Kaieteur News

U.S. aircraft in flyover of Georgetown

withculturalceremony

Two U.S. Marine Corps

AV-8B Harrier II aircraft

took part in a closely coordinated flyover of Georgetown during President Irfaan Ali’s inaugurationcelebration.

According to the United States Embassy here, the flyover symbolises Washington’s full solidarity withthepeopleofGuyanaas the two countries advance shared goals of peace, prosperity and regional security

Continuedonpage3 …asPres.Alicelebratesre-election

Following the formal part of his inauguration, a cultural show was held the KingstonSeawallEsplanade Georgetown, featuring among other things the flyover by the United States aircraft.

The flyover was conducted in collaboration with the Government of Guyana and approval by the Guyana Defence Force. The inauguration ceremony brought together the president, his family, members of his party, and a large audience of supporters tomarkthebeginningofhis newterm.

Following the flyover, the cultural show commenced with a vibrant display of Guyana’s rich e t h n i c h e r i t a g e Performances included traditional dances by the R i v e r s i d e A n g e l s Indigenous Dancers, the National Dance Company with an African-themed piece by the Joro Dance Company, the Berbice DelightsDanceGroup,anda traditional Chinese lion danceperformance.Musical acts also lit the stage, featuring local talents such as Carlvin Burnett, Sonia Singh, Mark Ferdinand, Soca Monarch Queen Diana Chapman, Adrian Dutchin, andmanyothers.

The event saw notable appearances, including Prime Minister of St. Lucia, Philip Pierre; acting Prime Minister of Grenada, Lennox Andrews; former presidents, former prime minister of Guyana, Samuel

Hinds;andU.S.Ambassador toGuyana,NicoleTheriot.

Speaking with Kaieteur News after the event, MinisterofEducation,Priya Manickchand expressed optimismaboutthefutureof the education sector, especially given the ruling party’sincreasedmajorityin parliament.

H o w e v e r , s h e emphasised the importance of a strong and effective opposition, stating, “I just want to say that the oppositionhasaroletoplay and they are extremely important for democracy I would like to see a vibrant, constructive opposition. It’s anewopposition,Ihopeit’s not going to be the mediocrity we’ve met with, but instead a more substantiveandconstructive contribution to nationbuilding. That is what I would like to see, and that wouldbeabeautifuldayfor thiscountry.”

Pakuri Toshao Alvoro Simonalsosharedhishopes for the Indigenous communitiesacrossGuyana. Reflectingonthepresident’s past agenda and looking ahead,hestated,“Ithinkthe president agenda that he set out for the last five years, I think with this new five years,IthinktheAmerindian people from across the country can look forward to development that could exceed what they expect. I have no doubt that the president is going to ensure that the Amerindians communitiesaroundthe

‘Law school coming to Guyana’

President Irfaan Ali announced on Sunday that workwillbeginimmediately to establish Guyana’s very own law school with approval being granted by the Council of Legal Education.

He was at the time making his first address to the nation after being sworn in as the ninth executive president of Guyana, following a declaration of the results by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) on Saturday evening.

Ali told a gathering on the lawns of state house of mostly party supporters that his government will be able to commence the work “ based on the recent approval granted by the Council for Legal Education…”

He said with the setting of the school, hundreds of persons will be able to get qualifiedasattorneys-at-law “right here in country and they will be having the full rights to practice in CARICOM countries as well.”

InNovemberoflastyear, the Kaieteur News had reported that government was still awaiting the approval of the Council of LegalEducationoftheWest Indies(CLE)toestablishthe nation’sfirstlawschool.

At the time Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, SC, in an invited comment to Kaieteur News, confirmedthattheprocessto establish a law school in Guyana was ongoing, although permission was granted by the council for a feasibility study and other groundworktobedone.

Initially,theGovernment of Guyana had set up a committee to deal specifically with the establishmentofthisschool. Thatcommitteeischairedby Nandlall and during an engagement in Jamaica last year theAG said he updated the council on the progress Guyanawasmakingtowards ensuring the approval is granted.

The feasibility study was handed over to the CouncilforLegalEducation (CLE), a regional organisation which operates the Hugh Wooding Law School in the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago, the NormanManleyLawSchool in Jamaica, and the Eugene Dupuch Law School in The

…Presidentannouncesapproval grantedforGuyanatosetuplawschool

Bahamas. Nandlall had said the report was handed over duringameetingoftheCLE.

Alreadymorethanfiveacres of land have already been identified at Turkeyen, next totheUniversityofGuyana, for the construction of the lawschool.

Meanwhile, speaking during an episode of his weekly programme “Issues in the News”, the AG had noted the government had expressed its intentions to c o l l a b o r a t e w i t h

stakeholders and implement initiatives to expand education opportunities in the legal field, even amidst thenation’songoingmassive legalreform.

“We are passing too many important laws not to have continuing education. The legal profession is a noble and honourable profession, and I can’t imagine that they will reject the idea of continuing education, ” asserted Nandlall.

U.S.aircraftinflyover...

Frompage2 country benefit from the best of the best services that the countryhastoofferandIcandefinitelyseethat,”hesaid.

Former prime minister, Samuel Hinds echoed these sentimentssaying,“Iexpectthathewilldeliveronallthat he has promised. We will continue to develop our people andourcountry Mostimportantly,ourpeoplehavetotake responsibilityinutilisingalltheinfrastructurebeingputin place,sowecanbuildagreatnation.”

GuyanesesingerSoniaSingh,whoalsoperformedatthe inauguration,reflectedonhergrowthasanartistinGuyana. Sheexpressedmodestexpectations,saying,“Idon’texpect anything;Ijusthopetheycontinuewhattheyweredoing.”

Canadian firm announces acquisition of two large-scale gold prospecting licences days before elections

Canadian gold miner, G2 Goldfields has announced that the Ministry of Natural Resources and Guyana Geology and Mines Commission approved the issuance of two large-scaleProspectingLicences (PL).

G2 made the disclosure on August 28. In a statement, the company noted that the PL’s encompass G2’s high-grade Oko-GhanieGoldDepositwhich islocatedinGuyana.

The PL encompass the Oko andGhanieDeposits,1.5million ounces indicated at 3.40 g/t Au and1.6millionouncesinferredat 2.48g/tAu,withacombinedarea of approximately 17,451 acres andreplace11separatemediumscale mining permits previously held in the name of Guyanese entrepreneursthroughoptionagreements.

Notably, the PL have a three-year term withtworenewalrightsforoneyeareachand provides for the right of occupation and exclusive right to explore for gold and preciousminerals.G2notedthatoverthelast two years, comprehensive environmental baseline studies have been conducted via third party consultants. The company noted that these studies were designed to recommend actions for effective project design,regulatorycomplianceandtosupport the preparation of an Environmental Social ImpactAssessment(ESIA).

G2’sChiefExecutiveOfficer(CEO)Dan Noone, said, “Securing the Prospecting Licences for our flagship Oko-Ghanie Deposit is a significant milestone in the advancement of the Project and underscores our strong working relationship with the GovernmentofGuyana.”

He added that the approval provides a

clear pathway to advance exploration and development of Guyana’s “world-class gold system.” “With this licence in hand, we are wellpositionedtounlockthefullpotentialof this highly prospective gold district and rapidly drive the advancement of this Project,”Nooneadded.

For his part, Patrick Sheridan, Executive Chairman highlighted that Guyana was recently recognized as a top ten jurisdiction globallyformininginvestment.

“Thismilestoneisatestamenttoboththe prolific prospectively of the Guiana Shield and the Government of Guyana’s strong support for the rapidly advancing gold mining industry, and foreign investment development in general. The Oko Gold Project is the second multi-million-ounce goldminethatourgrouphasdiscoveredand developedinGuyanainthelasttwentyyears, and we remain excited to continue to be a supportivepartnerinthedevelopmentofthe industry,”Sheridanstated.

KaieteurNews

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EDITORIAL

Put Guyana first

President Irfaan Ali was sworn-in yesterday for a second term. His resounding re-election marks a defining momentinGuyana’smodernpoliticaljourney.Itisbotha personalvictoryforthepresidentaswellasacollectivetest for a nation on the cusp of profound transformation. The peoplehaveentrustedDr Aliwithanotherfiveyearsatthe helm,andwiththattrustcomesimmenseresponsibility As hesettlesintohissecondandfinalterm,theexpectationsof the Guyanese people are clear: leadership that is more inclusive,governancethatismoreaccountable,andresults thatspeaktotheneedsofeverycitizen.

Guyana’s Parliament is now home to three opposition parties: the tried and tested, A Partnership for National Unity, that has now been reduced to the minority opposition;thenewWeInvestinNationhoodpartyledby US sanctioned businessman,Azruddin Mohamed and the Forward Guyana Movement being led by Attorney, AmanzaWalton-Deir

This new configuration presents both challenges and opportunities. It signals a shifting political landscape, where dialogue and collaboration will be essential. President Ali must resist the temptation to govern with arrogance,giventhathispartyhasincreaseditsmajorityin theHousemovingfrom33seatsinthe12thParliamentto now 36 seats. He also must recognise that the elections campaignisoverandthemudslinging,thoughnotdesirable atanyjunctureoughttobeputaway

The fact that we now have three opposition parties in thatwillberepresentedinParliamentshouldnotbeseenas an inconvenience, but rather embraced as a moment to broadenthedemocraticconversation.Thethreeopposition parties represent sizable segments of the Guyanese population. Their voices matter Their concerns must be heard.Apresident who governs for all must find ways to build bridges across the parliamentary aisle, forging consensus where possible, and maintaining respect where differencesremain.

At his inauguration, President Ali spoke forcefully about “killing” domestic violence.These were strong and welcomewords.Fortoolong,Guyanahasstruggledunder the weight of a scourge that has seen scores of women brutally murdered at the hands of their partners. Families have been torn apart. Children have been left orphaned. Communities have been scarred. While rhetoric can inspire, what Guyanese now expect is action, clear, measurable,anddecisiveaction.IfPresidentAlisucceeds in building systems of protection, justice, and education thatsubstantiallyreducedomesticviolence,hislegacywill not just be political; it will be deeply human. This nation mustbecomeonewherewomenandgirlsfeelsafeintheir homesandintheircommunities.

Another urgent priority is poverty reduction. Despite Guyana’s newfound wealth from oil and gas, too many citizens continue to live in abject poverty.The disconnect between national revenue and household prosperity is widening,andthismustnotbecomethedefiningparadoxof the oil era. President Ali has spoken of tackling poverty head-on, and Guyanese will be watching carefully to see thatthisisnotmerelyaspirational.Socialsafetynetsmust bestrengthened.Jobcreationmustmovebeyondrhetoricto tangible opportunities in every region. Investment in healthcare,education,andhousingmustliftupthelivesof those who still feel excluded from Guyana’s muchheraldedtransformation.

The oil sector itself remains a sore point of national frustration.The2016ProductionSharingAgreementwith ExxonMobil continues to be regarded as lopsided, a deal thatsellsGuyana’spatrimonytoocheaply Inhisfirstterm, PresidentAlimadelittleprogressinrenegotiatingoreven compelling Exxon to revisit the terms of that agreement. This remains one of the biggest disappointments of his leadership. In his second term, he must summon the courage and the strategic will to do better Contract

‘Perspective on the 2025 elections’

DEAREDITOR

On16August2025,after reading various media comments on the content of the manifesto of the APNU/WPA coalition, I WhatsApped the following tosomeonewhoisveryclose to the coalition to give myselfsomeassurancethatI did not miss its dealing with what is arguably the most important political issue in Guyanatoday.

‘Hi…Ihavenotyetread your manifesto, but I am being inveigled to ask you what’s in the manifesto to stop Aubrey (Norton) from behaving just like or worse than Jagdeo (under whose watch Guyana has been designated a full blown autocratic state) if you win the elections.’The answer I receivedwas,‘That’satough question. The short answer Nothing!’

