since been lodgedasevidence. Investigationsareongoing.

Autopsy raises more questions than answers in death of Otis Payne - Lawyer

…causeofdeathlistedasperitonitis

An a u t o p s y conducted on the body of 30year-old Otis Payne, who died while in police custody at the Cove and John Police Station, has revealed that he died from peritonitis a severe infection of the abdomen caused by a perforatedstomachulcer

Despite this medical finding, the family's attorney,DexterTodd,along with former Member of Parliament Dr Karen Cummings, say the autopsy has raised more questions thananswersafterobserving theprocedureandreviewing initialfindings.

The two indicated that the young man's condition may have been worsened either by slow response by police or delays in medical care, while also not ruling out that the appendix may have burst due to a possible blowhesustained.

AccordingtotheGuyana Police Force, the postmortem examination was conducted on Friday by Government Pathologist Nehaul Singh at the mortuaryoftheGeorgetown PublicHospitalCorporation, “whogavethecauseofdeath asperitonitis.”

Peritonitis is a redness andswelling(inflammation) oftheliningoftheabdomen, known as the peritoneum. It is often caused by an infection resulting from a hole in the bowel or a rupturedappendix.

Toxicology samples werealsotakentodetermine whetheranysubstancesmay have contributed to Payne's condition, and his body was subsequentlyhandedoverto relatives.

Payne, also known as “Jah Jah, ” of South Haslington, East Coast Demerara, died on Tuesday morningwhileincustody In thewakeoftheincident,two police rank who were on duty at the time have since been placed under close arrest and are assisting with an ongoing investigation being led by the Force's Office of Professional Responsibility

Present at the autopsy were Cummings, Todd, and Payne's mother, Amanda Kato Following the procedure, Cummings expressed satisfaction with the examination, while pointing to critical concerns aboutmedicalintervention.

“We are relatively satisfied. As soon as you open up the abdomen you sawtheperforation.Itwasan acuteabdomenanditshould havegoneintotheatrewithin 24hrs and that wasn't done. He was complaining of abdominal pain. He could have been saved if the doctors were more aggressive,”shesaid. Todd, in his assessment, maintained that while the pathologist carried out a thorough examination, the findings have widened the scope of the investigation significantly

“My role is to observe theprocessandIsawthatthe pathologist did everything that he possibly could, he thoroughly examined the body, he try to find everything in relation to a cause of death. If there is a report of a slightest blow whatsoever, I believe it is enoughtohavecompounded the situation. What we witnesshereIbelieve,opens theinvestigationabitwider. Because we are not only looking an issue of whether therewasadirectblowfrom thepolice,wearelookingat the issue of when the complaint was made, time period of taking him to the hospital, when he got to the hospital, was he attended to by a doctor, what was given to him. We are looking at issues of malpractice right across the board,” Todd explained.

He further revealed that the pathologist was not provided with any medical documentation from the hospital.

“The pathologist did not receive any examination done by the hospital. If the factsbearthetruththatthere was no doctor who attended tohim,thequestionisthento be asked, what medication

wasgiventohim.Ifindeeda nurse administered medication, on who's authority was that done Really and truly, I think the medical doctors are the best people to speak but this young man could have been saved,”Toddsaid.

He added, “From the reports we are getting, there seemstobealotofquestions that must be answered to care of persons in police custody.”

Addressing concerns about marks observed on Payne's body, Todd stated, “From the photographs and videostheyweren'tmarksof lacerations, these were impressions.Therewerefew

scars and I think the observations was from the pathologististhattherewere oldscars.”

According to police, Payne, a father of one, was found unconscious in the lockupsonTuesdayandwas rushed to the Enmore RegionalHospital,wherehe waspronounceddead.

In a statement issued Thursday, police said that “an investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding thematter.”

The incident has since sent shockwaves across the Haslington community and thewiderpublic,withfamily members demanding

Brazilians fined, deported over illegal mining

answers.

Payne'smother,Amanda Kato, has strongly alleged that her son may have been assaultedwhileincustody

“My son was murdered. WhenIwenttothemortuary and saw him, they turned him over, and I noticed marks of violence on his body like he had been kicked with boots,” she claimed.

Kato also raised concerns about the delay in being informed of her son's death, noting that she only learned of the tragedy when shevisitedthepolicestation on the morning he was scheduledtoappearincourt.

In its statement, the

had been detained in connection with a domestic violence matter. Police claimed that he complained of feeling unwell and was taken to the Enmore Regional Hospital for treatment After being returned to the station, he reportedly complained again, collapsed, and was rushed back to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Authorities have maintained that no marks of violence were observed on P a y n e ' s b o d y a s investigations continue into the circumstances surroundinghisdeath.

$30,000GYDforillegalmining,orsix weeks' imprisonment in default. They were also ordered to leave

Separately, Peixoto, who was charged only with illegal mining, pleaded guilty and was fined $30,000 GYD, or six weeks' imprisonment in default.

VACANCY WANTED

Sales Rep needed, ages 1830 years. Knowledge of vehicle model will be an asset. Contact: 619-1237.

Domestic (Live in option available), female cook and male & female workers for the interior :660-9093 / 6749999 / 661-5992.

One live in maid.Salary neg.Send photos on Whatsapp.Whatsapp 6254080/626-7040.

Are you looking for a caregiver,preferably on the E.B.D?.8am-4pm.Call 6637944.

MAI INVESTMENT INC

.Lot 1 Public Road

Ruimveldt,wanted salesman/ Van Driver.Please contact 638-0850 or 6527444

Security guards to work in Georgetown,must have a sound primary education.Call: 223-5273/4.

One Filing Clerk to work in office in Campbellville, G/ Town. Tele # 624-7436.

Able Bodied Security Guard to work in Geogetown. Tele # 624-7436.

Wanted one female cook. Please call 725-9281

Wanted one General Domestic. Please call 704-5054

SERVICES

Visa Application:U.S.A, Canada & UK:Graphics design, advertisements, wedding arch rentals.Tel:6267040.

Need a bus,call us,Matthew's Bus Service & Tours at 639-2663/689-6661 for your airport trips,Suriname etc.

VEHICLES FOR SALE

1 Honda CRV, includes TV, music system, alarm, reverse camera, spoiler, low mileage, PTT Series (first owner). Call: 649-0956.

FOR SALE

T RUCK TIRES 295 / 75R22.5 $40K EACH. FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL / WHATSAPP:+592-6883201.