On 21 August 2025, I asked the following of wellplaced and usually wellinformed source: ‘I was just asked a question: Why is Village Voice supporting WIN (We Invest in

Nationhood)?’The answer I received was, ‘Because of their political agenda which bothofusareawareof.’

‘Everything changed but remains the same.’ While external circumstances may evolve or change, certain core elements or principles can persist, and the 2025 general and regional elections in Guyana is as near as one could possibly come to an example of this condition.

ThePeople’sProgressive Party(PPP),whichhasbeen ruling Guyana for almost three decades, is supported overwhelmingly by those of East Indian ethnicity, who are about 40% of the population. Guyana has a presidential plurality, winner-take-all political system,andoverthelasttwo decadestheIndianoligarchy that controls the PPP has been resisting universal recommendations/demands to make governance in Guyana more ethnically inclusive.

The problem is not the existenceofethnicparties:it

is existence of two large ethnic parties in a structure of governance that does not facilitate democratic expressions The party oligarchy determines who becomes the president and the members of parliament, thepresidencyistakenbythe partywiththehighestvoteat the elections and the legislaturecanbedominated by a single vote majority party. Apart from the j u d i c i a r y, w h o s e independence is extremely precarious in the existing context, the separation of powers, a central feature of democratic governance, is dead, and the extreme loyaltyethnicvotinginduces means that a united public opinion to hold government accountable is largely absent.

Thus, over the last two decades, in every sphere of their lives, the PPPhas been deliberately supressing and discriminating against the other ethnicities, but particularly the Africans giventheirnumeralstrength. If Norton had won the elections, what was to prevent his government, largely the product of ethnic African Guyanese, from, like the previous coalition administration, doing anythingitwishedasthePPP opposition stood helpless. The people must always keep their power dry, but evenifwetaketheposition,

(Continuedonpage05)

A majority ethnically votingpartywillproducean ethnic dictatorship and as in Guyana, to stay in government a minority ethnic party will have the incentive to coerce others intoitsranks. Theonlyway to achieve democratic governance is firstly to accept that a political ethnic problemexistsandsecondly to put in place adequate constitutional/legal arrangementstofacilitatethe necessary inclusion Instead,theleadershipofthe PPP has taken the position that the existing winnertakes-all structure is appropriate and that it is the people that must change or joinitsranks.

Guyana opposition should accept the outcome and move on

D

EARE

DITOR

, Your media is reporting that the main opposition is calling for forensic audit or rerunofelections.

Theelectioncommission (GECOM) Chair correctly responded that the request must be pursued through an election petition. GECOM cannot adjudicate on certain matters that have to do with the constitution or those

relatingtounfairadvantages. The opposition had to have known it was heading for a resounding defeat as polls clearly found that the PPP waswayahead.

Election is a ‘one shot’ opportunity. Candidates have (had) to make the best of the opportunity If there are (were) constitutional or legal issues on an election, thesehave(had)tobesorted

managementcannotbeweakortimid.Guyaneseareright to demand that their resources work for them, not merely forinternationalcorporations.Astronger,moretransparent approachtooilgovernanceisnotoptionalitisessential.

PresidentAli’s second term is also his final one under the Constitution. This reality gives him both the freedom andtheburdentoactwithboldness.Henolongerhasthe distractionofseekingreelection.Hislegacywillbedefined bywhatheaccomplishesnow Thestakesarehigh,butso too is the opportunity He can be remembered as the president who managed oil wealth wisely, who reduced poverty meaningfully, who built an inclusive democracy, and who helped end domestic violence. Or he can be remembered as the president who allowed opportunity to slipaway

This newspaper congratulates PresidentAli on his reelection.Butcongratulationsmustalsobeaccompaniedby caution. Power, unchecked, has a way of disappointing. Ourroleasafreepresswillcontinuetobethatofwatchdog, vigilant, probing, and unafraid to hold both the president and his administration accountable. What all Guyanese want, regardless of political stripe, is for PresidentAli to succeed. His success will mean better lives for citizens, a stronger democracy, and a more hopeful future. To succeed, he must govern inclusively, with humility, and withcourage.Hemustworkwithoppositionparties,civil society,andtheprivatesector HemustputGuyanafirst.

out before the election. One cannot run a race and after losing,thenrequestare-run. APNU has been decimated but not at the hands of the incumbent; a new political party or movement led by a newcomer to politics ‘mashed’itup.

Therequestforannulling theelectionisatravestyand a blatant disregard of

electoral principles (accepting defeat and conceding by calling and congratulatingthewinneras

done in Jamaic

constitution, and ROPA

C

irregularitiesandanunequal playing field, among other factors, are to be addressed by a court, not GECOM as that body is not empowered to address those matters. Constitutional reforms, as advised by all foreign observers, may be in order, but these have to come after the formation of the government and parliament. They are political and judicial, not GECOM, matters.

The 2025 election result (albeitalowturnout)wasnot a narrow victory as in 2020 or 2015 or 2011 that could possibly justify a court challenge It was a convincingwin;itwas(is)a

huge victory in which the incumbentwonbysome6% or 4 seats beyond the majorityof33seats. Polls conducted by this writer found PPP ahead by two to four seats; it was neverclose.

Any court challenge would simply delay the inevitable – an Ali victory and extend the President’s termbywhatevernumberof daysofthedelayinswearing in the winner Guyana’s election was largely lauded by foreign and domestic observers as well as civil society as one of its most peaceful and best-organized in recent times.As one who studies elections globally and Guyana’s, this was the mostpeacefulsince1964.

The country does not need to be plunged into a period of uncertainty as in 2020 and earlier elections. The public wants this election to be completed quickly Anychallengetothe outcome should come by wayofanelectionpetitionas responded by the Chair of GECOM. And even that is discouragedastherewereno major technical or mechanical or constitutional orlegalissuesontheholding oftheelectionitself.

Yourstruly, Dr.VishnuBisram

Winston Jordan should take

the plank from his eye before criticising others

DEAREDITOR

,

After reading Winston Jordon’s call for PNCR leaderandAPNUchairman, Mr Aubrey Norton, to step downfrombothpositionson theheelsofthe2025General and Regional Elections results which show APNU

party was defeated, particularly in its two strongholds: Districts Four and 10 and the incumbent

People’s Progressive Party/Civic(PPP/C)issetto secure a second term from 2025to2030.Iremembered asachildattendingSt.Paul’s Anglican church in Plaisance that the late Mr. Lloyd Forde once told me “Before criticising others that you must first take the plank out of your own eye, andthenyouwillseeclearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.” This is something I will never forget.

The phrase “take the plankoutofyourowneye”is a biblical teaching from Matthew 7:3-5, which emphasizes the importance of self-examination before criticizingothers.Jesususes themetaphorofalargeplank inone’sowneyetoillustrate that we often focus on the minor faults of others while ignoring our significant issues.Theverseencourages individuals to first address their own flaws before extending judgment to others,highlightingtheneed for humility and honesty in ourinteractions.

As I reflect on this biblical teaching from Matthew7:3-5, Iwouldlike to advise Mr. Winston Jordan to look at himself in the mirror first before criticising Mr Aubrey Norton for the People’s National Congress (PNC)led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU)’s poor performance at the 2025 polls held on September01,2025sincehe (Mr Jordan is a part of the 68-year-old party biggest defeat from not being in

Government nor in opposition that was formed by formed by the late President Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham, OE on October07,1957

Let me be fair, Presidential candidate Mr AubreyNorton,wasgivena basket to fetch water The lowvoterturnoutamongthe APNUsupportersmostlythe youths was largely because of how the David Granger Government treated them between2015and2020after fightingandworkinghardto getthePPP/Coutofoffice. What has made it even worstisthatNONEofthose who ate pork and grapes, draw down big and eat fat d u r i n g G r a n g e r ’s governmentincludingPrime Minister Mr Moses Veerasammy Nagamootoo, Mr Joseph Harmon: Minister of State, Mr Winston Jordan, FORMER Minister of Finance and others did not come out to campaign for the coalition. Disgracefulandselfish!

Irrespective of the way theyfeltaboutMr Norton,if they so love the partnership and so cared about its base, theywouldhavebeenonthe stage. At this point, you can’t blamethesupportersfornot comingoutbecausetheyare fed up, you can’t blame Mr Norton because he was givenabaskettofetchwater In other words, Mr David Granger’s Government did notleaveaniceredcarpetfor Mr Norton or anyone to walkon…Thisissomething thatthePNChavetolookat as they go forward in future elections.

Mr Rickford Burke: Activist and Consultant Rickford Burke who is a prominent figure in the Guyanese community, known for his work as a political activist and consultant also highlighted and shared the same views said, “The quality of politicalrepresentationfrom party leaders and Members

of Parliament over the last five years was substandard a n d

t i n g unsatisfactory While Mr Norton m

accept significantresponsibilityfor this election’s fiasco, he alone cannot be assigned all oftheblame.

Infact,Icanconfidently say that the APNU-AFC Coalition government and President David Granger, of whichWinstonJordonwasa key member, failed the p

’s

catastrophically Thisfailure precipitated the rapid decline in confidence in the party’s leadership and is unquestionably a factor in t h e p r e v a i l i n g circumstances”.

In going forward, I strongly believe that the PNC executive should learn from what the late Dr Cheddi Jagan did when he was in opposition for 28 years under the PNC government form 1964 –1992. They would see that challenging and fighting each other will not result in the PNC winning a general election.

Dr Cheddi Jagan, and his members embrace each other as one political party with one goal which led to thePPPpartyvictoryat1992 electionsandnowunderHis Excellency, Dr Mohamed IrfaanAli,whowillbesworn in as Guyana’s Ninth Executive President followingthe2025polls.

Supporters are the strengthofanypollicalparty andnottobeoverlookedlike what the President Granger didtohissupporterswhilein Government And every timeamemberofapolitical party criticises or leaves the party, it only weakens the leadership and the ability to win an election and this is what Mr Winston Jordan doesn’t know but choose to blame Mr Aubrey Norton for the party’s poor result at the2025pools,whichisnot right.Itisnothim, itis what

(Continuedonpage06)

Some issues that need tackling by Government

DEAREDITOR

Congratulations to the PPP/C on their electionvictory

They have won the right to use their developmentmodelbutnotattheexpenseof excluding the political opposition and Civil Society.ThesearesomeissuesthatIfeelthat theGovernmentneedstotackle:

1.ImprovementinHealth.

2.ImprovementinEducation.

3.BetterPensionforpensioners.

4.Job Creation - including practical help forthoseoutofworkbothfinancialandhelp inlookingforwork.

5.Stabilizedelectricitysystem.

6.Betterqualityandquantityofwaterfor citizens.

7.Georgetown financial crisis resolved byinjectionofmoniesintoCityCoffers. Itisnotacomprehensivelist.

Sincerely

SeanOri

‘Perspective on the 2025 elections’...

Frompage04 which I do not, that the noconfidence motion that brought down that coalition governmentwasaninitiative of PPP, is this or violent confrontation the civilised waytochangegovernment?

The second response raised some interesting questions and the outcome of the elections is not particularly alarming Africans have been there before, for example in 2006, the nature and quality of leadership in the PNC was being called into question and it gave wings to theAlliance For Change (AFC)

This time the schism appears to have led to the latter’s demise, but what is more important is that, to my knowledge, on the previous occasion internal contestants never went public calling upon the Africancommunitytosplit theirvotes!

In passing, we had better note here that there was never an election, particularly since 1992, when Janet Jagan failed to urge upon the PPP’s traditional Indian supporters not to split the votes

Of course, ethnic groups have moral and legal rights to their own political parties, but as noted above, the extreme ethnic loyalty that can result from this persistent kind of barracking prevents the formation of a ‘united public opinion’ without which liberal democracy cannot exist in the absence of appropriate

c o n s t i t u t i o n a l mechanisms

Electionsarebestrigged long before elections day, andthePPPanditallies-the G u y a n a E l e c t i o n s Commission (GECOM) included - have been indulging in all manner of pre-elections skulduggery

But even so, the PPP boast that some red wave will flip Linden and other Africandominated communities has not materialised. Linden is the archetypical African community and the PPP, which has for decades been browbeating Africans to drive them into its ranks, only received about 1,000 more votes than at the last elections.

Indeed, given the regional population size, its increasewasproportionately less in Region 4 which it flooded with migrants from allpartsoftheworld.

More than anything, the results of the elections demonstrate that those of A f r i c a n e t h n i c i t y understand well the ethnic discriminatorytacticsofthe PPP and do not want to be ruledbyit.

Furthermore, whether thePPPandMohamedarein some conspiracy - I believe they are - the fact that the AfricansflockedtoWINisa clear indication thatAfrican political support is not entirely driven by ethnicity but also by leadership direction.

ThatmanyAfricansdid n o t v o t e f o r t h e APNU/WPA coalition cannot be blamed on Norton, up to elections day,formermembersofthe

APNU+AFC leadership was suggestingthatAfricanssplit their votes and so the votes weresplit

Where racism is concerned, Africans must be the most liberal people in the world, but that does notmeanthattheywillnot go tothehilttoprotecttheir interest.

The late South African sociology Professor John Rexarguedthat,unlikemost racial groups, Africans tend to be defensively and not superiority racist. What the 2025Africanvoteshowedis that they view the PPP as a clearandpresentdanger,and sinceWIN was portrayed as the enemy of the PPP, ‘the enemy of my enemy is my friend’.

Therefore, it does not matter how alarming it may appear, very little occurred during the elections to affect the core issues

The problem has never been the existence of ethnic parties but the existence of two large ethnic parties,in a structure of governance that does not facilitate democratic expressions Had he won there is absolutely nothing to have stoppedAubreyNortonfrom behaving even worse than Bharrat Jagdeo - if that is at allpossible!

Regards

Dr HenryJeffrey

Israel flattens Gaza City high-rise, kills 65 across Gaza Strip

(AL-JAZEERA) -

Israel has displaced dozens more Palestinians after destroying another high-rise building in Gaza City, the second such attack in 24 hours.

At least 65 people have been killed in strikes on a school, tents and houses acrossGazaonSunday

The Israeli army has followed through on its threat to bomb the Al-Ruya building in Gaza City, as it continues its campaign of destructionontheremaining civilianinfrastructurethere.

Footage circulating on social media, which was verifiedbyAlJazeera’sfactchecking unit, showed the

strike. Amjad Shawa, the head of the Palestinian NGOsNetwork,spoketoAl Jazeera from Gaza City, a few streets from Israel’s latest strike on a high-rise building sheltering displacedfamilies.

“The situation is scary, there is panic among the people,”hesaidshortlyafter the Al-Ruya Tower was levelled.

The strike followed an earlier attack on the Al JazeeraClubincentralGaza City, the site of another tentedencampment.

“Today, hundreds of families lost their shelters,” Shawa said “Israel [is] aiming to force Palestinians

to the southern areas using these explosions, but everyoneknowsthatthereis no safe place in the south or anyhumanitarianzone.”

Israeli military has issued a warning saying it’s preparing to strike another high-rise residen

ial buildinginGazaCity,theAlRuyabuilding.

Thiscomesafterithitthe 15-storey Soussi Tower yesterday, and the 12-storey Mushtaha Tower on Friday Palestinians living in makeshifttentsaroundthese buildings,whicharesomeof Gaza City’s tallest, have beenwoundedinthestrikes.

The Israeli military claimed, without offering

evidence, that the buildings were used by Hamas. The Palestiniangrouphasdenied theclaim,sayingthearmyis usingitasanexcusetotarget civi

Palestinians run for cover during an Israeli air strike on a high-rise building in Gaza City, September 5, 2025 [Yousef Al Zanoun/AP]

systematically destroying the city’s remaining infrastructure as it moves to seize Gaza’s largest urban centre. It has ordered the Palestinian population to move to a so-called humanitarian zone in the alMawasiarea,inthesouthern city of Khan Younis, which nonetheless continues to comeunderattack.

Meanwhile, Israel’s intense offensive on Gaza City appears to be part of a wider Israeli plan to drive Palestinians out of Gaza, an academic says Tamer Qarmout, associate professor at the Doha Institute of Graduate Studies, toldAl Jazeera that he believed Israel was pursuinga“transferproject” in Gaza “They are not shying away Their political behaviour, statements, conduct on the ground all head in one direction,” he said. “It’s a large transfer of peopleofftheirland.”

He said Israel’s assault onthesoutherncityofRafah hademptieditofpeopleand

turned Gaza’s third largest cityintoabufferzone.

“This city does not exist anymore.Iftheideaistoturn Gaza City into another Rafah, then that’s it. The Gaza Strip becomes almost unlivable.”

The United States has reportedly issued a new ceasefire proposal to the Israelis that would quickly end the war in exchange for the release of all captives held in Gaza. US President DonaldTrumptooktosocial media, warning Hamas to accept.

Twopeoplewereinjured after a drone launched from Yemen hit an airport in southernIsrael.

Israel’s war on Gaza has killed at least 64,368 people andwounded162,776others since October 2023 Thousands more are believed to be under the rubble.

A total of 1,139 people were killed in Israel during the October 7 attacks, and about 200 were taken captive.

Winston Jordan should...

Frompage05

President Granger did. Mr Norton, Leader of the People’s National Congress (PNC) - led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) ran a clean election campaignalthoughtheodds werestackedupagainsthim anddidhisbesttoreturnthe PNC party to office at the recent the2025Generaland Regional Election which is commendable

I believe that the People’s National Congress

(PNC) - led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) will Rise Again, Standing FirmasweJourneytowarda Stronger, Fairer Guyana WillEmergeStrongerasthe Struggle for Democracy Continues Like the Oak Tree, Rooted, Unbroken, andRisingAgainoncethere is unity and not division among the leader, membersandsupportersof theparty

Yourfaithfully.

RayvonneP.Bourne

Amanza promises constructive engagement in Parliament

…party says one seat is small in number, but mighty in meaning

Withtheconfirmationof the new government by the G u y a n a E l e c t i o n s Commission (GECOM), the Forward Guyana Movement (FGM), a recently formed politicalparty,ledbyformer parliamentarian Amanza Walton-Desir, has secured a seatinthenationalassembly Speaking to Kaieteur News on Sunday, WaltonDesir expressed gratitude to supporters, outlining the party’s commitment to transformative politics and accountability at the highest level. “Our agenda is clear:

to give voice to the people who entrusted us with their vote – and indeed, for all Guyanese,” she said. “We will use our presence in parliament to hold the government accountable, to stand up for fairness and dignity, and to keep real change at the center of national decision-making The issues that matter most toordinaryGuyanesewillbe theissuesthatwebringtothe floor.”

Walton-Desir said the F G M w i l l e n g a g e c o n s t r u c t i v e l y i n parliamentary affairs, guided by principles and public interest rather than partisanship.

“Wherethereiscommon ground that benefits the nation,wewillnothesitateto support it. Where there are concerns,wewillraisethem fearlessly and responsibly,” shestated.

“Our commitment is not to partisanship but to the peoplewhoputtheirtrustin us.”

Reflectingonherparty’s journey,Walton-Desircalled the achievement “an honour beyond words,” noting the significance of winning a seat in just under three months since the party’s formation.

“We did not have the money, machinery, or resources of the larger parties,butwhatwehadwas the trust and goodwill of ordinary Guyanese,” she said.“Thisseatinparliament is not ours alone, it belongs to every citizen who welcomed us into their homes and communities, who believed that our countrydeservesbetter.”

D e s c r i b i n g t h e parliamentary seat as a “symbol of courage and hope, ” Walton-Desir emphasised that her party will bring out a change in parliamentary decision When asked who would occupy the party’s seat in parliament, Walton-Desir statedthattheleadershipwill meet to make a final decision.

The commission convened on Saturday and declared PPP/C the winner of the September 1 general and regional elections, with Dr Irfaan Ali re-elected to serveasecondterm.

PPP/C secured 36 seats in the National Assembly, while We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) led by

Azruddin Mohamed gained 16 seats. The A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) ledbyAubreyNortongained 12 seats, and Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) ledbyAmanzaWalton-Desir gotoneseat.

Overall, the incumbent was able to secure 242,000 votes The new main opposition party WIN got over 109,000 votes, while APNU received 77,988 votes while FGM got about 4,300votes.

Meanwhile, in a press statement the political movement which was formed two months before the elections said one seat may look small in number, but it is mighty in meaning.

“Itrepresentsthecourageof every Guyanese who believedournationdeserves better, and who cast their vote for real change,” the partysaid.

“The change we seek is not an event nor a single moment in time, it is a process, sometimes coming ingiantleaps,othertimesin small but crucial steps. For F o r w a r d G u y a n a Movement, this seat is one such step. The wheel is turning,andtogether,weare moving forward,” the statementread.

“Our movement was birthed on July 1, 2025. Fromtheverybeginning,our coalition of the willing, The People’s Movement, VPAC, and Forward Guyana Movement, understood that if we wanted to see change, we had to be that change ourselves Together, over roads and rivers, from city streets to hinterland trails, we carried one message: Real Change can’t wait

Enoughofyouagreed.”

The party thanked the “AlmightyGod’,whoitsaid orders the steps of a people whentheydaretohope.“We give thanks to the men and womenacrossGuyana,from our coastlands to our villages, from the urban centers to the farthest hinterland,whoopenedtheir hearts to us, welcomed us into their communities, and chosetowalkwithus.Thisis not about triumph or gloating. It is about service. It is about a new dawn in which every Guyanese can know that their voice matters. With this one seat, we will carry the weight of every dream for fairness, dignity,andopportunity.”

The party also thanked their voters, candidates, volunteers, supporters, and friends.

“Thank you. Thank you for being part of something larger than all of us, something aspirational, something better To the press,socialmediaactivists, and our brothers and sisters across the diaspora: thank you. You gave life to our campaign, strength to our message,andvisibilitytoour cause.Wewillcalluponyou again as the journey continues. Forward Guyana Movement’sjourneyhasjust begun.Fromthisfoundation, we will continue to fight for jobs, justice, safety, and unity We will remain faithful, we will remain hopeful, and we will remain committed to the Real Change our people deserve. Change has come. This is only the first step. Let us walktogether,forthebestof Guyana is yet to come,” the statementconcluded.

Why APNU was decimated by WIN

The news out of Region 10 is not merely a tremor; it isanearthquake.Ameretwo years ago,APartnership for National Unity (APNU) sat fat and content, winning fourteen of sixteen seats in theLindenmunicipality The party was basking in what it thoughtwasanimpregnable fortress. Today, the fortress lies breached, its walls broken down not by the governingPPP,butbyanew and untested force We Invest in Nationhood, knownsimplyasWIN.

The APNU leadership hasofferedexplanations,but explanations, like alibis, oftentellyoumoreaboutthe speaker than about the crime. We are told that a “vacuum” developed, and WIN slipped neatly into it. But one must ask, with Region 10 still under APNU’shandatthelevelof the Regional Democratic Council, where was this vacuum supposed to be? If therewasanemptyspace,it was not geographic; it was moral, political, and spiritual. And it was not created by WIN. It was createdbyAPNUitself.

We are told, too, that WIN prospered because money was lathered in the Region. That may sound convincinginarumshopbut does not withstand the faintestofscrutiny Ifmoney buys votes, then why did thoselatheredbillsnotwash away PPPC strongholds? Why did WIN’s advance falter in PPPC strongholds while surging in Linden and

Region 10? The answer is thatmoneymaylubricatethe machinery of politics, but it cannot stir a disillusioned heart.