Pure breed German Shepherd puppies for sale-Call Whatsapp : 648-0111.

Reliable housekeeping staff needed.Must be punctual and detail oriented.Call 2250198.

Reliable deskstaff needed.Must be punctual.Call 225-0198.

Vacancy Experienced cashier.Requirements: CXC Mathematics,English.Computer skills will be an asset.Contact: 226-6150/ 66157.

One clerk for TSI Eccles office English 1, Maths 2 call 615-9132 or email application to techserigy@gmail.com

Driver must be able to assist in workshop at Eccles, age 23-50, Car/ Van licence Call 615-9132.

Maid for East Bank area call 615-9132.

Tiler to lay small numbers of tiles call -615-9132

Vacancies exist for bulldozer operators,TM truck drivers,excavator operators & cook to work in interior.Contact: 223-5273/ 4,621-5907.

Vacancy exists for one Female House-keeper. Age 40 years & older. Please call 725-9281

LAND FOR LEASE

Wales Public Road, W.B.D, Parcel 21 (0.467 acres) 20,342 sq ft. Available Long term 20-25 years. Sign on property. Phone/Whatsapp: 615-2270/628-8619.

Wales Public Road, W.B.D, Parcel 25 (0.494 acres) 21,388 sq ft. Available Long term 2025 years. Sign on property. Phone/Whatsapp: 615-2270/ 628-8619.

Malgre Tout, W.B.D, (South of Masjid)-Lot "C" (1.347 acres) 58675 sq ft. Available Long term 20-25 years. Sign on property. Phone/ Whatsapp: 615-2270/6288619.

Versailles, W.B.D, (South of Aracari Hotel)-Lot 167 (4.6606 acres) 203,016 sq ft. Available Long term 20-25 years. Sign on property. Phone/ Whatsapp: 615-2270/6288619.

BUS SERVICE

Easter weekend trip to Suriname,call Matthew Bus Service & Tour for info 6392663/673-2348/6896661.Leaving 2nd April.

ENTERTAINMENT

Family Fun Aracari Resort! Crystal clear pool, safe kids & adult sections, Music & food. W.B.D. Call: 264-29469.

FOR RENT

Rooms for bachelors at Roxanne Burnham Gardens

$ 60,000 & $80,000 monthly self contain. call: 688-3798.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Aracari Hotel Renovated rooms, A/C, TV, Restaurant, Bar, Pool, Gym. Stay 7 nights, 1 FREE! Call: 2642946.

LEGAL NOTICE

2026/12-EST-FDA-NCDEM-CIV

IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE OF GUYANA

PROBATE AND ADMINISTRATION

(ADMINISTRATION)

FILE NO: 2026/12-ESTFDA-NC-DEM-CIV

BETWEEN:

In the matter of the Rules of the High Court Act, Chapter 3:02 -and-

In the matter of Section 35 the Deeds Registry Act, Chapter 5:01 of the Laws of Guyana, -and-

In the matter of an Application by Odayson Audwin Ashby and Rihanna Shameza Juman, for transfer of property situated at Lot numbered 835 Section

‘A’ being a portion of Block

‘X’ being a portion of Plantation Great Diamond situate on East Bank of Demerara River, in the County of Demerara, Republic of Guyana.

Applicants

NOTICE:

TAKE NOTICE that a Fixed Date Application was filed on the 6th day of February, 2026 by Odayson Audwin Ashby and Rihanna Shameza Juman both of lot 302 Independence Boulevard, La Penitence, Georgetown, Guyana for transfer of property situated at Lot numbered 835 Section

‘A’ being a portion of Block

‘X’ being a portion of Plantation Great Diamond situate on East Bank of Demerara River, in the

LEGAL NOTICE

County of Demerara, Republic of Guyana in the High Court in Georgetown, Demerara, where the Applicants ask for:

(i) An Order of the Court that the property described as Lot numbered 835 Section ‘A’ being a portion of Block ‘X’ being a portion of Plantation Great Diamond situate on East bank of Demerara River, in the County of Demerara, Republic of Guyana, the said Block X, containing an area of 678,3412 (six hundred seventy-eight decimal three four one two) acres as shown laid down and defined on a Plan by M.E. Rafiek, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated the 24th day of July ,1997 and deposited in the Deeds Registry on the 1st February ,1999 as more fully described on transport no.1206 dated the 8th June ,2007, be passed to and registered in the names of Odayson Audwin Ashby and Rihanna Shameza Juman, the Applicants named herein by the Registrar of Deeds.

(i) An Order of the Court that these proceedings be published in two consecutive issues of a newspaper of general circulation in Guyana.

(ii) That all persons having or claiming to have any right or title to the said property shall appear and establish their claims or otherwise show good cause as aforesaid before a Judge in Chambers on a day to be fixed by this Honourable Court.(iii) Such further or other relief as this Honourable Court may deem fit.AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 2nd day of March, 2026, the Applicants is directed to effect service of this Notice of Proceedings on you by publication of a Notice in two (2) consecutive Saturdays issues of a daily newspaper printed, published, and widely circulated in and around Guyana;AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that any person having or claiming any right or title may also filed an Affidavit in Defence within 4 (four) days of the date fixed for hearing of this matter.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that a copy of these proceedings be served on the Registrar of Deeds within 14 days of the date of this Order. AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that the Reg-

istrar of the Supreme Court create a Respondent’s code to facilitate the filing of an Affidavit in Defence by the Registrar of Deeds or any interested party if required.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that this matter stands adjourned to the 6th day of May, 2026 at 9:30 am before the Honourable Mr. Justice Nigel Niles via Zoom or in person in Court 9 at the High Court, Demerara. Zoom Information: Meeting ID: 685 665 7142 Passcode: court123.