The truth is plainer and harder than the excuses APNUwasdefeatedbecause itssupportersgrewwearyof it. Factionalism is an ugly word, but uglier still is the spectacle of a party eating itself alive. The removal of David Granger was not

a declarationofwarwithinthe family. Granger, for all his faults, had pulled the PNCR back from the brink after its catastrophiclossin2006.He stitched together a coalition that toppled the PPPC in 2015. Yet within his own party, the very hands that once lifted him turned againsthim.

The consequences were fatal. By the time the 2025 elections came, APNU had splintered.Itsleaderslooked notoutwardtothepeoplebut inward at each other, measuring spoils, plotting ousters, testing daggers Granger warned against factionalism. But the new leadership intoxicated with seizing the party did not address the factionalism which Granger warned against A party in that condition cannot win an election;itcannotevenfight one properly What the electoratesawinAPNUwas not a coalition of parties. What they saw was the PNCR being splintered and besieged by quarrels. And

people, being sensible, turnedaway

IfAPNUcollapsedunder the weight of its own divisions, WIN rose on the buoyancy of something different:amovementofthe underclass. WIN was not builtinoffices,butinstreets, in poor villages where voices rise louder than radios.Itwasnotdesignedto impress investors; it was designed to speak to the working man and woman who felt unseen, unheard, andperpetuallycheated.

APNU’s natural base found in WIN what they no longer found in their old party: an energy that was theirs, unpolished, rough, but alive. WIN was not a machine;itwasacrowd,and crowds are hard to resist. Even Bharrat Jagdeo, never amantogiveanopponentan inch without clawing back two, admitted that WIN made inroads into PPPC’s support But there, the fortress held. The PPPC has always been more disciplined in protecting its base, more vigilant against the little cracks that let the water in. WIN knocked at those doors but found them barred.

In Region 10, however, the doors had been left swinging on their hinges.

APNU had assumed p e r m a n e n c e A n d permanence in politics is always the beginning of impermanence.Whatmakes WIN’s rise striking is not merelyitselectoralshowing, butitsspirit.Itisnotsuitedto

DEM BOYS SEH

Tek yuh licks and walk away

Dem boys seh is not everything you must ask fuhtwice.Sometimeswhen youholler“gimmemore,”is lash yuh does get Ask RabbiWashington. De man appeal he sentence hoping de judges gon seh, “Alright boss, tek lil less time.” Instead, de judges turn round and double de dose. Fifteenyearsturnintomore. Instead of freedom, was more iron gate and cockroachcompany Well, fast forward to 2025 and de APNU decide dem gon try de same trick. Dem seh, “We can’t lose RegionFour Wehadallwe bigbrainsandallwepolling agents watching.” So dem

askfuharecount.Demboys seh recount does sound sweet till yuh see de numbers.Whendeboxopen and de figures call out, APNU bawl louder than a man who miss he bus in de rain.Insteadofvotesadding up, de thing subtract. De more dem count, de less dem get. Dem lose seven votes.

Islikeorderingasecond plateofcook-upandfinding out is just peas left back in de pot. Dem boys seh de recount didn’t tek away from nobody else just fromdem.Waslikedecake jump off de table and land straightpondemface. Now dem supporters dehwatchingpuzzled.Dem

parliamentarypolitics;itisa partyofthemarginalisedand neglected. And therein lies its strength and its danger AZMO, its leader, would be mistakentomeasuresuccess in seats in the National Assembly WIN’sstrengthis in its ability to bring parliamenttothepeople,not the people to parliament. ParliamentwillneuterWIN. One does not need to romanticize the underclass to recognize its power It is theunderclassthatbuildsthe roads, provide the labour of

construction, mines the ore, harveststhecrops,drivesthe minibuses and sells on the pavements.Ithasnowfound its voice and discovered its strengthinanewmovement.

seh, “But we had man in everystation.Howcomewe ask fuh recount and we end up worse off?” Dem boys seh is simple: when yuh think yuh smart and try to play big brain games, sometimesdeuniversedoes give yuh a reminder—yuh ain’t smarter than arithmetic.

Sodemoralofdestory: don’t always holler “check it again.” Sometimes better to tek yuh licks and walk away Rabbi Washington learn dat in de courtroom. APNU learn dat in de recount.And dem boys seh ifyuhdon’tlearnfromother peoplemistake,decakegon alwaysfindyuhface. Talkhalf.Leffhalf.

And so APNU was decimated,notbyfraud,nor by cash, nor by a vacuum filled, but by its own decay and by the rise of a movement that spoke in a languagethe‘scrapes’could understand.Itis fashionable in politics to look for complicated answers, but sometimes the simplest one is best: the poor and marginalized turn away from leaders who no longer inspire them and they find theirvoiceinWIN.

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

Elections 2025: Lesson Two Low voter turnout

If a rich man holds an open house, and invites everyone-from friend to stranger-toenterthegatesand partake of the banquet table, andtheyshaketheirheadsin rejectionwhatdoesthatsay? Whatdoesitsaywhenthose holding their noses and turning their faces from that tempting banquet are so famished that a good meal wouldbeagodsend?

Afteralltherichpromises and invitations, after the knownconditionsofneedthat bedevil so many Guyanese, whattomakeofthelowvoter turnout in the elections of 2025? Thereisonepositive: someGuyanesecameoutand voted, which indicates that there is some interest in who governsGuyanaandhowitis governed Lowvoterturnoutnotfor Guyanese consider a side event, such as local government, but for the big dance party, ie, national elections. In 2020, it was 70%. The first guestimates for2025hoveredbetween60

to 65%. With no census figures available, then GECOM’s list is what’s left for a denominator Thus, about 58% voter turnout could be confirmed when this is over At 58% voter turnout, this means that two outoffiveeligibleGuyanese voters stayed away from last Monday’spolls Inacricket match, a score of around 58 isn’t devastating, but it isn’t impressive, either Because therewassomuchleftoffthe scoreboard. Thisisoneway that I am reading the low voterturnout.

Another way, and I think thatthisisundeniable,isthat the voters who stayed away gave the government and oppositionpartiesthebackof their hands. ‘I don’t have time for what you are selling.’ And‘whateveritis, Iamnotinterested.’ Ittakes alottopushpeopleoverthe edge,gooddealandplentyof promises and all. What makes this unfathomable, even more troubling, is an appreciation of where

Guyana is, and all that Guyanahasandoffersforthe future.

Thepresentisgloomyfor manyGuyanese,andyetwhat they said to the politicians fromlefttorightwasgetlost At least that is how I am interpreting the low voter turnoutfromlastweek.

Nopressureofsqueezing time from work, battling traffic, and hustling to the place of polling There was the luxury of a national holiday,andalltwelvehours of it waiting to welcome a barrageofvoters. Guyanese stillshruggedtheirshoulders disdainfully, and refused to be drawn into the web of a pollingstation.

Nowthereisanotherway to interpret the low voter turnout Caution:friendsand countryfolkinthePPParenot going to like the next few sentences. I will try to be gentle,evenbland. Fact:the PPP captured quite a percentage of those who actuallyvoted.

Congrats! Now for the

downside, the upsetting news First, total the votes won by all the opposition parties Next,tothattotaladd thevotersthatstayedaway Conclusion:aswellasthe PPP may think that it did, there is no denying the fact that it is a minority government, numerically speaking. That is, all the opposition voted against it, andthatlowvoterturnoutof approx. 58% stands as an unsparingreferendumonthe PPP Government’s and its leadership performance in the years 2020-2025. The same goes for confidence in oppositionparties.

Moreover,thePPPhadall themoney,allthecontrol,all theopportunities,andallthat it could have gained in 2025 wasanother9,000votesover

its 2020 elections number of 233,336 Check the arithmetic,butthattranslates to 1800 additional votes per year After five record budgets and well over $4 trillion Guyana dollars in its hands, this has to be a referendum on all the good thatthegovernmentsaidthat itdid.

Withoutgoingtooheavy, itisconfirmation,Iwouldsay, ofwhatIhavebeentellingthe government There is much more that needs to be done, of which cost-of-living has tobeapriority Inthespirit of a new era, I refrain from reiterating what has been bad. I think that it was the honorable Vice President, Dr Jagdeo,whosaidthatthe l o w t u r n o u t w a s ‘concerning, bears some

lookinginto…’

When so many voters stayed away, it means that they were more than indifferent, more than distrustful, and more than disengaged. It means that they didn’t feel incentivized enoughnorinspiredenough. They had had enough Political credibility hit bottom One must wonder that if WIN’s Mohamed was not part of the electoral picture, where that would haveleftvoterturnout. Just b e l o w 5 0 % l o o k s reasonable.

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

U.S., EU congratulate Pres. Ali on re-lection

United States Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot has congratulated President IrfaanAlionhisre-election

InastatementpostedontheUSEmbassy’s facebook page, the ambassador said: “The United States looks forward to continuing to work with the Government of Guyana to further strengthen the bilateral ties between our two countries Our commitment to Guyana’scontinuedgrowthanddevelopment remainsstrongandunwavering”Sheadded: “WecommendtheOrganizationofAmerican States (OAS) and other international observers for their impartial monitoring and thorough analysis, which have been instrumental in promoting transparency and accountabilityinthiselection”

AlsocongratulatingPresidentAliwasthe European Union The EU extended congratulations to Ali, and the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPPC) on their successful re-election following the September1,2025elections.“TheEuropean Union also commends the Guyanese electorate and the Guyana Elections Commission(GECOM)forensuringthatthe elections were conducted in a calm and peaceful manner, reaffirming Guyana’s steadfast commitment to the democratic process. We concur with the assessments made by both international and local observer missions that emphasized the peacefulnatureoftheseelections.”

The European Union said it greatly values its long-standing and multifaceted partnershipwithGuyana,arelationshipbuilt on the shared principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law Looking ahead, we are excited to further strengthen thesebonds.“Ourcollaborationisdrivenby a shared ambition to promote sustainable developmentandaddressingclimatechange. Additionally, we are committed to fostering inclusive economic growth a

d diversification through our Global Gateway Initiative and continuing our efforts to

bolster democratic institutions and promote goodgovernance.

TheEuropeanUnionremainsacommitted partnertoGuyana,andtogether,wewillstrive to build a future that is more prosperous, sustainable,andsecureforall”

Fortheirpart,theGuyanaAgriculturaland General Workers Union (GAWU) in congratulatingPresidentAlisaidthatwiththe PPP/C securing increased electoral support andalargerparliamentarymandateisaclear testament to the confidence and trust the Guyanesepeoplehaveplacedinhisleadership andvisionforourcountry

GAWU also warmly congratulates the people of Guyana for again exercising their democraticfranchiseinaspiritofpeaceand responsibility Weareparticularlyproudthat the electoral season and Election Day itself were punctuated by calm and order, demonstratingournation’sgrowingmaturity in safeguarding and upholding democracy

“We commend the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) for ensuring an efficient electoral machinery that facilitated thesmoothconductoftheseimportantpolls, thereby strengthening public confidence in theelectoralprocess.

Asaproudrepresentativeoftheworkers of Guyana, GAWU emphasises its strong desiretocontinueworkingalongsidethenew Government to advance national development, promote pro-people and proworker initiatives, and uplift the masses of our country We believe that under the leadership of President Ali, supported by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, Prime Minister, and the leadership of the PPP/C, Guyana is poised to achieve even greater heights of progress, unity, and prosperity Once again, we extend our warmest congratulations to President Ali and the PPP/C on their resounding victory at the polls, and we look forward to a future of continuedcollaborationintheserviceofthe workingpeopleandallGuyanese.”

PRES. ALI SWORN-IN FOR 2nd TERM

President Irfaan Ali took the oath of office as the 9th Executive President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana

By Renay Sambach

Irfaan Ali was on Sunday

morning sworn in for a second term promising to be a president for all Guyanese, even as he vowed to eradicate poverty, tackle corruption and go aftersocialmediamischiefmakers whospreadmisinformation.

Held at the State House in Georgetown, the swearing-in ceremony was attended by hundreds of supporters of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C). Notably unlike his first term,PresidentAlididnotswearin hisprimeministerBrigadier(ret’d) Mark Phillips and Vice President,

BharratJagdeoyesterday

Heindicatedthatinthecoming days he will roll out his cabinet, which could include those who served in the last cabinet or new faces. The president said these persons will be chosen for their competence,character,andfidelity to the people of Guyana. “I will alsoannounceawiderangeofother keyappointmentsacrossthepublic sector to ensure that the entire systemisledbypeoplecommitted to delivering effective service to theGuyanesepeople,”hesaid.

In his address after taking the oathofoffice,AliassuredGuyanese that he will serve all Guyanese for the 2025 to 2030 period Ali

underscored that the achievements of the PPP’s agenda over the next fiveyearswillrequirebolddecisionmaking, critical thinking, relentless effort, and a high degree of adaptability and agility to survive and prosper in an increasingly complexglobalenvironment

NATIONALCRUSADE AGAINSTPOVERTY

President Ali also underscored that Guyana, a nation blessed with oil, gold, bauxite, and other resources, should not be poor in living standards. For his second term, Ali said that his administration will launch a national crusade against poverty “Notjustthevisiblepovertyinour

says will be President for all Guyanese vows crackdown on social media mischief makers to tackle corruption in both public, private sectors

streets, but the structural roots and hidden burdens that keep families fromrising.Wewillfightit,reduce it, and ultimately eradicate it,”

President Ali said. According to Ali, the key to delivering on these commitments lies in building a highly efficient, service-oriented public service. He spoke about refashioning a public service that delivers more online services and one that places the citizen at the centre of every action. He also reiteratedhispromisetodismantle bottlenecks that frustrate citizens andmodernisethesystems.

ANTI-CORRUPTION

Notably, he also outlined how corruption undermines the

efficiency, fairness, and credibility ofpublicservice.

“Thatiswhywewillstrengthen our anti-corruption efforts by establishing a dedicated AntiCorruption Unit, tasked with excising this cancer from our institutions and holding public officials to the highest standards of integrity Every official will be required to account for their personal assets, and anyone who cannotdosowillfacethefullforce of the law We will pursue both the corrupted and the corrupters, leaving no room for impunity,” he announced

Further,PresidentAlialso

Continued on page 15

…as village hosts Amerindian heritage celebrations celebr MohameddonatesschoolsuppliestoLaluni

PRES.ALISWORN-INFOR...

Frompage11

notedthathisadministrationdoesnothavea system of lobbying, cautioning that any personpresentingthemselvesaslobbyistsor peddlingaccesstoanyoneingovernmentis misrepresenting themselves and misleading others He disclosed that a special mechanism will be set up to deal with such individuals.

“At the same time, we recognise and respect the essential watchdog role of the media,andwewillensuregreatersharingof information by instituting mechanisms in every ministry and department that provide thefactsinatimelyway,”Alifurthernoted.

President Ali noted that his administration will hold those tasked with the dissemination of information accountablefortheiractions.“Theymustbe heldaccountable,”hesaid.Further,henoted thatGuyanacanbecomearisingfrontier He touted Guyana as a land of prosperity, justice, dignity, and hope for every single citizen.

“The measure of this mandate will be simple,howfartheleastservedcanrise,and how widely opportunity is shared. Let no child doubt it in One Guyana, your name, your village, your faith, your family’s history will never limit your horizon. The future is yours to claim. Seize it and soar,” Alisaid.

INVESTINPEOPLE

He assured that his government will invest in people and expand scholarships, skills,andpartnershipwiththeUniversityof Guyana (UG) and regional institutions. Ali disclosedthatwithinthenextsixweeks,his administration will establish 200 medical and engineering seats in Regions Two, Three, Six, and Nine. This, he said, will make it possible for persons to equip themselveswithskillsintheseareaswithout havingtoleavetheirhomesorregions. “These skills are in high demand, and

we’re going to ensure that Regions 9, 2, 3, and 6, in six weeks, will be in a position to deliver education in every field of the College of Medicine and the University of Guyana,FacultyofEngineering,”hestated.

DEEPENECONOMICTIES

Further, on regional and international partnerships, Ali said his government will continue to deepen economic ties with neighbouring countries through expanded trade,investment,andknowledgeexchange. HealsounderscoredGuyana’scommitment to advancing the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Single Market and Economy, withfullfreemovement,mutualrecognition ofskillsandqualifications.

“We will champion regional energy security and competitiveness, leveraging Guyana’s resources and know-how, partneringwithourneighbourstolowercost, expand manufacturing and build resilient, cleaner energy systems that power jobs and industryacrosstheCaribbean,”headded.

Alisaidtoothatfoodsecurityeffortswill alsobeacceleratedtocuttheregion’simport billandensureCaribbeantablesaresupplied by Caribbean farms. He outlined plans to modernise agriculture and agro-processing, while opening new shipping and air links. Additionally, President Ali reaffirmed that his government will continue to defend Guyana’ssovereigntywithquietconfidence inthelaw

“Weseekpeacewithallourneighbours,” Alisaid.Headdedthathisadministrationis committed to engaging international partners in ways that safeguard Guyana’s sovereignty and advance the country’s interests.

“Wewillstrengthencooperationwhereit bringstangiblebenefitstoourpeople,while ensuring that our resources and opportunities are managed to secure prosperity for this and future generations,” hestated.

Leader of the WIN Party, Azruddin Mohamed onSaturdayparticipatedin Heritage Day celebrations in the village of Laluni during which he also donated school supplies to children.

Laluni is a picturesque

ica (Region4),situatedbehind Kuru-Kururu about 20 km from the Linden-Soesdyke Highway

In a press release Mohamedsaidthesupplies willensurethatstudentsof Laluni are better equipped forthenewacademicyear, whichcommencestoday

According to the press release,theWINleadersaid that the initiative was warmly welcomed by residents,whoexpressedtheir appreciationforhisthoughtful gestureatsuchacriticaltime In addition, to the supplies, Mohamedtooktimetointeract with the children and their families, listening to their stories and sharing in their cultural expressions, the releaseadded

Accordingtotherelease, Mohamed’s presence underscored the importance ofcelebratingheritagewhile also addressing the immediate needs of the community “Mr Mohamed has long demonstrated a commitment to supporting

indigenous communities across the country His involvement goes beyond one-time gestures, as he has consistently partnered with villages to promote cultural preservation, education, and community development Today’s event was another reflection of his care and respectforthetraditionsand well-being of the people,” thereleasesaid.

Accordingtotherelease, t h e H e r i t a g e D a y celebrations provided a space for the people of Laluni and surrounding communities to showcase their culture, traditions, and talents and Mohamed’s

participation signaled not justsponsorshipbutgenuine interest in uplifting the lives of those he engaged with, reinforcing his belief in the value of inclusivity and sharedprogress.

“This is not the first heritage celebration Mr Mohamedhassupported,his continued presence at these events highlights his vision offosteringunity,preserving culture, and providing tangible support to communities.Forthepeople of Laluni, his gesture was bothacelebrationofheritage and a reminder that their culture and future matter,” thereleaseended.

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“We must kill this now”

…President on warpath to end domestic

With gender-based violence spiralling out of control here, President Irfaan Ali on Sunday vowed to “kill” the scourge.

A number of women have been killed by their male partners in recent years. Only recently, a man executed his estranged wife. In his address after taking the oath of office on Sunday President Ali said that his government will be empowering women, youth and the elderly. “And we will intensify our fight against domestic violence - we must kill this now,” President Ali said.

For women, there will be the removal of taxes on personal health and hygiene products, in addition there will be the construction of both day and night care centers to support the working mothers. “We will provide more scholarships and create greater employment opportunities, and we will intensify our fight against domestic violence we must kill this now.

President Irfaan Ali

For our elderly, we will raise pensions, send mobile health units into rural and hinterland communities, employ telemedicine and virtual clinics, and expand residential care facilities,” he said.

The youths will be benefitting from expanded access to skills training, free education at every level, affordable housing and investments in new sports facilities. These include world-class indoor stadium, “a high-performance conditioning centre, and a cycling velodrome to produce champions for the world.”

From January to late August 13, women lost their lives in domestic violent encounters. In January, 16-year-old Janelly David was beaten to death and left in a hammock in Region 1 by her partner Eon Moore. Also in the same month, 34-year-old Bibi Fazila Ally (34) was killed by her expartner Bidraj Ganesh. Her body was left in a pool of blood and was discovered by her eight-year-old son.

In February, 27-year-old, Kenesha Vaughn was shot 12 times by her husband Marlan Da Silva during an argument, while he was allegedly intoxicated at their Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara. Also, in the same month Shameeza Mohamed was brutally beaten by her son-in-law Parsuram Arjune subsequently succumbing to her injuries.

The month of April saw five women losing their lives: Mezona Ronaldo was set on fire by her partner Kevin Cadogan and subsequently

violence

succumbed to her injuries. Reports from family members revealed that he had cut her hair off a few weeks before.

Also, in April Maline La Cruz, her sister Sueann La Cruz and her mother, Waveney La Cruz lost their lives at the hands of her expartner Parmanand Ramdehol, when he shot them at their Waiakabra Village, Soesdyke – Linden Highway. In the same month, 30- year-old Marissa Beete was shot by her ex-boyfriend Ghalee Khan who was a convicted drug trafficker. In July, Jenel Pollydore (26) was shot dead at a wedding by the father of her child.

In August, Teekadai Solomon was shot at least 10 times by her husband Alroy Solomon who then turned the weapon on himself ending his life. He also shot their son during the ordeal. In the same month, 45-year-old Bibi Shazida Hanif was stabbed to death by her ex-husband Martin True.

CDB and RevUP Caribbean power next wave of Caribbean entrepreneurs with incubation programme

The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB, the Bank) and RevUP Caribbean Limited have launched Phase II of the RevUP Caribbean Incubation Programme, a two-year initiative aimed at creating jobs, scaling startups, and strengthening innovation across the region.

Building on the success of Phase I, this next chapter will support at least 60 early-stage companies through business training, mentorship, technology support, and improved access to financing, the CDB said in a press release.

“The Bank is proud to collaborate with RevUP to unlock Caribbean entrepreneurial potential,” said Lisa Harding, Division Chief, Private Sector, CDB.

“We envision a future with stronger Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs), aligned with CDB’s commitment to fostering private sector growth, driving innovation, building climate resilience, and ensuring equitable access to financing.”

Phase II introduces partnerships with the Caribbean Climate-Smart Accelerator (CCSA) and the Caribbean Export Development Agency. These collaborations will aid in producing climate-smart and export-oriented firms. While partnerships with European incubators and accelerators under the EU-LAC In-

novation Cooperation Initiative will also expand the Caribbean startups’ global networks. The RevUP Caribbean programme will continue to leverage FirstAngels Caribbean and other investor networks, helping entrepreneurs connect with angel investors, commercial banks, and venture capital firms.

Key features of Phase II are:

Startup Pipeline: Engaging high-potential, women-led, and climate-smart ventures.

Capacity Building: Tai-

lored training to improve investment readiness and operational efficiency.

Mentorship: Guidance from regional and international coaches.

Finance Access: Pitch opportunities to unlock growth capital.

“Phase II represents a strategic expansion of our mission to empower Caribbean entrepreneurs,” said Harry “Tomi” Davies, Chairman of RevUP Caribbean Limited.