FOR REGISTRAR

Dated this 16th day of March, 2026

LEGAL NOTICE

2025/1419-FD-PET-DEM IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE

DIVORCEAND MATRIMONIAL JURISDICTION

FAMILY DIVISION

PETITION NO. FD-1419

BETWEEN: (DANIELS) ROVENA ROSANA nee BUNBURY also known as ROVEINA ROSANA DANIELS also known as ROVINA ROSANA BUNBURY

Petitioner/Applicant -and(DANIELS) DAVE

Respondent TO: DAVE DANIELS

Formerly of St. Cuthbert’s Mission Mahaica River

Guyana

TAKE NOTICE that on the 24W ˆ day of December, 2025 a Petition for Divorce was filed against you by ROVENA ROSANA DANIELS nee BUNBURY Also known as ROVEINA ROSANA DANIELS also known as ROVINA ROSANA BUNBURY, the Petitioner/Applicant in the Family Division of the High Court in Georgetown, Demerara. AND FURTHER

LEGAL NOTICE

TAKE NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 2•H day of March, 2026, the Petitioner/Applicant was directed to effect service of her Petition on you by publication of Notice in two (2) consecutive Saturday issues of the Kaieteur Newspaper a daily newspaper printed, published and circulated in Guyana and on the world wide web (online). AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire you may appear or attend in person or by your duly authorized agent or Attorney-atLaw at the Registry of Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara where you will be issued with a certified copy of the Petition together with related documents

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire to defend this Divorce, then upon receipt of the certified copy of the Petition and Application, you must file an Acknowledgment of Service, Notice of Intention to Defend (Forms are available at the Registry), Answer and/ or Cross Petition Via the elitigation Platform(online)https:// ejudiciary.supremecourt.gy within 35 (thirty-five) days from the date of the final publication of this Notice. Your access code is HamKkL.

TAKE NOTICE that the Divorce is fixed for Directions Hearing on Monday the 4W ˆ day of May, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. in-person before the Honourable Justice Peter Hugh.

IN DEFAULT of your filing an Acknowledgement of Service. Notice of Intention to Defend, Answer and/or Cross Petition the Court may proceed in your absence and may make any Order it considers appropriate, including granting the Divorce.

The Registry of the Family Division of the High Court is located at the Law Courts [Georgetown, Demerara]. The office is open to the public between 8:00 am and 3:30 pm Mondays to Thursdays and 8:00 am to 2:30 pm on Fridays except on public holidays and on such other days as the Registry is closed.

Dated the 5th day of March, 2026 FOR

2025/989-FD-PET-DEM

IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE

FAMILY, DIVORCE AND MATRIMONIAL JURISDICTION

FAMILY DIVISION

PETITION NO. FD-989 BETWEEN: -

(THOMAS) AUBREY Petitioner -and-

(THOMAS) JOAN HYACINTH nee MARSHALL

Respondent

TO: JOAN HYACINTH THOMAS nee MARSHALL

Formerly of Lot 75 Church Ally Supply Mahaica East Coast Demerara

TAKE NOTICE that on the 8th day of September, 2025 a Petition for Divorce was filed against you by AUBREY THOMAS, the Petitioner/Applicant in the Family Division of the High Court in Georgetown, Demerara.

AND FURTHER TAKE NO-

TICE that as part of an Order made on the 2nd day of March, 2026, the Petitioner/Applicant was directed to effect service of her Petition on you by publication of Notice in two (2) consecutive Saturday issues of a daily newspaper printed, published and circulated in Guyana and on the world wide web (online).

AND FURTHER TAKE NO-

TICE that if you desire you may appear or attend in person or by your duly authorized agent or Attorney-at-Law at the Registry of the Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara where you will be served with a certified copy of the Petition together with related documents

AND FURTHER TAKE NO-

TICE that if you desire to defend this Divorce, then upon receipt of the certified copy of the Petition and Application, you must file an Acknowledgment of Service, Notice of Intention to Defend (Forms are available at the Registry), Answer and/or Cross Petition Via

Israel vows no let-up despite U.S.push to end war...

From page 13 talks are “going very well”. Negotiations and demands: Iran called the US proposal “one-sided and unfair” and said it has five nonnegotiable demands.

LEGAL NOTICE

the e-litigation Platform(online) https:// ejudiciary.supremecourt.gy within 35 (thirty-five) days from the date of the final publication of this Notice. Your access code is n2gHng.

TAKE NOTICE that the Divorce is fixed for Directions Hearing on Monday the 4th day of May, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. in-person before the Honourable Justice Peter Hugh.

IN DEFAULT of your filing an Acknowledgement of Service, Notice of Intention to Defend, Answer and/or Cross Petition the Court may proceed in your absence and may make any Order it considers appropriate, including granting the Divorce.

The Registry of the Family Division of the High Court is located at the Law Courts [Georgetown, Demerara]. The office is open to the public between 8:00 am and 3:30 pm Mondays to Thursdays and 8:00 am to 2:30 pm on Fridays except on public holidays and on such other days as the Registry is closed.

Dated the 4th day of March, 2026.

FOR REGISTRAR

Unacceptable demands: Iran’s five-point proposal, which includes reparations for the war and continued Iranian sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz, is viewed as likely unacceptable to the White House.

Actions over words: Mohamed Vall, reporting from Tehran, said Iranians are focusing on ongoing attacks,

not US claims of progress in talks, and see the continuing strikes as a sign that Washington is not serious about a deal.

US, Israel target Iran steel: US-Israeli air strikes damaged two major steel plants in Iran, Iranian media reports said.

Iran turns back ships: Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps said they had turned

back three ships trying to transit the Strait of Hormuz, adding the route was closed to vessels travelling to and from ports linked to its “enemies”. Analysts note that this incident demonstrates that “safe passage could not be guaranteed”.

The Israeli army has carried out airstrikes and launched a ground offensive

in southern Lebanon since a cross-border attack by Hezbollah on March 2. Iran’s Health Ministry and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) reports that more than 1,900 people have been killed in Iran since US-Israeli strikes began on February 28, 2026, with tens of thousands injured.

US$$ millions in gold leaving Guyana daily from Marudi

…APNUcitesresidents’ reportsofsmuggling

Op p o s i t i o n

Members of Parliament have raised alarm over what they describeasthedailyoutflow of millions of US dollars in goldfromtheMarudimining district, Region Nine, citing reportsfromresidentsduring arecentvisit.

Kaieteur News had reported that concerns were raisedoverthepresenceofa convictedBrazilianminerin the Marudi mining district.

During a recent meeting convened by the South Rupununi District Council ( S R D C ) a n d k e y stakeholders, the issue of Brazilian miners in the Rupununi, particularly Rodrigo Martins de Mello, also known as Rodrigo Cataratas, was spotlighted andassurancewasgiventhat the miner is no longer operatinginthearea.

The concerns were heightened by social media images showing Cataratas, in the company of senior governmentofficialshere.

A delegation from A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), including Dr. Terrence Campbell, Sharma Solomon, Saiku

Andrews and Sherod Duncan, was on a visit to RegionsEightandNine.

They reported that they

were prevented from

entering the Marudi Settlement by the Guyana

Geology and Mines Commission(GGMC).

TheMPswerereportedly

denied entry despite not engaging in any illegal mining, environmental breaches or activities that would warrant restriction underthelaw Theycontend that the move hindered their ability to carry out their parliamentary duties and engageconstituents.

Thepartysaidthebarrier to the settlement was initially open but was later closed and padlocked by authorities, effectively blocking the team from accessing the community

The opposition also criticised the GGMC's decision to deny entry to electedofficials,arguingthat it raises concerns about t r a n s p a r e n c y a n d accountability in the mining district.

Whileatthelocation,Dr Campbell said residents provided troubling accounts

of large-scale gold extraction allegedly taking place in the area. It was alleged that persons who owntheminingrightsinthe area have engaged the Brazilianstomineforgold.

“What I want to come back to share is that in speaking with one of the r e s i d e n t s i n t h i s neighborhood here, who briefedusonthefactthatUS $5 million dollars, US$5 million dollars in gold per day,isleavingsmuggledout tothiscountry.Buthedidn't want us to take his picture, because he said the Brazilians, they don't make

Man arrested after suspected cocaine found at Better Hope

joke…”hesaid.

Campbell further claimed that fear among residents is preventing them from speaking openly about thesituationandallegedthat foreignminersareoperating withlittlerestraint.

“Thisiswhatisgoingon. Guyanese are being threatened Guyanese are living in fear of their lives because of what is taking placebehindhere.”

“I hold no brief for the Mohameds (Azruddin and Nazar), but we hustling to extraditetheMohameds,and we bring in the criminals here, to hurt this country of millionUS,dollarsaday,US $5millionadayingold,and wehaveourpeoplescared.”

APNU has called the situation a violation of the rights of residents and an indication that authorities may be attempting to concealactivitiesinthearea. Notably there has been no official response from GGMC or the Ministry of NaturalResources.

“We've seen pictures with these Brazilian criminals meeting with the membersofthegovernment. So, they obviously know what is going on, and they

The suspected cocaine

A 56-year-old labourer is now in police custody after ranks discovered a quantity of suspected cocaine during an operation at Better Hope, East Coast Demerara on Thursday.Police said the operation was conductedbetween17:00hrs.and18:00hrs., duringwhichtheman,whoresidesalongthe Linden-SoesdykeHighway,wasstoppedand searched.

Accordingtoinvestigators,thesearchled

to the discovery of several pieces of a whitish,rock-likesubstanceconcealedinthe man's pants pocket The substance is suspected to be cocaine. The suspect was immediately arrested and taken to the Sparendaam Police Station, where the substance was weighed and amounted to approximately1.6grams.

The narcotic has since been lodgeda as policecontinuetheirinvestigations.

know that these people are criminals, and yet they are encouraging them to come and rape this country, rape thiscountry,andthreatenour people.Thismuststopyou.”

APNU and We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) had previously raised concerns about the convicted Brazilian miner reported presence in the Marudi district Concerns were raised regarding Cataratas being allowed to operate in Guyana's mining industry despite his conviction in Brazil and him being photographed with senior government officials in Guyana.

During the March 14th meeting, SRDC was informedthatCataratasheis no longer there. Toshaos at

the meeting expressed serious concern about criminalminingactivitieson Indigenous lands in other jurisdictions, particularly Brazil,andstressedthatsuch conduct would not be tolerated in the South Rupununi SRDC had reported that Brazilians currently involved in operations in the area are mainly technical personnel supporting specialised functions, such as operating heavy-duty machinery Emphasis was placed on the need for skills transfer and buildinglocalcapacity

According to a February 12, 2026 report by Mongabay, a Brazilian federal court sentenced Mello/ Cataratas to more than 22 years in prison after

findinghimguiltyofleading an illegal mining operation intheYanomamiIndigenous Territory in the Amazon Rainforest.

He was convicted on charges including leading a criminal organisation, money laundering, and illegal mining on protected indigenous land. The court alsoorderedhimtopaymore than 31 7 million reais (US$6.1million)indamages for environmental destructionandharmcaused toindigenouscommunities.

Court documents cited by Mongabay indicate that Mello managed a fleet of at least 23 aircraft used to transport miners, fuel, and supplies into Indigenous lands, as well as to move extractedminerals.

GPL launches “Solar Express Lane” to accelerate customer solar integration

The Guyana Power and Light Incorporated (GPL) has launched the LCDS Solar Express Lane, a

cess designed to fast-track the review, approval, and grid

photovoltaic (PV) systems for all eligible customers, including residential, commercial, and industrial users.

In a statement Thursday, GPL said the initiative supports the government's Low Carbon Development

Strategy (LCDS) 2030, which promotes renewable energy adoption, reduces emissions, and strengthens nationalenergyresilience.

Head of executive management, Mr. Kesh Nandlall, explained that the Express Lane is intended to give customers a clear and efficientpathwaytoinvestin solarenergy

“GPL recognises that customers are increasingly ready to invest in solar

responsibility is to ensure

Police probe East Bank

Demerara assault caught on video

Police have launched an investigation into an alleged assault on a 52-year-old woman after a video of the incident surfaced and began circulatingonsocialmedia.

The victim, who resides intheSaraJohannaSquatting Area, East Bank Demerara, reported the matter to investigators on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at approximately 14:30 hrs. at R e g i o n a l P o l i c e HeadquartersDivision4'B'.

Accordingtopreliminary reports,theincidentoccurred at the woman's residence on

Monday, March 23, 2025, and involved another female fromthesamecommunity Investigators have since confirmed that the altercation was captured on video,whichwaslatershared widely across social media platforms, prompting police intervention.

Statements have been obtained from both the victim and her daughter as authorities intensify efforts to locate and question the suspect.

Police say investigations areongoing.

Autopsy confirms hanging in death of Paramakatoi man

A post-mortem examination conducted on Thursday, March 26, 2026, has confirmed that 20-year-old Seth FredricksofParamakatoiVillage,NorthPakaraimas,diedas aresultofhanging.

Fredricks, who passed away on Monday, March 23, underwenttheexaminationinhishomevillage.

Government Pathologist Dr Nehaul Singh, who performedtheprocedure,determinedthatthecauseofdeath was compression to the neck, findings consistent with hanging.