“With partners like CDB,

the Development Bank of Jamaica, the Caribbean Climate Smart Accelerator, and Caribbean Export, we are driving sustainable and inclusive growth.”

With strong governance and global partnerships, Phase II of the RevUP Caribbean Incubation Programme is set to equip Caribbean entrepreneurs with the tools, capital, and networks to build resilient, high-growth businesses that create jobs and transform regional economies.

PAHO launches award to recognise Caribbean leadership in the fight against superbugs

Bridgetown, Barbados, 5 September 2025 (PAHO/ WHO) — The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has launched the Suzan McLennon-Miguel Caribbean Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Leadership Award, a new regional honor recognizing exceptional leadership in the fight against antimicrobial resistance—a growing global health threat often referred to as the “silent pandemic.”

The award celebrates the legacy of Dr. Suzan McLennon-Miguel, a Jamaican veterinarian whose threedecades career spanned vet-

erinary public health, disaster response, food safety, and AMR advocacy.

Affectionately known as “Doc Sue,” she was a passionate champion of the One Health approach, which unites human, animal, and environmental health to tackle complex health challenges like AMR. PAHO welcomes the nominations of individuals or organizations from across the Caribbean who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to addressing AMR.

Eligible nominees may include those who have led impactful community-based

AMR initiatives; contributed to education, policy, or public health solutions; or advanced research or innovation using a One Health lens. Self-nominations are encouraged. Nominations are open until 30 September 2025, and the winner will be announced on 18 November 2025, during World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week. Dr. McLennon-Miguel passed away in July 2023 after a battle with cancer, but her influence continues to shape public health in the Caribbean. She led animal health responses (Continued on page 17)

Berbice man homeless after fire destroys home

destroyed a two-story home at Lot 13, Plantation Ross, West Coast Berbice,leaving onemanhomeless.

Accordingtoreports,the Guyana F

S

e received the distress call around14:02hrs.Firetender WT#121andateamfromthe Onverwagt Fire Station, under the command of Station Leader D. Joseph, werepromptlydispatchedto thescene.

The structure, a wooden and concrete building, was measuredeightmetresbysix metresontheupperfloorand eight metres by four metres on the ground floor Despite efforts by the firefighting crew, the building was engulfed in flames and completelydestroyed.

The homeowner, Leon Fraser, 44, was the sole occupant at the time of the fire. He was not injured, but

hasbeenleftwithoutshelter Fire officials have launched an investigation into the origin and cause of theblaze.

PAHO launches award torecogniseCaribbean...

Frompage16 during the 2021 volcanic eruption in St. Vincent and served as a food safety specialist at the Caribbean Agricultural Health and Food Safety Agency (CAHFSA) in Suriname Herimpactextendedbeyond science and policy. In Jamaica, she created “Doc S u e ’ s H a p p y Rooms”—colorfulspacesin hospitals where sick children could play, learn, anddream.“It’smorethana playroom,” she said. “It’s a place where children can start dreaming of what they wanttobeinthefuture.”The awardee will be invited to PAHO’s Headquarters in Washington, D C for meetings with regional experts, participation in strategic AMR discussions, and the opportunity to showcase their work. They will also receive a commemorativeplaque.

“AMR threatens lives across the Caribbean, from routine infections to critical treatmentslikecancercare,” said Pilar Ramon-Pardo, Chief, Antimicrobial Resistance Special Program atPAHO.

“This award celebrates Dr. McLennon-Miguel’s legacy by recognizing leaders who are building a healthierfuture.”

A panel of experts from

PAHO and international partners will select the winner based on impact, innovation, collaboration, a n d s u s t a i n a b l e contributions to AMR efforts.

WhyAMRmatters Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites stop responding to the medicines used to treat them.

This makes common infections harder and sometimes impossible to cure.I n the Caribbean, AMR threatens everything from routine infections to surgeries and cancer care, placing decades of public health progress at risk PAHO is stepping up its efforts to combat AMR in t h e C a r i b b e a n b y strengthening surveillance, e

antibiotics, and fostering OneHealthpartnerships.

These efforts are supported by the UK Government’s Fleming Fund and new South-South cooperation initiatives. By honoring leaders like Dr McLennon-Miguel, this award aims to inspire bold actiontocurbsuperbugsand safeguard the region’s health.

FAO Food Price Index virtually unchanged in August

...new forecasts point to growth in global cereal output, utilization, stocks and trade

Thebenchmarkofworld foodcommodityprices

remained largely unchangedinAugust,asincreases in meat, sugar and vegetable oil pricesoffsetdeclinesincerealand dairy quotations, according to the new report released by the Food and Agriculture Organization of theUnitedNations(FAO)Friday

The FAO Food Price Index, which tracks monthly changes in the international prices of a set of g l o b a l l y - t r a d e d f o o d commodities, averaged 130 1 points in August, marginally up from the revised July level of 130 0 points and 6 9 percent higherthanayearearlier

The FAO Vegetable Oil Price Index increased by 1.4 percent in August from July, reaching its highest level in over three years. Palm, sunflower and rapeseed oil quotations all increased, partly influenced by Indonesia’s intention to further raise its biodiesel blending mandate next year, while world soy oil prices edged lower amid prospects of ample global soybean supplies in

themarketingyearahead.

The FAO Cereal Price Index declinedby0.8percentfromJuly International wheat prices dropped,drivenbylargerharvests in the European Union and the Russian Federation, while world maize prices rose, due partly to increaseddemandforfeeduseand ethanol production in the United States of America. The FAO All Rice Price Index eased, weighed downbylowerIndicapricesamid continued fierce competition amongexporters.

The FAO Meat Price Index increasedby0.6percentinAugust, reaching a new all-time high, led by rising international bovine meat prices, underpinned by strongdemandintheUnitedStates of America and robust import demand from China, which respectively boosted Australian and Brazilian export quotations. Ovine prices also rose, pig meat prices remained broadly stable, while poultry meat quotations declined amid ample exportable suppliesfromBrazil.

The FAO Dairy Price Index

declinedby1.3percentfromJuly, withbutter,cheeseandwholemilk powder quotations down amid subduedimportdemandfromkey Asian markets. The FAO Sugar Price Index rose slightly, by 0.2 percent from July after five consecutive monthly declines, drivenprimarilybyconcernsover sugarcaneproductionandyieldsin Brazil, as well as stronger global import demand Prospects for largercropsinIndiaandThailand containedthepriceincrease.

FAOalsoreleasedonFridayits new forecast for global cereal productionin2025,nowpeggedat 2 961 million tonnes – a new recordhighand3.5percentabove last year’s level. The new Cereal Supply and Demand Brief attributed the upward revisions to significant increases in the maize outputforecastsforBrazilandthe UnitedStatesofAmerica.

Global production of coarse grains, which includes maize, is now expected to reach 1 601 milliontonnes,a5.9increasefrom 2024, including a notable rise in sorghumoutput.

Meanwhile, FAO trimmed its forecastforworldwheatoutputto 804.9 million tonnes, still up around 0.8 percent from last year The new forecast includes weather-driven lower yield prospects in China and higher yields in the European Union. Worldriceproduction,ontheother hand, is expected to increase by 1.0 percent to a record high of 555 5 million tonnes, with expansionsinBangladesh,Brazil, China, India, and most notably Indonesia expected to more than offset anticipated declines in Madagascar, Nepal, the United StatesofAmericaandThailand.

Worldcerealtotalutilizationin 2025/26isnowforecasttoriseto2 922milliontonnes,up1.6percent fromthepreviousyear,ledinpart by expected increased uses of maize and wheat for animal and aquaculturefeed.

Global cereal stocks are forecast to expand by 3.7 percent by the end of 2026 to reach a record high of 898 7 million tonnes Based on the new forecasts,theglobalcerealstocks-

to-useratioin2025/26isexpected to reach 30.6 percent, nearly one percentage point higher than the previous season, confirming a comfortable supply outlook globally

FAO’s new forecasts also include a 1 4 percent annual increase in international cereal trade, now predicted to reach 493.4 million tonnes. The growth is supported by expectations of abundant exportable supplies of maize, strong demand for wheat from China, Pakistan, Syrian ArabicRepublicandTürkiye,and upwardlyrevisedimportforecasts forriceforBangladesh,Ghanaand Guinea-Bissau.

The Agricultural Market Information System (AMIS), hosted by FAO, also published its monthly Market Monitor on Friday In addition to the regular market updates, the report noted the climbing prices of nitrogen fertilizers and warned that fertilizers are becoming less affordablecomparedtocropprices in many regions, which could impactapplicationrates.

U.S.-sanctioned businessman wanted for attempted murder of ‘Lola Doll’

As investigations continueintothe shooting of Lolita Callender better known as ‘Lola Doll’ on Saturday police have issued a wanted bulletin for Paul DabyJr betterknownbyhis alias‘Randell’.

Back in June, Daby was

among six persons sanctioned by United States Department of the Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) for alleged drug trafficking. Now he is wantedforattemptedmurder ofthelocalartisteandsocial media personality Days priortotheshootingof‘Lola Doll’ at East Ruimveldt home, she had claimed in a Facebook live that there mightbeahitoutforher She even suggested a motive claiming that it might be connectedtoabackandforth (buse-out) she had with someone’sgirlfriend.

Police said early Sunday morning that a suspect is in custody assisting with investigations Stopping short from identifying the suspect, police stated in a press release, “Relative to the shooting of Lolita Callender aka ‘Lola Doll’, last night (Saturday), police have arrested one person

who is assisting with the investigation.

Reports on Saturday werethatCallenderwasshot severaltimeswhilesittingin her car, in front of her East Ruimveldthome.Policehad identified the shooter as a lone gunman on a motorcycleandreportedthat the shooting took place around 23:35hrs. Ranks at the time were scanning CCTVcamerasinthearea.A CCTV footage has since surfaced of the shooting.

Based on the footage seen, the shooter rode past ‘Lola Doll’s’carwhichwasparked infrontofherhomewiththe lightson.Heparkedthebike a short distance away and

walked up to the front passenger’s side of the car whereheopenedfireonher Thesuspectthentrottedback towherethemotorcyclewas, starteditandrodeoff.

Following the shooting, ‘Lola’ was rushed to the GeorgetownPublicHospital Corporation (GPHC) for emergency medical attention. Police said she was shot to her neck, face, handsandleg.Uptonoonon Sunday, she was still in a critical condition. There are claims however, that her conditionhasgottenbetter

Back in June when OFAC updated its Specially Designated Nationals and BlockedPersons(SDN)list, it named Daby along with thirty-seven-year-old Senior Superintendent, Himnauth Sawh; Mark Cromwell, 43, known as ‘Demon’ and ‘Diamond’ of Lot 40 Vigilance, East Coast Demerara, and Lot 10 Buxton,E.C.D;and50-yearold Randolph Duncan for drugtrafficking.

Additionally, two Colombian nationals, Manuel Salazar Gutierrez, also known as ‘Manguera’ and ‘Orejon’ and Yeison AndresSanchezVallejo,also known as ‘Blacks’ and

‘Andreas’, were listed as operatingindrugtrafficking through Guyana OFAC stated that for decades, Guyana has been a transhipment point for the movement of drugs from SouthAmericatotheUnited States and Europe. “Drug traffickers exploit the rivers and jungles of South America by transiting large quantities of cocaine, from Colombia and Venezuela, through the waters of Guyana and Suriname,” it was stated. OFAC outlined that Guyana’s proximity to the Caribbean, as well as reportedcorruptionalongits ports and borders, allows maritime vessels, also knownasnarco-submarines, to transit through its waters undetected.

It was stated that traffickers utilise these vessels to smuggle cocaine fromtheportsofGuyanaand Suriname, across the Atlantic, to the United States, Europe, and the Caribbean. OFAC said, too, that traffickers also coordinate the importation of cocaine loads from Colombia and Venezuela to Guyana via small aircraft, utilising illegal airstrips in Guyanaaslandingspots.