Followingtheexamination,thebodywashandedoverto relativesforburial.

that the approval and integration process is efficient, transparent, and technically sound The LCDS Solar Express Lane allows customers to benefit more quickly from their solar investments while safeguarding the reliability

of the national grid,” Nandlallsaid.

Through the initiative, GPLhascreatedadedicated p

supported by focused technical resources to fasttrack eligible applications. The approach ensures full compliance with safety, engineering, and grid standards, aiming for timely

compromising system stability or operational integrity

The programme also enableseligiblecustomersto actively participate in the country's energy transition by generating electricity for

their own use and exporting excessenergytothenational grid Customers with approved solar installations may offset their electricity consumption and receive energy credits for surplus power supplied, in line with GPL's standard terms of supply and applicable agreements.

“

ar Express Lane ensures fairness, predictability, and sustainability, balancing individual investment benefits with the technical requirements of the national grid.

Our goal is to support solar integration for all

maintaining system stability for the country as a whole,” Nandlalladded

complementsGPL'sbroader 2025–2030 strategic plan, which aligns with national energy policy and supports

modernisation, and longterm sustainability GPL is encouraging all eligible customersinterestedinsolar installations to engage early and utilise the express lane fortimelyprocessingoftheir applications. Further details will be shared via the company'sofficialchannels.

Cricket West Indies confirms new format for 2026 West Indies Championship

ST JOHN’S, Antigua –Cricket West Indies (CWI) hasconfirmedtheformatfor the2026editionoftheWest IndiesChampionship,asthe organisation continues its comprehensivereviewofthe structure and delivery of regionalcrickettournaments forthe2026–2027cycle.

The revised format forms partofCWI’sbroaderstrategy

performance outcomes, and ensure the sustainable management of resources across regional cricket. The review involved extensive consultations with the Cricket Strategy and Officiating Committee, C

D

, Finance Department, and ExecutiveLeadershipTeam. Guided by a purpose-first approach,thereviewassessed what each tournament must

achieve – whether talent identification, selection

preparation, or pathway

redesigned formats to preserve relevance and competitive impact while managingoperationalcosts.

Under the new structure,

tournamentwillfeaturethree concurrent, three-match bilateral series played across

traditional West Indies Championshippointssystem beingutilised KeyElements: The six regional franchises will be seeded 1–6 based on their final standings at the endofthe2025editionofthe tournament. The winners of each bi-lateral contest will be ranked 1st through 3rd based on total points accumulated, with the topranked team advancing directlytotheGrandFinal.

Saturday March 28, 2026

ARIES(Mar.21–Apr.19)

You'll find that things are slipping nicely into place for you today, Aries Your persuasivemannerandgentle nudges are just enough to get peoplewhereyouwantthem.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20)

When faced with ten entrees onthemenu,itmightbehard for you to choose just one. Feelfreetoordertwoormore, Ta u r u s D o n ' t l e t indecisiveness slow you down.Atthesametime.

GEMINI(May21–June20)

Your dreams won't come true unless you believe in and act onthem,Gemini.Nooneelse is going to do it for you. Unless you have a fairy godmother, you need to take mattersintoyourownhands.

CANCER(June21–July22)

If people hassle you or give you a hard time about your appearance today, pay them nomind,Cancer Youhavethe righttoliveyourlifeanyway youwantto.

LEO(July23–Aug.22)

Reachforthepotofgoldatthe end of the rainbow, Leo. It's closerthanyouthink.Indeed, your dreams are completely within your reach, and there are huge forces at work helping you achieve your goals.

VIRGO(Aug.23–Sept.22)

Today is your day to dream and dream big, Virgo. Think aboutwhatitisthatyouwant most out of life. Aim your arrow to the stars and pull back your bow as far as possible. There's no limit to howfaryoucango.

LIBRA(Sept.23–Oct.22)

Expand your mind to its furthest reaches today, Libra. T

dible opportunity opening up for you in which you can make great strides in a creative realm.Followthemusic.

SCORPIO(Oct.23–Nov 21)

Your mind may seem rather cloudy today, Scorpio, but don't let this hinder you. In fact, you'll find that you can use this feeling of fantasy to your advantage. Try to bring moremagicintoyourlife.

SAGIT(Nov 22–Dec.21)

Today is an excellent day for you,oneinwhichyou'llfinda great deal of strength in your emotions, Sagittarius Trust that your instincts are serving youwell.

CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19)

Things might get a bit confusing for you today, Capricorn. Don't feel like you needtomakesenseofitall.In fact, this task may be impossible. Just be yourself. Let your creative nature shine through.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18)Mixyourrealitywithabit of fantasy today, Aquarius. Allowyourfeettocomeoffthe ground for a little while. Give yourselfarest.Takesometime to meditate and clear your mindofyourdailyworries.

PISCES(Feb.19–Mar.20)

Let yourself go into high creative mode and drift into a whole other world, Pisces. Escape your present reality and explore your fantasies through any sort of artistic endeavor Dreamasbigasyour mindallows.

Demerara Volleyball Association elects first female President at Annual General Meeting

TheDemeraraVolleyball Association (DVA) has announced the election of a new executive body followingitsAnnualGeneral Meeting In a historic milestone, Ms Odile Broomeshasbeenelectedas the Pre

During the Playoff round, the 1st placed team will take on the West Indies Academytomaintainmatch readiness and ensure fairnessofpreparationahead of the final. While the 2nd and 3rd-ranked teams will meet in a Playoff match to determine the second finalist Streamlined for Momentum into the Home Series Window CWI has intentionally scheduled this year’stournamentclosertothe startoftheinternationalhome series, which commences against Sri Lanka in June, allowing players to achieve optimal match readiness just aheadofapackedsummer

Whiletherevisedstructure represents a shift from previous format, participating territories have embraced the change with focused preparation for what is anticipated to be a highly competitive tournament, maintaining the intensity and standards expected of the region’s premier firstclasstournament.Directorof Cricket,MilesBascombe,said that the new format will still deliver on performance objectives. “Despite the reduction in matches, we anticipate keen contests. The change in dates has allowed for an extended preparation period, with most franchises holdingmultipletrialmatches, setting up intense internal competitionforplaces.”

He added, “The West Indies Championship will form a key part of talent identification and preparation for the home series, and the bilateralseriesformatwilladd an interesting dimension, closer to mirroring the Test cricketformat”

As part of its continued modernisation of regional cricket, CWI is also exploring the use of balltracking technology during theChampionshiptosupport the talent identification process and strengthen performanceanalysis.

Association, becoming the first female to hold this positionintheorganization’s history. The newly elected executive committee is as follows: President: Ms. Odile Br

Vice President: Mr. Clarence Williams Secretary: Ms. Kimesha WallaceTreasurer: Mr LenardoJohn Assistant Secretary/Treasurer: Mr Nicholas Khan Public Relations Officer (PRO): Mr ChristopherMcPherson

Speakingofherelection, Broomes expressed gratitude and optimism: “It is an honour to serve as the first female President of the Demerara Volleyball Association. Together with my team, I will work tirelessly to elevate volleyball in Demerara and inspirethenextgenerationof players.”

The DVA looks forward to a new era of inclusivity, development, and sporting excellence under this executivebody

This dynamic leadership team is committed to advancing volleyball in Demerara by ensuring more consistentplayandfostering the growth of the sport across the region The Association aims to strengthen community engagement, develop talent, and create opportunities for athletestoexcelbothlocally andnationally

PresidentAli reaffirms...

Frompage27

ENet, Guyana Lottery Company, Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, Trophy Stall, Impressions, Avinash Contracting and Scrap Metal, Shawn’s Mini Mart, Giftland Group of Companies, Kris Jagdeo Construction Company, Montra Restaurant &

Lounge, Windsor Estates, GuyOil, ANSA McAL, SuperBet Guyana, Digital Technology, Camille’s Academy, Navin and Sons Construction, Demerara Mutual Life Insurance, C

Grassrootsdevelopmentcriticaltolong termadvancement–CoachDevnonWinter

Wi t h t h e

Grassroots

F o o t b a l l ProgrammeattheEcclesEE Ground set to continue Saturday from 16:00hrs, facilitatedbyCoachDevnon Winter, the experienced national and club Coach has stated that this introductory segment of the game is vital forlongtermdevelopment.

The programme started twoweeksagoaspartofthe ongoinginauguralEastBank Inter Village Football Tournament organised by

Sports Extra which has seen the welcome return of competitivetotheEastBank and Soesdyke Linden Highwaycorridors.

It’s been growing from the first week which means that the youths are eager to learn and to be involved in somethingthatisexciting.

”I do understand the importance of this segment of development and I can honestlysaythatthisisvery encouragingandexcitingfor me Once this continues consistently, you are

creating a base for any football development in Guyana We need to encourage lots of grassroots programmes across the country.”

Winter stated that with Guyana’s population touchingonemillionpersons now,weshouldhaveatleast one hundred (100) grassroot programmes around the country

Going forward, Coach Winter shared that the quantity and quality of players would increase and

improve over time, but consistency is required. He also alluded to the fact that propermanagementmustbe thestandard.

”The pool of coaches wouldhavetoincreasebased on the number of players to haveamanageableplayerto coach ratio which would ensuremaximumimpactand ensure quality and attention foreachplayer.”

It was also noted that parents, former players and volunteers are important pillarstobeadded.

”Iwouldliketoalsostate that you cannot give development a break, once youhavestarted,youhaveto keepgoing.

The best teacher is the game and repetition is development. If you don’t repeat one thousand times something you are not good in, then you would not develop.”

”Equipment is also

programme and I am confidentthatthiswillgrow

into something big across Guyana with the support of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, its sister Ministries and the National Sports Commission, all partnering.”

Meanwhile, former Guyana Football Federation Technical Director, Ian Greenwood who now works with FIFA, dropped by the session on Saturday last and commended Winter for the programme which he said is a positive move and should besupported.

Transgenderathletesbarredfromfemalecategoryevents

L A U S A N N E , Switzerland, (Reuters) -

Only biological female athletes, whose gender has been determined by a onetime gene-screening test, will now be eligible to take part in female category events at the Olympic Games, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) saidonThursday

Thenewrulesessentially stop transgender athletes from competing in female category events at the Olympics They had previously been eligible to compete at the Games once clearedbytheirrespective

Following an 18-month

consultation phase, the IOC unveiled its policy for the Olympic Games, Youth Olympics and Games qualifiers It is widely expected to be adopted by international sports federations and become a universal rule for competitors in female elite sports, after years of fragmented regulation that ledtomajorcontroversies.

All athletes wanting to qualifyortakepartinfemale category events from the LA2028 Olympics onwards willhavetoundergoanSRY gene test to determine their eligibility

“Based on scientific

evidence,theIOCconsiders thatthepresenceoftheSRY geneisfixedthroughoutlife and represents highly accurate evidence that an athletehasexperiencedmale sex development,” the IOC saidinastatement.

The screening will be conducted via saliva, cheek swaborbloodsampleandis unintrusive compared to other methods, the IOC said, and will be done only ‘once in theathlete’scareer SRY stands for sex determiningregionYgene.

The Olympic body had long declined to apply any universal rule on transgender participation in

the Olympics and in 2021 instructed international federationstocomeupwith theirownguidelines.

New IOC President Kirsty Coventry did a Uturn immediately after taking over in June last y e a r , s a y i n g h e r organisationwouldtakethe lead for a uniform approach

“AttheOlympicGames, even the smallest margins can be the difference betweenvictoryanddefeat,” Coventry said. “So, it is absolutelyclearthatitwould not be fair for biological males to compete in the femalecategory Inaddition,

in some sports it would simplynotbesafe.”

“I really believe this policy is foundationally based in science and led by medical experts,” she told a pressconference.“Weknow thatthistopicissensitive.”

“Safety on the field of playandfairness.Oneofthe thingsweliketoseeinsport isfairandequaltreatmentof everyone on that field of play Those are the two personal reasons I felt very stronglyaboutthis.”

The new rules have no retroactive power and no impact on grassroots or amateursports

RARE EXCEPTIONS

There are exceptions,

theIOCsaid,forrarecases ofsexdevelopment “ Wi t h t h e r a r e exceptionofathleteswitha diagnosis of Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (CAIS) or other rare differences/disorders in sex development (DSDs) who not `benefit from the anabolic and/or performance-enhancing effects of testosterone, no athlete with an SRYpositive screen is eligible for competition in the female category at an IOC event,”theIOCsaid Athletes with an SRYpositive screen would continuetobeincludedinall other classifications for whichtheyqualify

2026 CWI Rising Stars...

Frompage27

young players the best possible platform to showcase their skills.” “In designing this year’s structure, we focused on expanding opportunities for participation, strengthening the qualityofplayerassessment,andensuringthatouridentification processes are as thorough and far-reaching as possible. Importantly, this format keeps the emphasis on player growth, evaluation and long-term potential. This is about building a strong foundation forWest Indies cricket and ensuring that our young players are well prepared for each stage of the pathway, ultimatelyleadingtotheinternationallevel,”headded.