“Cocaine has been d

located on airstrips and in jungle territory, with Guyana’s Barima-Waini region as a prominent location. Cocaine is then flown, via aircraft, to the United States, Europe, and theCaribbean,”itwasstated.

FollowingaUS$188million drug bust onAugust 31, this publicationhadreportedthat a senior police officer was allegedlyconnectedwiththe cocaine bust at Matthews

Ridge, Region One. A Joint Services team, led by the CANU, on Saturday unearthedapproximately4.4 tons (4,400 kilos) of suspected cocaine, which has a current street value of US$188million,atanearby illegal airstrip at Matthew’s Ridge.

Neatly stashed, the cocaine was found buried in four hand-dug pits, each averaging five to six feet deep, and covered with tarpaulins, wood, and bushes.

UK police arrest almost 900 protesters at pro-Palestine Action rally

(AL-JAZEERA)Authorities in London have arrested nearly 900 people duringaprotestinsupportof the banned group Palestine Action,policesay

The new tally, announced onSunday,highlightsthestrict approach that police have t a k e n a g a i n s t t h e demonstrators,whoorganisers insistedwerenonviolent

The Metropolitan Police saidtheyarrested890people on Saturday, including 857 on suspicion of showing support for a proscribed group. Thirty-three others were detained for allegedly assaulting officers and other publicorderoffences.

Defend Our Juries, the campaigngroupthatorganised Saturday’s protest, rejected police claims that the demonstratorswereviolent

“Amongthe857arrestees were vicars and priests, war veterans and descendants of Holocaust survivors, retired teachers and healthcare

Square in London on September 6, 2025 [Martin Pope/Getty Images]

workers,” the group said in a statement.Itaccusedthepolice ofmaking“manyfalseclaims and attempts to smear the protesters” to justify arresting peace demonstrators with signs that read: “I oppose genocide – I support Palestine Action.” “While theMethasfailedtoprovide any evidence backing up

their claims, video footage clearly shows the Met violently arresting people, wielding their batons and pushing people to the ground,” Defend Our Juries said.

“We’re nonviolent, how about you?” The Press Association news agency reported that police drew

batons during clashes with protesters Officers forced their way through the crowd while carrying arrested demonstrators and were seen in shouting confrontations withdemonstrators

Water and plastic bottles were thrown at police, the agency said, while several protesters fell in a crush One

man was photographed with bloodstreamingdownhisface afterbeingarrested

Deputy Assistant Police Commissioner Claire Smart said officers had faced “coordinated”violence

“You can express your support for a cause without committing an offence under the Terrorism Act or descending into violence and disorder,andmanythousands of people do that in London every week,” she said in a statement

Rallies were also held in BelfastandEdinburgh Police Scotland said two men, aged 67 and 82, were arrested and chargedwith“terror”offences while a third man, 63, was chargedwithahatecrime

The protests are the latest in a wave of demonstrations against the UK government’s decisiontoproscribePalestine Action under the Terrorism Act2000

The group, which has targeted arms factories and

other sites linked to weapons exports to Israel, was banned after it claimed responsibility for spraying two Voyager refuellingandtransportplanes at a military base with red paint

Being a member or expressing support for Palestine Action is now a criminal offence punishable byupto14yearsinprison.

In July, United Nations human rights experts raised concerns about what they called the “unjustified labelling of a political protest movement as terrorist”, arguing that “acts of protest that damage property, but are not intended to kill or injure people,shouldnotbetreated asterrorism”.

Meanwhile, the Home Office is appealing a High Court ruling allowing PalestineAction’scofounder Huda Ammori to pursue a legal challenge against the ban.

WESTINDIESALL-TIMEMEN’STESTTEAM...

Frompage20 isacompellingcandidate. 65Tests, 2577runs,Avg.28.31. 3x100,14 x 50.Total 367 catches and 41 stumpingsinTestsand147ODI’s.

T&T’s Deryck Murray’s Test career started in WI’s tour to UK 1963, as 2nd wicket-keeper to Barbados’DavidAllan.

Playing all five Tests, after Allan had been injured beforeTest No.1,DeryckMurraygarnered24 dismissals,courtesyofbowlersSir Wes Hall, Sir Charlie Griffith, Sir FrankWorrell,LanceGibbsandSir Gary Sobers. Faster bowlers are easier to keep to than to spinners,

andwithvaryingspinnersSirGary and Lance Gibbs playing in many ofhiscareerTests,DeryckMurray had to maintainhigh focus His batting was average: 62 Tests, 1993 runs, avg. 22.90, with 218 catches,ninestumpings.

Efficientmorethanspectacular, Deryck Murray became legendary when, in company of LI’s fast bowlerSirAndyRoberts,snatched victory from the very jaws of defeat,vPakistan;ICCCWC1975; which WI had to win to progress.That success allowed WI to later lift ICC CWC 1975’s winners’ trophy, a big boost to

Monday September 08, 2025

ARIES

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

TAURUS

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.

GEMINIS

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

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

LEO

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

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.

DeryckMurray’scandidacyherein. JeffreyDujon’sflyingacrobatic catches behind the stumps, in that big arc between short fine leg and wide 1st slip,standing well back, had been spectacular and picturesque, as he mostly had very fast bowlers operating for his 81 Tests.

What brings serious consideration is that Jeff Dujon made 3322 runs, avg. 31.94, 5 x 100sand16x50s. 450catchesand 26 stumpings in 81 Tests and 169 ODIs.

Batting at No. 7 in that productiveWI line-up and making

many runs allow Jeffrey Dujon highcandidature.

Denesh Ramdin was also competent behind the stumps withoutbeingspectacular Hewas a very good wicket-keeper but occasionallysubjectofworryabout hisfierytemperament.

74Tests,139ODIs. 2898Test runs,avg.25.87,4x100s,15x50s.

Ramdin’s batting was quite productive,andneededtobe,most times under pressure, when he playedTestsforWI.

THEELITEEIGHT–WHICHONEISIT?

Denesh Ramdin, late Sir Clyde

Walcott, Jeffrey Dujon, Deryck Murray, Jackie Hendricks, Ridley Jacobs, Rohan Kanhai and late Franz Allexander; “The Elite Eight”;areyourfinalchoices.

Which one would you select, had you been the soleWI selector, asbestWITestwicket-keeperever, a player for all times and purposes andpressures,giventheparameters issued? All have their plusses and minuses.

Also,thisisquitesubjective,so anyofthemcouldprobablyfitinto an ALL WI TEST TEAM for specific purposes at varying times. Enjoy Cheers.

Expand your mind to its furthest reaches today, Libra.

here's an incredible opportunity opening up for you in which you can make great strides in a creative realm.Followthemusic.

SCORPIO

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.

SAGITTARIUS

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

CAPRICORN

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

Mix your reality with a bit of fantasytoday,Aquarius.Allow your feet to come off the ground for a little while. Give yourselfarest.Takesometime to meditate and clear your mindofyourdailyworries.

PISCES

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.

“WESTINDIESALL-TIMEMEN’STESTTEAM –AWICKET-KEEPERPLEASE!”

BY: Colin Croft –

F o r m e r G u y a n a , Lancashire CCC & West IndiesCricketer

Selecting just one wicket-keeper for MY All WestIndiesTestXI,withsix players already included –Joel Garner, Sir Curty Ambrose, late Malcolm Marshall, Sir Wes Hall, Lancelot Gibbs, Sir Gary Sobers - is probably the hardest, most contentious decision ever, even with great battersalso vying for thoselastfourpositions. The batsmen would be relativelyeasier

Remember criteria for selection for MY ALL WI TEST TEAM - Impact, longevity, productivity, success, dominance, consistency, effectiveness andvaluetoteams.

ALLWESTINDIES TESTWICKETKEEPERS

In no order or merit, the following had been Test wicket-keepers forWI since 1928, when WI started playingTests. Somenamed might even have been forgottenaltogetheralready (1) Karl Nunes

(Jamaica), (2) Errol Hunte (Trinidad & Tobago), (3) Desmond Lewis (Jamaica), (4) Cyril Christiani (Guyana), (5) Derrick Sealey(Barbados),(6)Franz “Jerry”Alexander(Jamaica), (7) Simpson Guillen (Trinidad & Tobago / WI & Canterbury/NZ),(8)Junior Murray (Grenada / Windward Islands), (9) Ivan Barrow(Jamaica). (10) David Williams (Trinidad & Tobago), (11) Jeffrey Dujon (Jamaica), (12) Michael Findlay (St. Vincent &The Grenadines / Windward Islands), (13)Ridley Jacobs (Antigua & Barbuda / Leeward

Islands), (14) Jackie Hendricks (Jamaica), (15) Ivor Mendonca (Guyana), (16) David Murray (Barbados), (17) David Allan (Barbados), (18) Deryck Murray (Trinidad & Tobago). (19) Courtney Brown (Barbados), (20) Rohan Kanhai (Guyana), (21)

Clairmonte DePeiaza (Barbados),(22)CliffordMc Watt (Guyana), (23) (Sir) Clyde Walcott (Barbados), (24) Alfie Binns (Jamaica),

(25) Ralph Legall (Barbados); (26) Thelston Payne (Barbados), (27) Carlton Baugh (Jamaica), (28) Denesh Ramdin (Trinidad & Tobago), (29) ChadwickWalton(Jamaica). (30) Shane Dowrich (Barbados), (31) Shai Hope (Barbados), (32) Jamar Hamilton (Antigua & Barbuda / Leeward Islands),(33) Joshua Da Silva (Trinidad & Tobago), (34)TevinImlach(Guyana).

Wow! There are some quite illustrious cricketers namedabove,butfewwould have wagered that so many wicket-keepers had actually played Tests for WI in less thaneven100years!

There are also strange anomalies in thehistories of some of those WI wicketkeepers.

Late Jamaican Desmond Lewis played only three Tests;vIndia1971;asopener / ‘keeper, making 259 runs, avg 86 33 Yet, very strangely,he was dropped.

That phenomenon of ‘keepers getting many runs did not start with India’s M.S. Dhoni or Australia’s AdamGilchrist!

Jamaican Karl Nunes, first ever WI Test wicketkeeper,andfirsteverWITest captain,in 1928, played in only four Tests, but kept wicketsinonlythree.

G u y a n a ’s C y r i l Christiani, whose brother Robert also played 22 Testsasabatter,wasonly20 when he was selected in his 1stof four Tests in 1934-35. From all accounts from oldsters, Cyril was an excellent ‘keeper Unfortunately, infected by malaria, he died in 1938, aged 24. That “excellent” moniker apparently could also have been extended to another Guyanese ‘keeper, Clifford Mc Watt. He too h a d a v e r y s h o r t career;discarded after only sixTests.

Jamaica’sAlfie Binns –all 1960s primary school ‘keepers called themselves “Binns” –was apparently also very good behind the stumps Hetoo had a very short career; only five Tests.

Late Barbadian Sir Clyde Walcott, of famous “Three W’s”, played 44 Tests but kept wickets in only his first 15, including to 1950’s legends Sonny Ramadhin and Alfred ValentinevEngland.

Sir Clyde was a very tall, big man, and like another,later,relativelytall ‘keeper, Jamaican Jackie Hendricks, Sir Clyde had back problems from his wicket-keepingstints

Guyana’sRohanKanhai; 79 Tests, 6227 runs, excellent avg 47 53;only keptwicketsinhisfirstthree Tests His batting was brilliant,butonlythreeTests as‘keeper?Isthatenough?

Late Barbadian David Murrayeffectedthequickest stumping that I have ever seen in Test cricket;v Pakistan, Test No. 2 of 4, Faisalabad,December 1980. WIwonby156runs.