The developmental focus of the tournament is also being supported by the presence of former international players and experienced coaches within several team management units. Former international and regional first-class players, including StuartWilliams(LeewardIslands),RobertSamuelsandSheldon Cottrell(Jamaica);alongwithveteranregionalandinternational coaches Roderick Estwick (Barbados) and Dalton Polius (Windward Islands), will provide invaluable guidance to the youngtalentthroughoutthetournament.

FULLTOURNAMENTSCHEDULE:

Round1:March29th

GuyanavsBarbados@LusignanCricketGround,Lusignan, Guyana

Leeward Islands vs Windward Islands @Coolidge Cricket Ground,Coolidge,Antigua

Jamaica vs Trinidad and Tobago @Melbourne Park, Kingston,Jamaica

Round2:March31st

GuyanavsBarbados@LusignanCricketGround,Lusignan, Guyana

Leeward Islands vs Windward Islands @Coolidge Cricket Ground,Coolidge,Antigua

Jamaica vs Trinidad and Tobago @JB Cricket Ground, St. Catherine,Jamaica

Round1:April2nd

Guyana vs Barbados @Everest Cricket Club Ground, Georgetown,Guyana

Leeward Islands vs Windward Islands @Coolidge Cricket Ground,Coolidge,Antigua

Jamaica vs Trinidad and Tobago @JB Cricket Ground, St. Catherine,Jamaica

Round1:April4th

GuyanavsBarbados@Bourda,Georgetown,Guyana Leeward Islands vs Windward Islands @Bethesda Sports Gound,Antigua

Jamaica vs Trinidad and Tobago @Boys Town, Kingston, Jamaica

Round1:April6th

GuyanavsBarbados@Bourda,Georgetown,Guyana Leeward Islands vs Windward Islands @Coolidge Cricket Ground,Coolidge,Antigua

Jamaica vs Trinidad and Tobago @Melbourne Park, Kingston,Jamaica

PresidentAli reaffirms commitment to One GuyanaT10Tapeball Blast

President Irfaan Ali has reaffirmed his commitment to the One Guyana T10 TapeballBlast,meetingwith organisers at State House to greenlight the roadmap for the competition’s fourth edition. Since its inception, the tournament has evolved

from a local pastime into a premier fixture on the nationalsportingcalendar PresidentAli, serving as the tournament’s patron, lauded the initiative for its r o l e i n t a l e n t identification

notably fast-tracking the

2026CWIRisingStarsUnder-15 Men’sTournamentbowlsoff Sundayundernewbilateralformat

ST JOHN’S, Antigua –

The region’s most promising junior men’s cricketers will take to the field tomorrow, Sunday, March 29 as the 2026 CWI Rising Stars Under-15 Men’s Tournament gets underway under a revised bilateralseriesformat.

The start of the tournament marks a key milestoneinCWI’songoing review of the structure and delivery of regional cricket

competitions for the 2026–2027 period, with a focus on strengthening playerpathways,enhancing performance assessment, andensuringthesustainable management of resources

during a challenging financialperiod.

As the foundational stage of the regional development pathway, the Under-15 Tournament is primarily focused on talent identification In shaping this year’s format, priority was placed on maintaining playing opportunities, broadening scouting reach, and creating meaningful development experiences for players across the Caribbean. In keeping with this approach, no overall winner will be declared at theendoftheseries,withthe emphasis placed squarely

onassessingandidentifying talent rather than team standings or championship outcomes.

The 2026 edition of the 50-Over competition will feature three concurrent, five-match bilateral series played across three host territories(Guyana,Antigua andJamaica).Thisstructure maintains a strong volume of competitive matches while enabling greater visibility for players in different conditions and environments It also supports valuable touring experience for visiting teams and provides host t e r r i t o r i e s w i t h opportunities to showcase theirprogrammesandtalent onhomesoil.

DirectorofCricketMiles Bascombe spoke to the factors that we considered during the review process and the areas prioritised in the identification of alternativeformats

“The start of this tournament represents an important step in how we continue to support youth development across the region, while carefully managing financial resources At the Under-15 level, our priority is clear –identifyingtalentandgiving (Continuedonpage26)

maintain its footprint across allcounties.

To manage the growing number of entries, the tournamentwillbecontested across four primary zones: Berbice, East Bank / West Demerara, Essequibo and Georgetown / East Coast Demerara.

In a significant shift following a presidential mandate, this year’s schedule will feature a robust expansion of the female category More matches h

likes of recent West Indies selectee Quentin Sampson from the Tapeball circuit to theregionalstage.

The 2026 edition, set to bowloffinearlyAugust,will

been integrated into the primary schedule, ensuring the women’s game receives equalbillingandprime-time exposure.

For the first time, the tournament’s climax will

shift locations for a grand spectacle.

The National Finals are scheduled for mid-October attheAnnaReginaNational Stadium in Essequibo, a

celebratingthetournament’s nationwidereach.

“The expansion has made this tournament a true breeding ground for talent,” President Ali noted during the briefing “It’s about giving notoriety to the nation’sbestwhilefostering unitythroughsport.”

Beyond the domestic trophy, organisers briefed thePresidentona“marquee” International Tapeball Tournament slated for later

thisyear

The proposed event seeks to pit the standout performers of the One GuyanaBlastagainstinvited teams from Asia, North America,andtheCaribbean.

Thismoveisdesignedto

y G

yana’s burgeoning reputation as a hub for sport tourism while providing local Tapeball specialistswithaplatformto compete against global opposition.

In 2025, the tournament was a resounding success and received support from: Kares Engineering Inc, the Office of the President, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, KFC Guyana, StarRentals,BanksDIH, (Continuedonpage24)

Lusignan Golf Club to host SBM Offshore Golf Tournament

Lusignan Golf Club Captain Ayube Subhan (left) shares a handshake with Country General Manager of SBM Offshore Guyana, Martin Cheong, ahead of the upcoming SBM Offshore Golf Tournament.

The Lusignan Golf Clubwillhostthe h i g h l y anticipated SBM Offshore Golf Tournament this Sunday, March 29, 2026, withastrongfieldofgolfers expectedtocompeteinwhat is anticipated to be an

excitingandcompetitiveday ofgolf.

The tournament will be played over 18 holes in a Medal Play format with a shotgun start scheduled for 8:00hrs.

Players will compete in two flights based on handicap,withtheflightsset at 0–14 handicap and 15–36 handicap, ensuring competitive play across the field.

A number of prizes will be up for grabs, including BestNetprizesineachflight with trophies awarded for first,secondandthirdplaces. Playerswillalsocompetefor OverallBestNetandOverall Best Gross, along with

special prizes for Nearest to the Flag on Hole #4 and LongestDriveonHole#5.

Registration for the tournament is currently open, and interested players can contact the Lusignan Golf Club on 620-0093 to register Registration will close at 13:00 hrs today, Saturday,March28,2026.

Club PRO, Dr Joaan Deo, expressed appreciation toSBMOffshoreGuyanafor sponsoring the tournament and supporting the development of golf at Lusignan.

She noted that corporate support continues to play an important role in the growth of the sport and the club’s

ability to host competitive tournamentsforitsmembers andinvitedplayers.

SBM Offshore Guyana is part of the global SBM Offshoregroup,acompany specializing in floating production, storage and offloading vessels within the offshore oil and gas industry. The company c

Guyana’s energy sector and has been supportive of community and sporting initiatives

The presentation of prizes is expected to take placeatapproximately12:30 hrsfollowingtheconclusion ofthetournament.

YarrowkabraSecondarywin despitebeingputunderpressure

Playcontinuedwith theRegion4,East Bank Demerara zone of the MCYS NSC 11 Edition Janet Jagan & Cheddi Jagan Memorial schoolgirls&boysWindball Cricket played at the National Gymnasium. The tournament is organised by Sports Officer A. Munroe

and competition in the Janet Jagan Memorial Girls segment show defending N

Yarrowkabra Secondary School come back to win their game despite losing quick wickets in the first over with the bowler on a hat-trick.

Camille’sAcademyafter

been invited to take first strike made 69-1, with Samera Mohammed 24 and SueannBaboolall14.

Yarrowkabra Secondary reached their target losing 2 wickets at 74-2, off 3 overs. MakaylaMendonzaledwith 28 and Luana Williams 24. Bowling for Cammile’s Academy Kyra Bruce took 2- 22 initially putting Yarrowkabra under pressure inthefirstover Diamond Secondary School scored 31- 4, with Leondra Joseph 10. Kyra Bruce 2-4 & Sueann Baboolall 2-7 led the bowling for Camille’s Academy who replied with 35-0 off 2.1 overs. Sameera Mohammed top scored with 26.

OverintheCheddiJagan MemorialBoyscompetition, Camille’s Academy after electing to take first strike, scored 65-1, Yuvraj Bhogwhandin 35 and DarwinLaRose16werethe

topbatters. Diamond Secondary School were restricted to 60-1 in reply, after needed eight runs off the final

Action in one of the matches.

over, Nazeem Persaud 20, Paul McTunic 17 topped theirbattingefforts. Play is scheduled for Region 6 today, Saturday

March 28, at the Port

anniversary date of Janet Jagan)

Ann’s Grove hunt second win against New Campbellville Sec’

The race for

k n o c k o u t

qualification sharpenstodayasroundtwo of the 12th Annual Massy Distribution Secondary Schools Boys’ Under-18 Football Championship kicks off at the Queen’s College ground, with the Petra Organisation rolling out another packed day of school football in Georgetown.

After a thrilling opening round, several teams have already laid down early markers, and now the pressure rises. Ann’s Grove Secondary headlines the morningfixturesfollowinga crucial 4–2 win over the 2025 champions Dolphin Secondary They return to action today at 10:30hrs against New Campbellville Secondary, who are already under pressure after falling toBelladrumintheiropener Ann’s Grove will be aiming

to build momentum, while New Campbellville face an uphill task to revive their campaign.

On the adjacent pitch, AnnaReginaSecondaryand East Ruimveldt Secondary square off in a crucial unbeatenclash.AnnaRegina carryaslightedgeaftertheir 3–2 victory over President’s

College, while East Ruimveldtarestillsearching fortheirfirstwinfollowinga draw with Patentia. With valuable group points at stake, both sides know a positive result could define their path to the knockout stage. Midday action sees Zeeburg Secondary looking to extend their winning run against a determined YarrowkabraSecondary,who areeagertobouncebackfrom defeat At the same time, CharlestownSecondarymeet New Amsterdam Secondary, a side that impressed with a disciplined, counter-

Massy Distribution Schools U18 Football kick off round 2 action today

Part of last weekend’s action as Lodge Secondary conquered New Central High.

attackingdisplayintheirwin over Good Hope Secondary and now eyeing a second straight victory The afternoon fixtures continue

with Wes

a Secondary taking on Saints Stanislaus College, while Good Hope Secondary will try to recover from their

openinglosswhentheyface StJohn’sCollege.

Closing out the day, Santa Rosa Secondary of region one, battle Brickdam Secondaryinwhatpromises to be a lively encounter, while West Ruimveldt

Secondary and Hope

Secondary clash with both teamsstillfirmlyinthehunt forknockoutqualification.

Spots in the knockout round remains open, the stakesnestleattheendofthe tunnel. While only the top fourteamswillclaimprizes, finishing in the top eight securesentryintothePetra’s League Championship, offering a pathway to the Republic Bank U18 League andachancefortwoschools to represent Guyana at the KFCInternationalSeries.

As round two unfolds and round three looms, the marginforerrorcontinuesto shrink. Every match, every point, and every goal now

carryaddedweightinwhatis shaping up to be another fiercely competitive chapter ofschoolfootball.

Sunday,March29f ixtures

CharitySecondaryvs LodgeSecondary 9:45am Patentia

Secondaryvs President’sCollege

10:30amMackenzie

High vs Bartica

Secondary 1 1:30amNew

CentralHigh vs Vryman Erven Secondary 12:15hrs

StJosephHigh vs TheBishopsHigh 13:15hrsDolphin Secondaryvs BelladrumSecondary 14:00hrsCarmel Secondary vs AnnadaleSecondary 15:00hrs

Chase

AcademyF vs West

Minster Secondary 15:45hrs

Ann’s Grove hunt second win against

Massy Distribution Schools U18 Football kick off round 2 action today