Rangy Nanan, late T&T and WI off-spinner; debut and onlyTest;bowled to late Pakistani left-hander Wasim Raja. Theball,onhittingthe pitch, disappeared in a massivepuffofdust.

Wasim drove at the ball, missed it, overbalancing slightly The late David Murray somehow saw that ball though the heavy sandy mist, collected it and removedthebailsinonevery sharp movement, before

Wasim could regain his ground.A really stupendous stumping!

The late Rangy Nanan thenliftedlateDavidMurray bodily,very high into the air – late David Murray was onlyabout120pounds/54.5 kilograms–incelebrationof his1stTestwicket.

Unfortunately, late David Murray, quite possiblyWI’sbesteverpure wicket-keeper,skill-wise, playedonly19Tests.

OTHERWITEST WICKET-KEEPING

SHORT-LISTED CANDIDATES

For WI wicket-keepers who played primarily for that position, with useful runs as bonuses, not many had achieved that threshold of at least 20 Tests to make MYALLWITESTTEAM.

Late Jamaican, former captain Franz “Jerry” Alexander (25 Tests), Trinidad&Tobago’sDeryck Murray(62Tests),Jamaican Jackie Hendricks (20Tests), Jamaica’s Jeff Dujon (81 Tests), Grenada’s & WI’s Junior Murray (33 Tests),

Barbados’CourtneyBrowne (20 Tests), Antigua & Barbuda’s & LI’s Ridley Jacobs (64 Tests), Jamaican Carlton Baugh (21 Tests), Trinidad&Tobago’sDenesh Ramdin (74 Tests) and Barbados’ Shane Dowrich (35Tests)allqualify Jamaica’sJackie Hendricks had been noted by many as perhaps the best glovemanin that lot, but his batting returns do not bode wellfor my team; 20 Tests, only 447 runs, avg 18 62 Barbados’ Courtney Browne;Testdebut;gained infamy when he dropped Australia’s captain Steve Waugh, WI v AUS, Sabina Park, 4th Test, April 1995, off LI’s Kenny Benjamin’s bowling.

Waugh was then on 42. He made 200 and laid the foundation for Australia to beatWIinthatTest;andthat series; thus wresting unofficial ICC World Test Championship from West Indies. LI’s Ridley Jacobs, unheraldedandunderrated, (Continuedonpage19)

ByCliftonRoss

A classy, yet aggressive

half-century from

Mohammed Rizwan coupledwithabrilliantfinal over from fast-bowler NaseemShah,setupamuchneeded 5-run win for the St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots last night;astheydisposedofthe hometeamGuyanaAmazon Warriorsintheirbackyardof the Guyana National Stadium,Providence.

Achampion knock from Pakistan’s Rizwan, who carried the Patriots on his backfromstarttoendwitha busy85from62ballshelped set the tone for the Patriots’ 149-6in20overs.

The former number one ranked international T20 batsman, punched 8 fours and a trifecta of sixes, thus contributing to the bulk of thePatriotsruns.

OnlySouthAfricanRilee Roussow (14) and allrounder Navin Bidaisee (22*)lookedinthemoodfor someaction,asnoneoftheir otherhighly-talentedbatting options managed to reach doubledigits.

Warriors left-arm spinners, Gudakesh Motie whowasexpensivegoingfor 44 runs despite bagging a pairandHassanKhan(2-21) didmostoftheheavylifting, with aid coming in the form of pacer Romario Shepherd (1-17).

Needing an even 150 to win their second match at home, theAmazon Warriors wererestrictedto144-8in20 overs.

RepublicBankCaribbeanPremierLeague… Rizwan(85)/Shahclassyfinalover, helpscript5-runwinoverWarriors

he continued to look for the maximum number of runs despite a number of setbacks, including that of South African Rilee Roussow (14), who got into doublefiguresbeforefalling

victimtoMotie.

The Pakistani wicketkeeper/batsman played a brave counter-attacking role, shrugging off the losses as he upped his ante as he reached 50 off 39

balls; breathing some fresh lifeintotheinningswhichat one point was on a sluggish trajectory

All-rounder Bidaisee provided some pressure relief as he kept the runs

Shai Hope (31), Ben McDermott(21)andMooen Ali (19) toiled against some spirited bowling by the Patriots.

Guyanese-born spinner Ashmead Nedd (1-27), WaqarSalamkheil(2-28)did the damage but it was the class of pacer Shah who endedwith2-29,includinga champion last over to help seal an emphatic first time winagainsttheWarriors.

The chase was set up by a responsible opening start from McDermott, which saw them lose just one wicket by the end of thefirstpower-play

Shortly after, local boy Nedd had McDermott out

stumped as Ali and Shimron Hetmyer (9) joined their teammate backinthepavilion

Hope joined them shortly after he was bowled by leg-spinner Bidaisee while Khan (11)

was out caught and bowledbyDrakes

With 50 odd required from the final six overs, the hero of the last game Dwaine Pretorius (10) fell while Keemo Paul (9), Shepherd (8) and Quentin Sampson (14*) couldn’t gettheirteamovertherope.

Starting the evening’s proceedings off, Patriots innings got off to a mixed note as they lost Andre Fletcher (4), Kyle Mayers (4) and Leniko Boucher (1) allinsidethepower-play

Rizwan showed his international experience as

flowingwithafourandasix to his credit, sharing a 61runstandwithRizwan,who unfortunatelyfoundhimself run out in the final over of the innings which ended withadotball

Massy Women’s Caribbean Premier League… RoyalsBeginTitleDefencewithbigwinoverWarriors

The second game of the Massy Women’s Caribbean Premier League (WCPL) saw Barbados Royals

women beat Guyana Amazon Warriors by 7 wickets with four balls remaining.

The match was curtailed byafloodlightfailurewhich sawDLScomeintouse.The Warriors won the toss and elected to bat first in sunny conditionsatProvidence.

Shemaine Campbell’s sideputtingonanimpressive display – posting 154/4 in their twenty overs with R

G

starringfortheWarriorswith 61 off 57 balls to score her maidenWCPLfiftyandpost the first half century by any player in this year’s competition.

TheRoyalssetaboutthe target with gusto; their top o r d e r o f C h a m a r i Athapanthtu (29 off 24)

QianaJoseph(22off22)and Georgia Redmayne (33 off 29) gave them a solid foundation on which to haul in the adjusted target of 137 from18overs.

With Royals on 87-3 at the start of the thirteenth over after Courtney Webb

wasbowledbyLauraHarris for just six runs, the match was evenly poised heading intothefinalstages.

Enter Royals skipper

Chinelle Henry who blitzed 37off19ballswithtwofours and four sixes to ace the chase for her side. The win

sees the Royals leapfrog the Warriors to the top of the table on NRR and with a gameinhand.

It’s early days in the competition but the sides in this year’s WCPL look evenlymatchedandtoughto splitsofar

GBFCongratulates PresidentAlionsecondterm

The Guyana Basketball Federation (GBF) has extended heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, on securing a second term as the Head of State.

Inhismessageonbehalf of the Federation, GBF president Michael Singh lauded President Ali’s l e a d e r s h i p a s “transcending,” particularly in the area of sport, which has seen unprecedented investment and growth over thelastfiveyears.

Sinceassumingofficein 2020, President Ali and his administration have overseen a record G$21.61 billion allocation toward sports development; an unmatched level of investment in Guyana’s history

TheMinistryofCulture, Youth and Sport’s budget, Singh noted, has grown from$805.3millionin2020 to a record $8 billion in 2025, underscoring the government’s commitment tobuildingastrongsporting foundation.

“Such investment r e f l e c t s a d e e p understanding of sport’s p o w e r t o u n i f y communities, empower youth,andelevateGuyana’s international presence,” Singhsaid.

The GBF president added, “under President Ali’sguidance,sporthasnot only received its rightful place on the national agenda, but it has also become a vehicle for transformation and nationbuilding.”

The GBF, Singh highlighted, has been a direct beneficiary of this vision, pointing to the

successfullaunchoftheOne Guyana Premier Basketball League, fully funded by the Government of Guyana, as well as significant support fortheFederation’snational teamprogrammes.

Looking ahead, Singh said the Federation is eager to continue working alongside President Ali and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport as Guyana prepares to host the Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC) Women’sChampionship.

The proposed ten-team tournament is scheduled for November9–17attheCliff Anderson Sports Hall, marking the long-awaited return of the prestigious event to Guyana after decades.

“The CBC Women’s Championship will be a historic moment for our c o u n t r y , ” S i n g h emphasized “We are looking forward to once again partnering with President Ali’s government toexecuteatournamentthat will showcase not only our talent but also Guyana’s capacity to host world-class events.”

Singh reaffirmed the GBF’s readiness to support President Ali’s overarching vision for sport, noting that the government’s long-term strategy could position Guyanaasaregionalhubfor sportstourism.

“TheGBFstandsfirmly with President Ali as he begins his second term,” Singh concluded “We remain committed to working hand-in-hand with his administration to ensure that basketball, and sport as awhole,continuestoplayits role in shaping a stronger, moreunifiedGuyana.”

Fruta Conquerors Football Club’s Women pushed their points tally to sevenonFridaynightwitha comfortable victory over Den Amstel’s women when

the Guyana Football

Federation’s (GFF) Women’s Division One Leaguecontinued.

Coming off of a draw alongside Western Tigers’ women in their last outing, FrutaConquerorswerekeen on making the most of their third game in the league, sending5goalspasttheDen Amstel goal keeper Sabrina Peters.

Makeisha Dash wasted no time in handing Fruta Conquerors the lead,

capitalizing on a mistake from the opponent’s goal keeper to tap the ball in behind Peters for their first goalinthe6thminute.

Akilia Bluhcer was the next to find the back of the net, doing so in the 9th minute.

Bluhcer found favour againinthe25thminuteand then, with an assist from Dellana Small, Bluhcer was abletocompleteherhattrick inthe47thminute.

Mariah Campbell made the most of her second half substitution, slipping one past the Den Amstel keeper inthe55thminute.

On the other hand, Den Amstel had quite a few

Women’s Division One League… Fruta Conquerors stamp authority with latest win

Part of the action in the latest showdown of the Women’s Division League

opportunities, especially in second segment but none were quite good enough to savetheWestsideoutfit.

The Women’s Divison One League will continue thisFriday,September12at thesamevenue.

At 18:00hrs, Ann’s Grove United will take on Rivers View FC while at 19:30hrs Monedderlust FC takesonMainstayGoldstars FC.

The teams in the

Women’s Division One League are competing for a $1M grand prize, after which they will participate in a playoff competition, which will offer a $300,000 firstprize.

DoS to lead a team for IGG meetings

A team of local sport administratorsarescheduled to visit Suriname later this month for an important review meeting on the 2024 InterGuianaGames(IGG).

Guyana’s team will be led by Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle The meeting, scheduled to take place in Paramaribo on September 19, will bring together officials from the three participating countries to assess the successes and lessonsoflastyear’sevent.

Mr Ninvalle noted that the upcoming discussions will play a key role in

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

c o o r d i n a t i o n a n d strengthening cooperation among the participating nations. “The Inter Guiana Games is more than just a

sporting event it is an opportunity to deepen cultural ties, foster youth development, and showcase the talents of our young athletes Our focus in Suriname will be on buildingonthegainsof2024 while setting the stage for a successful hosting in December,”hesaid. In addition to reviewing

the 2024 Games that was held in French Guiana, the meeting will also serve as a platform to provide updates andfinalizepreparationsfor the 2025 Inter Guiana Games,whichwillbehosted inGuyanafromDecember5 to7,2025.

T h e G u y a n e s e delegation is expected to comprise senior officials from the National Sports Commission who will work closely with their Surinamese and French Guianesecounterparts.

TheInterGuianaGames is a multi-sport event

involving Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana, aimed at promoting friendship, cooperation, and regional integration through sport.

Royals Begin Title Defence with big win over Warriors win